Opinion

Pension Reforms Law: The People’s Views

Published

12 years ago

July 7, 2014

President Goodluck Jonathan, last Tuesday,
signed the Pension Reforms Bill 2014 into Law. The new law which prescribes 10-years jail term for anybody that embezzles pensions fund, is also designed to punish offenders with a view to serving as a deterrent to those who may want to mis-manage or divert pension fund assets.
How far can this law go in solving the age long problem of embezzlement of retirees money in the country? Our chief correspondent, Calista Ezeaku, put this question to some Port Harcourt residents. Prince Dele Obinna, captured the respondents.

Chief Jude Nwoka – Lecturer
Over time, our problem in this country has been our legal and regulatory frame work. There had been a lot of reforms like pension bills, corporate affairs commission and many others aimed at regulating, the activities of orgainsations. But the issue is, has there been adequate, sufficient, enabling laws to make the operators in the public service be accountable and transparent in the management of the pension fund? Now the question is, what is ICPC doing? What are all the institutions that are supposed to be guiding the activities of organisations, doing? How many persons have you heard that ICPC has jailed in this country? What of EFCC, SON and others?
What I’m saying in essence is that the Pension Reforms Bill 2014 which was signed into law by the President a couple of days ago is Okey, but implementation of this bill is the problem. We have weak, inadequate, inefficient mechanisms to monitor the compliance to these laws in all spheres of Nigerians economy. Look at what the former governor of Central Bank, Sanusi did. It’s not as if Sanusi is the best person, but he was determined to make sure that all those executive officers of the banks that were involved in that lack of corporate governance were punished and disciplined. Today, Nigeria banking industry has elements of credence and credibility. There is element of transparency.
Talking about 10-year jail term for anybody that embezzles pension fund, I don’t think that is the issue. A dubious person can say let me embezzle N10bn, go to jail and after 10 years I will come out and enjoy the money. One politician may as well be in power tomorrow and say “okay, he has to be released or granted pardon”. So there should be a distinction between politics and governance. It is not the jail term that is the issue, the issue is how morally oriented are we? Late Prof Dora Akunyili was talking about rebranding, changing the moral consciousness of Nigerians. So the issue is what is the level of our moral standard?
So the Reforms Bill is now a law but how many persons are likely to be jailed because of political patronage? Of course you know how corruption cases are being swept under the carpet in Nigeria. So, what we are saying is, how do we get morally re-orientated? How do we make sure that there is full compliance to the law? ICPC, EFCC and other agencies responsible for law enforcement should be up and doing.

Mr. Samuel Owhonda – Retired Civil Servant
The law is good but we need prayers to help us do things properly in this country. The people in positions of authority today need to remember that one day, they will retire as I have retired now. That’s why I like what President Goodluck Jonathan is doing, carrying out reforms that will make life more meaningful for retirees. I have received my retirement benefits. Government never owed me one naira. Retirees need their pension to take care of themselves and it should not be tempered with by anybody. The 10-year jail term for embezzlement of pensions fund is enough. We don’t talk about killing somebody, if not all the people involved in that are supposed to die. You have put in your whole life in service and you retire and somebody is punishing you forgetting he will retire from service one day. All of us will retire. Don’t punish people. Give them what belongs to them. Anybody that retires is on his way to the grave, so make them happy by giving them what is due them. The monthly pensions scheme is just to give them sense of belonging. It is their right which terminates when they die. So retirees in Nigeria should be provided with adequate welfare scheme to enable them enjoy like retirees in other counties.

Hon (Mrs) Chioma Amadi-Oparaeli – Public Servant
I think the law is okey because the pensioners case in Nigeria is becoming very critical. People in the offices who claim to be incharge, will sign off the pensioners money, travel aboard, build houses, buy cars and all sorts of things, forgetting the people that have worked for this money. They worked for it, they are entitled to it, so they should be given their due payment. Some of these retirees are so old, and people embezzle their money without even having pity on them. Sometimes they are owed for six, seven months. So the 10-years jail term is okey but I wish it was even more than that so that when you think of the punishment for whatever evil you want to do, you will have a rethink.
But I think that for this law to achieve its aim, our judiciary needs to be strengthened because if the judiciary is strong enough, they will be able to prosecute offenders without fear or favour. Secondly, this law should not be ridicule by giving the offenders laughable amounts to pay as options. For instance, when someone embezzles billions of naira and he was given a fine of N1m, when you know that person can pay it without blinking his eyes. He pays the fine option and is set free to enjoin his looth. So the judiciary should work seriously on that if not the embezzlement will not stop and we will keep causing the death of so many retirees. These people have contributed to the development of this country for Christ sake and I am saying that they should be given their pension as at when due. Immediately one reitrees he should be paid. Their gratuities and pensions should not be delayed. A situation where someone retirees and for three years he has not received even a kobo is very very unfair.

Mr. Igwe – Businessman
I think 10 years jail term is not enough. If you embezzle a huge sum of money and goes to jail for 10 years, well by the time you come out from prison and the money is still somewhere in a bank or with a friend, you continue your life, then somebody will follow the suit and do the same. So the penalty should be life in jail. Recall the case of the police pensions boss who embezzled pensions fund of over N20b and he was given two years jail term. Can you imagine that? That is not encouraging. The level of corruption in this country is too high. I don’t know where we are heading to honestly.
Somehow, the law will help in the fight against corruption particularly in the area of embezzlement of the retirees fund. For those who have conscience, if you remember the law, and the punishment therein, you will not want your name to be messed up. The area I’m kicking against is the 10-years jail punishment. If it can be made life jail then they will hands off completely, because you can see the politicians, they will engage the bad boys to win elections and after the election they will dump the boys and those boys will come back to the streets. Look at arms all over the places. Nobody is save in Nigeria. There is corruption everywhere.
And most of the people in government, those retirees are their parents. So we need a special welfare package for these weak ones. They should be given free medical attention and so on, so that they will pray for us. Some of these pensioners curse the younger generation due to the ill treatment meted on them by the society. But if they are happy, all that will come out from them is blessings for the younger ones.

Mr. John Ugwu – Businessman
Actually, the law is fine because in Nigeria today, the problem we have is just embezzlement, stealing of Nigerian fund. If the jail term had been higher than 10 years, it would have been better because somebody can embezzle billions of naira and go to jail for 10 years, after that, he comes out to enjoy the money with his people. So the penalty should be stiffer, according to how much was stolen. If you steal huge amount, they should give you a stiffer punishment.
This should apply not only to the pensions fund, but every aspect of life in Nigeria, schools board, local government etc. Any time a person is caught stealing Nigerian’s money, the person should go in for it. The law enforcement agencies should rise up and do their work. We have good laws in this country, but the enforcement has always been the problem. If we don’t begin the adequate punish offenders to serve as deterrent to others, this country will not move forward.

Opinion

Curbing Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

Published

2 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

2 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

3 weeks 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