By Abiodun KOMOLAFE

The passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned elder statesman and Afenifere chieftain, and the breaking news about Chief Edwin Clark, mark the end of an era.

Focusing primarily on Adebanjo, he represented, very much like Clark, the spirit of emancipation, which arose out of the earlier stages of the agitation for an end to the colonial incursion in Africa. Indeed, Clark was actually, as a student at Holborn College of Law in London, an active member of the West African Students’ Union (WASU). Between 1952 and 1965, he was also a member of the Honourable Society of Inner Temple, London.

WASU is of great significance, for it triggered off the current of thinking, based on the progressive philosophical base, not just for dismantling colonialism but for presenting a programme of action to guide the post-colonial state. The position of WASU affected the thinking of movements such as the Action Group (AG) in Nigeria and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) in Ghana, amongst others.

Indeed, the manifesto pledge of the AG, to ‘make life more abundant’, is aligned with WASU’s affiliation with the ground-breaking manifesto of the Labour Party in 1945, ‘Let us face the future’, which has stood as the most important manifesto ever issued. Significantly, it was the AG manifesto in 1951 which persuaded Adebanjo to switch from the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) to AG. The late sage obviously felt that AG’s manifesto was in alignment with his own political philosophy.

By the time the foremost nationalist switched to AG, the NCNC had undergone a significant shift in its ideology. Following the death of Herbert Macaulay, the party abandoned its initial stance on a federalist post-colonial state and adopted a highly centralized ‘unification’ position. This drastic change had far-reaching consequences, leading to disastrous effects that still plague the country today.

Adebanjo’s shift in allegiance revealed the politics of an era which was based on philosophical ideas and ideological thrusts. This is in marked contradistinction to today’s trend of ‘decamping’ for purely personal advancement and pecuniary benefits. He remained steadfast in his progressive beliefs from his early 20s until his passing at 96. This is why an era has passed, and the passing of that era should be treated with deep regret. The highly respected Nigerian did not shift from his ideological position, through tribulations, setbacks and defeats, including the prospect of going to jail.

During the 1962 treasonable felony trial, Adebanjo faced a choice: abandon his principles and gain a lucrative appointment by testifying for the prosecution, or stand firm. He chose the latter! Today, the political atmosphere is in direct contrast to the faithfulness exhibited by the Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode-born leader and the nation is financially and morally poorer for it. Nigeria is today mired in the ’development of the underdevelopment’, underachievement and an alarming slide into the fringes in the world pecking order.

In my January 6, 2009 article, ‘Afenifere: Once upon an identity’, I wrote that many Yorubas believed the once-revered body had become extinct, with its relevance dying even before the passing of notable figures like Bola Ige and Abraham Adesanya. Fast-forward to today, and the question remains: how relevant is Afenifere in the face of widespread crises, including security concerns and rampant unemployment in the Southwest?

If a country’s politics is not ideologically driven, there are always consequences. In other words, if Nigeria had continued to produce people who believed in the ideological current and stayed faithful, the country could have lived to be at par with Brazil, which is the world’s 10th largest economy; if not, with India, which is the 5th largest.

Instructively, there was a clear ideological mandate of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that, in his first coming, that translated into practice moved forty million Brazilians out of poverty and built one million housing units annually for eight years. Nigeria could have achieved similar progress, and more, if it had continued to create the atmosphere that produced Ayo Adebanjo and people like him, such as Edwin Clark.

Speaking generally, Nigeria’s biggest problem is the attitude of its leaders and the popular. Imagine the plight of the average citizen! As fate would have it, Nigeria now has one of the highest poverty rates in the world, with significant spatial and socio-economic inequalities, exacerbating social unrest and instability. The living standards are going down, and there’s mass unemployment, with large trade deficits and dependence on oil exports not only resulting in economic stagnation but also hindering development. Here, corruption is a fair game.
Bribery is also a fair game. The trouble is that either is a seed; once it is sown, it will surely germinate,
then bear fruit. After that comes the harvest season.

The reality is unambiguous: many families survive on less than N5,000 per week, while the minimum wage barely covers the cost of a bag of rice. Soaring gasoline prices, inadequate education, healthcare and nutrition have all contributed to a vicious cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. To make matters worse, the inflation rate has skyrocketed to an all-time high, exacerbating the country’s economic challenges; and it is as if the gods are angry!

With these pressing issues staring us in the face, what concrete solutions is Afenifere proposing, and how is it engaging with organizations like the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) to address these challenges? Furthermore, as Afenifere’s stance seems to swing and swerve depending on the whims of its leaders, is the organization presenting solid position papers and working collaboratively with others to drive meaningful
change? The fall of giants like Ayo Adebanjo serves as a poignant reminder that the baton of leadership must be
passed to a new generation of Nigerians who are equally committed to the ideals of democracy, social justice, and federalism. In saner societies, Afenifere is supposed to have evolved into a research institute powerhouse for Southwest Nigeria, proffering ironclad solutions to state and local governments on education, internal security, food security and health challenges. But is in doing that?

How many people relate to Afenifere these days, apart from a tiny segment of the elite? Again, if one may ask, what’s the continued relevance of Afenifere? Its influence has waned, and its connection to the average person, particularly outside the elite circle, is tenuous at best. If you talk to somebody in Ijebu-Jesa, my Native Nazareth, what is his concern with Afenifere? Does he know what it stands for? With the last of the titans finding their way to their Creator, will Afenifere still be relevant in decades to come?

Adebanjo was once here! Now, he belongs in history! He has done his bit and he has left the stage. He fought tirelessly for his principles, unyielding in the face of adversity, and uncompromising in his pursuit of a more just and equitable society. His legacy, now forever entwined with the fabric of Afenifere, stands as an inspiration, illuminating the enduring importance of equity, good governance and social justice – timeless ideals that transcend the boundaries of mortality.

Adebanjo’s passing represents what we have lost and what might have been. The lesson from the passing of people like him should be taught in schools and documentary dramas made about their lives in order to instruct, guide and guard. Perhaps, it’d still be possible to rekindle that era!

May the beautiful souls of Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark find rest in the bosom of their
Creator!

May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

*KOMOLAFE wrote from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State, Nigeria ( ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk )

By Toby Prince

In the heart of Nigeria’s digital economy, a story of patriotism and resilience unfolds. The telecommunications sector, a driving force behind the country’s growth, has been facing unprecedented challenges. Despite its significant contributions to Nigeria’s social and economic development, the sector has been struggling to keep up with the rising costs of operations.

For nearly a decade, telecom tariffs in Nigeria remained unchanged, while the demand for data and voice services skyrocketed. The cost of operations, however, surged due to rising energy costs, inflation, currency devaluation, and increased costs of importing telecom equipment. These mounting expenses threatened the very foundation of the sector, making it difficult for operators to maintain infrastructure and deliver high-quality services.

In the face of these challenges, telecom operators requested tariff adjustments to reflect the current cost of delivering services. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) carefully considered these proposals, balancing the needs of operators with the interests of consumers. Instead of approving the suggested 100% rate increase, the NCC authorized a maximum adjustment of up to 50% within the current tariff bands.

The NCC plays a vital role in regulating the telecommunications industry in Nigeria, and its actions are guided by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003. This act empowers the body to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecom operators, ensuring a balance between consumer protection and industry sustainability.

The NCC’s decision to approve tariff adjustments was not taken lightly. It was based on extensive consultations with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. The goal was to strike a balance between the financial realities of telecom operators and the economic pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses. The approved tariff adjustments were capped at 50%, significantly lower than the 100% increase requested by operators. This decision showcases the NCC’s commitment to creating a telecommunications environment that works for everyone.
To further protect consumers, the NCC mandated telecom operators to implement the approved adjustments transparently and fairly.

Meanwhile, operators were also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates, ensuring customers are fully aware of any changes to their billing structures. Additionally, the NCC’s updated Quality of Service Regulations empower it to sanction operators who fail to meet their service obligations.

Nigerians need to understand that the recent tariff adjustments in the telecommunications sector are a necessary step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. These adjustments will enable operators to invest in infrastructure upgrades and innovation, ultimately providing opportunities for local businesses to thrive.

A robust telecommunications sector is crucial for achieving Nigeria’s digital economy goals, including e-commerce growth, broadband penetration, and digital inclusion. The tariff adjustments will strengthen operators’ contributions to these objectives by providing connectivity to underserved and rural areas, driving innovation, creating jobs, and boosting economic productivity.

Since 2013, telecom operators have grappled with escalating costs without corresponding adjustments to the tariff rates they offered. Without tariff adjustments, operators risk being unable to sustain their operations, leading to service degradation and potential job losses within the industry. This would increase the rate of unemployment in the country, contributing to the hardship the government has been fighting hard to eradicate.

The telecommunications sector is capital-intensive, requiring continuous investment in infrastructure to meet growing demand and improve service quality. The approved tariff adjustments will provide operators with the financial resources needed to invest in network expansion, upgrade existing infrastructure, and enhance customer service. This will ultimately benefit consumers by delivering better connectivity, reduced downtime, and wider network coverage.

It’s worth noting that the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of tariff adjustments aligns with international best practices, ensuring Nigeria stays competitive in the global telecommunications landscape. By maintaining tariffs within the bands outlined in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, the Commission has ensured that the adjustments are both fair and evidence-based.

Furthermore, the NCC’s modest tariff adjustment was influenced by the financial strains that many businesses and households are experiencing. In the context of the broader economy, the long-term benefits of the slight increase in consumer bills far outweigh the immediate costs. Benefits such as expanded coverage, improved network quality, and enhanced customer service will provide greater value to consumers, further ensuring they receive a greater telecommunications experience.

In other to mitigate the impact on vulnerable consumers, the NCC has mandated that operators simplify their tariff structures, and offer affordable plans that will be suitable to different income levels. Additionally, the Commission will continue to monitor the implementation of the adjustments to ensure compliance with its guidelines and protect consumers from exploitation. This action validates the Commission’s goal of ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of digital innovation and connectivity in Africa.

As a regulator, it is obvious that the NCC is not only protecting consumers, but also supporting operators, indigenous vendors, and suppliers who form the pillar of the telecom industry. It is worthy of note to state that the adjustments have no relation to the ongoing tax reform conversation. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of a thriving telecommunications sector are felt across all segments of society.

The tariff adjustments approved by the NCC are a necessary step toward addressing the financial and operational challenges faced by telecom operators. Far from being complicit in any alleged exploitation, the NCC has demonstrated commendable patriotism and a deep commitment to balancing consumer protection with industry sustainability. The NCC’s actions in approving the tariff adjustments reflect patriotism and national progress at its finest.

By enabling operators to invest in infrastructure, improve service quality, and support indigenous businesses, the NCC is laying the foundation for a more robust and inclusive telecommunications sector that can measure up with its international counterparts all across the globe. The adjustments are not merely a response to current market conditions but a forward-looking strategy that will ensure Nigeria’s telecommunications industry remains a vital driver of economic growth and digital transformation.

As Nigerians, it is very important to view these adjustments as a patriotic move by the NCC to secure the future of connectivity and development in the country. The Commission’s action embodies transparency and accountability, and it serves as a reminder that effective regulation is not about appeasing one stakeholder group over another, but about creating an environment that works for everyone. Through its efforts, the NCC is proving that a stronger, more sustainable telecommunications sector is not just a possibility but a reality within reach.

By James Aduku Odaudu, PhD

Introduction

Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory
(FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central
region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.

Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria

The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth.

However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:

1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.

2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.

3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.

4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.

5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.

The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:

1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks

The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.

2. Enhancing Energy Supply

By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.

3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure

The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.

4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation

Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.

5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development

The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.

6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development

Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro- processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.

Expected Impact of the NCDC

The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:

Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.

Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.

Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.

Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.

Challenges and Recommendations

As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:

Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.

Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.

Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.

Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.

Conclusion

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.

• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com