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Raids on Dangote group inimical to growth of economy – ACF
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Arewa Consultative Forum, Kano State chapter, has described the raid of the premises Dangote headquarters and those of other 51 big business establishments by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC as capable of discouraging foreign investors who are already showing signs of reluctance to bring in their money into the country.
KANO FOCUS reports that the ACF calls on the Federal Government to devise amicable ways of making our top business establishments to make greater contributions to our economic growth; and halt the raids, as the nation struggles hard to attract foreign investment and other key ingredients to redeem the economy.
The call was contained in a statement issued by the publicity secretary of the ACF Alhaji Bello Sani Galadanchi on Tuesday.
The statement recalled that “On 1st January 2024, operatives of the EFCC stormed the Head Office of the Dangote Group at Ikoyi, Lagos. The search was linked with the probe of 52 companies by the anti- graft agency over forex transaction in the last 10 years. Prior to the visit/ raid, Dangote Group had sought clarification on why certain documents were demanded, but this proved abortive. They also requested additional time to “compile and properly present the required extensive documentation”. Neither the clarification, nor the extension were granted.
“On January 4 EFCC personnel descended on Dangote Head Office demanding same documents the company’s officials had already brought to the premises of the anti- graft police.
“The raid of the premises Dangote Headquarters and those of other 51 big business establishments by the EFCC is capable of discouraging foreign investors who are already showing signs of reluctance to bring in their money into the country.”
The statement noted that ” the Arewa Consultative Forum, Kano State chapter, and the good people of Kano are apprehensive about the raid on Dangote because we see it as an unhealthy development that could further worsen our economic situation, scare investors, and hinder Nigeria’s growth prospects.
“The move would further exacerbate our current difficult situation and deter potential investment. We can not but agree with the position advanced by no less one of the most respected members of the National Assembly who reacted thus: ”
It added that “Given our current fragile economic situation, this move by the EFCC will worsen things. Now is not the time for this; it is the time for the nation to focus on the integration of African economies and the expansion of trade and investments across the continent to stimulate growth and create employment opportunities, not conducting raid on its largest conglomerate.
“Dangote’s impact for decades has been felt through various facets of our economy. The company played a crucial role in transforming our economy from heavy import dependence to a net exporter in critical industries.
“ACF reaffirms that no one individual, group or institutions are above the laws of the Land. Our position is that if any of the companies under the Dangote seal, or among the remaining 51 affected companies under probe, violated any of our laws, appropriate sanctions should be applied. In the more advanced economies, that is what obtains. For instance, at various times Microsoft, Beta, BP and several business concerns had been fined by the US government for infractions committed.”
The ACF recalled that “Recently, P&G and few other conglomerates left Nigeria. Aliko Dangote is one of the most patriotic businessmen who had chosen to invest in Nigeria. There are several equally very rich people who kept their resources in portfolio investments, real estate and other endeavours in foreign lands at the expense of Nigeria.
“We should celebrate Dangote and all our local big companies for their doggedness, persistence and unwavering commitment to bolster the Nigerian economy.
To this end, the ACF calls on the Federal Government to devise amicable ways of making top business establishments to make greater contributions to economic growth; and halt the raids, as the nation struggles hard to attract foreign investment and other key ingredients to redeem the economy.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken a decisive step to address the prolonged challenges faced by Kano students unable to access their academic certificates throughout Ganduje’s administration.
In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday, it was revealed that Governor Yusuf held a critical meeting with the management of Near East University in Cyprus to tackle the issue.
The discussion focused on the overdue release of certificates for Kano students who graduated between 2015 and 2019.
Many of these graduates, particularly from fields such as Medicine and Nursing, have been unable to advance in their careers due to the non-payment of tuition fees by the Ganduje led immediat past administration.
The governor described the situation as a major setback, not only for the affected students but also for the state, which has been deprived of skilled professionals in critical sectors particularly the healthcare service.
However, he expressed optimism following what he called fruitful discussions with the university management aimed at settling the liabilities and facilitating the release of the certificates.
“This situation has been a significant setback for our children, hindering their dreams and aspirations, and it has also affected our state, which is in dire need of their expertise,” the governor remarked.
“One cannot imagine that as governor, Ganduje cannot pay for tuition of these medical students who much need for immediate employment with Kano state government, it is a shame on him”
“We remain committed to prioritizing education and the welfare of our people as a foundation for sustainable growth.”
Governor Yusuf’s intervention underscores his administration’s resolve to address systemic challenges in the education sector.
The anticipated resolution of this issue is expected to enable the graduates to fulfill their potential and make meaningful contributions to Kano State’s development.
This effort signals a new chapter of hope for the affected graduates and reaffirms the government’s commitment to building a brighter future for its citizens.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Bayero University, Kano (BUK) received five teams from the National Universities Commission (NUC) on Monday, December 9, 2024, to accredit nine academic programmes.
KANO FOCUS reports that the programmes under review include BSc Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Engineering, BSc Forensic Science, Masters in Entrepreneurship, Early Childhood Education, and Primary Education.
This marks the third phase of BUK’s ongoing accreditation process, following the successful review of 30 programmes between November 18 and 30, 2024 under phase one and two.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Sani Muhammad Gumel, emphasized the significance of accreditation as a peer-review exercise that enhances the quality of teaching and research at the university.
Professor Bashir Maina, speaking on behalf of the teams, highlighted their mission to assess the programmes and provide recommendations in line with global best practices.
The Director of Academic Planning, Professor Yusuf Garba, explained that the current accreditation process is part of the final phase, which involves the evaluation of 22 programmes in total.
The NUC accreditation teams are expected to submit their findings and recommendations to the Vice-Chancellor later this week.
Zulaiha Danjuma
The rise of digital payment systems in Nigeria has transformed the way people conduct financial transactions.
KANO FOCUS reports, In Kano, traders in the Hausawa Sabon Titi community have been at the forefront of this shift, embracing digital payment solutions to facilitate their daily business activities.
The introduction of the MoniePoint POS machine has revolutionized businesses in the area. Mr. Kabiru Yahaya, a provision store owner, noted that the cash squeeze prompted him to adopt the MoniePoint POS machine. “Most of our customers prefer to pay electronically, so we had to adapt to meet their needs,” he explained.
Similarly, Yusuf Usman, a bread and tea vendor, reported that 85% of his customers use ATM cards, mobile wallets, or phone transfers to make payments. “The MoniePoint POS machine has made it easier for me to receive payments and make payments to suppliers too,” he said.
Provision Shop at Sabontiti, Kano
Benefits of Inclusive Instant Payment Systems
The adoption of inclusive instant payment systems has not only improved business operations but also enhanced financial security. Mr. Usman noted that the use of digital payments has reduced the risk of robbery and burglary.
Inclusive instant payment systems offer several benefits
Increased financial inclusion: IIPS provides access to financial services for underserved populations, promoting economic growth and development. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the number of Nigerians with access to financial services increased from 36.8% in 2016 to 63.2% in 2020.
Improved economic efficiency: Digital payments reduce transaction costs, increase the speed of transactions, and enhance the overall efficiency of the economy. A study by McKinsey found that digital payments can increase GDP by up to 6% in some African countries.
Reduced risk of cash transactions: IIPS minimizes the risks associated with cash transactions, such as robbery, burglary, and counterfeiting. According to the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), the value of digital transactions in Nigeria increased by 50% in 2022, reaching ₦10.9 trillion.
Bread seller
Nigeria’s Cash Crunch Drives Digital Payments
Nigeria’s economy has traditionally relied heavily on cash transactions. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns accelerated the adoption of digital banking and inclusive instant payment systems. The government’s efforts to curb excess cash circulation and promote digital payments have further driven the growth of IIPS.
According to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the number of active mobile money agents in Nigeria increased from 10,000 in 2019 to over 1.4 million in 2022.
Challenges and Limitations of IIPS
Despite the benefits of IIPS, there are challenges and limitations to its adoption. Some of these challenges include:
*Infrastructure constraints:* The lack of reliable internet connectivity and electricity in some areas can hinder the adoption of IIPS. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the country’s internet penetration rate stood at 44.6% as of 2022.
*Security concerns:* The risk of cyber attacks and data breaches can deter some individuals and businesses from adopting IIPS. According to a report by KPMG, the average cost of a data breach in Nigeria is estimated to be around ₦2.5 billion.
*Regulatory issues:* The lack of clear regulations and guidelines can create uncertainty and confusion for providers and users of IIPS. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the regulator is working to develop a more comprehensive regulatory framework for digital payments in Nigeria.
Expert Reaction
Dr. Tijjani Ahmed, a Senior Lecturer at the Hussaini Adamu Federal Polytechnic Kazaure and a Research Fellow at the African Center for Tax and Governance, explained that the advancement of digital technology and the introduction of digital instant payments have increased financial inclusion for small businesses.
Dr. Tijjani Ahmed
“Prior to 2015, Nigeria had experienced low financial inclusion, with over 40% of the populace financially excluded,” he explained. Dr. Ahmed noted that this excluded demographics were not just individuals but also businesses that were in need of financial inclusion.
“Largely, the businesses in Northern Nigeria are informal, and one of the requirements in this modern age is to be banked and run a business account,” he said.
Dr. Ahmed added that with the advent of inclusive instant payment services like MoniePoint, the majority of small businesses are now able to be involved in the financial system, making and receiving payments, paying bills, and keeping track of their financial inputs and outputs.
“The Nigerian government has a target to phase out cash transactions by 2030; these digital financial technologies will help this transition, making businesses resilient because without these financial inclusive platforms and no cash, business will die,” he said.
The adoption of inclusive instant payment systems in Nigeria has transformed the way people conduct financial transactions. As the country continues to navigate its cash crunch, the growth of IIPS is expected to drive financial inclusion, improve economic efficiency, and reduce the risks associated with cash transactions. With the increasing adoption of IIPS, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in promoting financial inclusion and driving economic growth.
As the country continues to evolve and adapt to the changing financial landscape, it is essential to address the challenges and limitations associated with IIPS to ensure its sustainable growth and development.
This story is produced under the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Fellowship of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and Co-Develop in partnership with Kano Focus Newspaper online.
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