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Editorial

Declaring National Emergency In Education

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If any proof was needed about the bleak future that has been facing Nigeria’s education system in the past two decades, the mass failures that have continued to be recorded in the West African School Certificate Examinations (WASCE) and other allied public exams in the past three years are concrete enough. In 2008, for instance, out of the 1,369,142 candidates that sat for the WASCE, only 188,422 or 13.76 per cent passed with five credits, including English Language and Mathematics. That means that about 83 per cent of the candidates failed to meet the minimum requirement for admission into the nation’s universities.

Again, in 2009, no significant improvement was recorded. Of the 1,373,009 candidates that sat for the exams, only 25.99 per cent or 356,981 candidates obtained credit in English Language, Mathematics and three other subjects. Rather than improve in 2010, the number of candidates that obtained credit in English Language, Mathematics and three other subjects dropped or 24.94 per cent on 337,071 candidates.

Irked by this inglorious situation, President Goodluck Jonathan convened the just concluded two-day summit on the ailing sector. According to him, “we had a situation where our educational sector no longer produces the kind of people we expect. The rate of failure is so alarming and we need to ask, what is happening?”

If the picture of secondary level of education is grim, university education in Nigeria is even grimmer. The very concept of ‘university’ connotes universality. There have, however, been grave doubts as to how much universality we still have in our universities. What is implied here is universality of thought, of ideas, outlook and composition. However, a peep into the average Nigerian university clearly does not suggest the cosmopolitan atmosphere which permeated the older tertiary institutions in the 1950’s, 60’s, and 70’s.

For example, one of the contributory factors to the emasculation of the Nigerian university is the continuously weak national currency that has created a poor remuneration package that can hardly attract academics from across national frontiers. There is also the debilitating problem of funding. Surely, poor funding of the education sector has resulted in decaying infrastructural base at all levels of the educational system. In some cases, there is total absence of teaching aide, laboratories, and modern libraries.

The quality of education that the teachers themselves need in order to deliver quality education to pupils and students in schools and institutions of learning, need further examination. Just as President Jonathan pointed out that schools existed in the past with hardly a graduate teacher but still people read and passed their examinations with alphas. Even where excellent results are recorded these days, it is sometimes suspect and often attributed to exam malpractice because given the myriad of problems faced by students, teachers and the entire education system, dismal performances such are being recorded now are only to be expected. A school system that hardly runs without incessant disruptions is bound to produce students whose learning and assimilation sequence has been distorted and disrupted time and again.

With growing cases of shabby treatment meted out to teachers by the government, teachers themselves have also lost every sense of commitment and passion for the once-prized teaching profession. These days, many teachers are also petty traders, using the teaching profession only as a camouflage. Thus, they have little or no time for their students. This contrasts sharply with the days of yore when teachers took their profession seriously because government took teachers seriously.

The absence of school supervision is another reason for the unending decay in the sector. In the hair days of educational development in Nigeria, school inspectors played a major role in the maintenance of discipline among school teachers. Teachers lesson notes and students work books were examined. The school environment was inspected for neatness while teachers and students were also observed in class. These measures were aimed at instilling discipline and maintaining a high level of academic standard. Sanctions were imposed through punitive transfers, demotion, expulsion and outright sack. The rules which were strictly enforced created a pervading spirit of competition among students, teachers and schools, as the case may be, and resulted in the high academic standard and discipline that were recorded.

It is indeed public knowledge that the education sector has been on a progressive decline in the past two decades.   

It is against this backdrop that The Tide views the mass failures as an immediate outward manifestation of a protracted disease that has plagued the education system in Nigeria. Even though a two-day summit may be too short to properly diagnose and proffer remedies for the problems of this key sector, it has, at least, sensitized the various stakeholders on the need to begin proactive measures to address the situation.

One way forward is for the Federal Government to immediately declare a national emergency in the sector. Perhaps, a cue can be taken from the Rivers State Government where such summit at the beginning of the present administration resulted in the ongoing revolution in the education sector in the state. The Rivers State Government is already on its way to replacing all existing school infrastructure. This is after it took over the funding of primary education from the local government authorities. There is also massive training and retraining of teachers. In addition to making primary education tuition free the Rivers state government has also gone ahead to launch free school uniforms and books for pupils in all public schools.

The Tide urges the Federal Government to take the bold step of declaring a state of emergency in the education sector as a sure way of realizing the goals of the new road map announced by President Jonathan, last Thursday.

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Editorial

HIV, Transiting From Donor Dependence

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The initial announcement by United States President, Donald Trump, to cut funding for international
HIV/AIDS initiatives sent shockwaves through the global health community. In Nigeria, a country facing a significant HIV/AIDS burden, the potential consequences were dire. However, the subsequent waiver granted by the administration has provided a lifeline for the millions of Nigerians who rely on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) for their treatment and support.
PEPFAR has been an important partner in Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has committed more than $7.8 billion to the country, catering to approximately 90 per cent of HIV treatment requirements. With this funding, Nigeria has been able to enhance its HIV prevention, treatment and support services and has witnessed a reduction in HIV/AIDS deaths.
The waiver granted by the Trump administration guarantees that PEPFAR’s life-saving medicines and medical services will continue to reach the needy. Antiretrovirals (ARVs) are the most common type of medicine used to treat HIV and reduce the virus’ spread. Through the provision of ARVs, PEPFAR helps prevent the spread of HIV and enhances the quality of life of those with the condition.
Although Nigeria was recently exempted from the requirement, the signs are evident: the country has to graduate from dependence on donor funds for its HIV/AIDS control programmes. Over the years, partners including the U.S. government have been central to the provision of treatment to people living with the virus. However, it is time for Nigeria to own its national response to HIV/AIDS.
Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS burden remains critical, accounting for 10 per cent of the global total. In 2023 alone, there were 75,000 new infections and 45,000 HIV-related deaths. The battle against Mother-to-Child Transmission remains challenging, with only 35 per cent of the target 75 per cent being met. Nearly 1.7 million Nigerian children have been orphaned due to HIV. Vulnerable populations, especially women and children, continue to disproportionately suffer.
To transition away from donor dependence, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, the country must increase its domestic financing for HIV/AIDS programmes. This can be accomplished through innovative funding mechanisms, such as leveraging public-private partnerships and exploring local revenue sources. Secondly, the government needs to strengthen its healthcare system to ensure equitable access to testing, treatment, and care. This involves expanding access to antiretroviral drugs, investing in community-based models, and addressing the stigma associated with HIV.
Thirdly, Nigeria must prioritise prevention efforts. This entails promoting condom use, providing comprehensive sexual education, and increasing awareness about the risks and modes of transmission. By focusing on prevention, the country can decrease the incidence of HIV infections and ultimately lessen the burden on its healthcare system.
Finally, Nigeria should develop a sustainable human resource strategy for its HIV/AIDS response. This involves training and equipping healthcare workers, engaging community volunteers, and empowering people living with HIV to advocate for their rights. A well-trained workforce is essential for delivering high-quality services and ensuring the long-term success of the response.
The transition beyond donor dependence is a complex but necessary journey for the country. By increasing domestic financing, strengthening healthcare systems, prioritising prevention, and investing in its human resources, the country can create a sustainable and effective response to HIV/AIDS. Also, the government should consider alternative funding mechanisms, such as increased domestic funding, public-private partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. The time to act is now, for the well-being of present and future generations.
Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has made momentous strides in combating HIV/AIDS, including expanding access to testing, treatment, and education. However, challenges persist, hindering the effectiveness of these efforts.
One major obstacle is limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. This impedes timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the likelihood of optimal outcomes for those living with HIV. Additionally, stigma surrounding the disease remains a formidable barrier, preventing individuals from seeking testing and care. Inadequate awareness campaigns further contribute to low testing rates and delayed diagnosis.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted action by the government and stakeholders. Allocation of adequate funding is crucial to expand healthcare infrastructure and ensure the availability of essential services. Moreover, targeted interventions to reduce stigma and promote awareness are vital for increasing testing and early detection.
Collaboration between civil society organisations and grassroots movements is also essential for advocating for protection of HIV funding. Advocacy campaigns can mobilise public support and pressure lawmakers to prioritise the fight against HIV/AIDS. By addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable funding, Nigeria can depend less on donor countries, drastically reduce HIV transmission, and provide the necessary care to those affected by the disease.

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Editorial

Israel-Gaza War: Sustaining The Ceasefire 

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The recent agreement between Israel and Hamas to cease hostilities marks a significant and much-anticipated step toward peace in a conflict that has devastated countless lives and infrastructure in Gaza. The ongoing violence, which has persisted for over 460 days, has yielded catastrophic human casualties and an acute humanitarian crisis. The need for a sustainable peace deal has never been more urgent, and this temporary ceasefire presents an opportunity for all stakeholders to work diligently towards a lasting resolution.
Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the conflict saw a dramatic escalation. This attack was described as one of the deadliest in Israel’s history, resulting in the deaths of 1,210 individuals, primarily civilians. In addition to the loss of life, the assault led to the abduction of 251 individuals, with 94 still held hostage in Gaza, as Israeli military sources reported that 34 of them are believed to be deceased. In response, Israel’s military operations have wreaked havoc on Gaza, claiming the lives of approximately 46,788 people, most of whom are reported to be civilians.
Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have facilitated a ceasefire agreement that comprises multiple critical components. Most importantly, it calls for a halt to the violence, providing a much-needed respite for the people of Gaza. The deal also outlines the release of hostages held by Hamas and prisoners detained by Israel. Furthermore, it aims to facilitate the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, contingent on their viability following the extensive destruction.
While this ceasefire is a welcome development, it is essential for all involved parties to remain committed to a permanent peace agreement. The underlying issues that led to the conflict must be addressed to prevent future escalations and to foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. As the world watches, the hope is that this temporary cessation of hostilities can pave the way for a more peaceful and stable future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The peace deal will happen in stages, starting with a six-week period for limited prisoner exchanges, partial Israeli troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid access. Hamas has released four Israeli soldiers for over 1000 Palestinians, with more releases to come. Israel will reduce troops in Gaza and open the Rafah crossing a week later, with less troop presence in the Philadelphi Corridor and complete withdrawal by the 50th day. The next two phases will depend on how both sides act during the first phase.
Therefore, it is unacceptable for any party to attack the other during a ceasefire. Reports indicate that after a ceasefire was announced, Israel bombed Gaza, killing at least 75 people and injuring many others. This violence during a ceasefire is unacceptable. While Hamas did initiate the conflict by invading Israel, Israel’s response has been far too severe, causing massive destruction in Gaza. The situation has resulted in unprecedented loss of life and devastation in the region.
Gaza has been completely destroyed, and further risks to the truce may create the belief that Israel aims to eliminate Palestinians like Hitler did with the Jews. Israel’s aggressive actions have lost them international support. Young people in the United States and Europe are now openly supporting Palestinians. With a truce in place, hostilities should cease and all parties must honour their agreements.
Hamas, seeing itself as a resistance force, needs to change its tactics for lasting peace. Their attacks on Israel have caused great suffering for innocent people in Gaza and destroyed much of the area’s infrastructure, leading to many lost lives. Both Israel and Hamas must commit to peace and avoid restarting the conflict. Attacking Israeli civilians or soldiers will only provoke strong retaliation from the Jewish State, harming those Hamas aims to protect.
Hamas, like the defunct Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO), should accept peace and recognise Israel’s right to coexist, focusing on development and prosperity for Gaza. Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza and North Samaria on August 15, 2005, dismantling settlements and troops after an agreement with Egypt. Hamas should stop teaching hate and instead use the opportunities from this withdrawal to help the people rather than build terror infrastructure. If West Bank control is an issue, Jordan might be discussed as a potential administrator.
Should Israel decide to withdraw completely from the West Bank, it is imperative that the Palestinians residing in that region recognise their responsibility to foster a peaceful environment, similarly to how Jordan maintains a harmonious relationship with Israel. To achieve this, the Palestinian people must actively commit to rejecting violence in all its forms and manifestations.
They must understand that genuine peace is not merely the absence of conflict but requires a steadfast dedication to non-violence, coexistence, and constructive dialogue. The era of bloodshed in the area must come to an end, giving way to a future where peace can truly flourish in the West Bank, benefiting all inhabitants and paving the way for a more stable and prosperous region.
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Editorial

No To Hike In Telecom Tariffs

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Nigerians are outraged by the Federal Government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, with organised labour threatening to mobilise workers to boycott telecom services. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have described the upcoming tariff as outrageous, lamenting that it will worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers and the masses.
Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the hike, stating that it was ill-timed and did not take into consideration the struggles of Nigerians. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticised the review, calling it an illegal, unconstitutional, and oppressive policy that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerians. It is a difficult moment for the industry.
Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent increase in tariffs for telecom operators last Monday, instead of the 100 per cent raise that operators had requested. This decision quickly angered the consumers’ association, which criticised the government’s approval as not only punitive but also insensitive.
We wholeheartedly agree with the stance of labour and other groups on this very sensitive matter. We unequivocally condemn the 50 per cent increase in telecom tariffs. Though telecom operators cite higher operational costs and inflation as reasons for the hike, the timing and impact raise serious concerns in the current economic situation. It is a blatant attack on the well-being of the Nigerian worker and a betrayal of the people to corporate interests.
Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. However, the average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of their salary, a cost that is unsustainable.
This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
The questions are: When will the government stand up for the citizens it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the Executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man finally heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria? We urge the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to review the implementation of this ill-advised increase.
It is difficult to understand the state of mind of the managers of the nation’s economy. Sadly, these managers have alienated themselves from the reality of today. How can a government approve a 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecom services when even the N70,000 minimum wage has been eroded by inflation, electricity tariff hikes, exorbitant fuel costs, transportation, and other social services?
Even if there is a need for an increase, why does it have to be 50 per cent? If, after dialogue, it is agreed that a raise is necessary, we should all consider a more reasonable increase rather than the 50 per cent hike. Fifty per cent is excessive and will only worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers, placing a heavier burden and more suffering on them and the general population.
The recognition of telecommunication services as essential components of modern society cannot be overstated. In an era characterised by rapid digital transformation, these services are fundamental not only for personal communication but also for facilitating broader socio-economic engagement. The proposed tariffs increase in the telecom sector raises critical concerns regarding equitable access to vital services that support communication, education, healthcare, and commerce.
In a democracy, the people should be the central focus of all government actions and policies. Every decision should aim to improve their quality of life. This plan must be carefully scrutinised with the welfare of citizens in mind. An increase in telecom tariffs will negatively impact many Nigerians, as the internet has become an essential tool for business, communication, and daily activities.
The Tide calls for the immediate suspension of the 50 per cent hike in tariffs. Instead, we recommend a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10 per cent, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in the country. We also demand that the NCC engages in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.

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