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IWD: ActionAid Alleges Tinubu’s Economic Policies Has Created Deeper Gender Inequality, Made More Women Vulnerable

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IWD: ActionAid Alleges Tinubu’s Economic Policies Has Created Deeper Gender Inequality, Made More Women Vulnerable

By: Michael Mike

ActionAid Nigeria has alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies has further deepened the dimensions of gender inequality in the country and placed more women at a vulnerable state.

ActionAid Country Director, Andrew Mamedu made the allegation at a press conference on Friday in Abuja to mark the International Women’s Day.

Mamedu who was represented at the conference by the Deputy Director, Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo said: “The current economic landscape, characterised by persistent inflation, exchange rate deterioration, and insecurity, demands urgent attention from all stakeholders, especially the government.

Mamedu said: “Over the past few months, the country has experienced a rapid increase in poverty, hardship and Insecurity which has led to a slowdown of the economic growth, with the national inflation rate hitting 29% in the first quarter of 2024. Projections by KPMG in December 2023 highlighted the adverse effects of policy reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market.

“These measures, though intended to spur economic growth have posed significant barriers to economic stability and have particularly impacted the lives of women and children across the nation.
President Tinubu’s reforms, while aiming for economic restructuring, have inadvertently hampered GDP growth, deviating from the World Bank’s initial forecast of 2.8% growth.

“This has further deepened the dimensions of gender inequality and placed more women at a vulnerable state.
Although the gains made by development partners in empowering women across Nigeria, the economic downturn has led to setbacks, with many women-owned businesses shutting down due to financial difficulties. This exacerbates existing gender disparities and injustices, as women are forced to bear the burden of providing for their families amidst dwindling purchasing power. The impact of these economic challenges extends beyond financial strain, affecting every aspect of life in our communities. From increased instances of domestic abuse to rising rates of malnutrition and preventable illnesses, the ripple effects are profound and far-reaching. It is at a moment like this that we seek collaboration in investing in more women and their businesses to increase the economic downturn.”

He said a survey carried out by ActionAid Nigeria in some communities to ascertain the weight of the current situation on women and children, showed that most respondents said that the current hardship has impacted 80% of their livelihood with 13% relating it to the high cost of living and 8% lamenting on the high cost of transportation. “These experiences have further deepened their fear for safety as 38% of respondent fear for their lives and that of their families as the rate of crime (Killing, stealing, and kidnapping) has increased. To remedy these situations most of the respondents has had to sleep hungry so their children can feed, some have taken extra job at night to augment what they do during the day, while other women have stopped their children from going to school and reduce other expense just to support feeding.

“Many churches have increased members as 38% of women said they have turn to God for hope and help.

“Moreover, Nigeria is grappling with an alarming unemployment rate of 35%, exacerbated by the soaring exchange rate and fuel prices. The economy is further challenged by opportunists exploiting the rise in commodity prices for personal gain.”

He noted that: “These economic hardships disproportionately affect women and children, who bear the brunt of the crisis.

“Today, we gather with heavy hearts, burdened by the weight of a society crumbling under the strain of hardship. Each passing day, we witness the harrowing consequences of our collective struggle. We have witnessed families torn apart by economic strife, homes shattered by violence, futures darkened by insecurity and lives lost by mental stress.

“But amidst this darkness, we find glimmers of resilience. Let the told, and untold stories from these women be a call to action, a reminder that we cannot afford to look away. We must stand together, united in our determination to build a brighter tomorrow.”

He said considering the grave economic challenges outlined and the devastating impact on the lives of Nigerian women and children, “ActionAid Nigeria urges the government to take immediate and decisive action. We call upon the government to: Implement Gender-Sensitive Policies: Integrate gender perspectives into policy formulation to address the unique challenges faced by women, men, and children, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.

“Revise Economic Reforms: Reassess recent policy reforms to mitigate their adverse effects on GDP growth, inflation rates, and the livelihoods of vulnerable populations, particularly women.

“Prioritize Social Protection: Allocate resources to provide social safety nets for women and children affected by poverty, insecurity, and unemployment, ensuring their access to essential services and support.

“Combat Inflation and Price Instability: Take concrete measures to stabilize prices of essential commodities, including food and transportation, to alleviate the burden on struggling families.

“Strengthen Security Measures: Enhance security operations to curb rising crime rates and insecurity, safeguarding the lives and well-being of all citizens, especially women and children.

“Support Women-Owned Enterprises: Provide targeted financial and technical assistance to women-owned businesses, enabling them to withstand economic shocks and contribute to national development.

“Foster Dialogue and Collaboration: Engage in inclusive dialogue with civil society organizations, development partners, and affected communities to co-create sustainable solutions and ensure accountability in addressing economic challenges.”

IWD: ActionAid Alleges Tinubu’s Economic Policies Has Created Deeper Gender Inequality, Made More Women Vulnerable

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Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala

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Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled an attempted infiltration by fighters of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) in Gamboru Ngala, a border town in northern Borno State.

Zagazola Makama learnt that the insurgents launched the attack on Saturday evening at about 6:15 p.m., attempting to infiltrate through the Flatari axis of Gamboru.

The sources said the troops swiftly responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to retreat after a brief exchange of gunfire.

“No adverse report was recorded during the encounter. The troops are currently on exploitation to track fleeing elements,” one of the sources said.

The situation in Gamboru Ngala has since returned to normal as residents commended the vigilance and prompt response of the military.

Gamboru Ngala, which shares a border with Cameroon, has been one of the strategic towns targeted by insurgents due to its proximity to transnational routes used for smuggling and movement of fighters.

The latest attack comes amid sustained military operations across the North-East aimed at dismantling remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists still operating in isolated enclaves.

Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala

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Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri

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Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri

By: Zagazola Makama

The Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col. Abdullahi Bello (rtd.), his orderly, Cpl. Adam Hussaini Gamawa, and his driver, have died in a fatal auto crash along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday, shortly after the trio departed Maiduguri, Borno State, where they had participated in the North-East Regional Consultation on the development of a national Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) framework.

Col. Bello and his team were said to have left Maiduguri cheerfully after the closing ceremony of the three-day consultation, which brought together delegates from Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba States.

According to sources , who was among the panelists at the consultation, Col. Bello actively participated in the session, contributing valuable insights on Gombe State’s role in hosting the Operation Safe Corridor facility.

“Col. Bello introduced himself as the third Commissioner since the ministry’s establishment in 2019. He spoke passionately about consolidating the foundation laid by his predecessors and reaffirmed his state’s commitment to the DDR process,” the sources recounted.

He described the late commissioner as a vibrant participant who engaged meaningfully during discussions and later shared perspectives on the unique security dynamics of different states.

“Our last conversation centered on the importance of integrating Disarmament and Demobilization into any dialogue with armed groups. I emphasized that without those key components, such dialogues amount to mere temporary ceasefires,” sources said.

Sources said the consultation ended successfully on Friday, with delegates departing for their respective states. He added that news of the accident broke later that evening, sending shockwaves through the participants and officials of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

“Col. Bello and his orderly lost their lives instantly, while the driver, who was critically injured, passed away on Saturday morning. It was heartbreaking these were people we had just interacted with, full of life and dedication,” sources said.

He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and the people of Gombe State, describing the tragedy as “a painful reminder of the fleeting nature of life.”

“May their souls rest in peace. Indeed, life is transient, and we are all living on borrowed time as mortals,” he added.

Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri

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Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation

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Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation

By: Our Reporter

Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reiterated his adminisration’s commitment to continue to invest hugely in the education sector and reposition the state for a more prosperous future.

The governor made the commitment at the graduation ceremony and official launch of the Book “Echoes of Memory” authored by the daughter of Borno State Deputy Governor, Aisha Umar Kadafur.

Aisha kadafur, a law graduate from Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, is an advocate of peace and a campaigner on girl-child education.

The 25-page book is a collection of 25 different peoms from diverse themes such as girl-child, morality, technology, mental heath among others.p

Professor Zulum congratulated the celebrant for the accomplishment, describing education as the most effective weapon that can transform an individual and the society.

“Today, we gather not only to rejoice over an academic milestone but to honour a young lady whose passion for learning and writing has produced a meaningful contribution to literature and personal development,” Zulum said.

“Government of Borno State under my leadership together with my deputy and other members of council shall do everything possible to transform the education sector and reposition the state to greater heights. We will, insha Allah, deliver to the good people of Borno State both concrete and quantum values,” he assured.

“Education remains the most powerful weapon through which we can transform individuals and societies. When a young person, especially one from our state, distinguishes themselves through both academic excellence and intellectual creativity, it rekindles our hope for a brighter future. Aisha’s journey is a reflection of what is possible when vision meets commitment.

“The book “Echoes of Memory” is not just a title, it is a voice, a voice of reflection, courage and inspiration. It mirrors the thoughts and experiences of a young mind determined to leave a positive mark on the world. Through her words, Aisha reminds us that stories have the power to heal, to inspire and to shape our collective understanding of life.

“I feel a deep sense of pride seeing one of our own youths achieving such an outstanding feat. It gives me renewed confidence that our investments in education, empowerment and human development are not in vain. It is our young people, like Aisha, who will carry forward the torch of progress, peace and prosperity for our dear Borno State and Nigeria at large.

Governor Babagana Zulum during the Book presentation re-echoed the cordial working relationship between himself and the deputy governor “looking at the relationship between myself and the deputy, I said I must be around, I felt in my absence there will be a missing link, which is the father of the family. indeed I am the father of Aisha,”.ll

“I want to confess to the gathering that my stay with the deputy governor in the last six years needs not to be overemphasized. I cherishe him and I think people from other parts of the country would come and emulate from Borno State how governors should work with their deputies,” Zulum stated.

The governor launched copies of the book for N50 million “On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I am donating the sum of N50 million for this book launch. May the Almighty Allah bless the celebrant for the good work that she has done,” he concluded.

Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation

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