Lukarawa terrorists will be flushed out soon, says Ribadu
The new terrorist group Lukarawas, originating from the Sahel region, has been wreaking havoc in Nigeria’s Kebbi and Sokoto states. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has vowed to eliminate them, asserting that Nigeria will not allow such groups to destabilize the country. Military operations have intensified, with ongoing efforts to flush out the terrorists. The group has been linked to several attacks, including the killing of civilians and cattle rustling. Nigeria’s military and security agencies are working in synergy to combat these threats and restore peace to the affected communities. Read more
Athena Commentary: The emergence of Lukarawas tells about the persistent security challenges Nigeria faces, especially from cross-border terrorist groups. While military efforts are ramping up, including coordination with neighboring countries like Chad, the situation calls for sustained vigilance and regional cooperation. The ongoing battle highlights the complexities of combating insurgency, where the militarized approach must be complemented by robust intelligence and community engagement. The government’s focus on eradicating these threats is crucial, but the long-term solution will require addressing the root causes of extremism, including poverty and lack of opportunity in affected regions.
Groups from USA, S/Africa, Zambia converge on Lagos for International Theatre Festival
The inaugural Lagos International Theatre Festival brings together groups from Nigeria, the USA, South Africa, and Zambia, celebrating global and Nigerian culture through performances and artistic showcases from the 14th to 17th of November, 2024. Organized by Bolanle Austen Peters and supported by First Bank and the Lagos State government, the event mirrors the legacy of FESTAC 77 by promoting cultural exchange, creativity, and unity. Peters emphasized the festival’s role in bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding to combat ignorance and bias. First Bank highlighted its commitment to supporting the creative arts industry, noting the festival’s economic, social, and educational impact.
Federal government targets $10b for stable power.
The Nigerian government aims to secure $10 billion through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to address the country’s power sector challenges. Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu highlighted that achieving 24-hour electricity supply within the next 5 to 10 years requires substantial funding, which the government cannot provide alone. He emphasized the importance of engaging the private sector for both financial support and technical expertise. Recent setbacks, such as attacks on transmission lines by vandals, have exacerbated the sector’s issues, affecting power supply in several states. Read more
Athena commentary: This initiative reflects a practical recognition of Nigeria’s power sector’s limitations, especially amid challenges like vandalism and insufficient government funding. The government’s reliance on PPPs is a strategic move, aiming to tap into the financial resources and technical expertise of private players. The $10 billion target underscores the enormity of the task ahead. However, PPPs are not a cure-all; while they can bring capital, private companies often prioritize profitability, which could influence the cost of electricity for consumers. Additionally, regulatory oversight, as emphasized by the ICRC, is crucial to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently and on time. Still, the success of this strategy will depend on both the robustness of the regulatory framework and the ability to ensure that private sector partners meet their commitments. Read more
Athena Commentary: The Festival is a commendable initiative, fostering cultural exchange and showcasing Nigerian creativity. However, to match global benchmarks, it should integrate advanced technology in storytelling, live-stream performances for global audiences, and provide training programs for artists, as seen in events like Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Successful festivals in countries like the UK and Canada often focus on robust partnerships, long-term artist development, and significant infrastructure investment. Nigeria can follow these models to create a sustainable arts ecosystem, attract international tourism, and boost economic impact, ensuring the festival evolves into a globally competitive platform for cultural diplomacy and creative industry growth.
Ondo election: Show your anger against APC; only PDP can rescue Nigeria – Makinde
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged Ondo State residents to vote for the PDP in the upcoming governorship election, emphasizing it as an opportunity to demand change and reject the APC’s policies. He described the PDP as the party capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, citing developmental achievements in PDP-led states as proof of its potential. Makinde called the election a “litmus test” for showing dissatisfaction with current governance, urging voters to prioritize progress and good governance by supporting the PDP. He encouraged all citizens to take action for a better future. Read more
Athena commentary: Governor Makinde’s call to use elections as a tool for accountability reflects a fundamental principle of democracy: voter power to demand change. However, in countries with stronger governance, such demands are often addressed through policy debates, transparent systems, and results-driven leadership, not just election cycles. For example, in nations like Canada or Germany, political campaigns focus heavily on clear, actionable plans rather than emotional appeals. Nigeria’s challenge remains systemic—a lack of trust in institutions and frequent electoral promises without tangible results. To truly rescue Nigeria, political parties must shift focus from rhetoric to implementing sustainable, people-centered policies post-election.
Peace Initiative: Plateau’s Berom and Fulani now jointly cultivate farmlands
The peace initiative in Plateau State’s Riyom area has fostered collaboration between the Berom and Fulani communities, who have experienced decades of conflict over farmland destruction and cattle rustling. Spearheaded by the Youth Initiative Against Violence and Human Rights Abuse (YIAVHA), the project promotes joint farming in eight violence-prone communities. Using dialogue, intergenerational exchanges, and a bottom-up approach, the initiative has reduced violence, improved socio-economic stability, and enhanced trust. Stakeholders recommend scaling the model to other areas, prioritizing basic amenities, and fostering inclusive resettlement to sustain peace and address food security challenges. Read more
Athena commentary: The joint farming initiative in Plateau State is a commendable step toward peacebuilding, but its reliance on NGOs highlights governance gaps. In better-governed countries, such conflicts are rare because governments proactively address land use issues through robust policies, mediation frameworks, and equitable resource allocation. For example, countries like the Netherlands resolve farmer-land disputes through legal systems and community programs backed by the state. Additionally, investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure preempt conflicts by reducing socio-economic disparities. While the initiative is a positive move, replicating global best practices—such as government-led long-term conflict resolution—would ensure more sustainable peace and development.
Compiled by:
Ebube Chukwukaeme
Aliyu Jalal
Kesiena Jaspar EVAGBERIEN