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ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform

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ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform

By: Michael Mike

ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the latest hike in pump price of petroleum products, demanding immediate action from the government on economic reform

The Non Governmental Organisation said increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 was never enough to bring economic succour

ActionAid, in a statement on Wednesday signed by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu asked that: “The Federal Government must prioritise the welfare of Nigerian Citizens over revenue generation and provide a comprehensive plan to protect vulnerable citizens and support small businesses within 48 hours. This plan must include measures to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on the poor and vulnerable.”

Mamedu lamented that: “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the removal of fuel subsidies has led to a harsh economic reality for many Nigerians. Despite efforts to recover, the Federal Government’s decision to allow fuel prices to surge again has worsened the situation, leading to a ripple effect on the economy.

“In May 2023, just before President Tinubu’s inauguration, petrol prices were already high at N185 per litre, causing widespread discontent among Nigerians due to the accompanying high cost of goods. However, on his first day in office, fuel prices skyrocketed to N500 per litre, leading to a sharp surge in the prices of essential commodities.

“Since then, fuel prices have continued to rise steadily. By August 2023, it reached N626.70 and continued to fluctuate, surmounting N668.3 in January 2024 and N770.54 in July 2024. As of September 2024, it has increased again to a staggering N897 per litre, which greatly worsens the situation for many Nigerians.”

He noted that: “Clearly, Nigeria’s fuel pricing is heavily influenced by the dollar-to-naira exchange rate due to the country’s reliance on imported fuel, which is denominated in US dollars (USD). Consequently, a depreciation of the naira against the dollar leads to higher fuel import costs, resulting in increased prices at the pump as well.

“This direct correlation between exchange rates and fuel prices makes Nigeria’s fuel pricing vulnerable to exchange rate fluctuations. Any changes in the dollar-to-naira rate will have a ripple effect on fuel import costs, ultimately impacting the prices consumers pay at the pump, and highlighting the need for a more stable exchange rate to mitigate the volatility in fuel pricing.”

He added that: “It is one thing to fix an impending problem of inflation in the economy, and it is another thing to provide temporary solutions to keep the mouths of Nigerians shut. Although the minimum wage has increased from N30,000 to N70,000, it fails to address the root causes of inflation and does little to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, who continue to bear the brunt of skyrocketing commodity prices, particularly fuel costs. We need a comprehensive and sustainable solution, not just a quick fix to silence the masses.”

On the latest increase, Mamedu said: “ActionAid Nigeria strongly condemns this development, which will push millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty. We demand transparency in fuel pricing, including a clear breakdown of costs and revenues associated with fuel imports, refining, and distribution. The Federal Government must provide a detailed explanation of the fuel pricing mechanism to ensure accountability and trust.

“To address the root causes of this crisis, we also demand the establishment of an independent committee to monitor fuel pricing and ensure transparency. This committee must include representatives from civil society, the private sector, and government agencies. Additionally, the Federal Government must invest in Nigerian refineries and provide targeted support to vulnerable citizens and small businesses affected by fuel price increases.”

He said: “Concurrently, the Federal Government must implement a comprehensive economic reform plan as soon as possible, including measures to diversify the economy, increase foreign exchange earnings, and stabilize the naira. This plan should include specific targets and timelines for reducing inflation, improving foreign investment, and promoting local production. We demand transparency and regular progress updates to ensure accountability and build trust with the citizens.”

Mamedu warned that: “ActionAid Nigeria will hold the government accountable for their actions and demand a better future for all Nigerians. We will take all necessary actions to ensure that the government is held accountable to Nigerian citizens.”

ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform

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ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

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ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

Adamawa High Court IX, fixed Nov. 27th for ruling and judgment on suit filed by Shehu Yohanna and Zubairu Ishaq challenging their removal from office as Chairman Secretary, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Adamawa chapter.

The presiding judge, Justice Benjamin Manji, announced this at the end of the hearing on Thursday in Yola.

Earlier the plaintiff complained that their four-year tenure was illegally terminated before expiration.

Kambile who challenged: Amb.Omar Suleiman, Chairman Coalition Adamawa stakeholders; Sadiq Dasin, Chairman Transition Electoral/Congress Commitee; Malam Saidu Komsiri, State Interim Chairman and his Led Executive Committee members.

Others are: Babachir Lawan, National Vice Chairman North East; Sen. David Mark, ADC National Chairman and his Led National Executive Committee Members; National Working Committee and the ADC.

Yakubu Philemon (SAN) pleaded for the Court to allow Kambile to complete their four year tenure best on what the constitution of the party says.

Dr Emem Ibrahim-Effiong, counsel defendants argued that the matter is an internal party affair which the court should not interfere with.

After hearing both sides, Justice Manji subsequently adjourned the matter to Thursday November 27, for ruling and judgment as earlier agreed by all counsels.

ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

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Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

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Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede has trained no fewer than 78 retired military veterans in North-East on vocational skills.

The veterans were drawn from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe Taraba and Yobe States.

The theme is “Empowering Veterans Through Skills Acquisition for Capacity Building and Sustainability,”

Speaking at the three-day training in Yola on Wednesday, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, the CDS represented by Director, Veterans Affairs Division, Defence Headquarters, Maj. Gen. Oluwafemi Williams said, the training is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the well-being of the veterans.

He said, the initiative is for the veterans across six geopolitical zones to help themselves and their families due to the economic situation in the country.

“With the caliber of facilitators selected to deliver this training, I am confident that the participants will be well prepared to take full advantage of the existence of the poverty alleviation programme under my stewardship.

“And with alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu”, he said.

He urged them to take advantage of the training and improve on their livelihood and to also network with other colleagues.

According to him, subsequently the beneficiaries would be empowered with starter parks.

Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, commend the Defence Headquarters for organising the training for the veterans across the six geopolitical zones.

Fintiri, presented by the Chief of Staff Government House also commended the veterans for their sacrifice in serving the nation, and urged them to take advantage of the training to succeed in future.

Prof. Augustine Danwe of Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola one of the resource persons said, the training would expose the veterans to a gold smile in Agricultural production.

According to him, with the discipline in the beneficiaries by the military when they implement the skills into practice they would succeed in their respective states.

He urged the veterans to apply the skills into practice for maximum benefit.

Sgt. Sule Gagare retired veteran and a beneficiary from Bauchi thanked and appreciated the CDS for empowering them with the skills and prayed for all the promises made to be fulfilled.

The training focuses on poultry products, snail farming, livestock management, fishery, animal husbandry, integrated irrigation farming system and Modern crops farming techniques.

Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

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COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

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COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

The rugged landscape of Operation FASA YEMMA’s area of responsibility came alive with renewed optimism on Wednesday as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, paid his maiden operational visit, engaging frontline troops and assuring them of sustained support, welfare and enhanced joint operations.

The visit, which brought together senior commanders from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, marked a significant boost to the morale of troops deployed across one of Nigeria’s most challenging security theatres.

Addressing the soldiers, Shaibu praised their bravery and resilience, acknowledging the vastness and complexity of the area covered by the operation.

“I am here on my maiden operational visit to Operation FASA YEMMA. The area of responsibility is very large, and we understand what that means for all of you operating under difficult circumstances,” he said.

The COAS disclosed that he had received a thorough brief from the Theatre Commander, detailing operational challenges and requirements.

“I have just listened to a detailed brief from the Theatre Commander, which outlines the challenges the troops are facing, and we are tackling those challenges headlong,” he assured.

He also highlighted the presence of senior representatives from sister services, including the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Navy, reinforcing the commitment to joint inter-service collaboration.

“I am here with the Chief of Air Staff, ably represented by AVM Maddy, the Chief of Operation. Together, we are listening to the challenges of both the air and land components. The representative of the Chief of Naval Staff is also here, listening to the concerns of our Special Boat Service personnel. I assure you all that these issues will be addressed going forward,” he said.

Shaibu emphasized professionalism, discipline and the enduring values of the military as essential tools for confronting the region’s complex security threats.

“I want to encourage you to continue to uphold the core values of the Army and the Armed Forces so that we can tackle the myriad challenges confronting Operation FASA YEMMA,” he said.

In a tone that blended firmness with empathy, the COAS reminded troops of the significance of their service.

“As soldiers, you must understand that the job you are doing is a very noble one. Your presence here has ensured that most people go about their daily duties without fear. For that, we appreciate you,” he said.

He assured them that issues affecting their welfare would remain a priority of the Army leadership.

“Your welfare issues will be given top priority to ensure that you discharge your duties properly. These challenges are transient. Remain resolute, determined, and carry out your duties professionally. The Nigerian people appreciate what you are doing,” he added.

As he prepared to conclude his address, Shaibu opened the floor for direct engagement with the troops.

The visit is seen as part of the Army leadership’s broader effort to strengthen troop confidence, improve operational synergy, and reinvigorate the fight against banditry and terrorism in the North-West.

With vast forest corridors, fluid enemy movements and difficult terrain, Operation FASA YEMMA has remained a critical component of national security efforts.

COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

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