Editorial
Nigeria At 52, Greater Future In Sight
On October 1st, 1960, exactly 52 years ago, Nigeria became
an independent nation-state after nearly a century of indirect and direct
British Colonial rule. We recall with uncommon pride and nostalgia that
historic moment when, the union Jack was lowered for a sovereign Nigeria’s
Green white Green national flag.
We salute the resolve, doggedness and resilience of the
founding fathers in the invaluable nationalistic quest for self-rule and congratulate
the government and people of Nigeria for defending the unity of the country in
the past 52 years.
Indeed, for a nation of more than 155,215,573 people, by
2011 estimates, more than eight major ethnic groups and over 150 others and
about 200 different languages, diverse cultures, multiplicity of religions, divergent
hopes and fears, that Nigeria still remains one indivisible political,
socio-economic and geographical entity is worth celebrating.
As we celebrate, however, it becomes even more instructive
to venture a deliberate introspection of the past, if for nothing else, to
appraise how far and well the journey of nationhood to socio-economic
independence has been. Unfortunately, such self-evaluation, without doubt,
presents a mixed bag of wasted resources, failed leadership, poor fiscal
planning, infrastructural decay, increasing insecurity, political intolerance,
ethno-religious extremism and indeed abject poverty.
From a vibrant agro-based economy in pre-independence
Nigeria, the country is today a molothic economy, dependent primarily on oil,
which earnings do not reflect the infrastructural decay, lack of employment,
fall in educational standards, poor public health institutions, death-traps
called Federal roads and indeed successive maladministration.
Since, according to the legendary English Philosopher John
Stuart Mill (1806-73) “the worth of a state, in the long run, is the worth of
the individuals composing it,” it becomes even more imperative to measure our
52 years of nationhood by the quality of life of the ordinary Nigerian to whom
nationhood ought to mean more than mere political independence. In this regard,
that more than 70 per cent of the population still live below the poverty line
cannot excite celebration of any kind.
However, poverty cannot also be a justification for the orgy
of terror-based insurgency in parts of the North, neither should it be excuse
for the rise in criminal activities across the nation, all of which tend to
raise question about the people’s readiness to defend the nation’s unity.
Unfortunately, the scenario is being exploited by selfish
politicians to preach division instead of unity, fear instead of hope and
insurgency rather than tolerance. These, inadvertently tend to give credence to
the prediction that Nigeria could breakup by 2015, using the next electoral
process as a necessary platform to affirm the dooms day.
The Tide believes in the indivisibility, unity and mutual
co-existence of the various peoples of Nigeria, just as we believe in the
possibility of the transformation of the country, in spite of the enormous
challenges we face as a nation. We note that what Nigeria is today suffering is
accumulated dividends of bad governance, unbridled corruption, planlessness on
the part of successive administrations, and deliberate disobedience of the
constitution and other laws of the land, all of which cannot be wished away
over night.
What is required therefore, is for the leadership to remain
focused, dedicated and patriotic in attempts to address, in a lasting manner,
the myriad of national problems that directly touch the ordinary Nigerian. The
citizenry on their part must develop a positive integer in their expectations
of government and not be fooled by the growing blackmail that any single
administration can, with a magic wand, wave away all their worries.
This is why The Tide thinks that attempt by sections of the
country to encumber the President Jonathan administration with the political
pressure to right all wrongs at a single go, smarks of avoidable incitement of
the citizenry against the administration. The right way forward, is not to
politicize every national concern for the sole purpose of scoring cheap
political points.
We commend the wisdom and rare display of maturity thusfar
demonstrated by President Jonathan in extricating himself from the debate over
his political future in 2015 and his commitment to putting the nation together
in spite of the unprecedented political, security and religious challenges.
The Tide is pleased with the modest success being made in
national governance especially in summoning the necessary political will to
probe the oil subsidy regime, approval of national minimum wage for the civil
servant, improved remuneration for university teachers, special pay for doctors
and health sector workers, a conducive political atmosphere for free speech,
implementation of the 35 per cent affirmative action for women integration, and
reforms in the power sector resulting in the improvement in electricity
generation into the national grid from 2,200 MW in 2010 to 4,400mw this year,
and which accounts for the relatively stable electricity supply.
It is however sad that Nigeria’s power sector still cannot
benefit sufficiently, from the massive interventionist efforts being made by
variousstates of the federation in the area of power generation on account of
constitutional inhibitions, grounded on the unitary approach to addressing
national development.
To put Nigeria on the path of unimpeded development
therefore, the National Assembly and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians must
work towards a comprehensive review of the nation’s constitution. And quickly
too.
Such reviews would be meaningless if the various sections of
the country fail to appreciate the propriety of peaceful co-existence and agree
to respect and understand that our ephemeral differences are nothing compared
to the lot that unites us as a people and resolve to live in peace and unity in
spite of our diversity. The near frequent appeal to sectionalism, tribalism,
religion, ethnicism and class often actuated by selfish political passion and consideration can only seek to
divide us, not unite us!
This is where the National Assembly must rise up to the
challenge of not only making proactive laws, but also investing meaningfully in
regular sensitisation and education of their constituents on the merits of
Nigerian unity. To achieve that, the legislature must partner with the
executive and indeed judiciary to prevent the near frequent heating-up of the
polity by being statesmanly in exercise of their oversight functions on other
arms of government.
Rather than become a ready tool to the political opposition
to whom their seems to be no single common ground for national cohesion, the
National Assembly would do well to consider itself as an ample part of
governance at the highest level, and face, with a sense of patriotism and
statesmanship the business of making vital laws needed to guarantee the growth
and speedy development of the country.
One such is the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) which
protracted delay can no longer be supported, just as the avoidable bickerings
over comprehensive review of the constitution, not just a distraction but a
costly mistake that does none any good.
As we celebrate this year’s independence anniversary,
therefore, government, the legislature, the judiciary, states and local
governments and indeed all well-meaning stakeholders of the Nigerian project,
must resolve to work in synergy towards sourcing solutions to the nation’s
challenges and not blame it all on the serving president and his team.
The Tide believes that every people deserves the leadership
they get and must work together for common good and a better future. Most
importantly, we most understand that nearly all developed nations of today,
confronted similar, if not more difficult challenges before attaining the now
enviable noble heights. With love for country, hardwork and prayers, The Tide
sees a brighter and greater Nigeria that all will be proud of. This should be
our target not despair.
Last Friday, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) destroyed fake, counterfeit and substandard drugs worth over N1 trillion in Awka, the Anambra State capital. Recall that for one month, NAFDAC shut the Onitsha Drug Market, restricting shop owners from coming to the market, barricading it with military personnel, while officials broke into and ransacked shops in search of fake drugs.
NAFDAC’s Zonal Director for South-East, Dr. Martin Iluyomade, revealed some of the drugs destroyed to include Analgin, Tramadol, and various paediatric pharmaceuticals, which had been stored in prohibited areas or were banned by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Iluyomade said the closure and raids of the markets where the drugs were confiscated was in response to public complaints regarding the prevalence of fake, substandard and counterfeit drugs in the South-East.
He said: “Many of these drugs are banned, such as Analgin and certain paediatric medications, and they were stored in places that violate WHO regulations. It is our responsibility to ensure that these products are safe and fit for human consumption. These drugs were transported in a 140-foot truck, valued at over N1trillion, and were supposed to be stored at specific temperatures. However, they were kept in markets that do not meet the required standards.
“The volume of drugs found in these two markets could destabilise the country, and many of these are narcotic drugs associated with criminal activities. People who consume these drugs are not only harming themselves but also using them to commit crimes, which contributes to the growing insecurity in our country.”
Unfortunately, that is the chilling reality of counterfeit drugs, and it is a problem NAFDAC is relentlessly fighting. This dramatic action underscores the monumental scale of the problem and the unwavering commitment of NAFDAC to protect public health. The massive destruction highlights the pervasive nature of the counterfeit drug trade and the resources NAFDAC dedicates to combatting it.
Counterfeit drugs are dangerous, even deadly. They can contain the wrong dosage, the wrong active ingredients, or even harmful substances. Imagine taking a pill you believe will cure your illness, only to find it contains something entirely different – something that could worsen human condition or even kill. That is the terrifying reality of the counterfeit drug market.
The insidious world of counterfeit medications poses a grave threat, as these fake drugs often harbour toxic fillers or entirely different, untested chemicals. The consumption of such substances can trigger a cascade of adverse reactions, varying from minor allergic responses to catastrophic organ failure, leaving vulnerable individuals severely harmed. In this critical battle for public health, NAFDAC stands as our frontline defender.
Through tireless monitoring, rigorous inspections, and decisive action against those who peddle these dangerous fakes, NAFDAC acts as a vital gatekeeper, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the medications we depend on. Supporting NAFDAC’s mission is paramount, as it directly equates to safeguarding the lives and well-being of our Nigerians by preventing the proliferation of these harmful and potentially lethal counterfeit medications.
Given the breadth and criticality of NAFDAC’s mandate – regulating everything from food and drugs to cosmetics and medical devices – it is imperative that the Federal Government bolsters the agency’s resources and capabilities. This monumental task, encompassing the entire lifecycle of regulated products from importation to usage, demands substantial investment in infrastructure, advanced technological tools, and a highly skilled workforce.
Under-resourcing NAFDAC risks compromising its ability to effectively monitor and enforce regulations, potentially leading to substandard or counterfeit products entering the market, with devastating consequences for public health and safety. Therefore, increased funding, enhanced training programmes, and optimised operational systems are essential to fortify the agency’s effectiveness and ensure it can continue to protect the Nigerian populace.
No doubt, NAFDAC currently faces numerous hurdles in fulfilling its mandate. These challenges range from inadequate funding and outdated equipment to a lack of personnel and poor training. Insufficient funding directly translates to limited capacity for effective inspection, testing, and enforcement. Imagine trying to police a vast country with only a handful of officers – the task becomes virtually impossible. This lack of resources allows substandard and even dangerous products to enter the market, posing serious risks to public health.
The Federal Government must prioritise NAFDAC’s needs and take decisive action to support, equip, and empower this vital agency. NAFDAC is a cornerstone of public health in Nigeria and its health and economic well-being depend on its support. By providing financial, technological, and human resources, the government can strengthen the organisation’s capacity to protect Nigerians and contribute to national development. Tinubu’s administration must ensure that NAFDAC had the tools it needs to succeed. The lives of millions depend on it.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s ominous forecast of severe flooding in nine states as the rainy season draws nearer serves as a reminder of the country’s vulnerability to environmental disasters. With coastal states like Lagos, Ogun, Delta, and Rivers particularly at risk, the immediate need for proactive mitigation measures cannot be overstated.
This warning demands swift and decisive action from state governments, including the activation of urgent environmental interventions and a concerted effort to encourage citizens residing in flood-prone areas to relocate preemptively. Nigeria’s history is unfortunately punctuated by the devastating impacts of floods, a recurring crisis often compounded by inadequate infrastructure, haphazard urban planning, and a frustratingly slow response to impending threats.
The devastating 2024 floods serve as a stark and traumatic reminder of the catastrophic consequences of neglecting proactive flood management. With over 300 lives lost and more than 1.2 million people impacted across 31 states, the scale of the disaster underscores the urgent need for decisive action.
The UN has allocated $5 million to Nigeria to enhance flood preparedness, aiming to strengthen early warning systems, support emergency response initiatives, and provide relief to vulnerable communities. However, the ultimate responsibility for implementing and maintaining effective flood management strategies lies with Nigerian authorities at all levels, requiring a shift from reactive responses to comprehensive preventative measures.
Nigerian governors should take urgent measures, such as alerting residents in flood-prone areas and removing illegal structures blocking waterways to offer a glimmer of hope. The pervasive complacency across some states remains deeply concerning. This reactive approach, waiting for disaster to strike before responding, has repeatedly resulted in devastating consequences and underscores a critical need for a paradigm shift in flood management plans.
Specifically, in states like Rivers which is surrounded by water, a multi-pronged approach is needed, including strengthening infrastructure, enhancing drainage systems, promoting community engagement, and implementing sustainable land-use planning, while also considering nature-based solutions and early warning systems.
The cyclical nature of flooding in the country is exacerbated by human activities. The dangerous practice of constructing buildings on natural waterways and the rampant issue of indiscriminate waste disposal into drainage systems directly contribute to the problem. These actions obstruct the natural flow of water, leading to overflows and ultimately, the widespread flooding that plagues the nation.
The government’s inaction regarding waste management and environmental upkeep is a significant contributor to the looming environmental crisis. The absence of efficient waste disposal systems, coupled with the lack of environmental projects and proper maintenance of vital drainages and waterways, breeds unsanitary conditions and ecological damage.
This negligence carries a high price, manifesting in public health risks, degraded ecosystems, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters. To reverse the trajectory, a comprehensive strategy is paramount. Importantly, regulatory bodies need to step up their enforcement efforts, ensuring strict adherence to environmental regulations and imposing meaningful penalties on those who violate them.
Such measures are vital not only to curb pollution and irresponsible practices but also to send a clear message that environmental accountability will be enforced. There is a pressing need for the government to overhaul waste management systems, ensuring efficient collection and disposal to prevent blockages in drainage channels.
To mitigate future disasters, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) are urged to launch comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate the public about environmental degradation risks and promote personal responsibility in flood prevention. This will empower citizens to adopt sustainable practices, reduce flood risks, and protect vulnerable communities.
The September floodings in Borno State, resulting in the collapse of the Alau Dam, highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability to disasters. To mitigate the impact, the government and citizens should work together to demolish structures obstructing natural waterways, dredge rivers and canals, and equip emergency response units to act swiftly in case of a flood.
Long-term strategies must focus on sustainable urban planning, the construction of dams, and continuous public education on environmental stewardship. Crucially, transparency and accountability of ecological funds are paramount to ensure that allocated resources effectively address the challenges at hand. Nigeria should draw valuable lessons from countries like Denmark and the United States, which have successfully implemented flood mitigation plans.
Increased awareness efforts have already resulted in a noticeable reduction in flood-related incidents in subsequent years, underscoring the efficacy of effective measures. State emergency agencies must collaborate, sharing resources and information to create a unified front against flooding. By embracing a culture of preparedness and environmental consciousness, Nigeria can safeguard its communities and build resilience against future natural disasters.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has exemplified a proactive and resolute approach in steadfastly advancing the agenda of his administration, even in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which officially recognised Martins Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This unwavering commitment to governance and developmental progress underscores the Governor’s dedication to fulfilling his responsibilities to the people of Rivers State, regardless of the prevailing political and legal circumstances.
In meticulously orchestrating and initiating a broad spectrum of project inaugurations in multiple locations within Rivers State, Fubara articulates his resolute determination to honour the assurances given to Rivers people. His strategic focus on delivering tangible developmental projects not only highlights his determination to ensure the continued advancement of the state but also reinforces his vision of sustaining infrastructural growth, social welfare improvements, and economic empowerment.
This proactive stance can be viewed as a strategic move to showcase his administration’s competence and dedication to the public. Through the continuation of infrastructure endeavours and social initiatives, Governor Fubara aspires to reinforce public endorsement and effectively handle the complicated political situation resulting from the Supreme Court’s decision. The commissioning events serve as concrete evidence of the government’s initiatives and achievements, highlighting its commitment to progress.
The announcement of the projects generated widespread excitement throughout the state, with residents eagerly anticipating the institution of major infrastructure developments. The completion of these projects signifies an important milestone for the administration, demonstrating its dedication to fulfilling promises and investing in the state’s future. The Governor’s emphasis on the projects’ potential to drive economic growth, improve public services, and enhance overall quality of life, reflects his administration’s focus on delivering tangible benefits to the people.
The commissioning ceremonies are highly publicised events that attract considerable public attention and participation. This underscores the importance of the projects in enhancing the well-being and infrastructure of key areas in Rivers and Bayelsa States. The projects cover a wide range of sectors including housing, firefighting and emergency response, security, healthcare, education, and judiciary welfare, reflecting a comprehensive development approach essential for community progress.
The allocation of resources across various sectors demonstrates a deliberate strategy to address urgent needs and improve residents’ quality of life. In its efforts to foster safer communities, the government focuses on enhancing security and emergency response measures. Additionally, investments in healthcare and education underline a long-term commitment to human capital growth and well-being.
Among the projects scheduled for commissioning by the state government are the Government House Staff Quarters, the State Fire Service Headquarters with firefighting vehicles, the handover of a helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force, the Borikiri Fire Service Station, and the construction and furnishing of the palace and residence of the Akpor monarch. These projects address critical infrastructure needs and highlight the government’s dedication to enhancing public services and community welfare.
Other projects include the judges’ quarters, Bori General Hospital, Okrika Grammar School, as well as the furnishing, equipping, and electrification of the Nigerian Law School, Yenagoa Campus, and the Rumuodomaya Fire Service Station along with firefighting vehicles. Each of these projects plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for residents and fostering development across key sectors in the region.
Governor Fubara’s actions speak volumes about his commitment to propelling Rivers State forward. The inauguration of diverse infrastructure projects is a tangible demonstration of his administration’s focus on progress and effective service delivery. This ardent approach extends beyond mere construction; it is a strategic investment in the future. Recall that in December last year, the Governor embarked on a schedule of projects commissioning and flag-offs to advance infrastructure and security across the state.
Through the prioritisation of key industries and allocating resources to essential sectors, the government is laying the groundwork for a more robust and prosperous Rivers State, offering its citizens enhanced opportunities and a higher quality of life. Through these initiatives, Governor Fubara is not just building roads and facilities; he is building trust, fulfilling his promises, and solidifying his leadership as a driver of sustainable development in the state.
The government is clearly committed to improving Rivers State. To say that Governor Fubara is rapidly transforming the state’s landscape with bold development initiatives is simply stating the obvious. In a short period, the Governor has turned the entire state into a vast construction site, with significant projects either underway or already completed — all in spite of the ongoing political challenges.
We join the good people of Rivers State, Nigerians, businesses, and individuals in commending and celebrating the Governor during this remarkable season of project commissioning and inauguration. The projects delivered so far reflect an extraordinary transformation, positioning the state as an attractive destination for investors. This progress stands as a testament to His Excellency’s commitment to leaving Rivers State far better than he found it.