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Each year, the United Nations celebrates July 11 as World Population Day. On November 15, 2022, the world crossed the eight billion mark. Global population trends have been fascinating to observe. It took hundreds of thousands of years to reach a billion and just 200 to hit seven billion in 2011. We’ve taken 12 years to reach this milestone between then and now. Some projections say that in just under 15 years—by 2037—the world population will hit nine billion, signifying a slowing growth rate in the global population due to factors like low and falling fertility levels.
However, while population growth rates are declining in more developed countries, Africa is picking up the baton.
[Source: Washington Post]
Studies show that Africa will be the only continent experiencing growth by the end of the century. Thirteen of the world’s twenty biggest urban centres will be in Africa. With Nigeria as the self-styled “giant of Africa” and the most populated black nation on earth, we’re set to take centre stage in the coming decades.
So it’s a bit of a shock—or a Nigerian thing, if you like—that till now, no one’s quite sure how many Nigerians there are. At some point, we’d need to reach a consensus on our census numbers.
Census data is vital for getting details about demographic and housing statistics. As previously reported, it also helps the government know how best to allocate resources. Like how much each state should be getting from the FG. With Nigeria projected to experience a population surge, the government needs accurate numbers to plan for this.
What’s the delay?
The UN puts Nigeria’s official population figure at 223.8 million. However, this figure is an estimate. In this case, the real culprit is the Nigerian government, which has failed to hold a long overdue census. Globally accepted standards say that a census should be held once every ten years. Nigeria is seven years past that deadline, having last held one in 2006.
The body in charge of conducting a census in Nigeria is the Nigerian Population Commission (NPC). Under the Buhari administration, at least ₦200 billion was spent on training census officials, mapping, and enumeration. The budget for the census has fluctuated over time, rising to ₦800 billion. The census, once set to happen in May, was kicked down the road to a date yet to be fixed by the current administration.
On July 6, the NPC chair, Nasir Kwarra, said President Tinubu would “eventually” fix a new census date—a roundabout way of saying that no one knows when it will hold. He also expressed concerns that expenses will mount and money running into billions of naira will go to waste if the census exercise isn’t held as soon as possible.
What else should you know?
This year’s World Population Day theme is “Unleashing the power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities.” As the theme suggests, gender upliftment should be an integral goal for any forward-thinking nation. Nigeria still practices some repressive practices against women. These include child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM) and breast ironing.
[Data in percentage on gender and harmful practices in Nigeria / UNFPA]
As we mark World Population Day, the government needs to act decisively on two key issues. One is conducting a census. And two, taking on more responsibility in tackling these issues affecting Nigerian women.
To get more insight into how this event is observed around the world, visit this link.
In Nigeria, the youth have persistently worked to get into power and make their voices heard despite being accused of being inexperienced.
At Zikoko Citizen, we celebrate the contributions of the Nigerian youth in shaping the country’s fourth republic and look ahead to the potential they hold for the future.
With the 2023 elections, we saw how social media became a primary news source and a platform for young Nigerians to participate in political conversations. This transformation has significantly impacted their news consumption and engagement, providing them with a wider perspective and influencing their political perceptions. In our WhatsApp community during and after the election, they remained actively involved and well-informed about current events. While many of them supported Peter Obi, who did not win the election, with Tinubu declared the winner amidst contested circumstances, they remain undeterred. They believe that despite the lessons learned, there are still many victories to be achieved.
One defining moment showcasing Nigerian youth’s power was the #ENDSARS protests in October 2020. Young Nigerians took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality and systemic injustice. While concrete police reforms may not have been immediately achieved, the protests ignited a spark of political awakening among the youth. The energy and passion displayed during this movement spilled over into the 2023 elections.
Many new voters were young people, with students comprising 40% of this group. It demonstrated that the youth have recognised their voting power and are actively participating in shaping the country’s political landscape.
How can you seize the future? Beyond the electoral process, young Nigerians must recognise that they have the potential to take charge of the country’s affairs. As older generations of politicians and ex-military figures prepare to depart from the political arena, a generational gap emerges, creating an opportunity for young people to step forward and lead.
Historical examples like Anthony Enahoro (37), Kaduna Nzeogwu (29), Yakubu Gowon (32), and Ojukwu (33), who made significant impacts at a young age, should serve as inspiration. You have to come to the realisation and believe that age is not a barrier to effecting change.
This comprehensive report delves into Nigeria’s political history, providing insights into the fourth republic and the influential role played by youth. It offers analysis, historical context, and practical guidance for active participation in shaping Nigeria’s future.
By downloading the Citizen Election Report, young Nigerians gain access to a wealth of knowledge and understanding. It equips them to make informed decisions, engage in meaningful political discourse, and contribute to the transformation of their country.
As we celebrate every young Nigerian, we are confident that this resource will prepare you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The news is out. Industrial product designer and ambassador of the Global Talent Visa platform (TechNation), Funfere Koroye, has a history of violence and abuse against women. This raises an important question: “How can victims of abuse and sexual violence obtain justice?”
When Ozzy Etomi, a gender and culture writer, asked her Twitter followers on July 1, 2023, about organisations that could help victims of stalking, harassment, and battering, not many people had an idea of what was going on. And the responses she got were filled with curiosity about who the stalker was, without many positive responses about which organisations the victim could go to.
A week later, Etomi revealed the alleged actions of stalking, sexual harassment, and violence by Koroye against his Ex.
I was approached 2 weeks ago by a concerned third party, about a woman who was terrified of her ex who had been stalking, harrassing and threatening her for 2+ years, following a physically abusive relationship. If you recall I came on twitter asking if any orgs could help.
The news so far has sparked public outrage. It has also gotten the attention of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (Lagos DSVA), which has promised to work with the Ex to receive support, protection, and justice.
Sexual harassment, stalking, and physical assault by men are problems that women face. But to understand what to do in these contexts, let’s explain what the Law says.
Under Section 46 of the Violence Against Persons Act, stalking is listed as a type of ‘harrassment.’
Under Section 17 of the same act, a person who stalks another commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 2 years, a fine not exceeding N500,000, or both.
Sexual harassment is listed as a form of sexual violence under Section 264 of the 2004 Criminal Code Act. It says that “anyone who sexually harasses another commits a felony that is liable on conviction to imprisonment for three years.”
For Rape
According to Section 359 of the Criminal Code Act of Nigeria, any attempt to commit rape is liable to 14 years imprisonment.
Under Section 1 (2) of the 2015 Violence Against Persons Act, the offender will get a life imprisonment sentence if convicted and 14 years imprisonment if the offender is under 14.
You are a victim or know someone who needs help; what can you do?
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos DSVA, Tiwalola Rhodes-Adeniyi, told Citizen that victims of these crimes should first be able to “build their case by having evidence.”
If you wonder what building your case with evidence looks like, it involves getting hold of and presenting text messages, voice recordings, pictures, or videos. It can also include physical evidence like bruises, wounds, or damaged clothing.
This all helps your case and helps you achieve justice. According to Rhodes-Adeniyi, “If a victim has these, one can successfully get an emergency restraining order.”
Usually, police officers give an emergency restraining order in domestic and sexual violence cases where there is immediate danger or an inability to go to court immediately. These usually last for 5-7 days.
Olivia Ovuodo-Peters, a sexual and gender-based violence expert, shares that one can always follow up with police personnel if they don’t respond quickly.
According to Ovuodo-Peters, “If you report to the police on duty at the Sexual Base Desk and don’t hear from them, you can write a letter explaining your case to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO),” and if that doesn’t work, you can write to the State’s Commissioner of Police and copy the appropriate DPO.
However, not everyone sees going to the police as their first line of action. The Communications Officer at Stand to End Rape (STER), Elfrida Adeleye, recommends that victims should always contact a non-governmental organisation (NGO) when filing these cases.
According to Ayodele, these NGOs already have contacts in important governmental ministries such as the Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of Women Affairs. Thus, they can help “push the right buttons to get these cases heard faster. You don’t need to go in alone.”
How can social media best help you?
Rhodes-Adeniyi passionately advocates for the use of social media as a platform to shed light on sexual assault, harassment, and abuse. In her view, it is a powerful tool to “raise public awareness on cases” and support victims who have experienced such atrocities. She firmly believes that victims should have the freedom to speak the truth to power in their own way without being dictated how to do so.
With genuine concern, Rhodes-Adeniyi asserts, “We shouldn’t tell a victim how to speak truth to power.” She recognises that social media can be instrumental in calling for justice and creating a collective voice against these injustices. However, she cautions that social media alone is “not to make a formal report.”
Rhodes-Adeniyi insightfully reveals the potential risks faced by victims who do not formally report their cases. She highlights the possibility of the offender filing a lawsuit, accusing the victim of defamation through libel or slander.
To reduce this risk, she strongly recommends victims “formally file their case with evidence with the police, an NGO, or a court of law” before resorting to social media. Rhodes-Adeniyi suggests additional steps, such as visiting a hospital to obtain medical documentation if there are visible injuries. She also emphasised that having an “official statement of the case somewhere” is crucial.
Rhodes-Adeniyi advises victims to safeguard themselves legally by formally reporting these cases. This will ensure their claims are supported by substantial evidence and provide a solid foundation in the event of a legal backlash.
By taking these steps, victims can effectively navigate Nigeria’s complex justice system while leveraging social media to shed light on their experiences and rally support for their cause.
Which organisations can you reach out to for help?
STER (Stand to End Rape Initiative)
The Stand to End Rape (STER) initiative is an enterprise advocating against sexual violence, and supporting survivors with psychosocial services. They handle all forms of sexual violence.
You can reach out to them by filling out this form or sending an email to the team here.
The Mirabel Centre
The Mirabel Centre is Nigeria’s first sexual assault referral centre where survivors can get medical and psychological aid.
You can call them at 08187243468, 08155770000, or 0701 349 1769. You can also visit them at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja General Hospital Road, Ikeja, Lagos.
Alternatively, you can send an email to sarc@pjnigeria.org
The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF)
WARIF is a non-profit organisation. WARIF helps to address high incidence of sexual violence, and rape amongst young women across Nigeria.
You can contact them at 0809 210 0008 or you can send an email to info@warifng.org
The Lagos Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA)
DSVA is an organisation under the Lagos State government. They help eradicate domestic and sexual violence in the state.
You can contact them at 08000333333 or email them at info@lagosdsva.org
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA)
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation comprised of women lawyers, formed in 1964. They take pro-bono cases across Nigeria, usually on domestic, sexual, and other related violence against women.
You can visit their website to find the branch closest to you or call +234 708 849 6115
The universe must be answering only Bola Tinubu’s prayers right now because, barely three months after his inauguration as the 16th president of Nigeria, he has been elected as the new Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
On July 9, 2023, during the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, Tinubu emerged as the new ECOWAS Chairman to succeed the current Guinea-Bissau’s president, Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embalo.
During Tinubu’s inaugural speech, he emphasised the importance of democracy, stating that coups would no longer be accepted in West-African countries. Also, he raised the alarm about the insecurity and terrorism hindering our progress and promised to improve the region’s economy through partnerships and investments.
This isn’t the first time ECOWAS will be chaired by a Nigerian
As is commonly known, ECOWAS, established on May 28, 1975, after the signing of the Treaty of Lagos, consists of 15 member countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Togo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Guinea-Bissau.
And so far, ECOWAS has been headed by eight former Nigerian presidents and Heads of State. They include:
So clearly, Tinubu’s following in the footsteps of his predecessors, but what exactly will his responsibilities be as the chairman of ECOWAS?
Head ECOWAS summits:
By virtue of the position, the Chairperson will offer political leadership and guidance and preside over subsequent ECOWAS meetings. He will oversee resolutions and decision-making processes while ensuring cooperation between member countries.
Conflict resolution:
The ECOWAS treaty, which all of the organization’s members have signed, states that Tinubu will be crucial to preserving peace and stability in the region. This might involve mediation, diplomatic peace talks, and conflict prevention initiatives.
Implementation of policies:
The ECOWAS Chairman is responsible for creating and executing critical programmes, policies, and projects that will foster the region’s economic, scientific, and industrial progress.
Represent ECOWAS:
Another responsibility of the ECOWAS chairperson is to represent the interests of West Africa in regional and international meetings and forums such as the African Union (AU) summits, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, and the European Union (EU) summits, amongst others.
Now, Bola Tinubu carries the hopes and dreams of not only Nigeria but the whole sub-region. There is hope in the air that, for our sake, he will not only hit the ground running but also positively surpass all expectations.
Last week, former Ogun state governor, Gbenga Daniels, made the news when he disclosed that he had written to his state government demanding that his allowances and pension as a former governor be suspended now that he’s a senator representing Ogun East district.
We’re always happy to call out Nigerian politicians when they misbehave. We are equally happy to commend them when they do the right thing. In a letter Daniels shared on his Twitter page on July 6, he revealed that his monthly payment was ₦676,376.95k.
What did the letter say?
The letter, addressed to the Ogun state governor, Dapo Abiodun, read in part:
“I write to request for the suspension of my monthly pension/allowances of 676,376.95 (gross) (Six Hundred and Seventy-Six Thousand, Three Hundred Seventy-Six Naira, Ninety-Five Kobo) being paid as a former Executive Governor of Ogun State.
The request is in compliance with my conscience, moral principle and ethical code against double emoluments that a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who hitherto was a former State Governor shall not be entitled to the payment of pension and allowances from such state.”
That said, there have been reports in the news that President Tinubu’s ministerial cabinet would have at least 42 ministers and 20 special advisers. This points to a bloated cabinet, which is sure to put a drain on the government’s finances.
Naturally, the current administration would argue that it is within the president’s right to appoint many ministers from across the federation, keeping with the federal character principle. Not many Nigerians agree.
It may be a long shot to ask the president to trim down his cabinet. However, he can consider cutting his wages and asking his appointees to make that sacrifice. According to the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), ministers and cabinet members, such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, earn at least ₦650,136.65k every month. Ministers of state get ₦628,056.91k. However, this may not account for all of their allowances.
As a matter of urgency, the government should look to downsize. If others like Daniels are on double remuneration, it is unconscionable. Those politicians should toe the honourable path and have the extra emoluments terminated. The RMFAC should also be up and about plugging these leakages.
Kudos to Daniels, who has done an arguably decent thing. Other Nigerian politicians should take a cue from him. As citizens, you can tweet at your elected leaders asking them to move a motion to cut out double remuneration for former governors now in the National Assembly or reduce total pensions for ex-Governors.
The last time the esteemed Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, made the news was in April when he almost came to blows with the Obidients, whom he accused of fascism. That didn’t sit well with them, and they fired heavy salvos in Prof’s direction. It would take a visit to Soyinka from their principal, the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, to diffuse the tension. But that hasn’t stopped them from giving Soyinka the bombastic side-eye.
Almost three months later, Soyinka is in another fight. This time, not on social media, but in faraway Kwara and its emirate capital, Ilorin.
So what’s the gist?
Punch reported that a Muslim group, Majlisu Shabab li Ulamahu Society, based in Ilorin, went to the home of an Osun priestess, Yeye Ajesikemi Olokun Omolara Olatunji. They warned her not to host a festival known as Isese in the state. It was reported that she released posters announcing a three-day event in celebration of Yoruba deities.
Ilorin is an emirate. It’s ruler is Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari. In reaction to the group’s activities, a spokesperson for the Emir said the Emir supported their actions. Although the spokesperson stated that Gambari did not send them, he added that the Emir made it public that no idolatry activities should be held in the Ilorin Emirate.
His words: “The Emir has made it public that he’s not in support. He’s warned them to stay away from Kwara or Ilorin Emirate. So, any group that shares the same view and opinion with His Royal Highness can also come out and then do such, which the group you just mentioned now has done.”
Essentially, the Emir thinks Yeye’s actions constitute idolatry. According to Gambari, that has never happened in Ilorin and would be heavily resisted should it be attempted.
Somehow, the news got to Soyinka, which made him angry enough to write a strongly-worded op-ed directed at Gambari.
How did Soyinka respond?
[Prof Wole Soyinka / The Cable]
Soyinka described Gambari’s actions as a “grievous insult to our race.” He said he teaches courses in another Emirate, Abu Dhabi, in the UAE. Soyinka said it allows festivals from different religions to occur without hindrance. He wondered why the opposite was the case back in Nigeria. He criticised Gambari’s stance for impeding the right to embrace our humanity, reflected in how we celebrate different worldviews. Soyinka called on the Emir to rein in the “agents of division” before closing with the following:
“There is a thin line between Power and Piety. Call Yeye Ajasikemi OIokun Omolara to your side. Make peace with her and make restitution in whichever way you can for this grievous insult to our race. We know the history of Ilorin and the trajectory of your dynasty — but these are not the issues. The issue is peaceful cohabitation, respect for other worldviews, their celebrations, their values and humanity. The issue is the acceptance of the multiple facets of human enlightenment.
The greatest avatars that the world has known were not without human frailties, flaws, and errors of understanding. You are NOT Omniscient. And you are not Omnipotent.”
How has Emir Gambari reacted?
[Emir Sulu Gambari / PM News]
The Emir hasn’t taken things lightly. In a statement signed by his spokesman on July 7, he said Soyinka was being “economical with the facts”. The statement said Soyinka’s claim that Gambari disallowed festivals was “nauseating” and “uncharitable” to the Ilorin people.
“To set records straight, Professor Wole Soyinka tends to be economical with facts, forgetting that nobody wants war. He decided to settle with a factor capable of causing societal chaos if not quickly averted.
[The Emir’s action] is to prevent crisis and not wait until it erupts. The cost of managing crises cannot be equated to the wisdom or courage required to prevent them. Such proactiveness is necessary to sustain peaceful co-existence in society. It’s, therefore, surprising to hear that the position of Professor Soyinka is identical to someone who does not consider what might transpire if the programme was hosted.
It may result in issues which could also lead to reprisal attacks by sympathisers or promoters of such belief (Isese festival) in other parts of the country.”
The ball is back in Soyinka’s court. While he makes a case for freedom of expression and religion, the Emir’s claim that the people of Ilorin would uniformly resist any such traditional proceedings cannot be ignored either. We’ll see how this plays out in the coming days.
There is a new social media platform that might be giving Elon Musk a run for his money and having him choke on whatever irks his throat. Ever since Twitter had Mr. Musk as its new landlord, things haven’t quite been the same. And on Wednesday, July 5, Meta launched a messaging app called “Threads” that looks like the start of a new era for many social media users.
What exactly is Threads, and how is it different?
Threads is a text-based social messaging app launched in over 100 countries that allows you to follow the same accounts you do on Instagram. You can post pictures or texts and like, comment, repost, and quote them. While it’s yet to have a trend table or options for sending private messages, unlike the Bird app, Threads is free, and you can put the worries of exceeding a daily limit behind you.
For many people, especially Nigerians who have a larger following on Instagram than Twitter, this new app is an opportunity to create a new social media personality. After all, it’s never too late to achieve your dreams of becoming an influencer. And it also looks like Nigerian lawmakers have the same idea as many of them have become “Tailors”, as many Nigerians call themselves on Threads. Hours after its launch, they’ve begun sewing content for many Nigerians.
Since the days of his campaign, no love has been lost between Tinubu and the Bird app, so Threads might finally give him a chance to breathe.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
If there’s one thing the Lagos state governor does well, it’s preaching the gospel of his good news and putting his legs in strategic corners, and a new app isn’t going to stop him.
Abba Kabir Yusuf
Kano state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, also didn’t carry last here. He’s already spreading his message of good tidings.
So far, eight other governors have joined the Threads app; they include Prince Dapo Abiodun, Ogun state governor; Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom state governor; Bala Mohammed, Bauch state governor; Peter Mbah, Enugu state governor; Biodun Oyebanji, Ekiti state governor; Uba Sani, Kaduna state governor; Yahaya Bello, Kogi state governor; and Seyi Makinde, Oyo state governor.
Other key lawmakers and political figures on the app are Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Atiku Abubakar, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Vice-President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin.
Also joining the Threads are some key government agencies, such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to remind you that you can’t escape tax in this administration, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), with their message of catching drug abusers and traffickers.
As expected, you’ll also find many media houses like the National Television Authority (NTA), Silverbird TV, Arise News, Channels Television, and the TVC on the new tailoring app.
And, of course, ZikokoCitizen is on Threads to ensure you’re always up to date with everything and anything Nigerian in politics, policies, and governance.
The ‘Japa’ season is upon us. Nigerians who intend to study abroad, especially in the UK, are getting their bags ready with lots of delight to relocate. In recent years, the UK has become popular as the preferred destination for higher education for many Nigerians and Africans.
If you’re getting ready to travel, then you definitely need to know what it takes to acquire a key document, the UK student visa. As you continue to read this article, you will learn about the following
Who can apply?
When can one apply?
What are the fees?
When can you arrive?
How long can you stay?
Who can apply?
Being an accepted student isn’t the only thing that matters. You must also:
Have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course – the amount will vary depending on your circumstances. You must have enough money to pay for your course for one academic year (up to nine months). You’ll also need to show you have enough money to support yourself—unless you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application.
How much money you need depends on where you will be studying. You’ll need either:
£1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London.
For courses outside London, £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months).
Have consent from your parents if you’re 16 or 17—you’ll need evidence of this when you apply
When can you apply?
This depends on whether you are living in or outside the UK. For Nigerians in the UK, the earliest application is 3 months before your course starts. It must also be applied for 28 days before your current visa expires. You’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.
For Nigerians outside the UK, you need to start your application process earlier, as you’d need 6 months. You’d also get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.
What are the fees?
UK student visas cost £363 (N356,000) for students outside the UK and £490 (N480,000) for students who wish to extend their studies or switch to a student visa inside the UK.
There is also a healthcare surcharge, which you can find out more about here.
When can you arrive?
You can arrive a month before your course starts (if your course is longer than 6 months) or a week before (if your course is shorter than 6 months).
But no matter when your course starts, you MUST NOT travel to the UK before the start date given on the visa. To be forewarned is to be forearmed.
How long can you stay?
A pertinent question for students who just finished their studies is, “How long can we stay here?”
Do not worry; you won’t be kicked out (or at least not right away). Everything depends on the length of your course and what studies you’ve already completed in the UK.
If you’re 18 or over and your course is at degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years. If it’s below degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 2 years.If you want to stay longer than five years, read more about the requirements here.
In May 2023, Tinubu’s Policy Advisory Council developed an economic report detailing his growth plan for Nigeria. We wrote about it here. If you feel up for it, take this quiz to test your knowledge of Nigeria’s economy.
