The Crest

Tag: Abidemi Adebamiwa

  • Decisive Measures to End Nigeria’s Kidnapping Epidemic, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Decisive Measures to End Nigeria’s Kidnapping Epidemic, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Abidemi Adebamiwa
    Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria has escalated to a critical level, severely damaging the nation’s social fabric and undermining its security framework. Every day, Nigerians grapple with the fear of abduction—a crime that has transformed into a lucrative industry for criminal gangs. This epidemic inflicts profound trauma on victims and their families, depletes economic resources, and erodes public confidence in the government’s ability to provide protection. Faced with such a grave crisis, it is imperative to consider extraordinary measures, including the imposition of the death penalty on convicted kidnappers, to serve as a potent deterrent.

    According to the National Bureau of Statistics, from May 2023 to April 2024, Nigerians paid a staggering ₦2.23 trillion in ransoms. The “Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey” indicates that 65% of affected households had to secure their loved ones’ release at great financial cost, with an average ransom of ₦2.67 million per incident. These alarming statistics underscore not only the deepening security challenges but also the severe financial burden on households across the nation.

    Over the past year, more than 3,620 individuals have been abducted across 582 reported incidents, with ransom demands totaling nearly ₦5 billion (about $11 million). However, the actual scale of the crisis may be even larger due to many unreported cases. The recent high-profile kidnapping of Prince Eniola Ojajuni, a prominent Afenifere leader with a ransom demand of N100 million, underscores that no one is safe from these widespread criminal activities. This pervasive insecurity not only deters businesses from investing or expanding—resulting in job losses and hindered economic growth—but also makes foreign investors cautious due to the heightened security risks.

    Despite these challenges, the current countermeasures have proven inadequate. Nigerian authorities have made efforts through security force raids, engagements with bandits, and arrests, but these actions have only achieved limited success in deterring kidnappers. The lucrative nature of kidnapping-for-ransom makes it a calculated risk for criminals, who continue to operate with alarming boldness and efficiency.

    Moreover, the response from the legal system has been insufficient. Many convicted kidnappers receive lenient sentences that do not reflect the gravity of their crimes, thus failing to serve as a credible deterrent. For instance, a perpetrator involved in the infamous 2014 kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok received a mere 15-year prison term. Such leniency sends a troubling message and highlights the need for more severe penalties.

    Recent legal developments further complicate the punishment landscape for kidnappers. Notably, convicted kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, known as Evans, now a prison educator, has requested a plea bargain from the Lagos State High Court. He proposes surrendering assets, including 14 trucks, as compensation for his victims, citing his rehabilitation efforts through education and vocational training as grounds for sentence reduction. This situation underscores the challenges of reintegrating reformed criminals without undermining the severity of their offenses or compromising public safety.

    Internationally, debates on the scope of capital punishment reflect similar concerns, even extending to non-homicide offenses. In the United States, states like Florida and Tennessee have recently proposed laws that permit the death penalty for severe non-homicide crimes, such as sexual assault against minors, challenging the prevailing judicial norms established by the Supreme Court. These developments highlight a global divergence in perspectives on how to handle grave crimes, suggesting that some jurisdictions are willing to consider the death penalty for crimes less severe than murder.

    Given the ongoing crisis and the evident limitations of current measures in Nigeria, seriously considering making kidnapping a capital offense appears increasingly necessary. By elevating the severity of punishments, such a policy could act as a significant deterrent, especially for those criminals primarily motivated by financial gains. However, it is crucial to recognize that the death penalty alone may not resolve the broader issues associated with crime and security. It should be integrated into a wider strategy that includes enhanced security operations, superior intelligence gathering, and substantial socio-economic reforms to tackle the underlying causes of criminal activity.

    Drawing lessons from other nations like India, which has implemented stringent penalties for severe crimes, can offer crucial insights for Nigerian lawmakers. These international examples demonstrate that strict legal consequences can effectively deter crime when they are thoughtfully aligned with a country’s socio-political context. For Nigeria, devising laws that are both rigorous and equitable requires a deliberate balance to ensure that penalties not only deter criminal behavior but also withstand rigorous legal scrutiny. This approach ensures that new legislation is not only punitive but also just, adapted specifically to meet the unique needs and legal framework of Nigeria.

    The debate over capital punishment as a deterrent involves complex ethical, legal, and practical considerations that must be carefully weighed. Critics of the death penalty argue that it may not be more effective than life imprisonment at deterring crime, raising important questions about its utility and morality. Moreover, the implementation of such a severe measure requires robust safeguards to prevent miscarriages of justice and to protect the rights of the accused. Ensuring due process and maintaining judicial integrity is imperative to uphold the principles of justice and human rights, particularly when the stakes involve life and death decisions.

    Nigeria is at a pivotal moment in its struggle against rampant kidnapping. The proposal to implement capital punishment for kidnappers, while controversial, demonstrates the government’s commitment to protect its citizens and restore public trust. This severe measure reflects the urgency of combating a persistent threat. It’s a tough, necessary decision in the effort to maintain law and order.

    Abidemi Adebamiwa is the Managing Editor at Newspot Nigeria and a Ph.D. student with a background in Strategic Intelligence. He also has experience in combating human trafficking.

  • The Role of Law in Building a Free Press in Nigeria, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    The Role of Law in Building a Free Press in Nigeria, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    The relationship between law and journalism is essential in shaping democracies worldwide, but it’s often a rocky one. In Nigeria, the press plays a critical role in informing citizens and holding leaders accountable. However, the challenges journalists face are immense—censorship, restrictive laws, and threats to reporters make it difficult for journalism to thrive. Despite constitutional guarantees for free expression, Nigeria’s media environment remains fraught with risks and obstacles. By looking at the experiences of countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, Nigeria can learn effective ways to protect its journalists and build a stronger democracy.

    Nigeria’s ties to the United States and the United Kingdom make these comparisons particularly relevant. Nigeria’s adoption of a presidential system of government mirrors that of the United States, emphasizing the separation of powers and the role of checks and balances, including those provided by a free press. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s colonial past with the United Kingdom left a legacy of common law principles and a judiciary influenced by British traditions. These shared foundations underscore the importance of examining how these two nations approach press freedom within their distinct legal and cultural contexts. Understanding these ties highlights why insights from these countries are valuable for Nigeria’s journey toward strengthening press freedoms.

    Global rankings show how press freedom reflects a nation’s peace and stability. According to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2024, the United Kingdom ranks 34th, the United States 132nd, and Nigeria 147th out of 163 countries. These rankings highlight stark differences in societal conditions and the treatment of journalists. The UK’s high-ranking stems from its safety and the balance it strikes between press freedom and accountability. In contrast, the US’s score reflects political instability and increased violence, despite strong constitutional protections. Nigeria’s low-ranking points to its struggles with violence, restrictive laws, and a hostile environment for the press, making it one of the hardest places for journalists to work.

    The GPI also highlights how press freedom contributes to societal stability. Countries with strong protections for the media tend to have less violence and more trust between citizens and governments. In Nigeria, restrictive laws and attacks on journalists weaken public confidence in governance and the rule of law. When the press is under constant threat, it becomes harder for citizens to access reliable information or hold their leaders accountable. To build trust and ensure journalists can do their jobs effectively, Nigeria must address these systemic challenges head-on. A free and safe press is not just beneficial to journalists; it strengthens democracy and public trust.

    In the United States, the First Amendment guarantees freedom of the press, giving journalists the right to investigate and report without fear of retaliation. This legal foundation empowers the media to expose corruption and hold power to account. Landmark court rulings, like New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964), reinforce these protections by making it difficult for public officials to win defamation lawsuits unless they can prove “actual malice.” This ensures that journalists can report boldly on matters of public interest without undue fear of legal consequences. These protections are a cornerstone of the US’s framework for accountability and transparency in governance.

    However, even in the US, free speech has its limits, particularly when it comes to public safety. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969) ruled that speech inciting “imminent lawless action” is not protected. This decision reflects the careful balance between protecting freedom of expression and ensuring public safety. Nadine Strossen, a First Amendment expert, argues that the best way to combat harmful or hate speech is through “more speech, not enforced silence.” She emphasizes that open dialogue and education are more effective than suppressive laws, encouraging societies to tackle hate speech through counter-speech and constructive conversations. Nigeria could learn from this approach by encouraging public discourse rather than introducing laws that risk misuse, like the Social Media Bill.

    Nigeria’s challenges were especially visible during the #EndSARS protests in 2020, which highlighted police brutality and systemic abuses. Journalists covering the protests faced significant threats, including violence, arrests, and even death. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 12 journalists and five media outlets were attacked during the demonstrations. For example, Yakubu Mohammed, a reporter for Premium Times, described being beaten by police in Abuja: “He hit me with a gun butt.” Tragically, Pelumi Onifade, a young journalist covering the protests, was arrested and later found dead in a mortuary, showing just how dangerous reporting in Nigeria can be.

    These incidents underscore the hostile environment for journalists in Nigeria, despite constitutional protections for free expression and the press. The Nigerian Constitution of 1999 guarantees freedom of the press, but other laws often undermine these rights. For instance, the Cybercrime Act of 2015 has vague provisions that have been used to silence journalists under the pretext of combating online crimes. Similarly, the Anti-Terrorism Act has been used to target dissenting voices, creating a culture of fear among media practitioners. Criminal defamation laws further discourage journalists from reporting on sensitive topics, fostering self-censorship and weakening the media’s role as a watchdog.

    Nigeria’s judiciary plays a critical role in protecting press freedom, but it faces serious challenges that limit its effectiveness. Corruption, political interference, and delays in court proceedings undermine the judiciary’s ability to safeguard journalists’ rights. Ameze Guobadia, a Nigerian legal scholar, highlights that transparent and fair judicial appointments are essential for ensuring an independent judiciary. Without a strong and impartial judiciary, legal protections for the press remain ineffective, leaving journalists vulnerable to attacks and prosecution. Strengthening the judiciary is therefore key to creating an environment where press freedom can thrive.

    Comparing Nigeria with the US and UK provides valuable lessons for strengthening press freedom. In the UK, the Defamation Act of 2013 strikes a balance between free speech and protecting individuals from harmful falsehoods. While journalists face challenges such as stringent libel laws, the UK press benefits from a mix of self-regulation and legal protections. In the US, constitutional safeguards allow the press to operate independently, even in politically charged environments. Nigeria can draw from both models by adopting reforms that respect free expression while addressing harmful practices like defamation and hate speech.

    For Nigeria to move forward, it must focus on reforms that strengthen press freedom and protect journalists. Repealing laws like criminal defamation and limiting the misuse of the Cybercrime Act would create a safer environment for journalists to operate without fear. At the same time, fostering public discourse and education, as suggested by Nadine Strossen, can counter harmful speech without stifling free expression. Collaborating with international press organizations could provide Nigerian journalists with the training and resources needed to navigate these challenges. By prioritizing press freedom, Nigeria can build a stronger democracy where the media acts as a vital check on power.

    The media plays an essential role in democracy by exposing corruption, holding leaders accountable, and giving citizens a voice. In Nigeria, this role is especially crucial, given the country’s governance challenges and societal issues. However, without strong legal protections and a culture that values free expression, the press cannot fulfill its mission. Nigeria must act decisively to strengthen its legal frameworks, protect its journalists, and embrace a future where journalism thrives as a cornerstone of democracy. A free press is not just a media issue—it’s a democracy issue, and Nigeria’s progress depends on it.

    Abidemi Adebamiwa, with advanced degrees in law and public policy from Northwestern University, is a former Global Peace Index Ambassador.

  • Rachel Weeping for Her Children: Finding Hope for Nigeria this Christmas, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Rachel Weeping for Her Children: Finding Hope for Nigeria this Christmas, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    In the aftermath of the tragic stampede in Nigeria that took the lives of many, including children, the words from the Bible in Jeremiah 31:15 feel so real: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted because they are no more.” This verse paints a vivid picture of a mother’s deep sorrow, symbolizing the collective grief of a nation losing its children. This sorrow should remind us of the urgent need for unity and compassion in the face of such profound loss. For Nigeria, grappling with hardship and heartbreak, this moment must become a lesson—not an opportunity for political games, but a time for true leadership and healing.

    The reference to Ramah is significant. According to biblical commentaries like those in Matthew 2:18, Ramah was a location tied to immense sorrow—a place where Jewish captives were gathered before being taken into exile. In the New Testament, this verse is echoed to describe the anguish of mothers during King Herod’s massacre of the innocents. Rachel’s weeping transcends individual grief, symbolizing a communal mourning for lost innocence and life. As Christmas approaches, the resonance of this story deepens. Just as mothers mourned during the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, we too, as Nigerians, must share in the pain of grieving families affected by this tragedy. Their sorrow is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need for compassion.

    This recent stampede mirrors the sorrow captured in Jeremiah’s lament. Rachel’s weeping symbolized the heartbreak of a people torn apart by exile, a grief so profound it reverberates through history. Today’s tragedy echoes that anguish, as several incidents across Nigeria have claimed dozens of lives. In one instance, at least 32 people died in a stampede during a rush to collect Christmas gifts. Another report revealed the devastating loss of 10 lives, including children, at a charity event meant to bring relief.

    In yet another tragedy, the death toll at a food distribution center exceeded 50, leaving families shattered and communities in mourning. Festus Adedayo, in his poignant article “Harvest of Human Chickens for Christmas,” recounts the story of a mother who lost her newborn in the chaos, a life so young and innocent, gone in an instant. Separately, I also heard the heartbreaking story of another mother who had taken four children to a food distribution but tragically lost three of them in the chaos. These unimaginable losses expose the harsh reality of life for so many Nigerians, where even moments of goodwill can end in despair.

    Leadership is not about projecting invincibility but about showing compassion when things fall apart. Take former President Barack Obama as an example. During a memorial for slain peace officers in Dallas, he openly wept. This act of vulnerability was not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of deep care, which strengthened the bond between him and the American people. Having worked with an organization connected to Obama’s career, I have seen firsthand how such openness can create trust and a sense of shared purpose, inspiring hope even in the darkest times.

    Contrast this with leaders who attempt to appear unshakeable in moments that demand empathy and connection. For example, Donald Trump’s refusal to acknowledge his need for God’s forgiveness alienated many Christians, a key part of his political base. As someone who attended an evangelical institution deeply tied to Trump’s support during his election, I saw firsthand how such statements created unease within that community. Additionally, his premature departure from the hospital during his COVID-19 treatment—an effort to project strength—ultimately backfired, costing him both sympathy and credibility. Such actions demonstrated a disconnect between his leadership image and the emotional expectations of his followers. People need to see their leaders’ humanity, as it reassures them that their struggles and emotions are understood and shared.

    President Tinubu’s reliance on spokespersons to deliver “soft” messages after tragedies creates a sense of detachment. Nigerians need to see their president’s heart. A tear, a heartfelt speech, or an open show of grief could go a long way to heal the nation’s wounds. Leaders who don’t show they care risk appearing indifferent, which can deepen anger and disillusionment.

    That said, this is not a time for blame. Even with a free press, lashing out at Tinubu won’t help Nigeria heal. This tragedy demands collective mourning and a shared understanding of the loss and pain. Divisive criticism will only widen the gaps that need bridging.

    Beyond emotional leadership, practical solutions are essential. Take Nigeria’s fuel pricing issue: why should Nigerians pay international rates for fuel when they live in an oil-producing country? I’ve argued before that Dangote Refinery should sell fuel domestically at its production cost, not the global benchmark. Policies like this prioritize people over profits, demonstrating that leaders view citizens as individuals, not just statistics.

    Research underscores the importance of combining macroeconomic strategies with microeconomic realities. Articles like “Microeconomic Foundations of Macroeconomic Policy” highlight how integrating small-scale insights can improve large-scale plans. Leaders who focus solely on broad numbers often miss the lived struggles of real families. For example, “Microeconomic Behavior and Macroeconomic Outcomes” explains that effective policies must address daily challenges. By blending these perspectives, governments can create solutions that are fair and meaningful.

    History also teaches us that the greatest leaders—from Abraham Lincoln to Nelson Mandela—embraced vulnerability. Lincoln’s emotional speeches during the Civil War and Mandela’s tireless reconciliation efforts after apartheid united their people. They understood that true strength comes from compassion and connection.

    President Tinubu has a rare and pivotal opportunity to lead Nigeria through this moment of sorrow and despair. By demonstrating genuine care for the Nigerian people, he can rebuild trust and foster unity in a time of deep division. True leadership lies in vulnerability, which shows authenticity and strength. When a leader connects with the emotions of their people, it creates solidarity and a shared sense of purpose. This is Tinubu’s chance to demonstrate that genuine empathy and humanity are far more powerful than political posturing.

    So, what can President Tinubu do? First, he must address Nigerians directly, speaking not just as a leader but as a fellow human being who shares their grief. Honesty and vulnerability are powerful tools; they allow people to connect with their leader on a personal level. A heartfelt message, delivered with genuine emotion, can provide solace and restore trust during these painful times.

    Second, beyond words, he must take immediate steps to alleviate the everyday struggles that weigh heavily on Nigerians. Policies like reducing fuel prices to reflect the cost of domestic production, rather than international benchmarks, can offer tangible relief. Such actions signal that the government prioritizes the welfare of its citizens over profit margins or bureaucratic inertia.

    Finally, President Tinubu must cultivate a culture of empathy within his administration. This means creating a government that listens, understands, and acts on the needs of the people. By embedding compassion into policymaking and governance, he can rebuild faith in leadership and lay the foundation for a more unified and resilient Nigeria.

    Jeremiah 31:15 reminds us of the profound sorrow that accompanies loss, but it also shines a light on the promise of hope and renewal. As we reflect on this tragedy, it mustn’t inspire despair but a collective resolve to create a more compassionate and unified Nigeria. Let us hold the grieving families in our hearts, offering them solace through our empathy and solidarity.

    At the same time, we must look forward with determination, committing ourselves as a nation to the path of healing and restoration. We must ensure that such sorrow does not define our future but instead inspires meaningful change. Let us pray for the strength to rise above these challenges and for the wisdom to address the deep-rooted issues that have led us here. Unity is key; it is what binds us together as a nation and gives us the resilience to rebuild in the face of adversity. Together, let us envision a future where peace and compassion triumph over pain and despair, offering hope to the grieving families and to all Nigerians.

  • Climbing Nigeria’s Tax Ladder: How It Impacts You and Your State, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Climbing Nigeria’s Tax Ladder: How It Impacts You and Your State, By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    Nigeria’s proposed tax reforms bring significant changes to how income, business profits, and state revenues are taxed. These reforms aim to simplify the tax system while making it fairer for everyone. Let’s break it down together and see what these changes mean for you.

    Picture this: your income is like a staircase, and as you climb higher, each step represents a portion of your earnings. Only the money on each step is taxed at its specific rate. For example, if you’re earning ₦2.5 million, the first ₦800,000 is completely tax-free (0%). The next ₦1.4 million is taxed at 15%, and the remaining ₦300,000 is taxed at 18%. This ensures that as you earn more, you pay more—but only for the part that’s on the higher steps. This way, higher earners contribute more to public services, while those with lower incomes are protected.

    Now let’s talk about businesses. Imagine you run a small shop making less than ₦50 million a year—good news, you don’t pay any corporate tax! This rule is here to help smaller businesses grow without heavy tax burdens. But if your business is booming and earns more, taxes kick in based on your profits. This ensures fairness and helps fund the schools, roads, and services that support everyone, including your business.

    For businesses investing in innovation, there’s a great incentive. Companies can deduct up to 5% of their turnover for research and development (R&D) expenses. This deduction not only helps businesses innovate but also ensures they give back to the economy when commercializing their new products or services.

    Now, imagine VAT revenue as a delicious pie. The Federal Government gets the smallest slice—10%, while the States take the largest slice—55% and Local Governments enjoy a 35% share. Let’s put it in numbers. If ₦100 billion in VAT is collected, the Federal Government keeps ₦10 billion, the States share ₦55 billion, and Local Governments get ₦35 billion.

    Here’s where derivation kicks in. Imagine Lagos generates ₦30 billion in VAT out of the ₦100 billion total. Under the derivation principle, 60% of the ₦55 billion allocated to states, which is ₦33 billion, is shared based on where the VAT was generated. So, Lagos would get ₦9.9 billion (30% of the ₦33 billion), while a state like Yobe, generating just ₦2 billion, would receive ₦660 million (2% of the ₦33 billion).

    To make this clearer, imagine another hypothetical scenario. If Kano generates ₦10 billion in VAT, it would receive 10% of the ₦33 billion derivation pool, amounting to ₦3.3 billion. Similarly, a smaller state like Ebonyi, generating ₦1 billion, would receive ₦330 million from the derivation share. However, the remaining 40% of the state allocation, or ₦22 billion, is distributed equally or based on equity factors like population, ensuring states like Yobe or Ebonyi still get enough to fund schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.

    This balance ensures that economically active states like Lagos and Kano are rewarded for driving growth, while less active states like Yobe and Ebonyi still receive enough support to meet essential needs. It’s a system that combines rewards for hard work with a safety net to ensure every state thrives.

    For individuals, these tax brackets ensure that people earning less keep more of their income. For businesses, they create room for growth while encouraging compliance. For states, they provide incentives to boost local economies while ensuring fairness in revenue distribution.

    Tax systems can seem complicated, but at their heart, they’re about fairness and ensuring everyone contributes their share. Whether you’re a student dreaming of your first job, a shop owner looking to expand, or a state government managing resources, these reforms aim to build a stronger, more inclusive future. What do you think? Let’s discuss how these changes might impact you!

  • A Bold Plan to Crush Inflation in Nigeria: The Time to Act is NOW! By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    A Bold Plan to Crush Inflation in Nigeria: The Time to Act is NOW! By Abidemi Adebamiwa

    a Ph.D. student in the USA.

     

    A Bold Plan to Crush Inflation in Nigeria: The Time to Act is NOW! By Abidemi Adebamiwa.

    Overview

    Inflation is strangling the average Nigerian. Food prices are skyrocketing, transport costs are unbearable, and housing is out of reach. But here’s the truth: this crisis can be fixed—if we act quickly and decisively. This plan offers clear, powerful steps to bring down prices, eliminate wasteful spending, and fight corruption at its core. It’s not just a wish list—it’s a demand for action. By focusing on solutions that have worked elsewhere, this approach can bring real change and make life better for all Nigerians.

    The situation is Dire—and Urgent

    Nigeria is in the middle of an economic storm. The naira is losing its value, food is too expensive, and corruption is making everything worse. This isn’t a time for empty promises or politics as usual. It’s time for bold, results-driven leadership that’s willing to make tough decisions. Inflation is not just an economic issue; it’s a daily hardship for millions of Nigerians. But it’s a battle we can win—if we make the right moves now.

    What the Government MUST Do—Right Now

    Adjust Monetary Policy to Protect the Naira

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) must act now to strengthen the naira and stabilize inflation.
    Why It Works: India faced a similar crisis and turned it around by revising its monetary policies. They stabilized their currency and controlled inflation. Nigeria has the same potential—if we act swiftly.

    Fix Our Broken Supply Chains

    Nigeria’s goods must move faster and cheaper. Better infrastructure will bring down prices and make essentials more affordable.

    Why It Works: Indonesia, another oil-rich nation, invested in better infrastructure to reduce costs and control inflation. Nigeria, with similar challenges, can achieve the same success by improving its roads, ports, and railways.

    Empower Our Farmers to Feed the Nation

    Nigeria’s farmers can feed the country—but they need support. Fertilizers, seeds, and modern tools will boost local food production and reduce dependency on costly imports.

    Why It Works: Brazil’s “More Food” program helped farmers increase production and stabilize food prices. Nigeria’s vast agricultural sector can do the same, but only if farmers receive the tools they need to succeed.

    Control Prices on Essential Goods NOW

    While we work on longer-term solutions, temporary price controls on key goods like rice, oil, and sugar can give immediate relief to struggling families.

    Why It Works: Argentina’s price freezes provided immediate relief during a similar inflation crisis. If it worked there, it could work here.

    Support Local Manufacturing and Create Jobs

    Give tax breaks to companies that manufacture essential goods right here in Nigeria. This will make goods cheaper, create jobs, and reduce import dependency.

    Why It Works: South Africa did exactly this—lowering production costs and stabilizing prices while creating more jobs. Nigeria has even greater potential to grow its industries and reduce prices.

    Teach Nigerians How to Manage Money Better

    Launch a nationwide campaign to teach people about smart financial management and the benefits of buying local products.

    Why It Works: Kenya’s “Buy Kenyan, Build Kenya” campaign encouraged people to buy local, reducing inflation and boosting domestic industries. Nigerians are resilient and adaptable—this campaign can work here, too.

    Corruption: The Real Enemy of Progress

    Corruption is not just hurting the economy—it’s bleeding the country dry. Every naira stolen is a naira that could have lowered prices, created jobs, or improved public services. It’s time to attack corruption head-on.

    Make Government Services Digital

    Move everything from business registrations to land approvals online. Less human contact means less bribery.

    Why It Works: Estonia, once a struggling country, became one of Europe’s least corrupt nations by going digital. If it can work in Europe, it can work in Nigeria.

    Empower Anti-Corruption Agencies

    Give more resources and real authority to the EFCC and ICPC to investigate and prosecute corruption cases quickly and effectively.

    Why It Works: Indonesia’s anti-corruption commission tackled big cases, won public trust, and improved the economy. Nigeria’s agencies can achieve the same results with the right support.

    End Wasteful Spending and Redirect Funds

    Stop the bleeding of public funds, especially in agriculture and infrastructure projects. We need stricter audits and accountability.

    Why It Works: Ghana reformed its financial systems to cut waste and redirect funds to where they were needed most. The results? Lower inflation and better services for the people. Nigeria must do the same.

    Protect Whistleblowers

    Whistleblowers must be protected, not punished. Encourage more Nigerians to come forward and expose corruption without fear.

    Why It Works: South Korea’s whistleblower protection laws increased reporting of corruption, making government operations more efficient. Nigeria’s laws must be strengthened to protect those who speak out.

    Recover Stolen Money and Put It to Work

    Aggressively pursue stolen funds and reinvest them in agriculture, education, and healthcare.

    Why It Works: Peru recovered stolen assets and invested them back into public projects, improving services and reducing inflation. Nigeria can turn stolen wealth into real progress.

    Bring in the Best Brains—We Need Experts, Not Politicians

    It’s time to let experts, not career politicians, take charge of solving this crisis. The economy is too fragile for trial and error.

    Hire Independent Experts

    Bring in top technocrats—seasoned professionals, including Nigerians from abroad—who know how to stabilize economies and deliver results.

    Why It Works: India and Brazil both relied on technocrats to lead economic reforms, and it worked. Nigeria can achieve even more with the right people leading the charge.

    Meet Regularly with Experts

    Convene roundtable discussions with economic experts, business leaders, and civil society to keep solutions fresh, practical, and focused on the needs of ordinary Nigerians.

    Ensure Fast and Effective Implementation

    Use skilled project managers to ensure that government projects are done on time and within budget. This will prevent the usual delays and inefficiencies that hold Nigeria back.

    Cut Government Waste—Every Naira Saved Can Help Nigerians

    The cost of running the government is too high, and the average Nigerian is paying the price. This must change—immediately.

    Slash Unnecessary Spending

    Reduce excessive allowances, non-essential travel, and wasteful programs. The savings can be used to support measures that fight inflation.

    Why It Works: South Africa reduced administrative costs and used the savings to support social programs during economic hardship. Nigeria can do even more.

    Make the Government Leaner

    Simplify government structures to eliminate waste and improve service delivery. Focus spending on what truly matters.

    Why It Works: Kenya streamlined its government during a crisis, leading to better resource allocation. Nigeria can learn from this and do better.

    Make Spending Transparent

    Use digital tools to track and publicly share how government money is spent. This will reduce corruption and build trust.
    Why It Works: Rwanda’s open budgeting system reduced waste and built public confidence, improving the economy. Nigeria should adopt this approach to make every naira count.

    A Call for Bold, Decisive Leadership—No More Excuses

    Nigeria is at a breaking point, and Nigerians are demanding action. This plan is not just a set of recommendations—it’s a demand for bold, urgent change. The people need leadership that prioritizes results, cuts waste, and tackles corruption head-on.

    President Tinubu, the time to act is now. Convene an emergency meeting with experts and key stakeholders and implement this plan. The Nigerian people cannot wait any longer.

    The clock is ticking. Inflation must be crushed, trust must be restored, and Nigeria’s potential must be unleashed. The country deserves a future where basic goods are affordable, jobs are plenty, and corruption is a thing of the past.

    Let’s make it happen—together.

    Abidemi Adebamiwa, a Political and policy analyst writes from Pleasanton, California, United States of America

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