Feature/OPED
Buhari’s Scorecard and Kukah’s Prophesy of Denunciation
By Jerome-Mario Chijioke Utomi
One of the most exciting teachings I received during my formative years was the lessons on prophecy. It was during my catechism class as a Catholic Christian, and prophecy as a topic posed a huge but thrilling challenge to me. On that day, at that time and in that place, the Catechist (teacher) told the class that ‘prophecy is the certain foretelling of a future event by a person supernaturally informed of it and supernaturally moved to announce it. This, he added, comes in two ways; prophesy of foreknowledge and prophesy of denunciation’.
While the prophecy of foreknowledge, according to him, deals with what is certain to come, prophesy of denunciation tells what is to come if the present situation is not changed, both acting as information and warning, respectively.
This knowledge gained years ago, however, came flooding recently while reading a media report where Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Kukah, among other painful remarks, emphasized that Nigerians experienced the worst type of corruption during the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari than any other before him.
Kukah stated this while presenting a keynote speech titled: ‘The Future of Constitutional Democracy in Nigeria: Imperative of a New Constitutional Order,” at the 60th call to bar anniversary of Aare Afe Babalola on in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State on Monday, July 10, 2023, an event that had Former president, Olusegun Obasanjo as Chairman, argued that the country is shared its sovereignty with bandits and terrorists, and submitted that even though corruption did not start during Buhari’s tenure, it was amplified morally, financially and in other terms in the last administration.
Though he said it in a different way, venue and time, in the real sense of it, this piece believes that Bishop Kukah may not have said something new or different from what Nigerians have been worried about all these years. In fact, endemic corruption in the country has been a reality many Nigerians of goodwill worried about in the past 8years of President Buhari’s administration.
Analysts also have in the past expressed worries that within the years under review, no nation best typified a country in dire need of peace and social cohesion among her various sociopolitical groups than Nigeria as myriads of sociopolitical contradictions conspired, directly and indirectly, to give the nation an unenviable tag of a country in constant search of social harmony, justice, equity, equality, and peace.
It is an open secret that under President Buhari’s administration, Life in Nigeria, quoting Thomas Hobbs, became nasty, brutish, and short. Nigerians never had it that bad.
Intrinsically, a higher echo of concern in my view, arising from Bishop Kukah’s latest observation, is that if Nigerians either by omission or commission allow the ills pointed out by the erudite cleric to thrive and blossom, If President Tinubu-led Federal Government allows the new awareness go with political winds or fails to draw ‘intricate’ correctional lesson from the tragic experience and situation left behind by former President, it will elicit two separate but similar possibilities.
First and very fundamental, it will definitely lead to a situation in the country whereby corruption would spread its wings across the nation, destroying whatever necessary virtue is left behind for human and infrastructural development. Secondly, if the current Federal Government fails to arrest the drifting ‘culture of corruption’ as spotted in the previous administration, Kukah’s speech shall in no distant amount to a ‘prophesy of denunciation’ that foretold what is to come if the present situation is not changed-but was ignored.
To further understand where this piece is headed, it is worthy of note that none of the current challenges, political, socioeconomic and corruption started with Buhari’s administration. They have long existed in the country.
Corruption, according to reports, is but a human problem that has existed in some forms. Its fights also date back to Colonial governments as they (Colonial Overlords) sufficiently legislated against it in the first criminal code ordinance of 1916(No15 of 1916), which elaborately made provisions prohibiting official bribery and corruption by persons in the public service and in the judiciary.
Also, at independence on October 1, 1960, it was recorded that the criminal code against corruption and abuse of office in Nigeria were in sections 98 to 116 and 404 of the code.
But while the situation then may look ugly and challenging, what happened under former President Buhari’s administration was frightening and amply qualifies as a crisis. More specifically, Nigerians with critical minds were particularly unhappy that the President who rode to power in favour of his fellow citizens and orchestrated ‘integrity’ could not effectively tame corruption in the country but allowed it to take both nepotistic and supportive forms.
As we know, while ‘nepotistic corruption involves unjustified and often unqualified appointment of friends or acquaintances to public offices in violations to the established norms (federal character), supportive corruption on its part refers to actions undertaken to protect the existing or already done corrupt practices particularly when the person(s) involved belong to the same ruling party.
Compounding the ugly reality is that at a time the country’s economy was showing its inability to sustain any kind of meaningful growth that promotes the social welfare of the people, corruption became even more entrenched as scandal upon scandal completely laid bare the anti-corruption stance of Buhari’s administration and those who were initially deceived by the government’s alleged fight against corruption suddenly came to the conclusion that nothing has changed.
This situation becomes even ‘’more appreciated’’ when one remembers that the list of actions not taken by the now-rested administration to confront corruption which made Nigerians face actual and potential difficulties, remained lengthy and worrisome.
Chiefly among these was the former President’s failure to objectively make the fight against corruption a personal priority for him or those who report directly to him. This particular failure presented the former President as one that started off with high moral standards, strong conviction and determination to beat down corruption but has neither lived up to that good intention nor dealt with all transgressors without exception.
Aside from the fact that while ordinary Nigerians diminish socially and economically within the period under review, aggravating the challenge is the consciousness that the privileged political class flourished in obscene splendour as they pillage and ravage the resources of our country at will. This malfeasance at all levels of governance led to the destruction of social infrastructure relevant to a meaningful and acceptable level of social existence for our people. It was clear that adequate investment in this area was not their priority.
Again, separate from the unwarranted, senseless, premeditate, well organized and orchestrated killings across the country-from Benue to the Plateau, Taraba to Zamfara, Enugu to Ebonyi, Kogi to Edo, Ekiti to Ondo, where Nigerians were cut down at will, which characterized the administration, another ill that plagued President Buhari’s administration, faded its integrity light and mirrored it as a central threat to the nation’s attainment of social progress was the former President’s penchant for following self-made tracks without keeping entirely to the tracks or opinion of the masses. This particular failure and failure on the former President’s part prompted many to conclude that there was something deeply troubling with his disdain for the rule of law.
In the education sector, 10.5 million children, going by reports, were out of school under the former administration, the highest in the world. Our industries bore the brunt of a negative economic environment. As a result, job losses and unemployment continue to skyrocket, creating a serious case of social dislocation for the vast majority of our people.
The result of this poor leadership judgement was further signposted in the grinding poverty in the land and amplified by a report from the Brookings Institute, which said that Nigeria had overtaken India as the country with the largest number of extremely poor in early 2018 in the world. That was at the end of May 2018; Brookings Institute’s trajectories also suggested that Nigeria had about 87 million people in extreme poverty, compared with India’s 73 million.
This result cannot in any ramifications be judged as a scorecard of a good leader. To Buhari’s administration, the fight against corruption was more of a well-said than a well-done assignment.
No wonder Chinua Achebe, in his book the trouble with Nigeria, stated that Nigerians are corrupt because the system they live in today makes corruption easy and profitable; they will cease to be corrupt when it is made difficult and inconvenient. The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership, and Nigeria can change today if it discovers leaders who have the will, the ability, and the vision.
To therefore change the narrative and win in the race to stamp out corruption in the country, the present Federal Government must recognise that there is nothing more ‘difficult to handle, more doubtful of success, and more dangerous to carry through than initiating such changes as the innovator will make more enemies of all those who prospered under old other’. But any leaders that do, come out powerful, secured, respected and happy.
This piece believes that stamping out corruption in Nigeria is an opportunity that President Tinubu must not miss.
Utomi Jerome-Mario is the Programme Coordinator (Media and Policy) at Social and Economic Justice Advocacy (SEJA), Lagos. He 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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