Category: Opinion

Nigerians in Súàrá Sòbó bus By Festus Adedayo

Emporium Reporters

I have been asked severally what my opinion was on last week’s presidential media chat. First, I must commend the presidency for hosting the chat, though belatedly after 19 months of holding back. When the people hear directly from their leaders and not from third parties they didn’t elect, it affords them opportunity of psycho-analyzing the man at the helm of affairs, match his gestures with policies and project what the leadership’s future strides will be.   It was also gladsome to see the president radiating warmth, confidence and mastery…

Why Nigerians no longer want to pay tax (2), by Hassan Gimba

Emporium Reporters

There is no doubt that trust was the main determiner in making earlier citizens pay taxes willingly. There was trust in the leadership of the day and the knowledge that the taxes collected would not be misappropriated. Now, even the gate man in a motor park or market sees the tax he collects at the gate as his. Some have their tickets. When such collection points take the remaining proceeds to the next point, it gets “edited” until the process reaches its final pool, where a large number is collected…

APC mourns with Jigawa Governor Over Loss of Mother and Son

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed deep condolences to the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, following the tragic deaths of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Umar Namadi, and his son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi.   In a statement issued on Saturday by the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Felix Morka, the party described the double loss as a devastating tragedy for the Governor and the people of Jigawa State.   Hajiya Maryam Umar Namadi, a respected matriarch and a source of inspiration within her family and community, passed away…

DISSECTING PRESIDENT’S MEDIA CHAT (1) By Abba Dukawa

Emporium Reporters

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s last week Monday media chat has sparked intense debate among Nigerians. Even before the interview was aired Nigerians lost interest in listening it.for those watches it argued the chat was pre-recorded and carefully edited, which have prevented tough questions from being asked. Some question the choice of media outlets, suggesting that the president should have engaged with a broader range of journalists to ensure a more representative and challenging discussion. While Other segments of people point out that the chat demonstrated his confidence and commitment to…

Masters of Bitterness versus Okpebholo’s Increasing Trust in Edo State By Fred Itua

Emporium Reporters

In George Orwell’s Animal Farm, Napoleon, the pig rises to power not by virtue of competence or vision but by undermining others, spreading falsehoods, and manipulating the system to serve his selfish interests. Like Napoleon, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, after its crushing defeat in the 2024 governorship election, has adopted a strategy of sabotage. Incapable of delivering themselves, they now pour scorn on Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration, attempting to derail the progress he is committed to achieving.   Since losing the election, the PDP has displayed…

NAHCON in 2024: A Year of Achievements, Challenges, and Renewal. By Shafii Sani Mohammed

Emporium Reporters

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) experienced a transformative year in 2024, marked by operational successes, leadership changes, and steadfast efforts to enhance the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. Despite challenges, the Commission achieved remarkable milestones that strengthened its reputation as a reliable facilitator of the annual pilgrimage. NAHCON’s meticulous planning and execution of the 2024 Hajj operations resulted in several notable achievements: 1. Visa Issuance: For the first time, every pilgrim received their visa ahead of the commencement of airlift operations. This ensured a smooth start to the…

Leadership insights: 40 minutes with Governor Oyebanji (2) By abiodun KOMOLAFE

Emporium Reporters

*Legacy*   “I want to be remembered as a governor who always tells the truth. I don’t lie! My goal is to live in the hearts of Ekiti people, and I believe the key to achieving this is by staying connected with them and implementing policies that positively impact their lives. Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered as a governor who brought prosperity to our people, one who demonstrated responsible and responsive leadership.   “Chief Obafemi Awolowo is remembered more for his revolutionary policies, such as Free Education, than for…

The Role of the National Identification Number in Nigeria’s Socioeconomic Inclusion Programmes

Emporium Reporters

The importance of a robust National Identity Management System (NIMS) is globally evident as it serves as the foundation for programs and policies designed to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, social, or economic status, are included in social welfare opportunities and access to essential services. Nigeria is strategically positioned as Africa’s pacesetter by its population of over 220 million, a median age of 17.9 years, and the coexistence of over 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages, making it one of the most culturally diverse nations in the…

BETTY AKEREDOLU: How NOT to be a First Lady By Femi ODERE

Emporium Reporters

Although one may never know the color and texture of the animosity between now Gov Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State and Mrs. Betty Akeredolu, late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s wife and former First Lady that makes her almost always fly off the handle at the mention of her late husband’s name by the present government. Neither should it matter in the very least who wronged whom before one weighs in on what’s usually a one-sided brickbat always inexpertly advertised by Mrs. Akeredolu when an issue of public importance has to do…

Hunger, Stampedes and Death,by Olusegun Adeniyi

Emporium Reporters

I commiserate with the families who lost loved ones to the stampedes of recent days in Ibadan, Oyo State, Okija, Anambra State and Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT). There can be no greater tragedy than for anybody to die while looking for something to eat, especially during a festive season like this. So, for those in authority at all levels, the message should be clear. But from what I have been reading in recent days, it appears some may simply be looking for scapegoats while others are playing politics with…