Category: Economy

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How Kwara State Government is Promoting Poverty in the State

Comrade Sulaiman A. O.

A Concerned Citizen


The Nigerian government has implemented policies that have led to the removal of subsidies on essential goods and services, such as fuel, electricity, and education. This has resulted in a significant increase in the cost of living for ordinary Nigerians, including those in Kwara State. The devaluation of the naira has also contributed to the economic hardship faced by many citizens.

The Impact on Citizens in Kwara State

The removal of subsidies and the devaluation of the naira have led to a situation where many Kwara State residents are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living has increased significantly, and many citizens are finding it difficult to afford basic necessities like food, healthcare, and education.

The Kwara State Government’s Response

The federal government has been returning a significant portion of the revenue generated from the removal of subsidies to state governments, including Kwara State. However, the Kwara State government has failed to prioritize human capacity development and instead focus on infrastructure development projects. This has further exacerbated the poverty situation in the state.

The Need for a Different Approach

The Kwara State government needs to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, rather than competing with the private sector. By investing in unique businesses that solve problems for entrepreneurs, such as producing machines, tools, and raw materials, the government can support the growth of the private sector and create jobs for citizens.

Solutions to Poverty in Kwara State

The Kwara State government should:

1. Invest in Human Capacity Development: Invest in education, healthcare, and skills development programs to empower citizens with the skills and knowledge they need to participate in the economy.
2. Create an Enabling Business Environment: Create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive by providing support for entrepreneurs, reducing bureaucracy, and providing access to finance.
3. Support Entrepreneurship: Support entrepreneurship by providing training, mentorship, and access to finance for start-ups and small businesses.
4. Invest in Infrastructure: Invest in infrastructure development projects that support economic growth and development, such as roads, transportation systems, and energy infrastructure.
5. Invest in Security: Invest in security measures to protect lives and property, and create a safe environment for businesses to operate.

By taking these steps, the Kwara State government will help reduce poverty and create a more prosperous and equitable society for its citizens. The government should also work with private sector partners, civil society organizations, and international development agencies to support poverty reduction efforts in the state.

Conclusion

The poverty situation in Kwara State is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. The Kwara State government has a critical role to play in addressing this challenge by prioritizing human capacity development, creating an enabling business environment, supporting entrepreneurship, investing in infrastructure, and investing in security. By working together, the government and citizens will build a more prosperous and equitable society for all.

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FG, States, LGs Share N2.001 Trillion July Revenue

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has distributed N2.001 trillion among the Federal Government, states, and local government councils as July 2025 revenue. This allocation marks the second consecutive month of growth in allocations, with a 10% increase from the N1.818 trillion shared in June.

Here’s a breakdown of the allocation:
– Federal Government: N735.081 billion
– State Governments: N660.349 billion
– Local Government Councils: N485.039 billion
– Oil-producing States Derivation: N120.359 billion, representing 13% of mineral revenue

The distributable revenue comprised¹:
– Statutory Revenue: N1.282 trillion
– Value Added Tax (VAT): N640.610 billion
– Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL): N37.601 billion
– Exchange Difference: N39.745 billion

From the VAT revenue, the Federal Government received N96.092 billion, State Governments received N320.305 billion, and Local Government Councils received N224.214 billion. The FAAC noted that Petroleum Profit Tax, Oil and Gas Royalty, EMTL, and Excise Duty increased significantly in July, while VAT and import duty recorded marginal increases.

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US Contradicts WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Over Nigeria’s Economy



The United States has disputed World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy, citing that the new minimum wage of N70,000 hasn’t improved the standard of living for Nigerian workers due to the continued depreciation of the Naira.

The US report highlights that the minimum wage, pegged at about $47.90 per month, has lost its value due to the Naira trading at over N1,500 to the dollar. This has resulted in the wage being no longer higher than the poverty income level. Furthermore, the law only applies to employers with 25 or more full-time staff, leaving most workers in the informal economy unprotected.

Some key points from the report include¹ ²:
– Naira Depreciation: The Naira’s continued depreciation has undermined the new minimum wage, making it difficult for workers to afford basic necessities.
– Limited Coverage: The minimum wage law only applies to a small portion of the workforce, with most workers operating in the informal economy.
– Enforcement Issues: The government rarely enforces minimum wage and overtime laws, with penalties being low and not commensurate with other crimes like fraud.
– Informal Economy: Between 70 and 80 percent of Nigeria’s working population operates in the informal economy, where authorities fail to enforce wage, hour, and occupational safety and health laws.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala had commended President Tinubu’s administration for restoring stability to Nigeria’s economy, but the US report presents a contrasting view, highlighting the challenges faced by Nigerian workers.

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Nigeria Deports 51 More Foreigners for Cyberterrorism and Internet Fraud

Nigeria Deports 51 More Foreigners for Cyberterrorism and Internet Fraud



The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) have repatriated 51 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. The deportees include 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian, bringing the total number of deported convicts to 102 since the exercise began on August 15, 2025.

These individuals were part of a larger group of 192 foreign nationals arrested in Lagos during a sting operation targeting a major foreign-led cybercrime syndicate. The EFCC has stated that further deportations are scheduled in the coming days as part of an intensified crackdown on transnational cybercrime.

The deported individuals had completed their prison sentences handed down by the Federal High Court in Lagos before being handed over to immigration authorities for repatriation. The EFCC emphasized that this operation demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to tackling global cybercrime syndicates and protecting its digital space.

Key Details:
– Number of Deportees: 102 foreign nationals deported since August 15, 2025
– Nationalities: 50 Chinese and one Tunisian in the latest batch
– Crimes: Cyber-terrorism and internet fraud, including romance scams and fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes
– Arrests: 192 foreign nationals arrested in Lagos during a sting operation
– Future Plans: Further deportations scheduled as court processes for remaining suspects are concluded.

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Nigerian Government Bans Nursery Primar JSS3 Graduation Parties Party

The Imo State Government has indeed banned graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School (JSS3) students, effective immediately. This decision aims to reduce financial burdens on parents and redirect attention to academic development. Only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) students are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies, aligning with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.Key Highlights of the Ban:- Reduced Financial Burden: The government seeks to alleviate excessive spending on graduation parties, which can be financially draining for parents.- Focus on Academics: By limiting graduation ceremonies to key academic milestones, the government aims to emphasize the importance of academic achievement over extravagant celebrations.- Promoting Discipline: The ban is also intended to instill discipline and responsible values in students, encouraging them to focus on their studies rather than indulging in lavish parties.Additional Measures:- Textbook Policy: The government has also directed schools to stop changing textbooks annually, mandating the use of approved textbooks for at least four years. This aims to reduce costs for parents and promote consistency in teaching.- Monitoring Compliance: The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will monitor schools to ensure compliance with the new policies.The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has praised the Imo State Government for this decision, describing it as a bold step toward instilling discipline and responsible value reorientation among young learners.

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How Colonial Powers Exploited Nigeria and Other African Countries


Here is how colonial powers, including America, took advantage of Nigeria and other African countries.

Economic Exploitation
Colonial powers exploited Africa’s natural resources, imposing their own economic systems and policies that benefited them at the expense of local populations. This led to
– Resource extraction: Colonial powers extracted resources such as palm oil, groundnuts, cocoa, cotton, and palm kernel from Africa, often using forced labor.
– Economic dependency: African countries were forced to rely on their colonial masters for economic support, creating a cycle of dependency that persists today.

Cultural Imperialism
Colonial powers imposed their own culture, language, and beliefs on African countries, suppressing local traditions and identities:
– Loss of cultural heritage: The imposition of foreign cultures led to the erosion of traditional African cultures and identities.
– Language barrier: The use of European languages as official languages hindered communication and development in African countries.

Political Interference
Colonial powers interfered in the governance of African countries, often supporting leaders who served their interests:
– Puppet governments: Colonial powers installed puppet governments that served their interests, rather than those of the local population.
– Undermining sovereignty: The interference in governance undermined the sovereignty of African countries, making it challenging for them to assert their own development agendas.

Legacy of Colonialism
The legacy of colonialism continues to impact Africa today, with many countries still struggling to overcome the economic, cultural, and political challenges imposed by colonial powers.³

To overcome these challenges, African leaders can focus on:
– Prioritizing national interests: Developing domestic industries and economies that benefit the local population.
– Promoting transparency and accountability: Ensuring good governance and accountability to the people.
– Investing in human capital and infrastructure: Developing the skills and abilities of the population, and investing in infrastructure that supports economic growth and development.
– Fostering regional cooperation and integration: Collaborating with other African countries to strengthen economic ties and promote peace and stability.
– Resisting external interference: Asserting sovereignty and protecting national interests from external influence.

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Reclaiming Africa’s Future

The Complex Relationship Between America and African Countries: A Critical Perspective

The relationship between America and African countries, particularly Nigeria, is multifaceted and often contentious. While the US presents itself as a guiding force for African nations, its actions often have far-reaching and devastating consequences.

The Interference Factor

The US has been accused of interrupting the governance of African countries by maligning good leaders and supporting those who prioritize American interests over national development. This selective support can lead to the empowerment of leaders who exploit and drain the resources of their countries, further entrenching poverty and instability.

Supporting Exploitative Leadership

By backing leaders who serve American interests, the US inadvertently or deliberately adds to empowering leaders who have exploited their people for personal gain and to serve the interests of America. This perpetuates a cycle of dependency, corruption, and underdevelopment, hindering African countries from realizing their full potential.

Economic Manipulation

The US has also been criticized for its role in devaluing African currencies and undermining local economies. By influencing economic policies and decisions, the US can create dependencies that stifle growth and self-sufficiency in African nations.

The Plight of Africa’s Riches

The African continent is blessed with abundant natural and human resources, yet the world order, led by America and some colonial powers, has consistently frustrated and undermined African economies. This has hindered the continent’s progress, perpetuating poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment.

A Call for Self-Determination

It’s essential for African countries to assert their sovereignty and prioritize their own development agendas. By recognizing the complexities of these relationships and taking control of their own destinies, African nations can work towards a more prosperous and self-determined future.

Advice to African Leaders

African leaders can break the cycle of dependency and underdevelopment by:
– Prioritizing national interests over external influences
– Developing and implementing homegrown economic policies that benefit their countries and people
– Promoting transparency and accountability in governance
– Investing in human capital and infrastructure development
– Fostering regional cooperation and integration
– Resisting external interference and asserting sovereignty
– Developing strategic partnerships that benefit African nations
– Encouraging citizen participation in decision-making processes

By heeding this advice, African leaders can unlock the continent’s true potential for growth, prosperity, and self-determination. Some African countries are already taking steps to strengthen their relationships with their diaspora communities, offering citizenship and other benefits to people of African descent. Examples include Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Gabon, Cape Verde, and Zimbabwe.¹

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Exploring the Latest Breakthroughs and Trends in AI Technology

Exploring the Latest Breakthroughs and Trends in AI Technology

The world of AI is rapidly evolving, with new developments and innovations emerging every day. Here are some exciting recent breakthroughs and trends:

Recent Breakthroughs:

  1. Text-to-Video AI: New metamorphic video capabilities are being explored, enabling more sophisticated video generation.
  2. AI in Medicine: AI models are being developed to assist in medical decision-making, with some models outperforming doctors in certain exams.
  3. Robotics: Robots are being designed to navigate complex environments, recognize objects, and even exhibit human-like touch.
  4. Quantum Computing: Researchers are making progress in developing fault-tolerant quantum computers and exploring the potential of photonic computing.

Emerging Trends:

  1. Generative AI: Large language models, text-to-image, and text-to-video models are becoming increasingly popular.
  2. Predictive Analytics: AI is being used to predict complex phenomena, such as chemical properties and nuclear waste behavior.
  3. Autonomous Systems: Self-driving cars and drones are being developed with advanced AI capabilities.

Research and Applications:

  1. Cancer Immunotherapy: AI is being used to analyze cell behavior and identify potential targets for therapy.
  2. Environmental Sustainability: AI is being applied to optimize carbon storage and minimize economic disruptions.
  3. Education: AI-powered platforms are being developed to support lifelong learning and improve student outcomes.

Some notable institutions driving AI research include:

  1. MIT: Researchers at MIT are working on various AI projects, including natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics.
  2. ScienceDaily: This platform provides updates on the latest AI research and breakthroughs.

To stay up-to-date on the latest AI news and developments, you can follow sources like:

  1. TechCrunch: Covers AI news, trends, and events.
  2. AI News: Reports on the latest AI news and insights.
  3. Google News: Aggregates news articles on artificial intelligence from various sources.
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The Best Way for Nigerians to Stop Corrupt Leaders in Power

The Best Way for Nigerians to Stop Corrupt Leaders in Power

Nigeria has been plagued by corruption for decades, with corrupt leaders looting the country’s treasury and perpetuating a culture of impunity. However, the power to stop corrupt leaders lies with the Nigerian people. Here are some ways Nigerians can work together to bring about change:

  1. Demand Transparency and Accountability

Nigerians should demand transparency and accountability from their leaders. This can be achieved by:

  • Attending town hall meetings and public forums to question leaders about their actions
  • Using social media to hold leaders accountable and demand transparency
  • Supporting investigative journalism and media outlets that expose corruption
  1. Vote Wisely

The power of the vote is a crucial tool in removing corrupt leaders from power. Nigerians should:

  • Research candidates thoroughly and vote for those with a track record of integrity and transparency
  • Reject candidates with a history of corruption or links to corrupt practices
  • Encourage others to vote and participate in the democratic process
  1. Support Anti-Corruption Efforts

Nigerians should support anti-corruption efforts by:

  • Reporting corrupt practices to the relevant authorities
  • Cooperating with anti-corruption agencies and providing information about corrupt activities
  • Demanding that anti-corruption agencies are independent and effective
  1. Promote a Culture of Integrity

Nigerians should promote a culture of integrity by:

  • Teaching children the importance of honesty and integrity
  • Encouraging whistleblowers to come forward and report corrupt practices
  • Rewarding integrity and transparency in public and private life
  1. Demand Institutional Reforms

Nigerians should demand institutional reforms that promote transparency and accountability. This includes:

  • Strengthening institutions such as the judiciary, legislature, and anti-corruption agencies
  • Promoting meritocracy and transparency in public appointments and promotions
  • Ensuring that institutions are independent and free from political interference
  1. Use Technology to Fight Corruption

Nigerians can use technology to fight corruption by:

  • Developing and using apps and platforms that promote transparency and accountability
  • Using social media to expose corrupt practices and mobilize public opinion
  • Supporting digital literacy and online activism
  1. Build a Critical Mass

Nigerians should build a critical mass of people who are committed to fighting corruption. This can be achieved by:

  • Building coalitions and networks of anti-corruption activists
  • Organizing public protests and demonstrations against corruption
  • Using social media to mobilize public opinion and build a movement against corruption

By working together and using these strategies, Nigerians can create a groundswell of opposition to corruption and demand that their leaders act with integrity and transparency. The power to stop corrupt leaders lies with the people, and it is time for Nigerians to take action.

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FG Launches MSME Clinics in Akure, Provides N250,000 Grants to Small Business Owners

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the 7th Expanded National MSME Clinics in Akure, Ondo State, providing a platform for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to engage directly with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and business support organizations. During the launch, Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the disbursement of N250,000 unconditional grants to outstanding small business owners in Ondo State.

Key Highlights of the MSME Clinics:
Objective: To create an enabling environment for MSMEs, which account for over 90% of businesses in Nigeria and contribute over 45% to the national economy.
Grants: N250,000 unconditional grants were awarded to exceptional small business owners in Ondo State.
Other Initiatives: The Federal Government also rolled out other support measures, including:
N75 Billion MSME Intervention Fund: Administered by the Bank of Industry to support MSMEs.
N50 Billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme: Providing grants of N50,000 each to one million nano businesses across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria.
N75 Billion Manufacturers Fund: Offering up to N1 billion in funding at a 9% interest rate for manufacturers.

The launch of the MSME Clinics in Akure is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to empower small businesses and stimulate economic growth in Nigeria.