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Showing posts from April 7, 2025

Ten (10) Reasons Afenifere Wants Nigeria’s Security Architecture Redefined

In response to the growing wave of insecurity across Nigeria, particularly in the South-West region, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has renewed calls for a comprehensive redesign of the country's security framework. During its caucus meeting in Akure, the group highlighted several compelling reasons for their demand as hereunder discussed.  The reasons Afenifere wants Nigeria’s security architecture redefined are: 1. Rising Insecurity Across the Country: Afenifere expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of kidnappings, banditry, and extra-judicial killings in many parts of the country. Specific regions like Ogun, Oyo, Lagos, and Osun, along with states like Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna, have become flashpoints for violent crimes. 2. Lack of Coordinated Security Strategy: The group emphasized the urgent need for a more coordinated security approach. They urged the National Security Adviser to work closely with state governors to formulate joint strategies th...

Seven (7) Key Reasons Why Petrol Prices Remain High in Nigeria Despite Crude Oil Price Crash

INTRO: Despite the recent plunge in global crude oil prices, Nigerians have not seen a corresponding drop in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Instead, petrol prices continue to rise, with reports of retail prices ranging from N920 to N970 per litre. This paradox has sparked public concern and debate. Based on insights from the Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN), there are many reasons why petrol prices remain high as hereunder discussed. The reasons why petrol prices remain high in Nigeria despite crude oil price crash are: 1. Foreign Exchange (FX) Pressure: A key driver of high petrol prices is the persistent weakness of the naira. Although crude oil prices are falling globally, Nigerian refiners still depend heavily on foreign exchange to import or process petroleum products. The high exchange rate inflates the cost of refining and distributing petrol, offsetting any gains from the crude price crash. 2. Collapse of the Naira-for-Crude Deal: The nai...

Six (6) Reasons Why Southampton Sacked Manager Ivan Jurić After Premier League Relegation

INTRO: Southampton Football Club announced on April 7, 2025, the dismissal of manager Ivan Jurić, barely 24 hours after their relegation from the English Premier League was confirmed. The decision, though swift, was not unexpected given the club’s dismal performance throughout the season.  The reasons why Southampton sacked manager Ivan Jurić after Premier League relegation are: 1. Historic Early Relegation: Southampton’s relegation came with seven games still left to play in the 2024/2025 season, making it the earliest relegation in Premier League history. The previous records—held by Derby County in 2008 and Huddersfield Town in 2019—stood at six games remaining. This statistical milestone was a clear sign of managerial failure and a significant blow to the club's reputation, prompting urgent action. 2. Poor Performance Record: Under Jurić’s leadership, Southampton managed only a handful of wins while suffering 25 losses out of 31 matches. Such a record not only placed the team ...

Six (6) Reasons Why the CBN Intervened Amid Oil Price Drop and US Tariffs

INTRO: In April 7, 2025, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervened in the foreign exchange market with a $197.71 million injection, following a sharp decline in global oil prices triggered by new U.S. trade tariffs. This proactive move reflects a series of critical reasons tied to Nigeria’s economic structure, global market dynamics, and the CBN’s monetary policy objectives.  The reasons why the CBN intervened amid oil price drop and US tariffs are: 1. Decline in Crude Oil Prices:  Nigeria relies on crude oil for over 90% of its foreign exchange earnings. The drop in oil prices—over 12% to around $65.50 per barrel—posed an immediate threat to Nigeria's revenue and external reserves. A sustained dip in oil prices can reduce dollar inflow, weaken the naira, and destabilize the economy. CBN’s intervention was necessary to mitigate these risks. 2. Impact of U.S. Trade Tariffs on Global Markets:  The recent imposition of sweeping trade tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump...

Six (6) Reasons Why Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso Rejects Democracy

INTRO: In April 7, 2025, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, President of Burkina Faso, made headlines across Africa when he publicly declared that his country is not operating under a democracy but rather undergoing what he described as a “popular, progressive revolution.” Speaking during a flag-raising ceremony at Koulouba Palace, Traoré outlined several reasons why he believes democracy is not a suitable path for Burkina Faso or for developing nations more broadly.  The reasons why Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso rejects democracy are: 1. Democracy Does Not Guarantee Development:  Traoré boldly asserted that no country has developed through democratic governance. In his view, democracy is not the catalyst for development, but merely a by-product or “result” that comes after a nation has undergone a more fundamental transformation. He challenged the long-standing assumption that democratic institutions and free elections are essential precursors to progress. 2. Popular, Progressi...

Ten (10) Reasons Why 20 Governors Are Criticized for Delaying the N70,000 Minimum Wage

INTRO: Despite the signing of the Minimum Wage Act in 2024, which raised the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, many state governments across Nigeria have yet to fully implement the new policy — particularly at the local government level and for primary school teachers. Now, the governors are being chastised for it.  The reasons why 20 governors are criticized for delaying the N70,000 minimum wage are: 1. Partial Implementation of the Wage Law: While some states began paying the new minimum wage to state workers, they excluded local government workers and primary school teachers. This selective compliance has triggered outrage, particularly among labor unions like the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). 2. Neglect of LG Autonomy: The delay in issuing a circular by the Central Bank of Nigeria for LGAs to open independent bank accounts has hindered full autonomy. This has allowed state commissioners of finance to co...