The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that home delivery of passports will commence in June 2024, eliminating the need for Nigerians to travel to immigration offices to obtain their passports.
This new service was confirmed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during an inspection of the electronic gates at the new terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Friday, May 24, 2024.
Minister Tunji-Ojo explained that the home delivery service will initially be available in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Abuja to prevent overloading the system and ensure a smooth implementation. For Nigerians living abroad, the service will first be offered in the United States and the United Kingdom, following preliminary testing to ensure its effectiveness.
The minister acknowledged missing the original plan, which was to start home delivery in February 2024, but disclosed that this was delayed due to challenges related to data center availability. He revealed that the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) had been relying on a private company’s data center, which was not a sustainable solution.
“We have completed the whole solution but when we came on board, we realized that the data center was not really there. We were leveraging on a private company’s data center and we appreciate them for that assistance. We think that it is better to create a permanent solution to problems rather than quick fixes,” said Tunji-Ojo.
He stressed the importance of having a dedicated data center for the NIS to maintain the integrity and security of national data.
“It is disgraceful that NIS is 61 years old and NIS is a custodian of biometric data of Nigeria and we believe that NIS should be in charge of the data of Nigeria. It is not acceptable that this data is domiciled in a third party and that is why we have been able to do this,’’ he added.
Minister Tunji-Ojo announced that the construction of the new data center hasbeen completed, resolving the issues that delayed the home delivery service.
“It is about national security and I can assure you that it is comparable with anyone you can find anywhere in the world. We have built the data center, sorted the passport delivery solution, and done the final presentation in terms of technology deliverables and the tracking solution which will all be embedded in the application we have so we do not create multiple lines of failure,’’he stated.
In addition to passport delivery, the minister mentioned that the final presentation of the electronic visa has been completed. This will reduce the processing time for visas from 72 hours to 48 hours, further modernizing the services provided by the Ministry of Interior.
This initiative is part of the Nigerian government’sbroader efforts to modernize administrative processes and enhance service delivery to its citizens. In October 2023, Tunji-Ojo announced a plan to have passports delivered to homes, offices, or any other preferred locations, indicating a significant shift towards automation and improved user experience for passport applicants.
The automation and home delivery of passports aim to streamline the application process, reduce the burden on immigration offices, and improve convenience for Nigerians.
“By January next year, Nigerians will be able to complete this application process online, and by February next year, with collaboration and partnership with other relevant stakeholders, Nigerians will have their passports delivered to their homes, offices, and other locations of their choice,” he said.
As this new service rolls out, it is expected to bring significant relief and convenience to many Nigerians, both within the country and abroad, marking a major milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance administrative efficiency and citizen satisfaction.
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, the Nigerian House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill to restore the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” replacing the current anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots.“
Sponsored by House Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo), the bill swiftly advanced through first, second, and third readings.
The bill, officially titled “Bill For An Act to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria, and for Matters Related Thereto,” stipulates that upon its commencement, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” will become the official anthem of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Leading the debate, Ihonvbere noted the superior qualities of the old anthem in terms of vigor, resourcefulness, and vision, which he argued are essential for the nation’s progress.
“I have taken time to look at the old anthem and the new, and as a Nigerian who has been involved in the struggle to make Nigeria a better place either as a student to the student union movement including the ‘Ali must go‘ movement or as a university teacher; having been secretary, vice chairman and chairman of ASUU or as a pro-democracy activist who spent twelve and a half years in self-exile, I believe that the old anthem encompasses, contains, and exudes the kind of energy, resourcefulness, and a sense of vision that is good for Nigeria,” Ihonvbere stated.
“The old anthem not only begins by telling us of the pride to serve our nation which is what is required right now when people are ‘Japa-ing‘ left, right, and centre. But it goes on to assert the sovereignty of our motherland,” he added.
However, the bill faced significant opposition from several lawmakers who questioned its relevance amidst Nigeria’s pressing issues. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) voiced his disapproval, pointing out that the country has more urgent problems that need legislative attention.
“Today we are taking ourselves back to the old National Anthem. Incidentally, I will ask again, is this bill important at this particular time in our national lives? What value will it add to us as a nation?” Chinda asked. “Nigerians are looking up to us for more fundamental issues that will cause proper change. Prof took us to history days, what is the history we are about to make? So I stand as a Nigerian to say no to this bill. I pray that we look at it critically and urge the sponsor, the House leader, to withdraw this bill.”
Hon. Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno) also spoke against the bill, arguing that it would not address the urgent challenges of hunger, banditry, and insecurity currently ravaging the country.
“Nigerians are looking up to us regarding this bill because many of us in our early 40s don’t know this national anthem. I don’t know how this bill on the national anthem will affect the common man,” Satomi stated.
“Let’s be realistic about how this will help the government to stop hunger, banditry, or improve security. Let’s do what is beneficial to the common man and this Honourable chamber is the only one standing for the common man of Nigeria.”
Despite the objections, the bill passed after a voice vote, leading to a mild uproar in the House as more lawmakers voted against it. Unperturbed by the dissenting voices, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu listed the bill for consideration at the Committee of the Whole. Following the clause-by-clause consideration, the bill was listed for the third reading and passed when put to vote.
Why the sudden interest in the old national anthem?
Nigerians have been asking the above question ever since the bill was passed on Thursday, especially as it is happening when the country is grappling with severe economic hardship. They echo the sentiment of Chinda and Satomi, noting that Nigeria has more pressing issues to contend with as a nation, which require the time and effort the lawmakers have given the bill.
While it is not clear what resurrected the current interest in the old national anthem, a reference has been made to President Bola Tinubu’s past speeches. Tinubu has previously advocated for the adoption of the old national anthem over the current one.
In 2011, as the leader of one of the main opposition parties, Tinubu called for the adoption of the old anthem, highlighting his longstanding preference for it. This historical context may explain some of the current momentum behind the bill.
“Abandoning the post-independence anthem, which arguably evoked a strong spirit of patriotism and brotherliness, to compose a very drab replacement, is far less inspirational,” Tinubu was quoted as saying during a speech at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.
Also, during his presidential campaign, Tinubu expressed hope to return to the old anthem. With his one-year mark in office approaching on Wednesday, some speculate that adopting the old anthem could provide a symbolic win for his administration, despite his decision to order a low-key celebration.
This is not the first time the idea has gained traction. In 2011, while leading one of the main opposition parties, Tinubu called for the old national anthem to replace the existing one. But the call for the return of the old national anthem has not always been Tinubu’s idea only. The 2014 National Conference also recommended adopting the old anthem, viewing it as a better symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity.
Background of Nigeria’s National Anthems
The old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” written by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda, was Nigeria’s anthem at independence but was replaced in 1978 under General Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime. The current anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots,” resulted from a national competition that sought to create an anthem reflective of Nigeria’s diverse cultures.
At the time of Nigeria’s independence in 1960, the British colonial masters viewed Nigerians as lacking the creativity to write and compose their own national anthem. Consequently, they commissioned Lillian Jean Williams to write the anthem and contracted Frances Berda to set it to music. This anthem, composed without any input from Nigerians, was imposed on the newly independent nation.
The anthem faced criticism from the start. Some felt it mocked Nigeria, while others believed it exacerbated the country’s ethnic differences rather than fostering unity. For instance, the lines “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” were seen as paying mere lip service to the ideal of national unity. As a result, many Nigerians reportedly sang the anthem without genuine conviction, and some refused to sing it altogether.
The situation worsened with the Nigerian Civil War, which left deep scars on the nation’s psyche. General Obasanjo, who became the head of state after the war, believed that a new, Nigerian-composed anthem, could help the country heal and move away from its colonial past. In 1978, his regime established a committee to create a new national anthem. A national competition was announced, inviting Nigerians from different tribes to contribute their writings in an effort to create a unifying anthem that represented the country’s diverse cultures.
Out of numerous entries, five were selected: P. O. Aderogba, Babatunde Ogunnaike, John Ikechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, and Sotu Omoigui. Their submissions were combined to form the new national anthem. Benedict Odiase, who was then the Director of Music in the Nigeria Police Band, composed the music for these lyrics.
The new anthem, created by Nigerians for Nigerians, aimed to instill a sense of national pride and unity was born. It’s believed to mark a significant departure from the colonial past, reflecting the country’s aspirations and identity.
However, recent discussions about reverting to the old anthem, seemingly spurred by President Bola Tinubu’s past advocacy and the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, have reignited debates about national symbols and their role in fostering unity and addressing contemporary challenges.
Many note that the debate over the national anthem is not merely about the lyrics and melody but touches on deeper issues of national identity, patriotism, and historical legacy. Proponents of the old anthem argue that it evokes a stronger sense of pride and unity, essential for nation-building. Ihonvbere’s argument that the old anthem embodies a vision and energy that the new one lacks resonates with people who feel a nostalgic connection to Nigeria’s post-independence era.
Opponents, however, view the debate as a distraction from more pressing national concerns. With Nigeria facing significant socio-economic challenges, some lawmakers and a large section of Nigeria believe that legislative efforts should focus on addressing these issues rather than revisiting historical symbols.
The Role of National Symbols
National symbols like anthems, flags, and emblems play a crucial role in fostering national identity and unity. They are often seen as embodiments of a nation’s values, history, and aspirations. Thus, critics note that changing a national anthem can be a deeply symbolic act, reflecting shifts in national sentiment and priorities.
For many Nigerians, “Arise O’ Compatriots” represent a call to action and collective responsibility, fitting for a country striving to overcome various challenges. The anthem’s message of unity and service to the nation is said to resonate with contemporary efforts to build a more inclusive and resilient Nigeria.
However, critics argue that the focus on changing the national anthem diverts attention from critical issues such as economic recovery, security, and governance reforms. They urge lawmakers to prioritize policies and legislation that directly impact the well-being of the citizens.
The cryptocurrency landscape has witnessed a significant development as the court approves the Genesis bankruptcy plan, marking a pivotal moment for Gemini Earn customers. This approval sets the stage for the return of approximately $3 billion in assets to creditors and investors, including those involved with the Gemini Earn program.
The Gemini Earn program has been a topic of interest for many in the cryptocurrency community. It’s a feature offered by the Gemini exchange that allows users to earn interest on their digital assets. The program works by lending out users’ cryptocurrencies to institutional borrowers and, in return, users receive interest payments.
Recently, the program faced challenges due to the bankruptcy of Genesis, a key partner in the lending process. However, as of May 2024, the Bankruptcy Court has confirmed Genesis’s Amended Plan, and initial distributions of digital assets to Earn users are expected by the end of May. This is a significant step towards resolution for users who have been affected by the suspension of redemptions since November 2022.
Gemini has emphasized its commitment to transparency throughout this process, updating users weekly and taking measures to enhance account security ahead of asset distribution. For those interested in the Gemini Earn program, it’s important to stay informed about the latest developments and understand the risks associated with lending digital assets.
The journey to this point has been complex, with Genesis Global navigating through bankruptcy proceedings to reach a settlement that would allow for the reimbursement of its creditors and investors. The court’s decision comes as a relief to many who have been awaiting the return of their investments.
The plan approved by the bankruptcy court judge entails Genesis Global repaying its creditors, which includes a substantial number of individuals who participated in the Gemini Earn program. This program, which was closely tied to the operations of Genesis, had been under scrutiny following the lender’s financial troubles.
The settlement agreement, which also received the green light from the New York attorney general, underscores the need for robust regulation in the cryptocurrency industry. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of consumer protection and the establishment of clear guidelines for the operation of crypto-related businesses.
For the customers of Gemini Earn, the end of the month could bring the much-anticipated return of their crypto assets. This move is not just about the refund; it’s a testament to the resilience of the cryptocurrency ecosystem and its ability to navigate through challenging times.
As the industry continues to evolve, this event will likely be looked back upon as a defining moment that helped shape the future of cryptocurrency regulation and consumer protection. The Genesis bankruptcy resolution may serve as a blueprint for similar situations in the future, providing a clearer path for the resolution of complex financial scenarios within the crypto space.
The implications of this development are far-reaching, affecting not only the parties directly involved but also setting a precedent for the industry at large. It highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and the need for a legal framework that can adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of digital finance.
As the cryptocurrency market matures, the Genesis case may well become a reference point for future regulatory discussions and decisions. It is a reminder that in the dynamic world of crypto, legal and financial structures must be in place to protect the interests of all stakeholders involved.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State has publicly tendered an apology for the poor governance executed in the state under its 24-year rule, after acknowledging the mistakes that led to its defeat in the 2023 general elections.
The apology was tendered during a press briefing held at the new PDP secretariat in Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, following a stakeholders meeting attended by 850 delegates from the state’s 17 council areas. There, the party also pledged to rectify its mistakes in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Elder Amah Abraham, the Vice Chairman and Acting State Publicity Secretary of the PDP addressed journalists, stating that the party had conducted a thorough review of the 2023 elections to understand and acknowledge its missteps.
“We did an assessment after the last general elections, we actually discovered why we lost the election and we took responsibilities and we’ve apologized,” Abraham said.
One of the critical areas identified was the party’s overemphasis on its welfarist agenda, which, according to Abraham, diverted resources away from essential state functions and created financial strain.
“We were carried away by our welfarist government where we were paying up to seven, nine and twelve thousand youths every month in the name of empowerment and we couldn’t manage our pension well, which is why we left a backlog of 45 months of pension arrears,” he explained.
The party also faced significant issues with accountability within its ranks, particularly concerning the management of state parastatals. Abraham noted that the party failed to hold certain appointees accountable for administrative lapses, leading to inefficiencies and financial mismanagement.
“We were reluctant in holding some persons appointed to head some parastatals in the state accountable for abusing administrative inputs which eventually led into serious problems in most of the parastatals,” he said.
The PDP has committed to making necessary adjustments to avoid repeating the same mistakes. Abraham highlighted that the party would be more prudent in its future welfare programs and ensure better management of state resources.
“If a government can pay 12 thousand youths as Special Assistants, Special Advisers, etc., if we had cut down 40% of that, we would have been able to use them to manage some of these 45 months and still have change,” Abraham remarked.
Abraham expressed confidence that the PDP will be the party to beat in the 2027 elections, citing ongoing efforts to strengthen the party’s structure and strategy.
“In the next one month, we’ll have an elaborate celebration here in Umuahia where we’ll be receiving many of them. Many are coming. Nature abhors a vacuum. When one vacates his seat, another will take over. I assure you that the PDP remains strong and that we’re the party to beat in the 2027 election,” he asserted.
As part of the PDP’s commitment to transparency, Abraham disclosed plans to release a detailed statement analyzing the current administration’s performance in Abia State.
“Soon, I’ll be releasing a special statement about the analysis the state working committee has done concerning this administration in Abia State and that statement is all-encompassing. By the time you go through that statement, you’ll know we have a lot of hope,” he said.
Governor Alex Otti’s Emergence, the Exposé on PDP’s Poor Governance
The PDP’s apology is believed to have stemmed from its resounding defeat in the last governorship election, which saw Alex Otti of the Labour Party (LP) emerge as Abia State governor. Also, Otti, who in one year, has given the state a facelift in a way many believed has surpassed the 24 years of the PDP leadership, is believed to have starkly exposed the depth of the party’s poor governance. It is believed to have also aggravated the growing apathy toward the PDP in the State.
Otti’s administration has taken significant steps to address the systemic issues that plagued the state under PDP rule. These efforts have not only endeared him to the people but also highlighted the inefficiencies and mismanagement that were rampant during the PDP’s tenure.
For instance, the governor has embarked on several infrastructure projects aimed at revitalizing Abia State. These include the construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and public buildings that had been neglected for years. His administration’s focus on improving infrastructure has brought immediate relief to many communities and showcased the neglect that characterized the PDP era.
In the health sector, Otti has initiated programs to upgrade healthcare facilities and ensure better service delivery.This includes the refurbishment of hospitals and the provision of essential medical equipment. Similarly, the education sector has seen reforms aimed at improving the quality of education, including the renovation of schools and the training of teachers.
One of the critical issues that Governor Otti has tackled is the backlog of pension and salary arrears.By prioritizing the payment of these arrears, Otti has not only relieved financial stress for many families but also exposed the extent of financial mismanagement under the previous administration. His commitment to ensuring that pensions and salaries are paid on time has restored confidence among public sector workers.
Furthermore, Otti’s administration has emphasized transparency and accountability in governance. By implementing stricter control and audit, his government has reduced corruption and ensured that public funds are used effectively. This focus on accountability has exposed the lax oversight and financial irregularities that were prevalent during the PDP’s rule.
These initiatives have not only addressed the immediate needs of Abia State residents but have also endeared the governor to the people. His hands-on approach and commitment to addressing long-standing issues have earned him widespread support and highlighted the stark contrast between his administration and that of the PDP.
Nigeria’s economy experienced a year-on-year GDP growth of 2.98% in the first quarter of 2024, according to the latest report from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
This growth, while higher than the 2.31% recorded in the first quarter of 2023, marks a decline from the 3.46% growth seen in the fourth quarter of 2023.
“The performance of the GDP in the first quarter of 2024 was driven mainly by the Services sector, which recorded a growth of 4.32% and contributed 58.04% to the aggregate GDP,” the NBS report highlighted.
In the first quarter of 2024, the agriculture sector showed signs of recovery, growing by 0.18%. This marks a notable improvement from the -0.90% contraction recorded in the same period last year. The industry sector also demonstrated growth, expanding by 2.19% in Q1 2024 compared to the 0.31% growth in Q1 2023.
These figures suggest a broad-based recovery across different sectors of the economy, highlighting the diversified nature of Nigeria’s economic growth.
Aggregate GDP in nominal terms stood at N58,855,142.27 million for Q1 2024, reflecting a year-on-year nominal growth of 14.86% from N51,242,151.21 million in Q1 2023.
“This increase in nominal GDP indicates not only economic growth but also inflationary pressures, as the value of goods and services produced in the economy has risen significantly,” the NBS said.
For better clarity, the Nigerian economy has been classified broadly into the oil and non-oil sectors. In the first quarter of 2024, Nigeria recorded an average daily oil production of 1.57 million barrels per day (mbpd), higher than the daily average production of 1.51 mbpd recorded in the same quarter of 2023 by 0.06 mbpd and slightly higher than the fourth quarter of 2023 production volume of 1.55 mbpd by 0.02 mbpd.
The real growth of the oil sector was 5.70% (year-on-year) in Q1 2024, indicating an increase of 9.91 percentage points relative to the rate recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2023 (-4.21%). However, growth decreased by 6.41 percentage points when compared to Q4 2023, which saw a growth rate of 12.11%. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the oil sector recorded a growth rate of 13.77% in Q1 2024.
“The Oil sector contributed 6.38% to the total real GDP in Q1 2024, up from the figure recorded in the corresponding period of 2023 and up from the preceding quarter, where it contributed 6.21% and 4.70% respectively,” the NBS noted.
This growth in the oil sector is crucial for Nigeria, given its significant contribution to foreign exchange earnings and government revenues.
The non-oil sector, which encompasses a wide range of economic activities outside the petroleum industry, grew by 2.80% in real terms during the reference quarter.
This growth rate was higher by 0.02 percentage points compared to the rate recorded in the same quarter of 2023 and 0.28 percentage points lower than the fourth quarter of 2023.
“This sector was driven in the first quarter of 2024 mainly by Financial and Insurance (Financial Institutions); Information and Communication (Telecommunications); Agriculture (Crop production); Trade; and Manufacturing (Food, Beverage, and Tobacco), accounting for positive GDP growth,” the report said.
In real terms, the non-oil sector contributed 93.62% to the nation’s GDP in the first quarter of 2024, lower than the share recorded in the first quarter of 2023, which was 93.79%, and lower than the fourth quarter of 2023, recorded at 95.30%.
Despite this positive trajectory, the country faces significant challenges due to persistently high inflation rates, which threaten to overshadow these economic gains. While these figures paint a picture of a growing economy, they are tempered by the reality of high inflation that continues to impact the purchasing power of Nigerians.
Economists note that the positive GDP growth, although encouraging, must be viewed within the context of an economy where inflationary pressures persist, eroding real income gains and increasing the cost of living for the average Nigerian. This economic challenge poses a significant threat to the sustainability of the growth trajectory observed in the first quarter of 2024.
Against this backdrop, economic experts and business leaders said that while Nigeria’s GDP growth in the first quarter of 2024 is a positive development, it is crucial to address the inflationary pressures that threaten to undermine these gains.
They urge Policymakers to focus on stabilizing the economy, curbing inflation, and ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for the population. Earlier, financial analysts had noted that the path to sustainable economic prosperity lies in balanced growth, where sectoral performances are not only robust but also inclusive, addressing the pressing issues of inflation and improving the overall quality of life for Nigerians.
