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‘Insecurity Responsible For Economic Instability In Nigeria’
A cleric and the Chief Imam, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Dr. Abdulhakeem Akanni has attributed the rising security threats in Nigeria as factors responsible for economy instability in the country.
He also noted that kidnappings and herdsmen-farmers clashes across the country has prevented farmers to work on their farmlands, thereby forcing Nigerians to buy the few available farm produce at high rate.
Akanni, who spoke in Abeokuta, yesterday at the 14th Annual lecture of The Muslim Congress (TMC), Ogun State chapter, however, blamed Nigerians for the precarious situation.
He stressed that government’s failure to provide good roads, stable electricity, unbiased judicial system, payment of pension and gratuities, employment generation and equity in the sharing formula has forced many Nigerians to seek alternative means of sustainability.
Delivering his lecture on the topic: “Security and Economic Stability: Imperative for good governance in Nigeria”, the Islamic scholar equally blamed the citizens for their insincerity and disobedience to rule of law.
“You will observe that the precarious situation we found ourselves in this country got to this stage as a result of what both leaders and followers have done. We are all stakeholders in this and we all contributed into what this nation is today by our nefarious activities.
“We blame government officials for unemployment, bad roads, non-provision of electricity, non-payment of gratuities, non-payment of pension, non-remittance of cooperative deductions, lack of facilities in our hospitals and schools, but as Nigerians too, we also contributed to some of these problems.
“Some Nigerians support smugglers, some cheat in exams, parents enrol their children in special centres to participate in exam malpractices, teachers write answers on chalkboard for students during examinations, religious leaders don’t speak the truth anymore. These are the things that have brought our country to this precarious situation.
“For us to move Nigeria forward we need attitudinal change and for the leaders, they should be accountable to the masses and do self-assessment of their performance.
“There is too much bloodshed in the country. There is injustice in our VAT system. The federal government should stop robbing some regions to satisfy the interest of other regions. Let us stop our corrupt practices and seek the face of God,” the scholar stated
Speaking on the theme of the lecture: “Insecurity and National Unity: The Nation on trial”, Ustadh Muhammad Jamiu Tirimidhi Akano maintained that, the political instability, insecurity, and banditry were caused by tribal and religious crisis.
Akano, who is the Chairman, Committee of Experts, Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, expressed disappointment in Nigeria political leaders, saying in spite of their religiosity, adherents have failed the nation.
He called on Nigerians to demonstrate unconditional love for one another, irrespective of religion, tribe, race and position.
According to him, merit in national appointment as against states and ethnic based nomination and inclusion of religious and moral instruction in school curriculum and constitution would return the country to the path of glory.
In his welcome address, the Waali of the Ogun State chapter of TMC, Dr. Ogunkoya Ibrahim maintained that, the theme for the lecture centred on finding the right mix of governance, leadership and political stability with particular reference to the roles of religious and political leaders.
He said the wave of overlapping security crises and political discordances rocking the nation, especially at a time the country was wallowing in the throes of economic downturn has necessitated the group to contribute its quota to the development of the country.
He expressed bitterness that, Nigeria which has once provided continental leadership in the economic sphere and in international diplomacy, including military and political leadership, was now groping in the dark, and struggling to find its feet.
Ogunkoya noted further that, the abject lack of commitment, by both the leaders and the citizens, to a united, stable, developed and prosperous Nigeria has put the country on the brink of collapse, as hard-line separatists and ethnic jingoists are springing up with agitations for separation and outright balkanization of the country.
“However, in spite of these precarious circumstances, we believe there is hope for a better tomorrow as every cloud has its silver lining. Change is indeed possible. This independence anniversary offers a veritable opportunity for us to begin a sincere process of national healing.
“First, there must be a top-down approach to a mental and moral reorientation. From the politician in the office, the faith leader in the sanctuary, to the common man on the street, we must all come to the realization that it is the wish of the Almighty Allah (SWT) that we dwell in this geographic expression called Nigeria as a people of an undivided nation and there is no other place we can rightfully call our own.
“Therefore, a good starting point for a change towards national integration is for us to disabuse ourselves of the out-dated perception of seeing ourselves as being from a part of the country before recognizing that we are Nigerians. As such, all hands must be on deck to ensure we take a clean break from our ugly past and chart a new beginning for our political and economic future”, he submitted.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
The new Commissioner of Police Eastern, Ports Command, Mr Tijani Fatai has promised to ensure a crime- free ports operations in the zone.
He said effective policing will be mounted across the ports in the zone in tackling the high rate of community unrest, activities of port rats and other social vices.
Fatai while speaking to newsmen shortly after taking over as the 17th commissioner said he wants to be remembered as a peace maker during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in the Eastern Ports Command.
According to him,’’the community policing is the sure way of addressing most conflicts and other social vices bedeviling our society today and I will explore it to its fullest” .
The Commissioner also assured officers of the rank and file of improved welfare whoch he described as a cardinal objective of the present efforts of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
He said,” the Inspector General of Police has sent me to assure you all of welfare, promotions as and when due,no officers particular rank and file will be left behind in the coming months.
Fatai before his recent posting was an operational officer,who spent most of his years with the Police Mobile Force (PMF) where he served as Unit Commander (UC) and Commander, PMF.
Before his redeployment as a Commissioner of Police,(CP), he was the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, DCP, Operations, Lagos State Command.
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