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Seadogs Warn Of Debt Crisis As FG Seeks Fresh N2.2bn Loan
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s escalating debt profile, warning that further borrowings could exacerbate the nation’s economic woes.
In a statement issued by the NAS Cap’n, Dr Joseph Oteri, the group expressed concern over President Bola Tinubu’s recent request for a $2.209bn external loan to partially finance the 2024 budget deficit of N9.179 trillion, which has already been approved by the National Assembly.
The association described the request as worrisome, raising critical questions about Nigeria’s fiscal direction, debt sustainability, and overall economic strategy.
Titled “It’s time to ask questions about FG’s endless borrowing”, the statement blamed the Federal Government for relying too heavily on crude oil exports as its primary source of revenue.
The President had justified the loan request by stating that it would help accelerate the implementation of projects and programmes outlined in the 2024 Appropriation Act, which aims to stabilise the economy.
However, the Pyrates Confraternity argued that, despite using the Debt Management Office Act of 2003 to explore Eurobonds, Sovereign Sukuk, and syndicated loans, this approach fails to address the deeper structural issues plaguing Nigeria’s economy.
The association acknowledged that Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio has decreased from around 97% to 65% since May 2023, as reported by Tinubu. However, they cautioned that the country remains trapped in the present administration’s persistent borrowing habits.
As of June 2024, the Debt Management Office reported that Nigeria’s total public debt had reached N134.3 trillion, which means that each of the 216.7 million Nigerians owes N619,501. In the three months between March and June 2024, Nigeria’s debt profile rose by N12.6 trillion. This sharp increase is partly attributed to recurring budget deficits, borrowing to fund infrastructure and an overreliance on external loans.
The association warned that the long-term fiscal risks of these borrowings far outweigh any short-term benefits touted by the proponents of the administration’s borrowing strategy. It pointed to the debt service-to-revenue ratio of approximately 60%, which suggests insufficient room for critical developmental projects. The group further predicted a 26% rise in debt servicing costs from 2025 to 2027.
The National Association of Seadogs called for urgent scrutiny of the nation’s financial management, stressing that it is disheartening to see debts incurred primarily to feed recurrent expenditure and the extravagant lifestyles of politicians.
“The President’s earlier promise to reduce the cost of governance has not only been abandoned but has worsened significantly, painting a grim picture of politicians thriving on the misfortunes of ordinary citizens,” the statement read.
To prevent future generations from being burdened by endless debt servicing, the association urged the government to halt further borrowing plans aimed at funding its bloated expenditures.
“We reject the Federal Government’s failure to drastically cut the cost of governance,” the group stated.
“We call on the people’s representatives to lead by example—taking pay cuts, reducing travel expenses, and driving down the cost of governance,” the group added.
Seadogs also urged the government to focus on improving the earning potential of Nigerians, rather than continuing to expand its own lavish expenditures.
“Efforts should be directed at increasing the productivity of the average Nigerian, not on how the government can indulge in excess,” the statement said, adding “This humanistic approach to governance will ensure that the government fulfils its most important mandate.”
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol