Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and Senator Akpabio are set to meet President Tinubu to fast-track Nigeria’s delayed population census. Learn about the biometric census plans and government’s next steps. IntroductionThe Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has raised concerns about the prolonged delay in conducting a national population census, emphasizing its crucial role in determining Nigeria’s true population figures. Key Highlights: Why the Census Is UrgentDuring a meeting with NPC Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra and Director-General Dr. Ojogun Tellson Osifo, Speaker Abbas stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to operate without updated population data. He pointed out that the last census was conducted 19 years ago, an unacceptable delay for a nation of Nigeria’s size. Abbas emphasized that biometric technology is vital for ensuring accurate population data collection while optimizing resource allocation. Government’s Role and Next StepsTo fast-track progress, Abbas announced plans to meet with President Tinubu following discussions with Senate President Akpabio. He highlighted the importance of securing adequate funding for the NPC, considering its current budget constraints. “I will be part of those engaging Mr. President on conducting the census this year,” Abbas affirmed, adding that this exercise could become a historic milestone and a legacy achievement for the Tinubu administration. NPC’s Preparedness and Legislative SupportNPC Chairman Hon. Kwarra provided updates on the Commission’s preparations, including acquiring advanced technology, recruiting and training census officials, setting up a monitoring situation room, and engaging former Presidents and ex-Heads of State for advocacy. To ensure the successful execution of the census, Kwarra urged the National Assembly to support the initiative by approving necessary funding and passing enabling laws. ConclusionWith growing momentum and the backing of key political figures, the biometric national census is expected to take shape in 2025. If successfully conducted, it will provide Nigeria with essential demographic data, aiding economic planning, resource allocation, and governance. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The U.S. government has officially suspended financial aid for HIV treatment programs in Nigeria and other developing nations following an executive order from former President Donald Trump. This decision has triggered a temporary freeze on funding from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), affecting millions of people who rely on these critical health services. Key Highlights: Reasons for the Suspension The funding suspension stems from an executive order signed on Trump’s first day in office. This directive instructed all U.S. agencies managing foreign aid to temporarily stop disbursing funds. Public health experts warn that unless an exemption is granted, this freeze could last beyond the initial 90-day period, potentially leading to the complete termination of PEPFAR’s operations in certain regions. Impact on Global HIV/AIDS TreatmentPEPFAR has played a pivotal role in combating HIV/AIDS across Africa and beyond. With over 20.6 million beneficiaries globally, the program has been instrumental in providing life-saving treatment and strengthening healthcare infrastructure. However, U.S. officials have justified the pause, stating that the government seeks to ensure that American taxpayer dollars yield tangible benefits. According to U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, the U.S. “is no longer going to blindly dole out money with no return for the American people.” Nigeria’s Struggle Amidst Funding Cuts Nigeria, one of the nations most affected by HIV, is facing severe repercussions from the funding halt. PEPFAR has invested over $6 billion in Nigeria’s HIV response, significantly reducing transmission rates and increasing access to antiretroviral treatment. Without continued funding, millions of Nigerians could be at risk of losing essential healthcare support. Public Health Concerns and Future Outlook Health experts express deep concerns over the long-term effects of the funding suspension. The sudden disruption of HIV treatment programs could lead to a surge in infections and fatalities. Advocacy groups urge swift action to reinstate funding and prevent a major public health crisis. Conclusion The suspension of PEPFAR funding under Trump’s administration poses a significant threat to global HIV/AIDS efforts. As discussions continue, affected countries, including Nigeria, hope for a resolution that safeguards millions of lives dependent on these crucial health programs. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Introduction Renowned politician and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has raised concerns over the deteriorating state of democracy in Nigeria, attributing it to the alarming rate of poverty in the country. In a recent post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi emphasized the urgent need for leaders to prioritize economic progress and strengthen independent institutions to restore democracy’s true essence. Poverty Threatens the Core of Nigerian Democracy Peter Obi highlighted the stark reality of Nigeria’s economic crisis, stating that over 100 million Nigerians live in absolute poverty, while approximately 150 million experience multidimensional poverty. He argued that democracy, at its core, should serve as a tool for addressing the fundamental needs of the people, particularly in critical sectors such as: Call for Institutional Strengthening and Economic Growth To salvage democracy in Nigeria, Obi urged leaders to focus on:✔️ Strengthening independent institutions that promote accountability, justice, and fairness.✔️ Encouraging good governance that fosters economic and social progress.✔️ Promoting active citizenship to ensure leaders are held accountable.✔️ Empowering the youth to play a crucial role in nation-building. Lessons from Mandela: A Call for Action Citing Nelson Mandela, Obi reiterated that “as long as poverty, injustice, and inequality exist, none of us can truly rest.” He warned that Africa’s fragile democracies could continue to weaken unless there is a collective commitment to good governance and nation-building. The Future of Democracy in Africa Obi emphasized that democracy must go beyond mere elections to truly reflect the will of the people. He called for:? Trust-building in governance? Reinforcement of democratic institutions? Upholding the rule of law and respect for citizens’ rights Without these, he warned, governance would fail to deliver tangible benefits to the people, and democracy would remain a mere façade rather than a vehicle for progress. Conclusion Peter Obi’s message serves as a wake-up call for Nigerian leaders to address rising poverty and restore the essence of democracy. As Africa faces increasing instability and democratic setbacks, he insists that the time to act is now—before democracy loses its relevance completely. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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In a ceremony held at the Oyo/Osun Area Command’s Operational Headquarters in Ibadan, 95 officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) were decorated after their successful promotion in the recent exercise. Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Controller of the Command, led the event on Monday, honoring the promoted officers and men who had reached the next rank. The announcement came through a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Kayode Wey, and made available to news outlets in Ibadan. The promotion ceremony saw attendance from the Command’s officers, their colleagues, and well-wishers, all gathered to celebrate the newly elevated individuals. In his remarks, Dr. Oramalugo extended congratulations to the officers and men, highlighting their hard work, dedication, and the invaluable contributions they had made to the Command’s success. He emphasized that the promotions were not only well-deserved but also reflected their integrity and professionalism throughout their careers. “It’s a proud moment for our Command as we celebrate the resilience and excellence that each of you has shown to reach this milestone,” Oramalugo said. He added that the promotion was proof of the officers’ commitment to the core values of the Nigeria Customs Service and the national mission to foster prosperity and security. The Controller encouraged the promoted officers to continue exemplifying integrity and professionalism as they move forward in their careers. He also praised the officers from different units and departments within the Command, noting that their new ranks marked significant career milestones. “The promotion ceremony highlights both personal achievement and our collective commitment to the high standards that define the Nigeria Customs Service,” he said. Oramalugo reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to continuous professional development and capacity building for all officers. Lastly, he urged the newly promoted officers to be role models for their colleagues, fostering growth, intelligence, and positive contributions to the NCS. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Former NBA Chairman Bayo Akinlade calls out the unethical collusion between lawyers and police in Nigeria, citing the unlawful detention of Engineer Muyiwa Saanumi over a civil dispute. Former NBA Chairman Raises Alarm Over Legal System Exploitation The former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikorodu Branch, Mr. Bayo Akinlade, has expressed deep concern over the increasing collaboration between lawyers and the police in violating citizens’ fundamental rights. Highlighting a recent case involving Engineer Muyiwa Saanumi, Akinlade criticized the misuse of legal and law enforcement processes, which he claims are being weaponized to oppress individuals rather than uphold justice. Engineer Detained Over Civil Dispute According to reports, Engineer Muyiwa Saanumi has been unlawfully detained for over two weeks at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, following his arrest on January 16, 2025. The arrest was based on a petition filed by Mrs. Olubusola Akinbiyi, Deputy General Manager at the Lagos State Property Development Corporation (LSDPC), in connection to a ₦100 million loan dispute—a matter that is purely civil in nature. Akinlade emphasized that Saanumi’s prolonged detention violates legal provisions that mandate a suspect’s right to bail or timely arraignment. Legal Abuse and Alleged Extortion Attempts Saanumi’s lawyer, E. Ayo, has made several attempts to secure his release, but these have been unsuccessful. There are allegations that the complainant and her lawyer are demanding a substantial repayment before agreeing to his bail conditions. “This is a serious abuse of legal procedures and a clear attempt to use law enforcement for private financial disputes,” Akinlade remarked. He further condemned this act as a gross violation of professional ethics, warning that such misconduct by lawyers and law enforcement officers damages the credibility of the justice system. Call for NBA Intervention and Disciplinary Actions To address the issue, Akinlade is urging the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to investigate this troubling case. He stressed that if such practices are not checked, they will undermine the rule of law and further weaken public trust in the legal system. The NBA, he insisted, must take immediate and decisive action to curb these unethical practices and ensure that lawyers remain committed to protecting citizens’ rights rather than enabling police misconduct. Key Takeaways READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) opened the week on a bullish note, as the All-Share Index (ASI) climbed by 0.79%, closing at 104,418.95 basis points. This surge pushed the year-to-date (YTD) return to 1.45%, signaling a positive start for investors. Market capitalization also followed an upward trend, rising 1.24% to N64.44 trillion. This boost was largely due to the listing of 4,705,800,290 ordinary shares of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) at N44.50 per share, adding a remarkable N471.4 billion to the equities market by the close of the session. As a result, the overall YTD return settled at +1.5%. Investor Sentiment: Bulls Take Charge Market sentiment remained optimistic, with 38 stocks gaining against 30 decliners. The top-performing stocks of the day included: On the flip side, the biggest losers were: Sectoral Performance: Mixed Reactions Across Boards The market’s performance varied across different sectors: ✅ Gainers: ❌ Decliners: Trading Volume and Activity Surge The session saw a 52.42% increase in the number of deals, with a total of 17,196 transactions, while the total traded value jumped 54.72% to N13.3 billion. However, the total volume of shares traded dropped by 9.01%, settling at 518.28 million units. ? Most Traded Stocks by Volume: ? Most Traded Stock by Value: Conclusion: Bullish Sentiments Prevail The equities market kicked off the week on a strong footing, driven by renewed investor confidence and strategic listings. With positive movements in the banking and consumer goods sectors, investors are optimistic about sustained momentum in the coming sessions. Will the market sustain its bullish trend, or will sell-offs pull it back? Stay updated with the latest stock market movements! READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The AI Revolution and Its Global Impact The world is undergoing a seismic shift driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), reshaping economies, industries, and societies at a pace rivaling the Industrial Revolution. Leading this charge are nations like the United States and China, leveraging AI to drive innovation, strengthen their economies, and assert global dominance. PwC projects that AI will contribute a staggering $4.4 trillion to the global economy by 2030, emphasizing its role as the foundation of future prosperity. However, amidst this rapid transformation, Nigeria faces a critical challenge. The country lags due to poor infrastructure, limited political will, and inadequate investment in technology. If urgent steps are not taken, Nigeria risks being left behind in an era where AI determines economic power and technological influence. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under 25 years old, the potential to build an AI-driven future exists, but only if decisive action is taken now. This article explores the AI revolution’s impact on Nigeria, America’s growing AI dominance, and the crucial steps Nigeria must take to remain relevant in this global transformation. The US AI Dominance and Trump’s Second Term AI Strategy The United States is at the forefront of AI innovation, fueled by fierce competition with China. AI is not just an economic tool but also a matter of national security and geopolitical influence. Recognizing AI’s significance early on, Donald Trump’s second-term administration launched the $500 billion “Stargate Project”—a landmark initiative aimed at advancing AI research, expanding AI infrastructure, and fostering technological education. Named after a fictional device enabling instantaneous space travel, the project signifies America’s ambition to leap ahead in the AI race. Key measures under Trump’s AI strategy include: The integration of AI into various sectors—military, healthcare, finance, and governance—has further cemented America’s leadership. For instance, IBM’s Watson AI has revolutionized healthcare, reducing diagnostic errors by up to 30% and providing more personalized treatments. What Does This Mean for Nigeria? 1. Economic Risks and Missed Opportunities AI is projected to add trillions of dollars to the global economy, but Nigeria risks being excluded due to poor technological readiness and an over-reliance on oil. In 2022, oil exports accounted for 90% of Nigeria’s export revenue, making the country highly vulnerable to fluctuations in the global energy market. With countries shifting toward AI-driven economies, Nigeria’s economic future remains uncertain unless it diversifies and embraces AI innovation. 2. Energy Challenges and Declining Oil Demand AI infrastructure requires enormous energy resources, prompting countries like the US to pursue energy sufficiency and expand renewable energy adoption. This shift could reduce global dependence on fossil fuels, leading to lower oil prices and economic instability for Nigeria. 3. The Future of Employment and Workforce Readiness The rise of AI will disrupt global employment. According to the World Economic Forum, AI will displace 85 million jobs by 2025, but create 97 million new roles requiring advanced digital skills. Nigeria’s lack of AI expertise is alarming: Without significant investment in STEM education and AI training, Nigeria faces massive job losses and economic displacement. Why is Nigeria Lagging Behind in AI? Nigeria’s failure to integrate AI into its economic framework stems from several critical gaps: 1. Absence of a National AI Strategy Unlike global competitors, Nigeria has no national AI policy, resulting in missed opportunities to partner with tech leaders or participate in AI-driven economies. 2. Poor STEM Education and Digital Literacy Nigeria’s education system does not prioritize AI, coding, or STEM training, leaving the workforce ill-equipped for the AI revolution. 3. Weak Government Commitment and Leadership Gaps Many Nigerian policymakers lack AI knowledge, focusing on short-term political interests instead of long-term technological advancement. 4. Limited Private Sector Involvement Nigeria’s tech ecosystem remains underdeveloped, with few AI research initiatives and startups. Without private-sector investment, AI growth will stagnate. Can Nigeria Catch Up? The Path to AI Readiness To avoid being left behind, Nigeria must take immediate action to position itself as an AI-driven economy. Five key strategies can drive this transformation: 1. Invest in Reliable and Affordable Energy AI infrastructure demands massive energy resources. Nigeria must modernize its power grid, invest in renewable energy, and promote energy efficiency to support AI development. 2. Build AI Infrastructure and Data Centers Developing cloud storage, high-speed internet, and AI-friendly infrastructure is crucial for digital transformation. Public-private partnerships can accelerate this process. 3. Overhaul the Education System Nigeria must: 4. Foster AI Research and Innovation 5. Develop AI Policies and Regulations Conclusion: The Urgency of AI Adoption in Nigeria The AI revolution is reshaping global economies, and nations that fail to adapt risk economic irrelevance. Nigeria’s future depends on its ability to embrace AI, invest in education, and build a sustainable technological ecosystem. The stakes are high—without decisive action, Nigeria risks economic marginalization, job losses, and reduced global influence. However, with strategic leadership, investments in AI infrastructure, and education reforms, Nigeria can secure a competitive position in the AI-driven future. The time to act is NOW. Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Nigeria’s e-payment transactions surged by 59% YoY to N284.4 trillion in 2024. Discover key insights into NIP, Mobile Money trends, and fraud cases. Overview of E-Payment Growth in Nigeria Nigeria’s electronic payment sector witnessed significant growth in 2024, with transaction values soaring by 59.3% year-on-year (YoY) to N284.4 trillion, compared to N178.5 trillion recorded in 2023. This surge underscores the increasing adoption of digital financial services across the country. Breakdown of E-Payment Transactions According to data from the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS), the NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) platform recorded the highest e-payment transaction volume and value in 2024: Following NIP transactions, Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) contributed significantly to the digital payment landscape with: Year-on-Year (YoY) Comparison A further breakdown of transaction trends in 2024 compared to 2023 highlights key changes: Fraud Trends in E-Payment Transactions Despite the impressive growth in digital transactions, fraud remains a critical concern. The NIBSS 2023 Fraud Landscape Report revealed that: Conclusion Nigeria’s e-payment sector continues to expand rapidly, driven by increased reliance on digital transactions. However, with the rising adoption of mobile payments and instant transfers, stakeholders must enhance fraud prevention measures to sustain this growth. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Introduction The adoption of electronic payment systems in Nigeria continues to grow significantly, with transaction values soaring by 59.3% year-on-year (YoY) to an impressive N284.4 trillion in 2024, up from N178.5 trillion in 2023. This growth reflects the increasing reliance on digital financial solutions, fueled by advancements in fintech, mobile banking, and electronic payment infrastructure. Breakdown of E-Payment Transactions NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) Leads the Market Data from the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) highlights that NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) recorded the highest number and value of transactions in 2024. Despite this dominance, the value of NIP transactions experienced an 8.69% decline from N115 trillion in 2023 to N105 trillion in 2024, even as the transaction volume increased by 92%, rising from 8.49 billion in 2023 to 10.47 billion in 2024. Mobile Money Transactions Experience a Major Boost Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) also witnessed remarkable growth in transaction volume and value: This increase underscores the rising adoption of mobile money platforms, which provide seamless, cashless transactions for individuals and businesses alike. Fraud Trends in E-Payment Transactions While electronic payment adoption continues to expand, concerns over fraud remain. According to the 2023 Fraud Landscape Report by NIBSS, the number of recorded fraud cases declined from 101,669 in 2022 to 95,620 in 2023. However, mobile e-payment fraud saw a 5% increase, making it the most targeted channel for financial crimes. Conclusion The rapid rise in electronic transactions across various platforms, including NIP and mobile money services, highlights Nigeria’s shift towards a more digital financial ecosystem. However, with this growth comes the need for enhanced security measures to mitigate fraud risks. As fintech innovations continue to evolve, ensuring safe, fast, and efficient digital transactions remains a priority for both financial institutions and users. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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FCSC Announces 2025 Recruitment Exercise – Apply Now! The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has officially launched its 2025 nationwide recruitment exercise, inviting eligible Nigerians to apply for various positions within the Federal Civil Service. Application Details and Deadline According to a statement released on Monday by Taiwo Hassan, the Head of Press and Public Relations, interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the official FCSC recruitment portal:? https://recruitment.fedcivilservice.gov.ng ? Application Deadline: Monday, March 10, 2025? Application Limit: Candidates can only apply for one position Inclusive Opportunity for All The FCSC has emphasized that physically challenged individuals are also encouraged to apply, urging them to clearly indicate the nature of their disability in their application. Documents Required for Application Applicants must upload the following essential documents during their application process: ✅ Curriculum Vitae (CV)✅ Degree Certificates✅ Birth Certificate or Age Declaration✅ Local Government Identification✅ NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate Commitment to a Transparent Recruitment Process The Federal Civil Service Commission assures all applicants that the recruitment process will be fair, transparent, and merit-based, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are selected to serve in the Federal Civil Service. For additional information and detailed guidelines, visit the official FCSC website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Lagos, Nigeria – The management of Smiley Kids Montessori School in Sangotedo, Lagos, has expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate death of a two-year-old preschool pupil, Raphaella Ogbodo, who tragically lost her life in the school’s swimming pool on January 15, 2025. The school has assured the public that it is fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies to facilitate a transparent investigation into the incident. Conflicting Claims on the Cause of Death The circumstances surrounding Raphaella’s death have sparked controversy, as her parents allege that she was electrocuted before being placed in the pool to make it appear as a drowning incident. This claim has intensified public concerns and demands for clarity on what truly transpired. School’s Official Statement In an official statement issued on January 27, 2025, the school described the tragedy as devastating and extended condolences to the bereaved family. “It is with profound sadness that Smiley Kids Montessori School announces the tragic loss of our beloved preschool pupil, Raphaella Ogbodo. We are deeply heartbroken by this unfortunate incident that occurred at our swimming pool. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Ogbodo family during this time of unimaginable grief.” Cooperation with Authorities & Temporary Closure The school emphasized its commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies and government bodies to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation. As a precautionary measure, Smiley Kids Montessori School has been temporarily closed until further notice. “We understand that this tragedy has raised serious concerns among parents and the public. We remain committed to sharing updates as more details emerge.” Appeal for Privacy & Support for the Family The school urged the public to exercise patience and allow the investigative process to unfold. It also called for privacy and respect for the grieving family. “In this moment of great sorrow, we kindly request patience and understanding from the public. We ask that the Ogbodo family be given the space to mourn their loss without undue pressure or speculation.” Ongoing Investigation & Public Interest The tragic loss of Raphaella Ogbodo has drawn widespread attention, with many demanding justice and a clear account of the events leading to her death. Authorities have assured the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident. Conclusion As this heartbreaking situation unfolds, parents and the wider community eagerly await further updates from the police and school authorities. The coming days will be crucial in determining what truly happened to Raphaella Ogbodo and ensuring that justice prevails. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The price of rice in Nigeria has skyrocketed from ₦2,500 in 2000 to ₦105,000 in 2024. Discover the reasons behind the surge, including policy shifts, insecurity, and economic instability. Introduction The price of rice, Nigeria’s most consumed staple food, has witnessed an astronomical rise over the years. From ₦2,500 per 50kg bag in 2000 to an unprecedented ₦105,000 in 2024, the reasons behind this sharp increase are multifaceted. While policies like the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP) once boosted local rice production, recent economic challenges, policy shifts, and insecurity have driven prices beyond the reach of many Nigerians. The Rise and Fall of Nigeria’s Rice Production Boom A Historic Feat: The Rice Pyramid Initiative On January 18, 2022, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in collaboration with the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, celebrated a milestone in local rice production by unveiling massive rice pyramids in Abuja. This achievement was a testament to the success of the ABP, launched in 2015 to reduce rice imports and boost local production. The initiative led to significant growth in Nigeria’s rice industry, with integrated rice mills increasing from just six in 2015 to over 50 by 2021. As a result, rice imports from Thailand fell from 1.3 million metric tons in 2014 to only 2,160 metric tons in 2021, saving Nigeria billions in foreign exchange. Why Rice Prices Have Skyrocketed 1. Policy Reversals and Economic Challenges Despite earlier successes, policy inconsistencies and economic difficulties reversed much of the progress. In 2023, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on food security, yet food inflation continued to rise. By July 2024, the government introduced a 150-day duty-free import window for rice, maize, and wheat, hoping to stabilize prices. However, this move sparked controversy, with experts warning that it could harm local farmers. 2. Currency Devaluation and Rising Costs The depreciation of the naira has had a direct impact on food prices. With the local currency losing significant value, the cost of imported agricultural inputs like fertilizers and machinery has surged, making local rice production more expensive. 3. Insecurity and Supply Chain Disruptions Widespread insecurity in major rice-producing regions has discouraged farming activities. Farmers struggle with threats from bandits, kidnappers, and herdsmen, leading to reduced production. According to Peter Dama, President of the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria, local rice production dropped from 8.4 million metric tons in 2021 to 8.1 million metric tons in 2024. 4. High Demand vs. Low Supply Nigeria’s rice demand continues to rise, with consumption expected to reach 10 million metric tons in 2024. However, local production meets only 57% of this demand, creating a supply deficit that drives up prices. Government and Stakeholders’ Efforts to Stabilize Rice Prices 1. Importation vs. Local Production The federal government’s decision to temporarily open rice imports has faced criticism from stakeholders like Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). He warns that reliance on imports could undermine Nigeria’s agricultural policies and long-term food security. 2. Calls for a Regional Approach to Rice Farming Agricultural experts argue that a decentralized, region-based strategy could help boost production. Engr. Daniel Ijeh, CEO of EA Daniels Farm, advocates for state and local governments to take a more active role in rice farming, leveraging regional ecological advantages. 3. Lagos State’s Push for Food Security Lagos State is leading food security efforts by investing in large-scale food logistics infrastructure. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced plans for a food logistics hub in Ketu-Ejinrin, aimed at improving supply chains and ensuring stable food availability. Conclusion: The Way Forward The dramatic increase in rice prices underscores the urgent need for sustainable agricultural policies. To achieve long-term stability, the government must prioritize: Without these interventions, the dream of rice self-sufficiency in Nigeria may remain out of reach. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Tinubu, through Vice President Shettima, expresses deep concern over the frequent tanker explosions in Nigeria. Learn about the government’s commitment to preventing such tragedies and supporting victims in Enugu State. Vice President Kashim Shettima has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply troubled by the alarming frequency of tanker explosions across public roads and residential areas in Nigeria. These incidents, which often result in tragic loss of lives and property, have become a pressing issue for the government. Shettima conveyed this concern in his condolence message to the Enugu State Government and the families of victims affected by the recent tanker explosion in the state. Tragic Tanker Explosion in Enugu StateOn Saturday, January 25, 2025, a fuel tanker veered off its path and burst into flames along the Ugwu-Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. The devastating accident claimed multiple lives, left several injured, and caused significant damage to property. Vice President Shettima expressed his profound grief over the incident, noting that such accidents are both avoidable and preventable with proper measures. Government’s Commitment to Addressing Tanker ExplosionsShettima reassured Nigerians that the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is taking decisive steps to prevent future tanker explosions. “The President is deeply concerned and disturbed by the repeated occurrences of tanker explosions, especially in public and residential areas. These incidents, which are entirely avoidable, must be addressed urgently,” Shettima said. He added that the government would collaborate with relevant agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), state transportation ministries, and road traffic authorities, to develop proactive strategies to reduce tanker-related accidents. Condolences and Support for VictimsThe Vice President extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Enugu State, particularly the families of the victims. He prayed for the souls of the departed and a speedy recovery for the injured. “I express my profound condolences to the government and people of Enugu State, especially the families that lost their loved ones and those currently receiving treatment. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time,” he said. ConclusionThis tragic event serves as a call to action for both the government and relevant stakeholders to address the root causes of tanker explosions and ensure public safety. Vice President Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing lasting solutions to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
