Opinions

The Nexus Between Ekiti State Homeland Intelligence Agency and Ekiti State Security Architecture: Interrogating the Security Threat and Institutional Responses to the Challenges

Published

8 months ago

April 23, 2024

Being a Paper Presented to Ekiti Diaspora Town-Hall Engagement on Security and Intelligence by ADETUNBERU, Oludotun. (PhD), Director General, Ekiti State Homeland Intelligence Agency on Sunday. 21th April, 2024.

Introduction
Homeland Intelligence Agency was established on 25th October, 2023 by His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji with a vision towards “building a robust intelligence capacity in protect Ekiti State from internal and external threats” and with a mission ” to achieve an improved internal security framework through dependable information gathering system, strategic vigilance and community collaboration that seeks to protect and preserve the safety, well-being, and prosperity of all residents in Ekiti State.
Homeland Intelligence Agency advance evidence for information collection, processing, analysis, dissemination and feedback from policy-makers to identify and mitigate threats to Ekiti State.
Therefore, the major focus of Ekiti State Homeland Intelligence Agency is to provide the Chief Security Officer of Ekiti State Government (Mr. Governor) with in-depth intelligence needed to keep the Homeland safe and secured in order to drastically reduce security risks of her citizens, focuses on the highest harm risks to the homeland, whether from terrorists, non- state actors, or cyber, financial, political and or economic criminals.

From the above the mission and the vision of the Agency expressly established the Nexus between Ekiti State Homeland Intelligence Agency and Ekiti Security Architecture at a glance.

Hagen-Zanker, Gagnon & Murray (2024). Noted, that Governments around the Globe are increasingly conscious of the importance of diaspora networks to boost and foster sustainable development, primarily in their countries of origin.

Hagen-Zanker, Gagnon & Murray (2024). Claimed further, that “in 2018, the Global Compact on Migration established the creation of conditions that allow diaspora networks to contribute to sustainable development through the transfer of skills, social capital and financial resources as a key objective”. And diaspora engagement is increasingly prioritized in national development strategies, with many impressive initiatives under way. In lieu of this, security of motherland fosters the impact of Diaspora contributions toward the development of their native communities and as such, intelligence sits on the core of sustained security in the State.

Security Threat in Nigeria
Considering the level of Security threats either in the past, present or in the future; it is important to have basic knowledge of the Security threat battling Nigeria as a State.
Nigeria is 15th most vulnerable in 2023 fragile states index.

According to SBM intelligence tracking, 2,371 Nigerians were killed in the 1st quarter of 2024 with 123 of them being security agents (Punch 19th April)
Nigeria has encountered high level of insecurity in some parts of the country in recent years as a result of terrorism, inter-communal conflicts, criminal banditry, kidnapping, among other challenges. It is not an understatement to say that Nigeria is under siege of violence and insecurity.
The issues of insecurity are multifaceted and multidimensional; The reality of the problem is that security has remained on the exclusive, not concurrent or residual list. Therefore, the chain of commands is centralized by various security agencies.
The heightened and spate of insecurity in Nigeria, and the southwest as a region in particular where kidnappings, herder-farmer conflicts, organized crimes such as armed robberies, ritual killings, cybercrimes, commercial motorcyclists unethical conduct among others have been occurring at alarming rates, there is need for urgent action to mitigate the spate of crimes highlighted above in the most decisive and effective way.

Ekiti State being one of the most peaceful Sates in Nigeria witnessed surge in organized crimes.
It could be recalled that on 13th December, 2023, armed assailants descended on the office of Western Nigeria Security Network code named Amotekun in Ikere Ekiti and killed two officers of Amotekun, a strategy adopted to instill fear and destabilize the existing security architecture before invading two new generation banks with explosives and sporadic shooting in quick succession without any security challenge.
On Monday, 29th January, 2024, armed bandits ambushed three traditional rulers at a spot in Oke-Ako/Irele road of Ikole-Ekiti, shot two Traditional leaders dead while the third monarch managed to escape from the armed marauders. On the same day, three teachers and five pupils of Apostolic Faith School, Emure Ekiti were also kidnapped by gunmen suspected to be criminal herders; the two unfortunate incidents occurred concurrently while State Security Council meeting was ongoing with His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

It is pertinent to note that the two murdered monarchs were respectively in charge of security council within their domains, the late Kabiyesi HRM, Oba (Dr) Olutunji Samuel Olusola the Olumojo of Imojo-Ekiti was the traditional ruler in charge of the Security Committee of Oye Local Government, while the late Elesun, HRM, Oba Ogunsakin Babatunde David, the Kabiyesi of Esun-Ekiti was also the Vice Chairman, Security Committee of Ikole Local Government coupled with HRM, Oba Sunday Adebayo Fatoba, the Alara of Ara in Ikole Ekiti who escaped the deadly attack seats as the Chairman Security Committee of Ikole Local Government.

A day after, while Ekiti people were still mourning the gruesome murder of these Royal Fathers, the armed assailants went to Koro, in Kwara State, a border town to Iyemero town in Ekiti State and assassinate the Olukoro of Koro, HRM Oba Segun Aremu-Cole, abducted his wife and escaped from the town. On the 6th of February, the Elepe of Ohi-Ogidi in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Chief Ojo Olayinka, was equally murdered by yet-to-be-identified gunmen. It is no coincidence that the Kabiyesi, Olukoro of Ikoro was as well the Chairman Security Committee of Ekiti Local Government in Kwara State. The scheme of killings exposed possible targets of security combat monarchs in Yoruba land by armed assailants to send strong signals and create extreme degree of fear in the axis.
It is within our knowledge that over a decade, the North-East region has been engulfed with unending act of terrorism enveloped in severe humanitarian crises and displacement of indigenes as a result of Boko Haram insurgency vis-à-vis Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Due to the unrelenting engagement by the Nigeria military, the armed assailants migrated to the North Central region but with the current military bombardment, it is predictive that south-West region may likely feel more heat because the criminals will be sorting for safe haven with limited military operation. The proximity of Ekiti State, Ondo State with North Central region rendered it as passage route to the southwest.

For instance, Osan, Otun, Erinmope, Aye Oja, Eda Oniyo, Isan, Ilemeso, Iyemero, Irele are all Ekiti Towns that shared border with Kwara State i.e, Ekanmeje, Imoji, ilale, Obo- Ajegunle, Koro, Obeile, Eruku, Ponyan, etc. Most of these border towns are in the rural areas with enormous forest reserves, farm settlements and limited security personnel, rendering most of the towns porous.
This is equally applicable to Kogi State with bordered towns of Omuo-Oke, Ilasa, Ipao, Odo Ayedun, Irele all adjoining Iyamoye, Alu, Igbagun, Igbo-ele, Jege, Ogbe in Kogi State. In the same vein, Ondo State bordered Igbara, Ikere, Emure Ahan Omuo, Iro Ayeteju but on Ibuji, Iju, Supare Akoko, Oke-Agbe, and Irun Akoko respectively.
Above towns are contagious red zones where criminal herders migrating from the north are settled to perpetrate their nefarious activities.

EMANATING THREAT
Kogi State has a very big uninhabited landmass and shared border with many States such as Benue, Enugu, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Ekiti, Edo, Ondo States and FCT. Reasonable number of bandits domiciled in the region, therefore the possibility of easy access to Southwest Nigeria through Kogi State is very high.
Pls bear in mind that river Niger took its source from Guinea highlands, flows through Mail, Niger and terminate in Nigeria. The river is a big access for arms transportation. The possibility of proliferation of light weapon and arms transportation through small vessels vary the river is very high therefore, providing an habitat for criminals as it has been reported that they have many criminal cells in their forests.

Need I remind you, that river Niger took its source from Guinea highlands, flows through Mail, Niger and terminate in Nigeria; the river is an open access for arms transportation. The possibility of proliferation of light weapons and arms transportation through small vessels ferrying the river is very high; therefore, providing channel for criminals as it has been reported that they have many criminal cells in their forests.

However, His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has approved our interactions with neighboring States to discuss with the Local Government Chairmen from the adjourning States to come up with suitable modalities on how we can safeguard our territories through joint border patrol, intelligence synergy, joint forest combing exercise and other areas of community policing and collaboration. To further achieve this, His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji established Ekiti State Forest guard with a directive to collaborate with Security Agencies in flushing out kidnappers and other criminal elements in the state.

Flowing from the above, it is pertinent to mention that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently gave Nigeria Armed Forces express order to crush bandits and other elements terrorizing Nigeria.

It is important to equally commend other conventional security agencies for their efforts thus far, particularly, the Nigeria Police Force Ekiti State Command, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, as well as western security network (Amotekun) in Ekiti State, the Vigilante Groups, local Hunters’ Association, Peace Corps and other various security networks emplaced by all the Local Government Chairmen in Ekiti State to safeguard their domains.
2. Justice System as agent of security threat.

Nigeria is faced with an unprecedented wave of different but overlapping security crises from kidnapping to extremist insurgencies; with rigor and tireless effort in arresting notorious criminals for prosecution, many of these criminals are either freed or given light jail terms which in return discourages the security agencies while these elements mostly return to the criminal world. Our justice system is in need of reforms as the hope of the common man; political pardon through Attorney General across the country also contributes to the already tensed society, while most victims of these crimes are sometimes scared of coming up as witnesses to many cases of rapes and kidnapping.

04. COMBATING CRIMINALITY
Detection and mapping of areas where all or some of these crimes are concentrated, otherwise known as crime hotspots, are very important in the context of technique/approach usually adopted.
For instance, the law enforcement agencies usually carry out geographical analysis with a view to establishing crime hotspots through the use of crime pin maps of reported crime events over a given period. Prior to recent advances in geospatial technology, law enforcement agencies typically placed coloured pushpins in wall maps to visualize individual crime events and examine the spatial distribution of crime locations. There is a paradigm shift away from this popular approach to crime hotspots detection. The advent of geospatial techniques and its applications to crime control and management has provided greater opportunities for not only mapping of crime but also allowing the analysis of hotspots over a period of time and shift in the location of hotspots over time.
I wish to inform my audience that Homeland Intelligence Agency is currently reviewing all the crime spots across 16 Local Governments and 19 Local Council Development Areas as approved by His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for effective forest combing and patrol.

It is vital to use this good opportunity to inform this gathering of Mr. Governor’s proactiveness to issues of insecurity which is highly commendable, we secured the release of all the six School pupils kidnapped by non-indigene armed assailants and their Teachers, three in numbers and within a week, arrested criminals involved in the killings of our high revered monarchs as they have been charged to court as required by law.

Ekiti State Government is currently addressing the issues of Herders /Farmers clashes and farm destructions, all the Directors of farm settlements, Director of afforestation, managers of farm- settlements in Ekiti State held meetings recently as directed by Mr. Governor and concrete plans are already in place to further checkmate the criminal activities of the non-indigene settlers on our farm settlement, while the anti-grazing law is in enforcement as directed by Special Adviser on Security Matters.

It should be noted that Ekiti State has ten forest reserves and five big farm settlements apart from the land border, all these reserve forests and farm settlements are linked up to neighboring States, for Instance, little Ose forest, Eporo forest, Ise forest, Ikere forest, are reserved forests linked to Ondo State, and Edo State. Ogotun forest and Egbe are linked to Owena in Osun State and Irun Akoko in Ondo State respectively. Also, the Gede farm settlements located in Ayede spanning to Ilemeso, Itaji, Omu, Itapaji, Ipao to Iyemero farm settlements linked up to Kogi and Kwara States. We also have Osin, Orin farm settlements.

Ekiti State Government has made efforts to further beef up the security network around our primary and secondary schools against invasion by the armed assailants especially in contagious border towns in Ekiti State.
I may not be able to disclose other strategies deployed in the open for security reasons but I can assure you that, His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is not only in charge but fully on top of the game and at the moment Ekiti State has regained her status as one of the most peaceful State in Nigeria. The rate of kidnapping and other associated crimes has reduced drastically and to the barest minimum level.

Evil that befalls once neighbors create a signal to be prepared for eventuality; the already defeated kidnapping incidents in Ekiti may likely resurface if proactive security strategies are not sustained in the face of unnecessary influx of unfamiliar herdsmen roaming our forest and farms with impunity. However, there is need for dynamic security structure to face of the impending menace as our forest may also stand as safe haven to armed miscreants and like minds ascribable to sense absent of security personnel in the domain.

05. SECURITY WELFARE AND DEPLOYMENT
Ladies and gentlemen, at this juncture, we need to access and assess the Nigeria Police Force. I shared the view of the current Inspector General of Police when he noted that Nigeria is under policed.
I regret to say this but it remains my personal position, It is very unfair that past leaders in Nigeria have under equipped the Nigeria Police Force, instead of strengthening the capacity of the Police, they ended up balkanizing it and today we are all bearing the consequences of our actions.

Nigeria currently is estimated to be 250 million whereas, Nigeria’s current police strength is barely over 370,000 personnel which is insufficient based on a ratio of one police officer to about 600 citizens whereas, the UN-recommended ratio is one police officer to almost 450 citizens.
To meet up with the benchmark, Egbetokun said the Federal Government needs to increase the annual recruitment quota of police personnel from 10,000 to 20,000 and currently the Nigeria Police Service Commission is just conducting the 2022 recruitment exercise in the month of April 2024.

“The Nigerian Police requires an additional 190,000 personnel to be at par with the United Nations recommendation,” he said.
As Egypt with population of about 108 million has Police Force of about 1 million, the addition of Nigeria Military and Nigeria Police is not even up to a million put together with many ungoverned spaces according to Senator Ali Ndume.

Currently, we are clamoring for State Policing when we don’t have the capability and capacity to fund and maintain the existing structure; unfortunately, Nigeria Military is overstretched and overwhelmed due to political office holders. For a long period of time, the Nigeria Army has taken over the duty of the Nigeria Police Force with limited focus on protecting the territorial integrity of Nigeria State against external aggression and internal subversion.

The constitution has created conflict of duties among the security agencies, such as Nigeria Police Force, (NPF), Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Road Safety, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), with overlapping schedule of duties and conflicting interests.

Lastly.
Ekiti State is the smallest State by area in south-west and as such, should maintain and enjoy adequate security; secure her borders and motivate farmers cultivate her fertile land without apprehension of attacks by criminal herdsmen roaming the forest. With the challenges discussed above, security of our dear state is a collective responsibility of both residents and Diasporas; Diasporas should as a matter of urgency assists in funding both State and Federal security agencies in the state. Just recently, Ekiti State Government acquired 30 Hilux vehicles for security surveillance and patrol. We also have responsibility to collaborate with government in crime prevention as been done in Lagos State, where stakeholders, industries and diaspora gives support through Security Trust Fund.

It has been established that southwest region retained the most peaceful region in Nigeria as at today among the six geopolitical regions in Nigeria.
Ekiti Diaspora are known assets to their host countries, on that template can influence and bring forth development of tech-security to their homeland; we must not wait until Ekiti State becomes death trap to citizens and dwellers alike.

The limited fund accrued to the State coupled with handful internally generated revenue may deprive the State of needed high standard modern security equipment such as: drones, technical Intelligence apparatus and other surveillance cameras systems to effectively policing of our unique state. With huge diaspora base, I solidly believe your financial and material assistance will seal the vacuum.

The IKOGOSI warm spring is not just a pride to Ekiti State but Nigeria at large, with huge resources spent in remodeling the spring; adequate and assured security will certainly, transform it to world tourists’ friendly location which in turn, help improve IGR of Ekiti State.
Security as the base of development, Homeland intelligence Agency is at the forefront of permanently sniffing out criminal elements from our State; securing the boundaries and ensuring lasting peace across board.

Opinions

10 ways the Tax Bills will make states richer

Published

1 week ago

December 4, 2024

Seyi Babalola

By Temitope Ajayi

Human beings naturally resist change. When comfortable where we are, we find it extremely difficult to embrace an uncharted path or seek greater glory. Those who are risk averse often don’t want to venture out to embrace unfamiliar territories no matter how tempting the possible reward may appear. We should not, however, be so imprisoned by the fear of the unknown not to explore new possibilities because we find our present circumstances satisfying enough.

Since the public debate around the Tax Reform Bills started, the strongest push back against it has come largely from the north. Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has become the face of the resistance for the reasons he has pushed forward, even when some of them didn’t speak to the facts and provisions of the bills.

If Governor Zulum and other voices of resistance who think the states will be shortchanged had actually taken time to examine the four executive Bills, they will see how progressive and transformative the Bills are. They will also discern the thought behind them which is primarily to make both the Federal and sub-nationals fiscally stronger and buoyant.

In his public presentations and the most recent being the Channels TV Town Hall moderated by Seun Okinbaloye Monday evening, Chairman of Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele and other panelists again made convincing arguments for the passage of the Bills before the National Assembly.

Here are the 10 ways the Tax Bills will serve the states better and enhance their capacity to earn more revenue:

1. The federal government will cede 5% out of its current 15% share of VAT revenue to states.

2. The Bills will transfer income from the Electronic Money Transfer levy exclusively to states as part of stamp duties.

3. The Bills seek to repeal obsolete stamp duties law and re-enactment of a simplified law to enhance the revenue for states.

4. Under the new dispensation the Tax Bills will usher in, states will be entitled to the tax of Limited Liability Partnerships.

5. When passed by the National Assembly, the Tax Bills will enable the state government to enjoy tax exemption on their bonds to be at par with federal government bonds.

6. Under the proposed tax reform, states will enjoy a more equitable model for VAT attribution and distribution that will lead to higher VAT income.

7. Integrated tax administration will provide tax intelligence to states, strengthen capacity development and collaboration, and scope of Tax Appeal Tribunal to cover taxpayer disputes on state taxes.

8. The proposed tax laws grant powers for Accountant General of the Federation to deduct taxes unremitted by a government or MDA and pay to the beneficiary sub-national government on personal income tax of workers of federal institutions in states.

9. Framework to grant autonomy for states internal revenue service and enhanced Joint Revenue Board to promote collaborative fiscal federalism.

10. Legal framework for taxation of lottery and gaming and introduction of withholding tax for the benefit of states.

From the aforementioned, it is clear that the Tax Bills are not in any way injurious to the states. Apart from streamlining the tax system in Nigeria and catalysing economic output, the tax and fiscal policy reforms provide incentives for states to become economic powerhouses. The challenge for governors will be to put on their thinking cap by investing in manpower and critical social and physical infrastructure in their states that will support businesses and socio-economic activities to flourish.

-Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity

Opinions

Forging Ahead: The Evolving Nigeria-South Africa Alliance

Published

1 week ago

December 3, 2024

Seyi Babalola

By Sunday Dare

As Nigeria and South Africa hold the 11th session of Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission, in Cape Town, on Tue Dec 3, 2024 it is trite to establish the contours of their relationship and to thank President Tinubu for keeping faith with Africa’s other big brother.
The radar on Nigeria again shifts to South Africa witnessing three weeks of unprecedented shuttle political and economic diplomacy.

President Bola Tinubu’s co-chairmanship of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa marks a significant diplomatic step towards fostering stronger bilateral ties.

This meeting, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of the BNC, underscores the importance of high-level engagements between Africa’s two largest economies.

As Nigeria and South Africa convene the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, it is imperative to reflect on the historical and evolving contours of their relationship. This milestone session, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the BNC, serves as a testament to the resilience, ambition, and shared vision of Africa’s two largest economies. It is also a fitting moment to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to fostering robust ties with Africa’s other “big brother,” South Africa.

In the wake of three weeks of intense shuttle diplomacy spanning political and economic arenas, Nigeria’s radar is again fixed on South Africa. These engagements underscore a mutual recognition of their intertwined destinies in shaping Africa’s future.

As leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders converge in Cape Town, the air will be laden with both expectation and nostalgia—a poignant reminder of a partnership that has endured triumphs, challenges, and moments of historic significance.

One cannot but recall May 1990, when Nelson Mandela, few months after his release from Robben Island, embarked on a state visit to Lagos. That moment, etched in the annals of African solidarity, rekindled the bond between Nigeria and South Africa, catalyzing a renewed era of collaboration. It was a symbolic bridge, uniting the aspirations of two nations whose struggles and victories have defined the narrative of Africa’s journey toward liberation and unity.

This week, Cape Town becomes the stage for another chapter in this storied relationship. With the BNC serving as a platform for dialogue and cooperation, the two nations are poised to reaffirm their roles as co-architects of a continent driven by shared prosperity, peace, and purpose. Their ability to navigate the currents of history while embracing the opportunities of the future demonstrates that this partnership is, indeed, coming of age.

Established in 1999, the Nigeria-South Africa BNC is a structured platform aimed at enhancing cooperation across political, economic, and social sectors. Over the years, the commission has evolved into a key mechanism for dialogue, addressing shared challenges, and fostering sustainable development.

This year’s session, encompassing eight working groups, highlights both nations’ commitment to addressing mutual priorities: These key priorities include political consultations (ensuring stability in regional and global contexts), consular and migration Issues (addressing concerns such as xenophobia and facilitating smoother relations), banking and finance (exploring avenues for economic integration), defence and security (trackling transnational crimes and terrorism), as well as manufacturing and trade (including strengthening intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCFTA). Also covered are mines and energy (leveraging natural resources for mutual benefit, social sector development (promoting education, healthcare, and culture), and trade and Investment (expanding business opportunities for both nations).

The philosophical underpinnings for the BNC embodies principles of Pan-Africanism, Ubuntu, and liberal institutionalism, emphasizing unity, collective progress, and institutionalized cooperation. As Nelson Mandela aptly stated, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” This captures the essence of overcoming historical frictions to achieve a united African future.

President Tinubu’s leadership in this context is pivotal, reflecting Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa’s socio-economic and political landscape.

A discussion of the ongoing efforts would be incomplete without referencing philosophical concepts that accentuate its significance.
Rooted in the works of W.E.B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Julius Nyerere, Pan-Africanism emphasizes the solidarity of African nations to combat external domination and promote socio-economic progress. The BNC reflects this ideal by uniting Nigeria and South Africa as pillars of African development. As Kwame Nkrumah once said, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.”. This quote underscores the importance of Nigeria and South Africa overcoming historical challenges, such as xenophobia, to focus on collective progress.

The BNC’s deliberations and MoUs can be seen as an extension of this principle. According to Aristotle, “The good of the people must be the great aim of government.” The Southern African philosophy of Ubuntu, often translated as “I am because we are,” aligns with the spirit of the BNC. It emphasizes interconnectedness, mutual respect, and the collective good. Ubuntu offers a philosophical lens through which Nigeria and South Africa can navigate shared challenges and opportunities. As Desmond Tutu once reflected: “We can only be human together: hence, the essence of collaborative efforts in fostering a united African front.

Beyond these, the Dependency Theory, associated with scholars like Andre Gunder Frank, critiques the global economic system’s perpetuation of underdevelopment in the Global South. By strengthening intra-African trade and reducing reliance on foreign powers, Nigeria and South Africa can challenge these structures through platforms like the BNC. Joseph Stiglitz’s words that “Development is about transforming the lives of people, not just transforming economies,” aligns with the BNC’s goals of translating economic growth into meaningful societal impacts.

The pragmatic effort to address specific issues in trade, security, and development stresses the responsibility of both leaders to focus on concrete outcomes over rhetoric. More importantly, it refects the basic principles of African Renaissance. Championed by scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and Thabo Mbeki, the African Renaissance envisions a continent reclaiming its rightful place in global affairs through unity, cultural revival, and economic development. The BNC is a practical manifestation of this vision.Certainly, Tinubu and Ramaphosa are evoking the shared identity and destiny of Nigerians and South Africans in fostering an African Renaissance. The BNC serves as a practical example of liberal institutionalism, fostering dialogue and collaboration in a structured manner. As Martin Luther King Jr once stated, “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” This underscores the imperative for sustained collaboration through institutions like the BNC.

Constructivism suggests that international relations are shaped by ideas, identities, and shared values rather than mere material factors. Therefore, the symbolic 25th anniversary of the BNC is a reflection of the shared identity and history of Nigeria and South Africa.
According to John Maynard Keynes, “The ideas of men, their dreams and visions, are much more powerful than material forces.” The role of shared visions in shaping Nigeria-South Africa relations cannot be over-emphasized.

Shared History

The history of Nigeria-South Africa relationship runs through the period of Anti-Apartheid Solidarity of 1960 – 1965, through Post-Apartheid engagement that started in 1999. Nigeria was a leading supporter of South Africa’s liberation movement. Between 1960 and 1995, Nigeria committed substantial financial and diplomatic resources to the anti-apartheid struggle, offering refuge and education to South African exiles like Thabo Mbeki.The Bi-National Commission, established in 1999, institutionalized bilateral cooperation. However, relations have faced challenges, including xenophobic attacks in South Africa and trade imbalances.

The current nature of the two countries’ economic relations shows that Nigeria’s oil exports and South Africa’s industrial expertise complement each other. Opportunities under AfCFTA and energy collaboration highlight the untapped potential of this relationship. Looking ahead, it is rather easy to see that with strong historical ties and shared visions, Nigeria and South Africa are well-positioned to lead Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

From Anti-Apartheid Solidarity to Economic Collaboration

The Nigeria-South Africa relationship is a tale of resilience, solidarity, and transformation, deeply rooted in shared historical, political, and economic narratives. As Africa’s largest economies, the two nations have carved distinct yet intertwined paths that highlight their roles as both leaders and collaborators in shaping the continent’s destiny. From Nigeria’s pivotal support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle to their evolving economic partnership, this relationship embodies the essence of African unity. Yet, it has not been without its challenges, marked by moments of friction and unresolved tensions.
The forthcoming 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town provides a fitting occasion to reflect on this storied partnership. With the backdrop of the 25th anniversary of the BNC, it is an opportune moment to examine how the two nations have evolved from their shared fight for justice to becoming co-architects of Africa’s economic and political renaissance.
The roots of the Nigeria-South Africa partnership lie in the era of apartheid, where Nigeria emerged as one of the most steadfast allies of the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements in South Africa and Nigeria’s key contributions cover:

• Diplomatic Advocacy: Nigeria was a vocal opponent of apartheid on global platforms such as the United Nations and the Commonwealth, pushing for sanctions and isolating South Africa’s apartheid regime diplomatically.

• Financial and Material Aid: Under initiatives such as the “Mandela Tax,” successive Nigerian governments provided significant financial and logistical support to the ANC. Over the decades, Nigeria is estimated to have spent over $61 billion in its efforts to dismantle apartheid.

• Educational and Cultural Solidarity: Nigeria welcomed South African exiles and offered scholarships to ANC members, including figures like Thabo Mbeki, who studied and lived in Nigeria during apartheid. Nigerian universities served as sanctuaries for intellectual and political development for many South African activists.

• Civil Society Advocacy: Nigerian artists, intellectuals, and activists utilized literature, music, and advocacy to raise global awareness of the atrocities of apartheid and rally international solidarity.

Nigeria-South Africa relations in the post-apartheid era reflects collaboration, along with some measure of frictions. With apartheid dismantled in 1994 and Nelson Mandela’s election as South Africa’s first democratic president, the dynamic between the two nations transitioned from solidarity to collaboration. However, this new era was also punctuated by moments of tension.

Collaborative Achievements

• Institutional Frameworks: The establishment of the Bi-National Commission in 1999 formalized a structured approach to bilateral engagement.

• African Leadership: Both nations played pivotal roles in initiatives such as the African Union (AU) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), advancing the African Renaissance.

• Economic Ties: South African corporations such as MTN, Shoprite, and Multichoice became prominent players in Nigeria’s economic landscape, fostering trade and investment.

Sources of Tension:

• Xenophobia: Recurrent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa have strained relations, spotlighting socio-economic grievances and perceptions of competition.

• Diplomatic Disputes: Occasional policy disagreements, such as South Africa’s visa denial to Nigerian officials during Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency, have highlighted gaps in mutual understanding.

• Trade Imbalance: While South African businesses thrive in Nigeria, Nigerian firms face significant barriers in South Africa, fueling perceptions of unequal benefits.

Pragmatic mutual exploration of trade and economic potentials has since taken over. As Africa’s two largest economies, Nigeria and South Africa are uniquely positioned to lead the continent’s economic transformation.
Current Dynamics.

• Trade Composition: Nigeria primarily exports crude oil and natural gas to South Africa, while South Africa exports machinery, manufactured goods, and processed foods.

• Investment Landscape: South African firms dominate in sectors like telecommunications (MTN), retail (Shoprite), and media (Multichoice).
Opportunities for Growth.

• Intra-African Trade: The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents opportunities for deeper trade integration, particularly in technology and industrial goods.

• Energy Partnerships: Nigeria’s energy surplus and South Africa’s demand create possibilities for collaboration in oil, gas, and renewables.

• Shared Regional Leadership: Joint infrastructural and developmental initiatives can drive economic growth across Africa.

A Vision for the Future
Despite historical and contemporary challenges, the Nigeria-South Africa partnership remains a cornerstone of African diplomacy. The 25th anniversary of the Bi-National Commission serves as an opportunity to recalibrate their relationship and unlock its potential for mutual and continental benefits.

As Thabo Mbeki poignantly remarked:
“We share a common destiny as Africans. Only through unity and cooperation can we rise above our challenges and achieve greatness.”
This sentiment captures the essence of Nigeria-South Africa relations—a partnership poised to redefine Africa’s trajectory toward peace, prosperity, and global relevance.

Sunday Dare
Special Adviser, to the President on Media and Public Communications

Opinions

Measuring national progress, NBS data, and scepticism

Published

2 weeks ago

November 29, 2024

Seyi Babalola

By Bayo Onanuga

Recent reports from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) have become a focal point of criticism and scepticism, especially by the political opposition and perpetual doubters of any positive report about our country.

In its Q2 labour survey report, the NBS says the unemployment rate fell from 5.3 % in Q1 to 4.3% in Q2. Compared to the unemployment rate of 5.3% in Q4 2022, the report shows some progress, as it also indicates lower level of youth unemployment.

The NBS also reported that GDP growth in the third quarter rose to 3.46% year-on-year in real terms, higher than the 2.54% recorded in Q3 2023 and above the second quarter growth of 3.19%.

The report stated that the GDP’s performance in the third quarter of 2024 was driven mainly by the Services sector, which recorded a growth of 5.19% and contributed 53.58% to the aggregate GDP. The agriculture sector grew by 1.14%, from the growth of 1.30% recorded in the third quarter of 2023. The industry sector’s growth was 2.18%, an improvement from 0.46% recorded in the third quarter of 2023.

“In terms of share of the GDP, the services sector contributed more to the aggregate GDP in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the corresponding quarter of 2023.

“In the quarter under review, aggregate GDP at basic price stood at N71,131,091.07 million in nominal terms. This performance is higher than the third quarter of 2023, which recorded an aggregate GDP of N60,658,600.37 million, indicating a year-on-year nominal growth of 17.26%.

Amid a singer’s uninformed opinion that went viral on social media that our country’s economy is in shambles, the NBS sounded positive, reporting that the economy is improving, as proven by the successive growth from Quarter one of 2024 up until Quarter 3.

Ordinarily, such positive reports should elicit hope and joy that our country’s economy is getting out of the woods, but they were instead met with skepticism from some quarters.

Unfounded allegations by critics that the data was manipulated fail to recognise the transparent and robust methodologies employed by the NBS. These methodologies are continually reviewed and improved to ensure reliability, providing a solid foundation for the data presented.

In contrast, when the NBS reported that inflation figures rose, these same voices quickly endorsed the report, illustrating some Nigerians’ selective acceptance of data based on preconceived narratives and confirmation bias rather than its authenticity.

It is crucial to emphasise that the NBS operates as an independent entity committed to providing accurate and objective data. These statistics are not mere numbers; they are derived from comprehensive research and analysis, reflecting the multifaceted realities of our national economy. The processes align with global best practices, and the bureau’s methodologies are continually reviewed and improved to ensure reliability.

Moreover, the positive economic indicators should be viewed as milestones in the ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to strengthen Nigeria’s economy. The figures by NBS reflect that a combination of government initiatives is yielding fruits, boosting the service sector and the stock and bond market, creating jobs, and driving sustainable growth. These developments, sooner than later, will translate into improved living standards, increased job opportunities, and a more robust economy for all Nigerians.

While challenges remain, dismissing progress in a knee-jerk manner, as some Nigerians do, negates the hard work of the government and the private sector, which contributed to these achievements.

The same way some Nigerians dismiss and deride economic data is very prevalent on the judicial front and in the work of the Independent National Electoral Commission. When a politician wins an election or a legal case, the singsong is that it has been a fair contest and justice has been delivered; however, when a candidate or party loses, the supporters binge on derision against INEC or the judges. Only recently, a prominent Nigerian went abroad to dismiss the 2023 election as a travesty because his candidate did not win the poll or the legal challenge instituted.

As Nigerians, we must respect our judicial system, even when the outcome does not favour us. The symbol of justice is a pendulum, and judges uphold justice based on the rule of law, without public pressure or sentiment. Accusations of corruption, whenever verdicts defy personal expectations, undermine the integrity of our courts and the democratic principles we cherish. We must turn the page over these matters and stop clinging to skepticism when presented with favourable data reflecting our nation’s progress. Those who truly want Nigeria to become a great country we all claim we seek will not use every opportunity to take out the flames of national progress. While the challenges remain and are being addressed, we must always recognise and celebrate every progress.

– Onanuga is Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy