The Presidency addressed several issues last Wednesday as the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga picked the microphone to give perspectives to certain developments. One of the issues he addressed was the lingering feud between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refineries Limited.

Onanuga said that President Tinubu would not intervene in the feud because the two entities “operate independently in a deregulated market.”

According to Onanuga, the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) field has been deregulated, just as Dangote is a private company. The NNPCL is a limited liability company, he said. In the loaded statement, the presidential adviser was hinting Nigerians why the President cannot dabble into the huge but confusing feud between Dangote Refineries and NNPCL, over the pricing of petroleum products in the country.

The presidential adviser and Nigerians are not oblivious to the implications of his statement. First, a lot of hope had been invested in the Dangote Refineries by Nigerians, who had concluded that its coming on stream would yield them cheaper fuel and help end the perennial fuel scarcity that kept the pumps at the filling stations dry for most of the months. But as the refinery was about to fag off its full operations, officials of the refinery, the NNPC and its subsidiaries started singing some music with disparaging tunes. Accusations upon accusations were rampaging in the air, while some name calling and tagging were being spread openly and under the table. It became obvious that elements in the administration of President Tinubu were opposed to the operation of the local refinery. Such insinuations must have prompted the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote to speak out in some tones not easily attributable to him hitherto. He alleged that officials of the NNPC were running a blending plant in Malta, where fuel is imported into Nigeria. He equally offered to hand off the Lagos-based refinery if the government would buy him out.

As tension rose, between Dangote and NNPCL, the corporation was having the last laugh, as it chose the same time to unleash some violent strokes of koboko whips on the back of the Nigerian citizen. It galloped fuel prices at will and at the same time locked the products away from their reach. Queues got unwinding at filling stations and the agony was unending. The hunger and thirst for Dangote fuel grew, but the NNPC chose to remain the stumbling block. I guess that the cries of Nigerian citizens at one point got across the Aso Rock Villa, in Abuja and the presidency had to order a temporary ceasefire. NNPCL was directed to create avenues for the supply of crude oil to Dangote in Naira while the refinery too was to agree to a pricing model to be fashioned by the Federal Executive Council. Even at that, the two combatants have continued to throw jabs at each other, especially over what should constitute the exact price of Dangote petrol. While Dangote had claimed that fuel from its refineries would be far cheaper than imported ones, the NNPC had given a conflicting indication. The NNPC/Dangote tango has been a ding-dong and a topsy-turvy affair.

That was the situation as the October 1 date fixed for the start of crude supply to Dangote draws close. And Mr. Onanuga was speaking against that backdrop. If that stands, it would amount to classifying Tinubu in the mould of the biblical Pontius Pilate, as seen in the book of John 18:37-49 and 19:1-19. In that biblical encounter, leading to the final crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Jews had brought Jesus to Pilate’s court for an indictment that would enable them to crucify him. Pilate asked questions of Jesus and even though Jesus answered in the spirit, the judge was still able to conclude that he found no fault in Jesus. And that was despite the mounting pressure from the multitude of Jews, seeking to crucify Jesus.

As we read in John 19:6; “When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, Crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him.”

I believe that President Tinubu should not throw Nigerians at the NNPC, like sheep to wolves. If the declaration of his office is allowed to stand, he would be doing otherwise. To play the Pilate in this needless NNPCL and Dangote feud, he would have endorsed all the punishment his compatriots are suffering at the hands of the NNPCL. He would have said, even though I found no merit in the push to whip the population, I leave you to crucify them’ That would tell us that the President is not only shirking his responsibility as the Minister of Petroleum but also his overriding power as the President and Commander-in-chief.

Much as the officials of the NNPCL and other subsidiaries owned by the Nigerian people want to play the master by believing that they are independent limited liability companies, we will be hiding behind one finger if we believe any inch of that claim. And besides, which limited liability company would not be accountable to its shareholders or the chairman of its board?

If we don’t want to use agidi to light a gas cylinder, we have to agree that the matter of fuel supply in Nigeria is a basic unmistakable assignment President Tinubu must handle for his employers-the Nigerian people. He must be in a position to find answers to the puzzles. Why is fuel supply such a pain in the neck under his administration so far? Why is the locally imported fuel threatening to get more expensive under the watch of the NNPC he supervises? And why is the same NNPC seeking to suffer headaches for another person? When will NNPC’s refineries come alive after the several deadlines?

President Tinubu needs to intervene decisively too, by helping his employers find solutions to the endless hike in fuel prices, and why citizens of other oil-producing countries derive benefits from oil while the Nigerian situation is perpetually in the negative. The Daily Trust on September 23, published a report by Global Petrol Prices, a platform that tracks petrol prices across various countries, which claimed that four countries in Africa sell fuel cheaper than Nigeria. They include Libya which sells at $0.032 (approximately N52/litre), Egypt ($0.279), Algeria($0.342) and Angola, another oil-producing country, at $0.351 per litre.

Besides the above, Tribune columnist and renowned writer, Professor Farook Kperogi quoted data by some oil industry experts who claimed that the landing cost of imported petrol in Nigeria should stand at N1,107 per litre and that several cost components are not inclusive of locally imported fuel.

According to him, when such cost components are removed, Dangote’s fuel should not sell higher than N518.35 per litre. Indeed, investigations have revealed that Dangote fuel costs far cheaper than the amount quoted by him and the NNPC. You could see the fire in the eyes of the spokesperson of Dangote when he refuted the claim that NNPC got fuel at N890 per litre from the refinery.

President Tinubu should not play the ostrich, he cannot afford to play the Pontius Pilate in this case, if he wants a reversal of the oil curse in his tenure.

The trend of Nigerian youths relocating abroad, commonly called “Japa,” has reached alarming levels, driven by many pressing factors. Chief among these is the dire economic situation in the country, characterized by high unemployment rates, inflation, and widespread poverty.

Many young Nigerians find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of a stagnant job market where opportunities are limited, leading to a pervasive sense of hopelessness about their futures. In a society where ambition is often met with barriers, the desire for a better life has become a powerful motivator for japa (migration).

In addition to the economic challenges, high levels of insecurity further exacerbate this trend. The persistent threat of violence, crime, and social unrest makes everyday life precarious for many. Young people often feel vulnerable and unsafe, prompting them to consider relocation as a viable solution to secure their well-being. This atmosphere of fear and instability not only impacts their psyche but also diminishes their prospects for career growth and personal development.

Moreover, the desperation felt by many of these youths leads to significant personal sacrifices. It is not uncommon for individuals to sell their properties, deplete their savings, and even acquire loans in the hopes of financing their migration plans. These choices reflect a profound commitment to change their circumstances despite the inherent risks of leaving their homeland. Pursuing better educational prospects, career opportunities, and improved living conditions fuels the great exodus, as many believe that the benefits of migrating outweigh the costs of remaining in a challenging environment.

Ultimately, the convergence of economic instability, insecurity, and a lack of hope in the current environment drives this trend of migration among Nigerian youths. Each individual’s journey represents a search for a brighter future, underscoring the critical challenges facing young Nigerians today.

The Call for Action: Political Responses and Policies

The migration of Nigerian professionals, particularly within the healthcare sector, has elicited varied political responses. As the phenomenon of ‘Japa’—the colloquial term for seeking greener pastures abroad—grows increasingly prevalent, the Nigerian government has been compelled to confront the ramifications of this brain drain. Efforts have been made to formulate policies designed to retain healthcare workers, reflecting a recognition of these professionals’ pivotal role in national development. Initiatives such as improved salaries, better working conditions, and enhanced career advancement opportunities have been introduced to stem the tide of emigration.

A Lagos lawmaker representing Oshodi Isolo II Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ganiyu Johnson, in 2023, sponsored “A bill for an Act to Amend the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act, Cap. M379, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, to mandate any Nigeria-trained medical or dental practitioner to practice in Nigeria for a minimum of five before being granted a full license by the council to make quality health services available to Nigeria.”

He argued that “the government has invested so much money in training these medical doctors, on average. Recently, the United Kingdom opened healthcare visas to people; who were all going to the UK, USA, and Canada. So should we fold our hands?”

President Bola Tinubu recently approved a National Policy on Health Workforce Migration to manage the exodus abroad of skilled Nigerian healthcare professionals. According to Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the 56-page document outlines the national strategy for addressing the dynamics of health workers’ migration while ensuring that it does not jeopardize the requirements of the nation’s healthcare system.

However, the efficacy of such policies remains a subject of intense debate. Critics often point to the disparity between these governmental measures and the observed behaviour of political elites, who were based abroad before returning home to occupy political posts,  frequently seek medical attention for themselves and educational and professional opportunities for their children overseas, and are even quick to return abroad almost immediately they are out of political offices. This disconnect has raised questions about the commitment of leaders to create a conducive environment for graduates and professionals in Nigeria. Many citizens view these actions as a manifestation of hypocrisy, breeding further disillusionment and fueling the desire to ‘Japa’.

The persistent crisis in the healthcare system, characterized by inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, and a lack of essential resources, undermines these retention efforts. As the government formulates strategies, a more holistic approach is necessary to tackle the issues underlying healthcare workers’ dissatisfaction. This includes addressing systemic problems such as corruption and the lack of equitable resource distribution. A truly effective solution must encompass policies aimed at retaining talent and a broader commitment to reforming the conditions that compel professionals and youths to look abroad.

Ultimately, the Nigerian government faces a critical juncture in addressing the migration of skilled workers. A renewed focus on policy effectiveness and political accountability is essential to reverse the brain drain trend and retain valuable talent within the country.

The Ethical Dilemma: Is Japa Justified?

The decision of many Nigerian youths to japa, seeking opportunities abroad, stirs a profound ethical discourse regarding migration. At the heart of this phenomenon lies the debate over human rights to freedom of movement and the ethical implications of seeking better prospects in foreign lands. From one point of view, migration is a valid option for people who want to advance socioeconomically, supported by the fundamental human right to seek out a better life. This viewpoint emphasizes that individuals should have the autonomy to explore opportunities that enhance their quality of life, especially when local conditions are less than conducive to personal and professional development.

Conversely, critics often label this exodus as brain drain, equating it to a collective abandonment of responsibilities towards a nation grappling with myriad challenges. This characterization raises questions regarding the role and responsibility of political leaders in nurturing an environment that fosters growth, stability, and opportunities within the country. Are they not, partly, accountable for the growing desire among youths to leave? When governments fail to create adequate conditions for human capital development, they inadvertently precipitate a flight of talent, which may severely hinder national progress.

The ethical implications become even more complex when we consider the motivations behind migration. If the pursuit of knowledge and global exposure drives these individuals to relocate, does that not warrant a more nuanced conversation about the potential benefits of such a movement? Rather than framing this trend exclusively as a detrimental outflow of talent, exploring how these experiences, when leveraged effectively, could eventually contribute to national development upon their return may be more productive. Thus, understanding these ethical dilemmas necessitates a balanced perspective, recognizing the individual’s rights and the collective responsibilities inherent within the societal framework.

From Brain Drain to Brain Gain: The Way Forward

The current trend of brain drain among Nigerian youths poses a significant challenge to the nation’s development. However, this brain drain can be transformed into a brain gain by implementing strategic initiatives. It begins with fostering a conducive environment that encourages talented individuals to return home after acquiring international experience. The government and private sector must collaborate to create job opportunities that match the skills of returning emigrants and offer competitive salaries and benefits. Establishing policies that support entrepreneurship can also incentivize returnees to contribute to the economy, fostering innovation and local development.

In addition to encouraging returnees, it is essential to educate Nigerian youths on the motivations behind their relocation. Instead of following trends or peer pressure, young individuals must be empowered to make informed decisions about their futures. This can be achieved through comprehensive career counselling programmes in schools and universities, which will help students understand their options and the potential impacts of their choices. Encouraging critical thinking and strategic planning can lead to more purposeful migrations—individuals seeking international exposure while still retaining a commitment to their homeland.

Furthermore, cultivating a culture of engagement within Nigeria will encourage both citizens and expatriates to invest in the country’s future. This can be accomplished through initiatives promoting community building, networking, and professional collaboration. By emphasizing the skills and experiences that returning Nigerians bring, the nation can foster an environment where intellectual capital is valued. Hosting forums and symposiums where returnees share their experiences can inspire others and create a cohesive community centred around progress.

In conclusion, Nigeria can combat the brain drain phenomenon by actively promoting brain gain strategies and educating youths on purposeful migrations. This approach not only mitigates the loss of talent but also cultivates a dedicated populace invested in the nation’s development, ultimately benefiting both the individuals and the broader society.

Mimiola, an award-winning journalist sent in this piece.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was on Tuesday represented at the 17th annual Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria Banking and Financial Conference held in Lagos by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The headline of the story that came out of that event, as reported in the Nigerian Tribune, reads: “We’ve taken courageous steps to reform economic environment.”

In the body of the story, Tinubu, through his vice president, highlighted what he meant by the “bold steps” being undertaken to reform the economy. The president said: “Though painful in the short term, the removal of fuel subsidies is designed to free up budgetary resources for critical investments in infrastructure and social services, frequent adjustment of the monetary policy rate, a move aimed at curbing inflation and fostering a more market-oriented exchange rate system.

“We are expanding broadband penetration and encouraging the growth of tech startups through initiatives such as the Digital Nigeria programme. For example, we currently train three million Nigerian youths in digital technology and essential skills and then deploy them to innovation hubs. These efforts are designed to create jobs, increase productivity, and make financial services more accessible to Nigerians in all corners of the country. It is essential to state that we are committed to achieving a 70% digital literacy level by 2027 through innovative approaches in delivering initiatives, continuous collaborations, and stakeholder engagement.”

Many would say those words are similar to what we’ve heard before. However, some would have wanted the president to touch base with the streets upon his return from China. He led the streets for years. He spoke their language when jeun soke was the popular lingo. Is the president abandoning his true self? Some would ask.

I’ve quoted the president’s speech at the CIBN programme extensively to showcase what is fast looking like a dialogue of the deaf between the streets of Nigeria and their leaders. Some people spoke a while ago, shouting ebi n pawa (we are hungry). The people are still hopeful the Ifa and Opele of the president will say something good, but what they are hearing about broadband expansion or bold reforms in the economy is not close. Surely the hungry man would find it difficult to understand the drive of Mr President and no matter how nice the digital drive sounds, the words will only enter the ears of a hungry man through his right and disappear through the left. Even as the government is yet to address how it intends to end hunger, the NNPCL added another sorrow with the increment in the pump price of petrol. As we speak, the corporation has again stopped the flow of fuel and queues have resurfaced. The product is expensive, it is also scarce. The NNPC is insulting us to our face. Even those who have the money to buy have to be humbled to spend hours in the filling stations.

As the Tinubu message dropped from Shettima’s lips, Nigerians were wondering what was amiss. Here is a president who has before him the case of an NNPCL, which suddenly jerked up fuel prices without any concrete explanation, save for the confusion it orchestrated in the process. Here is a president who should have questions for the same NNPC about why it has failed to actualise the purchase of fuel from the Dangote refinery, one week after the products were ready for lifting. And here is a president whose national oil giant has continued to favour massive fuel importation and payment of fuel subsidy instead of supporting local refining of petrol and the elimination of all the fraud associated with subsidy. The President was away when NNPCL inflicted yet another fuel price increase on the nation. The uninitiated believed he wasn’t aware, but he had shut down such thoughts when he told Nigerians in China “Can we help it?”

It must be distressing to the uninitiated who believed that once President Tinubu landed in the country, he would hear something different, maybe something to soothe the hurting nerves. But the President is already proving to be a different person from who he was when he heard and spoke the language of the streets and when he knew that fuel subsidy was a scam that it is.

Looking at the unfolding scenario between the street and President Tinubu, it appears the circumstances painted by WB Yeats in The Second Coming is afoot. Yeats talked about the Falcon not hearing the falconer/Things fall apart, the centre cannot hold…I pray the street and the Villa don’t get anywhere close to the scenes painted in the last part of WB Yeats’ poem, which informed the writing of another popular novel by our own Prof Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart.

But some warning shots are already oozing out of the nozzles as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland (Generalissimo of Yoruba), Iba Gani Adams, last week fired some warning signals.

In an open letter to the president, Adams said the poverty network in the land was expanding. He said: “President Bola Tinubu, Time is Going. We have no regret that we were created to inhabit this geographical space in the West African axis of the African continent. Obviously, past leaders, since 1960, disappointed Nigerians with the way Nigeria and Nigerians were badly led and resources selfishly managed.

“When you came with the ‘Emilokan’ coinage…many Nigerians were persuaded that…you will perform better than Muhammadu Buhari. On May 29, 2023, the Naira to a Dollar was less than N740. Today, it is more than N1,600.”

“From the North to the South, East to the West, the rate at which Nigerians are being abducted… It was as if these bloodthirsty maniacs have just been unleashed on Nigerians from the hottest part of hell.”

He asked the president to reconsider the incessant increase in fuel price, adding that the increment in fuel price from less than N200 to over N1000 per litre, and the devaluation of the Naira at the same time were draconian policies Nigerians are finding difficult to cope with.

Adam’s advice to the government may indeed have unruffled feathers here and there, especially among the class of Yoruba, who believe that the government of Tinubu must be jealously guided like the raw egg, but I am with Adams on this front. The Yoruba are known for saying the truth, no matter whose ox is gored. They did it to Obasanjo. They did so to the military. General Sani Abacha’s government was not spared even when it had a Yoruba son, Oladipo Diya, as number two.

If the Yoruba should do anything other than tell the truth to the incumbent government, the whole basis of their activism all these years would have been vanquished.

But as much as we know, Tinubu is not a wicked human being. Not a few persons around can testify to his goodwill and disposition for shared prosperity. But the advertised reforms are not working. If the iron bender keeps hitting the iron on one spot, it means he intends to get something out of it. The people are crying about being suffocated by the IMF/World Bank-designed reforms. They are saying the same thing every day. It is not about partisan politics. It’s about their reality. Tinubu has promised Eldorado after the pain. They heard similar lines from Generals Ibrahim Babangida, Abacha, and Muhammadu Buhari. None of the orange trees nurtured by these men yielded sweet fruits at the end of their years. The sad thing about it all is that those who prodded them to whip the citizens with those policies -the IMF and the World Bank never apologised for their failures.

If we may ask, what happened to Buhari’s economic programme, ERGP? What happened to SAP and all sorts they had foisted on us through the different governments? The realisation has to come from within; only Nigerians can build Nigeria. The late Prof Sam Aluko told Babangida, he didn’t listen. Thereafter, those who claimed there was no alternative to SAP have since moved on to other acronyms. If we don’t intend to continue to run our country like outposts of some foreign nations, the president needs to sing a different song.