LIST OF NIGERIAN GOVERNORS

STATE CURRENT GOVERNOR DEPUTY GOVERNOR YEAR ELECTED PHONE

Abia State Okezie Ikpea zu Ude Oko C hukwu 2015 08053387018

Adamawa State Bindo Jibri lla Martin Babale 2015 08033118844

Akwa Ibom State Udom Gabriel Emmanu el Mose s Ekpo 2015 08126018478

Anambra State Willie Obian o Dr. Nkem Okeke 2017 07030008855

Bauchi State Mohammed Abdullahi Abubak ar Nuhu Gidado 2015 08033413091

Bayelsa State Henry Dickso n Gboribiogha John Jonah 2011 08033422268, 08084673265

Benue State Samuel Orto m Benson A bounu 2015 08091573337

Borno State Kashim Shettim a Usman Mamman D urkwa 2011 07065723266

Cross River State Benedict Ayad e Iva ra Esu 2015

Delta State Ifeanyi Okow a Kingsley Otuaro 2015 08056056056, 07034081144

Ebonyi State Dave Uma hi Eric Kelech i Igwe 2015

Edo State Godwin Obase ki Philip S huaibu 2016

Ekiti State kayode Fayem i Adebisi A. Egbeyemi 2018 08055556655

Enugu State Ifeanyi Ugwuan yi Cecilia Ezeilo 2015 08033129554

Gombe State Ibrahim Hassan Dankwamb o Charle s Illiya 2011 08059703224

Imo State Owelle Rochas Okoroch a Prince Eze Mad u mere 2011 07067777077

Jigawa State Badaru Abubak ar Ibrahim Hassan H adejia 2015 08092241417

Kaduna State Nasir Ahmad el-Ruf ai Yusuf Barnaba s B ala 2015 08182222226

Kano State Abdullahi Umar Gandu je Hafiz Ab ubakar 2015 08037862149

Katsina State Aminu Bello Masa ri Mannir Y akubu 2015 08035555888

Kebbi State Abubakar Atiku Bagud u Samaila Yombe D abai 2015 07030152466, 08063496033

Kogi State Yahaya Be llo Simon A chuba 2016 08189679462

Kwara State Abdulfatah Ahme d Pete r Kisira 2011 08033619883

Lagos State Akinwunmi Ambod e Oluranti A debule 2015 08092015444

Nasarawa State Umaru Tanko Al-Maku ra Silas Al i Agara 2011 08031861940

Niger State Abubakar Sani Be llo Ahmed Muhammad Ketso 2015 08032000008

Ogun State Ibikunle Oyelaja Amosu n Yetunde On anuga 2011 08033213993, 08068965500

Ondo State Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredo lu Agbool a Ajayi 2016

Osun State Rauf Aregbeso la Grace Titilayo Laoye- Tomori 2010 08024537105, 08027789181

Oyo State Isiaka Abiola Ajimo bi Moses Alake Ad e yemo 2011 08100000004

Plateau State Simon Lalon g Sonni Gwanle T yoden 2015 08037036108

Rivers State Ezenwo Nyesom Wi ke Ipalibo Banigo 2015 08039600009

Sokoto State Aminu Waziri Tambuw al Ahma d Aliyu 2015 08033155496

Taraba State Arch. Darius Ishaku Haruna Manu 2015

Yobe State Ibrahim Geida m Abuba kar Ali 2011 08020655557

Zamfara State Abdul-Aziz Yari Abubak ar Ibrahim W akkala 2011 08033412454

01 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK The World Takes Notice Of Nigeria’s Progress

We Are Encouraged By Nigeria’s Growth – World Bank T E A M

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF he World Bank Group has expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Olatunji OKE Nigerian economy as it continues on the path to growth. The DEPUTY EDITOR Felix OGWEZI Tcommendation was contained in a statement after the conclusion of a visit to Nigeria by some Executive Directors of the bank. The visit was to enable the bank’s CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Adeshina OYETAYO management team get a better understanding of Nigeria’s development priorities with Abdul IMOYO a special focus on the energy sector. They also came to assess interventions on the Victor GANZALLO Mac DURUGBO ground, and offer support opportunities that will keep the country on a path of FEATURES EDITOR sustained development. Olufemi OMOTAYO

TOURISM EDITOR They commended Nigeria’s implementation of its Economic Recovery and Growth Pelu AWOFESO

Plan (ERGP) and the Power Sector Recovery Plan (PSRP), both of which are EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS important for regional integration. It will also ensure trade and capital flows, which will Dozie ATUEYI Sam ADEOYE ultimately lead to greater growth. Nigeria’s central role in its regional strategy for Sub- Kola POPOOLA

Saharan Africa is known to all. More so, Nigeria has been one of International Finance ONLINE EDITOR Corporation (IFC)’s fastest growing portfolios, representing IFC’s fifth largest global Abimbola ADAMS country exposure, with a committed volume of 1.6 billion dollars. ADMINISTRATION Thomas-Olumuyiwa ABAYOMI

Also, Nigeria is the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)’s fifth largest ACCOUNTS Kayode ADEBAMOWO country exposure in Sub-Saharan Africa, with current exposure of 334 million dollars. The Nigeria Country Partnership Strategy extending to 2019 has an investment of 8.8 CORPORATE AFFAIRS AUGUST 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 Oluseye Olawole AKINBOWALE billion dollars through the International Development Association and International Babajide OBAFEMI

Bank for Reconstruction and Development. STAFF REPORTERS 2 Lawrence AKINBILE Edafe OGHENEBRUME In Search Of Nigeria’s One sector that is enjoying substantial growth is the agricultural sector. A victim of the Jennifer EMENGO Showcasing Nigeria’s Stance Partnership - UK’s Theresa oil boom, agriculture is enjoying a steady rise again with an influx of foreign and local On Global Matters - President CREATIVE DIRECTOR May Visits Nigeria 4 investment as well as fruitful government participation. Similarly, the remarkable Anjola O. TOBI Buhari At UNGA73 development of the non-oil sector has seen it provide up to 50 percent of the country’s ART DIRECTOR annual budgeted revenue. Continuous development in these sectors has the potential Ajagunna TOLULOPE 22 of weaning the country of oil revenue which continues to dictate the direction of the SPECIAL PROJECTS Otegbola O. KOLA economy till today. Sunmibola ALUKO President Buhari At The INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: Olawunmi ABIONA Women Political Aspirants Today Clearly Is A Better Taiwo OSHO 18 As you will read in this edition of The Nigeria Indicator, a lot of countries seem to have Lateef TALABI Advocacy Summit In Abuja Story Than 2015 - Fashola Yemi Sowande taken notice of the efforts of the current administration to reposition the country for sustainable growth. From President Muhammadu Buhari’s outing at UNGA73, his CIRCULATION Olukayode KOLAWOLE trip to China, as well as the visits by the British Prime Minister and the German Olakunle OSENI 36 Ibukun ABEGUNDE Chancellor, the horizon looks good for the country. You will also see the exemplary visit Micheal ATSENUWA Over N40bn Approved RURAL ELECTRIFICATION by a cleric to Aso Rock with the visit of Pastor W.F. Kumuyi. Adeniyi Williams ADEWUYI For Universities, Retirees AGENCY: Doing Great Things PHOTOGRAPHY Of Nigeria Airways 28 For The Power In Sector Nigeria This edition will surely satisfy your information needs about Nigeria. Rabiu SAHEED We promise you to a wonderful treat. Happy reading! OFFICE WELFARE / LOGISTICS Kingsley ANIEFIOK THE NIGERIA INDICATOR Is Produced By FIRST RED AFRICA PRODUCTIONS. SPECIAL PHOTO CREDITS Free downloads of Lukman OLAONIPEKUN (LUKESH) 7A, Alhaji Bankole Crescent, ABC Bus-Stop, Plot 1551, Arochukwu Close, Off Arochukwu Street The Nigeria Indicator Bayo OMOBORIOWO Off Adeniyi Jones - Ikeja, Lagos. BY Muhammadu Buhari Way, Garki 2, Area II, magazine available Sunday AGHAEZE Olatunji Oke E-mail: [email protected] FCT - Abuja. 0809.900.0610, 0805.202.6218 Sesan ADEBOYEJO (SESCO- LOVE) w w w . n i g e r i a i n d i c a t o r . c o m Editor-In-Chief THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 02 03 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR THERESA MAY'S VISIT TO NIGERIA

British Prime Minister business community before she Theresa May recently departed to Kenya. embarked on a three-day, Observers say that, rather than three-African-country trade travelling outside the Commonwealth visit to Nigeria, South Africa to look for business finance and and Kenya. investment, Nigerians should engage in bilateral trade relationship with the he purpose of the visit was UK. That way, the country could learn to seek to reinvigorate the from UK best trade practices that Tpolitical, economic and could entice other nations. cultural ties among the former three colonies of Britain. The PM’s visit was A First In A While essentially to court the three African As she landed in Nigeria, Theresa May countries on trade relationships and said: “I’m delighted to be able to be economic dealings that would be of here in Abuja and to continue the very substantial benefits to Britain after good discussions we had when you quitting the European Union. were in London in April. As you say we already have very good cooperation In Abuja, Prime Minister May was between the UK and Nigeria which greeted with a tumultuous welcome. include education, defence, security She was later received by President and trade relations.” M u h a m m a d u B u h a r i i n t h e Presidential Villa where both Britain “We are ready to cooperate and Nigeria signed two bilateral together on global and regional agreements – Defence & Security P a r t n e r s h i p a n d E c o n o m i c issues; to strengthen that Development Forum. Thereafter, cooperation and partnership, I Theresa May flew into Lagos where have with me a business she met the Lagos State Governor, delegation, as we look to Akinwunmi Ambode and the Nigerian enhance our ties in future and explore more trading opportunities.

In Search Of Analysts have described Theresa May’s visit to Africa as “very important”, being the first to visit the President continent since 2013. Narendra Modi, Muhammadu Buhari Nigeria’s Partnership India’s Prime Minister, Recep with the British Prime Minister Theresa May Erdogan, President of Turkey, and Xi during the visit of the British Prime Minister Jinping, President of China, have all to the Presidential - UK’s Theresa May Visits Nigeria made African forays since June, 2018. Villa in Abuja. Emmanuel Macron, President of

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 04 05 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR THERESA MAY'S VISIT TO NIGERIA

Renewed relations with African states can be seen as an important part of the Britain’s efforts to shore up its international relevance and influence after it leaves the European Union. The Commonwealth Development Council is the largest single investor in private equity funds in Africa, and the UK retains a reputation for pushing the envelope of smart development assistance.

Working To Curb Illegal Migration Prime Minister May’s visit was the United Kingdom’s attempt to strengthen relations with Africa ahead of Britain’s ride to Brexit in March 2019. Above all, it was also to signal to Africa that the UK would fasten its immigration laws and policies against The visiting Prime Minister, Theresa May inspecting the guard of honour. illegal migration.

takes effect, the UK will no longer Britain’s impending exit from the poverty, but how can we ensure there is billion aid to Africa. In 2016, UK entertain illegal immigrants. European Union has caused anxiety a long, longer term element by invested £42.7bn in Africa, as against Therefore, Nigeria has to deal with the over an uncertain future for the rest of working with governments and others £44.3bn by US, £38bn by France and rising level of poverty among its Europe as well as for the UK. Britain is to ensure good government in stability £31bn by China. President Buhari receives in Official Visit British Prime Minister Theresa May in State House, in those fragile states… (It is also population. Abuja. exiting from the Union in order to untie its economy from what she meant) to support a major new crack Part of the visit, according to Mrs Apparently, Brexit has compelled the Also, it has to tackle Nigerians’ France, has visited the continent three considers to be some strangulating EU down on illicit finance and organised May, is to “cooperate to fight UK to focus on neglected partnerships insatiable appetite for travels to the UK times since November 2017. rules that open European gates to a crime, deploying expertise in financial corruption and lifting people out and new alliances – a point in search of greener pastures. Nigeria deluge of unwanted immigrants. centres around the world” – and to of poverty.” The British PM’s trip is seen as an undoubtedly pressed in May’s counter “illegal migration, modern should imitate Britain by rising from interactions with African leaders at the being a beggar-nation to an important signal of renewed British As an attempt to curtail immigration, slavery and trafficking in people.” “Much of Nigeria is thriving, with C o m m o n w e a l t h H e a d s o f independent one – just as Britain political and economic interest in May wanted to provide support that many individuals enjoying the fruits of Government Summit in April. wants to assert its sovereignty with Africa. There has been a comparative would not only help to protect the She pledged that the United Kingdom a resurgent economy, yet 87 million Brexit. decline in the UK’s visibility in many vulnerable people in Africa but to also would assist Nigeria in the fight Nigerians live below $1 and 90 cents a In other words, African influence in parts of the continent over the last help crack down on illegal migration against terrorists as well as human day, making it home to more very poor global affairs should not be decade, just as many other states, and organised crime. trafficking. “We will also be looking to Investing to End people than any other nation in the including France, Turkey, China and underestimated – because where work together to step up efforts against Poverty world…It is in the world’s interest to African governments can achieve a Japan, have been upgrading their The aid regime on defence and security threats from Boko Haram, see that those jobs are created, to tackle common position, they can be a Theresa May added that she wanted Africa engagement. A planned trip by security she pledged to Nigeria was human trafficking and the likes,” she the causes and symptoms of extremism powerful force, as African support for Britain to become the biggest of the G7 David Cameron was cancelled in 2016 “not just what we can do to help the said. and instability, to deal with migration the Paris climate change agreement investors in Africa by 2022. On the with just five days’ notice because of most vulnerable people across the Theresa May’s visit was a reminder to flows and to encourage clean growth.” showed. three-nation visit, she had pledged £4 the Brexit referendum and its results. world and help lifting people out of Nigeria’s leaders that when Brexit

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 06 07 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR THERESA MAY'S VISIT TO NIGERIA

President Buhari and Prime Minister Theresa May witnessing the signing of Bilateral agreement as he receives in official visit British Prime Minister in State House. President Buhari with the visiting UK Prime Minister Theresa May in a bilateral meeting at the State House, Abuja. enabling business environment for “We are already partnering with attracting investments, through the Nigeria in the area of green financing. establishment of the Presidential The Prime Minister has announced Enabling Business Environment new partnerships with the Nigerian Council, PEBEC. Government worth 70 million British pounds which are expected to create She expressed the commitment of the over 100,000 jobs in the country,” she Federal Government to further said. She added that the UK’s bilateral improve on the business environment trade relationship with Nigeria was and sustain existing reforms to President Buhari and Prime Minister Theresa May witnessing the signing of Bilateral agreement on currently worth £4.2bn per annum. consolidate the gains of the economy Nigerian Trade Development by Nigerian Minister of State Budget & National planning Hajia Zainab Ahmed and British Minister of State for Trade Policy George Hollingbery, MP. through the deepening of the sub- Meanwhile, Nigeria’s former Minister national Ease of Doing Business of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, used project. the occasion of the PM’s visit to urge investors from the United Kingdom to She said: “There are lots of business President Buhari in a handshake with the British Prime Minister Theresa May take advantage of the improved opportunities in Nigeria and the during the official visit by the British Prime Minister in State House. business environment in Nigeria to government is addressing assiduously invest in key sectors of the economy. the impediments to ease of doing jobs,” Adeosun said. provided by the Department for business in Nigeria.” “This will make International Development, DFID Mrs Adeosun said the administration it easier for businesses to grow and Also, the Minister of Power, Works and UKAID, called for more business of President Muhammadu Buhari had contribute to sustainable economic and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, partnerships between Nigeria and taken a bold step in creating an activity in the country as well as create who commended the support Britain.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 08 09 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR ANGELA MERKEL'S VISIT Germany Seeks Business Opportunities President Muhammadu Buhari played host to the In Nigeria German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the last - As Angela Merkel Leads Delegation leg of her trip to three African countries, Senegal and Ghana being the others.

he smiling leaders appeared at ease as they met for talks Tthat are set to focus on boosting economic development and curbing migration to Europe.

A delegation of business leaders and potential investors accompanied the chancellor during her to trip in an effort to encourage investment in western Africa. Merkel said that economic cooperation between Germany and Nigeria would be expanded and pointed to the planned production of Volkswagen cars in Attracting Medium- The backbone of the German Business Environment Council. The the agricultural sector to create MoUs were signed between both Africa, DW's correspondent in Abuja Size Investments economy is essentially made up of German Government is also doing prosperity for Nigerians, especially, for countries. Those in attendance were reported. m e d i u m - s i z e , f a m i l y- o w n e d everything to push out their small and young people. Nigerian Ambassador to Germany, Angela Merkel’s visit focused on businesses. Concerns about how to medium- scale businesses to take their Yusuf Tuggar, as well as top officials of enhancement of economic relations “This, too, is an de-risk their investments require place in an increasingly globalised MoUs Highlight the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory and security between the two cooperation and support by both world. Commission (NERC) and other important step," the Merkel’s Visit countries. Nigeria has strong governments to facilitate the government agencies. chancellor said. "It is an economic relations with Germany investment and minimise risk. Nigeria wants to take advantage of the During the visit, the German team example for many more over the years, yet one of the major areas Germany has comparative held a meeting with the Nigerian At the meeting, a Memorandum of challenges in recent times has been This appears to fit into Nigeria’s advantage. Some German companies delegation led by the Minister of Understanding was signed between possible economic how to attract German medium-size Economic Recovery and Growth Plan are interested in Nigerian agriculture Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr the German-African Business partnerships." businesses to invest in Nigeria. (ERGP) and the Presidential Enabling sector. This is about how to strengthen Okechukwu Enelamah. A number of Association and the Nigerian

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 10 11 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR ANGELA MERKEL'S VISIT

are returning to their villages and towns and begin to The German Chancellor Angela normalise their means of livelihood, which is mostly farming Merkel (CDU) with President Muhammadu Buhari, addressing a and trading, there is a need for global support to rebuild press conference at the State House. communities.

Association of Chambers of Nigeria, largest economy on the African continent is also the Commerce, Industry, Mines and main country of origin for migrants who are seeking to travel Agriculture (NACCIMA). to Germany and other European countries across the Mediterranean. Although migration has been one of the main Another agreement was signed focuses of Merkel's visit, the number of people crossing the between the Nigeria Incentive-Based Mediterranean is at its lowest in five years. Risk Sharing System for Agricultural

Lending (NIRSAL) and Petkus Some European leaders hope that by encouraging security and Technologie GmbH. The partnership investment in western Africa, people will be more likely to is meant to grow large scale agriculture remain in a region currently impacted by extremist attacks, of both countries. unemployment and the detrimental effects of climate change. At the briefing, President Buhari told the German Chancellor Addressing Security, that his administration was not in support of illegal migration. Migration Issues He said, “I’m against my countrymen and women who Security issues, particularly in north illegally find their way to other countries. “We do not, as an east also featured in the discussion administration, agree that Nigerians should defy the desert between the two leaders. Indeed, the and the Mediterranean because they feel that there are greener Oslo ‘2’ Conference which aims to pastures over there. We do not support anything illegal and raise fund to address the humanitarian indiscipline.” The President later hosted the German crisis in the north east would take place The German Business Team and Nigerian Government Officials signing the two Memorandum Chancellor and her delegation to lunch following the end of the in Germany in September. As people of Understanding (MOU) in Agriculture and Commerce in the State House. conference.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 12 13 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR NIGERIAN NUCLEAR REGULATORY AUTHORITY NIGERIAN NUCLEAR REGULATORY AUTHORITY nuclear and other radioactive material security. Nigeria has developed and commenced comprehensive review and updating of the existing nuclear security regulations as well as THREE YEARS OF PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI drafting of new ones to ensure the safety and security of nuclear materials and other radioactive sources.

ADMINISTRATION ACHIEVEMENTS IN NUCLEAR The Nigerian Safe Transport of Radioactive Materials Regulations; Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources SAFETY, SECURITY AND SAFEGUARDS Regulations; System of Accounting for and Control of Nuclear Material; and the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials and Nuclear Facilities; are at various stages of completion of review and updating. With the changing nature of global and national In this series titled Agents/Agencies of Some Of The Notable Achievements Under President threats, Nigeria in conjunction with relevant stakeholders is Change, we shall be chronicling the Muhammadu Buhari-Led Administration In Three currently reviewing the Design Basis Threat (DBT) developed Professor L. A. Dim, fnip Years Are Presented Below: achievements and activities of the President in 2012. This is aimed at guiding holders of nuclear and Director General/CEO i. Commitment to International Nuclear Security radiological materials on the appropriate physical protection Muhammadu Buhari administration from Regime. President Muhammadu Buhari, joined world leaders systems to be put in place. and comprehensive reports will be forwarded to the IAEA the perspectives of Ministries, Departments at the World Nuclear Security Summmit held in Washington accordingly. and Agencies and their heads who share the on 1st April 2016 where he affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to In the area of performance of Oversight, Nigeria undertakes the global fight against the threat of nuclear terrorism and other regular security inspections of facilities to ensure that materials Nigeria conducts regular inspection of the 234 legacy sources at President’s vision and ideals of change, and forms of terrorism in all their manifestations, and Nigeria’s are secured. The inspections are regular and routine in nature Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited to guarantee their security are helping to bring them to reality for the support to multilateral efforts to advance a common approach and the inspectors are benefitting from requisite training. To pending their transfer to a temporary Radioactive Waste betterment of Nigerians and humanity. and commitment to nuclear security at the highest level. this end, Nigeria has established a Nuclear Security Support Management Facility, prior to the efforts in a more definitive Centre which is aimed at enhancing human capacity manner to repatriate them to their country of origin. At the Nigeria accords high priority to all global efforts towards development in the area of nuclear security. The Centre same time, regular inspection is conducted on the disused igeria makes extensive use of radiation sources in ending the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and continues to actively interact with the International Atomic radioactive sources located at the Temporary Waste medical and industrial applications as well as in their means of delivery, including nuclear weapons. To this Energy Agency (IAEA) and other relevant international Management Facility. Efforts are also being made for their final Nscience and research. The country also has a end, Nigeria has strengthened the legal framework for fighting organizations to develop and undertake training programmes repatriation to their countries of origin. research reactor used for the analysis of materials and training. terrorism through the adoption of an amendment to its for stakeholder organizations in 2016 and beyond. This Centre Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has decided to include Terrorism (Prevention) Act, ensuring the implementation of of Excellence is intended to serve Nigeria and sub-Sahara Nigeria undertakes regular inspection of NIRR-1 and supports nuclear power in its energy mix to meet an increasing demand more robust counter-terrorism measures in the country. Africa. IAEA safeguard inspection of the facility. Nigeria conducts for electricity and support economic development. Nigeria has various training and retraining programmes for its Frontline been strengthening its nuclear power infrastructure for several Nigeria remains committed to continue demonstrating strong At the same time, Nigeria has developed a programme for Officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, years. support for the global nuclear security architecture. Nigeria has search and secure of orphan and legacy radioactive sources. Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Police Force, State Security ratified the Amended Convention on the Physical Protection The programme has been established with the ultimate aim of Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Fire Service, The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) of Nuclear Materials (CPPNM/A); and the International identifying, securing and recovering vulnerable orphan and Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, Nigeria Ports Authority established by the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Act Convention for the Suppressions of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism legacy radioactive sources in the country and to ensure that they and the Defence Headquarters of the Nigerian Armed Forces. 19, 1995 is empowered to ensure nuclear safety, security and (ICSANT) and working to domesticate this into are secured to prevent unauthorized access by terrorists and Frontline Officers are also nominated to attend IAEA safeguards and to ensure the protection of life, health, property comprehensive nuclear law; and is engaged in a process, criminals. The Search and Secure programme is a yearly organized training courses on Illicit trafficking/border and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing together with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), exercise. The latest exercise was conducted in monitoring, nuclear security, physical protection of nuclear radiation. relating to the conversion of its miniature neutron source November/December 2015 in three geopolitical zones of and radiological facilities to make them respond to reactor (NIRR-1)from the use of Highly Enriched Uranium Nigeria, and efforts are on-going to acquire more equipment unauthorized acts involving nuclear and other radioactive In keeping with the constitutional responsibility, the (HEU) to Low Enriched Uranium (LEU), keeping in mind and expertise to ensure efficiency and sustainability of the materials. administration of President Muhammadu Buhari through the that minimizing the use of HEU remains an important goal of programme. Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority ensures that Nigerians the Nuclear Security Summit (NSS). Nigeria is committed to Nigeria installed its first Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) at are safe and protected from the harmful effects of ionizing the completeness of that process latest by 3rd quarter of 2018 The survey of Depleted Uranium (DU) which commenced in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos in 2008 radiation while allowing the beneficial uses of ionizing under the watch of President Muhammadu Buhari. 2011 is an on ongoing programme with the latest exercise and put into operation in April 2009. The RPM was donated by radiation and that Nigeria meets its national and international conducted in November/December, 2015. Nigeria has the IAEA and meant to prevent accidental or undeclared import obligations in Nuclear Safety, Security Safeguards and Nigeria has taken a number of steps necessary for compiled and submitted earlier reports to the International and export of radioactive sources as well as checking illicit Radiation Protection. strengthening nuclear security architecture by building up its Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The programme is continuing trafficking of nuclear materials.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 14 15 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR NIGERIAN NUCLEAR REGULATORY AUTHORITY Three more RPMs have since been procured and discussions Framework for safety against IAEA safety standards as the & guides, and inspection activities were carried out under the are on-going with the manufacturer for the purpose of international benchmark for safety. Buhari-led administration in order to ensure safety and installing them at strategic ports of entry into the country. A security of Nigerians from the harmful effects of ionizing Research Reactor at CERT, Zaria, and the Radiotherapy specific airport is designated for import and export of nuclear The team recognized that Nigeria is committed to radiation. These include: facilities in Nigeria and the repatriation of some high-risk and radioactive material. Effort is being made to cover all points improving safety and informing people, protecting • Institution of effective nuclear regulatory control radioactive sources from Nigeria. of entry into the Country during the tenure of President regime on the use of radioactive materials by Oil and Gas people and the environment from the handful effects Muhammadu Buhari. Industries/IOC for petroleum prospecting in the country. • Continuous update of Radiological Safety National of ionizing radiation. • Assessment of Nigeria’s preparedness for Nuclear Data Bank - Conventional X-ray, CT Scanners, To enhance Nuclear Security, Nigeria has reinforced its Power Programme (NPP) through Integrated Nuclear Mammography Units, Brachytherapy Machines, Cobalt-60 cooperation with the IAEA; United States Department of The report of this mission had been submitted to the Federal Infrastructure Review (INIR) Mission with International Sources and Linear Accelerators for Cancer Treatment. State’s Partnership for Nuclear Security (PNS); and the World Government of Nigeria. It is noteworthy that Vice-President Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA’s). Institute for Nuclear Security (WINS); to mention a few. Yemi Osibanjo during the visit of the IRRS team to the State • Successful work-process evaluation with IAEA’s Self- • Nigeria participated in the 7th Review Meeting of the Nigeria actively participate in the WINS professional House reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to nuclear energy as Assessment Regulatory Infrastructure for Safety (SARIS) Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS) in March/April 2017 Certification programmes in which Nigerian nuclear the best option in view of the unpredictability of fossil fuel with Software tool to independently assess regulatory performance during which challenges as well as an area of good performance professionals particularly the NNRA Staff have put the name the attendant green house gas emission/effects. consistent with international best practices prior to IAEA were identified. Nigeria is working hard to satisfy all the of Nigeria on the world map in this area. Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) Mission. conditions required for nuclear safety. iii. Establishment of a Robust Nuclear and Radiological • Satisfactory evaluation of NNRA’s regulatory Nigeria is collaborating with Oak Ridge National Laboratory Emergency Preparedness and Response Arrangements. An performance / work-process assessment in consistent with • Nigeria participated in the 6th Review Meeting of the (ORNL) of the United States of America to implement a Emergency Preparedness Review (EPREV) mission was international best practices by IAEA’s experts’ delegation to Joint Convention on Safety of Spent Fuel Management and Human Reliability Programme (HRP) for the Nigerian conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Nigeria during the IAEA Integrated Regulatory Review Service Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (JC) in May/June nuclear industry. A pilot HRP programme is being developed at in the Federal Republic of Nigeria from in June 2015 by a team (IRRS) Mission with one good practice identified. 2018 during which challenges as well as areas of good the Centre for Energy Research and Training, ABU Zaria, and of international nuclear experts from five countries and the • Successful review of the Nuclear Safety, Security and performance were identified. Nigeria is working hard to satisfy is being facilitated by the ORNL with support from IAEA. Safeguards Bill (Bill) extant Act in preparation for oversight all the conditions required for spent fuel management and Partnership for Nuclear Security (PNS) and the NNRA. The function of the NPP, which was passed by the seventh House of radioactive waste safety. programme is expected to be replicated at other high risk EPREV missions are designed to provide a peer review of Representatives and awaiting the concurrence of the Senate. nuclear and radiological facilities in the country. emergency preparedness and response (EPR) arrangements in • Conduct of radiological assessment of radioactive • The NNRA through its efforts to strengthen its a country based on the IAEA safety standards. The purpose of material (Caesium – 137) contamination of Delta Steel regulatory frame work became an active recipient Country of Nigeria has signed an agreement of cooperation with the the EPREV mission was to conduct a review of the Nigerian Company and its surrounding environment. the Regulatory Cooperative Forum during the 10th Meeting United States Department of Energy (US-DOE) Office of nuclear and radiological EPR arrangements and capabilities, • Conduct of radiological assessment of alleged death of the RCF held in Brussels, Belgium, 26 – 28 June 2018, the Radiological Security (ORS). The objectives of this with the consideration that Nigeria is embarking on a nuclear of several people due to exposure to suspected substances country is now eligible to receive RCF support from providers cooperation are: to reduce and protect vulnerable nuclear and power programme. believed to be radioactive sources in Adamawa State (Michika to build a robust regulatory system. This is against the backdrop other radioactive material located at civilian sites; remove and Local Government) which was found out to be false. that Nigeria has demonstrated a strong commitment towards dispose excess nuclear and other radiological materials; and The Mission found out that the nuclear and radiological EPR • Evaluation of occupational dose records of radiation the development of a regulatory infrastructure for nuclear protect nuclear and other radiological materials from theft or framework in Nigeria is being effectively built on an existing workers to be subsequently used for valuable input to United safety and it has met all the Seven (7) eligibility criteria set out sabotage. national emergency management system that is clear, well Nation Scientific Committee on the Effect of Atomic by RCF for support. defined and tested. This all-hazards approach is consistent with Radiation Global Survey. The cooperation included Physical Security upgrades of some International IAEA safety standards and is a key to the future • Strengthening of safety, security and safeguards • Nigeria participated in the 6th Review Meeting of the high risk radiological facilities. Nigeria intends to strengthen its success of the nuclear and radiological EPR programme. In regime in the industrial application of nuclear and radioactive Joint Convention on Safety of Spent Fuel Management and partnerships with relevant international organizations to addition, the EPREV identified strengths in the following areas: sources of several regulations and guides now in draft stage: Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (JC) during which promote capacity building, particularly in the development of • Specific arrangements for responding to nuclear and Nigerian Nuclear Safeguards Regulations, 2016; Regulation challenges as well as areas of good performance were identified. the Nigerian Nuclear Security Support Centre, Physical radiological emergencies are well integrated into the country’s for Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and Nuclear Nigeria is working hard to satisfy all the conditions required for Security Upgrades and Human Reliability Programme all-hazards emergency management system. Facilities, 2016; Safety of Research Reactor Regulations, 2016; spent fuel management and radioactive waste safety. Implementation. • The roles of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Nigerian Safety Regulations for Licensing of Sites for Nuclear Authority and the National Emergency Management Agency Installations and the Nigerian Uranium Exploration, Mining • NNNRA entered into a formal arrangement with the ii. Commitment to Improving safety and to protecting are recognized and appreciated by relevant response and Processing Regulations for gazetting and other subsisting United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the people and the environment through the Integrated organizations. regulation. Exchange of Technical Information and Cooperation in Regulatory Review Service of the IAEA. At the request of the Nuclear Safety Matters. Nigerian Government an international team of 13 senior iv. It is pertinent to note that several National and • Achieving threat reduction on vulnerable radioactive nuclear professional/experts conducted an Integrated international activities which includes Regulatory Authority sources, through partnership with the IAEA and the United • NNRA working in collaboration with Nigeria Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) Mission from 2nd – 12th work-processes evaluations, core regulatory functions, States Department of Energy (US-DOE) as projects in Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) produced a recently July 2017. The review compared the Nigeria’s Regulatory education & training, workshops, developments of regulations Physical Security Upgrades of high risk facilities including the signed Country Programme Framework (2018 – 2023) for implementation.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 16 17 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR President Buhari At The Women Political Aspirants Advocacy Summit In Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on political parties to ensure conducive atmosphere for women aspirants in the forthcoming 2019 General Elections.

resident Buhari has called for an enabling environment for free and fair playing grounds, Pwhere women can contest elective positions and participate in political process. He made this remark at a recently organized Women Political Aspirants Advocacy Summit in Abuja.

He said, Nigerian women are resilient and dedicated to their responsibilities. “Women constitute more than fifty per cent of voters and by experience they are more dedicated, more principled.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 18 19 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR President Buhari addressing a gathering of participants at the Women Political Aspirants Advocacy Summit in Abuja

“A few months ago, I met with female “Politicians rely on women parliamentarians and they raised issues concerning the passage of Gender and voters because their word is Equal Opportunity Bill now before the usually their bond. Women N a t i o n a l A s s e m b l y a n d t h e stand by candidates they implementation of 35 per cent believed in all the way. affirmative action, among others’’.

So, politicians do a lot to gain “I am fully in support of both positions their confidence.’’ because these measures will improve the representation of women in our politics’’ He therefore called on the women to contest for different political positions The President said that Nigeria is a to ensure their greater participation in country of opportunities and decision making. possibilities, adding that the country was L-R: Wife of Bauchi State Governor Hadiza Mohammed Abubakar; Wife of the Vice President, Dolapo blessed with productive and skilled Osinbajo; President Muhammadu Buhari; Wife of the President Aisha Buhari and Director General, National Centre for Women Development (NCWD) Mary Ekpere-Eta at the APC Women Political manpower, coupled with resources still Aspirants Advocacy Summit in Abuja. being harnessed.

Buhari said that “with the right leadership at all levels, appropriate mindset and strong institutions, Nigeria can attain greater heights”.

The Summit was organized by the N a t i o n a l C e n t r e f o r Wo m e n Wife of Bauchi State Governor, Hadiza Abubakar (L), welcoming wife of the L-R: Wife of the Vice President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo; Director General, President, Mrs Aisha Buhari (M), during the APC Women Political Aspirants National Centre for Women Development, Dr Mary Eta; Wife of Borno State Development and Women in Politics Advocacy Summit in Abuja. With them are: Wife of the Vice President, Mrs Governor, Nana Shettima and Wife of Kogi State Governor, Rashidat Bello, Forum in collaboration with the office of Dolapo Osinbajo (2nd L); Senior Special Assistant to the Wife of the during the APC Women Political Aspirants Advocacy Summit in Abuja. President on Administration, Dr Hajo Sani. the wife of the President. THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 20 21 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR A Morale Boosting Visit To Nigerian Troops In Zamfara

President Buhari with Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari and Air Vice Marshall Sampson Akpasa, Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, NAF during the President’s interactive session with troops deployed to curb the activities of bandits and President Buhari interacting with troops criminals in Zamfara and deployed to curb the activities of bandits and criminals in Zamfara and neighbouring neighbouring states under states under Operations Sharan Daji and Operations Sharan Daji and Diran Diran Mikiya, at Katsina Airport shortly before departing for Abuja. Mikiya, at Katsina Airport shortly before departing for Abuja.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 22 23 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR President Buhari interacting with It is very good for Nigeria.’’ President members of National Youth Service Buhari also welcomed the corps Corps in Daura during the Eid-El- An Assurance Of Continuous Kabir Celebration members to the ancient town of Daura and asked them to enjoy their service year. In his remarks, the Corps Liaison Support For NYSC Scheme President Muhammadu Buhari Officer, Jibrin Ishak, thanked the has spoken on the need for president for prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians to take part in the the youth to secure their future through h i s s t y l e o f l e a d e r s h i p a n d National Youth Service Corps, developmental initiatives. NYSC, an organization set up by

the Nigerian government to ‘‘The voice of the people is the voice of involve the country’s graduates in God and by the grace of God, we pray the development of the country. that in 2019 you will continue to be president of Nigeria to do more for us,’’ While reaffirming his support for the career many people did not know much Mr Ishak said. The representative of the ecently, while celebrating scheme established in 1973, President outside their immediate environment. Corps members prayed God to sustain S a l l a h i n D a u r a , h i s Buhari told the corps members that: ‘‘it ‘‘For them (NYSC members) to be the President with good health, long life hometown, President Buhari R is better to know all about the country brought to the desert or near the Sahel and prosperity. said his support for the scheme remains than for people to be state-inclined. ‘‘I region is a very difficult thing but it will unchanged. The President, after prayers, always look forward to meeting the make an impact on Nigeria. In his usual tradition, the President, in received members of the NYSC serving NYSC team because I served mostly in the spirit of the season, donated a bull, 10 in Daura community- an audience that the south when I was in the military.” ‘‘I have personally spoken to Gen. bags of rice and half-a-million Naira to has become part of his schedule during Gowon to thank him for having the the Corps Members. the Sallah celebrations in the past years. The President said during his military initiative to start the NYSC programme.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 24 25 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR President Buhari addressing a gathering of participants including former classmates, Kano Traders Association, Chairmen of ALGON Katsina State, Members of CAN Katsina Chapter, Representatives of 5 Local Governments in Daura Emirate and Chairman of Good Governance Ambassadors of Nigeria (GOGAN) Chief Felix Idiga in Daura Katsina State. the needful to create jobs, expand trade “Nigerians Appreciate Our Social Intervention and encourage greater productivity. He told members of the business community that under the Government Programmes, Projects,” - President Buhari Enterprises and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) and the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP), President Muhammadu more traders and farmers have expanded Buhari has described as their trade and increased food heart-warming that more production. While the GEEP provides free interest loans to farmers, the N40 Nigerians are appreciative of billion ABP targets rice farmers across his administration’s the country to boost their production. implementation of policies sector. Oguta in Imo State which were and projects aimed at According to the President, some of the policies and projects were misconstrued abandoned for about a decade but will improving the standard of by some critics at the beginning of this In his remarks, Sani commended the now be completed before May 2019. living in the country. administration but with steady and President for reviving the $2.8 billon rigorous implementation they have Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, “It is also another gesture of Mr. he pervasive show of realized that these interventions are very which was abandoned by previous President in fulfilling his promise to end gratitude by Nigerians beneficial for the development of the administrations due to corruption and fuel problem in Nigeria by signing the Tt o w a r d s t h e f e d e r a l to bend over double in achieving even Chairman of Kanti Kwari Traders country. He promised to look into the mismanagement. The market leader also Memorandum of Understanding for the government’s projects and policies, more than they set out to. Receiving the Association in Daura, Katsina State, concerns of the traders on the GEEP applauded the Buhari administration for establishment of a new 150,000 barrels President Muhammadu Buhari has leadership of Kano Traders Association President Buhari pledged that his programme as well as the influx and the ongoing works at river ports in Baro, per day refinery in Katsina State,” Sani noted, is the much needed fillip for them led by Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Sani, administration will not relent in doing dominance of foreigners in the retail Niger State, Lokoja, Kogi State and said.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 26 27 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR # p m b a t w o r k

Over N40bn Approved benefits. She said: “As you are aware, the ex-workers of Nigeria Airways Limited in liquidation were not paid For Universities, Retirees their retirement benefits for the past 15 years despite the liquidation. Of Nigeria Airways “As a result of the delays in settlement of these benefits, many ex-workers have been thrown out of their houses, their children have been unable to he Federal revitalise public universities in line attend school, and others have lost their businesses, fallen ill or indeed, Government Has with demands of the Academic Staff of Ahmed said that the committee is “The committee is mandated released immediately in line with the Universities (ASUU). She said the passed on. Released N22.68 headed by Mohammed Dikwa, to physically verify the established criteria used by the T money for the universities will be director of presidential initiative on National Universities Commission Billion To Settle Part Of The claims of pensioners and released through normal channels “This unfortunate situation cannot be continuous audit. (NUC). Retirement Benefits Of Former while that of the ex-airways workers allowed to continue under a Other members would be drawn from relevant next-of-kin before Workers Of Nigeria Airways - would be paid after verification. responsible administration. “It is on the office of the head of service, the release of funds to the Ahmed said that the federal this basis that Mr President has After 15-years... ministries of aviation and finance, approved beneficiaries,” she government will monitor the progress The minister, who announced the approved the immediate release of Bureau of Public Enterprises, said. of the implementation of the setting up of a nine-member N22.68 billion being 50 per cent of Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Finance, accountant-general office, Pension universities’ revitalisation with a view committee to verify the claims of the N45.3 billion total entitlements of the Transitional Arrangement Directorate, to resolving emerging issues and made the disclosure in Abuja recently. The minister also explained that the ex-workers, said the money approved ex-workers of the Nigeria Airways the ex-workers union, and the budget keeping its promises to relevant Ahmed also said the government had N20 billion for the universities will be was 50 percent of their N45 billion Limited in liquidation.” approved the release of N20 billion to office. stakeholders.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 28 29 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 11 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOWW ON WHY NIGERIA IS GIVING $322.5M ABACHA LOOT TO IT'S POOREST CITIZENS

President Buhari Salutes Honest Security Men, Commends

Their Conduct To Other Nigerians L-R: Francis Emepueaku and Achi Daniel in a joyful mood.

wo security men at the Murtala process of loading their luggage into his car, them.' But they have chosen to be examples Muhammed Airport who the handbag of the matriarch dropped, of good, honest Nigerians. I commend Treturned a bag containing unknown to anyone. A while later, their conduct to the rest of the country valuables to the owner have earned the Emepueaku and Daniel chanced upon the because such conduct reflects the new c o m m e n d a t i o n s o f P r e s i d e n t bag, searched through for contact details Nigeria that we all desire.” He further said Muhammadu Buhari while describing and called the couple to come for it. They that the honesty exhibited by the security their honest act as a representation of the were unfazed by the tempting contents. men is a pointer that, indeed, Nigeria is new face of Nigeria he preaches and resolutely on the road to a new dawn practices. On retrieval, the contents, including because, “Honesty remains the best policy. a handsome amount of American We must exhibit such behaviour in When two security men, Messrs Francis dollars, phone, wristwatch and other whatever position we find ourselves, Emepueaku and Achi Daniel, originally whether high or low.” valuables, were confirmed to be staff of Halogen Securities, but stationed at intact. The grateful couple offered a the Murtala Mohammed International The president urged Nigerians to bring out generous gift, but the security men Airport, Lagos, found a bag containing the best in them at all times, so that they can valuables on August 18th, 2018, and declined, saying they were merely never be hoodwinked again by those who returned it intact to the bewildered owner, doing their duty. seek power for selfish and dubious reasons, they never knew or imagined that their and, effectively, return the country to an singular act of honesty would reach the ears When informed, President Buhari, inglorious past. “Nigeria will no longer be a of President Muhammadu Buhari. globally renowned for his incorruptibility, byword for corruption and plundering of was beside himself with joy, saying, “The public resources. That is the path we have As the story goes, a Lagos-based medical security men could have chosen to behave chosen to take, and our country will doctor, Banji Oyegbami, had gone to pick a differently, following the self-serving eventually get to a new shore,” President family returning from America and, in the principle of 'if you can't beat them, join Buhari affirmed.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 30 31 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR FG's Intervention In The Economy Through Micro Economic Schemes

country, especially in the pilot states, there were already about 500,000 potential beneficiaries by the end of the first month. The target is to reach two million traders before or by the end of this year, with petty traders in Lagos, Kano and Abia States being the first round of beneficiaries.

A trader in one of the Lagos markets, Anna Enwerem thanked President Buhari for the initiative, saying, “I sell clothes. This N10,000 would do a lot 30,000 traders have so far for me and my children. I like this especially the traders. We thank the accessed Federal programme so much. I will pay the federal government so much.” The loan before six months. Before now, I Government's 'Trader Moni' excitement was no less in other states didn’t believe it, but now that I have programme for petty traders where the scheme has launched. received my money, I believe.” across the federation... TRADER MONI: Stamping Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, At the launch in Owerri, Imo State, at Utako Ultra Modern Market Similarly, Chief Mrs Rufiat Adewumi, Vice President Yemi Osibajo, said that during the official Launch of the Trader Moni is the micro Trader Moni Program in Abuja a market women leader in Lagos said it Trader Moni aims to get resources in credit programme being Out Poverty From The will help ordinary Nigerians who the hands of Nigerians while assuring banks require in granting loans, Trader cannot access credit facilities from promoted by President them that the scheme is free for all and devoid of political or ethnic affiliations. rom Oshogbo to Owerri, Moni is positioned to take financial commercial banks because of Muhammadu Buhari’s In order to identify the beneficiaries, Grassroots Kogi to Katsina, Abia to Akwa inclusion down to the grassroots in collateral; “We are happy about the administration, which gives the Bank of Industry, charged with Ibom and many cities and order to eradicate poverty. Trader Moni because this is what we petty traders access to F deployment, has engaged no less than suburbia in between, the lot of market have been expecting for long, that the capital for their businesses. In a determined and significant 4000 enumeration agents. women is changing rapidly, thanks to Launched in Mushin, Ikotun, Agege, government should assist the masses, bid to further enlarge its the ingenious Government Enterprise Ketu, and Abule Egba markets, all in financial inclusion agenda for and Empowerment Programme Lagos, in August, the scheme also aims all Nigerians regardless of (GEEP), otherwise known as the to grant a minimum of 30,000 loans in each state of the federation and the social class and economic Trader Moni, introduced by the Muhammadu Buhari administration. Federal Capital Territory while states status, the Muhammadu with larger populations like Lagos and Buhari administration has Designed to help petty traders expand Kano are expected to get more than the launched a new initiative under their trade by providing collateral-free estimated 30,000 loans. Across the the Government Enterprise loans of N10,000 repayable within a and Empowerment period of six months, Trader Moni beneficiaries would access a higher Programme (GEEP), called the facility ranging from N15,000 to Trader Moni, which would N50,000 if they repaid the initial empower two million petty N10,000 within the stipulated period. traders by the end of the year. Aware of the fact that many of the petty traders don’t have what commercial Some of the beneficiaries of TraderMoni Celebrating After Receiving Trader Moni In Ibadan

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 32 33 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR TRADER MONI Speaking at the launch of the initiative at the Sango Ota market, Ogun State, where no fewer than 10,000 petty traders accessed the loan, Toyin Adeniji, Executive Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), said the goal is to take financial inclusion down to the grassroots whereby water sellers, bread sellers, food vendors and commercial motorcyclists among others can expand their business. FG's Intervention In The Economy Through Micro Economic Schemes

According to her, the programme would be What You Should Know activated in various markets nationwide and  Must have a valid SIM/Phone number properly  TraderMoni is a collateral-free loan that ranges from would support two million Nigerians registered under your name with any of the service N10,000 to N50,000 depending on your repayment. providers (MTN, 9moblie, Airtel, Glo, etc.) irrespective of their status or level of  All petty traders and artisans in Nigeria are eligible to education. According to her, “Trader Moni access the loan. How To Apply For Loan: initiative is a mobile phone-driven.  Traders do not need Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to access the loan but must have a means of identification  Trader Moni registration is in two forms, namely; After your details have been captured by an like the National Identity card or drivers licence. physical and online registration. Physical registration  The first loan of N10,000 can be accessed without agent and sent to BoI system for validation, can only be done at the Bank of Industry (BOI) centres. Bank Verification Number (BVN), but will within 48 hours, you will get cash subsequently require a BVN and a bank account for  However, checking out the online can application will notification in your mobile wallet account. higher loans up till N 50,000 hasten the process before going to the Bank of Industry You can either transfer the cash to your bank  Forms to access the social intervention programme is to complete the procedure. account or cash it out with any mobile free as a trader only requires a valid phone number. money agent around.”  Strategic banks have been designated to repay the loans  The portal gives applicants access to upload their which are GTB, UBA, Ecobank, Union Bank, Union documents and find access to the preferred BOI State bank, Stanbic, Sterling, Wema, Fidelity, Heritage and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at Utako Ultra Modern Market during the official Launch of the Trader Moni Program in Abuja. office where they can finish the processing. Jaiz Bank.  Trader moni loan can be registered through a Trader Moni enumerator (also called “agent” in your area Steps To Begin Online Application: where they are strategically located to identify and - Visit the website, www.boi.ng register traders.  The Trader Moni will cover all the 36 states and the - Navigate the page and click the “Apply for loan now” FCT. button Next, select “Register here”  Trader Moni has so far been launched in the states of - Provide the correct information about yourself. Lagos, Kano, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Katsina, Osun, FCT, Cross River and Oyo (Name, phone number, email etc.)  Over N20million worth of loans will be disbursed in - A verification link and tracking code will then be sent the first phase of the programme. to the email you provided  If you fail to repay the loan, your beneficiary's Bank Verification Number (BVN) might be blocked. - Now click on the verification link to log in. Requirements For Loan: - Once logged in, complete the application form, save  You must be a Nigerian citizen and aged 18 or older and click on “continue”  A business owner or trader - You will be sent an email confirming that the  Be an active member within any market cooperation application has been received union within your location  Have a valid means of identification - Subsequently, you will be informed of the next step,  Must possess a valid BVN you should take.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 34 35 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR CONDITIONAL CASH TRANSFER

What Is The Conditional Cash Transfer Program About?

meet certain criteria. These criteria The conditional cash transfer program is also known as may include enrolling children into household uplifting program. It is known as a household- uplifting program because it is targeted at the poorest homes, it Conditional Cash Transfer: public schools, getting regular check- is actually targeted at the bottom of the poor. When we talk of ups at the doctor's office, receiving poverty, we have different categories, referring to those that vaccinations, or the like. cannot tackle malnutrition in their homes. Government looked at this and decided to come with a program that would help this FG Disburses N10bn CCTs seek to help the current set of people to start doing things for themselves. The Beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer in Oyo State receiving their #BuhariCashTransfers generation in poverty, as well community identifies the poorest of the poor and they are being as breaking the cycle of supported with N5,000.00 monthly to enhance their living dependent on people as a means of survival. The national cash standards. transfer is different from the other programs like N-power in To Poor Nigerians poverty for the next through which you have to apply for it but the national cash transfer the development of human So, these are the issues that have to be addressed and the program, is strictly on community approval. If the community capital. Conditional cash government is not stopping at the N5,000, rather, the approves that you are one of the poor persons who need he Federal Government The Federal Government established government has gone ahead to build their capacity so that after assistance, then you will be engaged. has since 2016 the National Social Investment transfers could help reduce meeting their daily feeding requirements, they will be able to do disbursed N10 billion Programme (NSIP) in 2016 to tackle feminization of poverty. something valuable for themselves and even contributing to Another agency, which is known as the National Safety Net, T unemployment, poverty and hunger national development. These are the key components of the to no fewer than 300,000 collects the social characteristics of the particular household across the country. NSIP focuses on social investment program of the present administration. beneficiaries through its The programme started in 2016 with approved, referring to the type of assets and when we talk of ensuring a more equitable distribution eight pilot states that met the condition assets, we are looking at issues like torch light, radio, bed, what Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) What Are The Criteria For Choosing The Poor People of resources to vulnerable populations, set by the Federal Government, which kind of farm size, farmland, as well as crops, whether they go to programme. These figures were To Attend To? including children, youth and women. is for states to provide offices, school, etc. These are the kinds of things considered. We collect provided by Dr Temitope Sinkaye, personnel and equipment for the take- The National Cash Transfer Program (NCTP) is the only one these characteristics and do what we call proxy testing. From National Programme Coordinator Conditional cash transfer (CCT) off of the programme. that has targeted the poorest of the poor and the criteria for there, we look at the number of houses the communities have at the National Cash Transfer programs aim to reduce poverty by selecting the poorest of the poor is dependent on the identified, determine their level of poverty and those who fall community because each community has decided to select its below the poverty line are the ones the national cash transfer Office (NCTO), on the sidelines making welfare programs conditional In this interview with LEADERSHIP people because they know those who are not able to meet their program will enroll into the program. of the National Cash Transfer upon the receivers' actions. The NEWSPAPER, Dr Temitope Sinkaiye needs, they know those who are destitute, they know those who Programme Mid-year Review in government (or a charity) only speaks on the purpose of the NCTO, can go from house to house to borrow and beg for food and in Sometimes, there are some people that impose themselves on transfers the money to persons who how it works among other things. Ilorin. the poorest communities, these sets of people are usually the community and the community forwards their names but

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 36 37 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR CONDITIONAL CASH TRANSFER

The CCT is one of the social investment programmes of the Federal Government targeted at lifting poor and vulnerable Nigerians from poverty. Beneficiaries receive N5,000 monthly to be productive and engage in economic activities, form cooperative groups and manage their lives.

poverty level, they must be able to accumulate capital to How Many States Are Involved In This Cash Transfer continue their businesses and also access other sources of credit, Program? either from government or some commercial banks in order to Yes, I have to refresh your memory by letting you know that the boost their businesses. program started 2015 and then, we started 14 states, but as we are talking today, six states have just joined making 20. I am sure when it gets to proxy testing, we knock them out of it because we 2016 to 2022 and Abacha’s loot, as we all know, is $321 million I can say that the program is ongoing, meaning that the before the year runs out, we may involve the 36 states of the know that we have so many people in Nigeria and therefore, we and that one has no duration attach to it. What I mean is the enrolment is continuous, as people are entering and leaving at federation. And the question is, why are we not in all the states? cannot afford leakages and leakages will happen when you are money can be spent immediately or it can be spent in seven years the end of three years, other sets also continue. But the only set The reason is that there are conditions for state participation and not targeting the poor. Some people are saying that the N5,000 is after the time given for the World Bank loan has elapsed since it of people that will not be graduated are the aged people who do you know this program is unlike N-Power and GEEP where too small and wondering what one can do with it etc. I want to has no specific time attached to it. The World Bank will facilitate not have anybody to take care of them. For this set of people, we people apply online on their own and the lucky ones get encourage Nigerians to visit our office or our Twitter handle, how it is being used. Both the money borrowed from the World are not building their capacity to do anything because they are selected. our Facebook page, WhatsApp page and see what N5,000 has Bank and the Abacha loot are managed by the federal already weak. If you go to our Facebook page, you will see this done and we are also here, willing to take people to these villages government but the money coming from the federal kind people I’m talking about. But for cash transfer program, the state governments have to see what the N5,000 has done or we can even give them their government is being managed by the ministry of budget and conditions to meet before getting engaged. The state contacts. national planning. The office of the National Cash Transfer Why Not Invest In Capital Projects Instead Of Giving government has to provide memorandum of understanding Program, here is managing none of the money. It To People? Who Funds The National Cash Transfer Program? (MoU) to provide offices and staff who are state staff and Anytime I hear such argument, I laugh because if you build a logistics support. Once they meet this condition, then we National cash transfer program, like I said before is under the What we have done so far is to open a naira house without a proper foundation, it would definitely collapse. engage that state and we train the staff so that they will be able to office of the Vice President and you report to the office of an account with the CBN, which we have not So, if you do not build people’s capacity to be able to stand on deliver their services, and all our payments are done at local level adviser who oversees the position of the social programs even completed the process, talk more of their own, how will they stand? Remember, we talked about the knowing that banks are not common in those areas and most of including the cash transfer. The funding for the cash transfer putting the money there, or even spending capacity for households, future generations, which includes the the poor people are from the remote areas where there are no program can come from three sources, from government’s children; it means that the structures you are going to build will banking infrastructures or even network coverage. budget provision that is social investment budget, from the the money. Not a dime has been spent from one day collapse. So, it is important to build people’s capacities World Bank, the federal government got credit facilities to run Abacha’s looted funds. by empowering them for the future generation so the The state staff we train deliver the services at local areas. The the program and the credit facilities are to run for six years, infrastructures that are being built by the government would be states governments have not even provided them with the which will be rounding off in 2022. What Is The Duration Of The Programme? sustainable. mobility and we are appealing to them to please do something. If For each group the community has identified, they will stay on states are able to address these issues, then the future will be The third and last means of funding is the Abacha loot funds, the program for three years and the reason for staying on the Building infrastructure without building the people’s capacity is good for the nation. We are also appealing to states who have not which by the international court judgment, is to be put into a program for that long is to graduate them from poverty. We are not wise. When you are talking about infrastructure, you are joined to please join and for them to join, they need to provide program for the masses and accountability made to the World not just giving them N5, 000, we are also training them on what talking about roads, hospital, electricity, boreholes and schools the three requirements that I mentioned earlier: office Bank. So, national cash transfer is one of the programs being their livelihood means and we believe that after three years of but in this context, do poor people have access to all these accommodation, mobility and number of staffs that we need so introduced using the Abacha looted funds. training them, they will be able to know what livelihood means. things? I believe that we are all Nigerians and everybody should that the job would be easier. The money from the World Bank is $500 million starting from In essence, what I mean is if they are ready to graduate from experience the dividends of democracy.

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 38 39 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR FUTURE ASSURED Wife of the president, Mrs. Aisha Buhari cutting the tape to inaugurate the Grassroots Women Initiative ife of the President, Mrs. supported by wife of the Governor of Katsina. A i s h a M u h a m m a d u WBuhari has commissioned the new office building of Daura Grassroots Women Initiative, a women’s association aimed at empowering women towards self-reliance. She used the event to donate a groundnut extruder machine for the use of women.

In her remarks at the event, which held recently, in Daura, Katsina State, Mrs. Buhari said the machine was her own contribution to the success of the center to enable the women process groundnut related products, promising to also assist in marketing of the end-products t h r o u g h t h e Fu t u r e A s s u r e d Programme.

Aisha Buhari She also presented 200 members of the Association with funds to start-up and Commissions Women grow their petty businesses, so that, as she said “they can learn the rigors of business and Center, Visits Patients prepare to apply for facilities from national and other lending institutions.”

Chairperson of the Initiative, Hajiya Ambaru Sani Wali in her address said the office complex was secured in order to provide a rallying point for women. She cited the need for women to receive Goodwill messages were delivered by emulate her efforts in order to improve empowerment and said the association elder statesmen Alhaji Abba Ali and Sani the situation of the poor among them. will come up with many initiatives to Ahmed Daura, both of whom change the economic status of women. c o m m e n d e d M r s . B u h a r i ’ s Earlier, Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari humanitarian efforts through the Future had paid a visit to the Aisha Buhari “More women need to be empowered so Assured Programme, which, as they said, Foundation Maternity Complex in that the condition of their families, were noticed world-wide and have Daura to celebrate Eid el Adha with especially their children will improve”. resulted in a Doctorate Degree from as patients. She interacted with them and She held. She thanked the wife of the far away as South Korea. presented them with gifts, expressing President for making notable happiness that the complex is being put contributions to the cause of women. A beneficiary receiving cash support Wife of the president, Mrs. Aisha Buhari delivering her goodwill message They called on privileged Nigerians to to good use. from Mrs. Buhari

THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 40 41 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR FUTURE ASSURED nother 200 women benefitted beading. health status of the family, among other from the Aisha Buhari benefits. These benefits, he said will AFoundation’s Community- C o o r d i n a t o r o f A i s h a B u h a r i contribute to the attainment of related Based Cash Transfer Intervention in Foundation, Dr. Kamal Muhammad Sustainable Development Goals. He Katsina. This was a continuation to a who represented Wife of the President at charged the beneficiaries to expand their similar event in Daura in which 200 the event said the cash transfer initiative businesses with this cash support. women were assisted with cash to grow is in line with the vision of Future Commissioner for Women Affairs in the their business last Tuesday. Assured Programme on improving the State, Mrs. Badiyya Hassan Mashi health and wellbeing of women and thanked the wife of the President for The event held at the Katsina children. constantly supporting women, saying Multipurpose Hal. The Katsina event t h a t t h e s u p p o r t w i l l a s s i s t witnessed a large turnout of women who The transfer, he said, will lead to an entrepreneurial women to expand the are into various small businesses like improvement in household income, capital base of their micro businesses and agricultural products processing and which will in-turn improve feeding and become more self-sustaining. She urged marketing, catering (including akara and nutritional status, school attendance and beneficiaries to utilize the funds masa sellers), cosmetics, tailoring and quality of education as well as improved judiciously.

400 Women Benefit From Aisha Buhari’s Cash Transfer Initiative

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Professor Toyin Falola (University Twenty-one years after his death, and seeing that the Afrobeat - By Pelu Awofeso of Texas), who gave the keynote, described the musician as no movement has become a global different than what Jesus phenomenon, Dasylva adds: “I want In October, Afrobeat fans from represented: “When you look at to see Felasophy as both an offshoot across the world poured into Jesus Christ, the most prominent of cultural renaissance and as well Nigeria to mark the figure in his century, you are to see as a culture of resistance... For him as a rebel, just as we see Fela as [Fela], the Afrobeat music can be posthumous 80th birthday of a rebel, a non-conformist, a political appropriately deployed as a veritable Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, one of figure that shifted the paradigm of weapon capable of bringing about Nigeria’s most renowned power; in the context of which he the much-needed change.” was born, Jesus Christ was a cultural export. political icon.” Part of the activities hosted in Lagos to celebrate the life uring the Fela Kuti Other speakers, however, fault and times of “Abami Eda” International Fela’s approach to Colonialism and (as Fela was fondly called) is Conference at the Christianity, arguing that Africans D Felabration, a weeklong University of Ibadan, scholars had been exposed to the religion dissected the late artiste’s persona, long before the British came to series of concerts where his music and the message he laced administer Nigeria. “It must be hundreds of musicians and every song with. pointed out that Christianity was bands perform to the already in Africa before Africa’s delight of fans. “If you want to know what Nigeria contact with the colonialists,” says was like at a particular point since Professor Anthony Akinwale of the In recent years, the celebrations 1968, listen to a Fela song and you Dominican University. “History have been replicated in other parts would get the authentic version of testifies that there were Christian of the world. “This is the about the Fela’s Music what it took to think, haggle or communities in Africa right from only festival in the world that is agonise about your country - and the beginning of Christianity. celebrated in multiple locations Fela did a lot of that,” says award- Among the first disciples of Christ, simultaneously,” says Femi winning poet, Odia Ofeimun, who there were Africans.” Odebunmi, a member of the as a young adult watched Fela Felabration Organising Committee, A Doorway perform at his first club in Lagos, On the other side of the argument, during this year’s annual Kakadu. Fela is presented as a proud African symposium, tagged Fela Debates. who was also unsparing of certain “Felabration is now celebrated in 16 “He understood Nigeria better than Into Nigeria Of beliefs on the continent. “His countries and counting.” any other performance in symbols acceptance of African traditions was that we saw around us, whether in not uncritical: his beliefs and literature, music or politics - he had lifestyle were suggestive of the need Yesteryears an insight into the way Nigeria was to update African traditions for going, which was unusual and relevance to face today’s reality,” which had - and has - no parallel Professor Ademola Dasylva anywhere else. (University of Ibadan). Prof. Toyin Falola with other notable speakers at the Fela Kuti International Conference THE NIGERIA INDICATOR 44 45 THE NIGERIA INDICATOR TOURISM

The Container New Afrika Shrine

The next natural stop after the museum is the New Afrika Shrine, a 15-minute drive away in Agidingbi. Open to the public all-day and all-week, the best

times to visit are Thursday evenings ‘Liberation’ Statue Kalakuta Museum (when Femi Kuti rehearses with his band) and Sunday nights (when he has the ‘Sunday Jump’ performances). Both shows are crowd-pulling. On other days, you could chill inside the place, buy a drink, play snooker, watch a football match or revel in some Fela songs. The bar and one or two shops Ojuelegba Under-Bridge St John’s Anglican Church stock Fela memorabilia (T-shirts, CDs and caps, among others items). of Lagos (Surulere LGA). As part of its where the first-ever Kalakuta Republic, beautification projects, the state Fela’s famed commune, used to be. It is ‘Liberation’ Statue government has approved the painting worth strolling into the compound to of a Fela mural under one of the see where Fela ‘yabbed’ the soldiers that The ‘Liberation’ public art was installed bridges. For all it is worth, take a walk would later storm his house and raze it. and commissioned in October 2017 to The Tomb covers of Fela’s turbulent encounters around the vicinity, soak in the air, feel commemorate the 20th anniversary of Most people don’t know where Fela is with the authorities in the 1970s. the buzz, chaos and “go-slow” and try Kuti Family House Fela’s death and his 79th posthumous buried. Tourists who stream into the to imagine what the scene must have 9 birthday. It shows a figure draped in The Kuti Family House and St Fela Kalakuta Museum (Fela’s former In the same room, one of the walls been like in the 1970s when Fela Fela’s trademark shirt and trousers John’s Anglican Church are in home) on Gbemisola Street in Ikeja, are displays the constitution of Fela’s released that song. striking the equally familiar Fela salute. Abeokuta (Ogun State), so you’ll need shocked when they step into the Movement of the People's (MoP) party to cross inter-state boundaries to get to Landmarks and the typewriter it was typed on. Never mind that it has no head or compound and see the brown-and- Empire Hotel Building hands; the artist has said his intention these ones. The family house has been black marble tomb in the front yard. It From the ground floor up, you’re was not to create a statue of Fela but a Kakadu, the first club where Fela used redeveloped into a museum with its is not yet a shrine. treated to dozens of family You Should Visit symbolic representation of the values to perform, has long folded - same for a adjoining building serving as a resource photographs. If you feel like spending couple of other joints where he centre. Built in the 1950s, Fela returned the night, there’s a five-room boutique he stood for. Kalakuta Museum performed, years laters. The one every now and again to the house and when in Nigeria hotel on on the second floor. The tour building that still stands and serves as practised his saxophone in a cellar that Elsewhere in the world, a museum ends on the terrace bar, fantastic Ojuelegba Under- an architectural link to the long-gone is now no longer there. dedicated to an entertainer of global ambience for a hangout. A huge portrait or all fans of Fela and his Bridge era of 1960s Lagos, when highlife repute such as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti painting of Fela smiles at you. music, October - the would year-round draw hundreds of One of Fela’s most popular songs was reigned supreme is the Empire Hotel St John’s Anglican artiste’s birth month - is a ‘Confusion’, which includes a reference building, right across the road from F thousands of visitor. The Kalakuta The Container Church great time to perform a ritual in his Museum, opened to the public during to Ojuelegba, a densely populated part where the first-ever Kalakuta Republic, memory: take a tour to the places Felabration 2012, is far from reaching This is new. Right next to the museum, Up the road is the Anglican Church a new structure has sprung up: built that carry a whiff of the man who that threshold. Inside the two-storey where Fela’s father, an educationist and entirely of containers, it is planned to clergyman, presided and where Fela founded Afrobeat and, in the white building, you’ll see Fela’s room as serve multiple purposes, one of which learned to play some instruments as a process, founded a global he left it at his death in August 1997 -- shirts, mattress, freezer and all. An is a rehearsal space for Seun Kuti. A member of the church choir. If you are movement. But if you can’t make it entire room on the first floor is section of it will serve as lodging for keen to go the extra couple of steps, in October, any time of the year is dedicated to 30-plus pairs of his some of the hotel staff. The catch here and you should, the graves of Fela’s as good. Here’s a short list to guide is the mural on the front ‘wall’. It is parents are right in the churchyard. colourful shoes; another room holds Prof. Femi Osofisan addresing participants Tunde Kelani addressing participants at the your itinerary. photocopies of newspaper cuttings and highly instagram-able. at the Fela Kuti International Conference Fela Kuti International Conference They were legends in their own rights.

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