Trump Sworn In as 47th US President
Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th US president by Chief Justice John Roberts on January 20th marking a dramatic political comeback despite prior felony convictions. In his inauguration speech, Trump promised a “golden age of America,” criticised outgoing President Joe Biden, and declared “America’s decline is over.” He also referenced surviving an assassination attempt, crediting divine intervention. Trump is expected to announce executive actions, including a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement. Read more
Athena Commentary: Trump’s return to the White House as the 47th President of the United States illustrates a stark shift in US leadership dynamics. While political comebacks are not unprecedented, such a polarising figure assuming office post-conviction is rare in democratic nations. Comparatively, countries with robust legal-political frameworks often bar convicted individuals from leadership roles, safeguarding institutional integrity. The implications for US domestic and global policies remain profound.
Tinubu commends governors’ support for tax reforms
President Bola Tinubu praised the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for unanimously endorsing the four Tax Reform Bills under legislative review, lauding their leadership in fostering unity across regional and political lines. Highlighting productive dialogue with the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy, Tinubu emphasized the reforms’ goal of rejuvenating the economy and attracting investment. He urged swift legislative action and encouraged stakeholder engagement to refine the bills for national advancement. Read more
Athena Commentary: President Bola Tinubu’s commendation of Nigerian governors for endorsing tax reforms reflects a rare but necessary bipartisan collaboration, aligning with governance practices in developed democracies. In countries like the United States, federal and state governments often cooperate on fiscal reforms to enhance competitiveness and attract investments. However, Nigeria must ensure such reforms translate into tangible benefits for citizens, avoiding the pitfalls of elite-focused policies that deepen inequality—a lesson learned from observing both developed and developing economies.
Low turnout as Ondo conducts LG election
The Ondo State local government elections conducted by ODIEC on January 18, 2025, witnessed low voter turnout across polling units, with some locations recording as few as 20 voters. Despite the apathy, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa cast his vote in his hometown, commending the peaceful process and ODIEC’s organization. While stakeholders urged the governor to justify his leadership, Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s dedication to grassroots development and local government autonomy. Read more
Athena Commentary: The low voter turnout in Ondo State’s local government election highlights a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political landscape: citizen disengagement with grassroots governance. Compared to developed countries, where local elections often see higher participation due to active civic education, robust infrastructure, and trust in electoral processes, Nigeria’s scenario underscores the need for reforms. Improved transparency, voter sensitization, and local government autonomy could foster greater public interest and democratic participation at the grassroots level.
Presidency seeks integration of NIN with student ID cards
The Presidency has announced plans to integrate the National Identification Number (NIN) with student ID cards to enhance multipurpose use and provide accurate data on Nigerian students. Senior Special Assistant on Students Engagement, Hon. Sunday Asefon, stated this initiative aims to empower students through access to internships, skills acquisition programs, and job placements while preventing identity fraud. The partnership with NIMC underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to transformative and inclusive governance. Read more
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Athena Commentary: The proposed integration of the National Identification Number (NIN) with student ID cards reflects a progressive approach to digital identification and data management. In developed nations, such as Estonia, integrated ID systems efficiently link citizens to government services, enabling seamless access and reducing fraud. Nigeria’s initiative could emulate this success if implemented with robust data protection, transparency, and scalability, ultimately fostering inclusion, efficient policymaking, and economic empowerment for students.