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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
NSCDC Nabs Three Suspected Infrastructure Vandals in Abuja
By: Michael Mike
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory have arrested three young men suspected of vandalising public infrastructure in Abuja.
The suspects were intercepted near the National Stadium area close to the National Hospital along Constitution Avenue during intensified patrols carried out as part of yuletide security operations.
According to the NSCDC, the men were allegedly caught in possession of damaged road safety installations, which they were believed to be preparing to transport from the area. Recovered items included several road crash barriers and a heavy-duty hammer.
The suspects were identified as Abdulsalam Aminu, 25, Mustapha Sale, 26, and Suleiman Sani, 19, and they are currently in custody while investigations is said to continue.
Speaking on the development, the FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, said the arrests were part of deliberate efforts by the command to protect critical public assets, particularly during festive periods when vandalism and theft often spike.
He lamented that public infrastructure provided to enhance safety and improve living conditions is frequently targeted by criminals for personal gain, describing such acts as a major threat to public welfare.
Odumosu stressed that the corps would remain relentless in safeguarding government facilities including roads, bridges, crash barriers, power installations and other vital infrastructure across the territory.
The commandant warned individuals involved in vandalism to desist or risk prosecution, noting that the agency would enforce the law without compromise. He also urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to help curb the destruction of public assets in the FCT.
NSCDC Nabs Three Suspected Infrastructure Vandals in Abuja
Education Gets Highest Share as Zulum Presents N890.33bn 2026 Budget to Borno Assembly
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has presented an N890.33 billion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, with the education sector receiving the largest allocation.
The budget, titled “Budget of Sustained Recovery and Growth,” places strong emphasis on capital development, with over 61 per cent of the total expenditure devoted to capital projects, while recurrent spending accounts for about 39 per cent.p
Addressing members of the House of Assembly, Zulum disclosed that the proposal comprises N353.77 billion for recurrent expenditure and N536.56 billion for capital expenditure, stressing that the spending plan is designed to deepen recovery efforts and accelerate development in the state.
According to the governor, the budget reflects the administration’s commitment to rebuilding infrastructure, revitalising the economy and improving the quality of life for residents following years of insurgency.
The sectoral breakdown of allocations showed that education tops the list with N135.43 billion. The funds are expected to support the construction and rehabilitation of schools, teacher recruitment, and scholarship programmes across the state.
The works and housing sector received N94.27 billion to fund road construction, bridge projects and housing development, while the health sector was allocated N66.41 billion for the completion of hospitals, procurement of medical equipment and supply of essential drugs.
Other key allocations include N58.71 billion for the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement to facilitate the return and resettlement of displaced persons, N44.95 billion for agriculture to boost food production, and N21.35 billion for water resources projects. Funds were also set aside for information and internal security to strengthen peace and stability.
On the revenue side, the state expects N317.69 billion from the Federation Account, N44.30 billion from internally generated revenue, and N417.23 billion from capital receipts, including grants and development funds.
In his response, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, assured the governor that the legislature would give the budget proposal prompt and thorough consideration to ensure it aligns with the state’s development priorities before passage.
Education Gets Highest Share as Zulum Presents N890.33bn 2026 Budget to Borno Assembly
VP Kashim Shettima Expected at Second Kanem Borno cultural summit in Maiduguri
By: Bodunrin Kayode
VP, Kashim Shettima is expected to flag off the second Bi-annual Kanem–Borno Cultural Summit 2026 taking place in Maiduguri from 1st–2nd January, 2026.
Announcing this recently, chairman of the Borno Emirate concerned citizens forum Zanna Boguma said that about 1000 other visitors from all over the world will join the VP in gracing the occasion.
He said the 1000 delegates are also expected from across the country and the world especially from several countries where kanuri people reside are coming for the summit.
“Ministers, top political figures and National Assembly members of Borno in other states will be coming including our kiths and kins in lafia and Kanam on the plateau.
” Lots of traditional stuffs will be showcased to announce that kanem Borno never fell in the hands of its enemies as is being portrayed in some quarters.
“There will be displays of cultural artifacts to entertain the visitors. Prayers will be held on Friday of that week for the success of the occasion. However, consistent prayers must continue to ensure that there is stability during the period.
In a recent world new conference, the chairman of the committee Zanna Hassan Buguma maintained that the theme for this year’s summit is ” Echoes of Resilience: Harnessing Culture for Peace and Regional Stability”
“We are pleased to formally announce the 2nd edition of the Bi-annual Kanem–Bornu Cultural Summit 2026, scheduled to hold on 1st and 2nd January, in Maiduguri, Borno State, under the theme “Echoes of Resilience: Harnessing Culture for Peace and Regional Stability.
“This Summit will serve as a global homecoming, bringing together sons and daughters of Kanem–Bornu from across Nigeria and around the world, including members of the diaspora, scholars, professionals, traditional leaders, cultural custodians, youth and women. It is a deliberate effort to reconnect our people to their shared heritage and mobilize collective wisdom, resources, and networks for the peace and stability of our region.
“Building on the success of the maiden edition, the 2nd Bi-annual Kanem–Bornu Cultural Summit seeks to deepen conversations around identity, resilience, and responsibility. At a time when the Lake Chad Basin continues to face security, humanitarian, and socio-economic challenges, this Summit positions culture as a unifying force and a strategic tool for peacebuilding, reconciliation, and regional cooperation and integration.
“The Kanem–Bornu civilization remains one of Africa’s most enduring legacies, renowned for governance, scholarship, trade, diplomacy, and coexistence across ethnic and cultural lines. For centuries, it nurtured systems that emphasized justice, tolerance, consultation, and social harmony. The Summit draws inspiration from this legacy to address contemporary challenges, reminding us that solutions to today’s crises can be found in the wisdom of our past.
” The Summit will explore how traditional institutions, indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, cultural education, arts, language, and heritage preservation can be harnessed to counter violence, promote healing, and strengthen regional stability.
“Over the two days, the Summit will feature keynote addresses, high-level panel discussions, diaspora dialogues, youth and women forums, cultural and religious exhibitions, traditional performances, and policy-oriented sessions. Special attention will be given to diaspora engagement, knowledge exchange, investment in cultural industries, and pathways for youth participation in peace and development initiatives.
“Maiduguri, our host city, is both symbolic and strategic. It stands as a historic centre of Kanem–Bornu civilization and a contemporary symbol of courage and resilience. Hosting this Summit in Maiduguri underscores a powerful message: that the people of Kanem–Bornu, wherever they reside, remain united in purpose and committed to rebuilding, healing, and progress.” Said Dr Hassan.
VP Kashim Shettima Expected at Second Kanem Borno cultural summit in Maiduguri
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