Editorial

Beyond Drop In HIV/AIDS Cases

Published

7 years ago

March 24, 2019

President Muhammadu Buhari on March 14, 2019, unveiled the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey, which indicated that the number of persons living with HIV/AIDS in the country has dropped from 3.2 million to 1.9 million, thereby sliding lower to the fourth position globally from its second position in previous years.
The survey, launched by the Federal Government in June, 2018, and co-funded by the United States Government, The Global Fund and other critical stakeholders in the fight against the scourge, also indicated that the number of women is double the number of men living with the virus, just as it regrettably revealed that while Akwa Ibom beat Rivers as the state with the highest prevalence rate, the North has lower HIV/AIDS burden than the South.
Figures from the 2018 survey show that the states with the highest prevalence rate are Akwa Ibom 5.5%, Benue 5.3%, Rivers 3.8%, Taraba 2.9%, Anambra 2.4% and Abia 2.1% while the states with the lowest prevalence rate include Bauchi 0.5%, Zamfara 0.5%, Sokoto 0.4%, Yobe 0.4%, Jigawa 0.3% and Katsina 0.3%. This is a significant drop from the 2015 figure, where Rivers topped the chart of HIV//AIDS prevalence states with 15.5%, followed by Taraba 10.5%, Kaduna 9.2%, Nasarawa 8.1%, FCT 7.5%, Akwa Ibom 6.5%, Sokoto 6.4%, Oyo 5.6%, Benue 5.6%, Yobe 5.3%, Cross River 4.4%, Ondo 4.3% and Gombe 3.4% in that order.
While urging stakeholders not to relent in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but to increase the momentum in efforts to end the pandemic ahead of 2030, Buhari said the people should not celebrate yet, as almost a million Nigerians living with HIV are currently not on treatment. The president said that, going forward, a more coordinated and funded national response was needed to achieve epidemic control and end HIV in Nigeria, while directing the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the Federal Ministry of Health to undertake detailed consultations and consensus-building with key sectoral ministries, the legislature, governors of high-prevalence states, development partners and civil society organisations to chart a new path and build on the results of the survey.
In 2017, 3.2 million people were living with HIV/AIDS, with 2.8% adult HIV prevalence rate, 210,000 new HIV infections, 150,000 AIDS-related deaths, 34% adults on antiretroviral treatment, and 26% children on antiretroviral treatment. However, in 2014, almost 3.4 million Nigerians were living with HIV/AIDS, with recorded AIDS-related deaths of 174,300 and a national prevalence rate of 3.0%.
The Tide is particularly aware that sentinel survey since 1991 has shown a mixed bag in the prevalence rates in Nigeria. For instance, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research and NACA published a report indicating that in 1991, the prevalence rate was 1.8%, with 3.8% in 1993, 4.5% in 1996, 5.4% in 1999, and a peak of 5.8% in 2001.
We are also aware that the number of AIDS-related deaths has been of concern to many, with 20,000 recorded cases in 1990, 61,000 in 1995, 130,000 in 2000, 180,000 in 2005 and 2010, and stagnated at 150,000 from 2015 through 2017.
While The Tide acknowledges the decrease in the HIV-prevalence rate in the country as a result of the good progress in scaling up HIV treatment and prevention services in recent years, we are concerned that previous records show high death rates over the last 23 years, with no sign of ebbing to, at least, the 1990 figure. We are worried that figures of prevalence rate, number of persons living with the virus and HIV-related deaths in recent years do not add up when compared with the rising population of the country, especially given that there is a wide gap between the number of people living with the virus and those accessing antiretroviral treatment. We also demand a drastic reduction in the number of Nigerians susceptible to tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B, both of which have direct links to HIV/AIDS to reassure the people that investments made by governments in this regard are yielding desired results.
This is why we agree with Mr. President that it is not yet ‘Uhuru’ for Nigeria in its quest to end the HIV pandemic among its huge population of more than 180 million. We challenge all stakeholders, particularly the management of NACA and SACA in the various states as well as the federal and state ministries of health and their partners, to rejig strategies to further reduce the impact and prevalence of the scourge through adequate provision of antiretroviral drugs, making the drugs available and ensuring that those living and or infected with the virus have unfettered access to treatment centres. The Tide tasks governments at all levels to increase budgetary allocation to the health sector by not less than 25% to scale up funding of accelerated, coordinated efforts to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the country.
We insist that the more than one million people living with HIV/AIDS, who are yet to be captured in the treatment nexus should be reached and dragged into the net to further draw down the national prevalence rate. We think that while the world awaits a verifiable and sustainable cure for HIV/AIDS, Nigerians still trapped in the conundrum should be given the necessary opportunity to exit the trauma and stigma associated with the virus, through cascading sensitisation, testing, treatment and counselling in both urban and rural areas, so that no one infected with the virus is left behind.

Editorial

Charge Before New Rivers Council Helmsmen

Published

1 day ago

September 29, 2025

The Tide

On the 30th of August, Rivers people trooped out to participate in local government elections conducted across the state. These elections, which produced new chairmen and councillors for the 23 local government areas (LGAs), were organised by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The exercise has ushered in a new crop of grassroots leaders whose shoulders now bear the responsibility of steering the affairs of their respective councils. With the polls concluded and winners duly announced, the time has come for the newly elected officials to roll up their sleeves and begin the hard work of governance.

According to the results declared by RSIEC, the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a dominant lead, winning chairmanship seats in 20 of the 23 local government councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched the remaining three. This outcome not only reflects the current political dynamics in the state but also places a significant weight of expectation on the shoulders of the APC-led councils to justify the confidence reposed in them by the electorate. It is imperative that political rhetoric now gives way to tangible development, especially at the grassroots level where government is felt most directly.

Following the elections, the successful chairmen were officially sworn into office by the former Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas. The solemn ceremony marked a transition from campaign promises to the reality of public service. With their inauguration complete, the time for celebration has ended; the time for delivery has commenced. The electorate now awaits meaningful action that reflects the hopes and aspirations of the voting public.

As helmsmen of their various LGAs, these leaders must quickly settle down to work. Their constituents expect them to provide direction, formulate policies, and execute programmes that will uplift communities long neglected. The local government tier is closest to the people and, as such, must rise above politicking to meet the everyday needs of the citizenry. It is not enough to occupy office; they must make their impact visibly and positively felt across their domains.

The Supreme Court ruling mandating direct allocation of funds to local governments—although not yet fully implemented—is a welcome development that underscores the autonomy of the third tier of government. Once this is operationalised, the excuses often cited for underperformance will no longer hold water. With funds directly accessed from the Federation Account, council administrations will be better empowered to meet the developmental needs of their localities, if only they manage resources judiciously and prioritise the right projects.

The onus is now on the chairmen to contribute meaningfully to the broader development of Rivers State. The state government cannot and should not be expected to do everything. Local government councils have defined responsibilities—ranging from rural infrastructure, primary healthcare, and basic education to waste management and local security—that must be adequately addressed. It is high time they stopped passing the buck and started acting as the elected leaders they are.

We extend our congratulations to all who emerged victorious in the elections. However, with this victory comes great responsibility. It is no longer about party affiliations or electoral campaigns; it is about governance. The chairmen must launch people-centred projects that will genuinely improve the lives of the rural populace—projects in water supply, road maintenance, school renovation, and youth empowerment, among others. Let their tenure be remembered for its impact, not its slogans.

Central to their mandate should be the welfare of workers. Council employees form the engine room of local governance, and their morale significantly affects service delivery. The new chairmen must ensure regular payment of salaries, staff training, and a conducive working environment. Neglecting this vital aspect will only hinder whatever grand plans they may have for their LGAs.

It is also essential to institute a robust peer review mechanism. The new LG officials should not operate in isolation; rather, they should learn from one another, share ideas, and compete constructively in a bid to outperform each other in service delivery. Healthy competition among council areas will drive innovation and foster accelerated development. Such a system will also help the public identify high-performing councils for emulation.

Given the typically short tenure of council administrations, it is crucial that they focus on projects that are realistic and impactful. Time and resources should not be wasted on white elephant ventures that are neither sustainable nor beneficial to the people. Instead, chairmen should pursue programmes that match their timelines and address immediate community needs.

Peace and security must remain a cardinal objective for all council steersmen. Regardless of who facilitated their election or what political loyalties they hold, they must ensure peace reigns in their areas. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of tension and distrust. These leaders must work closely with traditional rulers, youth groups, and civil society organisations to maintain law and order.

A critical understanding must also prevail—that chairmen are leaders of the people, not just leaders of political parties. They must conduct themselves as impartial administrators serving all constituents, irrespective of political affiliations. Additionally, they must work harmoniously with the state governor, who remains the leader of the state. Petty rivalries and political infighting serve no purpose in the development agenda.

Now that the elections are over and governance has begun, it is essential for these chairmen and councillors to adopt an inclusive approach. They must carry everyone along—party members and opposition alike—in their development plans. Creating division or playing favourites will only fracture communities and stall progress. Leadership at the grassroots demands fairness, equity, and a listening ear.

Rivers people have played their part by coming out to vote. The baton has now been passed to the new council helmsmen. They must seize the opportunity to leave lasting legacies in their communities. History will not judge them by the number of rallies they held or the speeches they gave, but by the quality of life they brought to their people. Let them not squander this moment.

Editorial

No To Political Office Holders’ Salary Hike

Published

1 week ago

September 22, 2025

The Tide

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.