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Nigeria: A Nation that Thrives on Loots

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  • Nigeria: A Nation that Thrives on Loots

If there is anything to be taken away from the current economic recession, it is the fact that the Nigerian economy has been thriving on proceeds from loots, embezzlements and all kinds of criminal activities. It is also obvious that the 6-7 percent economic growth rates recorded during the past administrations were bubbles created by oil boom but sold to the Nigerian people as a sustainable economic expansion.

For instance, when oil price was $107 a barrel, a total of $29 billion out of the $55 billion that was generated in 2011 made it into the foreign reserves. Whereas the current administration has been able to save $33 billion with oil prices averaging $45 a barrel in the last 12-month. Even with crude oil hitting a 13-year low of $26 barrel in February 2016.

The question is, why wasn’t recession during the previous administration even though the foreign reserves was mere $29 billion? The answer is simple, the bulk of what wasn’t saved find its way into the economy through lavish spending, undisclosed investments and bribery, which in-turn help serviced the economy with just enough forex and bolstered consumer spending through loot-sustained manufacturing sector.

Similarly, on JP Morgan bond listing and positive ratings, the Nigerian economy was evaluated based on its oil revenue generation and not economic fundamentals. In 2013, when Nigeria was listed on emerging bond market index, the unemployment rate was averaging 9.76 percent, while inflation rate stood at 8.5 percent, the lowest in 5 years and still new job creation was weak, meaning the decision was solely based on oil revenue without a futuristic growth plan. Hence, the reason the country was delisted after global oil prices plunged by 70 percent and the refusal of the current administration to devalue the Naira to accommodate the fall in foreign revenues.

Accordingly, the banking and oil and gas sectors that were built on proceeds from loot and poor governance hit a rock bottom but not without dragging the Nigerian Stock Exchange market with it. That was another market driven by bogus sentiment. However, it was the global oil glut that burst the artificial bubbles and exposed the nation for what it truly is.

While plunged in revenue started the economic recession, it was loot that couldn’t find its way into the economy due to the ongoing war on corruption that worsens the situation as majority of the fund linked to a series of accused facing trials were in U.S. dollars. Experts like Sharafadeen Tella, an economist has blamed the booming parallel market on their activities, the very reason consumer prices are at a record high and consumer spending and new job creation plummeted.

However, despite all these shortcomings the present administration failed to formulate an appropriate policy to stimulate the economy and curtail high unemployment rate.  For instance, when IMF and economic experts advised the federal government to devalue the Naira, they refused. Until they realized that the external reserves couldn’t sustain the growing forex demands before introducing Forex Flexibility Policy on June 20, 2016 — three days to Brexit Referendum. A period when global risk and uncertainty were at the highest since 2009 economic recession. Therefore, the policy failed as global investors were skeptical of surged in emerging market risks.

Realizing the danger of low capital importation and forex revenue on the economy, the Central Bank of Nigeria hiked interest rate by 200 basis points from 12 percent to 14 percent not only to curb advancing inflation rate as announced by the apex bank but also to lure foreign investors to the capital market to supplement oil revenue. This further stressed businesses that were already struggling to meet financial obligations and forced a lot out of business following their inability to access cheap loans or repay previous ones.

Finally, while the recent surge in global oil prices is fueling economic recovery, it will be in futility if the nation fails to successfully diversify the economy and transform from import dependent economy to both export and domestic-product consuming economy.  One, it is unlikely that global oil prices will see the days of $115 a barrel due to the growing campaign against foil fuel and a series of pacts signed by nations to intensify efforts on renewable energy. Two, a mono-product economy like Nigeria may just be having a second chance at perfecting its policy as global oil demand is waning and might get worse over time. Countries like Saudi Arabia are already developing policies to diversify the economy and reduce the effect of oil on their economic performance.

The truth is the most populous black nation, Nigeria is at a critical juncture in history, an opportunity to build a new nation divulge of corruption but economically viable and in sync with the rest of the world or a total disintegration of the entire nation as failure to build an inclusive government as opposed to the conventional centralized government will further aggravate the aggrieved minority clamoring for change across the country and worsen long-term business outlook of the nation.

Is the CEO/Founder of Investors King Limited. A proven foreign exchange research analyst and a published author on Yahoo Finance, Businessinsider, Nasdaq, Entrepreneur.com, Investorplace, and many more. He has over two decades of experience in global financial markets.

Government

Lagos Eyes Investment Surge as Sanwo-Olu Unveils Growth Strategy

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State is spearheading a bold push to attract significant investment inflow to boost the state’s economic growth.

During a Pre-Summit Investor Roundtable at the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS 3.0), held at Eko Hotels and Suites, the governor outlined strategic opportunities for investors.

With the theme “Invest Lagos – Investment Opportunities,” the summit was organized by the Sterling One Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment.

Attended by business leaders, chambers of commerce, and industry captains, the event underscored Lagos’ potential as a hub for economic activity.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ positive economic outlook, citing an expanding population and sustainable infrastructure as key growth drivers.

Despite challenging business environments, the state’s economy has shown resilience, welcoming new investments while sustaining existing ones.

The governor emphasized reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business. He mentioned that digitizing services had reduced bureaucratic hurdles, fostering a stable business climate.

Sanwo-Olu assured potential investors of the state’s commitment to creating a supportive environment that ensures returns and security for investments.

“In the last five years, Lagos’ GDP has grown by 50 percent,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “We aim to sustain this growth and ensure the gains of the past years are not reversed.”

Sanwo-Olu identified sectors ripe for investment, including transportation, tourism, health insurance, and waterways. He expressed the government’s dedication to advancing development plans in these areas.

Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, highlighted Lagos’ economic strides, noting that the state’s GDP had increased from N27 trillion to N41 trillion in five years.

She detailed strategic investments, particularly the allocation of N550.7 billion for infrastructure in 2024, and the commitment of N44.33 billion to food security initiatives.

Sterling Bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, pointed out that economic growth in Africa is often hindered by an unstable investment climate.

The summit aimed to build investor confidence by fostering trust and transparency in business environments.

“Lagos remains a leading destination for investors,” Suleiman noted. “The state provides clarity and access to markets, maintaining consistency in its investment strategies.”

Sanwo-Olu’s administration continues to focus on diversifying Lagos’ economy through strategic investments in various sectors.

The state’s proactive approach has positioned it as a global city and an emerging African financial center.

The governor’s initiative is expected to further solidify Lagos’ reputation as a prime investment destination, paving the way for sustained economic growth and development.

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Government

Vice-President Harris Gathers Momentum as Democratic Nominee

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Vice-President Kamala Harris has secured the support needed to become the Democratic nominee for president.

This was after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek re-election, endorsing Harris as his successor.

According to CBS News, Harris has received endorsements from over 1,976 delegates, surpassing the threshold needed to clinch the nomination in the first round of voting at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) scheduled for August.

Delegations from at least 27 states have expressed full support, showcasing a strong backing across the nation.

In her address to campaign staff in Wilmington, Delaware, Harris expressed gratitude for the widespread support, adding that she committed to uniting the party and the country.

“We have 106 days until Election Day, and in that time, we have some hard work to do,” she stated.

Harris laid out her vision for America, contrasting it with that of her likely opponent, Donald Trump.

Speaking on the direction of the campaign thus far, she said “Our campaign has always been about two different versions of what we see as the future of our country. One focuses on the future, the other focuses on the past.”

She acknowledged the accomplishments of the Biden administration, highlighting her pride in serving as vice-president.

“My time serving as vice-president was one of the greatest honors of my life,” Harris said, underscoring her dedication to continuing the work they started.

In a phone call to his campaign team, Biden praised Harris, urging his supporters to rally behind her. “I’m hoping you’ll give every bit of your heart and soul that you gave to me to Kamala,” he said.

Despite stepping back from the race, Biden vowed to remain actively involved in supporting Harris and emphasized the importance of defeating Trump, calling him “a danger to this nation.”

Harris’s nomination marks a significant milestone, but challenges remain. The campaign will focus on addressing key issues such as healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality.

With millions of dollars pouring into her campaign since Biden’s announcement, Harris aims to capitalize on the momentum and build a coalition that appeals to a broad spectrum of voters.

As the DNC approaches, Harris is expected to formally accept the nomination, solidifying her position as the Democratic leader.

The coming months will be crucial as she works to unite the party and reach out to undecided voters. With her historic nomination, Harris stands poised to make a lasting impact on the future of American politics.

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Government

President Declines Nomination, Endorses Harris for 2024

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In a significant political announcement on his X.com account, President Joe Biden has decided to forgo the opportunity to seek re-election in 2024, instead throwing his full support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

The surprise move, shared with the public this morning, represents a pivotal moment in the Democratic Party’s journey toward the upcoming presidential election.

In his statement, Biden said that his choice to step aside is driven by a desire to concentrate on his remaining duties as President.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside Harris, calling her selection as his Vice President in 2020 “the best decision” he has made. “My fellow Democrats,” Biden began, “I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

The President’s announcement signifies a strategic shift in the 2024 election landscape. By endorsing Kamala Harris, Biden not only aims to consolidate support within the party but also to set the stage for a unified front against former President Donald Trump.

“Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year,” Biden declared. “Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”

This endorsement comes as a surprise to many, given Biden’s earlier commitment to seeking re-election.

However, it reflects a broader strategic maneuver to ensure party unity and strengthen the Democratic position in the face of a formidable opponent. By focusing on Harris, Biden aims to leverage her growing popularity and political acumen to fortify the party’s chances in the upcoming election.

Kamala Harris, who has served as Vice President since January 2021, will now be thrust into the spotlight as the presumptive Democratic nominee.

Her campaign is expected to build on the legacy of the current administration while addressing key issues facing the nation.

The move also raises the stakes for the Republicans, who will need to prepare for a robust campaign from a seasoned political leader in Harris.

As the 2024 election cycle ramps up, Biden’s endorsement is likely to reshape the dynamics of the race, influencing both Democratic strategies and Republican responses.

The coming months will be critical as Harris and her team work to solidify their platform and rally support from voters across the nation.

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