By Fredrick Nwabufo

The intangibles of leadership are as potent and profound as the corporeal manifestations of governance. A people must not only see the brick-and-mortar elements of leadership; they must also feel and sense leadership in its quantum of compassion, healing, solace, and capacity to inspire unity, as well as foster peace and progress.

In fact, the incorporeal constituents of leadership are so important that citizens may not see utility in improved economic well-being and massive industrial transformation, if the leadership does not manage the delicate confluences of social and psychological needs.

In some of my treatises as a columnist years ago, I had written that beyond other rudimentary ingredients and supplements of leadership, Nigeria needs a leader who is a healer-in-chief and a unifier by example. A leader who has the proclivity and deliberateness to bring the nation together.

I am most delighted and proud to say Nigeria has found its healer-in-chief; its unifier by example, and consoler-in-chief in President Bola Tinubu. He is the President for all Nigerians.

It has been President Tinubu’s one year of healing and unifying Nigeria. In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, the President made a declaration that has become a defining motif of his administration.

He said: “Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own. We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear, and injure it.”

And true to his promise, President Tinubu has been listening and reaching out to Nigerians of diverse complexions and artificial partitions, as well as mending and healing the nation.

Healing and unifying the nation, how, you might ask? By personal example; in words and in deeds. There is no greater purpose and value to leadership than personal example. The place of leadership in forging bonds of communality is the place of purpose and deliberateness. Leadership must be deliberate in managing diversity and in fostering kinship among variegated people. Nation building cannot be left to chance or to a whim. There must be purposive plans and actions towards uniting the people. And these plans and actions, President Tinubu has been successful at carrying through in the past one year.

The President has maintained an accustomed patriotic, graceful, and expansive mien. In his public statements, mostly done extempore, he has always faithfully affirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

In one of his many noble articulations, he said, “I am irrevocably committed to the unity of Nigeria and constitutional democracy. Constitutional democracy has been reflected greatly here since we assumed office.”

Also to consider are the broad and far-reaching projects and programmes which are in themselves totems of unity – with all Nigerians, irrespective of class or creed, as beneficiaries and potential beneficiaries.

The approval of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund to facilitate effective infrastructure development across the pivotal areas of agriculture, transportation, ports, aviation, energy, healthcare, and education, with salient projects across the country is a further affirmation of statesmanship and leadership.

The ongoing epochal Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, with its attendant immense economic and social benefits to many states within and outside that corridor; the Sokoto-Badagry Road project, and the completed Port Harcourt to Aba stretch of the Port Harcourt to Maiduguri narrow-gauge rail, among other key developments across the nation, assert the all-encompassing and genuine intentionality to nation building. No Nigerian is left behind.

Within the first year, the President also approved the upgrade of key health infrastructure and equipment across all six geo-political zones in line with his administration’s vision of overhauling the health and social welfare sector for enhanced service delivery to all Nigerians.

The following teaching hospitals across the geo-political zones were marked for the establishment of oncology and nuclear medicine centres as part of the President’s bid to ensure that top-tier cancer diagnosis and care is accessible across the country: (1) University of Benin Teaching Hospital, (2) Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, (3) University of Nigeria (Nsukka) Teaching Hospital, (4) Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, (5) University of Jos Teaching Hospital, and (6) Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

Ten other hospitals across all the geo-political zones were also pencilled for critical healthcare-service expansion projects across the fields of radiology, clinical pathology, medical and radiation oncology, and cardiac catheterisation.

The take-off of the first phase of the Consumer Credit Scheme, which is essentially a mitochondrion enabling citizens to improve their quality of life by accessing goods and services upfront, paying responsibly over time, and by the same token bolstering local industry and stimulating job creation is another social cohesion sealant – with all classes of working Nigerians as beneficiaries.  In summary, the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) with the pre-eminent vision of safeguarding Nigeria’s future by ensuring that all Nigerian students and youths, regardless of their social, ethnic, or religious backgrounds, have access to sustainable higher education and functional skills, further accents the President’s fidelity to building a stable, strong, united, peaceful, and progressive nation.

One thing is certain: Citizens agree that they have a President for all Nigerians.

By Kenechukwu Aguolu ([email protected])

The call for state police resonates deeply with a fundamental yearning for safety and security. It embodies a collective aspiration for a society where lives and properties are safeguarded, and individuals can thrive without fear. The argument for state police rests on three pivotal points, each accentuating potential benefits that could significantly enhance the nation’s security landscape:

1. Increased Responsiveness: The proposition of state police is centered on establishing a command and control structure closer to the communities they serve. This proximity promises faster response times to incidents and enables more immediate intervention during emergencies. By bridging the gap between law enforcement agencies and local communities, state police units can effectively address security threats with agility and precision.
2. Local Knowledge: State police officers, being indigenous to their communities, are believed to possess an unparalleled understanding of local dynamics and crime patterns. This intimate familiarity equips them with the insights needed to devise targeted crime-fighting strategies tailored to the specific needs of each locality. By leveraging this deep-seated knowledge, state police units can effectively combat crime at its roots, thereby enhancing overall safety and security.
3. Commitment to Peace: There exists a prevailing belief that state police officers, hailing from the areas they serve, would demonstrate a heightened commitment to maintaining peace and order. This intrinsic connection to their communities fosters a sense of duty and responsibility, driving greater dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. By forging strong bonds with the local populace, state police units can cultivate trust and cooperation, essential for effective community policing.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical context surrounding state police in Nigeria. Past instances of abuse led to its abolition during the military era. Also, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for overfamiliarity and bias among officers stationed in their localities. The close ties between law enforcement personnel and the communities they serve may lead to reluctance to enforce the law objectively, particularly when dealing with acquaintances or relatives. Additionally, doubts persist regarding the ability of state governments to adequately fund state police, posing significant challenges to the viability.

Regardless of the chosen approach—whether through the introduction of state police or the maintenance of the current system—certain foundational elements are indispensable for building an effective policing:

1. Right Recruitment: The selection of individuals with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to public service through rigorous screening processes is paramount. By upholding stringent standards in recruitment, law enforcement agencies can ensure that only the most qualified candidates are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding communities.
2. Adequate Staffing: Nigeria’s police force currently falls short of international standards for officer-to-citizen ratios, underscoring the urgent need for increased staffing levels. Addressing this shortfall is crucial, particularly given the country’s security challenges. Adequate staffing not only enhances the effectiveness of policing efforts but also fosters a sense of security and reassurance among the populace.
3. Training and Equipment: Ongoing training programs are essential to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Additionally, providing police personnel with modern equipment and resources enhances their capacity to maintain law and order in their communities. By investing in training and equipment, law enforcement agencies can ensure that officers are adequately equipped to tackle emerging security threats.
4. Proper Funding: Adequate financial investment in law enforcement is necessary to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of policing efforts. This includes budget allocations for operational expenses, infrastructure development, and technological advancements to enhance crime prevention and detection capabilities. By prioritising funding for law enforcement, governments demonstrate a commitment to the safety and security of their citizens.
5. Adequate Welfare: Competitive salaries, allowances, accommodation, and comprehensive welfare packages are essential to attract and retain qualified officers. Providing life insurance plans and other benefits demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of law enforcement personnel and their families. By prioritising officer welfare, the government can enhance morale and retention rates, ensuring effectiveness in policing efforts.

While Nigeria has made commendable progress in reducing insecurity, it is imperative to recognise that security agents alone cannot solve the complex security challenges facing the nation. A holistic approach that addresses socio-economic factors, strengthens the justice system, and prioritizes education is essential.

In conclusion, the pursuit of state police in Nigeria embodies a profound yearning for safety and security—a desire to create a society where individuals can live free from fear and insecurity. While challenges abound and skepticism persists, the potential benefits of state police cannot be ignored. By addressing historical concerns, investing in foundational elements of effective policing, and adopting a holistic approach to crime prevention, Nigeria can chart a path towards a safer and more prosperous future for all its citizens.

By Paulyn Owhievbie Ugbodaga ([email protected])

Press freedom stands as a cornerstone of democracy, a vital pillar that upholds transparency, accountability, and the fundamental rights of citizens. In Nigeria, a nation rich in diversity and complexity, the landscape of press freedom is interspersed with both progress and challenges. As journalists strive to uncover truths and hold power to account, they often find themselves navigating a terrain fraught with obstacles.

Nigeria’s journey toward press freedom has been a turbulent one, marked by periods of repression and resilience. Following independence in 1960, the Nigerian press emerged as a vibrant force, serving as a watchdog and voice for the people. However, the military regimes that dominated much of Nigeria’s early history often viewed press freedom as a threat to their authority. Journalists faced censorship, harassment, and imprisonment, as the government sought to control the flow of information.

In recent decades, Nigeria has made significant strides toward enhancing press freedom. The transition to civilian rule in 1999 brought renewed hope for a free and independent media. Constitutional guarantees of press freedom, coupled with the proliferation of independent media outlets, signaled a promising era for journalism in Nigeria.

However, challenges persist, casting a shadow over these advancements. Intimidation, harassment, and violence against journalists remain prevalent, particularly in conflict-prone regions and areas with entrenched political interests. Reporters covering sensitive topics such as corruption, human rights abuses, and religious extremism often face threats to their safety and livelihoods.

Nigeria boasts a legal framework that ostensibly protects press freedom. The 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and the press, while legislation such as the Freedom of Information Act seeks to promote transparency and accountability. Despite these legal safeguards, the enforcement and interpretation of these laws can be inconsistent, leaving journalists vulnerable to arbitrary arrest, prosecution, and censorship.

Beyond legal and physical threats, economic factors pose significant challenges to press freedom in Nigeria. Many media organisations struggle to sustain themselves financially, relying on advertising revenue and government subsidies to stay afloat. This dependence can compromise editorial independence, as media outlets may prioritise commercial interests over journalistic integrity. Additionally, low wages and precarious working conditions contribute to a culture of self-censorship, as journalists grapple with the fear of reprisals for daring to speak truth to power.

Amidst these challenges, the rise of digital media has emerged as a double-edged sword for press freedom in Nigeria. On one hand, social media platforms offer unprecedented opportunities for citizen journalism and grassroots activism, empowering individuals to disseminate information and amplify marginalised voices. On the other hand, online spaces can be breeding grounds for misinformation, hate speech, and digital censorship, exacerbating existing tensions and undermining public trust in traditional media.

As Nigeria navigates the complexities of press freedom in the 21st century, there is a pressing need for concerted action to safeguard the rights of journalists and uphold the principles of a free and independent press. Government authorities must demonstrate a commitment to upholding constitutional guarantees of press freedom, by refraining from undue interference in media operations and ensuring accountability for attacks against journalists.

Civil society organisations, advocacy groups, and international partners also have a crucial role to play in supporting the media community, providing training, legal assistance, and advocacy efforts to strengthen journalistic practices and defend press freedom rights.

In the pursuit of truth and accountability, journalists in Nigeria continue to defy adversity, risking their safety and livelihoods to shine a light on issues of public concern. Their resilience serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring a new generation of reporters to uphold the principles of press freedom and safeguard democracy for generations to come. As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of the modern media landscape, it is imperative that we stand united in our commitment to defending the rights of journalists to speak truth to power.

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