In this digital age, the role of governments in safeguarding and promoting internet freedom has become increasingly vital.
The internet serves as a platform for individuals to exercise their fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, association, and assembly.
Internet Freedom
As the primary entities responsible for protecting the rights and interests of their citizens, governments in Nigeria have a crucial responsibility in ensuring open access to the internet, guaranteeing internet freedom, and upholding the rule of law online.
Governments, along with private-sector entities, civil society organizations, and international bodies, play a central role in shaping the development of the Communication and Information Society.
They possess the power to create policies, regulations, and frameworks that define the parameters of internet access and usage.
This responsibility extends beyond the national level, as the internet’s borderless nature demands global cooperation and coordination in internet governance.
The foundation of a thriving internet lies in its openness. Governments bear the responsibility of preserving the open and free nature of the global internet ecosystem.
This entails providing citizens with unimpeded access to online platforms, free from arbitrary restrictions or censorship. It also involves establishing and enforcing laws that protect individuals’ rights and interests while balancing the need for cybersecurity, privacy, and protection against speech that incites violence.
Internet freedom is not an absolute concept. While governments aim to enhance internet freedom, they must also consider the rights and interests of all members of society.
The internet can be a space where conflicts arise between individuals, groups, or institutions with divergent viewpoints. In such cases, governments have a duty to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved.
This includes ensuring cybersecurity measures are in place to safeguard individuals and critical infrastructure, protecting individuals’ right to privacy, and addressing harmful speech that undermines social cohesion or incites violence.
Furthermore, governments must recognize that internet freedom is not solely a domestic issue but also a matter of foreign policy. As the internet transcends national borders, collaboration and engagement in global internet governance are imperative. Governments should actively participate in international discussions, working alongside other nations, organizations, and stakeholders to establish common principles, standards, and frameworks that preserve internet freedom while addressing transnational challenges.
To fulfill their responsibility in protecting and furthering internet freedom, governments must strike a delicate balance between facilitating open access to the internet and ensuring the rights and interests of individuals are respected. This requires robust legal and regulatory frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Governments should actively engage with civil society and the private sector, recognizing their valuable contributions and expertise in shaping internet policies.
In Nigeria, the government’s commitment to enhancing internet freedom is crucial for fostering a thriving digital ecosystem, driving innovation, and facilitating economic growth. By investing in internet infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and creating a favorable environment for digital startups and SMEs, the government can empower its citizens to fully participate in the digital economy.
In conclusion, the role of governments in protecting and furthering internet freedom cannot be overstated. It is their responsibility to ensure open access to the internet, guarantee internet freedom, and uphold the rule of law online.
By striking a balance between protecting individual rights and addressing societal interests, governments in Nigeria can create an environment that nurtures innovation, inclusivity, and respect for fundamental freedoms in the digital realm.
Collaboration at both domestic and international levels is vital to address the evolving challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Wale Bakare is a Digital Rights and Digital Inclusion Advocate, Co-founder/Director of Partnership and Sustainability, Webfala Digital Skills for all Initiative.
For some of us, taking a quick glance at the dailies has become a daily ritual. Regardless of the time of day, you’ll find me eagerly calling the vendor to confirm when my copy will be delivered.
As a media manager, staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and news across various channels is not just a habit, but a passion.
Beyond that, the real passion is to be able to provide insightful analysis and guidance on the most effective media platforms for strategic communications advisory, and ultimately, never to be caught unaware especially when it comes to matters that matter.
While it’s no secret that traditional platforms have experienced a significant decline in circulation and readership, mainstream platforms still maintain their strength and credibility as the primary source of news in Nigeria.
According to a report published by World Press Trends, digital reader revenue and digital readership continued to increase significantly – the figures went up by 27% and 36%. This figure continues to increase and is likely to be a key driving force for sustainable revenue growth in the media industry.
The way people consume news is evolving, and consumer behavior has changed. Seeing many media publications adapting to these changes to stay in business and be relevant is actually interesting.
As my MD will usually say “Innovate or die”, I believe the goal is to stay in business. As such, many newspaper outlets have now embraced a subscription-based digital model to expand their reach and cater to a wider audience.
In addition to adopting e-copy versions of their print publications, mainstream platforms have also established a robust social media presence and tailored their news content to engage online audiences through podcasts, YouTube, and other social platforms.
To my industry colleagues, it’s crucial to consider some of these significant mainstream platforms that have effectively transitioned to the digital landscape when creating a media amplification plan. Staying up to date on emerging trends, technologies, and communication tools can help adapt strategies to meet the ever-changing comms needs.
These acronyms represent just some of the organisations and technologies surrounding the development of connective tissue in Africa, writes REBATHO MADIBA, Business Development Digital Platform Solutions at BCX, who believes the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) remains a priority for Africa:
Rebatho Madiba
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) remains a priority for Africa. The continent may not yet have the infrastructure, connectivity and technology that defines 4IR innovation and growth in other countries around the globe, but there is significant investment into Africa and its potential.
From financial institutions to organisations to the public sector, 4IR remains a priority for those that have the foresight to see how a commitment to Africa will pay dividends in the future.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa was developed for the sole purpose of driving 4IR within the country, and to allow for the growth and development of technologies and digital innovations that will empower organisations.
The goal of the CSIR is to enhance the foundations of technology so that 4IR can evolve smoothly and sustainably.
The CSIR also has a presence in Kenya and Ghana with similar objectives in mind – bolster each country’s confidence around 4IR and continue to build the connective tissue required to maintain momentum.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) underscores the importance of such organisations and the need for ‘collective action in institutionalising 4IR technologies’ at a time when technology needs to follow the pathway of social good, not just innovation.
It is a sentiment echoed in a recent discussion around the start of human clinical trials for artificial intelligence (AI) brain implants – the Neuralink chip is set to enter the human brain and the most significant question raised is how this needs to be balanced with societal impact and technology for good.
This is the stance that dominates how the WEF believes 4IR should be managed across Africa as it will allow for richer collaboration and socioeconomic growth.
However, the WEF emphasises the need for improved governance and regulation by the government to ensure that the risks that come with 4IR – security, and inequality – are managed effectively.
A sentiment shared by PriceWaterhouse Coopers (PWC) who believe that while there is potential within 4IR there is an equal need for concern. Technologies have to be harnessed and focused in the right ways to ensure that they do what they promise – revolutionise the world and transform lives – not eat into resources and create greater divides between the haves and the have-nots.
The research firm is also paying attention to how 4IR can drive the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In collaboration with the WEF, PWC believes that 4IR can be steered in the right direction to help overcome systemic challenges across Africa and resolve many of the complexities that inhibit development and growth.
This, says the firm, needs connectivity. It is connectivity that forms the backbone of 4IR, citizen service delivery, and the development of richer services and capabilities across agriculture, medicine, and education.
As the report emphasises – more than 80% of technology applications recognised as key to achieving the SDGs require internet access.
Which is precisely what the UNDP believes to be key in driving the 4IR bus across the long stretches of Africa. In its recent playbook, the organisation emphasises the need for inclusive transformation, and the use of technology to remove the stain of the growing digital divide.
The playbook is designed to provide companies and governments with insights that allow for them to build a 4IR strategy that’s reliant on relevant technology and resilient to change and disruption.
What all this means for the organisations that are growing their digital foundations in the region is that there is a cohesive drive towards the development of 4IR in Africa.
A drive that’s paying attention to more than just ROI and the bottom line. Rather, it is a shared vision across organisations and institutions to fully realise the potential of 4IR on a continent that could shine on the global stage with the right investment and support. To ensure this becomes a reality, companies need to collaborate and invest in technologies that will empower their evolution into 4IR.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of retail, where businesses strive to capture the attention of consumers in a fast-paced and interconnected digital world, marketing communication overload is becoming an all-too-common phenomenon that could actually have the opposite effect – turning customers off their brand.
Consumers are overwhelmed on a daily basis by the sheer volume of messages they receive in their inboxes, social media feeds and mobile devices, and this aggressive approach could see businesses lose substantially more than they gain.
To make matters worse, consumers are burdened not only by the sheer magnitude and frequency of adverts across multiple channels, but also by the unfortunate reality that much of this marketing communication fails to resonate with their interests or needs.
In some extreme instances, such messages can even come across as inappropriate or offensive, disregarding their unique preferences and personal boundaries.
Consequently, instead of attracting prospective buyers, an overabundance of marketing communication could essentially leave consumers frustrated.
This frustration, in turn, can foster negative perceptions surrounding the brand and significantly impact long-term customer loyalty. When inundated with excessive marketing messages, individuals may perceive that the business lacks respect for its customers’ boundaries and prioritises profit-seeking over genuine customer relationships.
Such perceptions are not good for business as they are likely to negatively affect the company’s reputation, erode customer trust and impact sales, which in turn will hit the bottom line. Marketing communication overload is thus a sure way to make consumers feel disrespected and damage customer engagement.
Show what is relevant
It is very important that retailers strive to strike a balance between staying visible and avoiding communication overload. It is actually quite simple – show people what is relevant to them.
The easiest way to achieve this is to segment your customer base and refine your messages based on individual preferences and behaviours.
Organisations must adopt a customer-centric approach, leverage data analytics and understand individual preferences. Only then can retailers tailor their marketing efforts to provide meaningful and engaging experiences. This shift towards strategic, targeted communication not only helps mitigate overload, but also builds stronger, long-lasting customer relationships.
At the same time, retailers must also recognise the importance of personalisation to remain relevant and strike the right chords with their customers.
In sales, there is a concept known as, “Show Me You Know Me”, which alludes to leveraging personalisation to let your customers know that you’ve done your groundwork and you care about their personal interests and needs.
Personalisation says to your customer:
“I know you and I want to share this with you because I think it would benefit you”.
But personalisation cannot happen without data and people generate mountains of data on a daily basis, which forms the bedrock of decision making.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence
Once data about a consumer has been gathered, harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to perform data analytics and gain customer insights is key to tailoring marketing messages that are relevant to individuals, and this will avoid overload. With so much data available, businesses that are not targeting their messages to individual consumers can be perceived as lazy and are sending out the message that they are just not prepared to put in the work.
In an effort to regain customer trust and loyalty, retailers must be prepared to be transparent about their communication practices, while sending out content that resonates with their audience.
In addition, by listening to customer feedback and by offering exclusive benefits or rewards to their customers, businesses can build a community around their products.
Ultimately, finding the right balance between staying visible and avoiding communication overload can be tricky, but retailers need to adopt strategic, targeted communication that will mitigate overload and also builds stronger, long-lasting customer relationships.
“When the trust account is high, communication is easy, instant, and effective”,
– Stephen R. Covey.
Corporate communications in Nigeria’s public sector is akin to walking the eggshells. Balancing public and institutional interest in information management is a daunting responsibility.
Public sector institutions prefer significant confidentiality measures in their information management processes. Emerging cybersecurity technologies and knowledge management have led to the introduction of extra steps for information storage and retrieval.
Office documents tray
Many of these organizations currently store documents in digital formats, encrypted, and, in some cases, introduce a password for access. In federal ministries, agencies and departments, the use of physical files is, however, still prevalent.
Several memos, reports, and documents transverse the institutions in utmost confidentiality. Spokespersons or Directors of Communications in these government agencies walk a tight rope in information management.
Government officials have attributed this state of affairs to the confidential nature of public sector activities and the need to protect the organizations and government from unintended information leakages that could cause embarrassment.
These officials have cited the Official Secret Act, also known as the Oath of Secrecy Act, 1962, as the significant barrier to corporate communications in the public sector.
The overarching objective of the Act is to “check against the publication of highly confidential information or documents that may weaken or limit the integrity of any government and, by extension, threaten the security of the state” (Asemah, 2009, p. 371).
Citizens have continued to express concerns over the continuous use of the 1962 Oath of Secrecy Act, 61 years after the country’s independence.
The Clerk of the House of Representatives, Yahaya Danzaria, in a story in Premium Times of August 9, 2022, was quoted as intimating the staff of the House of Representatives that the Oath of Secrecy Act of 1962 has remained in force to prevent the leakage of important official documents of the government, stressing that institutions must protect vital government information to avoid exposing it to embarrassment and ridicule.
Despite enacting the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in 2011, government officials still fear the consequences of divulging official government information. Some government employees have lost their jobs for releasing confidential information without authorization.
The above places enormous restrictions on Directors of Communication or Spokespersons of government agencies. The need to withhold some vital information, and justifiably so, while under pressure from the media and other stakeholders for information could be unsettling.
Industry professionals, the media and members of the public have expressed grave concerns over limited information on the activities of some government agencies, stressing that, at times, some of the statements released are inadequate and outdated.
Corporate communication analysts have observed that the FOIA 2011 has not necessarily solved the problem, arguing that obtaining information from government agencies remains challenging.
The recent upsurge of requests for information from government agencies under the FOIA, 2011, is attributed to the existing communication gap between public sector organizations and stakeholders. Strategic stakeholders’ engagement is crucial to information management.
As mentioned above, the prevailing scenario underscores the need for regular stakeholder engagements, where the public sector institutions provide information addressing nagging questions.
Stakeholders’ engagement strategy reduces the pressure institutions encounter regarding requests for information under the Freedom of Information Act of 2011.
In 2013, the Public Affairs Department of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), under the leadership of Dr. Eugene Juwah, the then Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), obtained an approval of the department’s strategies to guide the Commission’s corporate communications.
I must emphasize that, it is in organization’s best interest, to have one spokesperson to avoid the release of mixed messages, thus creating communication dissonance. The messaging should be consistent, factual, and unambiguous.
The spokesperson must keep abreast of the subject matters and be very knowledgeable. The corporate affairs director or spokesperson should elicit the trust of the CEO, the approving authority for all external communications.
Any suggestion of pursuing personal interest would engender suspicion and consequent censorship due to a lack of confidence and doubt.
The CEO should approve all sensitive materials for external communications. Owing to the sensitive nature of the communications industry, statements from the Commission must be consistent, clear, transparent, timely, and factual and should address the issues at stake.
During the period the industry experienced poor Quality of Services (QoS), the Commission decided that our communications would be frank and regular, without coverups.
Denials of obvious situations and challenges provokes the people, but acceptance of the existing situation craving for understanding, while the situation is addressed, elicits favorable considerations.
Annoyed young man over poor QoS.
The Commission was transparent, empathetic, and timely in our strategic communications. The public affairs department adopted an open-door policy and was ready to respond to media enquiries. There were regular media appearances addressing the challenges in the sector and the regulatory interventions the Commission engaged to solve the problems.
The Commission acknowledged the existence of the QoS challenges in all media appearances and press releases but outlined the measures the Commission had adopted to deal with the issues, such as insisting on the strict compliance of service providers to the QoS benchmarks.
At that time, NCC wielded the big stick and issued the highest fine ever imposed by any regulator in the continent to a major operator in Nigeria for breaching the Commission’s regulations.
To effectively manage the Commission’s information, we conducted a study to discover the factors that negatively affect corporate communications.
Our findings indicated that; delays in releasing substantial public information fuels rumours, and inaccurate information encourages negative ‘grapevine’ stories, an adversarial relationship with the media is not helpful, lack of transparency in governance breeds suspicion. Blocking communication channels lead to unfriendly relationships.
A Spokesman should keep an open-door policy with the stakeholders, especially the media, to avoid speculations and adversarial publications.
The organization should maintain regular interactions with both the online and mainstream media. Regular consultations with relevant stakeholders is necessary to keep them informed of the activities of the organization.
In 2015 , as part of our strategic communications drive, the department obtained the approval of the Current EVC/CEO, Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, to set up the Online media unit in the Public Affairs Department, and continue to utilize the social media handles on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram to disseminate information on the Commission’s activities.
The organization was one of the first public sector organizations to use social media platforms to engage our stakeholders.
The Director of Public Affairs had a Twitter handle that informed the public of the Commission’s activities, on real-time basis, engaging directly with Stakeholders and consumers of communication services. The Commission streamed many of its events live on social media platforms.
Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) 2023 with the theme ‘Combatting E-Fraud on Telecom Platform: Building Consumer Confidence in the Digital Economy’ is ongoing at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lagos. pic.twitter.com/zdlCzRizM7
The the world is a global village, and information is currency in the digital age. A former Chief of Staff at the U.S. House of Representatives, C. Lillie, on August 26, 2014, stated that “Information is the currency in the digital economy and as such has value.”
Mark Barrenechea, in his article “Why Information is the New Currency“, opined that, in a digital world, information is the new currency, and as information flows across networks and is exchanged, more metadata is collected, thereby growing in value.
Despite the existence of the Oath of Secrecy, Act, 1962, organizations can still find innovative ways to communicate with the public, without compromising very sensitive information. Corporate Communications must be strategic, intentional and purpose driven.
Social Media platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook have democratized information gathering, thus introducing some measures of disruption in information management processes.
Public sector organizations should embrace both the mainstream and the new media in communicating with the various publics. Information is a digital asset; organizations that ignore its impact on information management do so at their peril.
Tony Ojobo, former Director of Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission, writes from Abuja.
The world’s natural reserves are fast diminishing at a worrisome speed, almost two times quicker than mother earth can recreate.
This figure is projected to be 2.3 times what is sustainable by 2050. Yearly, 50 million tonnes of e-waste contribute to this, which is tantamount to the size of all commercial aircraft ever made.
Hence, achieving a sustainable environment is incumbent on implementing a circular business model like waste reduction, recycling, and regenerating products, and advocating sustainable production processes. Nonetheless, global economy is just 7.2% circular – implying that more ground needs to be covered.
With an essential role expected of multinationals, organizations of every size and sector can still adopt circular business models.
Considerably, SMEs are driving platform sharing and collaborative consumption much as start-ups, from the onset, are incorporating circular models. An excellent example of this seen in Nigeria, where business sustainability focus is circular as propagated by the Nigeria Circular Economy Working Group, a founding member of the Africa Circular Economy Alliance.
Incidentally, HP is deepening sustainability with years of experience. Its operations’ journey, particularly, will be entirely circular, driven by services and products modifications. Below are few approaches to reference:
Getting the Buy-in of the Considerate Consumer
Customers are getting more aware today than ever. So, businesses that make circularity a priority will accomplish long-term environmental and commercial profits; and ultimately fulfil customer expectations.
While circularity models need upfront funding, it helps to reduce outlays, optimize efficiency, and even discover new revenue sources. To further endear customer trust and loyalty, organizations must offer measurement tools that identify waste prevention and cost optimization mechanisms that help to establish enterprise superiority.
Circular enterprise models also produce profitable results. For instance, our Sustainable Impact Strategy has been boosted by HP’s socio-economic components on climate-focused programs. HP’s alliance with NGOs to launch an ocean-bound plastics recycling program to help indigenous workers is yielding positives in Haiti. Now, these plastics are fused into HP products design aesthetics, encouraging circularity, and providing revenue and homegrown education opportunities.
Start and continue with the environment as a priority
As a rule, circular products are designed with environmental considerations from the start. Sustainable sourcing should be among the initial priorities, with concentration on ethical practices and ambitious but attainable goals.
This ties in to ‘Circular Lagos’, a sustainability initiative of the Lagos State government which seeks to design economic value from waste recycling.
As reference case, HP, since 2016 has mandated all its brand papers to be derived from ecologically reusable or certified sources. It was extended to paper-based packaging in 2020 for home and office printers and supplies, PCs and displays.
By 2030, HP’s goal is to become Forest Positive; thereby, eliminating deforestation for non-HP paper used in print services and product lines.
What creates distinction in packaging is innovation. 100% compostable chitin-based materials are a new development, whereas 3D-printed moulded fibre tooling can drive eco-packaging at scale. Printing improvements, including printing directly onto product cargo boxes and using water-based inks most likely initiate supplementary benefits. HP’s goal is to eradicate 75% of single-use plastic packaging by 2025 compared to 2018―as of 2021, we were halfway there. Commendable Indeed!
Decrease waste, enhance lifecycle
One vital aspect for electronic devices is energy usage, though this can be puzzling for consumers. Companies and institutions can help customers make valid choices. Also with comparison tools, manufacturers can assist with clear and accurate details on labels, packaging, along with marketing and brand collaterals.
HP supplies are often highly valued for repairability, with institutions like iFixit providing reparability scores and self-repair (DIY) guides. Institutions can help in reducing request for fresh raw supplies by giving extended warranties and ensuring repair options.
Clearly, sustainable customer experience can be improved with ‘as-a-service models’; whilst promoting circularity through company-led takeback; hence, responsible companies aim to be value facilitators via repair and reuse of supplies when customers are done with them.
Significance of closed-loop recycling
Closed-loop reutilizing plays huge part in circularity, and HP is loaded with initiatives to support it. A good case study is HP’s Planet Partners program that helps to ensure that ink and toner cartridges do not end up in landfills. Over a billion cartridges have been recycled through this program, a major landmark in 2023. Provisionally, HP’s Evocyle toner cartridges, made from closed-loop recycled plastic, are serving the sustainability goals of customers in France, Germany, and the UK.
In the reuse of a much wider range of resources, we are also getting better. For example, you might find bio-derived content like coffee grounds in monitors or cooking oil in laptop covers.
Partnership−a necessary paradigm for enterprise scaling
A circular business model is vital. It’s hinged on team play and partnerships with strategic stakeholders – government, suppliers, merchants/dealers etc.
Strengthening networks with NGOs, research institutes, and think tanks, also positions serious institutions above contemporaries. Lagos has entrenched the model by introducing initiatives which encourage community members to drop off used plastic bottles and containers at designated recycling points for reuse.
To improve its fibre sourcing and certification programs, HP is collaborating with World Wildlife Fund and the Forest Stewardship Council.
Regardless of where they are on their circularity journey, collaboration certainly benefits all types of companies. Participating in industry bodies, working with manufacturing partners, and ideas exchange with regulators and professional associations can help advance policy influencing, build consensus, and progress legislation.
Institutions with established existing programs perhaps extend their impact by involving their business environment. Another reference now driving change at scale is HP’s Amplify Impact partner program, which has engaged over 3,500 partners worldwide.
Envision the future
A vision of a more regenerative and sustainable future is presented with the concept of a circular economy. It could boost the global economy by $4.5 trillion by 2030, if executed appropriately, with accountable sourcing and packaging, materials and products that remain in use longer, and closed loop recycling.
Evolution to circularity is now a necessity with no option. To actualize it, we must immediately shift mindsets, embrace circular practices, and cultivate alliance and frameworks essential for success. Bountiful rewards sure await the businesses that leads the way.
Nigeria, the leading importer of electrical and electronic equipment on the African continent which processes over half a million tons of discarded electronics each year, in January 2022, amended its national environmental regulations to tackle the country’s growing e-waste problem.
So, whether you are just starting or already on the path ― the time is here and now to take the next big step. The future is indeed circular, and it’s up to businesses globally to make it come to fruition.
Continent’s economies need require investments in science and Tech
BY: Taiwo Adetiloye
An aid’s effectiveness is dicey as the implementation is usually not well-tailored or highlighted.
No wonder aid donors nowadays put certain clause and conditions that may not be favourable or alter the norms, cultures and existing traditions of the receiving nations.
For example, some aid donor would ‘tell’ receiving host that “to give you aid, you must legislate or legalized laws that promote or support same-sex marriage, etc”.
For nations already engrossed with other forms of social inequalities such as acute discrimination, which as a result of religious conflicts, ethnicity and tribalism. Legislating same-sex laws may not be on their agenda for the next century to come.
Items for Zimbabwe Aid
Furthermore, the effectiveness of aid delivery and utilization may end up not going down for the real purpose for which it was meant for. For instance, one may only hope that countries receiving the aid will meticulously utilize it for the sole purpose it was initially meant for. In some cases, due to corruption, the aids are either stolen, misused or abused.
In other cases, international foundations and NGOs, sometimes are guilty of misappropriation. Some NGOs and international foundations receive money from external donors but may choose not to use it for the initial cause or goals aspired by the foundation.
Foreign aids are short term solutions for upcoming third world countries. The long term solutions for solving the over-dependence on donor countries is to ensure that aid is narrowed down to the necessary sector of the economy. Mainly, the health and education sector.
The same solution proffered by aid donors can be achieved by reversing the equation or adding to the existing platform by ensuring aid donors make more direct investment in renewable energies, recycling, education, research and training younger generations to become scientists in third world countries.
This will drastically mitigate over-dependence on aid donors, create a better ecosystem, improve growth and development across the globe etc.
A mothers love is weakened when their children’s health is at risk.
Take, for example, the America government bailout Western Europe countries after the second world war. The bailout plan was known as “The Marshall Plan”.
Also known as the European Recovery Program, The Marshall Plan was a U.S. program providing aid to Western Europe following the devastation of World War II.
It was enacted in 1948 and provided more than $15 billion to help finance rebuilding efforts on the continent. The brainchild of U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall, for whom it was named, it was crafted as a four-year plan to reconstruct cities, industries and infrastructure heavily damaged during the war and to remove trade barriers between European neighbours – as well as foster commerce between those countries and the United States.” (Retrieved online, History.com, May 3, 2020).
We can imagine the possibilities of training more Africans on how to create vaccines suited for tropical diseases by themselves. Furthermore, we can imagine the possibilities of training Africans in IT-related courses so they can have more opportunities for better lives.
In essence, education can solve half of human known problems. An educated male will most likely not have many wives, practise family planning or bear children without training them through school and let them remain un-vaccinated.
Thus, education is known to break the cycle of poverty in any society. Besides, a society where more girl-child is trained performed better compared to the latter where restrictions on educating a girl-child is seen as a cultural delimiter or out of the norm.
Source: Google/AFRIC
Education remains the bridge to close the gap between poverty and opportunities. Without education, foreign donors with influential presence in Africa will keep administering vaccines and more Africans will keep making babies after surviving diseases such as meningitis, polio., etc from vaccination cures.
Also, the issue of trust in administering vaccine made from oversea labs and distributed to poor nations will be mitigated, if more citizens from underprivileged nations are trained and equipped to take part in the scientific process of developing those vaccines.
Note, this article is not meant to undermine the assistance rendered by aid donors, NGOs and foundations etc. but to be an eye-opener on ways to effectively administer aids.
Lastly, there is a need to ensure that aid goes to the right department with the right resources and personnel are deployed to manage and effectively utilize the aid.
A fully digitalized world is not too far from reach. Scientists and experts are intrigued about the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) replacing most jobs in the nearest future.
Thus, the new possibilities are eliciting meaningful debates, questioning the existing status quo, and order in a new era of policies’ changes and structural adjustment.
At the moment, the impact is emerging and noticeable as most cashier jobs are now replaced by “do it yourself” Point of Sales Services (POS).
The idea that most professionals will not be needed and a lot of trained professionals may end up unemployable is creating panics and increasing the level of anxiety across various occupations.
The good news is that AI may have little or no impact on those that are prepared for the upcoming AI and machine learning revolution. Thus, one way forward is to keep learning and undoing old knowledge in readiness for the future.
Another crucial point to note is that AI cannot completely take away jobs overnight in third world countries hence, most manufacturing companies and factories may find their way to third world regions since most third world countries are known to have cheaper labour and low cost of manufacturing goods and services.
On the other hand, manufacturing industries may have to depend on renewable energies to power most of their cost of operations as some third world countries are still having issues with generating and distributing stable electricity supply.
Automation and engineering. Source: CIO.com
One thing for sure, is that AI will not replace all human activities. For instance, AI will not replace patients seeking hospital treatments. Also, due to unforeseen defects such as software bugs, data scalability, and data consistency, etc., AI will continuously need constant human monitoring, reporting, documentation, and consistent improvements of the AI functionalities.
Although, some AI algorithms are trained to learn from their environments and adjust accordingly, which brings in the concept of Machine learning and Deep learning, the help of human monitoring and intervention will never be completely ruled out.
In cases where AI data is manipulated by a malicious user the whole system may be brought to complete halt, malfunction or cause serious damages to lives and properties hence, human agencies and different professionals will still need to provide interventions and support for AI for a long time.
Artificial Intelligence on PR professional and the journalists
In effect, professionals and individuals may need to gain additional skills set to remain functional in their job roles.
Covid-19 may signal the end of an era for day-to-day activities. Take, for instance, during this pandemic, most serious nations now moved from queue/line by line consultation in waiting rooms to see doctors to booking appointments on the phone.
Doctors in turn consults with patients on the phone. Some customer services via phones services and helplines are unmanned and the processes are fully digitalized and customers are instructed on options to choose from, and based on the options customers are directed to the right departments or services. that could better serve their interest or grant assistance.
It may get to a point where, patients may have the options as well to choose between human doctor or AI doctors due to policies backed by law.
It is difficult to conclude on the varying dimension and future of AI in effects to the advancement of a fully computerized world by looking at the trends of AI and the future of machines and the possibilities of replacing human interactions and activities.
Time and time again, another black male is brutally murdered by a police officer in America. The question that first comes to many people’s minds is, was the murder carried out by law enforcement officers racially motivated?
It is moderate to state that such claims about police brutality among racial minorities cannot be easily discarded in a jiffy due to the fact that history shows a pattern of consistency in the discussion thereof hence, it expatiates on today’s reality of policing that Slave trade, Racism, Jim crow laws, Segregation, and Black advocates (Black Lives Matters) and other minorities civil rights movements demanding for the equal treatments and justices buttress the question regarding the use of excessive force by some law enforcement officers especially in some parts of the world.
These questions cannot be completely wished away since we live in a racially polarized society.
Having written a team research paper at Memorial University in Newfoundland on juxtaposing the difference between Canadian Police and the Nigerian police in a course titled Sociology of Policing and equally took an elective course in History, titled Theme: History of America.
The history course focus on the movie industry in America, and how it sometimes portrayals visible minorities, Hispanics, and Irish as the villain in Hollywood. I end up writing a research paper on the movie titled “Do the Right Thing” by Spike Lee.
In all, it is summarized that there is definitely a connection between policing either in a third world, or otherwise as an instrument set up by the early colonials, used as tools to control, regulate, order, and deter non-conforming aberrant racial or ethnic groups.
The other course, I did, that captivate my imagination was a course on European history, where I learned a lot about the conquest and war among different europian territories, case in point, the French revolution, the fall of the Roman empire, the class struggles among different europian societies, and what Karl Max explained class alienation, class exploitation, the class struggle and relationship between the bourgeoises, and proletariate.
My research background access social sciences, politics, and history makes me wonder why ethnicity and conflict within one’s race or same religious ideologies are not well over flogged in the media compared to inter racism, antisemitism and Islamophobia.
I feel so sad about the black man murdered, George Floyd, and many other ones murdered in such a brutal way in the hands of American cops.
Many other black males in the US have also been killed in non-police racial related incidences as well. Black on black crime is also on the high side in America. I have not commented before on police brutality on black lives murdered because I feel a lot of reaction, commentaries, civil protests are already ongoing on a daily bases.
Secondly, I always do my own findings to get more clarity about the circumstances that trigger the events, and thirdly, most people usually end up in adrenaline rush, which could make one’s sentiment turn to hate speech and crime; hence, Civil protest should be done in an orderly manner by Civil leaders that believe in non-violence, civil protest, and forgiveness. Vandalism during the civil protest, should not be acceptable at all. Destroying and looting innocent people’s properties during civil protest should be highly discouraged.
Situations should be managed without allowing it to degenerates to hate crimes and hate speeches.
In the case of George Floyd, He has been handcuffed and his hands were on his back. His death was horrifying, the man pleaded for his life, he was on his back and he was not fighting back.
No question, the murder of George Floyd include the use of excessive force, I sincerely hope the judicial system will take it full course. However, there is a fine thin line between racism, hate speech, discrimination, etc, and should never be seen from one side.
We should all together condemn the lack of professionalism during arrest, detention, and when force should not be used at all.
The story could be a black cop and a black offender or white cop and white offender or between different races. In any case, we should all stand up for humanity and condemned what is not right and unjust. We should all remember that an injury to one is an injury to all.
I do recognize civil protests such as black life matters, friends and those nonblacks who associate with the movement and I acknowledge various black protests throughout American history. Civil rights movements have come a long way in America. I sincerely commend their efforts, tenacious, and resilience.
For the police officers doing a great job diligently and with human compassion. Your efforts are sincerely appreciated. Especially the community-oriented policing and other forms of policing
The media strives on people’s sentiments and treading news. I feel sometimes the media & social media propagates news on racism and the other aspects of law enforcement. I cannot think about seeing news on social media where caucasian cops murder a caucasian individual while discharging their duties or a black on black crime.
Racism, tribalism, discrimination, and hate crimes are real in every organization, country, and nation. It is just more visible with law enforcement and the criminal justice system in general because they are the first responder and are saddled with the responsibility of keeping the law. Unfortunately, these institutions cannot wish away the unfortunate events, responsibilities, and professionalism associated with discharging their primary assignment.
Every law enforcement got an obligation to constantly train, retrain their employees, and have a proper way to deal with any form of hate crime by enacting laws that encompass reconciliation, ensuring justice is served, issue of public apologies in case of wrongful arrest and forcefully detention when media is involved, introduced compensations to individuals that are terribly treated as a result of false accusation, and apology to the family of the individuals involved.
The police department should constantly ensure police officers are not stressed out, engaged in a lot of overtime, or suffer from any form of stress disorder such as PTSD.
Policing in the US can be stressful since gun violence is widespread across America. More races should be hired for effective policing and to mitigate the possibilities of work burnout.
As long as humans see from the lenses of color, and could not at least pretend to be color blind, racial profiling, ethnicity, and tribalism will not be completely ruled out in every country, race, ethnicity, and across different cultural creeds. Unfortunately, visible minorities and other minority racial groups will still remain grossly affected at the epicenter of victimization and may continue to suffer maltreatment around the globe.
I will drop my pen by adding that “We should be human first in everything we do”
*Taiwo T. Adetiloye can be reached via Twitter: @TAdetiloye
In the current era of remote work, companies that have not yet implemented unified communications as a communication platform for employees may find themselves at a disadvantage compared to their competitors who have already made the transition.
Unified communications is a technology that integrates various communication tools, including voice, video, chat, email, and more, into a unified platform. In a hybrid workplace, where employees are spread across various locations, adopting unified communications can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration.
More than just being a single tool or product, unified communications is a collection of solutions that organisations can implement to ensure that their different communication technologies work in a simplified, smooth, and secure manner.
This essentially enables collaboration among employees, as unified communication systems make it easier to share ideas quickly and enables individuals to work in groups, regardless of their physical location.
This is particularly important in a post-COVID-19 world where some people still work from home, while some have returned to an office environment, yet all need access to the same resources and latest documents in real time.
Numerous benefits
Adopting unified communications can hold many benefits for the hybrid workplace, including the flexibility it brings to the workforce – working both remotely and in an office setting – in terms of enabling employees to stay connected from wherever and whenever.
Employees can literally be anywhere in the world, on any device, and still be able to connect with their colleagues.
The flexibility of unified communications goes a long way to bridge the physical distance between individuals.
Additionally, unified communications provide individuals with their channel of choice to engage with their peers, while also enhancing a corporate culture and collaboration which facilitates the building of a unique hybrid community within an organisation.
Unified communications platform (Credit: Infobip)
Unified communications can also create personalised experiences, as every individual is different. How one person chooses to work from a remote location and the channels they prefer might differ from their peers.
However, the most important benefit of unified communications is its ability to improve productivity, which was an unexpected outcome for many companies that adopted unified communications platforms during the pandemic.
Improving work-life balance
At the same time, while improving productivity, unified communications has the potential to improve the work-life balance of employees in a hybrid workplace, as the platform can increase flexibility through mobility. With this platform, employees are no longer confined to their desks and are relieved of the need to commute for work or attend in-person meetings.
This gives individuals a valuable opportunity to reclaim time that was previously unavailable to them. They are now able to allocate this regained time to activities that hold personal significance, such as spending quality moments with their families or pursuing their hobbies and interests.
To get the most out of their unifiedcommunications platforms, organisations must ensure that they take into account the opinions, needs and expectations of their employees – the individuals who will actually be using these tools and solutions on a daily basis. Many companies leave these decisions to senior management and end up investing in solutions that do not positively impact the day-to-day activities of their employees.
Security is key
Another key consideration when adopting unifiedcommunications tools is the issue of security and the fact that unified communications platforms broaden the attack surface of organisations, making them more vulnerable to attack.
The increased risk stems from employees connecting to an organisation’s network remotely, or it might be inherent in a particular channel that has a security weakness.
To navigate these hazards, companies should ensure that employees only connect remotely via a virtual private network, which adds another layer of security. Additional security layers can also be added, including two-factor authentication and single sign-on capabilities.
Ultimately, unifiedcommunications can power the modern-day hybrid workplace by facilitating seamless communication and collaboration, increasing productivity, and improving the work-life balance for employees.
Since the CBN’s official announcement of the FX unification, several financial experts, economists, trade experts, and others have taken to different platforms to air their opinions on the subject. What is really common among these opinions is that they all have financial sustainability at heart.
The highlight of the CBN’s memo was the apex bank’s decision to liberalize the market “in terms of who can sell and who can buy. Recall that President Bola Tinubu promised to change the country’s monetary policy, restoring it to its former position as the continent’s top investment location.
In its letter, the CBN instructed banks that, with the exception of a maximum N1 bid-ask difference between the buy and sell rates, they could purchase foreign exchange from any source at any rate and sell it at any rate. The Investors and Exporters (I&E) rate, which is N750-N755/$, is presently the price at which banks can buy and sell foreign currency.
In order to provide efficient and effective price discovery in the Nigerian FX market, the Investors’ and Exporters’ FX Window is the market trading section for investors and exporters. It enables FX deals to be made at exchange rates decided based on current market conditions.
While the CBN’s unification decision comes at a time when Nigeria is in dire need of a monetary solution, the ripple impact of the decision must be assessed by all segments of the economy.
Liberalization
The CBN’s FX unification means that official and unofficial bodies could buy on the interbank market from anybody without seeking Central Bank approval.
There was a restriction on who could buy, though. The CBN states that only qualified transactions are allowed to sell foreign currency.
The CBN forbade importers from using the FX market to obtain currency for the purchase of 41 products in the middle of 2015. The list of items, which included some inputs for production, only gave broad descriptions.
Export
The CBN’s move to impose restrictions on eligible transactions is a subtly revealed signal of the central bank’s motivation to increase Nigerian exports relative to imports.
A country must harness sufficient resources for the creation of goods and services, as well as consume and export some completed goods and raw materials that cannot be produced domestically, in order to develop and raise the standard of living of its people. More Nigerians are urged to export at the current rate.
Large amounts of Nigerian exports during the 1960s and 1970s were controlled by the agriculture industry, which was a significant source of foreign income.
In March 2023, Nigeria reported a trade surplus of NGN 908.5 billion, compared to a deficit of NGN 617.1 billion in the same month the previous year. Imports decreased by 59.8% from the previous year to NGN 1,376 billion, mostly as a result of fewer purchases of other oil products (down 89.4%), manufactured goods (down 27.6%), and raw materials (down 10.7%).
As a result of steep drops in shipments of manufactured goods (-59%), energy (-73%), raw materials (-59.1%), and crude oil (-17.2%), exports declined at a slower rate of 18.7% to NGN 2,285 billion, more than offsetting gains in shipments of agricultural goods (21.9%).
The optimum moment to advocate for higher exports to raise Nigeria’s trade surplus is definitely right now.
Capital
As foreign exchange would be traded at a favorable rate under a single exchange rate, the government’s revenue from the sale of FX would rise. The foreign exchange market has more liquidity and is less uncertain under a single exchange rate regime.
The CBN would provide more exchange rate surpluses to the federation account, increasing government revenue and naira cards may be used for some overseas transactions.
In the short to medium term, it would make it easier to clean up the economy’s naira liquidity. The future outlook for inflation would improve as a result of this.
Debt
The government’s debt in naira terms will significantly increase as a result of the CBN’s FX unification. The parallel exchange rate in Nigeria is detrimental, according to David Malpass, President of the World Bank Group, as it affects upcoming debt service obligations and raises the possibility of debt distress.
Taiwo Oyedele a Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader at PwC highlighted that the debt ranged from N12 trillion to N90 trillion in Naira terms. He added that the ratio of debt to gross domestic product would rise by 5%.
Due to the aforementioned, the debt to GDP ratio will rise by roughly 5%, the cost of debt service for foreign debt will rise in line with it, and the government’s revenue will rise in naira terms, resulting in a higher tax/revenue to GDP ratio.
Crypto Trading
The value of cryptocurrencies and the USD are inversely correlated. The outperformance of the dollar is bad for cryptocurrencies because most Bitcoin trades are against the USD.
Due to the unification, P2P trades in Nigeria must be conducted using the prevailing USD exchange rate.
Larry Frank, a blockchain expert, noted that said: bitcoin price has always been determined by the black market rate, so since the black market rate didn’t change, we are good for now.”
As a trader, it is vital to be aware of how movements in the dollar can impact your holdings.
The Nigerian media monitoring and intelligence industry has witnessed significant growth and development in recent years. With the proliferation of digital media platforms, the need for monitoring and analyzing media content has become increasingly important, writes PHILIP ODIAKOSE:
However, alongside this growth, concerns have arisen regarding the lack of regulation within the industry. This article explores the urgent need for comprehensive regulations to ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical standards within the Nigerian media monitoring and intelligence sector.
Understanding Media Monitoring and Intelligence:
Media monitoring and intelligence involve the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of media content, including print (newspapers and magazines), broadcast (TV and radio), OOH (out-of-home), and digital media (websites and social media). It serves as a valuable tool for individuals, organizations, and governments to track public sentiment, manage reputation, and gain insights into media coverage. Media monitoring and intelligence agencies utilize advanced technologies, including natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, to scan and analyze vast amounts of media data.
The Unregulated Landscape:
In Nigeria, the media monitoring and intelligence industry operates without clear guidelines or oversight. This lack of regulation has led to several concerning issues. Firstly, the absence of standardized practices and methodologies raises questions about the accuracy and reliability of monitoring results.
Without established benchmarks, there is a risk of misleading or incomplete analysis, potentially compromising decision-making processes.
Secondly, the unregulated industry has allowed for the emergence of unethical practices. The absence of a code of conduct or professional standards leaves room for unethical manipulation of media data, such as cherry-picking information or distorting results to fit certain agendas. This not only undermines the integrity of media monitoring and intelligence but also jeopardizes the credibility of the entire media landscape.
Thirdly, the unregulated nature of the industry has contributed to a lack of transparency and accountability. Currently, there are no mechanisms in place to ensure that media monitoring and intelligence agencies handle data responsibly or protect individual privacy rights. This situation raises concerns about data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential misuse of personal information.
The Case for Regulation:
Regulating the Nigerian media monitoring and intelligence industry is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it would ensure the accuracy and reliability of media monitoring and intelligence services. Implementing standardized methodologies and quality control measures would enhance the credibility of the industry and increase confidence in the results provided. In recent years, some organizations such as P+ Measurement Services, have joined global associations like AMEC, FIBEP, and others, due to the absence of local regulators and associations.
Secondly, the regulation would promote ethical practices and integrity within the sector. By establishing a code of conduct and professional standards, media monitoring and intelligence agencies would be accountable for their actions, reducing the risk of biased or misleading information being disseminated. This would foster a more transparent and trustworthy media monitoring environment.
Furthermore, the regulation would safeguard individual privacy rights and protect personal data. Data protection laws and guidelines could be put in place to govern the collection, storage, and use of media data. This would prevent unauthorized access and ensure that individuals’ personal information is handled responsibly.
The Way Forward:
To achieve effective regulation, collaboration among relevant stakeholders is crucial. Media monitoring and intelligence agencies, industry associations, government bodies, and civil society organizations should come together to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework. This framework should address issues such as standardization, ethics, data protection, and privacy.
The establishment of an independent regulatory authority could play a pivotal role in overseeing and enforcing compliance within the industry. This authority would be responsible for setting guidelines, issuing licenses, conducting audits, and addressing complaints. It would also provide a platform for stakeholders to voice concerns, seek clarification, and contribute to ongoing discussions on industry practices.
Conclusion:
The Nigerian media monitoring and intelligence industry has immense potential for promoting transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. However, without adequate regulation, there is a risk of compromising these essential objectives. The urgent need for comprehensive regulations cannot be overstated.
By implementing standardized practices, ethical guidelines, and data protection measures, Nigeria can ensure that media monitoring and intelligence services are reliable and responsible tools for individuals, organizations, and the government. Through collaborative efforts and the establishment of an independent regulatory authority, the industry can thrive while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
A few years ago, I saw a post on the popular social networking site Twitter asking Nigerians what the “Nigerian Dream” means to them. Curious, I checked the comments to see what Nigerians consider the Nigerian Dream.
Most respondents said the Nigerian Dream is to get an international passport and Japa (a colloquial word to describe the trend of young and talented Nigerians leaving the country for better opportunities abroad) at all costs.
Another dominant response was that the Nigerian Dream is to secure a slice of the national cake and enrich themselves and their family at the expense of the rest of the country. Other comments were along the lines of the Nigerian Dream being to “better pass my neighbour,” implying a sense of competition or envy among neighbours who compare their living standards.
Frankly, I thought the answers were ridiculous until I pondered the question and quickly discovered there was no single Nigerian Dream articulated and deliberately sold to generations of Nigerians to incubate their aspirations and see themselves as part of a national project that is larger than them.
I am privileged to have the opportunity to travel around the world quite often. I have observed that citizens of many developed societies were born and raised into a shared national ideal that fuels their individual aspirations and helps them see the bigger picture and how their actions contribute to the building or destruction of their nation. One country has its people believe that anything is possible within their land; that anybody from anywhere can become somebody through sheer will and hard work. No ‘connections’ are needed. This principle attracts people from all over the world, including Nigeria, who are persuaded that they will make it in that country.
In the absence of such an ideal in Nigeria, citizens frame variegated, often self-centred and conflicting goals detrimental to national harmony, patriotism, and development. However, this is not a citizen problem.
It is a leadership gap that has gone unaddressed for decades, breeding pervasive cynicism among Nigerians.
“To build a nation where peace and justice reigns” ends the second verse of our national anthem, and I reckon, could be a good anchor for a national dream that represents the shared goals, values, and aspirations of Nigerians, serving as a unifying force, guiding the nation’s efforts, and shaping its future direction. But peace and justice have eluded Nigerians.
Democracy was supposed to help usher in a national dream that encompasses ideals of progress, prosperity, equality, and societal well-being for Nigerians because democracy is a government of the people, by the people, for the people. Nigerians do not believe they are in a democracy, and the just-concluded elections proved as much. Widespread voter suppression, ethnic baiting, flagrant results manipulations, and the usurpation of the clear will of the people have deepened the disillusionment Nigerians feel about their country. People are abandoning their fatherland to “japa” abroad.
Almost daily, young Nigerians place a demand on me to pray for them as they relocate to other climes: incredibly talented professionals and students who could have helped shape and build a progressive Nigeria. Countries with an established national dream have gained them. If there was a Nigerian Dream those young Nigerians connected to that powers their aspirations and that the Nigerian state is actively building and promoting, they would be here making sure it is realised against all odds. Because we have none of that, we lose people, skills, innovation, and progress!
Will our leaders ask themselves, “What is the Nigerian Dream?” Will they create one that is inclusive and draws on the strength of our diversity to propose a united and progressive nation every Nigerian feels proud of and loyal to? Will it be business as usual? And will Nigeria continue to be a country where anything goes, and everybody looks to bleed until it can no longer sustain any form of life? This democracy day should be a time of reflection, especially for our political leaders.
No country develops without a national dream that reflects the people’s hopes and aspirations and provides a sense of purpose and identity for the nation.
Nigerians are resilient and have a strong “can do” spirit. We need to design a national ideal that nurtures their strength and helps them channel their grit and excellence to endeavours that move the country forward. As we step into a new political dispensation, I urge the leaders to rethink the Nigerian idea and propose a Nigerian Dream that restores faith in our democracy, fuels our aspirations and devotion to the nation, guides our economic development, social justice, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and technological advancements, and inspires future generations.
Happy Democracy Day, Nigerians. May our democracy flourish and may Nigeria prosper.
Godman Akinlabiis a preacher, author, and leadership expert inspiring individuals, organisations, and governments to attain their potential.
Following the recent suspension of Godwin Emefiele, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi, who served as the Deputy in charge of the Operations Directorate, has been appointed to act in his position temporarily.
The decision to suspend Governor Emefiele was made by President Bola Tinubu and was announced through a statement issued by Willie Bassey, the Director of Information at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The suspension is a result of an ongoing investigation and a planned financial sector reform. As per the law, one of the deputy governors must complete Emefiele’s tenure, which is set to expire in May 2024.
While the central bank has four deputy governors, Shonubi was chosen over Aishah Ahmed, Edward Adamu, and Kingsley Obiora for the acting governor role.
Shonubi, who assumed the position of Operations Directorate on October 17, 2018, was born on March 7, 1962, and obtained his education at the University of Lagos. He earned a BSc in mechanical engineering from 1978 to 1983, followed by an MSc in the same field.
After working as a consultant engineer at Mek-ind Associates from 1984 to 1989, he transitioned to the field of finance and completed an MBA program.
Shonubi ventured into the IT industry, which greatly influenced his career. He held positions such as a marketing executive at Inlaks Computers Ltd from 1989 to 1990 and head of treasury operations at Citibank Nigeria Ltd in 1990.
Throughout his career, he held various roles, including supervising consultant at Agusto & Co. Ltd and deputy general manager of banking operations and IT at MBC International Ltd. He also served as vice president of operations and information technology at First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Ltd and executive director of operations and information technology at Ecobank Nigeria Plc.
Shonubi’s experience also extends to serving as director of information technology and corporate services at Renaissance Securities Nigeria Ltd, as well as executive director of operations, technology, and services at Union Bank of Nigeria Ltd from 2009 to 2012.
Before his appointment to the CBN in October 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari, he held the position of Managing Director and CEO of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).
With the absence of a new CBN governor or the unlikely recall of Emefiele, who was suspended by Tinubu on Friday night, Shonubi currently holds the crucial role of leading the monetary affairs of Africa’s largest economy.
In a recent press statement, Isa Ali Pantami, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, shamelessly proclaimed that he single-handedly raised the ministry’s quarterly revenue from a meager N51.3 million to a staggering N408.7 billion.
This audacious claim, however, has been debunked by fact-checkers, exposing Pantami’s desperate attempt to rewrite history and secure a comeback as a minister under the new administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The fact-check by the Cable Online Newspaper, however, provides an insight into Pantami’s pattern of deception, his habitual use of unverified statistics and dubious accomplishments throughout his career.
Pantami’s ascent to the position of Minister of Communications and Digital Economy was not surprising considering his track record of manipulating unverified statistics during his tenure as the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Pantami would proudly claim to have saved the government billions of Naira without ever providing credible evidence or allowing independent verification of his alleged accomplishments.
It is a disheartening reality that such misleading claims went unchallenged, allowing him to perpetuate his deceptive tactics.
During his time at NITDA, Pantami presented himself as a champion of cost-saving measures and technological advancements. However, the lack of transparency and verifiable evidence behind his claims raises serious doubts about the actual impact of his initiatives.
The Nigerian public deserves factual information and honest assessments, not mere rhetoric and baseless assertions.
Pantami’s recent assertion of raising the ministry’s quarterly revenue from a paltry N51.3 million to an astonishing N408.7 billion exemplifies his desperation to regain power.
The sheer audacity of this claim cannot be ignored, especially when fact-checkers, such as The Cable newspaper, swiftly revealed its falsehood. Pantami’s brazen attempt to deceive the public and bolster his image for personal gain is indicative of a man driven by self-interest, rather than genuine concern for the welfare of the nation.
It is important to emphasize that false claims about revenue generation not only mislead the public but also cast doubt on the overall credibility of the government and its ability to effectively manage public funds. Nigerians deserve leaders who can demonstrate transparency and accountability in financial matters, rather than resorting to grandiose yet unverified statements to further their own agendas.
Yet, the motivation behind Pantami’s blatant lies becomes evident when considering his desperate bid for a ministerial position in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
As a minister, Pantami would have the opportunity to exercise his influence and continue his deceptive practices and the regulatory capture of agencies under his supervision. His calculated attempt to inflate his achievements demonstrates a willingness to manipulate the truth, all in the pursuit of political favor and personal gain.
Pantami’s track record of using unverified statistics to bolster his image raises concerns about his integrity and suitability for public office. But we all know how his desperation to become use the title of “Professor” led to a serious standoff with ASUU which flatly rejected the appointment as fraudulent. Pantami has continued to shamelessly use the unmerited title to massage his inflated ego.
The Nigerian government therefore should prioritize the appointment of individuals who have a proven track record of transparency, honesty, and genuine dedication to the public interest.
The appointment of individuals based on their propensity for manipulation and deception only serves to undermine public trust in the government and hampers the nation’s progress.
Pantami’s use of unverified statistics and deceptive tactics carries significant consequences. Such behavior erodes public trust and undermines the integrity of public office.
When individuals entrusted with positions of power distort facts to suit their agendas, the entire nation suffers. The reliance on false claims to advance one’s his social climbing career only perpetuates a culture of dishonesty and hinders the progress and development of the country.
