News
Edo 2024: Time to End the Hopeless and Helpless Technocratic and MoU Mirage,
Edo 2024: Time to End the Hopeless and Helpless Technocratic and MoU Mirage,
By Augustine Osayande
As the Edo 2024 elections approach, there is a growing call to move beyond the current technocratic leadership and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that have dominated the developmental space of the state in the past eight years. Many critics, including this writer, have long argued that the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki failed to deliver meaningful progress for the state. The so-called technocratic and MoU approach has become a mirage, offering promises of development that remain unfulfilled for the people of Edo State.
As Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure draws to a close, the people of Edo State are left with a pressing question: what were the tangible outcomes of the numerous MoUs signed during his administration?
One notable MoU was with China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) for the development of the Gelegele Seaport and other transport infrastructure. This ambitious project promised to be a game-changer for Edo’s economy by enhancing the state’s connectivity and boosting trade. Yet, the public remains eager to see whether these promises have translated into visible progress or if they remain unfulfilled aspirations.
Similarly, the partnership with Sunora Foods was heralded as a transformative initiative aimed at attracting $100 million in foreign direct investment and creating 25,000 jobs. This MoU raised h4opes for significant agro-economic development. However, it is crucial for Edo citizens to assess whether these projections have materialized into real opportunities for employment and economic growth in the state.
Another significant MoU was signed with the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation and the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) to improve healthcare delivery. Healthcare is a critical area of public concern, and the impact of this agreement on the quality and accessibility of healthcare services in Edo is something that residents will undoubtedly scrutinize.
The MoU with Oando Clean Energy Limited for the deployment of electric buses to enhance the state’s transportation system was a bold step towards sustainable development. Yet, with Obaseki’s tenure ending, there is a lingering question of whether these green initiatives have taken root or if they remain at the planning stage.
In the agricultural sector, the MoU with Heifer International Ltd and Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd aimed to boost the poultry value chain in Edo. This initiative was expected to enhance food security and create jobs, but how far these goals have been met remains to be seen.
Edo State’s partnership with SIEMENS for economic development, and the tripartite deal involving the Chinese Government and Yongxing Steel Company to bolster vocational and technical education, were both touted as forward-thinking initiatives designed to strengthen the state’s human capital and industrial base. However, Edo citizens are still waiting to see the concrete benefits of these partnerships.
The agreement with Radisson Hotel Group for a N19.6 billion world-class hotel project promised to enhance the state’s hospitality industry and attract tourism. The potential for economic growth through such investments is immense, but residents are eager to know if these projects are on track or have stalled.
Furthermore, the MoU with EHA Clinics to improve primary healthcare delivery and the partnership with LAPO Microfinance Bank for the disbursement of N300 million to MSMEs across the 18 Local Government Areas were both aimed at uplifting the socio-economic standards of the state. As Obaseki’s administration concludes, the effectiveness and reach of these initiatives will likely be a key measure of his legacy.
Ultimately, while Governor Obaseki’s administration has signed numerous MoUs with the promise of transformative change across various sectors, the real test lies in the execution and visible outcomes of these agreements. As Edo State looks towards the future, its citizens deserve a transparent assessment of these initiatives to understand their true impact on the state’s development.
With few days to the end of Obaseki’s eight-year administration, it is crystal clear that this model has not effectively addressed the fundamental challenges facing the state, such as poverty, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, and poor public services. The technocratic governance has resulted in policies that are disconnected from the realities of everyday citizens, creating a sense of hopelessness and helplessness among the populace.
Another prominent characteristic of the outgoing Obaseki administration has been the reluctance of many Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Advisers (SAs) to recognize that good governance and quality leadership are not bound by political party lines. Instead of embracing constructive criticism as a tool for improvement, these officials often resort to dismissive behavior, targeting those who offer guidance or critique.
This approach fails to acknowledge a fundamental truth: effective governance benefits everyone, not just members of a specific political party. When a government prioritizes the delivery of democratic dividends—such as improved infrastructure, better public services, robust economic growth, and enhanced living standards—the positive impact is felt across the entire population, transcending party affiliations.
Good governance is about serving the public interest and meeting the needs of the people, regardless of their political leanings. By fostering an environment where all feedback is valued and constructive dialogue is encouraged, leaders can drive forward policies and initiatives that truly serve the common good. It is essential for future administrations to recognize that inclusive leadership and accountability are key pillars of sustainable development, and that true success in governance is measured by the tangible improvements in the lives of all citizens, not just those who support a particular political ideology.
The call is now for a shift towards leadership that prioritizes inclusivity, grassroots engagement, and a people-centered approach, where decisions are made with direct input from the communities they affect. This change is seen as essential to break free from the cycle of unmet promises and to pave the way for a more hopeful and prosperous future for Edo State. Look
As Edo State gears up for the 2024 elections, the debate continues over the best path forward—whether to maintain the status quo or to embrace a new direction that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of its citizens. The call to end the “hopeless and helpless technocratic mirage” is a rallying cry for those seeking a leadership that not only speaks of change but delivers it in tangible, impactful ways.
Augustine Osayande PhD contributed this piece from Abuja via austinelande@yahoo.com
Edo 2024: Time to End the Hopeless and Helpless Technocratic and MoU Mirage,
Nigerian Embassy in Kuwait Issues Safety Advisory to Citizens Amid Regional Tensions
By: Michael Mike
The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the State of Kuwait has urged Nigerian nationals in Kuwait and Bahrain to remain calm, vigilant, and compliant with host government ldirectives in light of prevailing regional developments.
In a circular dated March 1, 2026, and referenced NKT/GA/C/004/Vol. I, the Embassy — which holds concurrent accreditation to the Kingdom of Bahrain — advised citizens to strictly observe safety guidelines and official advisories issued by authorities in both countries.
The mission encouraged Nigerians to stay informed by monitoring credible local news outlets and official government announcements in Kuwait and Bahrain. It assured the community that it is closely tracking the situation and maintaining communication with leaders of Nigerian groups and associations in both countries.
To enhance real-time communication, the Embassy announced the creation of a dedicated mobile and WhatsApp line to ensure active engagement with nationals.
For further inquiries or assistance, Nigerians were advised to contact the Embassy via email at nigeriakuwait@yahoo.com or through the designated telephone and WhatsApp numbers provided by the mission.
The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of all Nigerian citizens in its jurisdiction and pledged to continue providing timely updates as the situation evolves.
Nigerian Embassy in Kuwait Issues Safety Advisory to Citizens Amid Regional Tensions
Gov. Fintiri’s defection will boost APC’s chances of winning in 2027 – Dr Girei
Dr Salihu Bakari Girei, Gubernatorial aspirant under the platform All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027 described the defection of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri to the ruling party as a welcome development for the APC in the state.
Girei said that his defection is coming at the right time to galvanise the party’s victory in 2027 General Elections at the national and sub national level.
Dr Girei who is one of the founding fathers of the APC in the state disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Yola.
He said, Fintiri joined APC at the right time considering his outstanding performance in the state which he said was in line with President Tinubu’s transformation agenda.
He added that the defection would add value to the APC family and also help deliver dividends of democracy to the ordinary people that are yearning for good governance as well as to fast-track development.
He said Fintiri has performed credibly well, in line with his 10-point agenda for the state to justify the people’s trust in his leadership and administration.
Dr Girei further lauded President Bola Tinubu for his effort and strategy in addressing Nigeria’s challenges for and ensuring rapid development.
He said, “President Tinubu is very strategic in addressing Nigeria’s challenges and many now understood that Mr President meant well for this country and has turned the fortune of the country around for good.”
According to him, records have shown that the dollar has crashed, the economy stabilized, security improved, food is affordable and issues of strikes are no more among others.
Bakari-Girei said, all these are factors that naturally attract people joining the APC across the country for more development in the country.
He queried those saying that President Tinubu is turning the country into a one-party system, recalling that the PDP once had 30 governors and no one complained.
“Today people have decided to join APC because of many factors initiated by the President Tinubu administration that naturally attracted people to join APC and support Mr President.”
He pointed to President Tinubu’s history as governor of Lagos, where opposition platforms continued to function, as evidence of his commitment to multi-party democracy.
He also appreciated the foresight of the President for appointing Malam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser who has invested much in APC in the state.
He further urged unity and understanding of all APC stakeholders in the state for the progress and success of the party at all levels.
Gov. Fintiri’s defection will boost APC’s chances of winning in 2027 – Dr Girei
News
Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS Moves to Boost Enforcement of Judgments with High-Level Talks in Republic of Guinea
Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS Moves to Boost Enforcement of Judgments with High-Level Talks in Republic of Guinea
By: Michael Mike
The Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS will hold a high-level bilateral meeting in the Republic of Guinea from March 2 to 4, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen the enforcement of its judgments across Member States.
The three-day engagement, organised in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States, is expected to bring together the Court’s delegation, Guinea’s Competent National Authority (CNA), senior government officials, and representatives of civil society to address persistent challenges in implementing the Court’s rulings.
At the heart of the meeting is the push to close the gap between judicial decisions and their execution at the national level. While the ECOWAS Court continues to deliver landmark judgments on human rights, governance, and community law, enforcement remains a critical concern in several jurisdictions. The Guinea dialogue is aimed at building a more effective, coordinated, and transparent enforcement framework.
Discussions will focus on practical strategies to improve compliance rates, streamline procedures, and strengthen collaboration between national institutions and the regional court. Participants are expected to review existing bottlenecks, share best practices, and identify sustainable solutions that can enhance uniformity in enforcement mechanisms across the sub-region.
The programme will include a dedicated forum examining the current status of enforcement of the Court’s judgments in Guinea, alongside presentations on the Court’s enforcement processes and the national legal landscape. Civil society organisations will also engage directly with the Court in a bilateral dialogue designed to promote accountability and inclusive participation.
Beyond the technical sessions, the Court’s delegation will pay courtesy visits to key government figures, including the Minister in charge of ECOWAS Affairs, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Finance, the President of the Supreme Court, and the Speaker of Parliament. Meetings are also scheduled with the Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission and the President of the Bar Association.
The delegation will be led by the President of the Court, Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, and will include Vice-President Sengu Mohamed Koroma, Honourable Justice Gberi-Bè Ouattara, as well as directors and other officials.
Similar bilateral meetings have previously taken place in the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, reflecting the Court’s broader strategy to institutionalise cooperation and reinforce the authority of its judgments throughout West Africa.
As ECOWAS marks five decades of regional integration, the Guinea engagement signals a renewed determination to ensure that the decisions of its judicial arm are not only pronounced but fully implemented—strengthening the rule of law and deepening trust in regional justice systems.
Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS Moves to Boost Enforcement of Judgments with High-Level Talks in Republic of Guinea
Nigerian Embassy in Kuwait Issues Safety Advisory to Citizens Amid Regional Tensions
Gov. Fintiri’s defection will boost APC’s chances of winning in 2027 – Dr Girei
Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS Moves to Boost Enforcement of Judgments with High-Level Talks in Republic of Guinea
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