Athena Daily Brief – 7th October 2024
1) New Asagba demands Federal University as compensation for 1967 Asaba Massacre
The new Asagba of Asaba, Obi Epiphany Azinge, has urged the federal government to establish a Federal University in Asaba as compensation for the 1967 massacre, where over a thousand innocent people were killed by the Nigerian army during the civil war. Speaking at the 2024 Asaba Memorial Day, an annual event in remembrance of the victims, Obi Azinge called the massacre a “heinous crime against humanity” that the people of Asaba can never forget, even if they forgive. He believes the university would serve as a fitting acknowledgment of the tragedy and the loss suffered by the community.
(https:/punchng.com/new-asagba-demands-varsity-as-compensation-for-asaba-massacre/)
Athena Commentary:
While the demand for a Federal University in Asaba may stem from a desire for recognition and compensation for the 1967 massacre, it is not the best approach. Simply creating more universities without tackling the pressing issues of adequate funding, infrastructure, and quality education will not resolve the existing deficiencies. Delta State already hosts several federal, state and private universities, which makes the need for another in Asaba questionable. Other forms of compensation, such as scholarships for victims’ families or funding for community development projects, could be more impactful. Instead of perpetuating the proliferation of institutions, the government should focus on enhancing the quality and accessibility of existing educational facilities.
2) PDP wins 30 out of 31 LGAs in Akwa Ibom elections
In the Akwa Ibom State local government elections, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) secured victories in 30 out of 31 LGAs, according to a release by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) Chairman, Mr. Aniedi Ikoiwak. The All Progressives Congress (APC) only won in Essien Udim, home to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
(https://businessday.ng/news/article/pdp-sweeps-lg-elections-in-akwa-ibom-wins-30-out-of-31/)
Athena Commentary:
The PDP’s near-clean sweep of the Akwa Ibom elections signals its dominance in the state, but the isolated APC victory in Senate President Akpabio’s stronghold highlights potential political fractures. The election’s violence, including deaths and arson, casts a shadow over the process, and raises usual concerns about the security of elections. While authorities managed to preserve electoral materials, the mild unrest speak of the need for more peaceful elections. The state must prioritize resolving these tensions to ensure credible governance.
3) NUT demands transfer of teachers’ salaries to state govts
The National Union of Teachers (NUT) has called for the transfer of primary school teachers’ salaries from local governments to state governments to ensure timely payments. NUT President Audu Titus Amba argued that local governments lack the financial capability to manage education effectively. He urged for better investment in the sector, highlighting the gap between Nigeria’s budgetary allocations and international benchmarks. Amba also criticized the government for failing to implement promised incentives for teachers over the past four years.
(https://dailytrust.com/teachers-day-nut-wants-primary-schools-teachers-salaries-under-states/)
Athena commentary:
The NUT’s demand for state governments to take responsibility for primary school teachers’ salaries is a systemic problem in Nigeria’s educational sector that points at an inefficient local government management. Given the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of the country, their welfare should not be left in unreliable hands. While the call for better budgetary allocations is valid, it highlights the chronic underfunding of education, which jeopardizes the quality of teaching and learning. The government must prioritize swift reforms to address the needs of educators.
4) Ekiti Govt awards N47.8 million to outstanding teachers on World Teachers Day
On this year’s World Teachers Day, October 6, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, awarded N47.8 million to outstanding primary and secondary school teachers as a show of appreciation and encouragement. The celebration, themed “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” emphasizes the importance of recognizing the valuable contributions of teachers to nation-building. Ekiti State, known as the “Fountain of Knowledge,” continues to prioritize education, with the state holding a commendable literacy rate of 95.79%, according to UNICEF reports. This initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to advance education for all.
(https://punchng.com/ekiti-gov-gifts-n48m-to-outstanding-school-teachers/)
Athena commentary:
The contribution of teachers to national progress cannot be overemphasized. They play a crucial role in most facets of development. Ekiti State, maintaining its high education standards, continues to invest in recognizing educators. This year’s N47.8 million prize follows previous awards, including N23 million in 2023 and N20 million in 2022. Ekiti’s strong commitment to education serves as a model for other states, emphasizing the importance of grooming the next generation for a thriving economy. This focus on encouraging teachers is highly commendable.
By
Kesiena Jaspar EVAGBERIEN
Aliyu Jalal