Yesterday evening, I listened attentively to a panel of experts and stakeholders on the BBC program Ra’ayi Riga, anchored by Umaima Sani Abdulmumin. The program ended with a big doubt in my mind regarding a matter purported to be a provision of OPEC and crucial to the price of petrol in Nigeria. I could not fathom how particularly the representatives of NNPC and IPMAN stressed that Nigerians will be at the mercy of two variables: the international market and the price of the US Dollar in Nigeria. They said OPEC agreement compels member countries to sell allocated domestic crude at international rate even if refined locally. One of them even said the Iran-Israel conflict can cause domestic price of petrol in Nigeria to rise. So we should expect higher fuel prices anytime the rate of the dollar appreciates in Nigeria and also when, for any reason, there is a rise in the cost of crude in the international market. It is the rule, according to them. Our fate, they claim, is sealed, regardless of our OPEC membership and Dangote refinery. Nigerians will no longer have a stable fuel price. Trust me, in Nigeria, the equation will be simultaneous. At any given moment, a reason will be found to use either or both parameters to increase pump price. The target of government is to extract more revenue from citizens while the businessmen in Dangote, Major Marketers, NNPCL and IPMAN continue to feed their greed for endless profit with our blood. One would wonder why OPEC would be so oppressive in inflicting such tyranny on the citizens of its members. Senator Ndume, who was in the panel, said if he cannot understand why, how would they expect a commoner sitting under the tree to do so? The truth is that there is no provision like that in OPEC agreements. In fact, the very idea of domestic crude quota arose in realization that citizens of member countries may need to enjoy cheaper oil than the international market price. That is why those citizens have been enjoying cheaper fuel for the past five decades in different countries. Many still do. Why not Nigerians? If you ask ChatGPT whether OPEC agreement compels member countries to sell crude for domestic consumption at international market price only, this is the answer you get: “OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) does not directly compel member countries to sell crude oil for domestic consumption at international market prices. OPEC’s primary role is to coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries to stabilize oil markets and secure a steady supply of oil. “However, OPEC’s production quotas, agreements on output levels, and policies can indirectly influence domestic oil pricing. In practice, many OPEC members choose to sell crude oil domestically at subsidized rates or prices lower than the international market. This decision is made at the discretion of individual member countries, often as part of national energy policies aimed at supporting domestic economies and industries. Nonetheless, these policies may vary from one member country to another depending on domestic priorities and economic strategies. “There is no formal OPEC rule that requires domestic sales to match international prices, though it can be influenced by international agreements and market pressures.” The truth is that the President and Minister of Petroleum can sell our 445,000 barrels a day to Dangote at even N50,000/barrel after taking into consideration the cost of extraction and OPEC will not raise any eyebrow. Dangote can charge the cost of refining, add his profit and sell to NNPCL and IPMAN at, say, N300/litre. On their part the marketers will add their cost of transportation, storage, profit, etc., and sell it to Nigerians at N400/litre. And—boom—we all will be happy. It is entirely the discretion of the President and his government. So whoever wants to sell our locally produced fuel by that simultaneous equation is on his own. There is no OPEC in the equation. Also, among those who would fight against Nigerians enjoying affordable fuel rates are the IMF, World Bank and the West generally. They want the government to squeeze us the more such that we can service our debts and collect more loans from the Shylock. The age long philosophy is: our poverty, their wealth; our pain, their joy. Added to these are local liberal economists who believe in high taxation, claiming that the blood money will be used to develop our infrastructure, health, education, etc. It is just the same old bunkum selling since 1986 at the debut of Naira devaluation while our infrastructure, hospitals and schools continue to deteriorate in rebuttal of that thesis. I call on the President to consider the low income status of our citizen. Only affordable fuel price will hold together our social fabric, ensure our prosperity and guarantee our security. It is zero subsidy because we are not buying it from anyone. It is our oil. The President must keep in mind that the IMF and oil magnates are not his partners in 2027. He is on his own. They will be there to outlive him and work with the next President. Let this sink into his psyche. Tam! Dr. Aliyu U. Tilde wrote in from Abuja
Former Chief of Army Staff, retired General Theophilus Danjuma has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking damages of ₦1 billion against a senior pastor of the Holiness Revival Ministry Worldwide, Pastor Paul Rika. Information had it that the legal action stems from allegations made by the pastor in his book, titled: “God’s Message To Kuteb Tribe And Indigenes Of Taraba State.” The legal representative of Danjuma, Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), demanded that Pastor Rika retracts the defamatory statements within seven days. According to the memorandum, Danjuma complained that he became aware of the book through several mentees who purchased and read it. The retired general said that contents in the various pages of the book tarnished his reputation and caused him ridicule among his peers, jeopardizing both his national and international business dealings. The letter read: “Our client’s attention was drawn to a Book titled: “God’s Message to Kuteb Tribe and Indigenes of Taraba State” (the Book), written by Pastor Paul Rika and published by HOREMOW Printing Press, which was availed to him through some of his mentees who had purchased the book and read it. “Upon receiving a copy of the book, to his utter dismay, he discovered several heinous allegations made against him. The contents of the book particularly at pages: 9, 13, 14, I5, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40, 4 I, 42, 56, 58, 59, 6I, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 76, 83, 84, 85, 86, 90, 9I and 94, impugn our client’s good reputation, demonize him, and portray him as a wicked, mischievous, evil, and anti-democratic person. “The defamatory statements which you published of, and concerning our client have caused him great discomfort, embarrassment, and annoyance, and lowered him in the estimation of right-thinking members of the public who have read the book. Since the publication, he has been inundated with calls and other contacts from several people and leaders within and outside Nigeria, who read the book and are disturbed and disappointed. “Our client, being a revered octogenarian who has dedicated his life to the service of humanity is greatly distressed by your defamatory publication because of his reputation built by a labour of many decades has been assaulted and jolted by your insensitive, malicious, and contemptuous false publication. “Accordingly, our client has instructed us to commence legal proceedings against you and the Holiness Revival Ministry Worldwide [as defendants]to seek appropriate judicial remedies.” Danjuma highlighted the emotional toll the publication has taken on him, causing significant discomfort and distress, and leading to numerous calls from individuals concerned about the allegations. Danjuma’s lawyers, as part of the legal action, are seeking several remedies, including a requirement for Pastor Rika to print, publish, and distribute a second edition of the book within 90 days that retracts all defamatory statements, along with an apology. They are also pursuing general damages amounting to ₦1,000,000,000.00 for the harm caused by the published statements, with a settlement option requested within seven days. Source: TheNewsGuru.com
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike has lamented the high level of corruption in the land administration of the capital city. The minister, who received in audience, a delegation from Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), led by its Managing Director, Gbenga Alade, recounted the challenges he faced in land administration, which he emphasized, is neck deep in corruption. “We have a problem in land administration. That is the place where we see corruption. People think that you are coming to share land when they appoint you as FCT Minister. “That is the only thing you see here that as the Minister of the FCT, your business is to preside over land allocation—no other job; no infrastructure, no education, no health. You come to the office; everybody is land, land, land. Nothing more. “So, when you have come to make changes, it becomes a problem; they will call you all sorts of names….We can’t continue in that way. Somebody must have to take the bull by the horns. That’s all about leadership. “You may not be right all the time, but you must take a decision and be firm, and that’s the only way this country can survive.” Nyeso Wike complained that because of his decision to change the negative narratives, he had made a lot of enemies both within and outside the government. He said that the journey as minister has not been easy but that he is determined to also succeed. The Minister regretted that many people view government decisions and actions through ethnic and religious prisms but that a leader must step on toes in order to succeed. Wike congratulated the MD and his team on their appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to manage AMCON and advised them to remain focused in the discharge of their duties. He said said that President Tinubu has identified competent individuals to change the country’s narratives and expressed confidence that the MD and his team had what it takes to bring about positive changes. The FCT Minister, stressed that tough decisions are required to address the challenges in any organization. “Mr. President believes in you. He thinks you can make a difference. “For every opportunity you have, say that this was my contribution while I was there. It’s very key. This country must succeed. “You were brought there because there are challenges. If there are no challenges, nobody will appoint you. There are challenges for you to solve.” Earlier, the MD AMCON told the Minister that AMCO was created by the Federal Government in 2010 to stabilize the banking industry, which was shaky and struggling with a large stock of bad loans. He said that the Federal Government founded AMCON to take over the bad loans from the banks, administer the loans and all the assets underlining them, and manage them on its behalf. He acknowledged the giant strides recorded by the Minister in infrastructure development.
It was James Joyce who once said, ‘History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awaken.” Today, I woke up to listen to a BBC and DCL Hausa interview granted by the Acting Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh.
The Ag. Chairman, who was screened yesterday and currently awaiting Senate confirmation, impressively spoke on various issues and his intention to address some wide-ranging operational matters as soon as he settles down in office. However, one administratively sensitive issue I didn’t expect the Chairman to delve into at this time is the issue of hajj fare – a promise to reduce hajj fare. He told the BBC Hausa service which was aired earlier today that “the commission is working round the clock to ensure there is a reduction in the amount intending pilgrims would pay for the 2025 hajj operations”. He said: “Firstly, this is not our hope, and this is not what we want to happen. There has not been any announcement that it will happen. What we are doing, and based on the advice we are given and getting, we are working to ensure that it (the fare) did not get there, and we are optimistic and hopeful it will not get there, God willing. “Our hope is to even have a reduction from what was paid last year, and this is what we are working round the clock to achieve. And we are optimistic that we will achieve this with Allah’s help.” This is the same promise made by your immediate predecessors that eventually put their administration under media pressure because they hurriedly made an unrealistic promise even when they were yet to know the intricate details involved in hajj fare computation. Sir, you have to be wary of the booby trap and ensure that you made adequate consultations before making pronouncements. When the former Chairman of NAHCON, Barr Kunle Hassan’s administration resumed in February 2020, hajj fare was within N1.5 million naira. Hajj fare rose to within N2.5 to 2.9 million under his watch. Jalal Arabi assumed office; he met hajj fare at N3 million but he presided over hajj where pilgrims paid a minimum of N6.5 Million. Sir, the circumstances and factors that shut up hajj fare under their watch can repeat itself and that is why you need to be more cautious when making public statements. Mistakes especially the ones in the public domain are costly and sometimes, somebody must pay either way. Sir, the single determinant factor of hajj fare in Nigeria is the exchange rate and NAHCON has no authority to influence the price of naira to a dollar at any point in time. There are times when the price of hajj service reduces and yet the cost of hajj fare rises beyond the previous year because the exchange rates consumed the reduction in hajj services. Another factor that can reduce Hajj fares is the significant reduction in the cost of airfare or accommodation in Makkah and Madina because the three components take the larger percentage of Hajj costs. Has the Chairman secured an assurance from Saudi-based service providers or the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that there will be a reduction in the cost of accommodation or feeding in Saudi Arabia? Has the Ag Chairman liaised with airliners about the possibility of reducing the airfare? More disturbing is that the promise to reduce hajj fare comes less than 24 hours after the NAHCON Spokesperson released a statement clarifying the position of the government on the exchange rate. The statement categorically stated that the government will not subsidize or grant concessionary exchange rates on hajj fare. “The sixth paragraph of the statement reads “It was confirmed that for the 2025 Hajj, there will be no concessionary exchange rate from the government for Hajj fare payment for pilgrims whether under state or private Hajj operators”. While I do not doubt the capacity and administrative profundity of the Ag Chairman to significantly reduce the cost of 2025 hajj fare for our dear pilgrims, I advise him to learn from past experiences and allow the result of his actions to speak on behalf of NAHCON.
Ibrahim is the National Coordinator of the Independent Hajj Reporters 08037024356.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has increased the price of petrol to N1,030 per litre at its outlets in Abuja. This price hike, which took effect today, October 9, follows the company’s decision to terminate its exclusive purchase agreement with Dangote Refinery, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s fuel market. It was reported earlier that NNPC would no longer serve as the sole buyer of petrol from Dangote Refinery. Instead, the refinery is now open to other marketers who can purchase fuel directly, creating a competitive, deregulated market where prices will be negotiated on a “willing buyer, willing seller” basis. At NNPC outlets in the Central Area of Abuja, the petrol price adjustment to N1,030 per litre sparked reactions among consumers, as this marks one of the highest fuel prices recorded in the country. In September, NNPC said that it had been purchasing petrol from Dangote Refinery at N898.78 per litre but was selling it to marketers at N765.99 per litre, effectively subsidizing the product by N133 per litre. However, the company has since declared that continuing the subsidy was unsustainable, leading to the current market adjustment. Between September 15 and 30, NNPC lifted approximately 103 million litres of petrol from Dangote Refinery, a small fraction of the 400 million litres originally planned for that period. Only 2,207 out of the 3,621 trucks sent to the refinery were loaded, resulting in a 26% delivery performance, as revealed by records seen. This latest development signals a new chapter for Nigeria’s downstream oil sector as marketers gain direct access to the Dangote Refinery, but it also raises concerns over how consumers will cope with the surging fuel prices in an already challenging economic environment. Source: QED.NG
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has protested over a statement ascribed to him by Engr. Kamoru Busari, Director of Upstream in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, who represented him at a recent conference in Lagos. In a statement today, October 8, the Minister said that the claim by his representative at the occasion that he directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to stop running its own refineries and focus solely on equity participation in other refineries is false. “This does not represent my position as Minister overseeing the oil sector, nor does it reflect the stance of the Federal Government. “It is important to clarify that NNPCL is a company governed under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), with a functional board and management. The Ministry of Petroleum Resources does not control or run NNPCL, as it operates independently like any corporate entity. “The oil and gas sector is fully deregulated, and the Nigerian government remains committed to promoting in-country refining. We encourage companies, including NNPCL, to operate independently, following global best practices. While we provide strategic guidance, we do not interfere directly in the operations of these companies.” Senator Lokpobiri said that the government is committed to, and would support the growth and independence of NNPCL, to ensure that its operations are in line with international standards for efficiency and transparency and profitability.
President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu has been scheduled to be buried on November 1, a couple of months after he died. He died on Thursday, July 25, 2024. The National Burial Committee for the burial told leaders and members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), in Abuja that the burial arrangements will begin next Wednesday, October 16, 2024 with a Day of Tributes at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The chairman of the National Burial Committee, Senator Ben Obi, who spoke through Professor Okey Ikechukwu, the chairman of the National Burial’s sub-committee on Media and Publicity, described the late President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo as “a distinguished national icon, leader, business mogul, sports philanthropist and patriot.” Professor Ikechukwu said that the Day of Tributes in Lagos with be followed by another Day of Tributes in Abuja, the nation’s Federal Capital Territory on Friday, October 18 at the National Ecumenical Centre. “Following this, on Saturday, October 26th, 2024, Chief Iwuanyanwu’s body will arrive Enugu, en-route Owerri. There shall be a grand reception first, at the OHANEZE Headquarters and then Tributes at the Michael Okpara Square before departure to Owerri. “The climax of the funeral rites will take place on Tuesday 29th, October, 2024, beginning with a Service of Songs in the Owerri. “The body will be conveyed to his hometown, Atta in Ikeduru Local Government Area, for a final Commendation Service and Interment on the 1st of November 2024.” Professor Ikechukwu said that the elaborate arrangement is necessary in order to ‘regenerate interest’ on the persona of Chief Iwuanyanwu. He said that the federal, state governors and local government functionaries governments, as well as major regional political and socio-cultural organisations, elder statesmen and women, youth and women organisations have reaffirmed their individual and collective resolve to give Chief Iwuanyanwu a befitting burial. He recalled that Chief Iwuanyanwu bestrode and impacted on the Nigerian economy with investments in media (publisher of Champion Newspapers), banking, sports (Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club), aviation (Oriental Airlines) and philanthropy. He said that the burial ceremonies would be used to celebrate and immortalise Chief Iwuanyanwu’s propriety and sense of value, stressing that it is not much about monuments or annual lectures. “I should use this occasion to express our profound gratitude to all Nigerians and well-wishers across the globe and the media, for their outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. “This is perhaps not entirely surprising, given that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo, is one of the few Nigerians who can be described as a gift of God to Ndigbo, to this country and to the world in general. “He touched many lives, communities and sectors in his long and eventful life. He invested heavily in nation building, group cohesion and the struggle for equity in our national life,l.” Professor Ikechukwu said that Chief Iwuanyanwu performed with distinction in all these areas and left lasting and indelible impressions.
As many communities are submerged in the current floods making it impossible for travelers to the north from the south, the Kogi State Government has opened up a 5-km alternate route in Nyamanyama Village along Ganaja-Ajaokuta Road to serve as a bye-pass. The action has been taken by the Kogi State Flood Disaster Response Team as the water levels are fast approaching the danger threshold. The team is headed by the State’s Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu Oyibo Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo had earlier directed the Team to immediately open up an alternate road to ensure that motorists do not suffer from the hardship of possible blockage of the main road by the increasing level of flood waters in the area. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that motorists and passengers are not subjected to hellish experiences on the road. The Commissioner for Works and a member of the Team, Mohammed Yusuf, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work on the road, saying that the measure had shown “responsive governance on the part of the governor.” This was even as the Commissioner for Information and Communications, who is also a member of the team, Kingsley Fanwo, told newsmen after inspecting the work today, October 6, that the flood has already reached a devastating stage at the moment. He said that the popular Ganaja-Ajaokuta Road remained the gateway to the South East and South South Nigeria, and that it is used by hundreds of thousands of commuters every day. “Over the years, commuters went through hell on that road in flood periods. But this measure is no doubt a saviour. The flood is already devastating. “Properties worth billions have already been lost. Houses, farmlands and other valuables have been washed away. Only 25 per cent of Ibaji Local Government is above water level right now. “The remaining 75 per cent are under the water. “Also, the entire Kupa District has been submerged. Ajaokuta, Gegu, Edeha and many other communities are already counting their losses. “The Federal Government should come to the rescue of Kogi State. Our resources are stretched as we strive to save the situation,” Fanwo said.
It’s time for Atiku Abubakar, who faced fierce opposition from Ex Governor Nyeson Wike of Rivers State when he contested the 2023 Presidential election on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to jubilate over what appeared to be the deflation of Wike’s attempt to assert political authourity as Godfather in the State. Atiku and Wike, who is now the minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), were in the PDP together during the 2023 elections, even till date. Reacting to the local government election which was conducted Saturday, October 5, in the state, with the party of the reigning Governor,Siminalayi Fubara, wining in 22 of the 23 local governments, Atiku said that people in the state have clearly shown their rejection of the Godfatherism being imposed by Wike. Atiku started by saying in a statement today, October 6, that with the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, “the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the State. “From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy! “As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.” Atiku congratulated the newly elected local government leaders and advised them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour, “shunning the path of tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavors.” The obviously aggreived PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 election, expressed happiness that “the resilient people of Rivers State were steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that the election unfolded with peace and integrity. “I must also applaud Governor Fubara for his unwavering commitment to the people’s interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections even amidst provocative challenges. “In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process.”
Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has concluded that insecurity has continued to persist in many parts of Nigeria because of weak governance, even as it called for urgent introduction of community policing to address it.
“It notes weak governance, inconsistent government policies and widespread corruption in the security forces as factors leading to compromising efforts in tackling insecurity effectively.”
In a Communique emanating from its two-day Annual Conference held in Lokoja, capital of Kogi State between October 2 and 3, GOCOP acknowledged the federal government’s efforts in significantly degrading the Boko Haram insurgency through the use of technology and intelligence, saying however that insurgent attacks have continued unabated, especially in the north-east region.
“The Conference therefore, calls for decentralization of security by granting state governments greater control over local security forces so as to improve regional responses to insecurity.
“It further advocates the urgent need to strengthen our local security architecture through Community Policing, which will no doubt improve intelligence gathering, foster trust between security forces and communities, and ensure a more proactive response to local threats.
“The Conference stresses the need for increased funding for Security Agencies, while emphasizing the need to reduce corruption in the procurement process so as to ensure judicious use of available resources.”
The Annual Conference which was hosted by the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, attracted the former Cross State, Chief Liyel Imoke as Keynote speaker; former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Yusuf Mamman as chairman of the occasion and other dignitaries, wanted the government o address the root causes of banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder conflicts. It advised the government to implement development initiatives targeting rural poverty and job creation.
“The Conference opines that tackling insecurity effectively depends largely on political will and the right leaders that will see corruption as evil and confront it frontally.
“It therefore charges members of GOCOP to take interest in interrogating the governance process that will ensure that committed and sincere leaders emerge to pilot the affairs of the country.”
The Conference said that there is a corollary relationship between poverty and insecurity, and therefore called for specific economic empowerment programs targeting the youths such as entrepreneurship training, and access to financing for small and medium enterprises, SMEs.
The full text of the Communique is reproduced hereunder:
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) held its 8th annual conference from October 2nd to 3rd, 2024, at Reverton Hotel in Lokoja, Kogi State. His Excellency, the Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, was the Chief Host.
The conference was attended by over 100 members of the Guild and dozens of invited guests from across the country.
The conference with the theme: “Nigeria: Tackling Insecurity, Power Deficit, And Transitioning To Digital Economy” was chaired by a former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Ambassador Mamman Yusuf, with a former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, as the Keynote Speaker.
A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai and the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission, (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, were Guest Speakers.
On the panel of discussants were: Prof. Rotimi Ajayi of the Department of Political Science, Federal University Lokoja and Ms Debrah Ogazuma, Edutainment Communicator and Veteran Broadcaster.
DAY ONE:
The morning session of Day One of the two-day event featured a capacity building programme on how members of GOCOP could improve on the visibility of their websites and how to generate revenue to survive the harsh business environment.
The resource persons were sourced from within members of the Guild. President Emeritus Dotun Oladipo, Publisher of THE EAGLE ONLINE, made a presentation on ‘Website Optimization’, emphasizing the need for members to ensure that their websites are on Google News.
Dr. Max Amuchie, Publisher of SUNDIATA POST, spoke on ‘Maximising Advertising Opportunities’, dwelling on the various revenue options available to online publishers.
The third presentation was made by Mr. Olumide Iyanda, Publisher of QED.NG, on ‘Leveraging Digital Marketing: Strategies for Online Publishers’.
He enjoined publishers to explore online platforms and technologies to promote their news stories and engage with audiences on the various digital platforms like Twitter (X handle), WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of GOCOP was also held in the afternoon during which GOCOP President Maureen Chigbo, presented a report on the State of GOCOP.
She highlighted key events that happened during the year under review like: employment of an Administrative Officer to man the GOCOP secretariat, various support packages that members benefited from through sponsored content and advertorials.
Ms Chigbo informed the congress that GOCOP is now a member of the National Media Complaints Commission (Media Ombudsman) which means our members are now under close watch.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR):
In pursuit of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), GOCOP President led members on a visit to two orphanage homes – Margaret Garba Ohiani Orphanage/Less Privileged Home and Rehoboth Children’s Homes, in Lokoja, during which various food items were donated.
On Day Two, after the successful hosting of the 2024 Conference, GOCOP issued the following communiqué, focusing on the three areas of the theme – Insecurity, Power Deficit and Digital Economy:
INSECURITY:
Since Nigeria returned to democracy 25 years ago, we have been experiencing security challenges ranging from Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatists agitations to Niger Delta militancy.
These security challenges have no doubt impacted negatively on the Nigerian economy thus, causing economic hardships on the citizens.
The Conference notes that poverty and high unemployment rate which is close to about 40% today are major factors contributing to insecurity across the country.
It notes weak governance, inconsistent government policies and widespread corruption in the security forces as factors leading to compromising efforts in tackling insecurity effectively.
The Conference acknowledges the federal government’s efforts in significantly degrading the Boko Haram insurgency through the use of technology and intelligence, and notes however, that insurgent attacks have continued unabated, especially in the north-east region.
The Conference therefore, calls for decentralization of security by granting state governments greater control over local security forces so as to improve regional responses to insecurity.
It further advocates the urgent need to strengthen our local security architecture through Community Policing, which will no doubt improve intelligence gathering, foster trust between security forces and communities, and ensure a more proactive response to local threats.
The Conference stresses the need for increased funding for Security Agencies, while emphasizing the need to reduce corruption in the procurement process so as to ensure judicious use of available resources.
To address the root causes of banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder conflicts, the government should implement development initiatives targeting rural poverty and job creation.
The Conference opines that tackling insecurity effectively depends largely on political will and the right leaders that will see corruption as evil and confront it frontally.
It therefore charges members of GOCOP to take interest in interrogating the governance process that will ensure that committed and sincere leaders emerge to pilot the affairs of the country.
The Conference realizes that there is a corollary relationship between poverty and insecurity. Hence, it calls for specific economic empowerment programs targeting the youths such as entrepreneurship training, and access to financing for small and medium enterprises, SMEs.
POWER DEFICIT:
In Nigeria, electricity supply remains one of the most significant constraints to economic growth despite several power reforms that have been introduced since 1999 by successive governments.
The Conference laments that despite huge resources that have been expended on electricity generation and distribution, Nigeria can only manage to deliver 4,000 to 5,000 megawatts.
It notes that Nigeria’s per capita electricity consumption which is around 150 to 200 kWh per year, is too low compared to other African countries and only reflects challenges in electricity access, infrastructure, and supply.
On the way forward in addressing Nigeria’s power deficit, the Conference enjoins conscious efforts aimed at diversifying generation capacity through investment that guarantees expansion of the gas pipeline network, to ensure more stable gas supply to power plants.
The Conference identifies the need to diversify Nigeria’s energy mix by increasing the share of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and small hydropower projects that could provide electricity to areas that are not well-served by the grid.
It observes that the current transmission system is not working hence, calls for the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria to allow greater private sector involvement in the transmission network.
The Conference advises the government to encourage more private sector investment in the power sector by creating a more stable and predictable regulatory environment to attract long-term investments.
It notes that this is achievable if the government could stick to agreed contracts, reduce political interference, and ensure a transparent regulatory process.
TRANSITIONING TO DIGITAL ECONOMY:
The significant gains recorded through liberalization of the telecommunications sector in 2001 notwithstanding, Nigeria still lags behind in digital infrastructure, digital literacy, and the adoption of digital technologies in government and business processes.
The Conference notes that transitioning to a Digital Economy remains a major challenge for the country due to inadequate broadband penetration and unreliable internet services.
It observes further that despite the fact that Nigeria boasts a young and dynamic population, digital literacy remains low, limiting the ability of the workforce to participate in the global digital economy.
The Conference agrees that Nigeria’s transition to a digital economy holds immense potential for transforming its economic landscape, creating jobs, and driving inclusive growth.
Therefore, to fast-track this transition, the Conference calls on the government to prioritize infrastructure development, digital literacy, favourable regulations, and indigenous innovation.
It also advises that the government should address challenges such as poor internet access, regulatory uncertainty, and cybersecurity risks, noting that opportunities in fintech, e-commerce, agritech, and digital services present significant growth potential for Nigeria.
The Conference lauds GOCOP for promoting responsible online publishing devoid of fake news, and urges its members to continue to discharge their responsibilities with patriotism.
GOCOP also charges its members to key into the various digital platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to promote their products or services and engage more with their audiences.
GOCOP thanks the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, members of the State Executive Council and the good people of the state for providing the necessary facilities that made the hosting of the 8th annual conference of the Guild a huge success.
GOCOP reiterates its commitment to continue to promote ethical and professional journalism, foster collaboration as well as advocate for the interests of online publishers in Nigeria.
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Mr. President, Affordable Fuel Is Possible At Zero Subsidy, By Dr. Aliyu U. Tilde
Yesterday evening, I listened attentively to a panel of experts and stakeholders on the BBC program Ra’ayi Riga, anchored by Umaima Sani Abdulmumin. The program ended with a big doubt in my mind regarding a matter purported to be a provision of OPEC and crucial to the price of petrol in Nigeria.
I could not fathom how particularly the representatives of NNPC and IPMAN stressed that Nigerians will be at the mercy of two variables: the international market and the price of the US Dollar in Nigeria. They said OPEC agreement compels member countries to sell allocated domestic crude at international rate even if refined locally. One of them even said the Iran-Israel conflict can cause domestic price of petrol in Nigeria to rise.
So we should expect higher fuel prices anytime the rate of the dollar appreciates in Nigeria and also when, for any reason, there is a rise in the cost of crude in the international market. It is the rule, according to them. Our fate, they claim, is sealed, regardless of our OPEC membership and Dangote refinery. Nigerians will no longer have a stable fuel price.
Trust me, in Nigeria, the equation will be simultaneous. At any given moment, a reason will be found to use either or both parameters to increase pump price. The target of government is to extract more revenue from citizens while the businessmen in Dangote, Major Marketers, NNPCL and IPMAN continue to feed their greed for endless profit with our blood.
One would wonder why OPEC would be so oppressive in inflicting such tyranny on the citizens of its members. Senator Ndume, who was in the panel, said if he cannot understand why, how would they expect a commoner sitting under the tree to do so?
The truth is that there is no provision like that in OPEC agreements. In fact, the very idea of domestic crude quota arose in realization that citizens of member countries may need to enjoy cheaper oil than the international market price. That is why those citizens have been enjoying cheaper fuel for the past five decades in different countries. Many still do. Why not Nigerians?
If you ask ChatGPT whether OPEC agreement compels member countries to sell crude for domestic consumption at international market price only, this is the answer you get:
“OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) does not directly compel member countries to sell crude oil for domestic consumption at international market prices. OPEC’s primary role is to coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries to stabilize oil markets and secure a steady supply of oil.
“However, OPEC’s production quotas, agreements on output levels, and policies can indirectly influence domestic oil pricing. In practice, many OPEC members choose to sell crude oil domestically at subsidized rates or prices lower than the international market. This decision is made at the discretion of individual member countries, often as part of national energy policies aimed at supporting domestic economies and industries. Nonetheless, these policies may vary from one member country to another depending on domestic priorities and economic strategies.
“There is no formal OPEC rule that requires domestic sales to match international prices, though it can be influenced by international agreements and market pressures.”
The truth is that the President and Minister of Petroleum can sell our 445,000 barrels a day to Dangote at even N50,000/barrel after taking into consideration the cost of extraction and OPEC will not raise any eyebrow. Dangote can charge the cost of refining, add his profit and sell to NNPCL and IPMAN at, say, N300/litre. On their part the marketers will add their cost of transportation, storage, profit, etc., and sell it to Nigerians at N400/litre. And—boom—we all will be happy.
It is entirely the discretion of the President and his government. So whoever wants to sell our locally produced fuel by that simultaneous equation is on his own. There is no OPEC in the equation.
Also, among those who would fight against Nigerians enjoying affordable fuel rates are the IMF, World Bank and the West generally. They want the government to squeeze us the more such that we can service our debts and collect more loans from the Shylock. The age long philosophy is: our poverty, their wealth; our pain, their joy.
Added to these are local liberal economists who believe in high taxation, claiming that the blood money will be used to develop our infrastructure, health, education, etc. It is just the same old bunkum selling since 1986 at the debut of Naira devaluation while our infrastructure, hospitals and schools continue to deteriorate in rebuttal of that thesis.
I call on the President to consider the low income status of our citizen. Only affordable fuel price will hold together our social fabric, ensure our prosperity and guarantee our security. It is zero subsidy because we are not buying it from anyone. It is our oil.
The President must keep in mind that the IMF and oil magnates are not his partners in 2027. He is on his own. They will be there to outlive him and work with the next President. Let this sink into his psyche. Tam!
Dr. Aliyu U. Tilde wrote in from Abuja