Editorial

Nigeria At 52, Greater Future In Sight

Published

13 years ago

October 1, 2012

On October 1st, 1960, exactly 52 years ago, Nigeria became
an independent nation-state after nearly a century of indirect and direct
British Colonial rule. We recall with uncommon pride and nostalgia that
historic moment when, the union Jack was lowered for a sovereign Nigeria’s
Green white Green national flag.

We salute the resolve, doggedness and resilience of the
founding fathers in the invaluable nationalistic quest for self-rule and congratulate
the government and people of Nigeria for defending the unity of the country in
the past 52 years.

Indeed, for a nation of more than 155,215,573 people, by
2011 estimates, more than eight major ethnic groups and over 150 others and
about 200 different languages, diverse cultures, multiplicity of religions, divergent
hopes and fears, that Nigeria still remains one indivisible political,
socio-economic and geographical entity is worth celebrating.

As we celebrate, however, it becomes even more instructive
to venture a deliberate introspection of the past, if for nothing else, to
appraise how far and well the journey of nationhood to socio-economic
independence has been. Unfortunately, such self-evaluation, without doubt,
presents a mixed bag of wasted resources, failed leadership, poor fiscal
planning, infrastructural decay, increasing insecurity, political intolerance,
ethno-religious extremism and indeed abject poverty.

From a vibrant agro-based economy in pre-independence
Nigeria, the country is today a molothic economy, dependent primarily on oil,
which earnings do not reflect the infrastructural decay, lack of employment,
fall in educational standards, poor public health institutions, death-traps
called Federal roads and indeed successive maladministration.

Since, according to the legendary English Philosopher John
Stuart Mill (1806-73) “the worth of a state, in the long run, is the worth of
the individuals composing it,” it becomes even more imperative to measure our
52 years of nationhood by the quality of life of the ordinary Nigerian to whom
nationhood ought to mean more than mere political independence. In this regard,
that more than 70 per cent of the population still live below the poverty line
cannot excite celebration of any kind.

However, poverty cannot also be a justification for the orgy
of terror-based insurgency in parts of the North, neither should it be excuse
for the rise in criminal activities across the nation, all of which tend to
raise question about the people’s readiness to defend the nation’s unity.

Unfortunately, the scenario is being exploited by selfish
politicians to preach division instead of unity, fear instead of hope and
insurgency rather than tolerance. These, inadvertently tend to give credence to
the prediction that Nigeria could breakup by 2015, using the next electoral
process as a necessary platform to affirm the dooms day.

The Tide believes in the indivisibility, unity and mutual
co-existence of the various peoples of Nigeria, just as we believe in the
possibility of the transformation of the country, in spite of the enormous
challenges we face as a nation. We note that what Nigeria is today suffering is
accumulated dividends of bad governance, unbridled corruption, planlessness on
the part of successive administrations, and deliberate disobedience of the
constitution and other laws of the land, all of which cannot be wished away
over night.

What is required therefore, is for the leadership to remain
focused, dedicated and patriotic in attempts to address, in a lasting manner,
the myriad of national problems that directly touch the ordinary Nigerian. The
citizenry on their part must develop a positive integer in their expectations
of government and not be fooled by the growing blackmail that any single
administration can, with a magic wand, wave away all their worries.

This is why The Tide thinks that attempt by sections of the
country to encumber the President Jonathan administration with the political
pressure to right all wrongs at a single go, smarks of avoidable incitement of
the citizenry against the administration. The right way forward, is not to
politicize every national concern for the sole purpose of scoring cheap
political points.

We commend the wisdom and rare display of maturity thusfar
demonstrated by President Jonathan in extricating himself from the debate over
his political future in 2015 and his commitment to putting the nation together
in spite of the unprecedented political, security and religious challenges.

The Tide is pleased with the modest success being made in
national governance especially in summoning the necessary political will to
probe the oil subsidy regime, approval of national minimum wage for the civil
servant, improved remuneration for university teachers, special pay for doctors
and health sector workers, a conducive political atmosphere for free speech,
implementation of the 35 per cent affirmative action for women integration, and
reforms in the power sector resulting in the improvement in electricity
generation into the national grid from 2,200 MW in 2010 to 4,400mw this year,
and which accounts for the relatively stable electricity supply.

It is however sad that Nigeria’s power sector still cannot
benefit sufficiently, from the massive interventionist efforts being made by
variousstates of the federation in the area of power generation on account of
constitutional inhibitions, grounded on the unitary approach to addressing
national development.

To put Nigeria on the path of unimpeded development
therefore, the National Assembly and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians must
work towards a comprehensive review of the nation’s constitution. And quickly
too.

Such reviews would be meaningless if the various sections of
the country fail to appreciate the propriety of peaceful co-existence and agree
to respect and understand that our ephemeral differences are nothing compared
to the lot that unites us as a people and resolve to live in peace and unity in
spite of our diversity. The near frequent appeal to sectionalism, tribalism,
religion, ethnicism and class often actuated by selfish political passion and consideration can only seek to
divide us, not unite us!

This is where the National Assembly must rise up to the
challenge of not only making proactive laws, but also investing meaningfully in
regular sensitisation and education of their constituents on the merits of
Nigerian unity. To achieve that, the legislature must partner with the
executive and indeed judiciary to prevent the near frequent heating-up of the
polity by being statesmanly in exercise of their oversight functions on other
arms of government.

Rather than become a ready tool to the political opposition
to whom their seems to be no single common ground for national cohesion, the
National Assembly would do well to consider itself as an ample part of
governance at the highest level, and face, with a sense of patriotism and
statesmanship the business of making vital laws needed to guarantee the growth
and speedy development of the country.

One such is the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) which
protracted delay can no longer be supported, just as the avoidable bickerings
over comprehensive review of the constitution, not just a distraction but a
costly mistake that does none any good.

As we celebrate this year’s independence anniversary,
therefore, government, the legislature, the judiciary, states and local
governments and indeed all well-meaning stakeholders of the Nigerian project,
must resolve to work in synergy towards sourcing solutions to the nation’s
challenges and not blame it all on the serving president and his team.

The Tide believes that every people deserves the leadership
they get and must work together for common good and a better future. Most
importantly, we most understand that nearly all developed nations of today,
confronted similar, if not more difficult challenges before attaining the now
enviable noble heights. With love for country, hardwork and prayers, The Tide
sees a brighter and greater Nigeria that all will be proud of. This should be
our target not despair.

Editorial

No To Political Office Holders’ Salary Hike

Published

2 days ago

September 22, 2025

Uchechukwu Okwum

Nigeria’s Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has unveiled a gratuitous proposal to increase the salaries of political and public office holders in the country. This plan seeks to fatten the pay packets of the president, vice-president, governors, deputy governors, and members of the National and State Assemblies. At a time when the nation is struggling to steady its economy, the suggestion that political leaders should be rewarded with more money is not only misplaced but insulting to the sensibilities of the ordinary Nigerian.

What makes the proposal even more opprobrious is the dire economic condition under which citizens currently live. The cost of living crisis has worsened, inflation has eroded the purchasing power of workers, and the naira continues to tumble against foreign currencies. The majority of Nigerians are living hand to mouth, with many unable to afford basic foodstuffs, medical care, and education. Against this backdrop, political office holders, who already enjoy obscene allowances, perks, and privileges, should not even contemplate a salary increase.

It is, therefore, not surprising that the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has stepped in to challenge this development. SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the RMAFC to halt the implementation of this salary increment. This resolute move represents a voice of reason and accountability at a time when public anger against political insensitivity is palpable. The group is rightly insisting that the law must serve as a bulwark against impunity.

According to a statement issued by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the commission has been dragged before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Although a hearing date remains unconfirmed, the momentous step of seeking judicial redress reflects a determination to hold those in power accountable. SERAP has once again positioned itself as a guardian of public interest by challenging an elite-centric policy.

The case, registered as suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1834/2025, specifically asks the court to determine “whether RMAFC’s proposed salary hike for the president, vice-president, governors and their deputies, and lawmakers in Nigeria is not unlawful, unconstitutional and inconsistent with the rule of law.” This formidable question goes to the very heart of democratic governance: can those entrusted with public resources decide their own pay rises without violating the constitution and moral order?

In its pleadings, SERAP argues that the proposed hike runs foul of both the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and the RMAFC Act. By seeking a judicial declaration that such a move is unlawful, unconstitutional, and inconsistent with the rule of law, the group has placed a spotlight on the tension between self-serving leadership and constitutionalism. To trivialise such an issue would be harum-scarum, for the constitution remains the supreme authority guiding governance.

We wholeheartedly commend SERAP for standing firm, while we roundly condemn RMAFC’s selfish proposal. Political office should never be an avenue for financial aggrandisement. Since our leaders often pontificate sacrifice to citizens, urging them to tighten their belts in the face of economic turbulence, the same leaders must embody sacrifice themselves. Anything short of this amounts to double standards and betrayal of trust.

The Nigerian economy is not buoyant enough to shoulder the additional cost of a salary increase for political leaders. Already, lawmakers and executives enjoy allowances that are grossly disproportionate to the national average income. These earnings are sufficient not only for their needs but also their unchecked greed. To even consider further increments under present circumstances is egregious, a slap in the face of ordinary workers whose minimum wage remains grossly insufficient.

Resources earmarked for such frivolities should instead be channelled towards alleviating the suffering of citizens and improving the nation’s productive capacity. According to United Nations statistics, about 62.9 per cent of Nigerians were living in multidimensional poverty in 2021, compared to 53.7 per cent in 2017. Similarly, nearly 30.9 per cent of the population lives below the international poverty line of US$2.15 per day. These figures paint a stark picture: Nigeria is a poor country by all measurable standards, and any extra naira diverted to elite pockets deepens this misery.

Besides, the timing of this proposal could not be more inappropriate. At a period when unemployment is soaring, inflation is crippling households, and insecurity continues to devastate communities, the RMAFC has chosen to pursue elite enrichment. It is widely known that Nigeria’s economy is in a parlous state, and public resources should be conserved and wisely invested. Political leaders must show prudence, not profligacy.

Another critical dimension is the national debt profile. According to the Debt Management Office, Nigeria’s total public debt as of March 2025 stood at a staggering N149.39 trillion. External debt obligations also remain heavy, with about US$43 billion outstanding by September 2024. In such a climate of debt-servicing and borrowing to fund budgets, it is irresponsible for political leaders to even table the idea of inflating their salaries further. Debt repayment, not self-reward, should occupy their minds.

This ignoble proposal is insensitive, unnecessary, and profoundly reckless. It should be discarded without further delay. Public office is a trust, not an entitlement to wealth accumulation. Nigerians deserve leaders who will share in their suffering, lead by example, and prioritise the common good over self-indulgence. Anything less represents betrayal of the social contract and undermines the fragile democracy we are striving to build.

Editorial

No To Political Office Holders’ Salary Hike

Published

2 days ago

September 22, 2025

The Tide

Editorial

Rivers’ Retirees: Matters Arising

Published

2 weeks ago

September 8, 2025

The Tide

The Rivers State Government deserves commendation for the manner in which it conducted the last biometric exercise for pensioners in the state. For the first time in many years, the verification process was not only efficient but also humane, a development that has brought relief to a category of citizens that often bears the brunt of neglect.

Unlike previous verification exercises that left pensioners exhausted and unattended, the latest exercise set a refreshing precedent. Retirees were given proper and sumptuous meals, and in addition, the government paid the sum of N10,000 into their accounts to cushion their transportation costs. Such gestures go a long way in demonstrating that those who had laboured for the state are not forgotten in their twilight years.

The measure was particularly necessary given that some pensioners had to travel long distances to reach their verification centres. For elderly men and women, such journeys come with physical and financial strain. By recognising these realities and easing the burden, the government has shown that pensioners deserve dignity, not disdain.

Beyond this laudable act of consideration, the authorities must reflect on the very structure of pension verification. The era of compelling retirees to be physically present for routine verification should be reconsidered. With digital tools and innovation, the government can adopt systems that capture and confirm data without the stress of physical assembly. This is crucial for pensioners residing in other states or even abroad.

While we acknowledge the importance of verification in cleaning up pension records, we cannot ignore the darker side of the matter. It is regrettable that some allowances continue to be paid to deceased pensioners, with relatives fraudulently collecting the funds. The latest biometrics, thankfully, exposed some of these sharp practices. The exercise, therefore, is not only about order but also about justice.

We urge families of deceased pensioners to be patriotic enough to inform the government of the deaths of their loved ones. It is deeply shameful that in some instances, individuals attempted to impersonate late pensioners during the biometrics. Such behaviour undermines the spirit of honesty and deprives genuine retirees of their due entitlements.

The exercise also revealed another important area of concern: the health of pensioners. It is reassuring to learn that the state government has reportedly promised to take over the medical treatment of some retirees who arrived for the biometrics in critical condition. This is a step in the right direction. Elderly citizens, after years of service, should have access to special health care facilities in the state. Setting aside hospitals or designated centres for the aged is not just desirable but necessary.

While pension payments in Rivers State have remained consistent, attention must now be directed towards gratuities. Senior citizens deserve to receive their retirement benefits without the bureaucratic hitches that have often marred the process. After years of loyal service, nothing is more demoralising than to see retirees languish for want of their gratuities. Every worker, as Scripture reminds us, is worthy of his wage.

Retirement, in any civilised society, should not be reduced to a sentence of suffering. In dealing with pensioners, government must consistently wear a human face. The humane manner displayed during this verification exercise should not be a one-off. It must become the norm in all dealings with retirees. Measures must continually be put in place to ensure that they do not feel abandoned by the state they served.

One welcome innovation has already been introduced. The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has altered the method of gratuity payment. Pensioners now receive their monies directly into their bank accounts, eliminating the cheque-based system that for years served as fertile ground for corruption. This reform is both pragmatic and forward-looking. Similarly, the implementation of the N32,000 pension harmonisation is also commendable.

Direct payments gratuities ensure transparency and drastically reduce the possibility of diversion of funds. More importantly, they restore confidence in the system and assure pensioners that their entitlements will reach them without interference. In this way, the government has not only safeguarded the process but also upheld the principle of accountability.

Seamless gratuity payment has a ripple effect on the workforce as a whole. When workers are confident that retirement will not plunge them into hardship, the temptation to falsify age in order to remain in service is eliminated. Such reforms, therefore, enhance efficiency, honesty, and productivity in the public service.

In sum, the Rivers State Government has struck a refreshing chord in its handling of pension verification. It has shown empathy, innovation, and accountability. However, the momentum must be sustained, and the focus must shift towards modernising verification methods and prioritising retirees’ welfare in health, gratuity, and dignity.

When retirees are treated with compassion and fairness, the message to those still in service is clear: faithful service to the state will not go unrewarded. The humane verification exercise, though a single event, offers a hopeful glimpse of what governance can look like when people, especially the elderly, are placed at the heart of policy.