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2023 Presidency: Assessing the Options Before Nigerians

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Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

 

By Adnan Mukhtar

As the 2023 general elections knock on the door with 18 presidential candidates on the ballot, pundits have narrowed the options available to Nigerians to just four.

This is the first time that Nigeria will witness the rise of major presidential contenders under unpopular platforms. Despite practising multi party system, Nigeria has always witnessed two major contenders for the office of the president since 1999.

It was Olusegun Obasanjo and Olu Falae in 1999. It was Obasanjo of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Muhammadu Buhari of the All People’s Party (APP) in 2003. It was Umaru Musa Yaradua of PDP and Buhari of All Nigerian People’s Party (ANPP) in 2007. It was Buhari of Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) and Dr Goodluck Jonathan of PDP in 2011. But in 2007 and 2011, Atiku Abubakar and Nuhu Ribadu flew the flags of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) respectively and both came third.

Buhari contested for this office three times and lost before he won in 2015 after the merger with other political parties which won him the southwest and north central.

The decision to elect Buhari in 2015 and 2019 has however turned out to be a regrettable one for Nigerians as sorrow, tears and blood have been the lot of the masses.

With all these challenges facing the country, who can rescue and unite Nigeria at this critical moment?

2023: NNPP Gubernatorial Candidate tackles FG over universities’ increase in registration fees

The All Progressives Congress has Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its flag bearer, Peoples Democratic Party has Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party is fielding Peter Obi and the New Nigeria Peoples Party has nominated Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Analysts are of the view that it’s a repeat of the 1979 general election with five candidates among whom Shehu Shagari of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) emerged victorious.

Despite having four major contenders, the race is strictly between Atiku and Tinubu. The other two – Obi and Kwankwaso – are just regional candidates like Obafemi Awolowo of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Nnamdi Azikwe of the Nigerian People’s Party (NPP) and Aminu Kano of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), in 1979.

While PDP and APC have structures across the country, LP and NNPP have not fielded candidates for all the National Assembly, State House of Assembly seats and governorship positions across the country.

While Atiku and Tinubu are aiming for the top prize, Obi and Kwankwaso are apparently in this race to garner experience for the future and claim they were once presidential candidates.

Tinubu’s candidacy has problems of its own. His party is deemed to have failed the country and his presence of mind and general health status are suspect.

Tinubu is relying on the core north to give him votes but his approval rating in the northwest has plummeted in recent weeks with new naira notes palaver and acute fuel shortage supervised by the APC moving people to the edge.

Hajia Najatu Mohammed’s defection to the Atiku camp and recent campaign against the APC candidate have also done incalculable damage to the chances of the Tinubu/Shettima ticket in the North.

Obi is winning the southeast, parts of south-south and parts of north central but there is no credible path to victory for him.

As attested to by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Obi’s performance in Anambra is also not inspiring, aside saving monies he should have spent on infrastructure and human capital development.

Kwankwaso’s performance as Kano State governor was incredible. He sponsored the children of the poor for postgraduate and undergraduate studies abroad.

His understanding of national politics is however shallow. Like Obi, he has to shatter a huge glass ceiling to be able to get near the Villa.

The NNPP according to analysts can only win Kano, his home state, with a slim margin but cannot go anywhere in Kaduna, Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States.

A vote for NNPP will only strengthen Tinubu’s APC. It is a vote for continuity of Buhari’s failure. The party is no where outside Kano, therefore will not be compared with Aminu Kano’s PRP in the second republic with two governors and members of the National Assembly from Kano, Kaduna and other Northern States.

Atiku is an old war horse, a restless fighter who has experience at the highest level to lead Nigeria to greater heights.

Atiku is contesting for the 5th time. He did it in 1992, 2007, 2015, 2019 and 2023. The ‘unifier’ has built bridges across the country. He was instrumental to bringing El-Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu, Okonjo Iweala and some other best brains into government. The economy was very stable until when he left as Vice President in 2007.

He has the best policy document and has the ability to implement it from the look of things. His ideas are lucid and convincing and everywhere he goes he holds the audience spellbound with his massive presence of mind, clarity of thoughts and clear headedness.

Obviously, he is the best man for the job. He is the right candidate to heal the wounds and cure the illness of that the Buhari administration represents.

 

Adnan is a Political PR Consultant. He writes from Atiku Abubakar Campaign Office, Zaria Road, Kano.

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Opinion

Barau Scholarship, Global Courses and Addressing Northern Underdevelopment

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Senator Barau Jibrin

 

By Abba Anwar

I deliberately coined Barauism as a concept being inspired by values and principles of the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, suggesting his philosophy, movement and ideology for hastening the process of development in Kano, other parts of Northern Nigeria and the nation by extension.

Let me start by congratulating, not DSP Barau for now, but the process for the selection of his scholarship beneficiaries, numbering 70. Out of this number, 65 are males, while the remaining 5 are females.

Due diligence, merit, clear vision and above all, independence of the process and procedures, from start to finish, were the bedrock of the political will, which brought the successful candidates into limelight.

The first time, to my knowledge, in Northern Nigeria, probably the South also, except in rare case(s) if that existed, when an individual political office holder and/or elected representative, provided similar scholarship for the study of these carefully selected courses, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Robotic Science for such number of students. At a go. I stand to be corrected.

These are areas that shape our world today. Making those selected to be global citizens who, after finishing their programmes would come and hasten the process of development in Kano and the nation in general.

The first time in Kano recent history, when such number of students were sent abroad to study 21st Century programmes, at a go. I mean all courses of study for the entire 70 beneficiaries are 21st Century fields. Not even a government, talkless of an individual philanthropist. I am referring to the chosen areas of study. I stand to be corrected.

Just like Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, of Kano South and Hon Abubakar Bichi, representing Bichi Federal Constituency, Senator Barau moves to second stage of human Empowerment. With different style and approach. As the courses, country of study and institutions indicate.

This time around, not cash grants or craft tools, like sewing machines, farming implements and the rest. But education, education and education. Of carefully selected programmes.

Surely Barau understands the velocity at which societal growth and development move and fit into modern technology, that have all potentialities for global recognition and acceptance.

When it comes to improved healthcare, increased efficiency in all fabrics of the society, enhanced education and smart infrastructure, among others, Artificial Intelligence is there.

For improving and engaging real technology for national security, job creation and sustainable economic growth and development, among others, Cybersecurity takes charge. Barau has the intelligence to understand this calculus.

As Hon Barau clearly sees beyond local politics, he chooses some of the most relevant and marketable programmes for the already airlifted students for their higher Degrees. The choice of India, for these courses, is in itself extraordinary and engaging.

Under Robotics Science, industrial automation, productivity, accuracy and efficiency in manufacturing are well placed for improvement. While in the healthcare sector this all-important programme, plays an important role in adding up in the areas of patient care, surgeries as well as rehabilitation of global standard.

It also helps much in monitoring and mitigating effects of climate change, pollution and other natural disasters. People of such educational attainment, in Robotics, have an added advantage over others in studying and understanding the universe in a scientific way. That is space exploration at its best.

Just two days to new year, Barau witnessed the airlift of those beneficiaries, when he reveals that, “One of the areas that we have a problem in educating our youth is the northwestern part of this country. We have a youth population, which is an asset to us, but our problem is that they are not well-educated. And I feel that our number one solution to our problems is educating our youth.”

“And we understand the importance of human capital. It’s key to the development of every nation.

It’s in this regard that I feel that the best thing to do is to begin to educate, help, or complement what the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is doing in terms of giving access to indigent students, our youth, who do not have the wherewithal, whose parents do not have the wherewithal to train them educationally.”

So he has the entire Northwest in mind.

As he also promised that, he would provide the beneficiaries with resources for their startups. This tells us that, Hon Barau is targeting at making Kano excel in innovation and entrepreneurship. To become Nigeria’s Silicon Valley.

Which will automatically lead to the emergence of new businesses and job opportunities for the overall development of the state.

While at the same time, such effort automatically leads to skills development, collaboration and teamwork for socio-economic impacts.

The nature and style of this scholarship where beneficiaries come from across local governments, not limited to his Constituency Kano North, but from all parts of the state, is the first of its kind.

People expect and wish that, other politicians, not only from All Progressives Congress (APC) should take a leaf from the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I. Jibrin. Moving to second stage of empowerment programmes.

Anwar was former Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Can be reach @ fatimanbaba1@gmail.com
31st December, 2024

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Opinion

Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad: A Trailblazer in Science Education and Leadership

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By Adamu Isah Babura.

I would like to congratulate Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, on her promotion to the exalted rank of Professor by the Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano.

Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad is a trailblazer, becoming the first female professor from Babura local government in Jigawa state, after a distinguished nearly 20-year old career in the university system. She rose through the academic ranks, from Graduate Assistant to the exalted rank of Professor, while taking on various leadership roles within the university, such as Head of Department, Science and Technical Education and Director of the Center for Gender Studies.

Her expertise extends beyond the university, having served as the Provost of Jigawa State College of Education. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of Minister of State for Education, Federal Republic of Nigeria, leveraging on her vast experience to shape the country’s education landscape.

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Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, the current Nigerian Minister of State for Education is an exemplary academic, a shining star in the area of Science Education. Her unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and uncompromising commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students, colleagues, and the academic community at large.

As a renowned scholar, Professor Ahmad’s contributions to her field of Science Education have been groundbreaking, insightful, and profoundly impactful. Her research has not only advanced our understanding of critical issues in the Education sector but has also informed policies, practice, and innovation.

A gifted and talented teacher, mentor, and a role model, Professor Ahmad has inspired generations of students to strive for excellence, cultivate love for learning, and develop into compassionate, thoughtful, and engaged citizens. Her ability to connect with students, to listen, guide, and nurture their growth is a rare gift, one that has earned her the admiration, respect, and gratitude of all who have had the privilege of learning from her.

Throughout her illustrious career in Bayero University, Kano and beyond, Professor Suwaiba has demonstrated remarkable leadership, collaborating with colleagues, institutions, and communities to advance the cause of education, promote social justice, and foster a culture of inclusivity, equity, and excellence.

As we celebrate Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad’s achievements on this great milestone, we honour not only her remarkable accomplishments but also her character, values, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world of Education. She is a true treasure, a beacon of hope, and an inspiration to us all.

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Opinion

Dissecting President’s Media Chat (1)-Abba Dukawa

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President Bola Ahmad Tinubu

 

Abba Dukawa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Monday media chat has sparked intense debate among Nigerians. Even before the interview was aired Nigerians lost interest in listening it.for those watches it argued the chat was pre-recorded and carefully edited, which have prevented tough questions from being asked.

Some question the choice of media outlets, suggesting that the president should have engaged with a broader range of journalists to ensure a more representative and challenging discussion. While Other segments of people point out that the chat demonstrated his confidence and commitment to the country’s development.

On the other hand, supporters argue that the chat was a positive step towards transparency and accountability, and others view it as a demonstration of his leadership and commitment to the country’s future.

In nutshell, opinions on the media chat reflect the deep divisions within Nigerian society. While some see it as a sign of the president’s insensitivity to the suffering of the citizens but the president’s emphasized himself confidence and vision for the country for driving progress.

Let’s begin with the pressing issue of insecurity plaguing parts of the country. Security experts have identified several underlying causes of insecurity in Nigeria, which significantly impede the nation’s socio-economic progress and development.

To grasp the severity of insecurity in certain geopolitical zones, considering Nigeria’s struggles with unprecedented security challenges. Despite the technical defeat of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs), the group continues to launch attacks.

Furthermore, banditry and kidnapping for ransom have reached alarming levels, with affected communities at the mercy of armed gangs that roam freely, wreaking havoc. For Mr President genuinely understand Nigeria’s security situation, President Tinubu must move beyond the fabricated statistics provided by his officials.

A firsthand experience, such as traveling from Abuja to Lagos by road, visiting local markets, or taking a stroll through any Nigerian city, will allow him to accurately assess and appreciate the reality on the ground.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics’ latest Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey report, Nigerians paid a staggering N2.3 trillion in ransom to kidnappers within in 2024. The amount surpasses the N1.647 trillion allocated for national defense in the 2024 budget and exceeds the combined 2024 budgets of several states, including Ekiti, Gombe, Yobe, Kogi, and Ondo, totaling N1.69 trillion.

On government borrowing: Within 18 months in power the administration has taken several foreign loans, totaling approximately $9.87 billion. World Bank Loans*: $1.95 billion was secured in the first four months of his administration.

Additionally, a $1.5 billion World Bank loan was reported.External Loan*: The Senate approved a ₦1.77 trillion ($2.2 billion) external loan request to finance Nigeria’s 2024 budget deficit and Other Loans*: $4.1 billion was borrowed, including $700 million for education, $750 million for power, and $500 million for women empowerment.

The government’s reckless borrowing spree is a stark demonstration of leaders insensitivity to the plight of citizens. Nigeria’s economy will continue to struggle unless the government adopts a more sustainable approach to harnessing the country’s vast mineral resources.

To break free from the cycle of debt and dependence on a single revenue source, the administration must prioritize diversifying Nigeria’s economy. This is crucial for building a stronger, more resilient economy that can support the needs and aspirations of all Nigerians.

Who will ultimately bear the burden of these debts? Will our already fragile economy be able to withstand the weight of repayment, or will Nigerians be reduced to slavery in their own country, forced to pay off debts incurred by reckless and frivolous politicians? There is need for President Tinubu and the leadership of Nigeria’s National Assembly to consider the pressing issue of Nigeria’s massive debt.

Tax reforms have come to stay, The National Economic Council (NEC), comprising the 36 state governors led by the Vice President, has expressed reservations about the tax reform bill, emphasizing the need for adequate consultations with stakeholders.

Experts and policymakers warn that these policies may have negative implications, including inflation. and advise the government to postpone tax reform bill and engage in further consultations.However, the President has swiftly rejected the NEC’s recommendation to withdraw the contentious tax reform bills, stressing that these bills are crucial in supporting his administration’s objectives and bolstering the country’s fiscal institutions.

President ‘s statement that he has “no regrets” about removing fuel subsidies ( This Seven Letters Words) has sparked concerns about his sensitivity to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. Despite his insistence that the reforms are necessary for growth and not intended to cause pain, the timing of the removal has been criticized for disregarding its negative implications for the masses.

The removal of fuel subsidies has had severe economic consequences, including a significant rise in inflation, which has led to skyrocketing prices of essential goods, transportation, and housing This, in turn, has drastically increased transportation expenses, affecting Nigerians’ daily lives and resulting in a decline in their standard of living.

Furthermore, the increased cost of living has led to a decrease in household income, further straining the financial stability of Nigerian families. People argue that the president’s lack of regret over the subsidy removal demonstrates his insensitivity to the plight of the masses, who are bearing the brunt of the economic hardships.

Dukawa write it in from Abuja can be reach at abbahydukawa@gmail.com

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