Entrepreneurship: A Mandatory Course for All Universities

Entrepreneurship: A Mandatory Course for All Universities

9:11 PM   

The Importance of Entrepreneurship Education in Ghana

In today’s rapidly changing global economy, entrepreneurship has become one of the most powerful engines of growth, innovation, and job creation. In Ghana, most governments keep emphasizing that “Entrepreneurship is the engine of growth,” but none of them have ever put in place mechanisms to let entrepreneurship bring the growth they talk about. Some even at the end of their term in government manage to kill the few businesses established by these entrepreneurs.

Ghana, where graduate unemployment continues to rise each year up to the point now that they have an Unemployed Graduate Association, it is increasingly critical for tertiary institutions to make entrepreneurship a compulsory course for all students. This is not merely an academic reform—it is a national necessity to prepare young people for a future that rewards creativity, initiative, and problem-solving.

Some of the institutions teach entrepreneurship as a semester subject, but that alone will not have the necessary effect on the graduates. They will just learn the theory and pass the semester examination and move in as usual.

The Free SHS policy has been a laudable initiative that has expanded access to education, but it has also created immense pressure on tertiary institutions. Overcrowded lecture halls for some subjects and courses now limit opportunities for critical thinking, creativity, and practical application. Consequently, many graduates leave school unprepared for the job market, lacking the entrepreneurial mindset and practical experience needed in today’s competitive environment although they have all the necessary degrees but have no idea what happens in the workplace and even how to prepare themselves for the future.

The National Service Scheme was originally designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. However, it has largely fallen short of this goal. Many service personnel spend the year performing repetitive administrative tasks—filing documents, making photocopies, or serving tea—instead of acquiring relevant professional experience. This occurs partly because many institutions are already overstaffed, leaving little space for meaningful engagement or mentorship.

Other countries have successfully restructured similar programs to connect graduates with real-world learning. Singapore has made practical education central to its tertiary reforms, linking every degree to industry needs. Rwanda’s National Employment Program connects graduates to internships and startup funding, while India’s Skill India Mission has trained millions in practical trades—transforming local economies and creating jobs from the grassroots up.

For Ghana to progress, integrating entrepreneurship education into all tertiary programs is essential. It will produce graduates who are not only job seekers but job creators, driving sustainable growth and national development.

Benefits of Making Entrepreneurship Compulsory

Reducing Graduate Unemployment

One of Ghana’s most pressing challenges is the growing number of unemployed graduates entering a saturated job market each year. Making entrepreneurship compulsory will equip students with the skills, mindset, and confidence to create their own employment opportunities. Graduates will learn to identify market gaps, develop small businesses, and in turn, employ others which leads to significantly reducing unemployment across the country.

Promoting Innovation and Creativity

Entrepreneurship education fosters innovation, creativity, and critical thinking—qualities often overlooked in traditional academic settings. Through practical projects, case studies, and problem-solving exercises, students learn how to transform ideas into viable business ventures. This nurtures a culture of innovation that drives technological advancement and economic diversification.

Enhancing Financial Literacy and Management Skills

A crucial component of entrepreneurship is financial literacy—understanding how money works, how to budget, how to design a saleable business plan, how to invest, and manage business finances. By making entrepreneurship compulsory, students will learn to make informed financial decisions, manage resources wisely, and cultivate fiscal discipline—skills that are valuable both in business and personal life. Most of these graduates, complete school hold iPhone 17 while they do not even have what it takes to start a business that will cost them less than Ghs 1,000.00.

Building Self-Confidence and Leadership

Entrepreneurship education develops self-confidence, initiative, and leadership qualities. Students trained to take calculated risks and manage challenges build resilience and belief in their abilities. These traits not only prepare them for business ownership but also for leadership roles in all sectors.

Contributing to National Economic Growth

Entrepreneurial graduates are engines of economic transformation. When they start and grow businesses, they generate jobs, pay taxes, and contribute to productivity and innovation. Making entrepreneurship education compulsory will help Ghana cultivate a generation of job creators, strengthening the nation’s GDP and fostering long-term economic resilience. As the numbers of graduate unemployment increase, this is a national security issue which needs any serious government attention.

Encouraging Problem-Solving and Community Development

Entrepreneurial education trains students to identify and solve real-world problems. Graduates equipped with these skills will address local challenges—such as waste management, agricultural productivity, technology access, and healthcare delivery—thus contributing to sustainable community development and inclusive growth.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

Many tertiary courses in Ghana remain heavily theoretical. Entrepreneurship introduces practical application into academia, allowing students to test their ideas, run small ventures, and experience the realities of the business world before graduation. This hands-on exposure bridges the gap between the classroom and the marketplace, making graduates more employable and adaptable.

Instilling a Culture of Resilience and Adaptability

In a fast-paced global economy, resilience and adaptability are key. Entrepreneurship education teaches students to embrace challenges, learn from failure, and adapt to change. Graduates who possess this mindset are better equipped to navigate uncertainty and turn obstacles into opportunities.

Lessons from Global Examples

Thanks to a few institutions that are making critical thinking and problem solving a key part of their institution and I would like to mention Ashesi University, they are the ones I know for now. Making entrepreneurship a compulsory course in all tertiary institutions in Ghana is not just about teaching business, it is about empowering the next generation with the mindset, skills, and confidence to transform ideas into opportunities. It will produce graduates who are innovative, self-reliant, and capable of driving Ghana’s economic and social progress.

The nation’s future will not be determined by the number of certificates awarded, but by the number of minds empowered to create, innovate, critical thinking, problem solver and lead change.

Let’s all look at the nations that are doing so well:

Singapore

Probably one of the best examples. They made entrepreneurship part of their education system from an early stage. Universities have incubators and innovation hubs linked directly to industries, and the government provides strong funding and mentorship for start-ups. It’s a model that connects education, innovation, and business seamlessly.

Israel

Often called the “Start-up Nation.” Despite its small size, it’s packed with entrepreneurs and high-tech companies. Military training there even fosters problem-solving and teamwork that translate into entrepreneurial skills.

Rwanda

In Africa, Rwanda is a shining light. The government actively supports youth entrepreneurship with funding, business incubation, and mentorship through programs like the National Employment Program. They’re deliberately using entrepreneurship as a tool for job creation and innovation.

India

Through initiatives like Startup India and Skill India, millions have been trained in trades and small business management. It’s transforming local economies and reducing unemployment.

South Korea

Another great example of using entrepreneurship and innovation to drive transformation. They invested heavily in education, research, and small business support—turning a war-torn country into a tech powerhouse within a generation.

Summary & How Ghana Can Use These Lessons

Across these cases you’ll see common themes: * Strong policy commitment to entrepreneurship → aligning education, skills, finance and business start-ups. * Tertiary education and training linked to business/industry (so entrepreneurship isn’t just theoretical). * Supporting ecosystems: mentorship, finance, incubation, business services, and removing regulatory/structural barriers. * Targeting youth and women and making sure entrepreneurship is seen as a respected and viable career option. * Aligning entrepreneurship with national development goals — job creation, innovation, export, value-added industries.

For Ghana, these insights reinforce what you’ve been advocating: making entrepreneurship education compulsory is important—but equally important is building the ecosystem to support graduates to turn ideas into businesses and connecting entrepreneurship curricula with real market/industry needs.

Eric is a Chartered Insurer, Financial & Investment Strategist, Climate Change Advocate, Student of Leadership.

Sudan: Schools Under Fire in Northeast Africa

Sudan: Schools Under Fire in Northeast Africa

3:19 PM   

The Devastation of Education in Sudan

Education in Sudan is no longer what it once was. The war that erupted in mid-April 2023 has transformed the country’s landscape, affecting its cities, people, and the very foundation of its future. Schools, which were once safe spaces for learning, have become places where children are recruited into armed conflict. This shift has left educators and families in despair.

More than two years into the conflict, field reports have revealed a troubling trend: child recruitment within educational institutions. In response, the Sudanese Teachers’ Committee has rejected what it calls the “war budget” proposed by the Ministry of Finance for 2026. According to the committee, the government’s decision to prioritize military spending over education and health is a clear violation of citizens' rights.

The committee criticized Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim's remarks about the new budget, stating that the focus on war efforts ignores the fundamental needs of the population. It emphasized that education and health are the pillars of any nation striving for progress and stability. By diverting resources to the war, the government is not only failing in its responsibilities but also jeopardizing the future of its citizens.

The statement from the committee highlighted the dire conditions faced by teachers and students. With schools collapsing and wages insufficient to meet basic needs, many educators are struggling to survive. The committee called for a reevaluation of the budget to ensure fair allocation to the education sector and improved salaries for teachers and public employees.

Learning Under Hardship

Access to public schools has become increasingly difficult, with some regions being disproportionately affected. Suleiman Mohamed Suleiman, a parent from East Darfur, shared his concerns about the challenges faced by students from his region. He reported that dozens of students from East Darfur were detained while trying to pursue university education, and thousands were barred from taking final exams due to their location in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces.

This situation has led to a significant drop in student morale, with many abandoning their studies. The war has not only destroyed physical structures but also disrupted the educational process. According to media reports, as the new school year begins, thousands of students are either displaced or dead, and many schools have been reduced to rubble or turned into shelters for displaced families.

A member of the Teachers’ Committee, who requested anonymity, stated that school attendance does not exceed 30%. Most students have either been displaced or joined the battlefronts. Classes are now largely concentrated in private schools in central Nyala, where the government’s delayed and insufficient salaries fail to meet the basic needs of teachers and their families.

Recruitment in Classrooms

In addition to the challenges of access and funding, there are alarming reports of schools being used as recruitment centers for children. The Sudanese National Observatory for Human Rights condemned the closure of schools and the suspension of classes in Nile River State, calling these actions a violation of human rights and international law.

Field reports indicate that security forces have turned several schools into recruitment and training camps, where children are coerced or lured through manipulative methods. These practices are considered war crimes under international humanitarian law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In response to the ongoing conflict, the Supreme Mobilisation Committee in Northern State declared a state of general mobilisation across all seven localities. This includes organizing popular resistance ranks, preparing battalions, and opening mobilisation and training centers. The order also mandates the reactivation and retraining of those previously given military instruction.

Calm Returns to al-Fashir

Despite the ongoing conflict, there are signs of hope. Calm has returned to the city of al-Fashir in North Darfur after the Establishment Coalition Forces took control. Markets and schools have reopened, and the streets have regained a sense of normalcy, according to field reports.

In this context, the Council of Ministers issued Decision No. (7) for the year 2025, expanding the mandate of the Independent National Committee investigating alleged violations in al-Fashir. The decision, based on specific constitutional and legal provisions, added new members to the committee, including representatives from forensic medicine, the Ministry of Interior, and military justice. This move aims to enhance the inclusivity and independence of the investigation.

The decision allows the Prime Minister to appoint additional members at any stage of the investigation and enables the committee to employ administrative staff to facilitate its work. The decision came into effect on November 4, 2025, marking a step toward accountability and justice in the region.

Dr. Ben Carson's Message to UVU: Prayer, Resiliency, and Charlie Kirk's Legacy

Dr. Ben Carson's Message to UVU: Prayer, Resiliency, and Charlie Kirk's Legacy

9:00 AM   

When Dr. Ben Carson was a young medical student, he struggled greatly on his first set of comprehensive exams. As a result, he was called in to meet with his academic counselor. The counselor reviewed Carson’s records and assured him that there were plenty of other ways to earn a living outside of medicine. Then, the counselor delivered a sobering conclusion: “You’re just not cut out to be a doctor.”

Devastated by this feedback, Carson rushed home, fell to his knees, and prayed for guidance. This moment of prayer inspired him to change his approach. He decided to spend less time in classroom lectures and instead focus on reading, research, and more reading and research.

Carson went on to defy his counselor’s opinion, graduating from the University of Michigan Medical School and starting a world-renowned career. At just 33 years old, he was appointed as the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Years later, he returned to the medical school where he had once struggled. This time, he was the commencement speaker. Carson recalled, “I was looking for that counselor because I was going to tell him, ‘You’re just not cut out to be a counselor.’” His words drew laughter from the hundreds in attendance at Utah Valley University’s Ragan Theater during a lecture hosted by the Herbert Institute for Public Policy.

Most people know Carson for his work outside of neurosurgery.

As a Republican, Carson ran for president in the 2016 election, ultimately losing his party’s nomination to the man who would later become his boss, President Donald Trump. After Trump’s victory, Carson was appointed as the 17th secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

A bestselling author, Carson continues to serve as a national adviser for nutrition, health, and housing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. His appearance at UVU comes at a time of pain and healing across the Orem campus. Less than two months ago, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking to an outdoor crowd of thousands.

“In the wake of the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, we couldn’t have timed (Carson’s) visit any better,” said Justin Jones, the Herbert Institute’s executive director, during his introduction of Carson. “Dr. Carson is a voice of reason in his personal, professional and political life.”

How ‘reasonable people’ find solutions

In a lecture touching on faith, prayer, resiliency, the promise of America, and finding common ground with others, Carson traced his own unexpected path from childhood poverty to renown and influence across multiple communities.

He began Wednesday by paying tribute to Kirk. “Charlie was an incredible person — and he was really the antidote to the radical leftism that is trying to fundamentally change our country. The radical left doesn’t mind so much that people speak about it, but they do mind when people listen. That was the issue with Charlie. People were listening — and he understood that the hearts and minds, particularly of our young people, were being indoctrinated, and he couldn’t just sit by and let that happen without giving the other side of the story.”

Carson added that you could sit the country’s most radical left-wing person across from the most radical right-wing person — and they would agree on 80% of their beliefs. “It’s that 20% that they don’t agree on that we’ve allowed to be massaged into hatred and division — and that’s what we don’t need to do. This is called the United States of America.”

Those who want to fundamentally change us recognize that we cannot be overcome militarily, but we can be overcome internally. And if they can create enough strife and hatred, it will be every bit as effective as a military conqueror.”

Carson challenged his audience Wednesday to “sit down at the table” and have discussions that start with that 80% agreement. Begin by establishing relationships. “And from there, we can talk about our differences and why we feel the way we do,” he said. “Reasonable people will be able to come up with a solution. But the thing I can tell you for certain that doesn’t work is the ‘My way or the highway’ philosophy, coming from either side.”

Overcoming a violent temper through prayer, scripture

Carson said he’s often asked why he’s so calm in an anger-fueled world. “I wasn’t always like that,” he answered. “There was a time when I got very angry.” As a poor youth growing up in Detroit, he battled a violent temper. He would lash out, even assaulting others.

By the time he was 14, he realized that his temper would ultimately place him in jail, reform school, or the grave. “And none of those things appealed to me.” So he locked himself in a bathroom, dropped to his knees, and began to pray — asking God to help him control his temper.

He located his family Bible, picked it up, began reading, and discovered Proverbs 16:32: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Young Carson determined then that his anger was fueled by selfishness. He decided to hand his troubles to God.

“When God fixes the problem, he doesn’t do a paint job. He fixes it from the inside. That’s what you have to understand. Develop that relationship with him — and let him work through you.”

Soon Carson found he was doing better in school even while discovering his lifelong love for reading. He devoured biographies of explorers, entrepreneurs, engineers, scientists, and surgeons. “I began to realize something very important: The person who has the most to do with what happens to you — is you. It’s not somebody else. And I stopped listening to all the naysayers and the people who were saying, ‘You can’t do this. You can’t do that. Society is against you.’ I just threw all that stuff in the garbage. I started reading everything I could get my hands on. And in the space of a year-and-a-half, I went from the bottom of the class to the top of the class.”

Carson: Great racial progress happening in the U.S.

Carson also recalled a time Wednesday when one of his public school teachers berated his white classmates because they were being outperformed by Benjamin — “a boy of color who comes from a broken family.” But the kids didn’t buy the teacher’s argument because, he said, “they knew that people are people.”

Carson then challenged notions that the country has made little racial progress. “That’s the wrong message,” he said, recalling a childhood visit to the Deep South and seeing “Whites Only” signs posted across town. But in the space of his own lifetime, Carson added, “you have black admirals and generals and CEOs of Fortune 500 companies and heads of foundations and university presidents and a president of the United States. Don’t tell me that things haven’t changed. They have changed substantially. That doesn’t mean that we don’t have more things to do, because there’s always more things to do. But let’s also look at the progress that has been made.”

Drawing upon Charlie Kirk’s convictions

Carson also spoke Wednesday of the lifelong lessons that performing brain surgery — including the first fully successful separation of Type-2 vertical craniopagus twins — have taught him about faith and trusting God. He’s learned that it’s easy to blame God when things go wrong and ask, “Why?” That, Carson added, is when faith comes in.

“(God) can see the beginning from the end. He can see how failure here sets you up for success there.”

The United States, said Carson, is unique because its founding document says “our rights come from our creator, and not from government.” “This was something that Charlie preached incessantly about — that we were different because of our belief system. It was a belief that you should love your neighbor, not cancel your neighbors if they disagree with you. This is something that we must get over as soon as possible.”

The nation’s strength, Carson concluded, lies in its unity. “If we understand that, it will be very difficult for China or anybody else to overcome us — and we will truly have one nation under God.”

A conversation with Dr. Ben Carson

Prior to his UVU speech Wednesday, Carson spoke to the Deseret News about a variety of subjects.

On speaking at UVU just weeks after Kirk’s murder:

Carson noted that he had been scheduled to speak at the school prior to Sept. 10. “It’s just a coincidence, I guess, that I happen to be here right after that happened, because I like to talk about unity, and I like to talk about the fact that our destination is within our own hands. We get to choose what kind of people we want to be and how we want to react to other people and to other situations. That will determine what happens to our country, and that will determine what happens to the world. This brings it into sharp focus very quickly.”

How pain and adversity can be catalysts for personal growth:

“Irritation causes the oyster to produce a pearl. If you go through life without the ups-and-downs, and particularly the downs, sometimes you don’t have the incentive or the opportunity to develop some very strong characteristics which prepare you for other things. If you take somebody who’s never had any adversity in their life, and you put them in a critical situation, they’re probably not going to do that well. But somebody who’s been through it is going to provide much greater leadership.”

Does the former HUD secretary see a pathway to the American Dream of home ownership?:

“There’s absolutely a pathway. The technology that has developed in home building has been incredible. … Some of the small homes and some of the things that had been converted into homes, they’re really quite ingenious, and they’re nice. The problem is not that we can’t produce these things economically. The problem is that we can’t get people to live in them because of regulations. We can probably produce a very nice unit for $150,000 but in Los Angeles — but by the time you get to adding all the regulations, it’s $600,000. It’s crazy.”

Carson also addressed the nation’s homeless crisis, saying most of the people living on the streets are dealing with addictions or mental illness. “If they got regular medications and care, they could be perfectly functional individuals.”

Thoughts on where “Making America Healthy” begins:

“It begins in the ground — with the way we treat the soil, with the kinds of pesticides and other agents that we subject the seedlings to, all the way until it gets to your plate and the whole series of processes that go on. And it begins by looking at data. The life expectancy in this country has been stabilized or going down over the last several years — whereas in other industrialized countries and in Europe, it’s going up. What’s the difference? Massive amounts of food processing that they don’t allow. Massive amount of artificial coloring, artificial flavoring and all kinds of things, as opposed to taking whole grains and whole foods that the Good Lord put in all those foods for our benefit. We leach them all out and put substitutes in. Of course, that’s not going to work out well for you.”

Mamdani Triumphs in New York Mayor Race 2025

Mamdani Triumphs in New York Mayor Race 2025

2:20 PM   

Zohran Mamdani's Victory in New York City Mayoral Race

Zohran Mamdani has emerged victorious in the New York City mayoral race, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. The 34-year-old democratic socialist has become a prominent figure in American politics, drawing attention from President Donald Trump. His win marks a significant shift in the political landscape of one of the largest cities in the United States.

Democrat Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayor race and will replace disgraced incumbent Eric Adams. US President Trump had urged New Yorkers to vote for Cuomo, his former foe. Dozens of other cities have also voted for new mayors. Spanberger becomes first female governor of Virginia, offering first test of Trump's second term. California voters approved a ballot measure to redraw the electoral map intended to counter gerrymandering in Texas.

Here are the latest headlines and analyses from New York City's mayoral election:

Gavin Newsom's Comments on California's Vote

California Governor Gavin Newsom lauded the state for approving the proposal to redraw its electoral boundaries, saying he was proud of the people. "We're proud of the work that the people of the state of California did tonight to send a powerful message to... the most historically unpopular president in modern history," Newsom said as the results came in. Speaking of the Democratic wins in NYC, New Jersey and Virginia, the leader said the Democratic Party was "in its ascendancy." "What a night for the Democratic Party. A party that's in its ascendancy. A party that's on its toes, no longer on its heels. From coast to coast, sea to shining sea," he said. Trump had earlier called the vote in California a "GIANT SCAM" and "RIGGED," without offering proof.

Mamdani's Message to Trump

Mamdani says NYC has shown 'how to defeat' Trump. Freshly off his win, New York City's Mayor elect Zohran Mamdani lauded his supporters for toppling a political dynasty, and took jabs at President Donald Trump. "If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him," Mamdani said in a victory speech. "In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light." "I will wake up each morning with a singular purpose: To make this city better for you than it was the day before," he promised. The newly elected mayor also addressed the US president directly. "Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!" Mamdani said. On the eve of the elections, Trump had extended his support to Independent candidate and former state governor Andrew Cuomo, threatening to cut federal funding to NYC if Mamdani won. While it remains to be seen if Trump acts on his threat, he reacted in a cryptic post on his Truth Social platform after Republicans lost in the mayoral race in New York City and the governors' ballots in New Jersey and Virginia. "'TRUMP WASN'T ON THE BALLOT, AND SHUTDOWN, WERE THE TWO REASONS THAT REPUBLICANS LOST ELECTIONS TONIGHT,' according to Pollsters," the President wrote. In another post, he wrote, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!"

California Voters Approve New US House Map

California voters have approved new congressional district boundaries, delivering a victory for Democrats in the state-by-state redistricting battle that will potentially decide which party wins control of the US House in 2026 and, with it, the power to stymie President Donald Trump's agenda. California Governor Gavin Newsom and his allies asked voters to approve a temporary re-drawing of electoral districts. The green light for Proposition 50 gives Democrats a shot at winning as many as five additional seats, just enough to blunt Texas Republicans' bid to redraw their own maps — at Trump's urging — to pick up five additional GOP seats. Voters approved Proposition 50 by a margin of two-to-one, early official results showed. The result is a major win for Newsom. Last month Newsom said he is considering a run for US president in 2028 and will make a decision after the 2026 midterm elections.

Celebrating the Promise of a Mamdani Mayoralty

The mood among Mamdani’s supporters at the Brooklyn Paramount remains jubilant - with cheers erupting intermittently even after the race was called some time ago. For those celebrating here, it marks a satisfying finish to a race that has energized and excited them. Inevitably, the conversation will eventually turn to whether Mayor Mamdani will be able to deliver on his ambitious promises. But it's a line of discussion that Nicholas Alban, a Mamdani supporter, says he finds irritating. "The fact that those are the things he wants and advocates for, tells me enough about him already," Alban said. "Yeah, it's gonna be hard to get them through legislatively, the fact that he's promising them, that signals to the people that he's on our side, that he cares about what's gonna make our lives better." To him and others here, tonight is about celebrating the promise of a Mamdani mayoralty, but the difficult compromises involved in running the US' biggest city will come soon enough.

Democrats Win New Jersey Governor's Vote

Democratic Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill won the race for the position of New Jersey's governor, marking another loss for Republicans on a day which is being seen as a litmus test for US President Donald Trump's popularity. Most US media outlets have called the vote in her favor. Sherrill is a former Navy pilot with strong national security credentials and has won against Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by Trump. Sherrill, along with Virginia's new governor Abigail Spanberger and NYC's Zohran Mamdani, focused on economic issues during the campaign, especially the rising cost of living.

Mamdani Wins Vote to Become New York's New Mayor

Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayoral race, capping a meteoric rise from a little-known state lawmaker to one of the country's most visible Democratic figures. The 34-year-old will become the first Muslim mayor of the largest city in the United States. He defeated Democratic former Governor Andrew Cuomo who ran as an independent after losing the nomination to Mamdani in the primary election. Cuomo also had the backing of Republican President Donald Trump. Mamdani's campaign and subsequent victory may have national implications in terms of the direction for the Democratic Party.

Spanberger Becomes First Female Governor of Virginia

Democrat Abigail Spanberger won the Virginia governor's race on Tuesday, defeating Republican Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears to give the Democrats a key win heading into the 2026 midterm elections. In winning, Spanberger also made history as the first woman ever to lead the state. Spanberger's win will flip partisan control of the governor's office when she succeeds outgoing Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin. Spanberger, 46, a former congresswoman and CIA case officer, won with a campaign focusing on economic issues, a strategy that may serve as a model for other Democrats in next year's elections as they try to break President Donald Trump's and Republicans' stranglehold in Washington.

What Does Mamdani's Democratic Socialism Mean?

Zohran Mamdani describes himself as a democratic socialist. But what does that mean? Galen Druke, the founder and host of the GD POLITICS podcast, told Articles of education that democratic socialism essentially means government-funded programs with more generous funding than Americans currently have. "For a European audience, the policies he is promoting are not that foreign. Government-provided childcare, for example," Druke said. The analyst added that he wouldn't describe democratic socialism as popular, though, because most Americans are negative about socialism and prefer capitalism. "But within the Democratic Party, the concept of democratic socialism is becoming popular," he said.

Will Mamdani Be Able to Implement His Policies?

Druke said that it is likely that Mamdani won't be able to implement some of his proposed policies. "The situation in New York City is complicated, as much of the funding is still controlled by New York state," he explained, adding that New York state is "not nearly as liberal, democratic, or progressive as New York City." According to Druke, Mamdani said he wants to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers, but the governor of New York state, Kathy Hochul, said she's not interested in doing that. The analyst is sure that the governor of New York and the next mayor of New York City will be able to come to some sort of compromise in certain areas, but this will depend partly on tonight's margin. "If he squeaks by with a narrow victory and it doesn't look like he's walking away with a blowout victory that some of the polls have suggested, I think Democrats will approach him much more tentatively than if he wins in a blowout," Druke said. "Whether or not he wins is a big question, but a manner in which he wins is also a big question," the analyst added.

Fact Check: Will Mamdani Legalize Sex Work?

Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani is considered the favorite in the New York City mayoral election. If he wins, it will be despite many distortions and false claims circulating about him. Many people, including the current New York Mayor and Democrat Eric Adams, have accused Mamdani of wanting to legalize or decriminalize sex work. Opponents have repeatedly raised the topic, warning that such policies could increase sex trafficking in New York City. But a Articles of education fact check found this claim to be misleading. You can read this and other Articles of education fact checks about the NYC mayoral race here.

Trump Threatens Legal Action Over California Redistricting Vote

US President Donald Trump has turned his attention to California, where voters will decide on a ballot measure to redraw the state's congressional map in favor of Democrats. The move was touted by Governor Gavin Newsom as a way to counteract gerrymandering in Texas, where Republicans redrew districts to give themselves five additional seats — with Trump's blessing. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump called the vote in California "a giant scam" and baselessly claimed that it was "rigged." He said postal votes in California would be "under very serious legal and criminal review," adding: "STAY TUNED!"

Mamdani and Cuomo Cast Their Ballots

Zohran Mamdani, the frontrunner in the New York City mayoral race, cast his ballot in Queens. "On this beautiful morning in Astoria, I cast my ballot for our city and our future," he said on X. Over the river in Manhattan, his main rival Andrew Cuomo also voted. "I think it's going to be a record [turnout]," he said afterwards. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa already cast his ballot during early voting.

California to Vote on Contentious Redistricting Map

Numerous other votes are underway in the US, where the first Tuesday in November is traditionally election day. Dozens of cities will elect mayors, New Jersey and Virginia are having state elections, and Californians will be voting on a controversial new map of voting districts that will essentially cut Republicans out of every district except one. Proposed by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who some say has his eye on a 2028 presidential run, the map was made to counter excessive gerrymandering in Republican-controlled states, particularly Texas. Earlier in 2025, the New York Times reported that Republican leaders in Texas had bowed to pressure from the Trump administration to cut the influence of Democrats in the state's major cities, resulting in an electoral map that will likely give Republicans five more congressional seats in the 2026 mid-term elections.

Dolma Impact Fund Secures Tax Exemption After Mauritius Pact Cancellation

Dolma Impact Fund Secures Tax Exemption After Mauritius Pact Cancellation

1:47 PM   

Background of the Controversial Tax Exemption

In Kathmandu, a recent decision by the interim government has sparked significant debate. The government granted a tax exemption to the Dolma Impact Fund, which channels its investments into Nepal through a "shell company" registered in Mauritius, a known tax haven. This move has drawn criticism due to the complex legal and financial implications involved.

The government's rationale for the exemption was based on the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) signed with Mauritius. However, this treaty has since been annulled, making it invalid for future transactions. Despite this, the government proceeded with the exemption, leading to questions about the clarity of Nepal's Income Tax Act, 2002.

Legal and Financial Implications

The ruling allows the company to pay less tax on its income in Nepal, providing financial benefits to the fund and facilitating the repatriation of dividends abroad. Dolma, which has invested in 14 Nepali companies, had long sought this exemption. The issue had been under discussion between the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and the Ministry of Finance for years, but successive governments had refrained from approving it after repeated warnings from tax officials.

A senior tax administrator noted that previous attempts to exempt Ncell's income from taxation ended in legal disputes. They warned that granting Dolma similar relief would create another dangerous precedent. The Ncell dispute, rooted in claims of double taxation, reached an international tribunal before Nepal's Supreme Court and the tribunal both ruled that Ncell's income was taxable in Nepal.

Despite this precedent, the finance ministry now chose to grant Dolma a tax waiver. Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal, who previously advocated for taxing Ncell, is now defending the exemption for Dolma. Before finalizing the decision, he sought opinions from retired officials of the Ministry of Finance and the IRD.

Those consulted reportedly reminded him that Dolma's investment entered Nepal through a Mauritius-based "shell company," making it a case similar to Ncell's. They warned that Dolma's income should be taxed under the Income Tax Act and that Nepal otherwise risked losing significant revenue.

Technical and Legal Objections

Despite these warnings, the finance ministry moved ahead and granted the exemption. To justify the decision, it sought legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General, though officials there were reportedly divided.

Nepal and Mauritius had signed a DTAA on August 3, 1999. Dolma, registered in Mauritius, claimed that under the treaty, it qualified for income tax exemption in Nepal. However, the treaty requires that a Mauritius-based company hold at least 50 percent ownership in the investing entity to be eligible for such benefits.

Documents obtained by the Post show that Mauritian investors hold only 0.75 percent ownership in the company that is channeling investment into Nepal, while 99.25 percent belongs to investors from outside Mauritius. Given that imbalance, officials at the Attorney General's Office concluded that the treaty could not serve as a legal basis for tax exemption.

"It is legally untenable for Nepal to offer tax relief under the Mauritius treaty when Mauritian ownership is negligible," said an official familiar with the internal discussions.

Broader Concerns and Reactions

Tax experts warn this could open floodgates for other offshore investors to demand similar exemptions, weakening Nepal's tax base. A senior tax consultant noted that the government seems eager to project a foreign investor-friendly image, but in doing so, it risks undermining the integrity of Nepal's tax system and losing substantial revenue.

Dolma Impact Fund's investors include institutions from Switzerland, Japan, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the United States—countries that do not have DTAAs with Nepal. Yet, Dolma has relied on the Nepal-Mauritius treaty to seek exemptions on dividends and capital gains from share sales.

A shell company like Dolma's Mauritius-based entity typically exists only on paper, registered in jurisdictions offering tax loopholes. Such firms lack real operations or assets and are often used to obscure the true origin of investments.

Ongoing Debate and Future Steps

The Income Tax Act 2002 is Nepal's principal tax legislation, according to former finance minister and tax expert Bidyadhar Mallik. He emphasized that the law overrides previous treaties unless they explicitly provide otherwise. Claiming exemption solely on a treaty basis is legally unsound.

Finance Minister Khanal acknowledged that the government had revoked the DTAA with Mauritius but defended the decision to grant Dolma relief under that same treaty. He stated that the DTAA has been annulled, so new investors won't qualify for exemption. But Dolma will enjoy the benefit for existing investments as the treaty remains valid for six months after formal notification of termination.

Khanal rejected allegations of external influence, calling the exemption a legitimate state obligation. He added that the government now plans to amend the Income Tax Act for clarity. "The new law will introduce provisions for DFIs, but not under DTAAs. Income earned abroad will be taxed there, and income earned in Nepal will be taxed here."

IRD Director General Madan Dahal confirmed that the department has already notified Dolma Impact Fund that it is exempt from income tax under government direction. "The treaty has been revoked. The exemption applies to previous investments, not new ones," he said.

Meanwhile, Shabda Gyawali, investment director at the Dolma Impact Fund Advisors, said they had yet to receive formal notice about the treaty's cancellation. "We have only heard informally about the government's decision," he said. "Dolma has not repatriated any money apart from dividends, so it has not benefited from the exemption yet."

Dolma has systematically pursued government agencies to secure tax relief. Following the DTAA, Dolma Impact Fund I wrote to CDS & Clearing on July 7, 2025, seeking tax exemption on the sale of shares in Makar Jitumaya Suri Hydropower Company. CDS sought IRD's advice, which then referred the matter to Nepse, the stock exchange, and the Finance Ministry to clarify whether capital gains tax would apply.

Under Nepal's laws, foreign investors are subject to a 25 percent capital gains tax on profits from the sale of shares. Based on this provision, Dolma would be liable to pay Rs294.46 million in capital gains tax. However, Dolma appears to have sought to sell these shares. And since the government has already decided to grant a tax exemption, the company will now be exempt from paying the stated amount.

Dahal, director general of the Department of Inland Revenue, confirmed that the department has already issued a letter stating that Dolma will not be liable to pay capital gains tax on the sale of its shares in Makar Jitumaya Suri Hydropower. "Whether viewed through the treaty or the Income Tax Act, Dolma is liable to pay tax," Mallik said. "Therefore, the government's decision to grant a tax exemption is not justified."

Furious Travelers Confront Endless Begging at Airports

Furious Travelers Confront Endless Begging at Airports

9:01 AM   

The Persistent Problem of Begging and Touting at Nigerian Airports

Begging and touting remain a persistent challenge at Nigerian airports, despite the efforts by the Federal Airports Authority to curb this issue. However, progress has faced significant resistance, especially from security agencies. This ongoing problem is not only embarrassing for the country but also tarnishes its image on the global stage.

A female Nigerian based in the United States, Mrs Charles, shared her disappointment after her British friend visited Nigeria in January 2025 for her mother’s burial. During their journey through the airport, several individuals approached them, asking for money. Mrs Charles, who had not converted her foreign currency to naira, repeatedly explained that she didn’t have local currency. Her friend found the situation amusing, which deeply hurt Mrs Charles. She emphasized that the behavior of airport staff, who are supposed to represent the country, is disgraceful and reflects poorly on Nigeria.

This incident highlights the broader issue of unprofessional conduct by airport staff, particularly security officials. For years, both industry stakeholders and travelers have expressed frustration over the manual checks conducted by security agencies at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. These checks are often criticized as outdated and intrusive, creating an environment where extortion can thrive.

In response to growing complaints, Senator Osita Izunaso from Imo West called on the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to caution airport officials against begging travelers for money. He described the behavior as a national embarrassment, undermining Nigeria’s image before foreign visitors and investors.

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, has repeatedly expressed her disdain for begging and touting within airports. Despite these concerns, the aviation industry, including the minister, has yet to respond to the senator's call for action.

In June 2024, Keyamo acknowledged that the government agencies involved in extortion and begging at airports do not fall directly under his ministry’s control. He emphasized the need for collaboration between ministries to address the issue. His comments came in response to a growing number of complaints from travelers about the persistent problem.

To combat the issue, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria began installing multi-million-dollar machines to scan passengers and luggage in April 2025. These advanced screening devices were intended to replace physical luggage inspections at Customs checkpoints. The new equipment includes six Orion 927DX units, a full-body scanner, and an itemiser, all equipped with cutting-edge imaging technology.

During a tour of the machines, the Director of Aviation Security at FAAN, Igbafe Afegbai, mentioned that the Customs table where bags were physically checked would be dismantled soon. The goal was to enhance security while improving passenger efficiency and overall airport operations.

However, challenges remain. A source close to the meeting between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and FAAN MD, Olubunmi Kuku, revealed legal bottlenecks regarding the mandates of security agencies. These agencies operate under different ministries, making coordination difficult. Additionally, the source noted that training and space for monitoring the machines were also issues.

Industry experts, such as retired Air Force officer Group Captain John Ojikutu, argue that bringing all security personnel under one command is essential for smooth airport operations. He suggested revisiting past strategies that proved effective in the 1990s.

Retired pilot Muhammed Badamasi also highlighted the endemic nature of begging in Nigeria. He recalled an incident where he scolded an immigration officer at Kano airport for requesting financial assistance. Badamasi emphasized the need for stricter oversight of staff to prevent such behavior.

Despite these efforts, communication with FAAN spokesperson Henry Agbebire remained unsuccessful. Calls and messages went unanswered, leaving many questions unanswered.

Challenges and Future Steps

• Coordination between ministries: The lack of unified command among security agencies hinders effective collaboration.
• Training and infrastructure: Adequate training and space for monitoring the new machines are necessary.
• Strict oversight: Managers must monitor staff closely and enforce consequences for misconduct.
• Public awareness: Raising awareness about the negative impact of begging and touting is crucial for long-term change.

15% Petrol Tariff: Nigerians to Pay N1tn Extra Annually

15% Petrol Tariff: Nigerians to Pay N1tn Extra Annually

9:01 AM   

Introduction to the 15% Import Tariff on Petrol

Nigerians are set to face an additional financial burden of approximately N973.6 billion annually due to a new 15% import tariff on Premium Motor Spirit (petrol). This decision, which has been approved by the Federal Government, is expected to increase fuel costs significantly for consumers across the country.

According to a report from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Nigeria imported an average of 26.75 million litres of petrol daily between January and September 2025. At a projected import tariff rate of N99.72 per litre, this would amount to about N2.67 billion in tariffs each day. Over the course of a year, this translates to a staggering N973.64 billion that will be added to the cost of fuel, ultimately borne by Nigerian households, transporters, and businesses.

The introduction of the 15% tariff comes as part of broader fiscal and energy reforms aimed at strengthening the naira-based oil economy, ensuring price stability, and promoting local refining capacity. The policy is designed to align import costs with domestic market realities and prevent duty-free imports from undercutting local refineries.

Policy Implementation and Industry Reactions

President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the 15% import tariff was conveyed through a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Damilotun Aderemi, following a proposal submitted by the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji. The proposal sought to apply a 15% duty on the cost, insurance, and freight value of imported petrol and diesel.

Adedeji explained that the measure is part of ongoing fiscal and energy reforms intended to strengthen the naira-based oil economy, ensure price stability, and accelerate the nation’s transition toward local refining capacity. He also advised the government to create a designated Federal Government revenue account managed by the Nigeria Revenue Service, with verification and clearance oversight by the NMDPRA.

The policy is not revenue-driven but corrective, introduced to align import costs with local production realities and prevent duty-free imports from undercutting domestic refineries that are just beginning to recover. Adedeji argued that the new tariff framework would discourage duty-free fuel imports from undercutting domestic producers and foster a fair and competitive downstream environment.

Dissenting Voices and Concerns

Despite the government’s rationale, dissenting voices from industry experts and petroleum marketers have continued to grow louder, with many questioning the timing and potential impact of the 15% import tariff. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) expressed reservations over the newly approved 15% import tariff on petrol and diesel, describing it as inconsistent with the spirit of market deregulation.

Chinedu Ukadike, National Publicity Secretary of IPMAN, stated that independent marketers do not oppose the President’s directive but faulted the policy’s design, which he argued undermines the principles of a free and competitive market. He urged the Federal Government to focus on incentivising local refineries rather than imposing tariffs on fuel imports, noting that such measures could distort competition and discourage private participation.

Ukadike warned that any artificial increase in fuel prices would further drive inflation, especially ahead of the Yuletide season when demand for petrol typically rises. He emphasized the need for the government to allow domestic refiners and importers to compete freely without government-induced restrictions.

Economic Implications and Market Dynamics

Jeremiah Olatide, CEO of PetroleumPrice.ng, described the newly approved 15% import tariff on petrol and diesel as a double-edged policy, one that could boost government revenue but also worsen the economic hardship faced by Nigerians. He noted that while the policy represents a strategic move to shore up revenue amid fiscal constraints, it comes at a difficult time for most Nigerians.

Olatide warned that a combination of the 15% import duty and a proposed five percent surcharge could further burden consumers and distort market stability. He urged the government to adopt policies that strengthen local refining and stabilise the upstream oil sector instead.

Support from Industry Stakeholders

Despite the concerns raised, some stakeholders have commended the government’s decision. The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) threw its weight behind the Federal Government’s newly introduced 15% import duty on refined petroleum products, describing it as a step toward reviving Nigeria’s industrial base and promoting economic self-sufficiency.

The CPPE argued that the measure represents a “strategic protectionist policy” designed to safeguard emerging domestic industries, including local refineries, while stimulating productivity, job creation, and foreign exchange savings. It stressed that protection alone would not guarantee industrial success and urged the government to complement the measure with fiscal incentives, low-cost financing, affordable and reliable energy supply, strategic infrastructure investment, and streamlined regulatory processes.

Conclusion

The implementation of the 15% import tariff on petrol marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s energy policy, with far-reaching implications for both the government and consumers. While the policy aims to support local refining and generate revenue, it has sparked debates about its impact on fuel prices, inflation, and market dynamics. As the policy takes effect, the focus will remain on how it balances the interests of domestic producers, importers, and consumers in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

DSS Updates on Owo Church Attack Prosecutions and Terror Suspects

DSS Updates on Owo Church Attack Prosecutions and Terror Suspects

8:43 AM   

Nigeria’s Security Agencies Continue Prosecution of Terrorism Suspects

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed that several high-profile terrorism suspects are currently facing trial across the country as part of efforts to strengthen national security and ensure accountability. These trials reflect the commitment of security agencies to bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice in line with the rule of law.

In a recent statement, the secret police disclosed that five men are being tried for their alleged involvement in the June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, where over 40 worshippers lost their lives. The agency also revealed that suspects linked to the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, which claimed dozens of lives, are currently undergoing trial.

According to the DSS Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, the ongoing prosecutions reflect the commitment of security agencies to bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice in line with the rule of law.

Trial of Terror Suspects in Abuja

The Federal High Court in Abuja will continue the trial of two wanted terror suspects: Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Abubakar Abba who were arrested during a high-risk operation in July. The duo, believed to be leaders of the ANSARU terrorist group, face a 32-count charge, including terrorism financing and illegal mining. Usman has already been sentenced to 15 years for one of the offences, while Abba pleaded not guilty.

The agency also confirmed that the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the 2011 United Nations building bombing in Abuja, is ongoing alongside four others. Al-Barnawi and his co-defendants are facing charges before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Details of the Trial

The DSS provided details of the trial, stating that Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Abba (aka Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri) were captured in a high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation in July by the DSS after several months of chasing them. The two are believed to be leaders of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate.

Usman, the self-styled Emir of ANSARU, allegedly coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria. He is also believed to have masterminded several high-profile kidnappings and robberies, the proceeds of which were used to finance terrorism over the years. Abba, Usman’s chief of staff and deputy, is alleged to have led the so-called “Mahmudawa” cell, which operated around the Kainji National Park, located on the border between the states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the Republic of Benin.

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in a statement issued on August 16, claimed Mamuda received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to have specialised in weapons handling and IED fabrication.

Usman and Abba are being tried on a 32-count terrorism charge, and on which they were arraigned in late August. One of the counts related to illegal mining, to which Usman pleaded guilty and has since been sentenced to 15 years. Abba pleaded not guilty to all the 32 counts.

Continued Trials of Other Terrorists

The DSS is also prosecuting another terror suspect, Khalid Al-Barnawi, accused of being the mastermind of the August 26, 2011, bombing of the United Nations Complex in Abuja, in which 20 people were killed and more than 70 others injured. Captured in 2016, Al Barnawi is facing trial along with four other terror suspects – Mohammed Bashir Saleh, Umar Mohammed Bello aka Datti, Mohammed Salisu, and Yakubu Nuhu aka Bello Maishayi.

The trial has been delayed for an extended period due to legal and procedural issues, including the suspects being occasionally brought to court without any counsel appearing for them. The DSS recently requested the court to grant accelerated hearing in the case, a request Justice Nwite granted.

On October 23 and 24, a trial-within-trial was conducted, during which videos of the defendants’ confessional statements were played in the courtroom.

Additional Charges and Arrests

On August 11, the DSS arraigned five men before a Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State. The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar. Over 40 people died in the attack, while over 100 individuals sustained injuries.

The five defendants were arraigned on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025, in which they are accused among others, of being members of Al Shabab terrorist group, with cell in Kogi State. The defendants are also alleged to have carried out the attack in furtherance of their religious ideology.

They pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them, following which Justice Nwite ordered that they be remanded in the custody of the prosecuting agency. In a ruling on September 10 the judge rejected their request for bail on the grounds that they were not only charged with offences that capital in nature, they are also accused of being members of a notorious terrorist organisation.

Ongoing Trials of Yelwata Massacre Suspects

Also undergoing trial are the suspects arrested in connection with the Yelwata massacre in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on June 13 2025. The attack, in which dozens of people were killed and 107 injured, drew worldwide condemnation. President Bola Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the state and demanded the arrest of the killers and attackers.

On June 24 2025, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, announced the arrest of 26 suspects in connection with the massacre. In August 2025, the DSS filed terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, against nine suspects. Two suspects, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe local government area of Nassarawa state, who are still at large, were charged with four counts of terrorism, among which is the concealment of information about the attacks, before they were staged in Abinsi and Yelwata villages between June 13th and 14th.

In total, the DSS filed six separate charges against the arrested suspects, who are now undergoing trial. They are Adamu and Abdullahi are Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina. The DSS also charged two other suspects, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede of Guma local government area of Benue State, with three counts for allegedly carrying out reprisal attack against the terror suspects involved in the Abinsi and Yelwata attacks.

Their trial, which is ongoing, before Justice Nwite’s court began with their arraignment in early September, with the defendants pleading not guilty.

Commitment to Justice

Director General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, said:

” The various arrests and trials of terrorism suspects showed that Nigeria’s security agencies have been diligent in dealing with the perpetrators of terror in the country. The men we are prosecuting are separate from the hundreds of suspects under the military’s protective custody, whose cases are being handled by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. In July last year, 125 of the terrorists were convicted.

“We shall continue to make the suspects accountable for disrupting the peace of our country, in consonance with the rule of law.”

President Tinubu and the Weight of Moral Duty

President Tinubu and the Weight of Moral Duty

8:01 AM   

The Legacy of Leadership and the Struggle for Justice

October 20, a day marked by protests and unrest, has come and gone. Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention, and justice is still pending. However, history has already recorded that a man named Omoyele Sowore took on the role of a catalyst, challenging the status quo. He pushed for Nnamdi Kanu’s release for medical treatment, ensuring he receives a fair trial in accordance with the law. His bold words stirred the capital city into chaos, forcing the police to act aggressively with tear gas and batons. Is Sowore a human being, a spirit, or a curse upon corrupt leaders? Or is he a prophet sent to restore the state and its operatives from moral decay?

William Gumedes, in his introductory remarks on Mandela’s “No Easy Walk to Freedom,” provided an insightful analysis of leadership and its evolution. He highlighted how those who once stood for justice can become its adversaries. Gumedes emphasized that leadership is not merely about holding power but about the quality of one’s actions, behavior, and vision.

In his words:
“The failure of most African liberation movements-turned-governments lies in the moral corruption of their leaders and parties, even if they have a just cause and impeccable struggle credentials. Suddenly finding themselves in positions of power, many leaders have succumbed to the temptations of wealth and authority, leading to a loss of moral compass. Mandela was an exception, maintaining his integrity despite the trappings of power.”

Gumedes also discussed democratic morality, which transcends cultural and religious boundaries. It involves ethical behavior, a sense of duty, and governance that serves the broader population rather than personal interests.

President Tinubu: A Leader in Transition

President Bola Tinubu, the 16th president of Nigeria, is often seen as a champion of democracy. His early life in southwestern Nigeria and education in the United States laid the foundation for his political career. He returned to Nigeria in the 1980s, working as an accountant before entering politics. His involvement in the pro-democracy National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) marked a significant turning point in his journey.

Tinubu played a crucial role in advocating for the recognition of Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Abiola as the legitimate winner of the June 12, 1993 election, which was annulled by the military government of Ibrahim Babangida. On the Senate floor, Tinubu condemned the annulment, calling it a coup d’état and urging Nigerians to reject injustice.

After General Sani Abacha seized power in 1993, Tinubu faced arrest, detention, and threats to his life. He went into exile, continuing his activism abroad as part of NADECO. Upon returning in 1998 after Abacha’s death, Tinubu became a key figure in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

The Shift in Ideals

Tinubu once stood for everything his current government opposes: protests, injustice, and the suppression of activists. What changed? Is it the corrupting influence of power or the shifting tides of time?

If Tinubu recognized years ago that the annulment of a credible election could spark unrest, why can’t he see that hunger, ethnic profiling, and resource inequality can lead to similar outcomes today? As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, is it fair that peaceful protesters are met with live bullets and tear gas?

It is instructive to note that Tinubu may now be facing the same challenges he once opposed. The part of him that once stood for justice is now affected by a "deadly disease" called "power and moral corruption," as described by Gumedes. This shift raises questions about the true nature of leadership and the responsibilities of those in power.

The Role of the People

Nigerians, too, seem to have fallen into this moral corruption. They have begun to support their oppressors, abandoning the fighters who once stood for justice. Despite Sowore’s efforts to liberate Nigeria, many focus more on his escape from tear gas than on his message. What does it take to be an activist? Is it the ability to endure live bullets and tear gas?

President Tinubu can reclaim his role as a leader of change. He has the potential to re-embrace the ideals he once championed, standing up against injustice and protecting the rights of all citizens.

Akingbondere, an author and law graduate, writes from Akure, Ondo State.

Benefits of 'Crony Capitalism'

Benefits of 'Crony Capitalism'

8:01 AM   

The Impact of Ad Valorem Tariff on Nigeria’s Petroleum Sector

The introduction of a 15% ad valorem tariff on imported petrol and diesel by the Nigerian government has sparked significant debate. This decision, which aims to support local refineries and stabilize fuel prices, is seen as a strategic move to foster economic growth and reduce dependency on foreign imports. However, it also raises questions about potential crony capitalism and the balance between protecting domestic industries and maintaining affordability for consumers.

Ad valorem tax, derived from the Latin phrase "ad valorem" meaning "according to value," is traditionally associated with real estate, where property values are assessed using a Best of Judgment template. While this method is not commonly applied in other sectors, its adoption for petroleum products signals a shift in policy that could have far-reaching implications.

Zach Adedeji, who proposed the idea to President Bola Tinubu, argues that the tariff will encourage the development of local refineries, ensure price stability, and strengthen the naira. This aligns with broader goals of economic self-sufficiency and resilience against global market fluctuations.

Aliko Dangote, CEO of the Dangote Group, has remained relatively quiet on the matter, but his Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Tony Chiejina, has publicly endorsed the government's decision. Chiejina highlighted the refinery's achievements, including daily production of 45 million litres of petrol and 25 million litres of diesel. He emphasized the refinery's commitment to efficient nationwide delivery and collaboration with regulatory agencies.

Experts suggest that the Dangote Refinery could save Nigeria over $12 billion annually in foreign exchange while creating thousands of jobs. This potential economic boost underscores the importance of supporting local industries through strategic policies like the ad valorem tariff.

The tariff is expected to protect domestic refineries from unfair competition, ensuring they can thrive in a competitive market. It also serves as a signal to investors that Nigeria is open to opportunities in the downstream petroleum sector. The Dangote Refinery’s plan to expand its processing capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day by 2028 further highlights the potential for growth and investment.

Bayo Ogunlesi, Chairman of Global Infrastructure Group, noted that Nigeria is a vast gas province, suggesting that the country has significant untapped resources. While he did not explicitly state plans to establish a refinery, his comments reflect the potential for future investments in the energy sector.

Dangote must maintain consistency in his commitments to avoid repeating the missteps of previous administrations. The failure of the NNPC to operate its refineries effectively has left many Nigerians skeptical. However, the Dangote Refinery’s successful operation in 2024 offers hope for a more reliable and efficient petroleum sector.

Despite delays in the planned initial public offering (IPO) of Dangote Refinery shares, the company continues to generate interest among institutional investors. The potential listing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited could bring much-needed transparency and accountability, ensuring that the company operates in the best interests of shareholders and the nation.

If the IPO proceeds, it could democratize ownership of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, allowing citizens to benefit from the country’s natural resources. This would mark a significant shift from the monopolistic practices of previous state-owned enterprises like the NNPC and NNPCL.

The success of the Dangote Refinery also raises questions about the need for similar strategies in other sectors. For instance, imposing tariffs on imported textiles could help revive Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry, which was a major employer before government policies led to its decline.

The fragility of the Nigerian textile industry was evident when Western economies withdrew their support following the turmoil under General Sani Abacha’s regime. This highlights the importance of stable governance and supportive policies for industrial growth.

Imposing tariffs on strategic sectors like textiles, food processing, and petroleum refining can protect domestic industries and promote long-term economic development. This approach mirrors the strategies used by countries like the United States, where tariffs have been employed to safeguard national interests.

In addition to tariffs, the government must address other critical areas such as electricity supply, steel production, railway expansion, and agricultural development. These sectors are essential for building a resilient and diversified economy.

By implementing comprehensive policies that support local industries and infrastructure, Nigeria can position itself for sustainable growth and economic independence. The ad valorem tariff on imported fuels is just one step in this broader strategy, but it represents a crucial move toward a more self-reliant and prosperous nation.