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UBEC; Collaborating National, Multinationals to Improve Basic Education. BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF.

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The desire to impact and improve modest Basic Education cannot be overemphasized, hence the move by the Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC to involve both national and multinational organizations which included Ministries, Departments and Agencies became timely .

This was at the backdrop of the commission’s synergy with the anti graft agencies like the ICPC, EFCC, code of conduct bureau to protect any unforseen development regarding its new moves to boost the funding base of Basic Education in Nigeria.

The new moves will not only be restricted to National and Multinationals which included super government agencies, but the organized private sector that had contributed alot to both the infrastructure , economic and social development as well as rejuvenation of the country.

The multi billion tax credit grant by Dangote, BUA and other Multinationals on roads including their investments in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through distribution of foods and other items to mitigate the economic hardships and hunger to Nigerians was enough impetus to support our early Education, since our children are the leaders of tomorrow.

The pursuit for amendment of the over two decades UBEC act to attract more funding was not only meant to support Basic Education, but improve on it to meeting the demands of the 21st century in line with its roadmap and SDGs.

The recent moves by the management of the agency under the leadership of Dr Hamid Bobboyi as the Executive Secretary was the right step in the right direction to the Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan led committee of Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board NCDMB, capable of attracting funding from the agency and other Multinationals to funding Basic Education in the country.

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Aside the NCDMB, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, the Nigeria Midstream Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority,NMDPRA, the Nigeria Upstream, Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, Nigeria Ports Authority, NPA, Nigeria Maritime Management and Safety Agency, NIMASA, and National Pension Commission, PENCOM among many other high profile government revenue generating agencies are expected not to be left out in the quest to attract funding to Basic Education, as applicable in both developing and developed countries.

This was occasioned by paucity of funds , myriads of government commitment in the areas of funding other sectors, as well as the need to reposition Basic Education and it’s operations in Nigeria.

Many of these agencies have idle funds lying down unutilized, but been siphoned into personal and private pockets , therefore the new moves by UBEC management was patriotic, desiring to achieve the goals of funding Basic Education.

Impressed by the visit and request for collaboration, the chairperson, Senate committee on content development appreciated the move by UBEC and promised to roll out actions that will not only attract Basic Education funding, but a permanent solution to the dearth of Basic Education in Nigeria.

The Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan led committee while attending the three day seminar organized by the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board NCDMB called for collaboration among government Ministries, Departments and Agencies to access its funds for the development of basic infrastructure like the Basic Education and by extension Education in Nigeria.

The moves by the Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC when consolidated will reduce to the barest minimum the scourge of inadequate funding and the need for more funds to access Basic Education among many of its programs in the country.

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With these development, there is need for a legislation by government conscripting some of its high profile agencies into funding Basic Education in Nigeria.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.

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Opinion

How Faleke’s Selfless Political Doctrine Is Winning Friends For Asiwaju By Charles Obeli  (Opinion)

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Let me begin with a honest confession: I was, until recently, an ardent Labour Party (LP) fanatic, one who was deeply convinced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led-administration was steering Nigeria in the wrong direction. Just like many others, I had been caught in the web of emotions, a take of opposition narratives that portrayed Tinubu’s policies as detrimental to Nigerians.

However, I would say my perception is taking a dramatic turn after an unplanned encounter I had with Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, a third-term federal legislator representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

It all happened on one of my routine flights to Abuja.  I found myself seated next to Hon. Faleke, a man I had heard, and read about, seen in media , but never met in person. Out of my sheer curiosity, I introduced myself, and struck up a conversation. Along the conversation, I wasted no time in expressing my concerns about the trajectory of President Tinubu’s administration, and lamenting the pain caused by some of his policies. Faleke listened intently, his expression betraying neither a sense of annoyance nor defensiveness. Instead, he smiled; a knowing, almost sheepish smile that piqued my curiosity.

However, against my presumed expectation of a show of reluctancy to engage me, what followed was a masterpiece in governance, economic prudence, and nation building. With the patience of a seasoned diplomat, Faleke thoroughly dissected my arguments and opinions one after the other, revealing the layers of policy decisions that I had erroneously dismissed as mere political rhetoric. He wasn’t just explaining to me, he was enlightening me. By the time our flight touched down, I had undergone an intellectual rebirth, realizing that I had been grossly misinformed.

Among the most important issues I brought up was the removal of fuel subsidies, a move I had strongly opposed. Similar to many Nigerians, I thought the action was harsh and callous, causing the general public to endure unheard-of misery. Faleke, on the other hand, calmly explained the nuances of the subsidy scheme. He described how fuel subsidies have been a conduit-pipe for corruption for many years, enriching a few at the expense of the country’s economy.

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Moreover, Faleke further explained how these subsidies had stifled investments in local refining capabilities, thereby perpetuating the country’s dependence on imported fuel. He illuminated the long-term benefits of subsidy removal, which would ultimately pave the way for a self-sustaining energy sector.

Then came the issue of tax reforms—another policy I had seen as punitive. Again, Hon. Faleke exposed my ignorance, elucidating how a restructured tax system would ensure that the burden was fairly distributed, compelling the wealthy to contribute their fair share while fostering a business-friendly environment for small and medium-sized enterprises. His insights were backed by statistics, historical precedents, and global best practices, leaving no room for doubt.

As I delved into research following our conversation, I was astounded by the sheer depth of Faleke’s political sagacity. Here was a man who, despite his firm alignment with the APC, had carved out a reputation as an inclusive politician, engineering relationships across party lines with an admirable sense of humility and diplomacy. Unlike many partisan figures who thrive on divisiveness, Faleke is a bridge-builder, constantly seeking common ground with the opposition while advancing the agenda of progressive governance.

After my encounter with Faleke, it became clear to me why the people of Ikeja Federal Constituency had entrusted him with their mandate for the third consecutive time. I came to understand that his popularity is not borne out of propaganda, but from genuine service and impact he has on his constituency. Undoubtedly, a politician can only retain such strong public trust when his records speaks louder than his words. From infrastructural development to youth empowerment and social welfare initiatives, Hon. Faleke has continued to set the bar high, proving that true leadership is about service, not personal aggrandizement.

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One outstanding trait I observed about Faleke is his uncommon humility. Unlike many politicians today who exude an air of superiority, Faleke is approachable, accessible, and empathetic. He is someone who carries himself with the demeanor of a servant-leader, one who understands that leadership is a privilege, and not a birthright. His ability to relate seamlessly with both the elite and the grassroots stand evident to his deep understanding of governance. He is a man who does not speak in abstract theories but in practical and relatable terms. Whether addressing fellow lawmakers, opposition members, or ordinary citizens, he embodies the spirit of inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the democratic process.

Furthermore, I would say that Faleke’s diplomatic finesse is a rare gem in Nigeria’s polarised political sphere. He does not thrive on hostility or antagonism but on constructive engagement. He understands that governance is about consensus-building, not unnecessary confrontation. Little wonder he is widely respected across party lines.

Beyond politics, I discovered through personal research that Faleke’s humanitarian gestures are legendary. From providing scholarships to indigent students to supporting small business owners and investing in community development, he has consistently and successfully demonstrated a leadership that’s not merely built on making laws only, but actively improving lives.

His tenure as a legislator has been marked by impactful constituency projects, ranging from road construction to the provision of potable water, healthcare initiatives, and youth employment schemes. While many politicians make empty promises, Faleke delivers. He understands the importance of grassroots development, and he has continued to prove that effective governance must reflect in the daily lives of the people.

Furthermore, Faleke’s advocacy for peaceful coexistence and national unity is not short of commendable. To me, he remains one of the few Nigerian politicians who prioritize dialogue over discord. His belief in a united, prosperous Nigeria is very strong, and he continues to push for policies that promote national integration, social cohesion, and economic stability.

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If someone had told me months ago that I would become a BATist, I would have laughed it off as a joke. Yet, here I am, now an ardent supporter of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one who is not just convinced, but fully committed to the vision and the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration. It is undeniable that a political conversation with Faleke is perfect recruit for the good cause of Asiwaju administration.

The turning point, I would say, was not an orchestrated political maneuver, but was an intellectually stimulating conversation with a man whose political doctrine embodies pragmatism, selflessness and patriotism. Faleke never sought to win the argument he had with me; he flawlessly sought to enlighten. I remembered that all through our conversation, he did not impose his views; he simply presented the facts. This right here is the mark of true leadership. One I now believe in, and a conviction I have come to embrace.

Right now, I have seen the light, and there is no going back on this course. I believe that Nigeria is at a crucial juncture, and rather we dwell on unnecessary cynicism, it is time we all rally behind competent leaders who know the way, and have the country’s best interest at heart. Trust me, Faleke is one of such men, and if he is standing with President Tinubu, then I am confident that Nigeria is on the right path.

Finally, before us is a great task to confront every opposition with truth and facts. The journey ahead may not be easy, but with men like Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke championing the cause of good governance right behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I am certain that Nigeria’s future is bright, and  very promising.

Obeli is a public affairs analyst based in Lagos.

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(OPINION) El-Rufai and Ribadu: the hacks spread spicy lies by MOHAMMED SALIHU

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Anyone is free to be a hack for hire, but you would expect that, at least for the sake of retaining a little credibility for the next assignment, the hired hack would show a bit of concern for facts. Facts are important in political commentary as they are in any field that is distinct from the writing of fables.

It is easy to pick apart the commissioned lies that Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice rushed to press with in his write-up on the twists and turns in the El-Rufai/Ribadu relationship. The lies can be debunked in sequence, starting from the falsehood in the very first paragraph.

  1. The Return of Yasmin El-Rufai’s Corpse
    The first falsehood revolves around the tragic incident of Yasmin El-Rufai’s death in 2011. Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice suggests that Nuhu Ribadu brought her corpse home to Nigeria from London, but that is a patent falsehood. Those who made the arrangements and brought the body home are alive. If Haruspice was fed a tale to lead his article, he would be well advised to be more alert and avoid being seen as a fable-recycling vehicle.

Nasir El-Rufai and Nuhu Ribadu had already parted ways since 2010, a year before Yasmin died. However, Ribadu’s presence at the El-Rufai residence in that sorrowful moment misled many sympathisers to believe they were still close.

Hon. Bello El-Rufai has already posted on X that it was his dear uncle Bashir El-Rufai that brought Yasmin’s body back home. Needless to say, It is crude and tasteless to play politics with death and to attach lies to a family’s memory of grief.

  1. The ACN Presidential Ticket of 2011
    In 2010, talks between the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the Good Governance Group (3G) during meetings held in Dubai and Accra discussed an alliance between the two for the 2011 elections. The 3G was focused on internal democracy and competitive primaries, while the ACN wanted the talks to simply produce a 3G presidential candidate with an ACN running mate. Nuhu Ribadu who was absent at these meetings later went behind the 3G members to accept the ACN’s presidential ticket with alacrity in June 2010. The narrative pushed by Haruspice suggests envy from El-Rufai towards Ribadu for accepting the ticket. Again, this shows the exploitation of the writer’s limited knowledge of the issues. The real issue lay in the fact that Ribadu did not inform his friend El-Rufai when he accepted the offer, choosing instead to launch a campaign of calumny against El-Rufai.
  2. Ribadu’s Gubernatorial Bid in 2015
    Ribadu shifted his focus to state-level politics in 2015, contesting for the governorship of Adamawa State on the platform of the PDP. The strangeness of this move was underscored by the fact that the ACN, whose presidential flagbearer he had been just four years earlier, was part of the coalition that had just formed the All Progressives Congress (APC), in time for the 2015 elections. Interested persons can check the story of his defection in The Cable of 17 August 2014, titled “Revealed: Real reason Ribadu defected to PDP”. The story is revealing of Ribadu’s attitude to the leaders of the former ACN after his 2011 electoral mishap.
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The Cable reported in that 2014 story that :
“Ribadu surprised many political analysts in 2010 when he joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN, now part of APC) to contest for the 2011 presidential election against President Goodluck Jonathan of the PDP.
However, he only won in Osun State out of the states under the control of ACN in what many alleged was a betrayal by the ACN leaders who were said to have struck a secret deal with Jonathan before the poll.

“Nuhu took it on his chin then, hoping that 2011 was a good introduction to politics for him. But recent events in APC have demonstrated to him that he is no longer wanted in the party,” the associate said.
There are also bigger calculations about 2019 ─ when presidency is expected to return to the north if Jonathan contests and is re-elected next year.
Ribadu could be in the frame then.”

The 2015 polls showed that Ribadu’s political calculations didn’t add up as APC went on to win the presidency and the governorship of Adamawa.

However, for Nasir El-Rufai, this misstep did not mean that Ribadu should be consigned to the political fringes.

  1. The Political Maneuvering for 2019
    As the 2019 elections approached, Nasir El-Rufai attempted to mend fences by reaching out to then-Governor Jubrilla Bindow of Adamawa to support Nuhu Ribadu for a senatorial seat. El-Rufai sent this message to Ribadu through Uba Sani (now his co-conspirator in the bring down El-Rufai crusade). However, Ribadu snubbed this outreach, asserting instead that he was the most popular politician in the state and could aim for the governorship instead.
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Nothing came of that delusion in 2019. As it was that year, so it was in 2022 when Aisha Binani defeated Ribadu in the Adamawa APC governorship primaries.

  1. Return to Prominence
    The winds blew in Ribadu’s favour in 2023 after showing a persistent inability to be electable (2011 for the presidency and for state governor in 2015 and 2023).

In 2023, Ribadu experienced a resurgence in his political career with his appointment as the National Security Adviser (NSA). This role placed him at the forefront of addressing the myriad security challenges facing the country. It presented Ribadu with a critical choice: to prioritize national security and tackle the pressing issues head-on or to pursue personal agendas in collaboration with a select group of individuals driven by personal insecurities.

  1. Suggested readings
    Haruspice may wish to ask those who commissioned him about how El-Rufai provided Ribadu every assistance to get the EFCC up and running, launching him on a path to national prominence. In the meantime, he can consult Wale Adebanwi’s 2010 book, A Paradise for Maggots. He may also invite his sponsors to react to the relevant pages on the El-Rufai/Ribadu relationship in The Accidental Public Servant, El-Rufai’s 2013 book.
  2. The Importance of Integrity in Political Commentary
    The detailed analysis of these events highlights the critical importance of integrity in political commentary. In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly and influence public opinion, the role of fact-checking and adherence to truth becomes paramount.

Hacks for hire must be wary of commissioned lies, as their short-term gains could lead to long-term losses in reputation and trust.

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In conclusion, the case of El-Rufai and Ribadu underscores the necessity for accuracy and honesty in political journalism. It serves as a reminder that, while anyone can be hired to write, maintaining a commitment to the truth is essential for preserving credibility and fostering an informed electorate.

/theyorubatimes.com/el-rufai-and-ribadu-the-hacks-spread-spicy-lies/

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Opinion

Wike’s Lightnings in FCT,

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BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF.

Since the appointment of Nyesom Ezenwo Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT in 2023, a new dawn has encapsulated all facets of the nation’s capital, wearing a new look in all areas.

Having prioritised security and infrastructural rejuvenation and development, Barrister Nzenwo Nyesom Wike provided beyond expectations in the last one year both at the city centre and even the six area councils including villages adjoining them .

The new Minister lighted up the Federal Capital Territory FCT with renewable energy, solar street lights through the nooks and crannies , that had not only brought out the beauty of the city centre and satellite towns to its new look, but provided the fragile security of lives and properties.

From one stretch to the other of the roads at the city centre, the newly designed and customized renewable energy solar lights was adored all round the town including the area councils, major roads and adjoining roads that had brought the activities of criminals and criminalities to the barest minimum.

Contending with criminal elements that engaged in removal of Manhole and removal of poles been used in the hanging of the solar street lights, Wike has embarked on regulations of the activities of those involved in the purchase of iron related items including the operators of pantakers across the FCT and the six area councils.

This was a result of the discovery of large cache of removed manhole and solar street lights poles from government facilities mounted by the Wike’s administration in the FCT.

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With the multiple approaches to security lapses in FCT that spanned through provision of solar street lights, provision of security gadgets and equipment to security agencies operating in the FCT, including many numbers of motorcycles and rejigging of local security system and synergy with the traditional institutions.

With renewed vigour and determination to address security lapses among many other criminalities in the FCT, it is obvious that the Minister’s determination to continue to provide equipment to address the growing insecurity in the city centre and area councils .

One year down the line, security of lives and properties have been protected inspite the influx of people to the nations city due to insecurity, lack of jobs, and search for greener pasture in the FCT.

The policy of providing streets with solar lights , gradual replacement of generator powered street lights to renewable energy street lights on the ongoing rehabilitation works of roads and construction of new ones has become a cynosure of development in the FCT.

Aside, the provision of electricity, it has now become a norm that street lightning through the provision of solar street lights has become the other of the day in the nation’s city and it’s adjoining areas , hence reducing to the low ebb , the unabated criminal elements operation in the FCT.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.

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Opinion

A Heartfelt Tribute to a Mentor: Haruna Alfa Expresses Gratitude to Dr. Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate

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In a touching letter, Haruna Alfa extends profound gratitude to Dr. Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate for his unwavering support during challenging times.

Alfa reflects on a pivotal moment in his life, sharing how Dr. Pate appeared as a beacon of hope when he faced significant hardships, including nights spent without food. Describing Dr. Pate as an “Angel in human flesh,” Alfa highlights the profound impact of his mentor’s guidance, patience, and encouragement in navigating life’s challenges.

“Your support has not only helped me achieve my career goals but has also taught me the true meaning of mentorship,” Alfa writes. He expresses deep appreciation for Dr. Pate’s generosity and thoughtfulness, which have made a significant difference in his life.

Alfa emphasizes that Dr. Pate has treated him like a son, enabling him to pursue his dreams and inspire others with the same kindness he received.

“Your willingness to go above and beyond during difficult times means more to me than words can express,” he adds.

In closing, Alfa vows to carry forward the spirit of mentorship and kindness that Dr. Pate exemplified, hoping to one day make a similar impact on someone else’s life.

“Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done. I will tell the whole world how remarkable you are!”

With warm regards, Alfa signs off, leaving a heartfelt reminder of the power of mentorship and generosity in transforming lives.

— Haruna Alfa, 08066927460

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