Eneojo

01/12/2024

https://youtu.be/RLyxWuQWBlk?si=1a_7mczWQTtPaKMG

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF DR STEVEN MAKOJI ACHEMA, A Documentary presented on the 25th Memorial anniversary at the Yar adua center Abuja, 25th November 2024

01/12/2024

https://youtu.be/RLyxWuQWBlk?si=1a_7mczWQTtPaKMG

01/10/2024

Nigeria @64: Prompt Payment of Salaries Is an Obligation, Not an Achievement

As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, the nation continues to grapple with numerous socio-economic challenges, one of which is the issue of salary payments for public sector workers. For far too long, public discourse has celebrated the prompt payment of salaries as a major achievement of governance. In reality, paying full 100% salaries and on time is not an achievement to be celebrated but an obligation that the government must fulfill. Salaries represent a contract between workers and their employers, and governments at all levels should recognize that honoring this contract is a basic responsibility.

In a country like Nigeria, where public sector employment accounts for a significant portion of the workforce, delays, percentage or non-payment of salaries have severe consequences, not only for workers but for the broader economy and social fabric. Our role here is to correct the impression that the prompt payment of salaries is not an extraordinary act of goodwill but a fundamental duty of governance. It will explore the root causes of salary delays, the socio-economic impact of percentage or non-payment, and the urgent need for Nigerian governments to refocus their priorities toward creating an efficient, accountable, and responsive public service.

1. The Contractual Nature of Salaries

The payment of salaries represents the fulfillment of a contractual obligation. When an individual agrees to work for the government, they enter into an agreement that in exchange for their time, skills, and labor, they will receive compensation in the form of a salary. This contract, whether written or implied, is legally binding, and failure to fulfill it constitutes a breach of trust and responsibility.

Unfortunately, many Nigerian governments, especially at the state level, have fallen short of honoring this basic commitment. Workers across various states and sectors, including teachers, doctors, and local government employees, have faced delayed or percentage salaries for months, sometimes even years. In some cases, salaries have been slashed arbitrarily without explanation or compensation. Despite this, some politicians and leaders often expect praise for paying workers’ salaries on time or for clearing salary arrears, as if they are performing a favor to workers. This attitude reflects a profound misunderstanding of governance and the duties of public officeholders.

Governance is about service delivery, and the primary responsibility of any government is to ensure that its workers are paid for their services. Governments should not seek applause for fulfilling this basic duty; rather, their performance should be measured by how well they address the underlying causes of salary delays, provide efficient public services, and create enabling conditions for national development.

2. Causes of Salary Delays

There are several factors contributing to salary delays in Nigeria, ranging from poor financial management to corruption and inefficiency. These issues are symptoms of deeper structural problems in the country’s governance systems.

a. Poor Financial Management

A significant number of Nigerian states depend heavily on federal allocations to fund their budgets, including the payment of salaries. Fluctuations in global oil prices, which Nigeria relies on for the majority of its revenue, often lead to a reduction in these allocations, thereby affecting states’ ability to meet their financial obligations. Many states lack diversified revenue streams, making them vulnerable to economic shocks and financial crises. This over-reliance on federal funds creates a financial bottleneck, leading to salary delays when federal allocations are inadequate.

b. Corruption and Mismanagement

Corruption is another major cause of salary delays. Public funds earmarked for salary payments are often diverted for personal enrichment by politicians and government officials. This mismanagement of resources results in insufficient funds to meet payroll obligations, leaving workers stranded without pay. In some cases, ghost workers—fictitious employees created to siphon money from the payroll—exacerbate the problem, further draining resources meant for legitimate workers.

c. Lack of Fiscal Responsibility and Prioritization

Many Nigerian governments also suffer from poor fiscal responsibility and prioritization. Non-essential projects, luxury expenditures, and bloated political offices often take precedence over the basic needs of the people, including the prompt payment of salaries. Rather than channeling available funds toward workers' welfare and service delivery, resources are often squandered on projects with minimal impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

d. Bureaucratic Inefficiency

Delays in salary payments can also be traced to inefficiencies within the public sector. Outdated payroll systems, poor record-keeping, and bureaucratic bottlenecks create unnecessary delays in processing salaries. In some cases, employees who have already worked for several months remain unregistered in the payroll system, leading to further delays in receiving their pay.

3. The Socio-Economic Impact of Salary Delays

The delayed payment of salaries has devastating effects on public sector workers, their families, and the wider economy. The Nigerian economy, with its high inflation rates and rising cost of living, is particularly unforgiving when salaries are delayed.

a. Poverty and Financial Hardship

One of the most immediate consequences of salary delays is the financial hardship experienced by workers. Many public sector employees, especially those in lower salary brackets, live paycheck to paycheck. A delay in salary payments can plunge families into poverty, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare. This creates a ripple effect, as families are forced to take on debt, sell assets, or forgo essential services.

b. Reduced Productivity and Morale

Delayed salaries also have a negative impact on worker productivity and morale. When employees are not paid on time, they become demotivated and less likely to perform their duties effectively. In critical sectors such as healthcare and education, this loss of productivity can have life-threatening consequences. Doctors, nurses, and teachers who are not paid on time may be unable to provide the essential services that society depends on.

c. Weakening of Public Trust

Salary delays erode trust in government institutions. Public sector workers who are not paid on time lose confidence in their employers, and the wider public loses faith in the government’s ability to manage resources effectively. This loss of trust can lead to social unrest, protests, and strikes, further weakening the already fragile relationship between the government and its citizens.

d. Negative Economic Impacts

The broader economy also suffers from salary delays. Public sector workers constitute a significant portion of the Nigerian consumer base. When salaries are delayed, these workers cut back on spending, leading to reduced demand for goods and services. This, in turn, affects businesses and can slow down economic growth. Moreover, delayed salary payments can contribute to a rise in loan defaults, as workers who depend on their salaries to service loans are unable to meet their financial obligations.

4. Moving Forward: Prioritizing Workers’ Welfare

To address the issue of salary delays and ensure that the prompt payment of salaries becomes the norm rather than the exception, Nigerian governments must adopt a more responsible and accountable approach to governance.

a. Strengthening Fiscal Management

State and federal governments need to adopt sound fiscal management practices, diversify their revenue streams, and reduce reliance on federal allocations. This will require improving tax collection systems, encouraging private sector growth, and implementing policies that promote economic diversification. Governments should also create contingency plans to ensure that salary payments are prioritized even during periods of economic downturn.

b. Fighting Corruption

Corruption must be tackled head-on. Governments should strengthen anti-corruption institutions, enforce laws that hold public officials accountable, and increase transparency in budgetary processes. The elimination of ghost workers from the payroll system is also essential to ensuring that funds are directed toward legitimate employees.

c. Modernizing Payroll Systems

Nigeria’s public sector must modernize its payroll systems to improve efficiency and reduce delays. This includes adopting digital payment platforms, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and ensuring that all employees are registered and paid on time.

d. Holding Leaders Accountable

Ultimately, Nigerian leaders must be held accountable for their actions—or lack thereof. Citizens must demand transparency and accountability from their governments, particularly regarding the management of public resources. Civic engagement, labor unions, and civil society organizations have a critical role to play in advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring that governments prioritize the welfare of their employees.

5. Conclusion: Salary Payment Is a Right, Not a Favor

As Nigeria marks 64 years of independence, it is time for a shift in the narrative surrounding the prompt payment of salaries. Paying workers on time is not an extraordinary achievement deserving of applause; it is a basic obligation that governments must fulfill. The failure to pay salaries promptly is a violation of workers’ rights, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and the economy.

Nigerian governments must prioritize fiscal responsibility, fight corruption, and modernize payroll systems to ensure that salary payments are never delayed. By doing so, they can build a more efficient, accountable, and responsive public service that truly serves the needs of the people. Only then can Nigeria move toward a future where workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

© Market Hub Media limited

01/10/2024

Nigeria @64: A Paradox of Dashed Hopes and Expectations

As Nigeria marks 64 years of independence, the nation stands at a critical crossroads. It was on October 1, 1960, that the giant of Africa emerged from colonial rule, filled with dreams of greatness and aspirations for prosperity. With a wealth of natural resources, a vibrant and diverse population, and a strategic geopolitical position, Nigeria was seen as a beacon of hope for the African continent. However, six decades later, the country remains mired in the paradox of dashed hopes and unmet expectations. Despite its enormous potential, Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges that seem to have worsened over time, leaving many citizens disillusioned.

Here we explore the paradox of Nigeria at 64, tracing the trajectory of the nation's development, examining the factors that have contributed to the unfulfilled promises of independence, and reflecting on the steps needed to reverse this trend and build a future that lives up to the expectations of its people.

1. The Promise of Independence

At the dawn of independence, Nigeria was poised to lead Africa into a new era of development and self-determination. The country inherited an agricultural-based economy, vast natural resources, and a large, youthful population ready to contribute to nation-building. The early years of independence were filled with optimism, as Nigeria adopted a federal system of government, aimed at managing its ethnic diversity and fostering political stability.

In addition to its potential for economic growth, Nigeria was seen as a model of democracy for Africa. Its leaders, such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo, and Tafawa Balewa, were regarded as visionary statesmen committed to steering the country toward greatness. The country’s early economic success, particularly in agriculture and oil, raised expectations that Nigeria would soon emerge as a major player on the global stage.

2. The Slow Descent: Civil War and Military Rule

However, the promise of independence was quickly overshadowed by internal conflicts and political instability. In 1967, just seven years after independence, Nigeria was plunged into a brutal civil war, also known as the Biafran War. The war, which lasted until 1970, exposed deep ethnic and regional divisions within the country and resulted in widespread suffering and loss of life. The scars of the civil war remain, with lingering tensions between different ethnic groups still shaping the political landscape today.

The post-civil war era saw the rise of military rule in Nigeria, as a series of coups led to the suspension of democratic governance. For nearly three decades, Nigeria oscillated between military dictatorships and brief periods of civilian rule. During this time, the country’s institutions were weakened, corruption became entrenched, and public trust in government eroded. The military rulers prioritized personal gain over national development, squandering the nation's resources and deepening inequality.

3. The Oil Boom and Its Curse

One of the most significant developments in Nigeria’s post-independence history was the discovery of oil in commercial quantities in the late 1950s. By the 1970s, Nigeria had become one of the world’s largest oil producers, with oil revenues providing the government with vast financial resources. However, rather than being a blessing, the oil boom turned into a curse.

The Nigerian economy became overly dependent on oil, neglecting other sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. This dependency made the economy vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, leading to periods of economic instability. Moreover, the mismanagement of oil revenues and widespread corruption meant that the benefits of Nigeria's oil wealth did not reach the majority of the population. Instead, a small elite amassed enormous wealth, while poverty and underdevelopment persisted for most Nigerians.

The oil boom also fueled corruption, as public officials siphoned off billions of dollars meant for infrastructure development and social services. The lack of accountability and transparency in the management of oil revenues has been a recurring issue in Nigeria’s governance, contributing to the country’s inability to fully harness its resources for national development.

4. Governance and Leadership Deficit

A central factor in Nigeria’s paradox of dashed hopes is the chronic leadership deficit. Over the years, Nigeria has been plagued by poor governance, with successive governments failing to deliver on their promises of development, stability, and prosperity. The country’s political system has often been characterized by corruption, nepotism, and a lack of vision. Rather than serving as custodians of the public good, many leaders have used their positions for personal enrichment and political patronage.

This leadership crisis has manifested in several ways:

Inconsistent Policies: Nigeria has witnessed a pattern of inconsistent and poorly implemented policies, particularly in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This inconsistency has hindered long-term development, as policies are frequently abandoned or reversed when new administrations take power.

Weak Institutions: The country's institutions, which are supposed to safeguard democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, have been weakened by decades of corruption and political interference. The judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and anti-corruption bodies often lack the independence and resources needed to function effectively.

Lack of Accountability: One of the defining features of Nigeria’s governance system is the absence of accountability. Public officials are rarely held accountable for their actions, and corruption scandals often go unpunished. This lack of accountability has fostered a culture of impunity, where political and economic elites operate above the law.

5. The Economic Crisis and Social Inequality

Nigeria’s economic challenges have deepened in recent years, exacerbating social inequality and fueling widespread poverty. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of poverty in the world, with more than 40% of its population living below the poverty line. Unemployment, particularly among the youth, is also a significant concern, leading to social unrest and contributing to insecurity.

The country’s economic crisis is rooted in a combination of factors, including the mismanagement of oil revenues, poor economic planning, and a failure to diversify the economy. The heavy reliance on oil exports has left the economy vulnerable to external shocks, while sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing have stagnated.

Social inequality has also worsened, with a widening gap between the rich and the poor. This inequality is not only economic but also geographical, with the northern region of the country experiencing higher levels of poverty and underdevelopment compared to the south. The lack of access to quality education, healthcare, and basic services has left many Nigerians disillusioned with their government’s ability to meet their needs.

6. Insecurity and the Threat to National Unity

Insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today. The rise of Boko Haram in the northeast, banditry and kidnappings in the northwest, and herder-farmer conflicts in the middle belt have all contributed to a sense of lawlessness and fear across the country. These security threats have not only resulted in the loss of lives and displacement of millions of people but have also strained the country’s fragile unity.

The government’s response to these security challenges has been criticized for being inadequate and reactive. The military and security forces are often overstretched, under-resourced, and plagued by corruption, making it difficult to effectively combat these threats.

7. A Call for National Renewal

As Nigeria reflects on 64 years of independence, it is clear that the country stands at a pivotal moment. While the challenges are significant, there is also a tremendous opportunity for renewal and transformation. To reverse the paradox of dashed hopes and unmet expectations, Nigeria must embark on a new path of governance, leadership, and national unity.

Leadership Accountability: Nigeria needs leaders who are accountable to the people, transparent in their actions, and committed to the public good. The era of self-serving governance must give way to a new generation of leaders who prioritize the welfare of the nation over personal gain.

Economic Diversification: The country must diversify its economy away from oil dependence and invest in other sectors such as agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. This diversification is essential for creating jobs, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable growth.

Strengthening Institutions: The government must invest in building strong institutions that can uphold the rule of law, fight corruption, and ensure that public officials are held accountable. A robust judiciary, independent anti-corruption bodies, and a free press are essential for promoting good governance.

Addressing Insecurity: Nigeria must take a comprehensive approach to addressing insecurity, focusing not only on military solutions but also on the root causes of violence, such as poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion.

8. Conclusion

At 64, Nigeria remains a nation of paradoxes—immense potential but persistent challenges. The hopes and aspirations that greeted independence in 1960 have been tempered by decades of political instability, poor governance, and economic mismanagement. However, the future is not without hope. If Nigeria can confront its challenges head-on and embrace reforms that promote accountability, inclusiveness, and sustainable development, it can still fulfill the dreams of its founding fathers and become the great nation it was meant to be. The time for renewal is now, and the responsibility lies with both the leaders and the people of Nigeria to chart a new course forward.

01/10/2024

Nigeria @64: Leaders Should Change Their Mindset from Looting the Economy to Adding Value to the Economy

At 64 years of independence, Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its history, a juncture where the future of its people and its economy is being shaped by the actions—or inactions—of its leaders. Over the years, Nigeria has been hailed as the “Giant of Africa” due to its vast natural resources, significant human capital, and strategic position within the continent. However, the country continues to grapple with issues such as corruption, economic mismanagement, and leadership failures. These challenges have held Nigeria back from realizing its true potential, plunging the majority of its citizens into poverty and leaving critical sectors in disrepair.

One of the most critical issues confronting Nigeria today is the mindset of its leaders. For too long, leadership in Nigeria has been characterized by the looting of public resources, with little regard for the long-term economic development of the nation. This pattern of governance has resulted in widespread corruption, the misappropriation of funds, and the mismanagement of resources that could have been used to uplift the economy and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians. As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, it is high time for a paradigm shift—a transformation in the mindset of its leaders from looting the economy to adding value to it.

1. The Culture of Looting: A Historical Perspective

Nigeria's history of leadership is marred by a culture of looting and the diversion of public funds for personal gain. This trend has its roots in the colonial era when British colonial rulers exploited the country’s resources for the benefit of the empire. Post-independence, many Nigerian leaders adopted a similar approach, viewing public office as an opportunity for personal enrichment rather than a platform to serve the people.

The military coups and subsequent military regimes that followed Nigeria’s independence further entrenched corruption. Under military rule, public accountability was severely weakened, and large-scale embezzlement of state resources became commonplace. The return to civilian rule in 1999 did little to curb the culture of corruption, as democratic governments continued to be plagued by scandal after scandal involving the looting of public resources.

Today, the consequences of this culture of looting are all too evident. Despite being Africa’s largest economy and one of the world’s top oil producers, Nigeria ranks as one of the poorest nations in terms of per capita income. Critical infrastructure such as roads, schools, hospitals, and power supply remain grossly inadequate, while the unemployment rate continues to rise. The funds that could have been used to build these essential services have instead been funneled into the pockets of a few privileged individuals.

2. The Economic Impact of Looting

The looting of public funds by political elites has had devastating effects on Nigeria’s economy. Corruption undermines the effectiveness of government institutions, weakens investor confidence, and exacerbates inequality. It also stifles the potential for economic growth by diverting resources away from productive sectors that could generate jobs and income for the population.

a. Underinvestment in Key Sectors

A significant consequence of looting is the underinvestment in key sectors that are vital to Nigeria's economic growth, such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. These sectors, if properly funded and managed, have the potential to create millions of jobs, reduce poverty, and drive economic diversification. However, funds that should have been invested in these areas have often been siphoned off for personal use, leaving the country heavily dependent on oil revenues and vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices.

b. Declining Infrastructure

Nigeria's infrastructure deficit is one of the most glaring examples of the damage caused by corruption. The country’s roads, railways, and power supply systems are in dire need of improvement, yet the government has consistently failed to allocate sufficient resources to address these issues. Poor infrastructure hampers economic activity, increases the cost of doing business, and limits access to markets, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

c. High Unemployment and Poverty

The mismanagement of the economy has also contributed to Nigeria's high unemployment rate, which currently stands at over 33%. Youth unemployment is particularly severe, with millions of young Nigerians unable to find work despite possessing the skills and education needed to contribute to the economy. The failure to create jobs and generate sustainable economic growth has left over 40% of the population living below the poverty line.

3. A New Mindset: Adding Value to the Economy

To address these challenges, Nigerian leaders must undergo a fundamental change in mindset. Rather than viewing public office as an opportunity to loot the economy, they must prioritize adding value to the economy by implementing policies that promote sustainable growth, create jobs, and improve the living conditions of the people.

a. Prioritizing Good Governance

The first step toward changing this mindset is prioritizing good governance. This involves adopting policies that promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Leaders must recognize that the wealth of the nation belongs to the people, not to the political elite, and that public resources should be used for the benefit of all citizens.

Leaders must also lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to honesty, integrity, and service. Corrupt practices must be met with swift consequences, and anti-corruption agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should be empowered to investigate and prosecute individuals who engage in the looting of public funds.

b. Investing in Critical Sectors

Nigeria's leaders must prioritize investments in critical sectors that can drive economic growth and improve the livelihoods of citizens. Agriculture, for example, has the potential to become a major driver of the economy, providing jobs for millions of Nigerians and reducing the country’s reliance on oil exports. Similarly, the manufacturing sector has the potential to create value-added products for both domestic consumption and export, generating income and employment.

Education and healthcare are also critical sectors that require significant investment. By improving access to quality education and healthcare, Nigeria can build a more productive workforce, reduce inequality, and promote social mobility.

c. Encouraging Private Sector Investment

In addition to public investment, Nigeria's leaders must create an enabling environment for private sector investment. This includes implementing policies that reduce bureaucratic red tape, improve the ease of doing business, and provide incentives for local and foreign investors. By fostering a climate of economic openness and competition, Nigeria can attract investment in industries such as technology, energy, and infrastructure, which are key drivers of economic development.

d. Promoting Innovation and Technology

Leaders must also recognize the importance of innovation and technology in driving economic growth. By investing in research and development (R&D), promoting digital skills, and supporting start-ups, Nigeria can become a hub for innovation and technological advancement. This will not only create jobs but also position Nigeria as a leader in the global economy, particularly in sectors such as fintech, agritech, and renewable energy.

4. Leadership for the Future: A Call for Visionary and Selfless Leaders

For Nigeria to realize its full potential, it needs visionary leaders who are committed to the long-term development of the nation. Such leaders must be selfless, prioritizing the welfare of the people over personal gain. They must have the foresight to implement policies that promote sustainable economic growth, while also addressing the immediate needs of the population.

Visionary leaders must also embrace inclusivity, ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or background, have a stake in the country’s future. This includes promoting social justice, reducing inequality, and fostering unity and cohesion.

5. Conclusion: A New Chapter for Nigeria

At 64 years of independence, Nigeria is at a turning point. The time has come for a new chapter in the country’s history, one in which leaders change their mindset from looting the economy to adding value to it. This requires a commitment to good governance, investment in critical sectors, and the promotion of innovation and private sector growth.

The journey toward economic development and prosperity will not be easy, but with visionary leadership and a collective effort from all Nigerians, the country can achieve its potential and emerge as a true giant of Africa. The future of Nigeria rests on the choices its leaders make today. By adopting a mindset of service and value creation, they can build a nation that provides opportunities for all its citizens and sets a positive example for the rest of the continent.