Business
OPINION: Buhari’s Dilemma, Naira Fall, Nigerians’ Suffering & National Security Question
MEN make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better”, postulates Harry S. Truman.
Nigerians had high hopes. Nigerians believe basic amenities of life would be readily available. Nigerians were sure health institutions in the country would be better off. The people of Nigeria were certain they would not go to bed in hunger as three square meals would be made available. Millions of Nigerians had belief that house rents payment would be easily affordable. Electricity supply, the masses were sure would have improved and be more constant.
Graduates of Nigerian tertiary colleges were hopeful that securing jobs after school completion would be a walk-over. Farmers were bold enough to agree that they would have access to soft loans to produce food in large capacity to guide against food insecurity in the county. Market women resolved in their several meetings to make prices of food affordable to Nigerians.
Nigerians were joyful that they would be able to sleep with their two eyes closed, not afraid of hoodlums or armed robbers invading their homes. From the East to West, North and South of Nigeria, everyone was certain Naira, Nigeria’s currency would appreciate in the Foreign Exchange Market (Forex) soon as the nation witnessed new administration.
Nigerians had all of these high expectation since on May 29, 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari assumed power as Nigeria’s leader, the people saw in him: a firm leader going by his antecedent as a military ruler of Nigeria from 1984-1985; an incorruptible personae, a disciplinarian who would be willing to go extra mile ensuring sanity in politics and economy, which are the core promises he made to Nigerians in his manifesto before all of us entrusted our collective destinies in his hands by overwhelmingly voting out Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and had All Progressives Congress (APC), an opposition party take over the reigns of power. During the election, many Nigerians died in the process, as some of them became victims of gun shots, party-rivalry attacks, stray bullet.
In short, Mr. President rode to power on the wings of Nigerian lives who sacrificed themselves, faced all odds, queued long in the sun, kept vigil on ballot boxes so they are not stolen by hooligans: all in their sorrows, tears and blood. So what did Nigerians get in return for all these sacrifices? Empty promises, disappointment, regret, inflation, sufferings; more joblessness, shattered dreams, unfulfilled aspiration, propaganda and deceit in the most alarming rate ever in Nigeria’s history. It is akin to dancing on dead Nigerians’ graves. Many of them are wishing if the earlier young, vibrant, energetic and resourceful Buhari whom they knew as a military leader in the 80’s could be reincarnated into this 21st Century by his vibrancy. Alas, veils have fallen off Nigerians’ eyes since it is now realized that Buhari of the 80’s is not the same as Buhari of this 21st modern Century. As at today, Buhari is 73 years old, an old man that has obviously lost the energy, vigour, strength, ingenuity and profound thinking capacity of the 80’s.
There comes a time in the life of every man when that man looks himself straight in the mirror and tells himself the truth. At Mr. President’s age of 73 years, if he continues in this path as at present, it is either he his not telling himself the truth by looking closely in his appraisal-mirror of performance or gullible to the high-praise of political sycophants whom General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retired) also a former Nigerian military ruler described in his recent tweeter handle as glutton, hungry politicians with voracious appetite whose main visit to Aso Rock, seat of power is to consume food. IBB, as fondly called captured it in these words: “I strongly believe our Politicians are well fed. Aso Rock is Not A Place to Feed Nigerian Politicians.” A popular adage in Nigeria says “A fool at 40 is a fool forever,”, then how do you describe someone at the age of 73years?
It is becoming more crystal clear daily that there are some political wolves in the corridor of power whom Mr. President must have seen as harmless, political sheep that would not wrongly advise, guide, inform him of the pulse of Nigerians’ expectation; rather these same politicians are not only misinforming, misguiding but seems set to rubbish earlier legacies of Buhari’s accomplishment in the 80’s through his lackluster political performance as being witnessed by all and sundry today.
Regarding Nigeria’s Naira fall to over N300, which has for the first time almost brought the nation’s economy down on its knees due to oil reliant to an all time shame, the words of Douglas MacArthur, an American great philosopher, a five-star Army General and a former Chief of Staff of the United States who died April 5, 1964 in Washington DC readily comes to mind. He said: “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions and the compassion to listen to the need of others. He does not set out to become a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.”
Yes, Buhari has been a true leader standing alone. Yes, Mr President has had the confidence to make tough decisions. No, he has not had the compassion to listen to the need and suffering of the masses. Nigerians damned all odds across ethnicity, social barriers, political affiliations to elect him their leader by seeing through the prism of his unquestionable integrity, but the equality of his actions buoyed by his non-compliance to his own electoral promises, willful desecration of his own Oath, now cast shadows of doubt on his economic prowess to save Nigeria from the woods.
Godwin Emefiele, a former Chief Executive officer and Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank Plc has been Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) since June 3, 2014. He brought in various economic theories, fad, ideas and policies. On the long run, right under Mr President eyes, Emefiele has found it so difficult to ‘arrest’ the rising of Nigeria’s Naira in Foreign Exchange Market to the extent that One United States Dollar now goes for over N300 in the open market. Under Goodluck Jonathan, Buhari’s predecessor, the then CBN Governor, now Emir of Kano State, Sansusi Lamido Sanusi, ensured Naira exchange to a Dollar was stable at N150. Today, Nigerian politicians due to economic orders handed down to the nation’s financial institutions by CBN; majority of them have literally been buying-out dollars everywhere, anywhere they found it the country, which they now keep at home to avert the slamming hammer of CBN regulations.
These realities have brought untold hardship to majority of Nigerian homes, with money becoming further scarce in circulation as Buhari’s anti-corruption drive steep lower into the standard of living of the masses. Unlike Buhari who had military background, Emefiele would have imprinted his name in the Hall of Infamy at the end of his tenure as ‘one of the worst economists with bad policies that worsened the value of Naira.’ Mr President, it is time you wake up from this slumber that is obviously blowing weird air on Nigerians. Do the right thing: give a deadline to the CBN Governor to put into pragmatic use sound economic policies that would ensure Naira is strong, stable and higher in value compared to other currencies in the Foreign Exchange Market.
Just like every other Nigerians, it is needful that I tell you this Mr President. Great that you are all out fighting Nigeria’s economic saboteurs, corruption, political thieves that have stolen the nation’s wealth by bringing them to justice, blocking all loopholes in the Federal Civil Service to avoid financial waste, having Treasury Single Account (TSA) an initiative which requires that government revenue collection is put into single account to centralize control on effective cash management. But have you asked yourself of what effects are your economic drives on the people you are leading as being guided by the CBN Governor?
Emir of Kano recently said Mr President needs urgent help economically to steer the nation. He also accused Emefiele not to be in denial of being able to artificially hold up the currency. His words: “Let’s stop being in denial, we cannot artificially hold up the currency. President Buhari needs help on the economy. CBN Governor should devalue the Naira. Our economy, the biggest in Africa is in danger of a long slump unless the government confronts slowing growth.”
Another former CBN Governor, Charles Soludo carpets Buhari’s economic direction which he described as ‘Old Buharinomics.’ While delivering a lecture recently in Lagos under the title ‘Avoiding the mistakes of the last Buharinomics’, Soludo said: “There seems to be a perception of the sense of nostalgia, a thing about the command and control regime battling with what is required in a competitive market economy worldwide. The element of the old Buharinomics that we need to change include Fix Exchange Rate, Fix Capital Control, Import Bans and Forex Rationing.”
In his reaction, Emefiele in a grand-standing way to impress Mr President that his economic policies are good and rebuff criticisms daily enumerated by other economic experts so as to keep his job, he recently states during 49th Annual Bankers’ Dinner hosted by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CBN) in Lagos that “My economic policies are bitter pills with long term benefits. While it is too soon to articulate the benefits, the economy is headed in the right direction. The CBN will always act in good faith in pursuing price and financial system stability. The CBN had instituted many polices, including the Treasury Single Account (TSA), restrictions of foreign exchange (Forex) for the importation of some 41 items, financial bailout for some states and capital controls. I insist that the Naira will not be further devalued and we have been implementing fixed exchange rate regime instead of flexible exchange rate.” Except Buhari takes urgent step to re-write this wrong economic policies, else his administration economy will eventually go down in ruins, as Nigerians are now coerced to swallow the bitter pills of Emefiele’s clueless economic daftness by way of harsh inflationary realities.
On National Security, Mr President should answer the following posers in truth and honesty: Do you have an empirical data of how many Nigerians that goes to bed daily on empty stomach? Do you know the sufferings most businesses in Nigeria are going through without steady electricity supply? Do you have a track record of how many graduates that are jobless yet walking the streets daily in search of non-existing jobs? Have you a collation of how many Nigerians that goes to work daily without any salary to pay their bills by month end? Do you know how many underage girls in Nigeria today that have left secondary schools or still in high schools but have taken to prostitution to help their families eke out a living so they would not die in starvation? Can you give us details of how many Nigerians literally ‘sleeping’ outside various foreign embassies in Nigeria in search of visa to run away from effect of your anti-people economic policies? The hypothetical questions are limitless. Without doubt, Buhari is presently in dilemma.
Business
Group slams NMDPRA Boss Farouk’s Diversionary Newspapers Ads On $5.5 Million In Children’s Tuition Fees
…charges relevant agencies to open immediate investigation.
The Concerned Citizens Network of Nigeria (CCNN) has slammed Engineer Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), for his full-page newspaper advertisements published on July 11, 2025, as a “disgraceful charade” and “diversionary” designed to dodge accountability.
The group said the ads, appearing on page 12 of Thisday, page 17 of The Guardian, page 15 of Vanguard, page 3 of BusinessDay, and page 19 of Daily Trust, were unsigned and devoid of substance, failing to address explosive allegations that Ahmed spent over $5.5 million (approximately N8.25 billion) on his children’s secondary education abroad.
In a fiery press conference on Monday in Abuja, the CCNN, led by Dr. Emmanuel Agibi, demanded an immediate investigation, accusing Ahmed of insulting Nigerians’ intelligence with his evasive tactics.
The CCNN highlighted that Ahmed’s children—Faisal Farouk attended the Montreux school, Farouk Jr attended the Aiglon college, Ashraf Farouk attended the Institut Le Rosey while Farhana Farouk attended the La Garenne International School for six years each.
With annual tuition and upkeep exceeding $200,000 per school, the total cost for the four children is estimated at $5 million, or roughly $1.2 million per child over six years.
“The cost per child included annual tuition fees of approximately $130,000–$150,000 and an additional $50,000 for upkeep, flights, and other expenses. For each child, this amounts to roughly $180,000–$200,000 annually, or $1,080,000–$1,200,000 over six years,” the statement said.
“For four children, the total expenditure ranges from $4,320,000–$4,800,000. Even now, questions remain unanswered about the tertiary education of Ahmed’s children. Having completed their secondary education, Faisal, Farouk Jr., Ashraf, and Farhana are enrolled in prestigious universities abroad, where annual costs often exceed $70,000–$100,000 per student.
“Further compounding public outrage, Engr. Farouk Ahmed’s son recently graduated from Harvard University, where tuition and associated costs exceeded $152,000, with additional expenses in the range of $100,000. This extravagant expenditure, far beyond the gross earnings of a civil servant of his calibre, places an immense burden on Nigeria’s poor taxpayers, many of whom struggle to afford three meals a day or school uniforms for their children, particularly in the northern regions.
“Notably, Ahmed has never held employment outside his role with the Federal Government since leaving school, raising further questions about the source of his wealth. The opulence displayed in funding such elite education underscores a stark disconnect between Ahmed’s lifestyle and the economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.”
The group urged the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate how a civil servant’s salary could fund such lavish expenditure.
“In a nation where over 10 million children, particularly in the north, lack access to basic education, this lavish spending by a public servant is not merely a matter of personal choice—it is a moral outrage,” the statement added.
“While countless Nigerian families struggle to afford primary schooling, Ahmed’s children attended secondary institutions costing more per term than the annual budgets of some federal colleges. This stark inequality represents an injustice that cannot be ignored.
“The absence of transparency regarding how these ongoing expenses are funded further fuels public suspicion. If Ahmed’s wealth can support such elite secondary and tertiary education, the public deserves to know the legitimate sources of these funds, especially given his role as a public servant accountable to Nigerian taxpayers.
“The CCNN’s allegations are grounded in rigorous evidence, stemming from a petition to the Attorney-General of the Federation after weeks of verification, fact-finding, and public record reviews.We question how a public official, whose salary is known and whose assets must be constitutionally declared, could finance such an extraordinary level of overseas education without a visible commercial empire or disclosed inheritance.
“The petition raises serious concerns about potential abuse of office, asset concealment, or diversion of public funds under Ahmed’s leadership at NMDPRA. Public response has been resolute, with peaceful protests by lawyers, students, and civic groups targeting the Attorney-General’s office, ICPC, EFCC, National Assembly, and NMDPRA headquarters. These demonstrations, supported by formal letters and placards, demanded a transparent investigation.
“The NMDPRA’s attempt to dismiss these voices as ‘faceless’ is a cynical effort to undermine lawful civic engagement, further eroding public trust. The NMDPRA’s statement conspicuously avoided addressing key issues: it did not deny the children’s attendance at the listed secondary schools, nor did it provide any breakdown of how tuition was funded.
“It offered no details on asset declarations, loans, business income, family inheritance, or blind trusts, relying instead on vague appeals to Ahmed’s ‘reputation’ and ‘integrity.’ In a democracy, such claims are insufficient when a public servant’s lifestyle appears misaligned with their declared income. The burden of proof rests with Ahmed, not the public.
“The CCB, ICPC, and EFCC have constitutional mandates to investigate cases of unexplained wealth, ensuring that public officials are held accountable. This case tests the credibility of President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption and transparency agenda. The CCNN is not calling for Ahmed’s immediate removal but for an open, independent investigation. If he is innocent, a transparent process will vindicate him.
“However, continued silence risks tarnishing both his reputation and the government’s reform efforts. Ignoring these allegations would be a grave miscalculation. The CCNN is submitting additional letters, pursuing legal action, and mobilising further protests to ensure accountability. Civic vigilance is not a nuisance—it is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy.
“Engr. Farouk Ahmed must step forward, disclose his funding sources, and submit to a full inquiry. This is not persecution—it is the price of public trust. The CCB, ICPC, and EFCC must act swiftly to investigate these allegations, ensuring that justice and transparency prevail.”
news
Lagos Speaker, Turkish Airlines, International Stars Grace The Expatriates Business Awards (TEBA) 2025
Lagos Speaker, Turkish Airlines, International Stars Grace The Expatriates Business Awards (TEBA) 2025
The Honourable Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Lokman Balkan, Turkish Airlines’ topshot, actresses Lilian Bach, Ronya Man, and Ghanaian-born broadcaster extraordinaire, Riyah Abdul, among others, are part of the high-flying guests and award recipients at the just-concluded The Expatriates Business Awards (TEBA) 2025.
The unique event, which was held at the prestigious Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, on Sunday, July 6th, 2025, celebrated Nigeria’s multicultural economic ecosystem. The colourful gathering was attended by industry notables including the Honourable Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who was the event’s Chief.
The black-tie affair welcomed an elite audience of diplomats, corporate leaders, international investors, global citizens, and distinguished professionals whose presence reinforced the deepening bond between Nigeria and the international business community.
Anchored by the dynamic duo of Egypt-born media advisor Rania Elewa, who also went home with the award of Diaspora Trailblazer, and Cameroonian music-comedy sensation Danny Green, popularly known as 237 TownCryer, the night was a celebration of global entrepreneurship, cultural synergy, and social impact.
Unlike conventional award platforms which primarily honour local players, TEBA is a trademarked celebration of Nigeria’s diverse economic tapestry, recognizing the contributions of ethnic enterprises and migrant professionals who are actively shaping Nigeria’s GDP and socioeconomic advancement.
The event featured captivating exhibitions, cultural showcases, music, and comedy, creating a glamorous yet soulful atmosphere of unity and recognition.
Among the night’s highlights was the presentation of coveted awards to exceptional individuals and companies whose impact spans various sectors, including aviation, media, entrepreneurship, and entertainment. Notable honourees include: Turkish Airlines, an international airline which won Expatriate Airline of the Year 2024/25, Lilian Bach, the top actress, who won the Diaspora Distinction Award.
Also, Ghanaian born broadcaster extraordinaire, Riyah Abdul was TEBA’s Diaspora Revelation of the Year 2024/25, Ronya Man, a quiet but talented woman was the Cross Over Actress of The Year 2024/25, Avsatel Communications Ltd., an aviation company owned by Austra born Georg Eder MBA won Aviation Safety Champion of the Year 2024/25.
Others are MACE Industries Ltd., a notable aviation technology company owned by Mr. Manoj Tagjiani, which is the Aviation Technology Company of the Year 2024/25, while Cameroon-born Danny Green (237 TownCryer) went home with the Cross-Border Talent of the Year 2024/25.
On the list of the awardees is a talented entrepreneur, Pascale Olumayowa Rafqa who won the Expatriate Entrepreneur of the Year 2024/25, Mrs. Alice Adetona (Oyinbo Olonje), a Polish-born self-made chef was announced as Inter-Cultural Culinary Ambassador for her passion for Nigeria’s culture and culinary skills while Gambia beautician, Zainab Fatty was TEBA’s 2024/25 Serial Entrepreneur of the Year, and Swiss-born Mrs. Janice Udogu, married to a Nigerian won the Heritage Embrace Award for her love for the nation’s customs and tradition.
Others are CCECC, a top-flight international construction company with Construction Company of the Year 2024/25, and Nigerbirds Engineering – Emerging Aviation Powerhouse
Rt. Hon. Obasa, in his remarks, applauded the organisers for spotlighting the indispensable role of expatriate communities in Nigeria’s development journey. He noted that platforms like TEBA not only promote inclusivity and business diplomacy but also help position Lagos and Nigeria as a hub for multicultural growth and investment.
As one of the night’s hallmarks, partners and sponsors received premium visibility before an audience of decision-makers, industry influencers, and public officials, further reinforcing the value of public-private-international collaboration.
TEBA 2025 has cemented its place as one of the leading platforms promoting intercultural recognition, business excellence, and global synergy in Nigeria’s corporate and entertainment landscape.
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