Feature/OPED
2023 and Voting in Anger Quagmire
By Jerome-Mario Chijioke Utomi
When millions of people are cheated for too long, restitution becomes not just a costly process but substantial in financial and human terms; inferior education, poor housing, unemployment, and poor healthcare facilities-Martin Luther King Jr.
It is not only a barefaced truth that Nigeria’s youngest citizens have crawled out of their shells to make a demand that their elected government treat them with dignity and protect their constitutional rights and democratic freedoms.
Rather, what is in some ways newsy and apparent is that the youths grouse against the ruling party enjoy the support of well-meaning Nigerians of diverse backgrounds, professions, religions and tribes.
It was a similar feeling that partially explains the recent admonition by Babatunde Fashola, Minister of Works and Housing, during the sixth edition of the annual ‘BRF GABFEST’, held recently in Lagos and had as its theme, ‘What Am I Voting For?’, to advise Nigerians to vote in the 2023 polls based on track record and resist voting in anger.
‘Emotions should not be the primary drive for making choices of quality leaders who will address the challenges of the country. We might wonder how to get candidates to address these issues. One way is to look at what their manifestos present and what their political parties profess. The other way is to attend rallies they organize. I urge you to vote by holding debates and town halls where you put questions to the candidates to test their abilities.
“I urge you to vote by looking at what the candidates have done before, this is like asking for the referees during an interview or talking to a previous employer. This is how to recruit an employee. Not by anger.”
Indeed, the insight given by the Minister remains credible and should be encouraged.
But beyond this peripheral consideration, there exist torrents of reasons why many young Nigerians who were not of age in 2015 will get the chance to vote for the first time, and those who voted last time out will want to activate their dreams in another call for change; this time for the better.
Aside from the fact that the new orientation would be shaped by recent fiscal, sociological, political and communal happenings in the country; coupled with the pockets of ethnoreligious upheavals and misgivings from one region against another or powerful personalities against each other, the present movement and ‘youth’s revolt’ is majorly a fight against deformed leadership, resource mismanagement and perennial egotism, and fired by the reality that the oppressed cannot remain oppressed forever. After about eight years of unfulfilled change, the electorate should be excused if they enter 2019 with a new dream on their minds, and head to the polls with a different mentality from what they had in 2015 and 2019 respectively.
There are countless examples of how government daily disconnects from the people, but perhaps, understandably the first one that comes to mind is their inability to recognize that public order, personal and national security, economic and social programmes and prosperity are not the natural order of things but depends on the ceaseless efforts and attentions from an honest and effective government that the people elect.
This piece is not alone in this line of belief.
In 2018, for instance, former President Obasanjo in his personal but open letter to President Muhammadu complained about ‘lice of poor performance in government- poverty, insecurity, poor economic management, nepotism, gross dereliction of duty, condonation of misdeed-if not outright encouragement of it, lack of progress and hope for the future, lack of national cohesion and poor management of internal political dynamics and widening inequality’’
Today, such fears expressed by the Obasanjo cannot be described as unfounded.
On the issue of petrol pump price and electricity tariff hike, I recall now with nostalgia that one of the popular demands during the fuel subsidy removal protest in January 2012, under President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s administration, was that the federal government should take measures to strengthen corporate governance in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, as well as in the oil and gas sector as a whole. This is because of the belief that weak structures made it possible for endemic corruption in the management of both the downstream and upstream sectors of the oil and gas industry.
Eight years after such demand was made and Jonathan has gone, the three government-owned refineries in the country have not been able to function at full capacity as promised by the present administration for a myriad of reasons that revolve around corruption.
Today, if there is anything that Nigerians wish that the FG should accomplish quickly, it is getting the refineries to function optimally as well as make the NNPC more accountable to the people. What happened under president Jonathan has become a child’s play when compared with the present happenings in Nigeria’s oil/gas and electricity sectors.
Under this condition, the question may be asked; why won’t the youth revolt that Nigeria at independence was tipped by Global economic experts, following a study of its strides, to emerge as the most successful black nation because of its purpose-driven population and with an unbridled hunger to succeed, but today, contrary to that prediction, crawl at the base of the world’s economic pyramid? Why won’t the youths protest in a country that was in the 1960s/70 laced with splendid agriculture, immense natural resources, a fantastic GDR, a strong infrastructure, world-class universities, an awe-inspiring telecommunication system, a foremost and far-reaching television station, an excellent sport, a vibrant and formidable military, but today, ranks as the world poverty capital stripped of infrastructures? Why can’t the masses revolt in a country that has so many outstanding people in all fields of scholarship, but has for yet-to-be-identified reasons allowed the high standards the British left them to be lowered?
This development becomes even more painful when one remembers that presently in the country, going by the national bureau of statistics reports, 27.1 per cent of the nation’s workforce is unemployed, 40.8 per cent of young people aged 15-24 and 30.8 per cent of 25-34 years are out of work.
If Nigeria’s unemployed youth were its own country, says a report, it would be larger than Tunisia or Belgium.
Looking at this legion of challenges, one thing stands out. This piece is of the view that there is something fundamentally wrong with a society that does not give opportunities to its young people even when it is globally noted that youths have in the past rescued societies.
However, from what the youths are saying, it appears they have suddenly realized that the Constitution gave sovereignty to the people. That every citizen is expected to hold government stakeholders to account for the use of the resources entrusted to their care. They have remembered that the outlook is bleak and have decided to use their innovative prowess to change the narrative. Particularly as ‘the failure of the government to improve economic conditions and expand opportunities for its youngest citizens has been worsened by President Muhammadu Buhari who has presided over two recessions.
Indeed, while it is relevant for all to take hope in the youths’ capacity to enthrone a nation where we can coexist harmoniously irrespective of tribe or ethnical inclination and truly establish the egalitarian society that we have been deprived of, our leaders must not fail to remember that what the youths currently demand is good governance, and someone to nurture their potential for innovation, creativity, and self-confidence in leadership. Leaders must also recognize that ‘those who lead from the top of the pyramid end up leading only those on top, which is not how development exercise should be carried out’.
To win, therefore, the youth must be guided by the time-honoured saying that courage faces fear and masters it while cowardice represses fear and is thereby mastered by it. Courageous men never lose their zest for living even though their life situation is restless, but cowardly men overwhelmed by the uncertainties of life, lose the will to live’. This is not the time to show apathy or complacency but a period to work passionately and indefatigably to right the wrong.
Utomi Jerome-Mario is the Programme Coordinator (Media and Public Policy), Social and Economic Justice Advocacy (SEJA), a Lagos-based Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and can be reached via [email protected]/08032725374
Ever wondered where to find trendy fashion, cutting-edge tech, or stylish home decor at unbeatable prices? Look no further than Temu.
What is Temu?
Temu, an online marketplace sensation, has taken the world by storm with its vast array of products, competitive prices, and user-friendly platform.
Since its 2022 launch, it has quickly become a global sensation, boasting hundreds of millions of downloads and catering to over 80 markets. Now, Nigerian shoppers can experience the Temu magic firsthand.
This guide will walk you through the Temu shopping experience, ensuring a smooth journey from product discovery to delivery.
Step 1: CREATE AN ACCOUNT TO UNLOCK SMART SHOPPING
The registration process
Joining Temu is super easy! Whether you prefer the traditional approach or the convenience of social media, Temu has you covered. For the classic signup, simply visit temu.com or download the mobile app, enter your email or phone number, create a strong password, and confirm your details. It’s as easy as that!
For social media savvy, link your Google, Apple, or Facebook account and skip the hassle of creating a new login. With Temu’s streamlined process, you can spend less time logging in and more time exploring the incredible deals awaiting you.
Mobile app vs. desktop: Which platform offers the best shopping experience?
Both the mobile app and desktop website offer a seamless shopping experience. However, for a truly dynamic and interactive shopping journey, we recommend the mobile app. You will enjoy real-time price alerts, exclusive mobile deals, and easy order tracking.
For a more deliberate shopping experience, the desktop website is the perfect choice. With larger screens and easy-to-use comparison features, you can take your time and make informed decisions.
Step 2: BROWSING AND SHOPPING LIKE A PRO
Navigating Temu’s vast selection
Temu offers a vast selection of over 200 product categories, from fashion and tech to home goods and beauty.
To get started, simply use the search bar function to find specific items or explore categories, and refine your search with filters for price, colour, size, and more. Sort items by relevance, price, or newest arrivals to find the perfect products.
Temu’s ranking system highlights popular and trusted products, often based on customer reviews and sales trends. To make informed choices, compare prices, features, and reviews before purchasing.
Best-selling products
Temu’s best-selling products are constantly updated based on real-time sales data.
Other metrics beyond rankings
Temu goes beyond traditional product rankings, focusing on the performance and quality of its providers. By considering factors like historic ratings, repurchase records, follower numbers, and new product releases, consumers can make informed decisions. This approach not only empowers buyers but also incentivises providers to deliver high-quality, diverse products and build strong customer relationships.
Providers can earn recognition directly on their product pages by ranking highly in categories like Top Sales, Top Rated, Top Repurchased, Top Followed, or New Arrival. These rankings are based on the provider’s performance over the past 30 days and are updated daily to ensure the most current information is displayed to consumers.
Finding your perfect fit
Temu provides detailed size guides to help shoppers find the perfect fit, particularly for clothing and accessories. These guides often include measurements, comparison charts, and sometimes even virtual fitting tools to make your online shopping experience seamless.
Save more, shop smart
Simplify your shopping and maximise your savings with Temu. All discounts are displayed directly on product pages. For the best deals, explore the platform’s Lightning Deals. To ensure satisfaction, pay attention to details, read descriptions, verify measurements, understand features, and consult seller ratings and reviews.
Step 3: PLACING AN ORDER
Shopping safely and securely
Temu offers a variety of payment methods, including popular credit cards and digital wallets like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro, Discover, JCB and Diners Club. To prioritise your security, the platform employs advanced security measures, adhering to strict industry standards to protect your information.
Step 4: FAST AND RELIABLE DELIVERY
Hassle-free delivery, every time
Temu prioritises customer satisfaction by providing real-time order tracking and reliable shipping options, including free standard shipping and express delivery. The platform guarantees on-time delivery and offers full refunds for damaged or undelivered orders.
At the moment, Temu is in partnership with local logistics firms, such as Flyt Express, SKYNET, and Speedaf to make delivery to Nigerian shoppers on time.
Step 5: AFTER-SALES SERVICE – BEYOND THE PURCHASE
Returns and exchanges made easy
Temu provides a seamless return process with its Purchase Protection Program. If you’re unsatisfied with a purchase, log into your account, select the item, provide a reason, and submit a return request. Temu will provide a prepaid shipping label.
You have a 90-day return window for most items. Once processed, you can choose a refund to Temu credit or original payment. For exchanges, return the item and place a new order. Temu also offers refund policies for no updates and no deliveries. Check Temu’s specific return policy for the latest information.
Beyond shopping: A greener future
Temu is committed to sustainability. By shopping on Temu, you contribute to a greener future. The platform’s Tree Planting Program and combined shipping initiatives help reduce environmental impact.
Smart shopping simplified
Temu has transformed online shopping, offering a wide range of affordable products and a user-friendly experience.
Follow these simple steps to easily navigate the platform and discover your next favourite find. If you need assistance, Temu’s customer support team is available 24/7.
So, shop with confidence on Temu!
By Jerome-Mario Utomi
Some persons are born as a special breed of humans. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is one of such persons.
In fact, at 55, Ebie encapsulates Menachem Mendel Schneerson’s postulation about people born as a special breed. Schneerson: “Because time itself is like a spiral, something special happens on your birthday each year: The same energy that God invested in you at birth is present once again.”.
When you look at Ebie’s career trajectory, his exhilarating performances in all the public offices he has held, his contributions to making Delta State a dream state for Deltans, and his current efforts to saturate the Niger Delta region with socio-economic, infrastructural, and human capital development as NDDC chairman, you won’t but agree that he indeed, as submitted by Menachem Mendel Schneerson, belongs to a rare breed of humans. Born January 2, 1970, Ebie’s birthday is a huge celebration of excellence.
Though he wears no airs and does not sound his own trumpet, anyone who encounters him will readily see in him a personality whose life is characterised by remarkable, legendary, and exemplary feats.
A thoroughbred attorney and oil and gas exploration executive, before his appointment as NDDC Board Chairman in November 2023, Ebie had served as Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education and later, Secretary to the State Government.
Private and public sector stakeholders share common, refreshing commentaries about Ebie’s eventful and impactful 55 years on earth and his salutary accomplishments.
The common denominator, however, is that this “birthday boy,” this illustrious son of the Ika ancient kingdom who had contributed immensely to the realisation of the Smart and Stronger Delta agenda of the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration”, is worthy of commendation, emulation, and celebration as he turns 55 today.
Late American President John Quincy Adams was probably talking about Ebie when he argued that “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” Indeed, in Ebie, you see a man whose knack for hard work, honesty, integrity, purposefulness, and excellence has been a source of inspiration to his subordinates and admirers.
His amiable and genial attributes, his traits of transparency and rock-solid integrity, as well as his goal-orientated nature, are arguably traceable to his grandfather, who was the first ordained reverend of the Anglican Church in the Ika nation, and whose two sons later became ordained reverend gentlemen themselves.
As Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education from 2015-2019, for instance, Ebie achieved unprecedented set goals, which included the massive renovation and rehabilitation of schools and the revamping of grassroots sports through the Zenith Bank Delta Principal’s and Headmaster’s Cup.
In 2019, he achieved a record-breaking and, of course, the transparent recruitment of 1,000 teachers, posted across secondary schools in the state. This merit-based and high-level transparency recruitment exercise made it possible for most of the beneficiaries to scale through without knowing anyone in the ministry or government.
In recognition of his rare attributes, then Governor Okowa made the following elegant statement about Ebie during his inauguration as SSG: “Mr Ebie is a fine gentleman who served meritoriously as Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in the first tenure of his administration. His civility, analytical intelligence, communication skills, and diligence are essential qualities needed for the office of the SSG.
In addition to these, modern statecraft, with all its complexities and challenges, requires team players, proactive leaders, and men with a large appetite for work. Mr Ebie meets these criteria, and I am convinced that he is well equipped to enrich the social, political, and economic narrative of our dear state.”
In just one year as NDDC Board Chairman, the Board under his leadership has turned not just the Commission round for the better but also the entire Niger Delta region through purposeful and result-orientated superintendence.
Today is not just Ebie’s birthday but also the dawn of a new year for him, the beginning of another cycle of 365 days of rendering quality, humane, deliberate, intentional, and transformational service to Nigeria and the people of the Niger Delta in particular.
Happy birthday, sir!
Utomi, a media specialist, writes from Lagos, Nigeria. He can be reached via [email protected]/08032725374.
Feature/OPED
Kaolin Mining in Nigeria and Processing into Pharmaceutical Grade Kaolin with Export Potential
By Anaekwe Everistus Nnamdi
Kaolin, a versatile and valuable industrial mineral, holds significant promise for Nigeria’s mining and industrial sectors. Its wide-ranging applications, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, present an untapped potential for mining and processing into pharmaceutical-grade material for both local use and export.
Kaolin, or china clay, is a soft, white clay primarily composed of kaolinite. It finds applications in ceramics, paper, paint, rubber, and plastics. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as an excipient, binder, and coating agent for tablets, underscoring its economic significance. Pharmaceutical-grade kaolin is a premium product, requiring high purity levels and strict processing standards.
Nigeria boasts substantial kaolin deposits in states like Adamawa, Katsina, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti, with reserves exceeding two billion metric tons. Despite this abundance, the potential of kaolin mining and processing remains underutilized due to limited investment, inadequate infrastructure, and technological challenges.
The local demand for kaolin, particularly in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, is on the rise. As Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector grows, fueled by an increasing population and higher prevalence of chronic diseases, the need for high-quality pharmaceutical excipients like kaolin is set to surge. Beyond pharmaceuticals, kaolin is essential in toothpaste, cosmetics, and agrochemicals, further diversifying its domestic applications.
Globally, the kaolin market was valued at USD 3.09 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 4.90 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.59% from 2023 to 2030. The rising demand across industries such as paper, ceramics, paints, and rubber drives this growth. Construction activities worldwide also contribute to the expanding market, aligning with the growing global population’s needs.
Pharmaceutical-grade kaolin represents a niche yet high-value segment of this market. Major importers include the United States, Germany, Japan, and South Korea, where stringent regulations require high-quality raw materials.
Nigeria’s strategic location and trade agreements with African and international partners position it as a potential supplier. Investments in mining and processing infrastructure could enable Nigeria to compete globally, leveraging its vast reserves and cost advantages.
Trends in the Kaolin Market
Increased Demand for High-Purity Kaolin: The pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries are driving the need for ultra-fine, high-purity kaolin that meets regulatory standards.
Sustainability in Mining: Emphasis is growing on sustainable practices, minimizing environmental impact, and benefiting local communities.
Technological Advancements: Innovations in processing technology improve beneficiation efficiency, meeting stringent global standards.
Local Value Addition: Many governments encourage local processing industries to reduce reliance on raw material exports.
Processing pharmaceutical-grade kaolin involves a series of meticulously controlled stages. The first step is mining and beneficiation, which includes extracting kaolin and removing impurities through processes such as washing, sieving, and magnetic separation.
Next, calcination is employed to heat the kaolin, removing moisture and enhancing its chemical and physical properties.
This is followed by grinding and micronizing, a critical phase where the kaolin is refined to achieve the ultra-fine particle size required for pharmaceutical applications.
Finally, quality testing is conducted to ensure the product meets stringent international pharmacopoeia standards, guaranteeing its suitability for high-value uses.
Modern processing plants in Nigeria could significantly boost the local value chain, create jobs, and reduce dependency on imported pharmaceutical-grade kaolin.
The Nigerian mining sector operates under the Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, which provides the legal framework for activities. Key provisions include:
Licensing: Companies require licenses, such as Exploration Licenses, Mining Leases, and Small-Scale Mining Leases.
Environmental Compliance: Operations must adhere to environmental regulations, including conducting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
Community Engagement: Companies must engage host communities and deliver socio-economic benefits.
Additionally, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) oversees pharmaceutical product quality, including raw materials like kaolin. Compliance with NAFDAC standards is crucial for local producers targeting the pharmaceutical market.
Kaolin mining and processing offer Nigeria an opportunity to diversify its economy, reduce import dependency, and boost foreign exchange earnings. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and regulatory compliance can unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s kaolin reserves.
As global demand for high-purity kaolin rises, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, Nigeria’s strategic position and abundant resources make it a key player in the industry’s future.
Anaekwe Everistus Nnamdi is the founder and Market Research Analyst of Foraminifera Market Research Limited, Lagos and can be reached via [email protected] or +234 8033782777
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