tet

TETFund: Bogoro, a pacesetter in Research and Development

by with No Comment EducationICT

Prof. Suleiman Elias Bogoro, the Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Fund (TETFund), is a great thinker, scholar  and a 21st Century modern day leader with a clear vision and mission . In line with the cardinal objectives of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Bogoro continues to introduce policies  on research and development while he also ensures continued support to TETFund-sponsored scholars through to the end of their academic programmes.

To place Nigeria on the path of sustainable productivity and R & D innovation are his objectives. This, along with his culture of integrity, are what made President Muhammadu Buhari bring him back into office for the second time in 2019.  With this reinstatement, he has been firing on all cylinders to create a formidable path for the development of Nigeria, making TETfund a global brand, and putting emphasis  sustainable researches and innovation that embrace issues such as renewable energy, among others. In this way he is on the right path as you take TETfund to the next and desired level in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s vision of altruistic transformation of our education system.

“I humbly pledge to keep the dream and hope of our dear President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) alive as a way of making TETFund the hallmark of a success story in our education sector”. That was Prof Bogoro, Executive Secretary, TETFund, as captured by Aljazerah newspaper in 2015. That was during his first tenure.

As a man of action whose intention is very clear about education,  Bogoro, in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s transparent and accountability policy, has been working hard in the area R& D as well as monitoring of TETfund-sponsored participants to local and foreign conferences to ensure that staff of beneficiary institutions attend the conference as approved for them by the Board of Trustees of TETfund.

To help Bogoro realize this ambition, the Federal Government reviewed its National Research Fund (NRF) domiciled with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to N7.5 billion for 2020 from an initial N5 billion in 2019. The agency also said the latest increase in the fund makes it the largest holder of research grants in Nigeria.

The National Research Fund was established pursuant to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act 2011 for the resuscitation of research activities in Nigerian institutions. Bogoro, said this at the 2020 TETFund Board of Trustees (BOT) Retreat in Abuja.

He disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari also approved the establishment of six medical simulation research and clinical training facilities in six colleges of medicine in each geopolitical zone within the year. According to him, the approval provided an opportunity for TETFund to provide 12 COVID-19 and related infectious disease molecular laboratories, two in each geopolitical zone, “making the fund the highest single provider of such test centres in Nigeria.”

“The BOT also approved that TETFund sponsors some COVID-19 research proposals to the tune of over N200 million, mainly from Universities and NAFDAC, this being one of the reasons TETFund has recently been made the secretariat for the Nigeria COVID-19 Research Consortium R&D,” he said. He also asserted that the board of trustees of TETFund also approved over N200 million, to sponsor some COVID-19 research proposals mainly from universities and NAFDAC.

“In addition, the BOT also endorsed and (this) was subsequently approved by the President, that six medical simulation research and clinical Training facilities in six colleges of medicine (one in each geopolitical zone) are to be established this year.”

The TETFund boss noted that approval had been granted for TETFund to commit funds “to reverse the embarrassing situation of hostel accommodation in tertiary institutions and make learning environment more attractive for local and foreign students.”

He added that 15 per cent of Nigerian students were living in hostel accommodation in their institutions, disclosing that the BoT has also directed the management of the agency to make recommendations towards migration of e-learning consistent with global best practice.

Speaking on the achievements of TETFund between 2011 and 2019, the BoT Chairman, Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, said the fund constructed 80 auditoriums and lecture theatres in the 223 benefitting institutions.

Ibrahim-Imam said the fund also constructed 500 classrooms, 2,383 administrative and staff offices, 40 fully equipped libraries, 250 science laboratories, 38 ICT centres, 8 medical centres and sick bays, 100 vehicles and major infrastructures in the 12 newly established federal universities.

“To consolidate on the achievements, the TETFund has made provision in the 2020 budget for emergency special intervention to the University of Abuja and special high impact projects to six universities, one from each geopolitical zone,” he said

He said the agency will provide take-off grants to the six newly created federal polytechnics, one in each geo-political zone, and construct over 200,000 hostel accommodation in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to tackle the deficit of accommodation in the institutions.

“We will scale up the provision of fit-for-purpose infrastructure, result-oriented research, and cutting-edge technology to our tertiary institutions. And we will do all these with utmost integrity,” he said.

And as 2020 rolls gradually gently on,  Bogoro  is achieveing his purpose at TETfund. He continues to see the seeds of his labour blossom, with many flowers. In September this year, he set up R & D committee in order to be able to realize his ambition of making Nigeria an innovation hub..

Sometimes ago, he revealed that over 60% of lecturers in the Nigerian University system today are now Doctorate degree holders as against 40 per cent that was obtainable four years ago. Bogoro’s reforms also include the maximum sponsorship of three years for Doctorate degree programme to four years’ period.

“When we started the idea of supporting Masters’ Degree, but mainly PhD sponsorship both overseas and local at that time, only 40% of Nigerian lecturers had PhDs. After about three to four years of that intervention, the percentage went up to 60% and today we believe it is in the region of 70 to 80 per cent,which is a significant improvement,” Prof. Bogoro stated.

On impact assessment committee, Prof. Bogoro said his team has succeeded in putting up an independent committee. The leadership and composition are exclusively made up of independent persons. The document tells the story of TETfund from 1999 to 2019. Bogoro said: “In our own way of opening up ourselves for public scrutiny, where we have weakness, we will be happy to be reflective, go back and be guided by their suggestions.”

At the polytechnic level, Prof Bogoro’s intervention includes: fabrication intervention. Nigerian polytechnics get subvention annually for fabrication while Colleges of Education (COEs) are also not left out. Bogoro’s initiatives at the COEs also include the support of teaching practice as well as making available micro teaching laboratory equipment and at the universities, Entrepreneurship Fund is provided by TETFund and Bogoro is deliberately encouraging it knowing well that knowledge is power and very relevant.

“Let our graduates be job creators, not only employable which is a higher threshold than just being employable” Prof. Bogoro was quoted to have said in The Nation newspaper of December 7th, 2019. Manuscript development is also one of key interventions under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, which include; the support of textbook production by lecturers and supporting the transformation of PhD thesis to textbook and in line with this, the technical advisory committee inaugurated recently is doing well in this regard.

Bogoro said: “There are also journals, which is another area of intervention by TETFund. There is mechanical pathology, anthropology, criminology of artificial intelligence, artificial dissemination, which applies to every discipline including ICT, Architects and Society of Engineers and so forth.

If Bogoro could achieve these feats within one year of his reinstatement  then one could say, without any fear of contradiction that the TETfund supremo has been a change agent, working to  bring a new lease of life to higher education system in Nigeria in no distant time. But what have been the magic behind  Bogoro’s success?

He revealed that the underline factor for his achievements is focus coupled with team work as captured by Henry Ford’s quote who said: ‘Working Together is Success.  “Focus is secret of my numerous achievements recorded since assumption of office and I have justified the confidence reposed in me as the Executive Secretary TETfund by turning around the stories of Nigerian’s public tertiary institutions within the shortest time that I took over the mantle of leadership of TETfund.”

Obviously, one of the pillars of support working with the executive secretary is Dr Dr Salihu  Girei Bakari.

TETFund, has tasked researchers in the academic community to end the myriad of problems confronting Nigeria through research.This came as it explained that its recent exposure of some illegalities being perpetuated by some scholars over money for foreign studies, was aimed at stopping the unwholesome trends.

TETFund’s Director of Research and Development, Dr Salihu  Girei Bakari, said these in Dubai, the United Arab Emirate, UAE, during the just concluded capacity building workshop it organised for researchers drawn from selected universities in Nigeria.

Bakari said challenge thrown at academic researchers came against the backdrop of too much concentration on research publications, rather than addressing the immediate needs of development.he added that the TETFund’s new focus in providing grants for research and development activities in tertiary institutions was borne out of a need to create leverages where contemporary challenges in Nigeria would be resolved.

According to him, the concern raised by the Fund concerning misapplication of scholarly funds by beneficiaries was aimed changing the trend.

“I won’t call it diversion, there is nothing like diversion anywhere because TETFund by law is supposed to disburse and administer funds, so there are always guidelines.

Speaking on the report quoting the organisation of accusing scholars of diverting money meant for foreign studies into buying luxuries including building houses, he said: ”So if there are guidelines for application of monies, anytime we find misapplication or infractions, TETFund will pulse further disbursement and ask the recipient to account for the monies given before, TETFund has done much by producing thousands of P.hd holders including sponsoring so many Industrial Based Researches.

Backing the importance of the workshop, Bakari, said academics were meant to use their knowledge in bridging gaps hindering developmental initiatives as it concerns all strata of the Nigerian society.

He said there are many misconceptions regarding the functions of TETFund, as an intervention agency.

“This workshop is meant to set the tone for paradigm shift, TETFund is now moving towards content based intervention in the area of research and development, for too long we have been emphasizing teaching at the expense of research.

” For long universities have been carrying out research for publication and not for development and now government is investing monies in applied research because research should be problem solving, in other words lecturers should be seen at the forefront in diversifying the economy, making sure that the economy is knowledge based, solving our problems through research not with oil alone, “he stated.

Crucially his task as the director of R & D has greatly helped the performance of  TETfund and boosted the image of the prganization under the watch of Professor Bogoro. Along with other staff, he has been of great value to Bogoro’s work.

Professor Bogoro commissioned the ICT centre on 24th April 2019 at Gombe State University funded with (2013 Special Intervention Fund) and the commissioning of TETfund–funded 2019 Special Intervention High Impact Projects at the University of Port-Harcourt on 30th March 2019 as well as commissioning of University Of Lagos Academic Publishing Centre among others on 30 March, 2019.

There was also the commissioning of Academic Publishing Centre and other completed projects at University of Calabar on 27th and 28th February 2019. Federal University at Gusau Zamfara State is not left out as gigantic and legacy projects were commissioned by Prof. Bogoro and his team from the 23rdto 25th January 2020. In the same vein, on 1st November 2019, commissioning of special intervention and 2013 ICT centre projects were successfully carried out at the University of Jos.  Bogoro and his team also commissioned the special annual intervention projects from 6th to 8th December, 2019.

There was also the iconic commissioning of TETfund projects on 12th December 2019 (TETfund 2014 normal intervention projects) at the Federal University Lokoja. Interestingly, landmark and legendary projects were also commissioned by Bogoro and his team from 26th to 30th November, 2019 at the University of Benin, Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma, Edo State, Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State University Abraka, Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwu and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

In line with global standard and practice, TETfund is now a global brand, and has embraced renewable energy to light up the higher institutions as seen in Bayero University Kano (BUK).  According to Bogoro, “Renewable energy is the major quest for sustainable development in western world today and with this centre now in operation at Bayero University (BUK) Kano, it is expected that Nigeria would seek goal in earnest”.

To him, poor research is responsible for low ranking of Nigerian universities. And he has the task of rewriting the history ’ “All over the world, universities and other higher institutions are positioned to be the bridge between a productive society, knowledge and growth. It is unfortunate that research which remains critical in this respect had been at lower ebb.’

As the tireless professor drives TETFund to the Next Level, we pray that he will continue to move from strength to strength and keep on treading on the right path of President Buhari’s

idris

Ahmed Idris and the Task of Maintaining Delicate Balance in the Disbursement of the Federation Accounts

by with No Comment EconomyMonthly PostPolicy

The sleek figure of Ahmed Idris, the Accountant-General of the Federation, works his way around the crowded, oak-panelled office, in Abuja whenever the federal accounts allocation committee assemble to take decision on the sharing of the federation accounts. He sits down and reasons with MDAs and states to reconcile all payments in transit that has not hit the account yet, and take the net balance. That is fairness.

For Idris, meetings help him reach out and forge a network of support and build transparency. For the other stakeholders, it’s a chance to meet someone many expect to one day move up to higher responsibilties.

Idris has the strengths that so many people in government offices so conspicuously lack, not only critical thinking and complex competence but a grasp of detail. And his speech is a reflection of the depth of commitment, professionalism, faith in human and civilized principles and values. These attributes help him navigate the challenges of managing the federation accounts equitably. He is also concerned with e-governace and Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) operations.

while many public officials have floundered during the coronavirus pandemic, Idris has been a beacon of calm and competence, intervening swiftly on how to spend billions of Naira supporting the different tiers of government so concerned with how to create jobs as the economy went into lockdown free fall. With restrictions lifted and life gradually coming into force in different parts of the country, Idris been part of those putting people minds at rest.

He is a man who believes in transparency And he communicates about it quite effectively in order to promote transparency. Last year December when President Muhammadu Buhari launched the transparency portal. Idris quickly worked out modalities for its workability

He gave a fluent defence of this measures at a media conference early this year.

“Nobody can be open without being transparent. One cannot be transparent without being accountable. In all these the principles of stewardship is entrenched to a very large extent on all workers in the government offices, agencies, ministries, parastatals and so on. These are the stewards. The public has a duty and responsibility to be informed and enlightened about what is going on, particularly where the management of resources or public funds are being spent. That is what the government is trying to do with most of these reform initiatives.

The objective is to be transparent, open, accountable, and to ensure the public is aware of what is going on with funds and resources being managed or kept on their behalf, reminding everyone that this is the treasury of the nation. What this means is that resources come in and out for one programme or another.”

Sometimes ago early this year, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, OAGF, began a comprehensive review of treasury forms and other accounting source documents in use in all ministries, departments and agencies, MDAs, of the Federal Government.

A statement by Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information, Press and Public Relations, noted that the review was in exercise of the mandate of the Accountant General of the Federation under FR.107 (n) to issue officially-approved forms bearing treasury numbers for use in all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ensure uniformity.

It added that already, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Idris, has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee to handle the review of the documents.

Speaking at the inauguration of the committee, Ahmed said the committee was expected to identify all treasury forms and accounting source documents presently in use; come up with new formats in line with the public financial reforms; recommend additions or deletions of the contents; assign relevant number systems to the treasury forms and review the documents in line with GIFMIS (Government Integrated Financial Management Information System) operations.

He stressed that in carrying out the assignment, the committee should be guided by the Federal Governments quest for adoption of e-governance at all levels and the fact that all the public finance reforms initiatives being driven by the Treasury are predicated on full deployment of ICT solutions.

Rationale  for the review of the documents was because the contents of the treasury forms and other accounting source documents in use were no longer relevant and useful to drive the various public finance management reforms of the Federal Government, which are mostly ICT-driven. As a result, a comprehensive review and update of these accounting source documents was thus imperative for an efficient and successful implementation of government’s financial management reforms.

“He reiterated the government’s resolve to ensure a successful review of the documents and charged the committee to give the assignment all amount of seriousness it deserves and deliver on time.”

 

Last December, the Federal Government launched the transparency portal as part of the reforms against corruption. Under this arrangement, ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) were directed to submit daily, monthly, quarterly and annual treasury/financial

Addressing the press some months later, Idris explained that his office had have rolled out a portal to actualize the policy. He added that part of the problem is the sensitization of the public and capacity building for the officials that will handle the system. According to him,this is because the transparency portal is completely new and the operators at the MDAs would require to be trained. That is in the pipeline

Speaking further, he disclosed that the OAGF was giving them a maximum of four months to update their skills. Not only that. It would call the MDAs and sit with them on the portal for them to ask questions on what should be done and the way they should be handling the reporting from their respective MDAs, asserting that the fact that the president launched the

“We ae now trying to upload information to the portal. Some information are historical. They will need to be put in the system. Before that is done, the Financial Officers and those who will be managing the system from the MDAs will need to be trained. The public needs to be sensitized on what they should be expecting. All these are being rolled out now.”

Therefore, the fact that the portal has been launched does not mean that we are 100 per cent available to the public immediately. But, the portal is active. There are some useful information there. Every week one checks the portal, there is always an improvement in terms of what is available and what we were given. That is how we will populate the portal.

Talking about whether all these should not have come before the launching of the portal, what I have to say is that you cannot jump the gun.

“In government, you don’t begin to implement a policy unless there is an approval. Even the treasury single account (TSA), when we started, that was why the government had problems. There was some resistance. But, eventually, we are now there. Likewise the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS). That is why we are having problems. Some are real problems because of resistance. Some because you cannot jump the gun to implement it. A budget cannot be implemented unless the National Assembly passes it and Mr President signs it into law.”

The Accountant-general’s affirmation of its support for transparency around the nation is a clear reflection of the deep strategic awareness of the danger of lack of transparency, which has infested many people in the country.

tony 2

Tony Elumelu: World-Class Banker and Africa region’s firefighter

by with No Comment BankingMonthly Post

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Transcorp Plc Chairman, Tony Elumelu, is a man with great foresight, resolve and compassion.  Welcome to the world of the Lion-king, the world of possibilities, lighted by the philosophy of Africapitalism.

Not every person, or even a nation, is able to stay on course while pursuing his long-term visions for growth, development and prosperity. In times of adversities, many with great vision sometimes digress, trip, falter or fail. Staying on course requires leadership’s foresightedness, resolve, consistency and eagerness to prioritize welfare of the citizenry. There cannot be a better example of this determination in Africa, right now than Elumelu, a business leader who has always delivered values, leading the youth on a path of prosperity.

Through his Tony Elumelu Foundation, (TEF) and Heirs Holdings, he has ensured the consistent funding of close to 10,000 entrepreneurs as well as job creation for millions of youths across all 54 African countries.

Elumelu is an entrepreneur who uses his resources and skills to build and nurture African youth on the path of glorious entrepreneurial journey, thereby building in them a strong psychological frame of minds to face the future. He has been at the forefront of calling on African leaders to build human capacity and competitiveness to further enhance the performance of all sectors. The goal is to ensure high quality life for all citizens through stronger and productivity to raise GDP growth.

Ever since 2010 , he has taken up the challenge of infusing African youth with hope and mentoring entrepreneurs. As a result of these, he has achieved a prominent slot in global recognitions, and has attained unparalleled celebrity position more than any African business man or philanthropist, in recent years, forming a cult-like status in the continent,  revered by youth and respected by political leaders, liberals and conservatives alike.

All these things have today made many  African youth to see a little of this man, the lion-king in themselves on television — three piece-suits, shinning shoes , seemingly meek, but ready to do lead way in the name of development.

A strong endorsement of this track record came recently when it was revealed that Elumelu stands as one of Times 100 Personalities, having achieved a prominent slot in global recognition. He is among three Nigerians named by the Time Magazine International on the 2020 TIME100, the annual roll of HONOUR of the 100 most influential people in the world. The other two Nigerians include Tomi Adeyemi and Tunji Funsho.

Elumelu is acknowledged as one of Africa’s leading investors and philanthropists for his achievements in business, industry and development not only in Nigeria in particular, but also in Africa in general. The list, now in its 17th year, recognises the activism, innovation, and achievement of the world’s most influential individuals in their respective fields of human endeavour.

His efforts has led to the development of a raft of entrepreneurs across Africa and has de-escalated tension across different regions, leading  toward gradually resolving the crises of lack of productivity, unemployment and poverty . This crisis is just one of dozens things Tony has been doing in the continent, assuming the role of the tireless firefighter.

He has developed new strategies to empower young generations with skill-sets and knowledge to fast-track the transition to a digital economy and prepare them for the future economy that will tackle the issues of sustainability and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

He is known as a man of peace and development, the natural youth leader who most African youth look to when they need direction, an advice or an out of the box solution to a regional problem. A veteran banker who never shields away from employing his skills and big influence stature to infuse youth with possibilities, Tony has this gift which only few lead

Where there seems to be no hope, Tony functions as a symbol of hope and power to turn things around, even while operating from a disadvantage. Tony showed the power of working from a disadvantage — the more they underestimate you, the more satisfying the victory. This happened when he took over STB in 1997. He came into the limelight that year when he led a small group of investors to take over a small, floundering commercial bank Standard Trust Bank in Lagos. He turned it profitable within a few years.  And in 2005 he merged it with the United Bank for Africa during the bank consolidation era of the Central Bank of Nigeria, under the watch of Professor Charles Soludo. That banking group now has subsidiaries in 20 African countries and in the U.S and U.K. Elumelu also owns extensive real estate across Nigeria and a minority stake in mobile telecom firm MTN Nigeria, among other assets.

 

He continues to play great roles within the African continent to give hope, and bring calm even during the roughest storms that seem to continuously hit the African region in today’s world. In recent years, Tony has done many marvelous things, putting in commendable efforts across the Africa to activate private sector economic productivity and development in the continent. In  this way, he has been complementing the  effort of government across the Africa towards economic diversification, with each country taking steps to lessen the reliance on oil and mitigate the impact of its chronic volatility on their economies and people.

There is no doubt that human, social and cultural growth go hand in hand with developing and improving financial resources, which Tony has been concerned with. All these have combined to bring him accolades from across the world, including the TIME 100 award.

Elumelu is the Founder and Chairman of Heirs Holdings. His family-owned investment company, committed to improving lives and transforming Africa, through long-term investments in strategic sectors of the African economy, including financial services, hospitality, power, energy and healthcare. He is only one of four Africans on the 2020 list, recognised for his track record of business turnaround and value creation, and economic empowerment of young Africans.

Elumelu is also the Chairman of a pan-African financial services group, the United Bank for Africa (UBA), operating in 20 countries in Africa, the United Kingdom, and France. UBA is reputed to be the only African bank with a commercial deposit taking licence in the United States.The bank provides corporate, commercial, SME and consumer banking services to more than 21 million customers globally.

Elumelu also chairs Nigeria’s largest quoted conglomerate, Transcorp, whose subsidiaries include Transcorp Power, one of the leading generators of electricity in Nigeria and Transcorp Hotels Plc, Nigeria’s foremost hospitality brand.

On the plain of entrepreneurship Elumelu, who is the most prominent champion in Africa, in 2010 created The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), the philanthropy empowering a new generation of African entrepreneurs, catalysing economic growth, driving poverty eradication.

Since its creation, the TEF has ensured the creation of millions of jobs for youths across all 54 African countries, particularly the funding not just under 10,000 entrepreneurs, but a digital ecosystem of over one million as part of its ten year, $100million commitment through the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme.

The Foundation, which is a self-funding institution, has increasingly shared its unique ability to identify, train, mentor and fund young entrepreneurs across Africa, with institutions such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the ICRC and leading European development agencies.

Heirs Holdings, which serves as a corporate role model for African businesses, and the Tony Elumelu Foundation will both celebrate 10 years of impact in November. Their mission continues to be inspired by  which positions the private sector, and most importantly entrepreneurs, as the catalyst for the social and economic development of the continent.

It is Tony’s belief therefore that the development models in African countries should not only focus on raising economic growth levels, but also prioritize education, training, investing in human capital and social development, since human development is the ticket to a more prosperous and secure future.

Given this scenario, it is clear that Africa  must consider creating funding for human capital investments through leveraging commodities revenues. These funds will be allocated to prepare and train the youth, empower them with future-focused skills and learning, build their capacities, and create jobs that enable them to utilize their skills to meet future demands in their countries and help develop new sectors of a future economy – one that is ultimately independent of commodities or oil.

Tony’s  message to everyone is that Africa has no option but to excel and move ahead. Retreat is never an option. This is Africapitalism philosophy in the world of the Lion-king, the world of possibilities. Welcome to that world.

dapo

The Silent Strategy of Dapo Abiodun- Impacting the future of Ogun state to Great Stories of Excellence

by with No Comment GoveranceMonthly Post

Governor Dapo Abiodun came aboard with characteristics of nobility, and is revered at home and recognised abroad for his protean productivity and impeccable business foresight. He has uncanny ability to spot goldmine where many see land mines. He equally understands that politics is a route to service, since leadership is service to society. And his belief that the doctrine of altruism and love must be preached as a counteraction to the doctrine of hate and greed that has overtime become the norm in political circuits powers his conduct in office as governor.

When Prince Dapo Abiodun was sworn-in as Governor of Ogun State on May 29, 2019, he made some solemn pledges in his inauguration speech. In the seventh paragraph of that speech delivered before a crowd at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, he affirms that: “You will always find in me, the conduct of Omoluwabi expected of Omo Teacher. I will govern with character. I will serve you diligently and sincerely. I will make your interests the core of governance. I will neither personalize nor abuse the mandate. I will not betray your trust.”

The above pledge has been consistently demonstrated and fulfilled by the governor in the course of his coming to power. It is rare to see so many politicians come into office with such characteristics of nobility.
On assumption of office, he defied expectation by not sacking workers employed by the previous government, nor abandon the projects being undertaken. Normally, people expected a new governor to follow the ‘established precedent’ of a new governor overturning what his immediate predecessor did. Rather, Prince Dapo Abiodun decided to set-up committees to look into gray areas.

These included last-minute employment and award of contracts, appointments of permanent secretaries and general managers of statutory bodies, last-minute loans and incurred financial obligations, abandoned and on-going projects, crises in tertiary institutions, and many more.

A personal friend of the governor gave a comment on this.  “In fact, those who were very agitated and expectant of drastic, it not vindictive actions, described the governor as ‘slow’, and his government as a ‘government of committees’. Yet, Dapo is trudging on, with the royalty in him taking the lead.

‘Omo Teacher’ decided to regularize and accommodate into the civil service, the over 1,000 workers hurriedly employed by the immediate past administration. He noted that despite flaws noted in the appointments and recruitments, his government has decided to be magnanimous, as a people-centred administration and not be vindictive. type

Despite flaws, he upheld all the appointments of the permanent secretaries made in the twilight of the last administration.

In the last one  and half years, and in spite of the fallouts of the coronavirus pandemic currently ravaging the world, Governor Abiodun has made a startling difference, elevating populations long treated as mere statistics in government circles into active participants in a new, project-driven and progressive era. This is why testimonies across the state continue to show the huge impact he and his stellar cabinet, a welter of distinguished intellectuals and trail blazers, have made in just a short while. Admittedly, though, only a few of the achievements can be mentioned in this piece.

From security to infrastructure, and from agriculture to business, tourism and spirts development, Abiodun has shown what it means to have a proven and time-tested wealth creator and agent of change at the helms of affairs. Governor Abiodun wasted no time in addressing security issues. He bought100 vehicles and 200 motorcycles to arrest security threats in the state after having first provided communications equipment for the security agencies. That was far from fortuitous: as a consultant, he had helped Lagos State conquer cross-border banditry in the 90s.

In the area of infrastructure, the Governor also did very well. No sooner than he was sworn in when he took the gospel of road construction to every nook and cranny of Ogun State, rejecting the window dressing of state capitals that frequently passes for “good performance” in this clime. Suddenly, he began to work in different places , including remote areas, where politicians typically only visit during campaigns. All these areas have now begun to feel government’s presence.

 

xxxxxx The provision of infrastructure is critical for socio-economic development in any nation. Like many states, nations and sub-regions around the world, Ogun State has had its share of infrastructure dearth such that the systems like transportation, housing, environment, education, healthcare, agriculture, power, security and social services, portable water are in dire need of maintenance and upgrade.

On assuming duties as the fifth Executive Governor of Ogun State in 2019, Prince Dapo Abiodun was unhappy with the deplorable condition of amenities within the state: the roads and bridges, school buildings, public hospitals and water plants, etc. He had to figure out ways of bridging the infrastructure gap to accelerate the socio-economic development vision, which was top priority.

With his diverse private sector experience on purposeful governance and robust developmental blueprint summarised as ‘Building our Future Together,’ Prince Abiodun was determined to open up all the nooks and crannies of the state through capital investments in infrastructure.

He facilitated massive road construction and rehabilitation within the 236 wards across the three senatorial districts, such that despite the meagre resources available to the state, over 50 roads have been completed and 19 are in progress within his first year in office.

Some of the road construction works include the Epe-Ijebu Ode and Sagamu-Abeokuta federal roads constructed by past administrations, but recently rehabilitated by the Abiodun administration through Public-Private Partnership. Others are Itoikin-Ibefun-Ijebu Ode, Iperu-Ilisan, Sango-Ojodu Abiodun, Ilaro-Owode, Abeokuta-Sango-Ota-Lagos, Osi-Ota-Awolowo-Navy-Kola and Balogun Kuku in Ijebu Ode. The ongoing works include the reconstruction of Opako Bridge in Adigbe, Abeokuta, several township roads and the abandoned 32-kilometre Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole road.

Furthermore, the creation of Ogun State Public Works Agency (OGPWA) following the passage of the Ogun State Road Maintenance Agency (OGRMA) amendment bill into law has birthed several cost-saving opportunities through the massive construction, rehabilitation and maintenance projects. They have created streams of job opportunities, improved productivity, increased mobility and alleviated poverty within the state.

Noticeably, Abiodun’s view of road infrastructure is holistic and includes boosting agriculture and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) growth. The state government is also giving special attention to infrastructure development in the Agbara-Atan-Ota, Ewekoro-Ifo and Sagamu-Ogijo industrial hubs.

As a means of exploring the state’s proximity to the country’s commercial hub, the visionary governor is also partnering with the Lagos State Government on key joint ventures. This will help to fast track development and spill over of commercial opportunities.

Noteworthy is the fact that the people of Abeokuta North Local Government in particular, are excited by Governor Abiodun’s infrastructural achievements across the length and breadth of the state.

A recent visit to different communities within the local government showed that there has been enormous investment in infrastructure. These include the reconstructed Iberekodo General Hospital internal road, mobilisation of contractors to resume work on the Lafenwa roundabout road and Mokola flyover along Ajitadun-Adatan road, inherited from the previous administration.

To ensure all round security for people, Governor Abiodun established an agency to conduct, audit and provide a roadmap to actualising the “Light Up Ogun” project, with a view  to ensuring that most cities in the state have uninterrupted power supply. The objective is to regenerate the state’s old cities, places like Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu and Ilaro, in a sustainable fashion and without compromising the future.

Another significant project was the revival of operations in the Arakanga water treatment plant which is responsible for supplying portable water to Abeokuta metropolis and its environs. Earlier this year, the governor had visited the comatose water plant and by March, households had started enjoying good water supply.

The governor’s bias for healthcare was evident in the reconstruction the public Primary Health Centre, in Adeun, Abeokuta North Local Government. The facility upgrade included the installation of solar power equipment and fencing.

Since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, the administration has set up a COVID-19 isolation and treatment centre at Iberekodo, carried out an aggressive distribution of palliatives to the youths and vulnerable, and fumigated Lafenwa, Olomore and Iberekodo major markets.

Prince Abiodun’s efforts in providing funds through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers Programme, supply of weed killer, fertilizers and agriculture fields to 3,500 farmers drawn from Abeokuta North Local Government and other LGAs are some of his giant strides in agriculture.

Similarly, the mass recruitment of youths into the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) and vocational trainings for artisans in plumbing, electrical and building works are under the direct labour initiative of the state ministry of housing. Also, several sons and daughters of Abeokuta North Local Government Area have been offered political appointments to the credit of the governor.

The establishment of Oko Owo Dapo and Care for Widows’ schemes have been great sources of empowerment and increased productivity for the beneficiaries. These welfare initiatives have positively impacted and improved the socio-economic activities in the beneficiary communities.

In like manner, the donation and installation of two new distribution transformers to Kemta/Ilugun in Abeokuta North Local government have resuscitated life and commercial activities.

And, fully apprised of the linkage between education and development, he also enacted the novel project of rehabilitating a school per ward in the state. There are 236 wards in Ogun and if every ward had a standard school with state-of-the-art facilities, the governor reasoned, the educational revival of the state would have begun on a sound footing.

The renovation of public classrooms in primary and junior secondary schools in Abeokuta North Local Government by Governor Abiodun’s administration has also been remarkable. The beneficiary schools include ANLG Primary School, Federal Housing, Elega, ANGL Primary School, Ilugun Asalu, Holy Prophet School, Isale-Ogun, OUS Primary School, Ikereku, Owu Methodist Primary School, Oke-Sokori and Moshood Abiola Model School, Adatan.

In addition, textbooks and teaching materials donated to public schools in the all local government areas, as well as the installation of Education Management Information System (EMIS) equipment in the Abeokuta North Local Government Education Authority to aid data collection and analysis. This has also been replicated in other Local Government Education Authorities within the state.

Over this feat, the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) commended him for what it called his administration’s remarkable achievements in the education sector within the last one year in office. The students’ body described governor as the most student friendly governor in the history of the state.

According to NAOSS, Governor Abiodun’s sincerity of purpose and sheer determination have changed the fortunes of the education sector for good.The Association attributed the unprecedented development in primary, secondary and tertiary levels of education to the commitment of the governor to restore the lost glory of education in the State.

The body lamented what it regarded as the negligence of education sector by the immediate past administrations in the state, claiming that “but for timely intervention of Governor Abiodun in the crises that bedeviled all the three levels of education in the State, the sector would have completely collapsed.

“We commend the courage, resilience and doggedness of Governor Dapo Abiodun in reviving the education sector of the State.” Says the students leader, Comrade Ogunrounmbi.

He added that, “One of the most remarkable achievements of Governor Abiodun is the rehabilitation of 236 primary schools across all the wards in the state.

“Besides these numerous achievements in the education sector, all other sectors of the State have also witnessed unprecedented development.”

NAOSS congratulated the Governor for achieving all the feats within a short period of one year and urged him not to relent in his effort to take the state to an enviable height.

He set up visitation panels to troubled higher institutions in the state and addressed the contending issues with dispatch. Since assuming office, Governor Abiodun has attended convocation ceremonies in all tertiary institutions in the state, interfacing with their management both formally and informally and seeking ways to make them deliver on their core mandates in research and innovation. He has given the best students in those institutions get automatic employment, to reward academic excellence and gradually build a civil service boasting the best materials. In any case, one of the first things he did upon being sworn-in as governor was to abolish the N3,700 educational levy imposed by his predecessor. The result? School enrollment exploded as parents heaved a sigh of relief.

In all that he has done in the past one year, Governor Abiodun has made the people’s comfort his mission. He has served and protected Ogun people, including from the ravaging impact of the coronavirus pandemic, about which the Federal Government recently gave a great testimony. He had set up five isolation centres, increased contact tracing, and set up testing labs. It was through his efforts that Nigeria’s index case was traced and quarantined. Returnees from Cote d’ Ivoire who could have transmitted the virus in Ogun were intercepted and the Osun State government alerted. For Abiodun, it’s been hard work all through, but the results have justified the labours.

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Building Trust & Re-affirming Faith in Nigerian Security System and our Humanity The NSCDC under the Watch of Ibrahim Gana Muhammadu

by with No Comment Monthly PostSecurity

Alhaji Ibrahim Gana Muhammadu, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) can be described  a “great Nigerian” who believes in God, hard work, courtesy, service to community, and creativity. Being  a long-standing epitome of tolerance, peace  and creativity, he has been working on taking the corps to the next level since his assumption of office in 2015.

The Civil Defence is a para-military agency of rhe Federal Government under the Ministry of Internal Affairs mandated the Act of Parliament of 2003 as amended in 2007 with specific functions to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, register, train ,license and monitor private security guard companies in Nigeria, efficiently carry out disaster management through search and rescue, rehabilitation and mitigation among others.

And with growing security challenges, the corps involves in election assignments, help out in  monitoring examinations across the country. And where there security disturbances at the local level, the corps also helps calm the waters. Doing all these things have portrayed the corps as an agency that will help Nigeria achieve its future aspirations for a robust, thriving and sustainable economy.

These done, C-G Muhammadu  has also been  improving the relationship between the NSCDC and members of the public, building mutual confidence and putting the country’s security on a safer track.  He is keen to ensure that the NSCDC provide the highest levels of community happiness through providing the most innovative smart security services to the nation and members of the public. And true to his words, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps has been an example of relentless progress and the bedrock of trust in security and stability in the country.

Naturally, all human are into the aim of thriving our lives and security helps community live in peace as people want to have flourishing businesses and fulfilling lives, to nurture what is the best within themselves and improve their life experience. Creating assurance for people, civil Defence brings to our lives enormous benefits and that is what makes this security outfit as of pride and trust within the national security architecture. It is arguably the most trusted security outfit of government, with very disciplined and responsible officers, mostly credited with compassion. This has been the Nigerian Civil defence under C-G Muhammdu.

Appointed in July 2015 by President Muhammadu Buhari, Gana Muhammadu  embarked on agenda setting aimed at repositioning and re-defining the mandate of the corps in line with global best practices. His successes in NSCDC can be attributed to hard work and dedication to building symbiotic relationships which includes adding value to people, having the habit of giving and also working and partnering with the right people. Apart from these, his upbringing also plays a role in life and work.

Raised to be a God-fearing  family in a community of decent human beings, he has been taught early in life to believe in himself and value patience, which is why he is always grateful for all the experiences has had; the pleasant ones and the challenging ones, and all the people who have made an impact on him.

When you hear your parents talk about their values so often and you see them live those values, you tend to grow up internalizing those values as well. In his family, principles of forthrightness and fortitude were highly treasured. When he deals with colleagues and surbodinates, these ideals become quite useful, and every day he sees the results in the deep and long-term relationships he is able to build with partners and stakeholders.

Thus he focuses efforts on building the future of  NSCDC  based on a forward-looking vision that adopts global trends and developments, recruits  the brightest young minds  and supports officers,  encourages new innovations and creative ideas, and embraces advanced technologies to deploy security solutions to the nation. With these, NSCDC is fast becoming a defender of choice to the people.

In this context, it is important to look at the roles of the corps within the political-economy of Nigeria, especially when it relates to oil, emergency rescue and disaster mitigation. Refer to the fact that since oil is the backbone of the Nigerian economy, the NSCDC has the mandate of securing critical infrastructure. And it has been maintaining its leading role in the protection of oil pipelines and other critical oil assets across Nigeria with much integrity. And it has made significant progress in this area by reducing to the barest minimum incidences of pipeline vandalization and oil theft. Thus it is contributing a higher added value to the economy.

Another area of contributions of the NSCDC is in the area of building trust  and relationship with the civil populace.  The relationship between security agencies and the public has often been mired in crisis for much of the time. This is because many decision-makers  at the helm of affairs in the country security services believe that  building mutual confidence and putting relations with the public on  track will be a challenging long-term endeavour.

Communication with public seems to inch close to routine, deepening trust and making it more easy to reduce tensions and avoid miscalculation. The current state of affairs does serve the strategic interests of NSCDC and the country, and it puts national security  on a better footing.

This particular strategy has improved public perception of  the NSCDC under the watch of CG Muahammadu. Consequently, the significance of NSCDC in society has gathered more traction. And it is profoundly important to acknowledge, recognize and appreciate the roles of the civil Defence officers in helping to maintain peace and curtail sundry crimes such as rape, election violence and pipeline vandalism across the country.  As part of the security architecture of government, they help maintain law and order as well as promote the rule of law in security matters and enable justice to prevail. Their roles are significant and highly appreciated particularly in this era characterized by ethnic tension and large movements of people from one jurisdiction to another for various reasons.

Its officers are highly civil. Despite the fact that these officers deal with a wide range of, often complex and substantial issues, even outside tackling security problems, such as providing rescue  during emergencies. they display a high level of intellect, including honed emotional intelligence and the ability to master and deal with complex issues quickly. What matters most to them is fairness and justice. The public mood, political correctness and bias do not influence their decisions. They ensure that their decisions on the balance of probabilities are fair, sustainable and free from errors. They effectively approach their work with an open mind. When  they apprehend offenders, they scrutinize matters and evidences with a wider lens. And more importantly, they put service to the nation above self.

The recently concluded election in Edo state is a pointer to this. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), had before that election disclosed that it deployed 13, 311 personnel and 60 sniffer dogs ahead of the Edo State governorship election to check electoral violence and ensure the safety of voters.

Commandant –General  Muhammadu, said the personnel were trained on COVID-19 pandemic safety guidelines for the election and to ensure that all electoral malpractices, violence, hooliganism and other vices that could affect the smooth conduct of the election were effectively checkmated.

He stated this during a meeting with chairmen of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Abuja. Muhammadu said the agency would ensure that its personnel were well trained before being deployed to provide security anywhere in the country.

A statement issued by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the agency, Emmanuel Okeh, noted that the 13,311 personnel deployed to Edo State were drawn from the headquarters and neighbouring states of Kogi, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta and Ondo to complement officers of Edo the State and Zonal Command in Benin

Despite the tumultuous episodes and frantic permutations preceding the Edo State governorship election, both the conduct and outcome of that election was not surprising to peace-loving Nigerians. Given the resources and goodwill expended, the election reflected some modest credibility and the peace, which well-meaning Nigerians didn’t anticipate.

Thanks to the forceful measures taken to ensure peace, the September 14 election experienced relative calm. Graciously, contrary to the initial expectations of many watchers of the event, the security agencies, especially NSCDC personified in Gana himself, did not succumb to the parochialism and corruption. At least to the average man on the street, the expected deployment of ‘‘federal might’’ to determine the outcome of the election was virtually absent. This too wasn’t expected.

The lesson expressed here is that when people are assured of safety and protection from harassment during elections, the electorate would  not fear to exercise their franchise. NSCDC members, as a result of their institutional culture on their own disregard the overtures of selfish and non-performing politicians and comport themselves with civility during elections. What is further revealed is the level to which misguided leadership has affected Nigerians. For a long time, critical political watchers have described elections in Nigeria as a hopeless situation, a travesty of democracy and a threat to the principles of good governance.  But with performance of institution like the NSCDC that perception is changing.

Salute to  CG Muhammadu, the management team  and  leaders of the NSCDC. The deep-rooted and benevolent values that are embedded in the structure of the organization have created a strong perception of trust for it, allowing members of the public to feel secure with the presence of its personnel.

 The leadership of the NSCDC is guided by a high degree of professionalism, mutual respect, efficiency and empathy, which should be a benchmark for all security agencies to emulate and follow all over. Whatever the crisis, the NSCDC personnel have always stepped forward to provide help and solace to those in distress. In this way, this security institution is helping the  government has put good governance into place and has left no stone unturned in improving the lives of the residents.

Nigerians are extremely helpful, humble and welcome people openly. Their hospitality is amazing, and this is due to the strong virtues they carry wherever they go. With a discipline institution like the NSCDC in place to assure security in a friendly atmosphere, people are happy and truly proud to move freely in this amazing country, and warmly cherish the experiences  they have with members of the civil defence..

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AFRICA ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION ERA

by with No Comment EconomyMonthly Post

The most urgent things for African Leaders to do now are economic diversification away from commodities as well as build vibrant, competitive human resources. Some countries are making effort to do something. Despite these efforts, data from international organizations such as the World Bank indicate that the regional economy is still significantly driven by commodities revenue.

However, this is not necessarily a deterrent to economic growth. For years to come, the economic outlook indicates that commodities and oil will continue to serve as the backbone of the African region’s economy and remain the mainstay of all development across countries in Africa if urgent steps are not taken. This means they must do things on the path of research and development (R & D) innovation and capacity building. They must do thing that focuses on new economic sectors to exploit the unique advantages of each country. Considered a safe haven for economic stability, these new sectors prioritize investing in human capital as the winning formula for the future economy.

Given the close connection that the countries of Africa share with commodities – one that goes beyond the economic diversification plans of these countries – the volatility of commodity prices defines growth, slow-down or decline levels in these countries. This is acknowledged in the World Bank’s Reports for some years now.

In this context, the pertinent question is – how does Africa build strong foundations for economic sustainability away from commodities fluctuations in the medium and long term? Also, how can it enhance the connection between human capital and growth in all the 54 countries?

While governments across the region have introduced reforms to improve the business environment, there has not been enough concern, with infusing the youth with confidence, skill-sets, and facilitating entrepreneurship, to help young entrepreneurs in achieving their objectives and create new investment opportunities in promising sectors.

Policy adviser must encourage Government to embark on these things. Doing so will help push Africa up in order to achieve sustainable economic growth. Of course, his belief is that African governments must continue their fiscal consolidation efforts, diversify economic activities, create jobs in the private sector specifically tailored for women and the youth, and perhaps most importantly, accelerate investment in human capital through stimulating current government strategies to improve health and education outcomes. Authorities must also develop new strategies to empower young generations with skill-sets and knowledge to fast-track the transition to a digital economy and prepare them for the future economy that will be largely based on AI, big data and innovation.

After all, nations that have significantly invested in their people by way of education, human development and youth empowerment have leapfrogged their way to advancement.

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SMEs and CBN Economic Stimulus Funds

by with No Comment EditorialMonthly Post

THE N200 billion relief support for small medium enterprises (SMEs) and other small businesses in the country from  Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal  Government comes with  too stringent procedures. These prevent too many SMS owners from accessing the fund.
Priority one on the NIRSAL Microfinance bank’s requirement is for those  SMEs intending to apply for loan to provide a certificate of completion of  Entrepreneurship before they could be considered at all. But we think financial literacy course, at no too much cost to those applying for the loan is necessary as well.

Many Nigeria SMEs are struggling in the area of financial literacy. Financial literacy is the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing.The lack of these skills is called financial illiteracy.

Central Bank of Nigeria  should know this was affecting the country’s ability to create or grow SMEs. Most banks look at the SMEs track record, which points back to financial literacy, before approving a loan request.

The crutch of financial literacy is about creating wealth and have a series of income making assets so if one breaks down, there are still other generating income.Financial literacy is not really about the power of money but having a sound mind that will help people know how to use money and channel it to work rather.
With financial literacy and a good cash flow, it enables people to make good decisions, have good homes and good standards of living and bring the country up the poverty line.

Financial literacy is important because it equips us with the knowledge and skills we need to manage money effectively. Without it, our financial decisions and the actions we take — or don’t take — lack a solid foundation for success.
Nearly half of the working Nigerians don’t expect to have enough money to retire comfortably and that is the reality.

Most households in the country appear to be generally better at managing immediate and shorter-term financial activities but are less competent at managing longer term financial activities (including activities which require forward planning) and more complex financial activities, including those which require engagement with the formal financial system.

According to our findings, many Nigerians obtain credit from unlicensed moneylenders and loan sharks. Though there are no official statistics available, it is estimated that Nigerias unregulated lending sector may range from approximately 50 to around 280 registered businesses that offer short-term (pay-day) loans to government employees and to some private sector employees.That is not even taking into account all the non-registered businesses offering the same services.

Improved financial literacy can increase economic participation and social inclusion, drive competition and market efficiency in the financial services sector, and potentially reduce regulatory intervention.The push for financial inclusiveness is achieving considerable success, but greater understanding of money and savings is needed. This is where CBN should focus more.
Saving money is incredibly important. It gives you peace of mind, expands your options for decisions that have a major effect on your quality of life, and eventually gives you the option to retire. Most people who are wealthy got there through a combination of their own hard work and smart savings and investment decisions.
Only financial education will make a big impact on the SME ecosystem and  our community.

Prof.-Umar-Garba-Danbatta

NCC Remits ₦344.71bn into Consolidated Revenue Fund in 5 years

by with No Comment GoveranceNews

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says it remitted N344.71 billion into the Federal Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) in the last five years.

NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Danbatta said this, when the House of Representatives Committee on Telecommunications, led by its Chairman, Mr Akeem Adeyemi, paid him a legislative oversight visit in Abuja.

Dr Ikechukwu Adinde, NCC Director, Public Affairs said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Adinde said that Danbatta attributed the successes of the commission in the last five years to its harmonious relationship with the National Assembly.

He said that the telecommunications sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased from 8.5 %in 2015 to 14.30% in the second quarter of 2020.

”Through the support of the lawmakers, especially the Committee on Telecommunications, which the NCC leadership has worked with in the last five years, the commission has been able to generate and remit N344.71 billion into federal government’s CRF.

“The remittance is from spectrum fees and operating surplus.

“In financial value, the 14.30 % translates to N2.272 trillion in Q2.

The telecoms investment grew from around 38 billion dollars in 2015 to over 70 billion dollars currently,” he said.

Danbatta said that the NCC has also helped promote financial inclusion by encouraging Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), to actively participate in providing financial services towards actualising federal government’s 80 % financial inclusion target by 2020.

“Through collaborative efforts with critical stakeholders like the National Assembly, the NCC has been able to increase broadband penetration from 6 % in 2015 to 45.43 % as of September, 2020.

“Basic active internet subscription grew from 90 million to 143.7 million.

”Between 2015 and September, 2020, active voice subscription has increased from 151 million to 205.25 million with a teledensity standing at 107.53 %,as at the end of September, 2020.

“We are also empowering and protecting the consumers and ensuring we are able to sanitise the industry of improperly-registered Subscriber identification Module (SIM) cards through our impartial regulatory approach,” he said.

Earlier, Adeyemi, said the over sight visit was in line with relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which empowered the House to carry out its role of checks and balances on the executive.

He commended the leadership of the NCC for its transparency in ensuring remittances to CRF, considering the current revenue drive of the government.

Adeyemi urged the NCC to sustain its current template of ensuring effective regulation of the telecommunications sector, in a manner that would be more mutually beneficial to the industry players, the consumers and the government.

FirstBank-Logo

FirstBank: When a Bank Puts SMEs First

by with No Comment BankingNews

Last week will go down as one of the most challenging weeks, if not the most challenging, Nigeria has faced in 2020. What started out weeks before as very well-organised peaceful protests by young Nigerians campaigning to #EndSARS, was supplanted by hoodlums engaging in wanton looting, arson and destruction of public and private properties across many states at an unprecedented scale.

By the end of the week, many lives had been lost, many properties and businesses completely destroyed and Nigeria has been left reeling from a shock that dwarfs any the country felt even at the peak of the COVID-19 outbreak.

In keeping with the Nigerian spirit of being one’s brother’s keeper, equally unprecedented efforts by individuals, groups and corporate organisations to try to provide assistance for people and businesses affected by the crises of the past week, have followed.

Individuals and groups have announced donations of cash and materials, set up helplines to offer psychological counselling and support, and started online crowd-funding efforts in support of victims.

Among corporate organisations, we have seen banks take a leading role. Some banks, such as Access Bank and Stanbic IBTC, have announced funds or desks they have set up to receive requests from, and process assistance for, affected individuals and businesses.

One of these banks’ efforts include pledged interest-free loans and grants that affected businesses and individuals can access.

Another bank has seen thousands of requests for assistance pour in through the online channel it set up for the purpose. The requests have flowed in, not only because of the victims’ desperation for help, but also because of the humane approach to banking that this institution adopts.

Always putting the customer at the heart of its business, FirstBank has been showing empathy with all those who have experienced one loss or the other as a result of the crises. Since last week, the bank has been seeking every opportunity to identify with people who are currently grieving and hurting.

Although the largest and most prominent member of Nigeria’s leading financial powerhouse, the FBNHoldings Group that is a one-stop shop for financial services ranging from commercial and investment banking to financial advisory, insurance brokerage and pensions custodianship, FirstBank is neither immune nor removed from the challenges people face.

It is a human institution with thousands of humans working as employees to provide bespoke banking products and services to millions of other humans whose pulse the bank feels through its employees.

Being part of a group with expertise across the broad spectrum of financial services, makes FirstBank the banking partner with the broadest shoulders to assist SMEs buffeted by the wave of violence witnessed across the nation last week.

Given the interconnectivity between Nigeria and FirstBank’s history, it is no surprise that a tumultuous week in Nigeria is giving way to one with stories of hope and optimism by Nigerians badly affected by the crises of the past week, who are looking to FirstBank for assistance.

These Nigerians have been encouraged by the strides FirstBank has made over the years in the SME space as the bank of first choice for small businesses.

Built around seven strategic pillars – of connect to infrastructure, connect to talent, capacity building, policy and regulation, connect to resources, connect to market as well as connect to finance – considered essential for the sustainability and growth of SMEs and intended to promote a healthy business interaction and adaptability of the SMEs with their immediate environment, FirstBank’s involvement with SMEs, through SMEConnect (the bank’s branded bouquet of empowerment initiatives, products and services tailor-made for SMEs), has been one that has sought to facilitate their growth into future economic powerhouses playing ever-increasing roles in Nigeria’s economic development.

Since its maiden SME National Conference in 2014, FirstBank has annually engaged small businesses and SME owners in series of empowerment seminars and workshops designed to improve their business capacity.

Only this year, FirstBank held its inaugural SME Business Clinic in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja with many SMEs in attendance.

The SME Business Clinic featured Abayomi Adewumi, CEO of the Global Leadership Institute and an industry expert and business growth consultant with vast experience working with SMEs.

He engaged participants on the FirstBank SME diagnostic tool designed for SMEs to check the health of their business, better understand it and drive profitability.

In 2019, FirstBank organised a weeklong SME event which had owners of SMEs in different sectors mentored across multiple states in the country. It was the first of its kind in the industry.

Organised in partnership with SME Traction, a leading business coaching platform, it was aimed at empowering SMEs to make informed choices about their businesses, thereby facilitating growth and bolstering their contribution to the development of the economy.

At the event, FirstBank’s Deputy Managing Director, Gbenga Shobo, underlined the importance the bank attaches to SMEs.

He said: “At FirstBank, we recognise the impact SMEs have in promoting growth of the economy and are excited at the opportunity to continue to enable them prosper by strategically contributing to the sustainability of their business.

“We remain the trusted financial partner of SMEs and reiterate our resolve to be known as the brand that enables their success; much the same way that we have for over 125 years enabled Nigerians and the economy at large.”

This same point was elaborated at another FirstBank SME event, “Food Souk”, convened in 2019 in partnership with Eventful Limited, an events management firm, where the bank restated its commitment to the Federal Government’s diversification drive, promising to continue to support the agricultural value chain from production to consumption to create opportunities for SMEs in the food sector so they could in turn create job opportunities.

The bank also extended its hand of partnership to all small businesses involved in organising different trade fairs and exhibitions.

A food vendor at the event, Ms Ijeoma Ebeneme, the Chief Executive Officer, JEM N Iris, commended FirstBank for putting the event together. Ebeneme said she was at the food fair to make profit, meet new clients as well as create the needed publicity for her brand.

It is for people like Ebeneme that FirstBank maintains an SME website with rich resources to help SMEs build capacity and improve how they run their business.

On the website is a blog featuring business articles and tips, SME business toolkit, SME products, Microsoft 365 Business Basic and a whole lot more.

In support of owners of SMEs operating in the education sector, FirstBank, in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), set up a matching fund scheme of ₦5 billion LSETF-FirstEdu Loan.

Officially launched in September by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Dr Adesola Adeduntan, Managing Director/CEO of FirstBank, the scheme aims to cushion the impact of Covid-19 pandemic on low-cost private schools by ensuring lending at an attractive interest rate.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Adeduntan said: “At FirstBank we recognise the indelible role played by the education sector in the growth of any economy and this underscores our partnership with Lagos State Government for continuous development of the education services in Lagos State and the nation as a whole.

“The commitment by the Lagos State Government – including this partnership – to enable schools is quite commendable as this will mitigate the challenges caused by the lockdown on the education sector following the COVID-19 pandemic.”

It is for efforts like all those highlighted above and many more that the 2019 edition of KPMG’s Annual Banking Industry customer Satisfaction Survey named FirstBank as the biggest mover in the SME space.

The 2014 edition of the Survey had named the bank as the most popular bank among MSMEs for both deposit transactions and credit/loan facilities with 26 per cent of the SMEs surveyed identifying the bank as one where they had an ongoing loan facility or had obtained one in the recent past.

It is also for the same reason that the unfortunate events of the last week have reignited the bond between Nigerians and FirstBank, a partner that they can bank on in times of need.

The bank’s track record leaves no one in any doubt of its unwavering commitment to continue to weather all storms with Nigeria and Nigerian SMEs with whom it shares a common destiny. [BusinessDay]

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Fidelity CEO Reaffirms Commitment To Sound Ethical Business Practices

by with No Comment BankingNews

Fidelity Bank CEO, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo has restated the bank’s commitment to the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in its dealings with customers and all stakeholders. Okonkwo gave the assurance on Monday as part of activities marking the 2020 Corporate Compliance & Ethics Week.

Stating that the week-long celebration provided a great opportunity to beam the spotlight on compliance and ethics, he said it was important to however institutionalize the culture of compliance and ethics as an imperative for building a strong and enduring financial institution.

“Let us all be reminded in all our dealings that we need to coexist and prosper together with all stakeholders including customers, suppliers, partners, local communities, and employees who are integral to our survival as a business. “‘Doing the right things, the right way’, is the best approach to building a sustainable business”, Okonkwo explained.

Whilst reiterating that Fidelity Bank has kept ethics and professional integrity at the forefront of its business in the over 3 decades of existence, he emphasized that bank would continue to utilize digital technologies to deliver innovative financial services that meet with the needs of customers.

Commencing on November 2, 2020 and running up until Friday, November 6, 2020 the bank has organized a series of employee engagement initiatives as part of the annual activities to celebrate the week.

Corporate Compliance and Ethics Week is organized annually by the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE) provides organizations and employees with the opportunity to educate and drum attention to the twin issues