Why Always Blame The Young People?

I told the government and the Nigerian youths that free competition cannot flow smoothly in an economy where government policies are anchored on taxation and artificial monopoly.
I am a Nigerian youth with some knowledge of micro, macro and development economics and I must tell you that in an economy where microeconomic theories like production, consumption, firm, competition and so on did not correlate effectively with the macroeconomic theories like GDP, Taxation, Government policies and so on, such economy is bound to face challenges in the gross domestic output.
People are complaining on how Nigerians are not into manufacturing, massive production, entrepreneurship and increase export, you know we import even tooth-pick. Have you ever thought of checking the areas where we have comparative advantage, availability/ accessibilty of raw materials, inter-relation of industries, VAT rate, government policies on taxation, economic ideology and politico-economic template, and so on?
Did you know that the so-called government agenda to industrialize Nigeria will end like dreams if some independent variable remain constant? Did you know that the price for the registration of a business name with the government of Nigeria has risen from 4000 naira to 10,000 naira with a fee of 500 naira just to check name availability?
How many times have government attracted business schools just like they have in Dubai to teach Nigerians at a subsidized rate? Oh! You think China and South Korea grew by imagination and shady axioms? You really need to think twice.
Have you ever wondered why more Nigerians succeed more outside Nigeria even in UK a place known for her dependence on taxation than inside Nigeria?
Research first before you dance to the political rhythm.
I strongly argue that the Nigerian government in collaboration with some Nigerian elites intentionally want the nation to remain poor just for self benefits until Malemas can stand up to challenge the status quo...

An open debate!

By Nebo Obinna Collins

Commonwealth Young Achievers Book

In commemoration of the 2015 Commonwealth theme "Young Commonwealth", the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) compiled success stories of 112 young people from across the Commonwealth from different backgrounds. The book also included some informative articles on youth volunteerism, peace building, politics, social change, entrepreneurship, environment and civic participation.

The 323 pages book presented stories of success, challenges and hopes of young people from 41 countries in the Commonwealth, among which 32 from Africa and Europe, 29 from Asia, 23 from Caribbean and Americas, and 12 from Pacific. The book is made up of 59 females and 53 males achievers. Nominations for the achievers were opened online and further nominations were made from different international civil society organisations and CYC partners.

The soft presentation of the book was made by the CYC chairperson, Ahmed Adamu, during the General Assembly of the CYC in Malta on 24th November 2015.

"The Commonwealth Young Achievers book is aimed to inspire young people to unleash their potentials, learn from their colleagues, and encourage the achievers, as well as to encourage sharing of ideas and best practices among young people. The book will serve as a symbol of unity in diversity and monument of contemporary young achievers. The book also contain some very educative articles written by the young people themselves".

The book is available online on the CYC website under resources menu. You can download your copy here

THE REDUCTION OF MINIMUM WAGE IN NIGERIA

According to Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, minimum wage is defined as the lowest remuneration that employers may legally pay to workers. Many have their opinions about the minimum wage, supports say it reduces poverty, increases the standard of living of workers, reduces inequality, boost morale and forces businesses to be more efficient. In contrast, opponents of the minimum wage  say it increases poverty, increases unemployment (particularly among unskilled or inexperienced workers).

       The current minimum wage of N18,000 which is calculated on monthly basis was calculated based on cost of living calculated by trade unions, based on inflation and statistical data from the national bureau of statistics and others related agencies.

      There is only one minimum wage act that covers both the public and private sectors. It also covers workers at federal, state and local government levels. 

      Pertaining to the current decision of some of the Nigeria governors to reduce the minimum wage, the governors who said they can no longer pay the monthly minimum wage to workers blamed the steep fall in the price of crude oil from $126 to the current $41 per barrel. 

     The opponents of the minimum wage reduction like the Akwa Ibom NLC (Nigeria Labour Congress) president Akpan-Nsoh says "Nobody should tamper with the 18,000 minimum wage. It is a law that has come to stay.

    In my opinion, I think just like NLC president of Akwa Ibom said nobody should have to tamper with the 18,000 minimum wage. 

     In an interview with NLC President Ayuba Wabba he said: "We reject it totally. Nigerian workers will never
accept it. We all know that it is a reality that N18,000 can no longer take the workers home and cannot sustain any family. Many countries are reviewing their minimum wage upwards to meet the current realities.

     In Nigeria, there is even greater need to increase the minimum wage because our currency had been devalued; inflation keeps rising among others. “What is the exchange rate of the Nigerian currency to the US Dollar or what is value of the N18,000 to the US Dollar? We must reject the move with all our might because we are not the cause of the problem. The government should think out of the box to find solution to the problem. When there was excess crude money, the workers did not benefit and so, we cannot bear the brunt. If the governors want us to close down the country, then the workers have no option than to do that. “What about their outrageous salaries, bloated overhead cost, inflated contracts and others? This issue is going to feature prominently and we need to come with a strong statement on it. Obviously we cannot bear the brunt. The governors should think how to generate revenue instead of depending on oil money and allocation from Abuja. The governors should know that the ₦18,000 minimum wage was not just negotiated, it was a product of a tripartite process involving the
governors, employers and organised labour. It passed through the National Assembly before former President Jonathan signed it into law. If any party wants to breach or renege on such agreement, they should be prepared for the consequences. We know there are challenges, but the governors should face reality. The problem is the cost of governance and too many frivolities. Today, with crazy bills from electricity providers, increase in fuel price, school fees, hospital bills, and other utilities, ₦18,000 cannot take any worker to the bus stop.

    Why should Nigerians have to suffer all these?! I am sure that those governors in support of reduction in minimum wage give their children more than that monthly for shopping. Workers are not monkeys. They shouldn't be paid peanuts. If there should be any reduction, it should be the salaries of those at the top not those earning ₦18,000. 

      Being a Governor is never by force. They asked for the job. If they knew they could not pay minimum wage why then did they contest?. I know for a fact that even plants, flowers at Government House cost more than ₦18,000 to maintain in a month, how much more a human? Governors keep going abroad without bringing in any initiative for sustainable jobs and then wake up and decide to reduce minimum wage, Why are they not contemplating the reduction of their own wages and allowances?. A man earning ₦18,000 struggles to pay rent, feed family & pay school fees, to reduce his pay is to punish his family.

    In conclusion, the government should not depend only on the nation's oil. How can a country like Nigeria
that is so blessed with the natural resources, with best brains in this world depend only on oil? I know it is funny to say that Nigeria is going bankrupt but it is what it is, our government have incurred huge debts and are still struggling to pay back, but really where and what has the borrowed money gone to. Lagos state owes about 400BN debt although obviously it was used for infrastructure and many others things while some where pocketed but should the poor masses have suffer the deeds of their supposed leaders by the reduction of their minimum wage?. 

                        By  Ifeoma Precious Imoh

Major Youth Challenges in Enugu State.

Massive youth unemployment is a major problem in Nigeria as a whole and not particular to the state. There are so many factors that have led to this huge youth negligence in Enugu State, starting with the fact that those in power are not actually doing the right thing. A wise man once said 'if the president wants an effective minister of youth,  he should ensure that his nominee is a youth and a youth is one between the ages of 18-35", this I strongly support. 

      The reasons why I think there are massive youth under development in Enugu is due to the following reasons; to begin with the popular factor of unemployment which has been a major contributor to poor youth growth in Enugu.

-The rate of unemployment in Enugu is amongst the highest in the country, mostly common in young graduates. Enugu formerly the administrative capital of the south east geo political zone in Nigeria is the largest city in the zone, with at least five tertiary institutions but also one of the highest with unemployment and crime rate in the country. 

    The National Bureau of Statistics says that at least twenty-eight per cent of youths of the state are unemployed. 

     The job rush at company vacancies exemplifies the scorching job shortage in Enugu State which makes me think that the government should be held responsible for unemployment in the state. In a situation where over 10,000 job seekers besiege an organization for 10 openings and then over 5000 people shortlisted for the 10 openings are required to pay N1,000 application fee each,  which would result to N5million in the coffers of the organization. Then I ask how can any sanity organization shortlist 5,000 people for 10 openings? Extorting money from the poor masses who need help?

     Another issue is massive youth under development in Enugu due to poverty in the state. 

-Poverty has found a way of clogging the development of youth in Enugu State. Poverty has caused the youths of the state to engage in so many mischievous and dreadful acts. Poverty in Enugu can also be a result of income inequality and political instability or corruption. To combat the massive under development in Enugu State the government should be able to establish proper education, skill acquisition, programs to eradicate idleness and so on.

    In conclusion, to help the youths become dependent and developed, the government should try to emulate some of the western culture which has made their youths a priority and has succeeded in establishing them by providing free education, free skill acquisition programs, free job opportunities, free food and so on. I believe that if our governments adopt these measures, our youths will definitely turn out to be great, productive and true leaders.

By Ifeoma.

Edited by: Nebo Obinna Collins

African Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship Program

The African Leaders of Tomorrow (ALT) Scholarship Program commemorates the late Nelson Mandela’s commitment to social justice and equity by supporting young African professionals to become leaders in public policy and administration. The ALT Scholarship Program will grant scholarships to young African women and men to pursue a Master’s degree in public administration, public policy or public finances. Scholarships will be awarded based on merit to young professionals from sub-Saharan Africa. The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) in collaboration with The Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) will implement the ALT Scholarship Program with the objective of contributing to a strong and effective public sector in sub-Saharan Africa.  Special consideration will be given to equitable representation across the continent and to the advancement of women leaders.
This program is undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFATD), and The MasterCard Foundation.
The ALT Scholarship Program has two components:

• An academic component where the recipient of the scholarship will complete a one to two year Master’s level program in public administration, public policy or public finance at a Canadian university;
• A professional development component where the recipient of the scholarship will complete a comprehensive professional development plan which will include the development of a case study focusing on their home country, as well as exposure to Canadian knowledge, innovation and best practices in public administration and policy through mentoring, webinars and networking events.

2016 Competition (for study programs starting in September 2016) is open from September 8, 2015 to November 2, 2015. Candidates who contact us after October 27, 2015 might not be able to apply.

The ALT Scholarship Program is managed by CBIE, in partnership with IPAC and in collaboration with AAPAM:

Register 

Secretary-General’s Message on the International Day of Youth

Emerging threats, violent extremism, shifting political conditions, economic turmoil and social transformations are combining to heighten the challenges facing the world’s young people. No one knows better than them the issues at stake or the best way to respond. That is why I am calling on young people to speak out and I am urging leaders to listen.

As the world changes with unprecedented speed, young people are proving to be invaluable partners who can advance meaningful solutions. Youth movements and student groups are challenging traditional power structures and advocating a new social contract between States and societies. Young leaders have contributed fresh ideas, taken proactive measures and mobilized through social media as never before.

I applaud the millions of young people who are protesting for rights and participation, addressing staggering levels of youth unemployment, raising their voices against injustice and advocating global action for people and the planet.

In this landmark year, as leaders prepare to adopt a bold new vision for sustainable development, the engagement of youth is more valuable than ever. At this critical moment in history, I call on young people to demand and foster the dramatic progress so urgently needed in our world.

Volunteerism is an ideal way to improve society and it is open to virtually everyone. Youth can also join forces with the United Nations as we move from forging the new sustainable development goals to implementing them. That spirit of action is embodied in the theme of this International Day: “Youth and Civic Engagement”. I stand with the world’s young people in calling for measures to secure human rights, economic progress, environmental stewardship and social inclusion.

This year marks the seventieth anniversary of the United Nations Charter and the twentieth anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth. In support of their aims, my Youth Envoy is helping to mobilize this largest generation of young people in history. As he says, youth engagement can help turn the world we want into the world we deserve. Let us all support young people in creating a future where our planet is protected and all people live in dignity.

Source: http://www.un.org/youthenvoy/2015/08/secretary-generals-message-on-the-international-day-of-youth/

Nigerian Youth Declaration Presented to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 2015 International Youth Day

PREAMBLE

Nigeria’s greatest asset lies in its huge productive workforce dominated by young people between the ages of 18 - 35. While young people are confronted with different development challenges that jeopardize the realization of sustainable development, the inherent youth bulge presents an opportunity to harness energy, resilience, innovation and creativity characteristic of youth and required to spur inclusive economic growth and democratic development.

The outcome of the 2015 general elections signifies a major leap in our democratic expedition and young people were at the forefront of the political mobilization and socialization that led to voter turnout and peace outcomes of the 2015 elections.

As a country regaining its relevance and prominence in the comity of nations following a democratic transition and institutionalization of a legitimate government, we are presented with an opportunity to harness our human and natural resources for economic growth and development. The new paradigm and enthusiasm of youth to play active roles in democratic governance presents a unique opportunity for the government to engage youth in enhancing development and livelihood of youth. The commitment of this administration to enhancing public accountability gives youth hope that once again we can build a country underpinned by the principles of equity, fairness, justice and rule of law.

METHODOLOGY

A three-pronged approach was adopted in developing the youth declaration. A desk review was conducted using statements, communiqués and resolutions of several conferences and roundtables hosted by youth organizations in Nigeria. Online reviews of policy documents on youth development were conducted. With the support of the International Republican Institute (IRI), the Federal Ministry of Youth Development partnered with civil society organizations like the Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth & Advancement (YIAGA), Youngstars Foundation and Mind the Gap Foundation to host a one day Pre-Summit Youth Consultation on August 11, 2015 in Abuja. The program brought over 130 youth leaders from youth organizations, political parties, religious and traditional institutions and development partners to deliberate on youth issues with a view to developing a youth agenda for the new administration.

PRIORITY YOUTH ISSUES

The following issues represent the priority aspects of youth development requiring government’s policy and programmatic intervention;

    I.Youth Unemployment

Unemployment remains a major challenge confronting young people in Nigeria. This exposes youths to all forms of vices like political thuggery, violence and criminality. The high rate of unemployment poses a development challenge that requires urgent attention. Several factors account for the increasing level of youth unemployment in Nigeria. They include; poor incentives for business startups, harsh business climate and poor infrastructure, limited vocational and entrepreneurship skills, lack of sustainability of government programs on youth unemployment, corruption and poor management of recruitment exercises etc. Following the rebasing of the country’s economy, Nigeria occupies the prime position of Africa’s largest economy. Ironically, 69% of our population live in abject poverty (NBS 2010)

To this end, we recommend as follows;

1. Diversify and Invest in viable sectors for increased youth employment in the informal sector like, agricultural, ICT, Education, Tourism and entertainment, Mining and Solid Minerals Sectors. According to the NBS 1^st Quarter 2015 job creation survey report, the informal sector remains the sector with the highest number jobs created.
2. Review and update the National Youth Employability plan to provide incentives and  seed funds for business startups and incubators. Access;
3. Improve social infrastructure like power and energy to reduce the cost of doing business in Nigeria. This will enhance industrialization, which has  potentials to create more jobs for the youths;
4. Provide social safety nets for unemployed youths. Such safety nets should instill the values of entrepreneurship and productivity in youths. This initiative  will develop the skill set and experience required for functional employment:
5. Adopt  an effective public private partnership model to promote investments,      innovation and incentives in the youth development sector. This may involve facilitating the creation and funding of youth business and hubs  across the country.
6. Create      a youth development database and platforms to ensure direct access to  information and resources on investment opportunities, national policies and youth empowerment programs

II. Youth Participation in decision-making

The participation of citizens in governance and democratic processes is an indicator of a country’s democratic development. It is therefore important that government at all levels must ensure inclusion in decision-making and governance. Youth marginalization deprives society the opportunity of harnessing the potentials of young people for political advancement and economic growth.

The National Youth Policy guarantees the right to participate in politics and reinforces the basic rights as enshrined in the constitution, and also itemizes the responsibilities expected of young people, which include patriotism and the protection of public property, among others. There is also a section on the obligations of government, which guarantee youth participation and inclusion in governance and gender equality. The right to participate in decision-making is also highlighted in the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, which provides that participation must be accessible, active, free and meaningful.

In enhancing youth participation, we recommend as follows;

1. Establishment of a Presidential Youth Forum as a policy and advisory think-tank on youth development. The Presidential Youth Forum will serve as a strategic platform for mainstreaming youth in governance and deepening intergenerational dialogue and political mentorship,
2. Young men and women between the stipulated youth age bracket of 18 – 35 should occupy all youth portfolios like Minister of Youth, Commissioners of Youth and Special Adviser on Youth and Students. Such appointees should be competent persons with proven integrity and impeccable character;
3. In furtherance of the National Youth Policy, 2009 and the African Youth Charter, ensure adequate youth representation on boards, technical committees of MDAs and Commissions and government delegation to international meetings on youth. This will avail youths the opportunity to actively contribute to policy formulation and implementation. In considering the appointment of youth, gender and disability should be considered.
4. Through an Act of parliament, establish and institutionalize an independent youth platform that will serve as a representative organization and voice for all Nigerian youths. The structure, leadership, and funding of the umbrella organization should be established by legislation.

III. Reform of Youth Development Programs

Over the last decade, Nigeria introduced numerous youth development programs aimed empowering young people with requisite skills and knowledge for active citizenship and sustainable livelihoods. These programs have recorded tremendous success. However, they’ve been plagued by some challenges ranging from poor funding, low public awareness, poor monitoring and evaluation and corruption.

To this end, recommend as follows;

1. Strengthen the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to ensure coordination of all youth development programs. This will streamline impact, enhance monitoring and evaluation and prevent against duplication of youth programs;
2. Retention of youth development programs with evidence based results and impact. For example; the National Youth Service Corps should be retained. However, the program curriculum should be reviewed in line with emerging trends of national service and leadership. Furthermore, the monthly allowance of NYSC corps should be increased in line with present economic realities.
3. Urgent review of the National Youth Policy, 2009 in line with present day challenges and realities as underscored by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Such a review should be conducted in partnership with youth;
4. The National Youth Development Centers should be redesigned to adopt a public-private partnership model where the private sector is mainstreamed in establishing and operating the centers nationwide;

IV. Financing Youth Development

1.   In line with the National Youth Policy, establish a National Youth Development Fund by legislation. The fund will be serviced and operated by a public-private partnership board. The mandate of the fund will encompass priority aspects of youth development. The fund if established will complement the statutory appropriation for youth development;

2.  Increased budgetary appropriation for youth development projects. Presently, 70 – 80% of the youth ministry budget is earmarked for the NYSC program, which covers less than 10% of the entire youth population.

3. The Federal government should leverage on the Bond Market by establishing a bond market fund where the proceeds are used to fund youth initiatives. In addition, government should provide tax rebate to private sector investing in youth development;

4. Strengthen the National Planning Commission to promote performance-based policies for youth development. In the same vein, the FG should introduce a National saving scheme with incentives for parents to save for their Children’s future investment activities.

V. Security and Accountability

The 1999 constitution (as amended) states in Section 14 (1) that the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be a state based on the principles of democracy and social justice. It also stipulates in Section 14 (2) (b) that that security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. Against this backdrop, it is a mandate of the Nigerian State to promote social justice, equality and protect lives and properties of Nigerians.

Insecurity and violence pervade the polity especially in the northeastern states of Adamawa, Bornu and Yobe states. These states also have high records of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who are a subject of humanitarian concern. Lack of public accountability, poverty, ethnic and religious chauvinism, unemployment and youth marginalization are central to the growing insurgency and violence. However, opportunities exist in the areas of peace education, civic education, skills training and long term constitutional amendment processes to improve accountability and security.

To this end, we make the following recommendations;

1. Government   should fast-track the implementation of mechanisms for the integration of members of the civilian joint task force and repentant boko haram members in the North- east and provide trauma counselling for members of communities affected by violence in the North – East.

2. Government  should ensure the Safe School Initiative in Nigeria is implemented to the latter. The Federal Government should collaborate with youth organizations to monitor the implementation of the initiative at the state level. School curricular should be reviewed to include teachings on security and  accountability

3. There is need for government to consolidate citizens’ biometric data in a national identification system that will be assessable to relevant government institutions;

4. Government should commit to openness and transparency in all its processes at all levels of  government;

5. The presentation of Whistle blower bill to the National Assembly for passage so young whistle blowers can be adequately protected and rewarded;

6. Ensure conclusive prosecution of corruption cases to reduce the level of impunity and corruption;

OUR COMMITMENT / PLEDGE AS YOUTH

I.                        Defend our constitutional democracy, respect the rule of law and perform our civic duties as enshrined the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;

II.                        Support all government’s efforts aimed at enhancing fiscal governance, accountability and transparency in the public and private sector;

III.                        Commit our energy, creativity, resilience and demography for national growth and development;

IV.                        Remain active citizens through effective engagement with public institutions and government;

V.                        Build platforms at all levels that promotes civic education, national unity and peaceful co-existence through community mobilization and outreach;

VI.                        Hold all representatives of youth in governance accountable to the principles of equitable representation, integrity and rule of law;Bottom of Form

Source: http://www.yiaga.org/en/36-programmes/youth/251-nigerian-youth-declaration-presented-to-the-president-of-the-federal-republic-of-nigeria-president-muhammad-buhari-on-the.html