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ActionAid Nigeria Asks Government to Immediately Address Dire Realities Confronting Nigeria
ActionAid Nigeria Asks Government to Immediately Address Dire Realities Confronting Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has demanded immediate action to address the dire realities confronting the nation.
The recently released Human Development Report (HDR) paints a harrowing picture of global regression in human development, with Nigeria as one of those at the epicenter of this crisis. The latestz data from the report ranks Nigeria as low as 161 out of 193 countries in the world with HDI value as low at 0.548. This huge setback is more frightening as the recorded recovery of Human Development Index (HDI) values since the 2020–2021 decline is projected to be highly unequal.
A statement by ActionAid on Tuesday said “the impact of the findings in the report on the Nigerian populace cannot be overstated and as always, it is the most vulnerable who bear the brunt. Only half of the global population feels in control of their lives, and one-third feel unheard in their political system.
“The National, Multidimensional, Poverty Index is 0.257,, indicating that poor people in Nigeria experience just over one-quarter of all possible deprivations. This disenfranchisement disproportionately affects the marginalised communities of Nigeria, trapping them in cycles of poverty and despair.”,
The ActionAid Nigeria Country Director, Andrew Mamedu noted that: ‘‘According to the report, both Libya and South Africa boast relatively high HDI rankings, indicating significant achievements in human development. Libya’s wealth, predominantly derived from its substantial oil reserves, has contributed to its high HDI ranking, while South Africa’s diversified economy and robust infrastructure have propelled its development.
“Despite Nigeria’s vast natural resources and higher GDP compared to Libya and South Africa, its HDI remains comparatively low. This discrepancy underscores a critical issue: the failure of economic growth to translate effectively into improvements in the well-being of Nigerian citizens. While Nigeria’s high GDP figures may suggest economic prosperity, it evidently does not necessarily correlate with improvements in living standards, education, healthcare, or overall human development. In alignment with the federal government’s target to lift 50 million people out of poverty.”
He said ActionAid Nigeria has also set a goal to contribute to lifting 1,000,000 individuals out of poverty within the next five years, stating that achieving these ambitious goals require collaboration from all stakeholders, especially the federal and state governments. It will be disheartening to witness the efforts of civil society organisations in lifting individuals out of poverty being hindered by unfavourable policies and escalating corruption.
ActionAid Nigeria called upon the federal government to heed the urgent call to action outlined in the HDR, demanding immediate measures to address the crises unfolding in education, health, infrastructure, and social safety nets.
ActionAid Nigeria specifically demanded that the Federal Government must make concerted efforts to address poverty, unemployment, and income inequality.
The statement read that: “We demand for the implementation of comprehensive social protection programme to provide a safety net for the most vulnerable, as well as initiatives to create decent and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for youths and women. This includes having price controls to help stabilise prices and ensure that essential goods remain, accessible to all Nigerians. However, since corruption has been prevalent in the social protection programmes in the past, stringent measures must be put in place to combat corruption and ensure the effective delivery of support to those who need it most.
“To address the issue of Nigerians spending between $1.5 billion to $2 billion on health tourism, the Federal Government must prioritise healthcare access and affordability for all citizens. This entails increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure, training, and deploying more healthcare professionals, and ensuring the availability of essential medicines and services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Additionally, there is a need to prioritise the recruitment of healthcare workers to bolster the country’s healthcare system. By reversing the trend of high spending on health tourism and redirecting resources towards improving domestic healthcare services, Nigeria can provide better care for its citizens and reduce the need for medical tourism.
“Allocate sufficient resources to improve access to quality education for all, Nigerians. This includes investing in school infrastructure, providing adequate training and support for teachers, ensuring safe and secure schools for children, and implementing policies to ensure inclusive and equitable education forz every child, particularly girls and children with disability.
“Reduce the influence of international financial institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank, which often prioritise austerity measures over investments in social welfare.
“Provide a robust infrastructure network for economic growth and social development. ActionAid Nigeria calls for increased investment in infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, electricity, and water supply, to improve connectivity and enhance the quality of life for all Nigerians. This will also create opportunities for smallholder women farmers to access markets more easily and transport their goods to, buyers. Furthermore, the government should prioritise the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Thisy enhancement will not only improve farmers’ productivity but also reduce post-harvest losses, ultimately leading to improved livelihoods and economic empowerment for smallholder women.
- Implement comprehensive security reforms to address the alarming rise in security threats across Nigeria,, including kidnapping, displacement, ritualistic practices, banditry, and other forms of violence. The Federal Government must also strengthen law enforcement agencies, security infrastructure, and intelligence-gathering mechanisms to effectively combat criminal activities and to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, especially students, farmers and those in vulnerable and marginalised communities.”
Mamedu said that: “The Federal Government as the custodians of our nation’s future must act decisively and swiftly and failure to act will condemn millions of Nigerians to a future of perpetual suffering and despair. ActionAid Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to chart a path towards sustainable development and prosperity for all Nigerians.”
ActionAid Nigeria Asks Government to Immediately Address Dire Realities Confronting Nigeria
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, officially opened a newly constructed 48-classroom High Islamic College in Gubio Local Government Area of northern Borno.
The state-of-the-art institution is designed to offer a hybrid curriculum that integrates western education with traditional sangaya (Qur’anic) educational system.
Zulum had introduced an integrated policy framework which aims to provide students with a holistic education, grounding them in both religious principles and contemporary academic knowledge.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Zulum emphasised that the college is structured to ensure its graduates are not only deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship but are also fully equipped and qualified to pursue higher education in conventional institutions.
“Our focus has been on revitalising the system by preserving its rich tradition of Islamic scholarship while introducing modern subjects and vocational skills. We recognise the historic role of sangaya education in shaping moral values, discipline, and learning within our communities, while also equipping learners with essential skills in literacy, numeracy, science, technology, foundational English, and vocational training to enable them to function effectively and competitively in today’s society.”
“Through institutions operating under the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) approved curriculum, sangaya learners are now receiving a balanced education that integrates Islamic Studies with modern knowledge. These reforms have created clear pathways for graduates to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and, where they so desire, progress to higher institutions of learning to further develop their potential.”
The facility, in addition to the 48 classrooms, also features administrative blocks and a library. It is expected to serve hundreds of students from Gubio and surrounding communities, reducing the need for children to travel far from home for quality integrated education.
Zulum also commissioned the Gubio II Junior Day Secondary School, executed by Borno State Government. During a tour of the facilities, the Commissioner for Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, explained that classrooms are intended to provide safe and inclusive learning spaces, with a particular focus on improving access for adolescent girls.
… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA
Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has commissioned three projects executed by the Chairman of Gubio Local Government Area, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio.
The projects include Gubio Oil Mills, Zulum Ultramodern Clinic, and Mustapha Gubio Shopping Complex.
The occasions were attended by the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; and Members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zanah and Engr Bukar Talba.
Other dignitaries include the Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commissioners, special advisers and other senior government officials.
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
By: Yahaya Wakili
Governor Mai Mala Buni CON of Yobe State has charged the newly appointed chairman of the Yusufari local government area to consider security of lives and property as the priority of the administration.
Buni gave the warning today while swearing in Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the chairman of the council following the death of Alhaji Bah Abba Aji some few days ago.
According to Buni, the death of the chairman has created a vacuum that must be filled for continuity in governance, and this justifies the appointment of Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the new chairman of the Yusufari local government council.
He urged him to be a good team player for a result-oriented administration that would give members of the council and people of the local government area a sense of belonging.
Governor Buni also urged the new chairman to conduct government business transparently to promote accountability and probity as well as to channel government resources into areas of need that have a direct impact on the lives of the people.
He appealed to the people of the local government area to support the new chairman for a smooth and successful administration that would meet the needs of the people.
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has approved a substantial increase in rural allowances for health workers as part of efforts to address the shortage of medical personnel in remote communities across the state.
The governor announced the decision after inspecting several government projects in the northern axis of Borno. The inspection covered Government Secondary School, Gubio; two general hospitals; and ongoing housing developments in Gubio and Magumeri Local Government Areas.
Under the new arrangement, medical doctors posted to rural areas under the State Hospital Management Board will receive a rural allowance equivalent to their full basic salary, representing a 100 per cent increase. Nurses and midwives serving in similar locations will receive a 40 per cent increase in their rural allowances. The policy takes effect from January 1.
Governor Zulum said the move was informed by persistent manpower gaps in public health facilities, particularly in rural communities.
“We are facing serious challenges with human resources for health. Many of our hospitals do not have enough doctors and nurses,” he said. “Our findings show that a good number of medical professionals prefer working with international organisations because the pay is better. We must respond to this reality.”
According to the governor, the improved welfare package is expected to make rural postings more attractive and encourage more qualified personnel to work in general hospitals at the local government level.
He expressed optimism that the incentive would significantly improve healthcare delivery in villages and underserved areas, adding that health workers willing to take up rural postings should report to the State Hospital Management Board.
During his visit to Government Secondary School, Gubio, the governor also directed the immediate provision of essential facilities for the school’s laboratories and library to improve teaching and learning.
The inspection tour was attended by the Senator representing Borno North, Mohammed Tahir Monguno; members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zannah and Engr. Bukar Talba; and several commissioners and senior government officials, including those in charge of information, works and housing, local government affairs, and water resources.
The allowance increase forms part of the Zulum administration’s broader strategy to strengthen public service delivery and improve living conditions in rural communities across Borno State.
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
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