Economy

Anambra MDAs hoard data, Statistics Bureau cries out

Published

5 years ago

June 6, 2020

A non-governmental organization (NGO) with special focus on human rights education for improved democratic governance and access to basic social services under the aegis of the Civil Rights Concern,(CRC) working in partnership with Christian Aid (CA) Nigeria with support from the UK-AID on Evidence and Collaboration for Inclusive Development(ECID) project in Anambra State has observed that certain Ministries, Departments and Agencies(MDA) in Anambra state do keep away valuable reports and statistical data necessary for general strategic planning in the state.

This was revealed yesterday at an interactive briefing of the state’s planning officers and other key stakeholders including the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) and the Media on ECID in Anambra state held at the State secretariat, Awka.

According to a report from the state’s Bureau of Statistics, the Ministries of Health, Agriculture and Education were the greatest culprits in denying the bureau of the data generated from the offices.

The ugly trend has therefore negatively affected the overall data for planning and budgeting purposes in the state.

It also makes it impossible for researchers, other ancillary agencies of government as well as external users and visitors to the state’s Internet portal to have a reliable and comprehensive data about the state.

The State Coordinator of CRC, Mr Okey Onyeka in his opening remarks pointed out pointed out that government cannot be very effective unless the citizens take up their own responsibilities in governance, to hold the government/duty bearers to account, to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

He noted that the target groups of the project (Evidence Collaboration/Inclusive Development and Validation of Baseline Survey/Findings) were the Adolescents, Rural Poor Women and People with Disabilities especially.

The data validation was therefore to enable the Stakeholders and those involved in the Key Informant Interviews and perception surveys confirm that the findings of the baseline are the views they expressed during the survey.

It equally has the objective of establishing the relatedness of the baseline findings to policies, programmes and activities of the key agencies of government in the State and to sensitize the stakeholders on the COVID – 19 preventive measures to stop the spread of the virus in the State.

Mr Onyeka pointed out that the project was focused largely on some of the marginalized groups in some of the 21 Local Government Areas of the State in terms of access to services, stigmatization, decision making and livelihoods matters.

He harped on the need for improved service delivery especially to the target groups on issues raised at the State, national, regional and global levels of discourse; agreed, signed and adopted in many conventions that Nigeria participated in.

The project was therefore an effort to see how far the agreements are being implemented in the State to ‘leave no one behind’ and to improve inclusion, participation and representative decision making at all levels of government as targeted by Sustainable Development Goals(SDG)16.7

The participants observed that:

The baseline findings as presented in respect of the challenges in accessing services, stigmatization, decision making and livelihoods matters were the issues they raised during the survey.
Issues of marginalization of the target groups at decision making platforms are real and should be addressed; equally of note is the stigma that they live with and challenges in earning a living which have made many of the target groups look up to others for their needs.
The need to improve delivery of services in the State through the use of data in programming development for everyone and especially the target groups was considered very urgent.
The current e-learning taking place in the State and globally especially for school children may be difficult for many parents and guardians in the State and target local government areas to invest in, because of the poverty levels and absence of the basic infrastructures to make this happen, such as light, network, Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) gadgets that the stakeholders in These communities may not be able to afford.
The gap in data connectivity and access between the MDAs and the State’s Bureau of Statistics that is the State data repository needs to be addressed, such that access and confirmed data are always available to all stakeholders who need some relevant data on government work in the State.
There are laws made by the State concerning Child Rights, Violence against Persons Prohibition and People with Disabilities that are yet to be fully implemented to improve services to the target groups.
Key government agencies responsible for information sharing in the State have not been very effective through their various web sites in information sharing to the public.
Some of the key achievements of the State government as in community choose your projects should be more effectively implemented to improve the wellbeing of community people as government is unlikely to invest directly in those areas that community people are undertaking but are critical in its impact on community governance arrangements.
The government implementation of the COVID – 19 measures in the State has made progress but need to be reappraised in the light of some observed realities.
The palliative measures being undertaken by the State should be reviewed to ascertain its real effect with regards to reaching the target audience.

Consequently it was therefore recommended that:

Citizens should undertake their responsibilities and play their roles in governance for better performance.
The validated data should be used by government agencies in planning their programmes for improved delivery of services especially to target groups.
Data sharing through on-line access among MDAs and citizens should be improved to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks in government and enabling citizens undertake their responsibility in governance.
The government at all levels should show more accountability and transparency in managing the issues of COVID -19 to show the citizens, the sick being driven into the COVID -19 management centres, the activities at the quarantine centres and the discharged being taking out of the centres,as have been noted in some communities that many do not believe that COVID – 19 really exists merely because they have never seen anybody who was sick of the infection or any who died of the virus.
There should be testing and improved checking at the State’s borders to stop those infected from coming into the State.
Lawyers and development workers should be included among the essential service workers because of the nature of their works.
The culture of our people does not encourage burying people outside their community; those who are taking their dead home
should thus be allowed to come into the State after they were properly checked to ensure that they do not have the virus and if found to be infected, should be taken straight to quarantine centres.
That the government functionaries should show good example by observing the preventive measures put in place by the government by wearing preventive face masks, maintaining social and keeping physical distancing as well as avoiding crowded gatherings.
Public transporters should respect the physical distancing measures as community spread of the virus has been observed to be increasing in the State and the country.
People with disabilities should ensure that physical distancing is always observed.
The National Orientation Agency(NOA) in the State should be supported to improve community education and understanding of Covid-19 virus as the dangers of community spread is very much with us.
Markets, community associations and professional groups should improve education among their members to take responsibility so as to stop the spread of the virus in the State.
Government officers responsible for implementing the measures against the spread of the virus should improve on their effort to check the spread and remind people to observe all the necessary preventive measures put in place by the federal and state governments.

From Chuks Collins, Awka

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Economy

Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions on Naira Debit Cards

Published

1 day ago

August 22, 2025

Tim Elombah

Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc., has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards.

This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.

The Divisional Head of eBanking, Fidelity Bank, Ifeoma Onibuje, shed light on the development.

Onibuje said: “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use.

“This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”

“Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”

The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards.

The bank stated that it further reinforces its commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles.

With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.

Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits.

The benefits range from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.

This move, the bank said, also reflects its commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond.

The bank noted that it has deliberately made the process of getting a Fidelity Naira card seamless.

It stressed that customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Post Views: 65

Celebrity/Entertainment

How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night

Published

1 day ago

August 22, 2025

Precious Nwabuisi

A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.

The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.

During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.

The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.

Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:

“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”

Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:

“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”

The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.

“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”

His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.

Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.

Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:

“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”

From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.

His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.

Post Views: 675

Africa

UK Dominates Nigeria’s Q1 2025 Capital Inflows With N5.5tn — NBS

Published

1 day ago

August 22, 2025

Precious Nwabuisi

The United Kingdom has once again cemented its position as Nigeria’s leading source of foreign capital, accounting for more than N5.5 trillion in inflows during the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Figures from the Capital Importation Report show that capital from the UK rose to $3.68bn (N5.52tn) in Q1 2025, representing 65.26% of Nigeria’s total $5.64bn inflows for the quarter.

This marked a 29.2% rise from the $2.85bn recorded in Q4 2024 and more than double the $1.81bn inflows seen in Q1 2024.

This underscores Britain’s dominance in Nigeria’s external financing profile and highlights the strong bilateral financial ties between both nations.

Breakdown of Q1 2025 Capital Inflows by Country

United Kingdom: $3.68bn (65.26%)

South Africa: $501.29m (8.88%)

Mauritius: $394.51m (6.99%)

United States: $368.92m (6.54%)

United Arab Emirates: $301.72m (5.35%)

Together, these top five countries accounted for over 92% of Nigeria’s capital inflows, reflecting both the concentration of Nigeria’s foreign investments and the risks of over-dependence on limited markets.

Other contributors included:

Cayman Islands: $114.76m (up sharply from $0.64m in Q4 2024)

Belgium: $70.54m

France: $47.33m

Netherlands: $42.68m (down significantly from $425.61m in Q4 2024)

Singapore: $36.79m

Overall, capital importation into Nigeria stood at $5.64bn in Q1 2025, up 10.9% from Q4 2024’s $5.09bn, and a remarkable 67.1% higher than the $3.38bn recorded in Q1 2024.

The NBS noted:

“Capital Importation during the reference period originated largely from the United Kingdom with $3,681.96m, showing 65.26 per cent of the total capital imported.”

A separate survey by Strategy Management Partners (UK) reveals that British companies are increasingly targeting Africa as a strategic growth frontier.

50% of UK firms with annual turnover above £20m are already operational in Africa and planning expansions.

Another 28% of executives said they are interested but remain cautious about entry strategies.

Africa’s appeal lies in its resource wealth and demographic potential:

30% of the world’s mineral reserves

8% of natural gas reserves

12% of oil reserves

65% of the world’s arable land

Projected to host 25% of the global workforce by 2035

Seven key sectors remain magnets for foreign capital inflows into Nigeria and Africa at large:

1. Technology

2. Oil & Gas

3. Power and Renewable Energy

4. Agriculture

5. Manufacturing

6. Infrastructure

7. Strategic Minerals

Analysts warn that while Nigeria’s reliance on UK-driven inflows reflects strong global confidence, the concentration of sources exposes the economy to external shocks if investor sentiment shifts in these countries.

Diversification of investment partnerships particularly within Asi

a, the Americas, and intra-African trade will be crucial to ensuring long-term resilience in capital inflows.

Post Views: 79

Africa

U.S. Govt Reacts to Nigerian Minimum Wage

Published

2 days ago

August 21, 2025

Precious Nwabuisi

The United States government has said that Nigeria’s new N70,000 minimum wage has lost real value due to the sharp fall of the naira, leaving millions of workers trapped in poverty.

According to the 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, released by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour, the wage translates to just $47.90 per month.

The report noted that currency devaluation and weak enforcement have undermined the wage increase.

The report also revealed that many states are yet to implement the new wage law. Several governors cited financial challenges as the main excuse.

Even where the law exists, compliance remains poor because of limited labor inspectors and weak oversight from authorities.

Wage Devaluation and Exclusion

The report highlighted that firms with fewer than 25 workers are excluded from the minimum wage law, leaving millions of employees without protection.

This also explained that about 70 to 80 percent of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal sector, where wage and labor rights are almost never enforced.

This means a majority of Nigerians continue to earn far below the national benchmark, despite the government’s approval of N70,000 as the new minimum wage.

The U.S. report stressed that the naira’s sharp decline, trading above N1,500 to the dollar, had worsened the wage erosion. This has left workers unable to afford basic needs, pushing many deeper into poverty.

Human Rights and Labor Challenges

The document pointed out that weak enforcement of labor laws contributes to worsening poverty levels in the country.

Workers in the informal sector, such as street vendors, artisans, and small traders, rarely benefit from labor protections.

The report also noted that Nigeria’s minimum wage is rarely sufficient to cover basic food, housing, and transport needs.

This has further exposed structural gaps in the government’s approach to economic reforms and poverty reduction.

Governors Push Investment Platform

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched a new investment initiative called NGF Investopedia.

The platform seeks to attract capital flows into bankable projects across all 36 states, with the goal of tackling Nigeria’s annual $100 billion infrastructure financing deficit.

The launch event in Abuja gathered governors, international partners, and investors. The forum described the platform as a long-term strategy to unlock growth opportunities across states and strengthen Nigeria’s subnational economies.

NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, said Nigeria must urgently leverage its human and natural resources to address poverty and joblessness.

“Here is Africa’s largest economy, endowed with abundant human and natural resources,” he said, stressing that state governments must play a bigger role in attracting investments and supporting local industries.

A Widening Gap

The contrast between the U.S. report on wage decline and the governors’ push for investment highlights Nigeria’s economic paradox.

While authorities promote foreign capital inflow, millions of workers continue to survive on wages that have lost most of their value.

With inflation rising, food prices soaring, and the naira weakening, the gap between earnings and cost of living keeps widening.

Unless enforcement improves and the informal sector is integrated into wage protections, the N70,000 benchmark may remain symbolic rather than effective.

Post Views: 97

Economy

Global Card: Fidelity Bank Hits Milestone As Fidelity Naira Card Accepted Globally

Published

5 days ago

August 18, 2025

Tim Elombah

Fidelity Bank may have hit another milestone the Fidelity Naira Card is now accepted globally.

This was disclosed in a message sent to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) via email on Monday.

According to the statement entitled “Your Fidelity Naira Card Now Works Globally; Shop, Pay and Withdraw with Ease!“, customers can buy favourite global brands online using their Fidelity Naira Card.

The band also stated that they can equally pay at POS terminals abroad and make cash withdrawals at ATMs as they travel.

The message reads:

“We’re excited to let you know that your Fidelity Naira Card is now enabled for global use — so you can shop, spend and withdraw internationally with confidence.

“Here’s what you now enjoy every quarter:

*Channel*	*Transaction Limit*
ATM Withdrawal abroad	$500
Online/Web & POS Payments	$ 1,000

“What does this mean for you?

Shop your favourite global brands online
Pay at POS terminals abroad with ease
Withdraw cash at ATMs when you travel.”

The statement, however, noted that the $1,000 quarterly limit applies to all international transactions combined, including ATM withdrawals, online purchases, and POS payments.

The bank urged customers who may need assistance with setting card limits or activating their cards for global use, to contact the bank’s customers care “Centre Trueserve”, which is available round the clock, whether in Nigeria, or outside the country.

“Your world, your card — spend smart, spend globally with Fidelity,” the message concludes.

Post Views: 238