JUDICIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY ON CHIEFTAINCY MATTERS

PRESS STATEMENT

ONDO STATE GOVERNMENT RELEASES WHITE PAPER ON THE HON JUSTICE C.E.T. AJAMA JUDICIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY ON CHIEFTAINCY MATTERS.

INTRODUCTION

On the 30th day of January, 2015, the then Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko CON, inaugurated Hon. Justice Ajama (rtd) Judicial Commission of Inquiry into deserving cases of Recognition, Adjustment, upgrading and elevation of Chieftaincy Stools in Ondo State. However, the previous administration of Dr Olusegun Mimiko could not implement the Commission’s report before the end of its tenure on 23rd of February, 2017.

Following several disputes and agitations emanating as a result of the Chieftaincy conflicts in the state, the State Executive Council under the able leadership of the Governor of the State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN at its meeting held on Wednesday 12th January 2022 constituted a six-man committee to review the recommendations of the Justice C.E.T. Ajama Commission of Inquiry on Chieftaincy Matters in Ondo State and prepare the Government White Paper on the report. The Committee was led by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. Other members of the committee include, Chief Olugbenga Ale, (Chief of Staff), Sir Charles Titiloye, (Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice), Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, (Commissioner for Commerce Co-operative and Industry), Asiwaju Gboyega Adefarati, (Commissioner for Local Govt. & Chieftaincy Affairs as he then was) Mr. Segun Odusanya, (Permanent Secretary, Min. of Local Govt. & Chieftaincy Affairs, Secretary of the committee).

On the 24th of August, 2022, the State Executive Council received the report of the Committee and directed that its decisions on the recommendation should be published in Government WHITE PAPER.

Consequently, Government hereby RELEASES the White Paper on the Hon. Justice Ajama Commission of Inquiry on Chieftaincy Matters in Ondo State.

A BRIEF OUTLINE OF THE CONTENT OF THE WHITE PAPERS IS AS FOLLOWS:

The White Paper is divided into Three (3) Parts namely

1. PART I - Disputed Chieftaincy declarations in Ondo State. The Government White Paper under this Part covered 51 disputed chieftaincy stools in various communities making up the 18 Local Government of Ondo State. The content of this section of the White paper is voluminous and run into many pages. The public can get the full details from the just released WHITE PAPER.

2. PART II - Recognition and creation of Minor Chieftaincies Under Part 1 Of Chiefs’ Law

The following chieftaincies stools have been created and recognized by

Government under Part 1 of the Chiefs’ Law.

1. Eleegun of Eegun

2. Asinigbo of Isinigbo

3. Oniresi of Osi

4. Olumafon of Imafon

5. Olu of Alayere

6. Olu of Eleyewo

7. Olu of Ilu-Abo

8. Olu of Abo-Asakin

9. Obalogun of Igoba

10. Ojogbariaka of Ilado

11. Elekun of Ilekun

12. Iralepo of Isinkan

13. Osolo of Isolo

14. Olujoka of Ijoka

15. Ado of Adofure

16. Olu of Ijigba

17. Ogidi of Ogidigba

18. Iginabou of Ajapa

19. Amananawei of Upke

20. Amananawei Of Biagbini

21. Torhunanawei of Olomu-Torhu

22. Amananawei of Agadagba-Obon

23. Amananawei of Bolowou

24. Apetokun of Ipoba

25. Alajowa of Ajowa

26. Elegbeda of Egbeda

27. Onikoore of Onishere Ofosu

28. Akorede of Abababubu

29. Baale of Owode-Owena

30. Aje of Ajebamidele

31. Elejigbo of Ejigbo

32. Olu of Owena-Ibutitan

33. Olu of Ipote

34. Orimadegun of Eyingun

35. Olupote of Lota

36. Olusama of Usama

37. Akemo of Bamikemo

38. Oloja Mobolorunduro Mile 49

39. Petu of Osooro

40. Odofin of Iju-Oke

41. Afijalura of Ura-Odoli, Ilutitun

42. Lurowa of Irowa, Lurowa

43. Erekiti-Luwoye

44. Oloja of Ugbe Ayeka

45. Oloja of Oke-Yegengha

46. Oloja of Odole

47. Oloja of Ugboran

48. Oloja of Araromi

49. Oloja of Bolorunduro

50. Kokunma of Ilale-Oko, Idashen Owo

51. Olose of Ose-Owo

52. Ajelu of Igbe

53. Monehin of Obinehin

54. Elereke of Ereke

55. Araromi Seaside

56. Osowa of Ugboroko

57. Arapanata of Itebu-Kunmi

58. Jinrinwo

59. Yasere of Ilepete

60. Gbogunron of Ugbo (Alagbon)

61. Idigbengben

62. Olurokun of Irokun

63. Government accepts the recommendation of the Commission for the recognition of High Chiefs of Akure Kingdom, High Chiefs of Arogbo-ijaw Kingdom under Part 1 subject to the amendment of Chiefs law to create the class of Chiefs known as High Chiefs.  

The above newly recognized Obas are on Grade C and instrument of office will soon be presented to them by the Governor.

3. Part III - Upgrading And Elevation Of Existing Chieftaincy Stool

UPGRADING OF GRADE C OBAS

         NAME  THE NEW GRADE

1. Owa-Ale of Iyo-mefa, Ikare - A

2. Ajana of Afa Oke-Agbe - - A

3. Olukun of Ikun  - - - B

4. Gbiri of Epinmi   - - - B

5. Olupesi of Ipesi - - - B

6. Olufira of Ifira   - - - B

7. Olugbe of Ugbe - - - B

8. Olojoda of Oda  - - - B

9. Asarun of Isarun - - - B

10. Adapogun of Ipogun - - B

11. Ekiri of Ero - - - - B

12. Olubule of Ibulesoro - - B

13. Olura of Igbinsin Oloto - - B

14. Obagberume of Igbodigo - - B

15. Laragunsin of Iyansan  - - B

16. Olughogho of Iju-Osun - - B

17. Olukaro of Ikaro    - - - B

18. Odibiado of Ijagba - - - B

19. Olumoru of Imoru  - - - A

20. Onimeri of Imeri    - - - B

21. Alafo of Afo      - - - - B

22. Onidogun of Idogun - - B

23. Gbaluwe of Igbootu - - B

24.  Niyon of Kiribo - -   remain in C

25. Olu of Igbobini      - - - B

26. Odogun of Igbekebo      - - B

27. Maporure of Agerige .    - - A

28. Olu of Igbokoda      - - - B

29. Ojomo of Ijebu-Owo.   - - A

30. Oloba of Uso - - -   remain in C

31. Elemure of Emure-Ile      - - A

32. Alale of Idasen      - - - B

33. Oniyere of Iyere      - - - B

34. Olupenmen of Ipenmen - - B

35. Asuada of Isuada      - - - B

36. Awosunye of Atosin - - - B

37. Aladeokun of Alade - - B

38. Alara of Igunsin      - - - B

39. Asafunrin of Igbado - - - B

40. Yangede of Epe      - - - B

41. Akogbe of Ajue      - - - B

42. Olore of Ore      - - - - B

UPGRADING OF GRADE B OBAS

1. Alale of Akungba           - - - A

2. Olusupare of Supare    - remain in B

3. Oloba of Oba-Akoko - remain in B

4. Olupe of Ipe -     - remain in   B

5. Okiti of Iju                  - - - - A

6. Ogbolu of Itaogbolu      - - - A

7. Oloba of Oba-Ile           - - - A

8. Lumure of Ayeka      -  -  remain in    B

9. Orungberuwa of Erinje           - - A

10. Lapoki-Halu of Ode-Aye      - - A

11. Ahaba of Ajagba           - - - A

12. Larogbo of Akotogbo           - - A

13. Odogbo of Omiland - - remain in  B

14. Olujare of Ijare           - - - A

15. Alara of Ilaramokin      - - - A

16. Olowa of Igbara-Oke.        - - A

17. Olute of Ute           - - - - A

18. Ojima of Okeluse      - - remain in  B

19. Olupele of Ipele .          - - - A

20. Orunja of Odigbo           - - - A

21. Oluoke of Okeigbo      - - - A

22. Olikan of Etikan            - - - A

Paramountcy of Traditional Rulers.

Government is in receipt of the recommendation of the Commission on Paramountcy of some Traditional rulers in the state. Government noted that paramountcy is not part of the Chiefs’ Law of Ondo State. Consequently, Government has directed the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to set machinery in motion for the amendment of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State in order to accommodate this recommendation. 

Conclusion.

This Government met the Justice C. E. T. Ajama report unattended to on assumption of office.  A committee of the State Executive Council was set up to review the report and make recommendations.  The Committee didn't present its report until in February 2022 when a new Committee was set up.  The report of the Committee eventually made it possible for the Five years old Justice Ajama report to be considered and acted upon by the State Executive Council.

For full details of the approval of Government, Published Certified True Copy of the White Paper can be obtained from Ondo State Law Commission, Oda Road, Akure and the Library Department of Ondo State Ministry of Justice, Alagbaka, Akure as from Thursday 15th of September, 2022.

Government is hopeful that this exhaustive consideration and review of Chieftaincy Matters in the State will bring peace, unity and progress to our various communities. Government hereby assure the Public that the review of Chieftaincy matters will be a continuous exercise and requests or issues that have not been looked into in this White paper will be considered in the future.

God bless Ondo State of Nigeria.

Thanks.

Signed.

Sir Charles Titiloye ksm.

Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State.

Tinubu Tax Reform Bill

The new tax reform bill brings several benefits to the masses, as outlined in the document: 

Support for Remote Work and Digital Economy: Changes to income tax laws will facilitate remote work opportunities for Nigerians, empowering youths in the global digital economy.

Promotion of Exports: Zero-rated VAT and other incentives aim to encourage exports in goods, services, and intellectual property.

Relief for Small Businesses: Small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦50 million or less will benefit from tax exemptions, including withholding tax, VAT, and a 0% corporate income tax rate.

Reduced Personal Tax Burden: Minimum wage earners will be exempt from PAYE, and over 90% of workers in the private and public sectors will experience reduced tax burdens. 

Essential Goods Exemptions: VAT exemptions on food, education, healthcare, rent, public transportation, fuel products, and renewable energy will alleviate the cost of living, especially for low-income households.

Corporate Tax Relief: Corporate income tax rates will reduce from 30% to 25% over two years, and loss-making companies will no longer face minimum tax. 

Harmonized Tax System: Earmarked taxes on companies will be eliminated, replaced by a unified, lower single levy.

Enhanced Business Investment: Businesses will receive input VAT credits on assets and services, enhancing investment competitiveness and reducing costs.

Equitable Revenue Sharing: VAT revenue sharing will be more equitable to ensure fair treatment of states with fewer headquarter companies.

Simplified Compliance: Allowing taxes on foreign currency transactions to be paid in naira reduces exchange rate pressures and simplifies compliance.

Economic Contributions Rewarded: The rationalization of tax incentives aims to provide a level playing field and reward states' economic contributions.

New National Fiscal Policy: The policy emphasizes fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and sustainable spending.

These reforms aim to create a more inclusive, equitable, and competitive economic environment for all citizens.

Spotlight on Night Markets (Oja-Ale)

In many societies, night markets (locally known as Oja-Ale) have become a vibrant hub for economic activities, catering to diverse needs ranging from food and fashion to entertainment and essential services. The extension of business hours into the night provides several economic benefits, fostering growth and development for both individuals and the broader economy. However, for night markets to thrive, the government must ensure adequate infrastructure, particularly street lighting and security.

Economic Benefits of Long Economic Activities and Night Markets

Increased Revenue for Businesses
Operating late into the night allows businesses to serve a wider customer base, including those who may be unavailable during regular business hours. Vendors and traders in Oja-Ale benefit from the opportunity to generate more income, which, in turn, improves their living standards and contributes to the local economy.

Job Creation
Extended business hours create additional employment opportunities for people such as security personnel, cleaners, transport operators, and vendors. This is particularly significant in urban areas with high unemployment rates.

Boosting Tourism
Night markets are often cultural attractions, drawing tourists who seek unique experiences. They offer a blend of local cuisine, art, and entertainment, enhancing the region's appeal and generating foreign exchange.

Promoting Informal Economy
Night markets often serve as an entry point for small-scale entrepreneurs who lack the resources to establish formal businesses. This supports grassroots economic activities and contributes to financial inclusion.

Reduced Congestion in Day Markets
By spreading economic activities across longer hours, night markets help reduce the overcrowding and stress associated with daytime markets, creating a more balanced and accessible trading environment.

The Role of Government in Supporting Night Markets

For night markets to fully realize their potential, the government has a critical role in creating an enabling environment. Two primary areas of intervention are provision of street lighting and enhanced security.

Provision of Street Lighting
Well-lit environments are critical for night-time economic activities. Street lights:

Enhance visibility, making it easier for buyers and sellers to interact.

Reduce accidents and improve overall navigation within market areas.

Discourage criminal activities, creating a sense of safety for all participants.

Investment in solar-powered street lights can provide an affordable, sustainable, and reliable solution for areas prone to electricity shortages.

Enhanced Security Measures
Safety concerns are one of the major deterrents to night-time economic activities. Governments can address this by:

Deploying trained security personnel to patrol market areas.

Establishing surveillance systems such as CCTV cameras.

Encouraging community policing initiatives to foster trust and cooperation between traders and law enforcement.

Conclusion

The economic benefits of extended business hours and night markets are undeniable. They stimulate commerce, create jobs, and enhance the cultural and social fabric of a community. However, these benefits can only be maximized if governments prioritize the provision of essential infrastructure such as street lighting and security. By doing so, night markets like Oja-Ale can flourish, contributing significantly to the economic resilience and vibrancy of cities and towns.

HOW TO LOCATE ALL THE NYSC ORIENTATION CAMPS IN THE 36 STATES INCLUDING F.C.T

1. ABIA : On your way to Umuahia, come down at Bus stop gate in Umuahia, take a cab going to Ohafia via Igbere. Tell the driver you are going to Igbere before Abriba. Once you stop at Igbere which is just about 400 - 500 naira from Umuahia. Cross to the other side of the road and walk straight to camp. Please, on no account should you tell the driver that you're going to Bende, because Bende Town is a bit far from Igbere where your camp is located.

2. ANAMBRA : Coming from Onitsha, go to upper iweka and enter a bus going to Awka, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don't forget to remind the driver or conductor that you'll be stopping at Amawbia junction. When u get there, look for a bike man or keke that'll take you into the camp at Umuawulu. The distance from Onitsha to Amawbia is from 20 to 40 minutes and the total price might range from 400 to 500. Coming from Awka, go to unizik junction and enter a bus going to Onitsha, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don't forget to remind the driver or conductor that you'll be stopping at Amawbia junction. From there, get a Keke or taxi straight to NYSC orientation camp in Umuawu/Abaukwu

3. KANO : On your way to Kano state, tell the driver to drop you at Unguwa uku. When he stops, you'll see buses waiting to drop people at Karaye camp at the rate of 600 to 800 naira, but if the driver didn't stop you at Unguwa uku, then stop at the final bus stop, Sabon-gari park at new road and board a Keke to Bata for 50 to 70 naira, from there, find a bus to Kabuga park, when you'd get to Kabuga park, board a bus to Karaye camp.

4. JIGAWA : From Kano, take a bus going to Dutse, tell the driver that you'll stop at the NYSC orientation camp in Fanisau, the journey will last for about 1 hour 30 minutes. The camp is located opposite an Army barrack.

5. BAUCHI : From the last bus stop in Bauchi, take a taxi to Muda Lawal park, then take another bus going to Wailo from the park. The NYSC orientation camp is located in Wailo.

6. RIVERS : When you'd get to Port harcourt, stop at Eleme junction, and ask for directions where Nonwa or Gokana buses are loading, and board a bus to the orientation camp. Make sure you'd tell the driver that you're going to the camp, the NYSC orientation camp is along the road. The journey is about 1 hour.

7. OYO : When you'd get to Ibadan, stop at Iwo road. From Iwo road, take a taxi of 250 to 500 naira going to Ojoo and tell them to drop you at Iseyin park. From Iseyin park, take a bus going to the orientation camp for up to 1000 to 1200 naira and be prepared for more that 2 hours journey.

8. DELTA : For those coming to Delta from Lagos and the whole of South West or Benin, enter Asaba bus or Onitsha bus and tell the driver to drop you at Issele-Uku junction. When you'd get to the junction, cross the express and take a bike straight to the orientation camp, which will range from 150 - 200 naira. For those coming from Enugu and the whole of South east, enter Onitsha bus and stop at upper Iweka, from upper Iweka, enter Asaba bus from 200 to 250 naira and drop at Koko junction which is the last bus stop and from there you'll see Issele-uku bus. Enter the bus and drop at Issele-Uku junction. When you'd get to the junction, cross the express and take a bike straight to the orientation camp, which will range from 150 - 200 naira. The journey to Issele-uku from Asaba is about 25 to 35 minutes.

9. ADAMAWA : From Yola, take a taxi to Vinikilang. From Vinikilang, you'll get a Keke straight to the camp. You can also take a drop that will carry only you or with your friends straight to the camp from whichever park you are arriving from. The price for a drop will range from 800 to 1200 naira.

10. KATSINA : From Kano, board a bus going to Katsina, from the park in Katsina, you'll get a bike straight to the camp, located at Mani road.

11. NASARAWA : From Abuja, board a bus and stop at Mararaba, and take about 300 naira bus to Keffi and tell the driver to stop you at the NYSC orientation camp.

12. CROSS RIVER:  From Lagos and South west states, stop at Calabar and take a straight bus to Obubra and tell them to stop you at Obubra junction, and enter a bike of 25 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp. From Abuja, enter a Calabar bus and tell the driver that you'll be coming down at Obubra junction, at Obubra junction, enter a bike of 250 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp. From Onitsha, stop at upper Iweka and enter IKOM motor, tell the driver that you'll be coming down at Obubra junction, at Obubra junction, enter a bike of 250 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp.

13. SOKOTO : From the park in Sokoto city, get a bike man and tell him to take you to Wamakko. It will cost you from 250 to 300 naira, the camp is located at the left side of the road.

14. KADUNA : From the Kaduna city, enter a bus going to Chikun local government, tell the driver that you're going to the NYSC orientation camp. The camp is located at the Kaduna/Abuja expressway and costs 250 to 300 naira from the city.

15. KOGI : From anywhere in Kogi state, board a bus going to Kabba, stop at the last bus stop and board a bike to the NYSC orientation camp.

16. OSUN: From Osogbo, enter a bus going to Ede, as soon as they stop you, look for a bike that'll take you straight to the NYSC orientation camp for the rate of 200 to 300 naira. From Lagos, Ibadan, Kogi, Abeokuta or Abuja, look for a bus going to Osun state, immediately you get to Ife or Ilesha, tell the driver that you'll stop at Gbogan, from Gbogan, you will take a direct bus to the camp which is very close.

17. ABUJA/FCT : Stop at Jabi park, take a taxi or Keke to Wuse market and board a bus going to Kubwa village. The last bus stop is at Kubwa market, from the Kubwa market, the NYSC orientation camp is just a walking distance or you could just board a bike to the camp.

18. LAGOS : From Ikeja, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja, when you'd get to Iyana Ipaja, take a bus to Agege or Iyapaja and tell the driver to stop you at the NYSC orientation camp. From Ojota, take a bus to Oshodi, from Oshodi, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja and stop at their last bus stop which is under bridge, take the road on the right where you were stopped and walk down straight or ask people around the bus stop where the nysc camp is located and they will direct you appropriately. From Oyingbo, take a bus going to costain, when you'd get to costain, take a bus to Ojuelegba, from Ojuelegba, take a bus going to Oshodi, from Oshodi, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja and stop at their last bus stop which is under bridge, take the road on the right where you were stopped and walk down straight or ask people around the bus stop where the NYSC orientation camp is located and they will direct you appropriately.

19. OGUN : From Lagos, take a direct bus to Sagamu, when the bus stops, enter a bike straight to the orientation camp. From Abeokuta, take a bus to Sagamu, when the bus stops, enter a bike straight to the orientation camp. From Abeokuta to Sagamu is close to an hour.

20. IMO : Coming from Owerri, take a bus from Ama JK to Nkwerre. Make sure that you'd tell the driver that you're going to the NYSC camp in Eziama Obaire Nkwerre, stop at Nkume junction and take a bike to the camp. The distance from Owerri to the camp is like 40 minutes to 1 hour and the bus charge will be ranging from 400 to 600.

21. ENUGU : Coming from any part of Nigeria please proceed to Enugu City. When you get to Enugu City, locate Holy Ghost Park, ask for vehicles going to Awgu and board one of them straight to the camp. Coming from South, for eg. Port Harcourt-Calabar Axis. You don’t have to get to Enugu City, just board a bus heading to Enugu, inform the driver that you will be stopping at Awgu NYSC Camp. Remind him again, once you have passed Okigwe. 

Coming by air, board an airplane to the Enugu Airport. From the terminal, hire a cab straight to the camp or you can get to Holy Ghost Park and board a vehicle straight to the NYSC Camp. A second option by air, is the Owerri Airport, from Owerri, proceed by road to Okigwe, from Okigwe you will easily get a cab to the Awgu NYSC camp.

22. BORNO : Coming from Kano, tell the drivers that you're going to Gumel in Jigawa state, they'll direct you to a place that you'll get a taxi. The taxi will take you to a place that you'll get a straight bus to the College of Education, Gumel, where the temporary orientation camp is located.

23. YOBE : From Kano, get a direct bus going to Yobe. The camp is located at Potiskum. From Lagos, take a direct bus to Potiskum. From Onitsha, take a direct bus to Potiskum.

24. GOMBE : From Gombe park, enter a straight bus to the camp. The orientation camp is located at Science Technical college, Amanda, km 21, Gombe-Bauchi Highway-near International Airport Gombe.

25. AKWA IBOM : From AKTC park in Uyo, you might see a direct bus to camp, but if you didn't see, there's another way to get to camp without problems. Take a Keke to a place called PORIENTATIOdown to Oron road and ask where they board Nsit Atai buses.

26. KWARA : From Ilorin, take a bike to Maraba, that's where you'll get bus going to Yikpata camp. The buses will stop you at the camp entrance.

27. BAYELSA : Get a bus going to Yenagoa and tell the driver to stop you at Mbiama (just before they enter Bayelsa), at Mbiama you will see cabs going to Kaiama, join one and tell them you will stop at Kaiama park. From Kaiama park, take a direct bike to camp.

28. EDO : From Benin, take a bus to Okada. From Okada, you'll see a cab or bike that'll take you straight to the orientation camp.

29. TARABA : The NYSC orientation camp in Taraba is located at Sibre Airport Road, Jalingo. On your way to Jalingo, you'll be dropped in the gate of the NYSC camp, because it's located at the express.

30. ZAMFARA : From Kaduna, stop at Kawo park, get a bike or taxi to NDA junction where Zamfara park is located and get a bus to Zamfara, the camp is along the road at Tsafe LGA.

31. BENUE: From Makurdi last bus stop, cross to the other side and directly in front of Winners Chapel church, there are cars going to Gboko, from Gboko, you'll drop at the NYSC camp just after police college by the road side.

32. PLATEAU : From Jos, take a straight bus to Mangu where the orientation camp is located for a rate of 500 naira. The journey will take 45 minutes to 1 hour.

33. EBONYI : From Abakaliki, enter a bus to Afikpo Macgregor camp. Stop at the junction and take a straight bike to the camp.

34. KEBBI : From Mando park in Kaduna, get a vehicle going to Yauri/Kontagora, drop at Yauri. From Yauri, get a vehicle going to Koko. After dropping at Koko, get a straight cab to the orientation camp located at Dakingari. From Ibadan, get a vehicle going to Kontagora, Niger state, drop at Kontagora and get a vehicle going to Koko. After dropping at Koko junction, get a straight cab to the orientation camp located at Dakingari.

35. NIGER : From Minna, take a bike to Mobil filling station and take a bus straight to Paiko where the orientation camp is located.

36. EKITI : From Ado-Ekiti, get a straight bus to the NYSC orientation camp located at Ise-Emure Ekiti. The price for the bus will be around 400 naira.

37. ONDO: From Akure, take a taxi to Benin garage, you'll see a vehicle going to Ikare.  From the last bus stop, take a bike straight to the orientation camp.

nyscupdateng

History of Minimum Wage Increments in Nigeria

Nigeria’s minimum wage evolution reflects decades of labor agitation, political negotiation, and economic necessity. Each adjustment tells the story of inflation pressures, workers' demands, and government responses to shifting socio-economic realities.

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1. Pre-1981: Informal and Regional Wage Structures

Before 1981, Nigeria had no legislated national minimum wage. Wages were determined regionally and by employers’ discretion. Colonial policies and post-independence economic conditions created disparities in pay, especially between urban and rural workers.

Unions such as the Nigeria Trade Union Congress (NTUC) and later the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC, formed in 1978) pushed for wage reform and uniform pay.

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2. 1981 – Nigeria’s First Minimum Wage Law

• Minimum Wage: ₦125/month
• President: Shehu Shagari
• Context: Marked Nigeria’s first attempt to formalize a national wage floor. The 1981 Minimum Wage Act followed nationwide labor protests led by the NLC.
• Significance: First uniform national minimum wage for workers in public and private sectors with at least 50 employees.

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3. 1990 – Wage Increase Under Military Rule

• Minimum Wage: ₦250/month
• Head of State: General Ibrahim Babangida
• Context: Economic hardship caused by SAP (Structural Adjustment Programme) led to wage reviews.
• Response: Despite doubling the wage, inflation quickly diminished its value. Protests and strikes intensified.

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4. 2000 – Post-Military Major Adjustment

• Minimum Wage: ₦5,500 (state workers), ₦7,500 (federal workers)
• President: Olusegun Obasanjo
• Context: Transition to democracy raised expectations. Labor unrest forced the government to raise the minimum wage significantly.
• Issue: Disparity between federal and state implementation persisted.

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5. 2011 – Fourth Minimum Wage Review

• Minimum Wage: ₦18,000/month
• President: Goodluck Jonathan
• Legislation: National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act, 2011
• Context: After years of agitation and national strikes, a new wage was signed into law. Many state governments delayed compliance.
• Significance: First wage backed by robust legal reforms and broader applicability.

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6. 2019 – Fifth National Minimum Wage

• Minimum Wage: ₦30,000/month
• President: Muhammadu Buhari
• Legislation: National Minimum Wage Act, 2019
• Context: Inflation and cost of living necessitated another increase. Labour unions forced negotiations after years without review.
• Challenges: Widespread non-compliance by state governments, who claimed inability to pay.

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7. 2024 – 2025: Latest Wage Reform

• New Minimum Wage: ₦70,000/month
• Effective Date: July 19, 2024
• President: Bola Ahmed Tinubu
• Context:
  • Triggered by the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023
  • Soaring inflation and cost of living
  • Initial government offer: ₦62,000
  • Labour demand: ₦250,000
  • Agreement reached after multiple strikes and tripartite negotiations
• Outcome: ₦70,000 officially became Nigeria’s national minimum wage from July 2024, replacing the ₦30,000 law.
• Significance: Most substantial increase in Nigeria’s wage history; reflects the urgency of economic relief for workers.

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Challenges Across the Years

• Inflation: Rapidly erodes the real value of wages.
• Implementation Gaps: Especially at the state and local government levels.
• Irregular Reviews: Contrary to expectations of 5-year reviews, wage laws often lag behind economic realities.
• Union-Government Disputes: Regular industrial actions required to enforce wage compliance.

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Conclusion

The journey of Nigeria’s minimum wage—from ₦125 in 1981 to ₦70,000 in 2024—shows a pattern of delayed adjustments in response to economic crises and labor pressures. While the latest review marks a historic improvement, challenges remain in ensuring sustainable living wages, regular reviews, and full enforcement across all sectors.

The future of wage reform in Nigeria depends on strong institutions, equitable revenue distribution, and an economy that supports not just minimum survival—but dignified living for all workers.

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The Impending Cholera Epidemic Fueled by High Cost of Sachet Water and Food Insecurity in Nigeria

Amidst the complex web of challenges facing Nigeria, the convergence of high-cost sachet water and food insecurity has bemm come a potent catalyst for the. Ioutbreammk of cholera, a preventable yet deadly waterborne disease. This deadly synergy has the potential to trigger a 461hcatastrophic public health crisis in the country.

The high cost of portable water have forced many Nigerians to resort to unsafe water sources, including contaminated rivers and streams. This precarious situation is compounded by widespread food insecurity, which has left a significant portion of the population vulnerable to malnutrition and weakened immune systems. These factors create a perfect environment for the rapid spread of cholera, a highly infectious waterborne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

In the context of Nigeria, where access to clean water and proper sanitation remains a challenge for many, the combination of high-cost portable water and food insecurity sets the stage for a potential cholera epidemic. Contaminated water sources, coupled with poor hygiene practices, create a breeding ground for the cholera bacterium, leading to outbreaks that can quickly spiral out of control.

Furthermore, food insecurity exacerbates the situation by compromising the nutritional status and overall health of individuals, making them more susceptible to cholera infection and less resilient in fighting off the disease. Malnourished individuals are at a higher risk of severe cholera complications, which can lead to a higher mortality rate during outbreaks.

The looming threat of a cholera epidemic in Nigeria demands urgent and comprehensive action. Addressing the high cost of portable water and food insecurity requires a multi-pronged approach that encompasses investment in clean water infrastructure, improved sanitation facilities, and sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, public health education and awareness campaigns are crucial to promoting safe hygiene practices and preventing the spread of cholera.

In conclusion, the intersection of high-cost portable water and food insecurity in Nigeria presents a serious risk for the outbreak of cholera. The urgency to address these interconnected challenges cannot be overstated, as the consequences of inaction could be devastating for the health and well-being of the Nigerian population. It is imperative that concerted efforts are made to ensure access to clean water and nutritious food, thereby mitigating the risk of a cholera epidemic and safeguarding public health.

-Steve Owaduge writes from Akure 

Remembering Chief M.K.O. Abiola and the Unfinished Struggle

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, it's crucial to reflect on the tumultuous journey towards democracy and honour the sacrifices of leaders like Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who fought tirelessly for the nation's democratic ideals. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped Nigeria's political landscape.

Chief M.K.O. Abiola, a prominent figure in Nigerian history, symbolizes the arduous battle for democracy. His unwavering commitment to democratic principles and his ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of a free and fair electoral process have left an indelible mark on the nation. Despite his overwhelming popularity and the mandate he received from the people in the 1993 presidential election, the military regime at the time annulled the election, depriving the Nigerian populace of their democratic voice.

The struggle of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and countless others exemplifies the enduring fight for democracy in Nigeria. However, as the nation celebrates its hard-won democratic freedoms, it's crucial to acknowledge that those who now benefit from the struggle often neglect the plight of the masses. While some have risen to positions of power and influence, the concerns of the everyday Nigerian citizen have been overshadowed by political maneuvering and self-interest.

The irony of the situation cannot be overstated. The very individuals who once championed the cause of democracy and stood in solidarity with the people have, in some cases, become disconnected from the everyday realities and struggles of the masses. Political leaders and influential figures who have ascended to positions of authority must not forget the sacrifices made by Chief M.K.O. Abiola, his contemporaries, and the Nigerian people at large.

As the nation reflects on Democracy Day, it's imperative to recognize that the patience of the masses has its limits. The spirit of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and the collective yearning for genuine democracy continue to resonate within the hearts of the people. The unfulfilled promises and unaddressed grievances of the populace serve as a somber reminder that the quest for true democracy is ongoing and that the revenge of the masses against those who have neglected their needs may be imminent.

In conclusion, Nigerian Democracy Day serves as a time for remembrance, reflection, and a call to action. The struggle of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and others should not be in vain. It is a reminder that the true essence of democracy lies in serving the interests of the people and upholding the principles of justice, equality, and progress. As the nation moves forward, it must ensure that the sacrifices of the past are honoured, and the voices of the masses are heard and heeded. The revenge of the masses, in the form of a demand for genuine democracy and accountability, looms on the horizon, and it is a call that cannot be ignored.