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Editorial

That NBS’ Report On Poverty Level

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Rather than fulfil its promise of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) government officially threw 133 million Nigerians into deeper poverty. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) confirmed this last week in its latest National Multidimensional Poverty Index Report.
According to the report, 63 per cent of Nigerians are poor following a lack of access to health, education, and living standards, alongside unemployment and shocks. The report shows that three out of five Nigerians live impoverished. In 2020, NBS reported that more than 80 million Nigerians lived below the poverty line. The report added that over half of the population who are multidimensionally poor cook with dung, wood or charcoal rather than clean energy.
The latest report is in tandem with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) requirement of a basket of goods and services needed to live a non-impoverished life valued at the current prices rather than those who live on less than two dollars a day. People who do not have an income sufficient to cover that basket are deemed to be multidimensionally poor and that is currently the reality for more than 133 million Nigerians.
Findings show that the North-West has the highest number of people in poverty at 45.49 million followed by the North-East 20.47 million, North-Central at 20.19 million, South-South at 19.66 million, South-West 16.27 million and South-East at 10.85 million. On the state profile, Kano has the highest number with 10.51 million, while the least is Abia with 1.12 million people. Inflation and insecurity are contributory factors. The report was released days after the NBS disclosed that Nigeria’s inflation stood at 21.09% from October 2022.
We are not surprised by the North-South gap in poverty surveys. At the 4th Kaduna Economic and Investment Summit in 2018, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and president of the Dangote Group, spoke about the dire extent of poverty in the region. Poverty is a national problem which requires multi-level support from critical stakeholders to address. Food affordability has long become a major challenge confronting most Nigerian homes.
Basic staples have been priced beyond the reach of an average Nigerian. Even the on-season periods when prices of certain items drop, providing a window for consumers to stockpile against off-season periods, no longer count due to the national security situation. In several parts of the country where farming is the main occupation, incessant violence in communities by terrorists has made the profession a serious hazard.
Rising unemployment, inflation, and an increasingly fragile currency continue to plague people and make their lives even more miserable. We therefore call on all levels of government to intervene to provide immediate relief to more than 60% of our population and develop sustainable measures to address the growing multidimensional poverty in Nigeria. People-friendly programmes must be implemented to instil much-needed hope in the population.
In November 2020, a report by the World Poverty Clock rated Nigeria as the poverty capital of the world. According to that report, Nigeria had overtaken India, which United Nations data indicated had a population of 1.3 billion people – more than six times the population of Nigeria. Meanwhile, since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, each of the four successive civilian administrations had rolled out different poverty alleviation programmes. The irony, however, is that rather than decrease, the level of poverty in Nigeria seems to be worsening.
The Buhari administration announced a series of social interventions aimed at shoring up the debilitating economic situation of Nigerians in 2016. The National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) sought to, among other things, provide soft credit to ‘millions of Nigerians’. Despite more than seven years of implementing the NSIP, the poverty level in the country has significantly increased, leading to widespread hunger and under-five deaths.
What is more surprising is that the managers of the NSIP expect that after defrauding many beneficiaries through underpaying them, these beneficiaries would turn around and pay back the fraudulent loans they got. The Trader Moni and other NSIP interventions were built on quicksand, driven more by politics rather than economics. Trillions of Naira have been thrown at the wind by the Federal Government with no tangible and visible outcomes for Nigerians.
To reduce poverty in Nigeria, there must be an increase in literacy rate and skill development. Nigeria has one out of every five out-of-school children in the world, according to UNICEF, with the situation in Northern Nigeria appearing to be even worse. According to data from October 2018, the country has the highest number of out-of-school children. This lack of human capital development invariably results in poverty.
Economic fragility due to an overreliance on oil revenue is another significant reason for the rising poverty levels in Nigeria. As such, diversifying economic activities is critical to give possibilities for Nigerians while maintaining economic stability. Poverty reduction can be aided by enhancing value addition in the agriculture sector. The sector currently employs a large workforce, but by growing it, the government will be able to give even more specialised jobs, allowing individuals to advance up the employment ladder.
With corruption deeply rooted in Nigeria’s system and the absence of penalties for corrupt public officials, the resultant effect has been the diversion of funds intended for development projects, leading to inadequate infrastructure development and social welfare, as well as poverty. Fighting corruption is a step in the right direction to rid the nation of its rising poverty levels, and to curb corruption, a comprehensive anti-corruption campaign and strong fiscal oversight are required.
Infrastructure investment is one strategy to help the country establish a more integrated economy, which can assist in alleviating poverty. Providing reliable power, a rail network, good roads, pipe-borne water, and intervention in mass housing projects, would stimulate economic activities and empower more Nigerians. All of these initiatives, if embraced and implemented properly, can significantly reduce poverty in our country.

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Editorial

NAFDAC’s Destruction Of Counterfeit Drugs

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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.

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Editorial

That NiMet’s Forecast

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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.

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Editorial

Rivers: Let The Projects Go On

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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.

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