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Tag: Nigeria

  • Finally, UN shuts down air service in Nigeria over lack of funds

    Finally, UN shuts down air service in Nigeria over lack of funds

    The United Nations has shut down a critical air service in Nigeria’s northeast over severe funding shortages.

    The U.N. Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), run by the WFP, ended its fixed-wing operations in the country last week after nearly a decade of flying aid workers and supplies into conflict zones.

    “In 2024, UNHAS fixed-wing flights carried more than 9,000 passengers. Already this year, 4,500 humanitarian staff have relied on the service to reach affected areas.

    “UNHAS cannot continue without funding: $5.4 million is needed to remain operational for the next six months. Without this funding, the humanitarian response in north-east Nigeria risks being cut off from the very people it is meant to serve.

    “For nine years, the service has transported humanitarian staff, medical supplies, and critical cargo to and from the epicentre of the crisis in Borno and Yobe states,” Dujarric told reporters. “In a country that has experienced 16 years of conflict, where road transport remains extremely dangerous, air transport is essential.”

    The shutdown comes as the World Food Programme faces dire financial shortfalls.

    In July, the agency warned it might be forced to suspend emergency food and nutrition aid for 1.3 million people in northeastern Nigeria.

    The closure, announced by U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric in New York on Wednesday, showed the growing strain on relief efforts as donor funding declines.

    It noted that the shutdown threatens to deepen the country’s most protracted humanitarian emergencies.

    Margot van der Velden, WFP’s regional director for West and Central Africa, told reporters in New York that the agency urgently requires $5.4million to sustain food and nutrition operations in the region for just six months.

    Although the Nigerian government has provided significant support to relief efforts in the northeast, and is now the largest financier of the emergency response, the UN said international contributions remain crucial to sustaining operations at scale.

    “The humanitarian response in northeast Nigeria risks being cut off from the very people it is meant to serve,” Dujarric said, stressing that unless donors step in, critical aid pipelines will collapse.

    The UN warned that consequences could be devastating.

    “Without air links, humanitarian workers lose safe access to remote conflict-affected communities, where millions are already grappling with hunger, displacement, and violence.”

    It added that families may be forced into desperate choices such as enduring worsening hunger, migrating in unsafe conditions, or falling prey to extremist groups that continue to exploit vulnerabilities in the region.

    The U.N. appeal comes as humanitarian agencies worldwide confront shrinking donor budgets, driven by global economic pressures and competing crises from Gaza to Sudan to Ukraine.

    “For Nigeria’s northeast, where insurgency and instability have already displaced millions, the loss of a vital air bridge may further isolate vulnerable populations at a time when they can least afford it,” the statement added.

  • Nigeria records unprecedented rise in non-oil revenues – Presidency

    Nigeria records unprecedented rise in non-oil revenues – Presidency

    The Presidency has announced that Nigeria is experiencing unprecedented growth in non-oil revenues, driven by reforms targeting fiscal stability, compliance, and digital tax administration.

    Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said President Bola Tinubu highlighted the revenue growth while addressing a delegation from the Buhari Organisation on Tuesday.

    The President cited significant increases in non-oil revenues for all tiers of government between January and August 2025.

    Total collections reached ₦20.59 trillion, representing a 40.5 per cent rise from ₦14.6 trillion recorded during the same period in 2024.

    This performance aligns with projections and keeps government on track to achieve its annual non-oil revenue target.

    Tinubu added that the Federal Government has ceased borrowing from local banks since early 2025, underscoring improved fiscal discipline.

    He noted that while non-oil tax revenues are rising, oil-based revenues remain under pressure due to declining crude oil prices.

    The President emphasised that higher revenues have enabled record disbursements to states and local governments, supporting grassroots development.

    For the first time ever, monthly FAAC allocations exceeded ₦2 trillion in July 2025, enabling investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and essential public services.

    Still, the Presidency admitted that revenue growth alone is insufficient to meet ambitious goals for education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

    Tinubu stressed that oil is no longer the main engine of national revenue, signalling a historic shift in Nigeria’s fiscal landscape.

    “Nigeria’s fiscal foundations are being reshaped. For the first time in decades, oil is no longer the dominant driver of government revenue.

    “The combination of reforms, compliance, and digitisation powers a more resilient economy.

    “The task ahead is ensuring these gains improve citizens’ lives through better schools, hospitals, and jobs,” he said.

    The President revealed that ₦20.59 trillion was mobilised in eight months, marking the highest collection in recent history.

    “With ₦15.69 trillion collected, non-oil revenues now account for three of every four naira, showing a decisive shift from oil dependence.

    “While inflation and FX revaluation contributed, the uplift is mainly reform-driven — digitised filings, Customs automation, stricter enforcement, and broadened compliance.

    “₦3.68 trillion was collected in H1, ₦390 billion above target, already 56 per cent of the full-year goal. This reflects systemic reforms, not mere windfalls,” he said.

    Tinubu also confirmed that FAAC allocations to states had increased, empowering subnationals to drive local development.

    “FAAC allocations reached ₦2 trillion in July for the first time, giving states resources to strengthen grassroots development.

    “The government affirms collections are ahead of expectations, with final validation to be published by the Budget Office at year’s end,” he said.

    He reiterated that Nigeria’s revenue base is expanding and reforms are producing tangible results.

    “The priority is translating numbers into real relief — putting food on the table, creating jobs, and investing in roads, schools, and hospitals,” he said.

  • Ukraine Embassy in Nigeria displays three years of resilience against Russia’s attacks

    Ukraine Embassy in Nigeria displays three years of resilience against Russia’s attacks

    The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has condemned the recent killings of civilians by Russia after launching missiles and drones.

    The Embassy frowned at the attacks while hosting the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja to an exhibition that showcased a series of the most striking photographs taken during the war, reflecting the resilience of the Ukrainian people, their struggles and their hopes with the theme “Three Years of Resilience: Ukraine In Photograph.

    The Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Ivan Kholostenko, who spoke virtually from Kyiv, said the assault, carried out on the night of August 28, 2025, claimed at least 18 lives, including four children, the youngest not yet three years, as well as damaged the premises of the European Union Delegation in Kyiv, reports Daily Trust.

    Describing the strike as a violation of international law, he said, “The killing of children is the gravest of crimes, one that requires firm international condemnation and accountability.

    Russia is a terrorist state, and we call on all countries and international organisations to formally recognise this status. We urge our partners across Africa to intensify pressure on Russia.”

    The solemn ceremony earlier had a Condolence Register opened in memory of those killed in recent attacks, followed by a diplomatic dialogue with Nigerian journalists.

    Ukraine’s Consul, Mr. Oleksii Samillo, praised Nigeria as a “like-minded nation” that is open, hardworking, and development-focused, while underscoring Ukraine’s determination to continue contributing to global partnerships despite the ongoing war.

    “We are open like Nigeria. We are ready like Nigeria. We are developing our country, even as we continue to defend it,” he said. “Despite the challenges, we are still contributing from agriculture to IT and industrial collaboration.”

    As part of the exhibition, journalists viewed authentic pictures, artefacts, banners, and patches sent from the frontlines, symbols of Ukraine’s ongoing resistance since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

    The war, now in its third year, has caused thousands of civilian deaths, displaced millions, and drawn widespread international condemnation. Mr. Idehai Frederic, Chairman of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), pledged the media’s support in ensuring accurate, fair, balanced and professional coverage of Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria.

  • Heavy pressure mounts on Wale Edun, Accountant-General to resign over unpaid 2024 contracts

    Heavy pressure mounts on Wale Edun, Accountant-General to resign over unpaid 2024 contracts

    The Coalition for Equity and Accountability in Public Finance (CEAPF) has demanded the immediate resignation of Finance Minister Wale Edun and Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, the Accountant-General of the Federation, accusing both of failing to pay contractors for projects duly captured in the 2024 budget and fully executed by local firms.

    In a statement on Wednesday signed by its President, Comrade Segun Daramola, and Secretary-General, Comrade Isaac Idachaba, the coalition said it would formally approach the National Assembly and lobby lawmakers across party lines to pass a vote of no confidence on the two officials if they refuse to vacate their offices voluntarily.

    “This is no longer a mere administrative delay; it is a calculated dereliction of duty. Contractors have completed projects backed by law, projects approved and funded under the 2024 Appropriation Act, yet they are left unpaid and forced into bankruptcy. Meanwhile, the Federal Government is executing and paying for projects not captured in either the 2024 or 2025 Appropriation Acts. This is unlawful, it is reckless, and it is unacceptable,” the statement reads.

    The coalition said the contradictions point to a troubling pattern in the fiscal management of the country, where legal obligations are ignored while off-budget expenditures receive priority.

    According to the group, this not only undermines transparency but also destroys confidence in the sanctity of the budget process.

    “What we are witnessing is a distortion of governance itself. Appropriation is the foundation of democracy, the guarantee that public money is spent as authorised by the people through their representatives,” the group declared.

    “If ministers and accountants can disregard this at will, then the National Assembly must rise up. It is the duty of lawmakers now to assert their authority by removing those who have so flagrantly undermined them.”

    The coalition noted that contractors across the federation have complained of crippling debts, many of them having borrowed at exorbitant rates from commercial banks to deliver on government projects.

    CEAPF said the neglect has created a chain reaction of economic distress, hitting small businesses, suppliers, and workers who depend on the contracting system for their livelihoods.

    “Government contracts are supposed to stimulate the economy. Instead, under the stewardship of Mr. Wale Edun and the Accountant General, they have become instruments of ruin. Firms are collapsing, workers are being laid off, and banks are foreclosing on loans. This is economic sabotage by negligence,” the statement said.

    The group argued that the crisis has become both a financial and moral issue, one that cannot be resolved by half-measures.

    It insisted that resignation was the only honourable course left for the finance minister and the accountant general, stressing that anything less would amount to a “mockery of accountability”.

    “Our democracy cannot survive on promises that are never kept. If a government can budget for projects, award them, certify them, and then refuse to pay while diverting resources to unbudgeted ventures, what message does it send to citizens and investors? It tells the world that Nigeria is lawless and that contracts mean nothing. That is why we must draw a line here.”

    The coalition also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene decisively, saying his own reputation as a reformer was being called into question by the finance ministry’s failings.

    “The President has spoken of fiscal discipline and reform. This is the moment to prove that those words have meaning. If his team members cannot carry out the most basic function of governance — honouring the budget and paying for executed contracts — then they must step aside for those who can,” the group declared.

    For many observers, the controversy over unpaid contracts has become more than an accounting dispute. It is now a test of whether Nigeria can uphold the rule of law in its fiscal affairs and whether its leaders can be trusted to respect the authority of parliament.

  • Military wastes terrorists, nabs 13, rescues 15 across Nigeria

    Military wastes terrorists, nabs 13, rescues 15 across Nigeria

    Troops of the Nigerian Army have wasted scores of terrorists and nabbed 15 others in a series of coordinated operations across the country.

    A military source told The Nation late Monday night that troops also rescued 15 kidnap victims during onslaughts conducted from August 29 to 31.

    According to the source, troops recovered a large cache of high calibre weapons, ammunition, explosives, and illegally refined petroleum products.

    Providing details on the successes, the source revealed that in the Northwest zone, troops of 17 Brigade in Katsina State and 1 Brigade Combat Team in Zamfara State rescued 12 kidnap victims from terrorist captivity.

    Furthermore, troops also conducted successful rescue operations in the Northcentral and Southeast regions, with Operation Whirl Stroke troops in Nasarawa State and 34 Artillery Brigade troops in Imo State rescuing three kidnap victims during a crackdown on terrorist hideouts.

    According to the source, a combined team comprising 1 Battalion Rear of the Nigerian Army, other security forces, and local vigilantes intensified crackdowns on suspected collaborators and logistics suppliers of criminal groups in the Northwest, raiding criminal hideouts in Kebbi and Sokoto States, where they arrested six suspected members of the notorious Lakurawa terrorist group and seized their logistics items and cash.

    In Kano and Kaduna States, troops recovered empty ammunition shells and other evidence after encounters with fleeing terrorists,” the source said.

    In Taraba State, three impostors posing as security personnel were apprehended and handed over to the Police for further investigation.”

    The source reported a significant success against IPOB/ESN fighters in Imo State, where troops dismantled and destroyed their sentry posts and an improvised explosive device (IED) factory, and disposed of multiple explosives found along major routes.

    They also recovered IED detonators, CCTV cameras, and metal fragments prepared for bomb-making.”

    The source highlighted successes against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region, noting that troops intercepted and destroyed large volumes of illegally refined products, arresting two suspects with over 2,500 litres of stolen petroleum products in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States.

    “Similarly, in Imo State, troops discovered illegal refining sites containing more than 700 litres of crude oil and refined products, which were destroyed in line with standard procedures.”

    According to the source, troops have also intensified arms recovery efforts, “arresting two armed suspects in Delta State who were found with two locally fabricated pistols, a pump-action rifle, cartridges, and mobile phones.”

    The source stated that the rescued victims were handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families, assuring that “the Nigerian Army will continue to dismantle criminal networks nationwide, creating a safer environment to boost agricultural activities and support the Federal Government’s food security initiatives

  • Reason for Colombian VP visit to Nigeria – Shettima

    Reason for Colombian VP visit to Nigeria – Shettima

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said that the visit of his Colombian counterpart, Mrs Francia Márquez, to Nigeria, along with ongoing bilateral engagements, will mark the beginning of a new chapter in relations between the two countries.Speaking on Sunday at a Gala Dinner held in honour of the Colombian Vice President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima described Márquez’s presence in Nigeria as the start of a “new dawn.”

    Márquez arrived in Abuja on Saturday for a three-day official visit, accompanied by her spouse, Mr Rafael Ocoró, cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders.

    The delegation is expected to engage their Nigerian counterparts in strategic discussions aimed at deepening cooperation across key sectors.

    Shettima said the visit was evidence that Nigeria and Colombia were entering a new era of fraternal partnership, one that promised deeper political cooperation, expanded economic ventures, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges.

    He conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people to the visitors, stating that the bilateral engagements were founded on mutual interests in the future of both nations.

    “This historic visit and tomorrow’s engagements will be the gateway to a new chapter.

    “More than ever, Nigeria is inspired to plant the seeds of trust, water them with dialogue, and nurture them into fruits of prosperity that our children and grandchildren shall one day harvest,” Shettima said.

    He noted that Nigeria and Colombia had maintained diplomatic ties for more than 51 years, describing the relationship as one rooted not just in diplomacy, but in a shared sense of humanity.

    “We have watched each other across oceans, spoken through third countries, and yet our hearts have always known that the distance between us is only geography,” he added.

    Shettima raised a toast to stronger relations between Nigeria and Colombia and expressed hope that Márquez’s visit would yield meaningful outcomes for both nations.

    On her part, Vice President Márquez described her visit as strategic and historic, noting that it highlighted the shared heritage and values between Colombia and Nigeria.

    She emphasised her African descent and said her trip aimed to boost cooperation in the areas of social justice, peace, tourism, health, culture, and education, among others.

    Márquez also pledged that Colombia would use its position in South America to strengthen trade relations with Africa and enhance diplomatic ties with Nigeria.

    She further conveyed the condolences of Colombian President Gustavo Petro to the government and people of Nigeria over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, described the dinner as a celebration of the Colombian Vice President’s “homecoming” and an opportunity to rekindle longstanding friendship between the two countries.

    He highlighted the unique values and opportunities both nations shared, saying that if fully harnessed, they could positively impact key sectors of both economies.

    Hadejia added that the gala night also served as a platform to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of both countries, emphasising that diplomacy between Nigeria and Colombia extended beyond policy to embrace cultural exchanges in music, art, and cuisine.

    The event was attended by ministers and top government officials from both Nigeria and Colombia.

  • Nigeria can achieve $1trn economy by 2030 – NACCIMA

    Nigeria can achieve $1trn economy by 2030 – NACCIMA

    President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr Jami Ibrahim, has affirmed that Nigeria’s ambition of building a one trillion dollar economy by 2030 is achievable.

    Ibrahim, who said this on Saturday in Abuja at the NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneur National Youth Summit 2025, stressed that the road to its achievement lay in digital transformation.

    He urged government at all levels alongside stakeholders to work assiduously toward unlocking the potential of the youth to achieve the nation’s goal.

    “Nigeria’s ambition of building a one trillion dollar economy by 2030 is bold, it’s also very achievable. But you only realize it if we unlock the future full potentials, the full potentials of our youths.

    “So, I want to throw a challenge to the youth that it can be done, and that the element and the people that we do it is those of us who are sitting in this room today, the youth.

    “The road to this economy lies in digital transformation. Digital transformation, innovation driven entrepreneurship and robust policy frameworks that enable young people to thrive. Young people must thrive,” he said.

    The NACCIMA boss who advocated a conducive environment for youth to thrive in business, urged the lawmakers to pass necessary law to promote business development in the country.

    “Perhaps maybe we’ll be engaging the legislatures, you know, for legislative agenda that they should pass a law that you must not discriminate against any young business in this country so that they can be encouraged.

    “ Let them know that they have the full backing of the law to do what they have to do. It’s a task and it must be done. There is no alternative. It is something that must be done,” he said.

    While giving the commitment of NACCIMA in ensuring the achievement of the economic target, he highlighted the association’s focus areas for strategy to include trade facilitation and export promotion.

    He said that it also included simplifying trade processes, improving logistics and opening up markets for our youths, enterprise development and MSME support.

    The president said this also included building the capacity of small businesses through incubation and linkages going forward.

    “The small businesses are the ones that are going to turn around the fortunes of our country. And the earlier the better if we realise it, support them, nurture them, fund them, promote them and open markets them.

    “The earlier we do that the better for us. And they are easy to scale. They are easy to form, you know, and small businesses that we’re talking about, you’ll be shocked what they can do.

    “A lady that is selling akara, you know, by the roadside, it’s a small business, but I’m sure she’s engaging two or three people at that point,” he said.

    According to him, they may be her children or her relations, but as a supply chain, you know, in that business.

    “It is very easy to scale small businesses, bring them up to speed so that they can realize the objectives that this country greatly needs.

    “Then they are the ones that will come to become big businesses because you must start small. They are the ones that will be big businesses of tomorrow,” he said.

    The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by Mr Ugonna Aneke, an official in the ministry, harped on the need to strengthen the capacity of the youth.

    “We need to strengthen our economies and sustain our environments. Sustainable innovation, innovation that balances economic progress with environmental stewardship and social inclusion, has become a necessity and not a choice.

    “It is in this journey our youth are the greatest catalyst. They bring bold ideas, digital adaptability, and the courage to disrupt the status quo.

    According to him, Nigerian youth population, the largest in Africa, is one of our greatest assets. We see daily evidence of their resilience, creativity, integrity, farmland, classroom, and education.

    “They are creating industry and local communities. From non-experimental human-brain startups to digital innovators, driving smart solutions for agriculture, health, education, clean energy

    “Nigerian youth are showing that they are ready and able to lead the transition to a more sustainable future.

    “As a ministry responsible for youth development, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering our young people with skills, resources, and enabling environment they need to drive,” he said.

    Alhassan Doguwa, Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) and the Special Committee on Oil Theft, commended the Federal Government for initiating policies that are youth oriented.

    “I want to believe even Nigerian governments across the federation are doing a very much to empower Nigerian youth because they actually hold the key to the economic development of our country.

    “If there’s anything to add to this probably is the fact that despite the best and the very best we are doing, how do we make people do more. Probably the best they are doing may not have been good enough.

    “So I, as one of those that can be with the cycle of institutions of government, have accepted this as a challenge.

    “That within the course of my duty and my work as a legislator, I have a feeling that we still have to do more, and more.

    “This is to make sure Nigerian youth contribute their quota, in the areas they can do for the economic development and other developments in our country,” he said.

    Mr Rotimi Olaoluwa, the National Publicity Secretary for NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneur, described the summit as first of its kind.

    Olaoluwa said that the summit brought all the stakeholders together with the intent of unlocking the youth potentials for the development of the nation.

    “The major take home from this event is for us to look at the opportunity in different Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and other partners, what they have for the youth.

    “Because we’ve realised that a lot are sitting with so many MDAs and other organizations that the youth are not aware of.

    “That’s why we are bringing those major stakeholders to tell us the programme they have in their different organisations so the youth can tap in to that opportunity,”he said.

  • Nigerian Interior Minister calls for reform of Correctional Centres

    Nigerian Interior Minister calls for reform of Correctional Centres

    The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has emphasized that correctional centres across Nigeria must transform into institutions focused on rehabilitation and reformation, rather than serving as mere places of condemnation.

    The minister made this statement during a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, outlining the government’s vision for a more humane and effective correctional system.

    Speaking at the event, Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the operations of Nigeria’s correctional facilities to align with global best practices. “Our correctional centres should be places where individuals are reformed, equipped with skills, and prepared to reintegrate into society as productive citizens,” he said. “Punishment alone does not solve the problem; we must focus on transforming lives.”

    The minister revealed plans to enhance vocational training, educational programs, and psychological support within correctional facilities to reduce recidivism and promote successful societal reintegration. He also stressed the importance of improving living conditions for inmates, citing overcrowding and inadequate facilities as critical challenges.

    Tunji-Ojo announced that the Ministry of Interior is collaborating with stakeholders, including international partners, to modernize infrastructure and train correctional officers to better support rehabilitation efforts. “We are committed to ensuring that our correctional centres reflect the principles of justice, dignity, and human rights,” he added.

    The minister’s remarks come amid growing calls for prison reforms in Nigeria, where many facilities face issues such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to rehabilitation programs. According to recent data from the Nigerian Correctional Service, over 70% of inmates in the country’s prisons are awaiting trial, further straining resources.

    Tunji-Ojo urged state governments and the judiciary to work together to expedite trials and decongest facilities, emphasizing that the success of the reformation agenda depends on a collective effort. He also called on civil society organizations to partner with the government in providing support services for inmates.

    The Ministry of Interior has pledged to roll out pilot programs in select correctional centres by the end of the year, with a nationwide implementation plan to follow. The initiative is expected to create a more rehabilitative environment and reduce the stigma faced by ex-convicts.

  • BREAKING! Despite hunger, FG increases cost of passport by 100%

    BREAKING! Despite hunger, FG increases cost of passport by 100%

    Despite hunger ravaging Nigerians, the Federal Government has approved a 100% increase in Nigerian passport application fees, with the new rates set to take effect from September 1, 2025.

    This was announced in a statement on Thursday by the spokesman of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), A.S. Akinlabi, who said the review is aimed at safeguarding the quality and integrity of the Nigerian Standard Passport.

    Under the new fee structure for applications made within Nigeria:

    The 32-page passport (5-year validity) will now cost ₦100,000 (up from ₦50,000).
    The 64-page passport (10-year validity) will now cost ₦200,000 (up from ₦100,000).
    Applications by Nigerians in the diaspora remain unchanged at $150 for the 32-page passport and $230 for the 64-page booklet.

    This development comes just a year after the Federal Government last reviewed passport fees in 2024, when the cost rose by about 42.86%:

    32-page passport moved from ₦35,000 to ₦50,000.
    64-page passport increased from ₦70,000 to ₦100,000.
    With the latest adjustment, both categories have now doubled — representing a 100% hike compared to the 2024 fees.

    The NIS, however, reassured applicants of its commitment to delivering quality services, while acknowledging the concerns over affordability for ordinary Nigerians.

  • Governance without empathy: Silent cry of the masses – By Omokhodion Okojie

    Governance without empathy: Silent cry of the masses – By Omokhodion Okojie

    By Prince Omokhodion Okojie

    Nigeria stands today at a critical crossroad, where the cries of her citizens are drowned by the deafening drums of political self-interest. The gap between government priorities and the people’s realities has never been wider.

    Across the nation, families struggle to afford basic necessities—food, fuel, transportation, and school fees—yet the ruling elite remains engrossed in a pursuit of personal comfort and the politics of 2027. This growing insensitivity is not just an economic issue; it’s an emotional and psychological tragedy with far-reaching consequences for national unity and stability.

    The Stark Contrast: When Comfort Becomes a Political Culture

    In recent months, the headlines have been disturbing. While inflation continues to soar and unemployment cripples the average Nigerian, the government is reportedly considering an upward review of salaries and allowances for political office holders. At the same time, billions of naira are being allocated to the purchase of brand-new luxury vehicles and renovations of official residences—all in the name of governance.

    But governance for whom?

    Certainly not for the market woman who now sells her goods in tears because customers can no longer afford to buy. Certainly not for the civil servant who spends half of his salary on transportation. Certainly not for the young graduate whose dreams have been delayed, if not destroyed, by an economy that offers no hope.

    The 2027 Syndrome

    What makes this scenario even more alarming is the subtle but deliberate preparation for the 2027 elections. Every major project approved, every policy being pushed, and every financial maneuver appears to have a political undertone—building war chests rather than building schools, hoarding resources rather than creating opportunities. It’s no longer about the social contract between leaders and citizens; it’s about consolidating power and protecting personal interests.

    This approach turns governance into a game of survival for politicians, while the masses are left to survive on their own. This is the death of empathy in leadership.

    The Psychological Effect on the Masses

    You cannot starve a people physically without starving them emotionally. Nigerians are not only suffering economically; they are breaking psychologically:

    Hopelessness: When citizens perceive that leaders have no concern for their plight, it kills hope. And a hopeless nation is a dangerous one because hopelessness breeds desperation.

    Anger and Resentment: People watch the flamboyance of politicians on TV while their children cry of hunger. This contrast deepens bitterness and resentment toward the ruling class.

    Loss of Trust in Government: The most dangerous deficit in a democracy is not budgetary—it is trust. When trust is broken, no amount of rhetoric can repair it.

    Migration and Brain Drain: When people feel abandoned, the next instinct is escape. The Japa syndrome is not just about greener pastures; it’s about fleeing from a government that doesn’t care.

    Why This Insensitivity is Dangerous

    History teaches that revolutions are born when suffering meets arrogance. A government that ignores the emotional pulse of its citizens is sitting on a ticking time bomb. Even the most loyal followers will eventually revolt when pushed to the wall.

    The Moral Responsibility of Leaders

    Leadership is not about comfort; it is about sacrifice. True leaders cut their pleasures to reduce their people’s pains. Imagine what would happen if lawmakers voluntarily slashed their salaries by half and invested the difference in community projects. Imagine governors foregoing luxury convoys for modest vehicles and using the savings to subsidize food or transportation. These symbolic gestures could restore confidence and ignite hope in millions of hearts.

    But unfortunately, the current reality is the opposite. While the citizens are tightening belts, the leaders are loosening theirs for more extravagance. This is not governance; this is gluttony in power.

    What Should the People Do?

    Nigerians must keep speaking, but not just on social media. They must demand accountability through organized, peaceful advocacy. Civil societies, churches, and community groups must amplify their voices. Silence in the face of oppression is an endorsement of oppression.

    At the same time, citizens must guard their hearts against hatred and violence. The system thrives when the people are broken; therefore, do not lose your mental stability. Stay informed, stay united, and prepare to use your power responsibly when the time comes.

    A Final Plea to the Political Class

    Dear leaders, pause and look out the window—not from the tinted glass of your SUVs but from the streets where the real Nigeria breathes. Listen to the cry of the mother who cannot feed her children. Hear the sigh of the young man whose dreams are wasting away. Feel the frustration of the father who cannot pay rent.

    Your power is not eternal; neither is your immunity. When history writes its verdict, it will not be the size of your convoy that matters but the size of your compassion. Let empathy return to governance before it’s too late.