National News
ActionAid Study Shows Nigeria, Five Other African Countries Have Workers Struggling for Essentials
ActionAid Study Shows Nigeria, Five Other African Countries Have Workers Struggling for Essentials
By: Michael Mike
A new study by ActionAid has revealed that deep cuts to public spending in education and health across six African countries including Nigeria have seen workers struggling to afford essentials like food and resulted in overcrowded classrooms and failing healthcare.
Published on Tuesday, the Human Cost of Public Sector Cuts in Africa surveyed over 600 healthcare workers, teachers and community members in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, and Nigeria. The study highlights that teachers’ salaries have plummeted by between 10% and 50% over the past 5 years, with an alarming 97% of health workers reporting insufficient wages for basic needs like rent, food and household expenses.
The study painted a bleak picture of failing public systems – especially for women and girls. It showed how governments’ inadequate investments in education and health sectors have left workers struggling to make ends meet and communities failing to access quality public services.
ActionAid said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is to blame for its advice to governments to cut spending on public services in order to service foreign debts. With the accelerating debt crisis in the Global South, over three-quarters of all low-income countries in the world are spending more on debt servicing than they spend
on health.
The Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria Andrew Mamedu, said: “The debt crisis and the IMF’s insistence on cuts to public services in favour of foreign debt repayments have severely hindered investments in healthcare and education across Africa. For example, in 2024,
Nigeria allocated only 4% of its national revenue to health, while a staggering 20.1% went toward repaying foreign debt.
“This is not only absurd but unsustainable in the long run. The time for change is now. Governments must shift from unsustainable economic policies based on cuts and debt repayments to those that prioritise human
rights. The lives of millions depend on it.”
Governance Specialist, ActionAid Nigeria, Judith Gbagidi, said: “Behind every budget cut is a woman frontline worker picking up the pieces by teaching without materials,
healing without medicine, and caring without rest. The IMF’s austerity playbook is not just a financial strategy; it’s a human rights failure. We urgently need to mobilise political will to prioritise people over
payments and restore dignity to Africa’s public workforce.”
The research highlights how insufficient budgets in the healthcare system have led to chronic shortages and a decline in service quality. Community members in all six countries revealed deep dissatisfaction with the public healthcare system and noted rising costs of services, shortage of healthcare workers, and poor infrastructure.
What’s also clear is the disproportionate impact on women, as Maria, a healthcare worker from Kenya, explained:
“In the past month, I have witnessed four women giving birth at home due to unaffordable hospital fees. The community is forced to seek vaccines and immunisation in private hospitals since they are not
available in public hospitals. Our [local] health services are limited in terms of catering for pregnant and lactating women, as a result, most women must seek services in Mombasa, which is expensive.”
Medicines for malaria are now ten times more expensive at private facilities. Long travel distances, rising fees and a dwindling medical workforce are leaving millions without healthcare as Marym, a community member from Muyakela Kebele, Ethiopia, reveals: “Now malaria is an epidemic in our area [because medication is now beyond the reach of many]. Five years ago, we could buy [antimalarial medication] for 50 birrs (USD 0.4), but now it costs more than 500 birr (USD 4) in private health centres.”
Rose, a community member from Taita Taveta in Kenya, said: “We are referred for diagnosis tests 40 km away from the [local] dispensary. Doctor’s consultation has [doubled] at the referral hospital, making it difficult for the community to access services.”
In education, the toll is equally severe. Budget cuts have resulted in failing public education systems crippled by rising costs, a dire shortage of learning materials and overcrowded classrooms. Some 87% of teachers said they lacked basic classroom materials, with 73% shelling out for equipment themselves. Meanwhile, teachers’ incomes are falling: 84% of teachers surveyed reported a drop in real income of between 10 and 50% over the
past five years. “I now believe teaching is the least valued profession. With over 200 students in my class and inadequate
teaching and learning materials, delivering quality education is nearly impossible. Monitoring individual performance and supporting struggling students has become a daunting task,” said Maluwa, a primary
school teacher in Malawi’s Rumphi District.
Four of the six countries covered by the research are spending less than the recommended one-fifth of the
national budget on education and exceeds the ratio of one teacher per 30 pupils, as reported by the UNESCO Institute for Statistics.
Kasor, a teacher from Liberia, with 80 pupils in his class, said: “The ministry doesn’t provide teaching aids or textbooks. I feel stressed and hopeless. We need better infrastructure and resources to cope with these changes.” On a personal level, due to reduced income, Kasor said, “I often struggle to put enough food on the table.”
The research shows that the consequences of these policies are multi-faceted and far-reaching. Workers are stretched beyond their limits and communities’ fundamental rights to healthcare and education are severely impacted. Governments and the IMF must work to reverse this damaging trend of cuts to essential services
while prioritising debt repayment.
the Global Economic Justice Lead at ActionAid International, Roos Saalbrink, said: “The debt crisis and drive for austerity is amplified for countries in the Global South and low-income countries, especially due to an unfair global economic system held in place by outdated institutions, such
as the IMF.
“This means the burden of debt falls on those most marginalised – once again. This must end. She added: “It’s crucial that governments agree on new international rules on global economic governance that shift important decisions away from the IMF and towards democratic institutions, such as the United Nations, to shape a fair and inclusive global economy for all.”
ActionAid called on education and health ministries to work with finance ministries to allocate sufficient resources to meet global benchmarks, ensure fair remuneration for workers, and improve infrastructure to
deliver quality services.
It said additionally, governments should explore fair and just ways of raising income, such as progressive taxation, rather than imposing spending cuts to essential public services.
ActionAid Study Shows Nigeria, Five Other African Countries Have Workers Struggling for Essentials
Sokoto donates 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles to security agencies
By: Zagazola Makama
The Christopher Gwabin Musa has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s current security challenges will soon be overcome, urging Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
Musa made the remarks on Wednesday in Sokoto during the inauguration of 62 armoured vehicles and 320 motorcycles procured by the Sokoto State Government for deployment by various security agencies operating in the state.
The security assets, valued at about N27.7 billion, are expected to enhance the operational capabilities of security agencies in tackling banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
The defence chief stressed the need for security personnel to remain resolute in confronting criminal elements, while urging Nigerians to regard security as a collective responsibility through timely intelligence sharing and community support.
He described Sokoto as his home state, recalling that he was born and raised there, and commended the efforts of the state government in sustaining peace despite recent security challenges in some parts of the state.
According to him, the administration of Ahmed Aliyu has consistently supported security agencies with critical logistics, noting that the latest intervention would further boost troop morale and operational effectiveness.
Musa appealed to other state governments and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Sokoto Government by supporting security agencies with logistics and other resources needed to combat insecurity.
He also said that security remains a key priority under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability across the country.
Earlier, Gov. Ahmed Aliyu said the newly acquired armoured vehicles and motorcycles would be deployed to identified flashpoints to strengthen ongoing operations against bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements.
The governor said the intervention was aimed at improving the operational efficiency of security agencies and ensuring the protection of lives and property across the state.
He disclosed that his administration had previously spent more than N36.27 billion on similar logistics support for the Armed Forces and other security agencies operating in Sokoto State.
Aliyu further revealed that the Sokoto State House of Assembly was considering legislation that would prescribe sanctions for informants aiding criminal groups, similar to those imposed on bandits.
He reaffirmed that security remains a top priority under his administration’s Nine-Point Smart Agenda and commended the Federal Government, the Armed Forces, other security agencies and stakeholders for their continued efforts in addressing insecurity.
The governor also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his sustained support towards improving the nation’s security architecture.
In his remarks, the Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by the Wazirin Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu, commended the governor for his sustained investment in security, describing the intervention as a significant contribution to the protection of lives and property in the state.
Sokoto donates 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles to security agencies
Nigeria Mourns 21 Killed in China Landslide, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has extended its condolences to the Government and people of China following the devastating landslide that struck Tanchang County in Gansu Province, killing at least 21 people and leaving several others affected, as Abuja reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership between the two countries.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, described the disaster as a tragic incident and said Nigeria stood in solidarity with China as rescue teams continued efforts to reach victims and support affected communities.
The landslide occurred on Tuesday in Tanchang County, a mountainous area in northwestern China’s Gansu Province, where heavy rainfall triggered the collapse of earth and debris, burying homes and disrupting transportation. Emergency responders were immediately deployed to search for survivors, evacuate residents and provide humanitarian assistance.
Expressing the Federal Government’s sympathy, Ebienfa said Nigeria shared in China’s grief over the lives lost.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses deep condolences to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China following the tragic landslide that struck Tanchang County in Gansu Province on Tuesday, July 7, 2026,” he said.
He added: “Nigeria mourns the loss of lives in this disaster, which has claimed at least 21 lives, with others affected amid the rescue operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured, and all those who have lost loved ones or property in this unfortunate incident.”
The spokesperson also commended the swift response mounted by the Chinese authorities, praising emergency personnel for their efforts to rescue survivors and provide relief to victims.
“Nigeria commends the swift response of the Chinese authorities and rescue teams in their efforts to save lives and provide relief to those impacted,” he stated.
Beyond the immediate humanitarian message, Nigeria used the occasion to reaffirm the strength of its diplomatic and economic relationship with China, one of its largest trading partners and a key investor in critical infrastructure projects across the country.
Over the years, China has played a significant role in financing and constructing major Nigerian infrastructure, including rail lines, airport terminals, highways and power projects. The two countries have also deepened cooperation in trade, investment, security, agriculture, technology and human capital development under the framework of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Reflecting on these longstanding ties, Ebienfa said: “Nigeria and China share a long-standing strategic partnership built on mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation. Nigeria stands in solidarity with China during this difficult time, and we are confident in the resilience of the Chinese people and government as they work towards recovery and rehabilitation in the affected areas.”
He also offered prayers for those affected by the disaster.
“We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed, the speedy recovery of the injured, and strength and comfort for the bereaved families,” he said.
The latest tragedy underscores the vulnerability of many mountainous regions in China to landslides and flash floods, particularly during the annual rainy season. Chinese authorities have in recent years strengthened early warning systems, disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms, but extreme weather events linked to intense rainfall continue to pose significant risks to lives and infrastructure.
Nigeria’s condolence message joins those from countries around the world expressing solidarity with China as rescue operations continue and recovery efforts begin in the affected communities.
Nigeria Mourns 21 Killed in China Landslide, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
National News
President Tinubu Flags Off the Construction of Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala, Bama–Banki International Road Projects
President Tinubu Flags Off the Construction of Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala, Bama–Banki International Road Projects
By: Bodunrin Kayode
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday flagged off the construction of the 49.55-kilometre Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Road and the 49.15-kilometre Bama–Banki Road, describing the strategic highways as critical to economic growth, regional integration, and national security.
The two road projects, regarded as economic lifelines of North-East Nigeria, serves as key gateways to neighbouring African countries, which will bolster cross-border trade, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, and strengthen security operations in a region recovering from over a decade of insurgency.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held along the Maiduguri–Gamboru Ngala Road, where President Tinubu was represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima.
The Vice President said the rehabilitation of the roads would improve connectivity and deliver on the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development across the country.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has made infrastructure a central priority. This is what Mr. President promised Nigerians, and I’m here today to affirm our readiness to redeem the promise and to convey his goodwill and gratitude for the support you have shown us,” Shettima said.
“The Bama–Banki Corridor carries special strategic weight. It is a top route of agriculture, movement, and national security. The Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Road belongs to the same vision of reconnecting communities and restoring economic confidence across Borno State.”
The President also commended Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, for prioritising infrastructure and maintaining a strong partnership with the Federal Government.
“The partnership between the Federal Government and Borno State shows what becomes possible when public institutions are united by the urgency of service. Certainly, Your Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, you are one of the best-performing governors in the federation,” Tinubu stated.
Governor Zulum expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the road projects and other critical interventions in Borno State.
“The successful commencement of this project reflects the strong partnership between the Federal Government and the Borno State Government. We deeply appreciate and remain eternally grateful to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to the development, peace, and security of the North East and Nigeria as a whole.
“Borno State Government recognizes that infrastructure remains a critical foundation for development. Since assuming office, our administration has prioritized the rehabilitation and construction of roads, schools, hospitals, water facilities, and other critical infrastructure as part of our commitment to improving the lives of our citizens,” he added.
Governor Zulum also pledged the state’s political support for President Tinubu in the next presidential election.
“I want to assure the President and indeed the Vice President that, Insha Allah, come January 2027, the people of Borno State will overwhelmingly vote him into office.”
The Governor equally praised his representative Vice President Shettima for his sustained support towards the reconstruction and development of Borno State.
“Your Excellency, your personal interest in the reconstruction and development of our state continues to inspire confidence among our people. We sincerely appreciate your leadership and steadfast commitment.” said Zulum.
Zulum also acknowledged the humanitarian contributions of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, particularly through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, during the state’s recovery from insurgency and the 2024 flood disaster.
He recalled the construction of Dangote Village, the donation of ₦1.5 billion to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), ₦1 billion to the Borno State Government following the 2024 flood, and the distribution of relief materials to internally displaced persons.
“Through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, thousands of displaced persons received food and non-food items. Essentially, in 2017, he donated 106 trucks of food to IDPs.
“Alhaji Aliko Dangote has also donated ₦1.5 billion to NEMA to support flood victims in Borno State in the year 2024.”
Governor Zulum assured that the road projects would be closely monitored to ensure value for money and strict compliance with quality standards. He also appealed to the Minister of Works to grant the Borno State Government a waiver to regulate the activities of heavy-duty truck drivers using the roads intermittently.
Earlier, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed that the projects would be executed in two phases and expressed confidence that construction would be completed within six months.
The ceremony was attended by the Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur; APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Ali Dalori; senators; members of the House of Representatives; the Shehu of Borno, represented by the Shehu of Dikwa; ministers; members of the Borno State House of Assembly; APC leaders; the Secretary to the State Government; the Head of Service; the Acting Chief of Staff; commissioners; heads of government agencies; and other dignitaries.
President Tinubu Flags Off the Construction of Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala, Bama–Banki International Road Projects
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