* To commission International Muslim cemetery June 30
The National Headquarters of The Muslim Congress (TMC) has declared that the reccuring petroleum scarcity in the country requires urgent action by the federal government and other stakeholders.
The Committee on Social Mobility, the Economy and Politics headed by the President of the leading faith-based organisation in Nigeria, Alhaji Abdul Wasi’ Bangbala made the call recently during a State of the Nation address.
Alhaji Bangbala also said that the Nigerian power sector is facing a severe crisis with frequent electricity outages, grid collapses, and blame games among stakeholders, leading to economic hardships and security threats.
According to him, the Nigerian power sector is facing a severe crisis with frequent electricity outages, grid collapses, and blame games among stakeholders, leading to economic hardships and security threats. Some of the key issues attributed to the power crisis include gas supply shortages, vandalism, maintenance problems, and energy theft.
“It is rather unfortunate that despite efforts to reform the sector since the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), power generation remains low, necessitating urgent comprehensive reforms for sustainable and reliable electricity supply.”
He noted that the challenges in the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) call for experienced operators through a transparent privatization process to enhance power transmission capacity.
“The ineffective enforcement of threats to revoke licenses of underperforming Distribution Companies (DisCos) underscores governance challenges, thus providing grounds for contract reviews and possible terminations for non-compliance to improve sector efficiency.
“With Nigeria’s stagnant electricity generation capacity and the need for alternative energy sources, restructuring and investments in hydro, coal, solar and wind energy are essential for the sector’s improvement and national development. Though, the crisis in the power sector is acute, there should be a more coherent plan to mitigate the challenges beyond hiking the tariffs.
He, therefore, directed a call to action towards the President Tinubu-led administration, alongside key stakeholders, to take all necessary steps required to address the worsening electricity crisis forthwith, ensuring a reliable power supply for all citizens and thereby promoting economic development.
The committee also addressed a number of contemporary issues as captured below:
YORUBA NATION AGITATORS’ IBADAN INCURSION: A WAKE-UP CALL FOR BOOSTING SECURITY
The recent incursion by a group of secessionists operating as Ominira Yoruba 22, who attempted to seize the Oyo State Government Secretariat on 13 April, represents a dangerous and treasonous act that has raised concerns in the country. Despite the thwarting of their plans by the security forces, their ultimate goal was to violently take over the state’s House of Assembly and Government House in Ibadan, following their declaration of the Yoruba Nation as an independent entity separate from Nigeria. Considering the past costs of similar reckless endeavours, it was assumed that such bold and risky ventures would be a thing of the past. Unfortunately, this has not been so, as the political elite’s continual trifling with the very important task of nation-building has contributed to the rise of ethnic militias advocating for self-determination. And as efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the sponsors of these individuals, it is crucial that all involved are swiftly brought to justice to deter similar actions in the future. The security breach in Ibadan has also revealed the inadequacies within the Nigerian Police Force and intelligence agencies, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures to address the evolving security challenges facing the nation. We, therefore, call upon the authorities to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and take decisive action to tackle the underlying causes of these security threats.
OUNJE EKO: COMMENDING LAGOS STATE’S COMMITMENT TO FOOD SECURITY
The commencement of discounted markets for staple foods, known as ‘Ounje Eko’, at 27 locations in Lagos State a few weeks ago is a positive development. This initiative, part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s efforts to alleviate the impact of rising inflation following the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government, demonstrates a commitment to easing the economic hardship faced by millions of residents. The significant turnout at these markets underscores the urgent need for such measures.
However, there are concerns about the coordination and efficiency of the implementation process, with reports indicating slow and cumbersome procedures causing stress for participants. It is essential that these issues are addressed promptly. It is also worthy of note that extending the program further is crucial, considering that inflation, which the programme is designed to ameliorate, is expected to persist for some time.
The Lagos State Government’s focus on food accessibility and affordability, exemplified by initiatives like the Lagos Fresh Food Agro-Hub in Idi-Oro, Mushin, is laudable. And in light of this, we hope the Sanwo-Olu-led government will maximize the capacity of its rice mills to increase rice availability in the market and thereby bolster food supply in the State while alleviating the impact of rising food prices. We also urge other state governments to emulate Lagos State’s strategies in addressing food security challenges.
INTERNATIONAL WORKERS DAY: NIGERIA’S WORKERS DESERVE BETTER
We extend our congratulations to Nigerian workers as they join the rest of the world in marking the International Workers Day. Despite facing economic challenges due to subsidy removal, resulting in a severe economic crisis and highest inflation rate in decades, workers continue to persevere. The increased prices have significantly impacted their purchasing power, leading to difficulties in affording daily necessities. Both federal and state governments have fallen short in providing promised support, leading to a lack of tangible actions to alleviate the situation. We, therefore, call on both the federal and state governments to promptly enforce the palliatives announced by President Tinubu in 2023, which include the immediate implementation of a new national minimum wage to enhance workers’ well-being. It is crucial to bring to effect food price stabilization measures to alleviate the burden of basic necessities. We salute the resilience of the Nigerian workers and encourage them to enhance their productivity. Government must ensure workers receive living wages for decent livelihoods. Indeed, Nigerian workers deserve a fresh approach, and the time for action is now. Happy Workers Day to all Nigerian workers!
THE LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY PROJECT AND ITS POTENTIAL FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project proposed by the Tinubu government is a significant infrastructure initiative with potential to bring about numerous benefits for the people. This ambitious project aims to enhance transportation connectivity, boost economic growth, create job opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents along the coastal area. The construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would undoubtedly provide a vital link between key cities and communities, facilitating smoother travel and transportation of goods and services. This improved connectivity can spur economic development by attracting investments, boosting tourism, and stimulating trade activities along the coastal corridor. While the benefits of the proposed coastal highway project are promising, it is crucial for the government to ensure transparency in the financing and execution of the project. Addressing the concerns raised by critics of the project is essential to build trust and garner support from the public. Open communication and willingness to engage with stakeholders, including answering their questions and clarifying any uncertainties, are key to fostering transparency and accountability in the project implementation process. To allay the fears of those whose properties are affected by the coastal road project, the authorities should prioritize community engagement and consultation. By involving the affected residents in the decision-making process, listening to their concerns, and addressing their needs, the government can mitigate potential conflicts and ensure that the project proceeds in a manner that is considerate of the local communities’ interests.
THE INTERNATIONAL MUSLIM CEMETERY: COMMISSIONING AN ENDURING LEGACY
As The Muslim Congress (TMC) prepares to commission its International Muslim Cemetery (IMC), we extend a heartfelt call to the Ogun State government, as well as individuals and corporations of goodwill, to join hands in supporting this significant endeavour. This cemetery stands as a revered final resting place for the departed, offering solace and closure to their families and loved ones. The lack of such facilities has posed great challenges for the Muslim community, particularly in the southwest. Located in the tranquil Iberekodo Village within Sagamu LGA, Ogun State, this cemetery holds immense importance for the community. In light of this, we urge the authorities, especially in Ogun State, to address the need for improvement in the access road leading to the cemetery via the Mosimi-Moro-Iraye Road, off Ikorodu-Sagamu road. The Commissioning Ceremony, scheduled for the 30th of June 2024, is expected to be graced by esteemed dignitaries such as the Sultan of Sokoto, H.M Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Chief Missioner of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Shaykh AbdurRahman Ahmad, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele and other notable figures. The event, featuring keynote speeches, the unveiling of the cemetery and a guided tour of the facilities, will indeed mark a significant milestone. TMC, a registered faith-based non-governmental Islamic organization, remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community and providing essential support at the grassroots level. We look forward to the successful commissioning of the International Muslim Cemetery and the positive impact it will have on the Muslim community and beyond.
