Opinion

State Police And Food Security In Nigeria

Published

2 years ago

February 9, 2024

As part of the measures to address the increasing prices of food and hunger in the country, the federal government on Tuesday disclosed its plan to release food from the storage facilities across the country. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who made this known after a meeting of the Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention in Abuja, said President Bola Tinubu is concerned about the pains Nigerians are going through as it concerns food availability and affordability and is taking concrete steps to alleviate the suffering. Nigerians need to be thankful to the women and youth of Niger State, who earlier in the week took to the streets of the state capital, Minna, to protest against hunger and hardship in the nation. That action has awoken the authorities from their slumber and they are now running helter skelter to see that more food is made available to the citizens.
Incidentally, even the government knows that the release of food from the National Food Reserve is just a stopgap measure to the serious problem and that the sooner actions that will bring about permanent solutions to that challenge and stop Nigerians from dying of hunger and starvation were taken, the better for the country. How long will the food to be released last? And what is the assurance that when it is released it will get to poor masses? How are we sure that the politicians and those in the chain of distribution will not divert a greater quantity to themselves and release just a handful to the public? The federal government needs to show more commitment to the challenges facing the country. There should be sincere efforts towards dealing with the deplorable state of security across many parts of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory. It is no news that many farmers can no longer access their farm lands for fear of being killed or kidnapped by terrorists and bandits. Consider the latest attacks in Plateau and Benue States which left hundreds of people dead, their houses destroyed and bags of their harvested grains carted away by the bandits.
A particular farmer from Kaduna State recently told a story of how, upon losing his job in a furniture company in Abuja, he borrowed money from a money lending institution to go into farming. It was a bumper harvest for him as he got over 40 big bags of maize and beans. He had negotiated with the buyers and was waiting for them to come, pay and carry them when bandits invaded his village and carried all the bags of grains, including his hoes.The most painful thing is that he, just like many other farmers who take the risk of going to farms to produce food for Nigerians to eat, “settled” the bandits heavily to enable him access his farms and do any farm work. So, it is imperative that the government sincerely deals with insecurity in the nation to enable farmers to go back to their villages and farms. And with the current level of insecurity, the sophistication and all that, it is obvious that the 370, 000 federal policemen can no longer cater for the security of the over 200million Nigerian population. Police devolution is absolutely important now more than ever before to ensure adequate security of lives and property of Nigerians. The clamour for state police must be considered now. Yes, over the years, there has been an argument that Nigeria is not ripe for state police because governors, politicians and well-to-do people in the states will abuse the police and use them for the oppression and intimidation of their opponents and the poor.
Valid as that proposition may be, it lacks substantive weight when weighed against the gains of state police in the present daunting security challenges in the country. Last week, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors forum, for the umpteenth time, made a case for state police, saying that the decentralisation of the security apparatus, including the police, will go a long way in addressing the current security challenges facing the country. Speaking during a visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, the governors noted that “The ratio of police to the citizens is very low and the governors know the peculiarity of their states and how to tackle this challenge.”Similarly, the governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, during a book launch a few days ago, noted that decentralisation of the police, strengthening of the institutions and a review of the 1999 Constitution are inevitable steps to take towards addressing insecurity and other challenges facing the country. Some past leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, some notable religious, ethnic and professional groups have also lent their voices to the clamour for decentralisation of police as a way of stemming insecurity in Nigeria
. It is important that authorities, particularly the National Assembly set politics aside, reconsider the traditional centralised law enforcement model and explore the benefits that state police could bring to the table and take necessary steps to actualise it.One of the benefits of state police is depth of localised expertise. Nigeria is a nation with distinct cultural, social, and economic differences among its states. State police forces, intimately familiar with the dynamics of their respective regions, are better positioned to address and prevent crime effectively. This local knowledge can enhance community policing initiatives, fostering trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the public. A major advantage of state police is quick response. In almost all the attacks in communities across the country, the survivors narrate how the late arrival of the police or other law enforcement to the scene resulted in more damage and deaths. In a country as vast and varied as ours, response time is crucial. State police can provide quicker responses to incidents within their jurisdiction, minimising the impact of criminal activities. Moreover, the flexibility inherent in state police allows for the development of tailored policing strategies, addressing specific challenges unique to each state. Also, State police, by virtue of being closer to the communities they serve, have the potential to build stronger relationships with residents.
This proximity not only facilitates better understanding of local issues but also encourages citizens’ participation in crime prevention efforts. Increase trust between law enforcement and the public can contribute significantly to maintaining peace and order.Many times, we have heard some state governors lament over their inabilities to curtail raging crime and insecurity in their domain because the state police commissioners would not take instructions from them rather they wait for directives from Abuja. Most times, before the directive comes a great harm must have been done. It therefore makes a great sense that the police are decentralised to give the governors more power over the security affairs of their states. It is a known fact that the bulk of the financing of the federal police is done by the state governors. So, financing the state police might not be a big issue as being speculated by some people. Rather, as State police allow for a more localised approach to resource allocation, states can tailor their budgets and resources to address specific security challenges prevalent in their regions. This ensures that law enforcement agencies are equipped to handle the issues most pressing to their communities, leading to more efficient resource utilisation
However, despite the immense benefits of state police, the concerns about potential abuse of power, political interference, and coordination issues between states must be addressed. Implementing robust oversight mechanisms, strict adherence to professional standards, and fostering inter-agency collaboration can mitigate these risks. Conclusively, the establishment of state police in Nigeria represents a crucial step towards enhancing the nation’s security apparatus. Recognising the unique needs of each state and empowering local law enforcement to address these needs directly can lead to a more effective and responsive policing system. Striking the right balance between local autonomy and centralised coordination is key to navigating the challenges and reaping the benefits of a state police system in Nigeria. It is time for the nation to embrace this reform and work towards a safer and more secure future and availability of food at affordable prices for all its citizens.

Calista Ezeaku

Opinion

Curbing Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

Published

4 weeks ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “A nation that fails to empower its youth risks mortgaging its future.”

Youth, generally defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, represent a critical phase of human development—a transition from adolescence to adulthood marked by ambition, energy, and the pursuit of purpose. In Nigeria, this demographic constitutes a significant proportion of the population, making it one of the country’s greatest assets. However, this strength is increasingly undermined by a persistent and troubling challenge: youth unemployment.

Unemployment, the condition of being without gainful employment despite the willingness and ability to work, remains a major global concern. In Nigeria, however, it has reached alarming levels, particularly among young people. With estimates suggesting that a substantial percentage of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed, the consequences have become deeply embedded in the nation’s social and economic fabric.

The impact of youth unemployment is both widespread and severe. Economically, it leads to increased poverty levels and reduced productivity. Socially, it fuels frustration, hopelessness, and disillusionment among young people. This often manifests in rising rates of crime, cyber fraud, substance abuse, and involvement in political violence. When young people are unable to find legitimate means of livelihood, they may become vulnerable to negative influences, posing a threat not only to themselves but to society at large.

One of the primary drivers of youth unemployment in Nigeria is the inadequacy of the educational system. While many young Nigerians graduate from tertiary institutions each year, a significant number lack the practical and technical skills required in today’s job market. The disconnect between academic curricula and industry demands leaves graduates ill-prepared for employment, thereby widening the gap between education and employability.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s heavy dependence on the oil sector has contributed significantly to the unemployment crisis. Over the years, this reliance has led to the neglect of other critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology—sectors that have the potential to generate large-scale employment. The failure to diversify the economy has limited job opportunities and stifled innovation, leaving many young people without viable career paths.

In addition, rapid population growth continues to put immense pressure on the labor market. Each year, thousands of graduates enter the workforce, but the number of available jobs remains insufficient to absorb them. This imbalance creates intense competition for limited opportunities, leaving many qualified individuals unemployed for extended periods.

Access to finance also remains a major barrier for young Nigerians who wish to venture into entrepreneurship. Despite the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that many youths possess, the lack of access to credit facilities, mentorship, and business support systems makes it difficult for them to establish and sustain their own enterprises. This challenge is further compounded by infrastructural deficits, such as unreliable power supply and limited access to technology.

Security challenges across various parts of the country have also worsened the situation. In some regions, economic hardship and lack of opportunities have made young people susceptible to recruitment into violent or extremist activities. This not only exacerbates insecurity but also diverts the energy of the youth away from productive engagement.

Addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The government must take the lead by implementing policies that promote economic diversification, particularly by investing in agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy. These sectors hold immense potential for job creation and can absorb a large portion of the unemployed youth population.

Equally important is the reform of the educational system to emphasize skill acquisition, vocational training, and entrepreneurship. Schools and institutions must align their curricula with market needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant and practical skills. Public-private partnerships can play a vital role in facilitating internships, apprenticeships, and job placement programs.

The private sector also has a crucial role to play in driving job creation and innovation. By investing in youth-focused initiatives and supporting startups, businesses can help unlock the potential of young Nigerians. Additionally, financial institutions should develop more accessible and youth-friendly credit schemes to support small and medium-sized enterprises.

On an individual level, young people must embrace self-development, adaptability, and continuous learning. In an increasingly competitive and evolving global economy, acquiring digital skills, engaging in vocational training, and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities can significantly improve employability.

In conclusion, youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today. However, it is not an insurmountable problem. With deliberate policies, strategic investments, and collective action from government, the private sector, and individuals, Nigeria can transform its youth population into a powerful engine of growth and development. By empowering young people with opportunities, skills, and resources, the nation can secure a more prosperous and stable future.

IVARA Favour Isaac is a student of Pan-African Institute of Management and Technology.

By: Ivara Favour Isaac

Opinion

Ozoro Festival: Tradition or Tyranny?

Published

4 weeks ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote:“These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.”

In recent days, national attention has turned to the small community of Ozoro in Delta State, where what was once described as a cultural fertility rite—the Alue-Do Festival—has become the subject of outrage, grief, and urgent national reflection. According to accounts from notable indigenes of Ozoro and the Isoko ethnic group, the festival was originally conceived as a symbolic ritual intended to bless couples struggling with conception. In theory, it was meant to celebrate life, continuity, and communal identity. However, what reportedly unfolded on March 22 bore no resemblance to any noble cultural ideal. Videos circulating widely on social media show groups of men chasing women, forcibly stripping them, and subjecting them to sexual assault in public spaces. These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.

They compel us to confront a difficult but necessary question: when does tradition cease to be culture and become tyranny? It is encouraging that prominent voices—including the First Lady, the Minister of Women Affairs, human rights organisations, and women’s advocacy groups—have condemned these barbaric acts. The Delta State Government has since banned the Alue-Do Festival, while law enforcement authorities have reportedly made arrests. Yet beyond the immediate outrage lies a deeper and more uncomfortable conversation—one that communities across the country must confront honestly: the thin line between culture and abuse. “Culture is not static—it evolves, or at least, it should.” Culture is often described as the soul of a people, encompassing traditions, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations. Nigeria is richly endowed with diverse cultural heritage, much of which we rightly celebrate.

However, when culture becomes a shield for harmful practices, it loses its moral authority. When actions that violate fundamental human rights are justified in the name of tradition, we must ask: whose culture is this, and at what cost? The events in Ozoro illustrate how a practice that may once have held symbolic meaning can devolve into something deeply harmful. Even if the Alue-Do Festival began as a benign fertility rite, its present manifestation—marked by violence and coercion—cannot be defended. “Culture must align with dignity, consent, and respect—anything less is not tradition, but abuse.” One of the most persistent arguments in defence of controversial practices is that they are “part of our heritage” and therefore beyond criticism. Yet harmful practices—child marriage, inhumane widowhood rites, and domestic abuse—have long been justified using this same reasoning. This argument is not only flawed; it is dangerous. No culture is above scrutiny, particularly when it endangers the rights and safety of its people.

History reminds us that many practices once considered “normal” are now widely condemned. Societies progress by questioning and reforming such practices—not by clinging to them. Nigeria is not exempt from this reality. As a nation governed by law and constitutional principles, we cannot afford to tolerate practices that undermine the rights of citizens—especially women. At the heart of the Ozoro incident lies a broader societal issue: the perception of women as objects rather than autonomous individuals. The actions of the perpetrators were not isolated—they were enabled by a mindset that sees women’s bodies as accessible, controllable, and, in some contexts, communal property. “Women are not possessions, prizes, or objects of exploitation—they are individuals with rights, agency, and dignity.” This mindset reflects a deeper systemic problem often described as “rape culture,” visible in victim-blaming narratives, the dismissal of harassment, and the silence that frequently surrounds abuse.

For meaningful change to occur, this mindset must be confronted directly. Parents, religious institutions, government agencies, and the media all have critical roles to play in reshaping societal attitudes. Traditional institutions also wield significant influence, particularly in rural communities. With that influence comes responsibility—not only to preserve culture but to ensure that cultural practices align with contemporary standards of human rights and decency.The reported denial by the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom of knowledge of the recent festival raises important questions about oversight and accountability. Community leaders and members alike must rise to their responsibilities. Cultural practices are sustained by collective acceptance. Silence, indifference, or complicity only perpetuate harm. While cultural reform is essential, it must be accompanied by accountability. The arrests made in connection with the incident are a step in the right direction, but they must lead to tangible outcomes. “Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.”

Allowing perpetrators of sexual violence to go unpunished sends a dangerous message—that such actions are tolerable. This fosters a culture of impunity. The law must be clear and unequivocal: sexual assault, in any form and under any guise, is a crime. It is not a cultural expression—it is a violation.It must be emphasised that calling for the abandonment of harmful cultural practices is not an attack on tradition, but a call to refine it. Culture, at its best, is dynamic—it adapts while preserving its core values.“Tradition should uplift, not oppress.” Modernising culture does not mean erasing identity. It means ensuring that traditions remain relevant, inclusive, and respectful of human dignity. As Nigeria continues to evolve, it must decide what kind of society it aspires to be: one that hides behind tradition to justify abuse, or one that embraces progress while honouring its heritage responsibly. The outrage over the events in Ozoro is justified—but outrage alone is not enough

. It must translate into action: legal, cultural, and educational. We must state, without ambiguity, that no tradition justifies the violation of human dignity. We must hold perpetrators accountable and challenge the attitudes that enable such acts. True development is measured not only by infrastructure or economic growth, but by how a society treats its most vulnerable members. “If a cultural practice dehumanises, degrades, or endangers, it has no place in a modern society.” Where tradition fails to uphold dignity, it ceases to be culture. It becomes tyranny.

By: Calista Ezeaku

Opinion

Bazia EXCO @ One: NUJ Rivers Reawakened

Published

1 month ago

March 23, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “For the first time in years, Rivers journalists are not just hearing promises—they are seeing a union that works.”

The first year in office of the Paul Bazia-led executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has offered something many had almost given up on—renewed confidence in union leadership. For a body as critical as the NUJ, whose responsibility goes beyond professional coordination to include the welfare, protection, and continuous development of journalists, expectations are always high. Unfortunately, past experiences had conditioned many members to expect less—less action, less visibility, and less impact.This is why the past twelve months stand out. Within a relatively short period, the Bazia-led administration has demonstrated a level of drive that distinguishes it from its predecessors. There is a noticeable shift from inertia to activity, from routine administration to purposeful leadership. Initiatives captured in the one-year report point to an executive that understands both the urgency of its mandate and the frustrations of its members.

Particularly commendable is the renewed attention to journalists’ welfare. For too long, welfare issues have lingered without meaningful resolution, leaving many practitioners feeling unsupported. The current leadership’s efforts—through engagement, structured support, and timely interventions—signal a welcome change in priorities. Equally important is the push toward professional development. In an era where journalism is rapidly evolving, capacity building is no longer optional. The administration’s commitment to training and skill enhancement reflects an understanding that a stronger union must be built on more competent and competitive professionals. There is also something to be said about visibility and voice. A vibrant NUJ must not only serve its members internally but also stand as a credible voice in the public space—defending press freedom, promoting ethical standards, and constructively engaging critical issues.

Encouragingly, the current executive appears more present and responsive, giving the union a renewed sense of relevance. Perhaps what resonates most, however, is the sense of movement. For many members, the difference between the present and the immediate past is not subtle—it is clear. Where there was once stagnation, there is now direction. Where there was doubt, there is growing belief. Beyond the visible strides recorded within this first year, what perhaps deserves even greater applause is the restoration of institutional confidence within the Nigeria Union of Journalists. For a long time, many members had grown disenchanted, viewing the union more as a ceremonial body than an active force capable of defending their interests and advancing their welfare. That narrative, however, is gradually changing. The Bazia-led executive has not only initiated programs but has also rekindled a sense of belonging among members.

Meetings appear more purposeful, engagements more intentional, and decisions more reflective of collective interest. This psychological shift—subtle as it may seem—is one of the most critical achievements of the past year, because a union that its members believe in is already halfway to effectiveness. It is also important to underscore the contrast with the immediate past, not as an exercise in criticism, but as a necessary context for measuring progress. Where previous administrations struggled to translate plans into action, the current leadership has shown a greater bias for execution. Projects that once lingered in discussion stages are now seeing tangible movement, and issues that were previously deferred are receiving attention. This difference in approach—moving from prolonged deliberation to decisive action—has helped reposition the union as a more responsive and relevant institution.

While no administration is without its shortcomings, the willingness to act, even in the face of constraints, marks a significant departure from what members were accustomed to. Looking ahead, the expectations of members—and indeed the wider public—will only grow stronger. With a solid first year behind it, the Bazia-led executive now carries the burden of consistency. Members will expect deeper welfare interventions that go beyond immediate relief to more sustainable support systems. They will look for expanded training opportunities that prepare journalists for the rapidly changing media landscape. They will also expect a firmer, more courageous voice on issues affecting press freedom and professional integrity. Above all, they will demand continuity—assurance that the progress recorded so far is not a fleeting phase but the beginning of a sustained transformation.

Meeting these expectations will not be easy, but it is precisely this challenge that defines enduring leadership. That said, this moment of applause must also serve as a moment of reflection. A strong first year inevitably raises expectations. Journalists in Rivers State will now look beyond initial achievements toward consolidation. Welfare interventions must become more structured and far-reaching. Training programs must be sustained and expanded. Advocacy must become more consistent and impactful. Most importantly, the unity of the union must be strengthened, ensuring that all members feel included and carried along. Transparency will also be key. Continued open communication about finances, decisions, and challenges will deepen trust and set a standard for accountable union leadership. The task ahead is clear: to convert early momentum into lasting institutional progress.

For the Bazia-led executive, the opportunity is significant. It has, within one year, reawakened belief in what the NUJ Rivers State Council can be. The next step is to ensure that this renewed energy does not fade, but instead becomes the foundation of a stronger, more responsive, and more respected union. For the members, the message is equally clear—expect more, demand more, and support what works because in the end, a vibrant union is not built by leadership alone, but by a collective commitment to progress. And for now, under Bazia, that progress has truly begun.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi