Favouritism, Bias, and Appointment of Unqualified Experts: A Main Problem Affecting the Public Sector in Nigeria.

Favouritism, Bias, and Appointment of Unqualified Experts: A Main Problem Affecting the Public Sector in Nigeria.

By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi

In Nigeria, as in many countries, the efficient functioning of the public sector is crucial for the nation's progress and development. However, a significant obstacle that has hindered the growth of the Nigerian public sector is the pervasive issues of favouritism, bias, and the appointment of unqualified experts. These problems have serious repercussions, ranging from inefficiency and corruption to a lack of public trust in government institutions.

Favouritism refers to the practice of showing unfair preference towards individuals based on personal relationships or affiliations, rather than on merit or qualifications. Bias, on the other hand, involves a preconceived inclination or prejudice that affects decisions and actions. Both these issues erode the foundation of a merit-based system, which is essential for the public sector's optimal performance.

Appointing unqualified experts has become a norm in Nigeria's public sector due to various factors such as political considerations, lack of transparency, and inadequate oversight mechanisms. This phenomenon not only undermines the quality of services delivered but also discourages qualified individuals from pursuing public sector careers. The consequences of placing unqualified experts in critical roles can be disastrous, leading to poor policy formulation, ineffective implementation, and wastage of resources.

The negative consequences of favouritism, bias, and the appointment of unqualified experts are manifold:

Inefficiency: When individuals are appointed based on favouritism rather than merit, the public sector loses out on the potential contributions of capable experts. This leads to suboptimal performance and the inefficient allocation of resources.

Corruption: Favouritism often creates an environment conducive to corruption. Nepotism and cronyism can result in the misappropriation of funds, kickbacks, and unethical practices.

Public Trust: The appointment of unqualified individuals erodes public trust in government institutions. When citizens perceive that decisions are made based on personal connections rather than public welfare, their confidence in the government diminishes.

Stifled Innovation: Incompetent individuals in key positions stifle innovation and progress. Vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffer as a result.

Several factors contribute to the persistence of favouritism, bias, and the appointment of unqualified experts in Nigeria's public sector:

Political Interference: Political leaders often prioritize loyalty over competence when making appointments, leading to the placement of unqualified individuals in crucial roles.

Weak Governance Systems: Inadequate checks and balances, along with a lack of transparency in the appointment process, facilitate the entry of unqualified individuals into public sector positions.

Lack of Meritocracy: The absence of a merit-based culture within the public sector discourages talented individuals from seeking government positions, further perpetuating the problem.

Addressing the issue of favouritism, bias, and the appointment of unqualified experts in Nigeria's public sector requires a multi-faceted approach:

Strengthening Oversight: Establish independent bodies responsible for overseeing appointments, ensuring they are based on merit and relevant qualifications rather than personal connections.

Transparency: Implement transparent and accountable recruitment processes that are accessible to the public. This helps build trust and reduces the potential for manipulation.

Merit-Based Culture: Promote a culture of meritocracy through awareness campaigns, training programs, and incentives that reward expertise and competence.

Political Will: Political leaders must prioritize the nation's welfare over personal interests and refrain from placing unqualified individuals in key positions for political gains.

In Conclusion, Favouritism, bias, and the appointment of unqualified experts are significant challenges that impede the growth and progress of Nigeria's public sector. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders – government, civil society, and citizens. By prioritizing merit, transparency, and accountability, Nigeria can work towards a more efficient, effective, and trustworthy public sector that serves the needs of its people and drives national development.

Nigerians Must Smile Under Renewed - Hope Agenda: President Bola Tinubu Advised to Keep to Promises.

Nigerians Must Smile Under Renewed - Hope Agenda:  President Bola Tinubu Advised to Keep to Promises.

Omoluabi Team Alliance otherwise known as Egbe Omoluabi from the southwest has issued a press statement advising  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the need to expedite actions on how to restore smiles back to the faces of Nigerians. The group through its' Director of Media and Publicity, Omolaubi Akinwunmi Olamide send signals to the President and Commander-in- chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the need to give urgent attention to the emotional and psychological traumas that now reflects in the faces of Nigerians. 

In Pic: His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President, Commander-In-Chief of The Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

The people are in total emotional disharmony arising from serious economic challenges, high price of food items and other household commodities, outrageous hike in the price of PMS, hike in the prices of transport fare, house rents, gas, school fees and many more unmentioned. It has become expedient that Mr. President give citizens welfare an urgent attention. As a socio- cultural group noted for the brand and character we represent at all times, it has become our mandate to put government at all levels on their toes, speak truth to power, make constructive criticism that is expected of us as responsible citizens who wants the best for our people irrespective of political affiliations. We have worked hard as a group beginning from the grassroot and across the entire southwest with members canvassing voters for the victory of the incumbent President, which eventually became a huge success under the renewed hope agenda. It is however expected that we hold Mr. President responsible for all his electoral promises which must be delivered satisfactorily. 

Omoluabi Team Alliance under the leadership of the National Convener, Omoluabi Jayeola Afolabi however appeal to Mr. President to give the right approach that is urgent enough in ameliorating the sufferness and pains of Nigerians. Appoint special aides that will provide first hand information that are reliable and genuine enough on the welfare of Nigerians rather than depend on pseudo information from aides who will only misinform the President on realities that are obtainable.

The group also deem it fit to advise PBAT on measures that can be taken on distribution of pallatiaves to the public. Pallatives should be channelled through traditional rulers and worship centers. Every community either micro or macro are  under the watch of a traditional ruler who is the closest to the people and identify the various households and clans in these communities. 

 The worship centres should also be spotted as another channel through which these palliatives can be distributed to the people. We must remember that the churches and mosques were also hot spots during the campaign periods in the last general election held this year. So we expect that we channel benefits to Nigerians through the worship centres as against passing these benefits to the people through political parties or party lines as it may end as an effort in futility. 

We by this pubic statement appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend to the yearning of Nigerians by doing the needful using the right approach as a democrat and father of the nation.

The renewed- hope agenda slogan you propagated in the last Presidential election must bring sincere relief to Nigerians unabated.

Our ideology strongly believes in equity, justice and fairness. We will always  stand to see the dividends of democracy delivered to Nigerians unhindered.

✍🏿✍🏿✍🏿✍🏿🇳🇬🇳🇬✍🏿✍🏿🇳🇬

 

 E- Signed:

 Omoluabi Akinwunmi Olamide

 Director of Media and Publicity Secretary. 

 For: The National Convener

 Omoluabi Jayeola, Afolabi.

 08063563668

 29/8/2023

Nigerian flag designer, Taiwo Akinkunmi, dies at 87.

Nigerian flag designer, Taiwo Akinkunmi, dies at 87.

In Pic: Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi.

The designer of the Nigerian Flag, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, has died at the age of 87

His son, Akinkunmi Akinwumi Samuel, announced his demise via his Facebook page on Wednesday.

In Pic: Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi.

He wrote, “Life is indeed transient; I can say boldly you live a life with a landmark. Continue to rest on, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R) Great Man has gone.”

Akinkunmi was awarded 100 pounds by the government when his design was selected as the Nigerian flag.

He has also been honoured with the Order of Federal Republic award by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Military Junta Takes Control of Gabon, Dissolves Democratic Government and Implements Sweeping Changes.

Military Junta Takes Control of Gabon, Dissolves Democratic Government and Implements Sweeping Changes.

In a shocking turn of events, a military junta has seized power in Gabon, overthrowing the democratic government led by President Ali Bongo. The coup, led by senior Gabonese military officers, was announced on national television in the early hours of Wednesday.

The coup leaders wasted no time in asserting their authority, as they declared the cancellation of the results of the recent presidential election, in which President Ali Bongo had been declared the winner. The electoral commission's announcement had sparked controversy, with the opposition alleging fraud in the election process.

In a dramatic display, twelve soldiers appeared on television to proclaim the dissolution of "all the institutions of the republic." The military officers, presenting themselves as representatives of the Security and Defence forces, acted under the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI).

Simultaneously, reports of gunfire emerged in the capital city, Libreville, adding an air of tension to the unfolding situation.

In Pic: President Ali Bongo.

The junta wasted no time in asserting control, taking several sweeping measures. These include the closure of all borders until further notice, dissolution of the Cabinet, Senate, and National Assembly, as well as the dismantling of the Constitutional Court, Economic, Social and Environmental Council, and the Gabonese Elections Centre.

President Ali Bongo, whose family had maintained a firm grip on power for over five decades, now faces an uncertain future. The takeover marks a dramatic shift in Gabonese politics and raises concerns about the country's stability and democratic institutions.

As the nation holds its breath in the wake of this sudden power transition, the international community watches closely, weighing in on the legitimacy of the military junta's actions and the potential consequences for the region.

Ondo's Oluwafemi Jackson Clinches 86kg Men's Freestyle Championship at Gov. Diri National Wrestling.

Ondo's Oluwafemi Jackson Clinches 86kg Men's Freestyle Championship at Gov. Diri National Wrestling.

In Pic: Oluwafemi Jackson.

In a thrilling showdown at the 2nd Governor Diri National Wrestling Classics held in Yenegoa, Bayelsa State, Oluwafemi Jackson of Ondo state emerged victorious as he defeated reigning champion Harrison Isreal from Bayelsa State in the men's 86kg weight class freestyle category. The much-anticipated match ended with Jackson securing a close victory, earning 6 points to Isreal's 4.

Jackson's triumph marked his ascent to the coveted title of 86kg Men's Freestyle Champion, dethroning his opponent who had previously held the crown. Jackson's path to victory was impressive, having showcased exceptional skills and technique throughout the tournament, including matches where he dominated his adversaries with technical superiority.

The 2nd edition of the Governor Diri National Wrestling Classics, a prestigious national championship event, spanned from August 4th to 10th, 2023. The competition saw wrestlers from various states and clubs across Nigeria engaging in fierce battles on the mat.

Champion Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, praised the outstanding performance of the nation's wrestlers during the tournament. Igali expressed his optimism about Nigeria's wrestling prospects on the global stage, citing the high level of competitiveness displayed by participants.

Igali emphasized the bright future of wrestling, highlighting the increased intensity and competitiveness of the 2nd Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics. He anticipated more classic matches as esteemed wrestlers, including world medalists, Olympic medalists, Commonwealth champions, and African champions, awaited their turn to showcase their prowess.

In a surprising turn of events, Team Bayelsa emerged as the overall best-performing team, securing 5 Gold, 6 Silver, and 3 Bronze medals. The team's outstanding performance demonstrated their dedication and prowess in the sport.

The primary objective of the competition was to select Nigeria's representative for the upcoming world championship in Serbia. This championship holds special significance as it serves as the first Olympic Qualifier tournament. Notably, those who secure a spot among the top 4 in the world championship will earn an automatic ticket to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

As the dust settles on the 2nd Governor Diri National Wrestling Classics, Oluwafemi Jackson's victory stands as a testament to his skill, determination, and resilience in the face of tough competition. With aspirations to shine on the international stage, Nigeria's wrestling community remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence.

💥BREAKING: Another Coup in Gabon.

💥BREAKING: Another Coup in Gabon.

Army officers have appeared on national television in Gabon to say they have taken power.

They said they were annulling the results of Saturday's election, in which President Ali Bongo was declared the winner.

The electoral commission said Mr. Bongo had won just under two-thirds of the votes in an election the opposition argued was fraudulent.

His overthrow would end his family's 53-year hold on power in Gabon.

Twelve soldiers appeared on television announcing they were cancelling the results of the election and dissolving "all the institutions of the republic"

Onigede's 64th Year on the Throne: Igede Youths Praise Ekiti Governor, Vow Unwavering Support.

Onigede's 64th Year on the Throne: Igede Youths Praise Ekiti Governor, Vow Unwavering Support.

....remain the longest reigning monarch in Nigeria.

His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II Onigede of Igede Ekiti.

The jubilation in Igede-Ekiti was palpable as the community embarked on festivities marking the 90th birthday and 64th year on the throne of the esteemed Onigede, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II. Amidst the celebrations, the local youth population seized the opportunity to express their appreciation for the reign of the revered Yoruba monarch. Notably, Mr. Olufemi Adebayo and Comr. Rasheed Adewumi lauded the unceasing support of Governor Mr. Biodun Oyebanji and pledged their unwavering allegiance to his administration.

Photographs capturing Igede-Ekiti youths rallying support for their king in a group.

Mr. Olufemi Adebayo, a prominent youth leader, hailed the governor's contributions to Igede-Ekiti, particularly acknowledging the ongoing Ado-Ekiti to Itawure road project. "I express profound gratitude to the previous Ekiti State government for initiating the road project that traverses Igede-Ekiti," Mr. Adebayo remarked. He fervently implored Governor Oyebanji to continue the road project and consider the vital road connecting Igede-Ekiti to Iworoko Ekiti, emphasizing its significance in linking the town to Ekiti State University—an initiative destined to invigorate the local economy.

Furthermore, Mr. Adebayo articulated the pivotal role of the "Elemi River," emphasizing its connectivity to other prominent rivers in Yoruba land. He appealed for the governor's intervention in dredging the river to establish a thriving tourist center, thereby enhancing the state's economic development and prestige.

Responding to the appeals and aspirations of the community, the Onigede, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, voiced his plea for the establishment of a technical college. This institution, he emphasized, would empower the youth with valuable skills, knowledge, and comprehension—equipping them for a promising future and augmenting the state's economic fabric. The monarch also articulated his desire for improvements to the internal road network of Igede-Ekiti, envisioning that enhanced infrastructure would not only elevate the town's aesthetic allure but also introduce its magnificence to the global stage.

His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, the Onigede of Igede Ekiti, reflected on the history of Igede as he stated, "Before the era of Christianity, Igede Ekiti had served as the ancestral home to the legendary Osun, Elemi pond, and various other historical sites that hold relevance to the community's origins. According to the oral tradition passed down from one generation to the next, the well-known Osun Osogbo actually departed from Igede due to a disagreement with her siblings and settled in Osogbo, which is in the present-day Osun State."

His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II Onigede of Igede Ekiti.

Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II emphasized the remarkable potential that Igede holds for Nigeria's tourism industry if its resources are properly harnessed. He continued, "When the people of Igede left Ile-Ife, they consulted the oracle to determine the ideal location for settlement. Their oracle identified Oke Esu as their destined home. Settling there, they lived in harmony until the passing of their father and king, Ake."

"Following Ake's demise, his sixteen offspring found themselves in a predicament, unable to reach an agreement on the succession of their father's throne. This discord resulted in chaos, causing their unity to crumble," Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II recounted. "In the end, they sought solace in various elements, including rivers and ponds. Ibaja became part of the earth, while Orunro, Elemi, Ogbese, and Osun transformed into water," he elucidated.

As the 90th birthday celebrations and 64th year on the throne of Onigede continue to resonate throughout Igede-Ekiti, the resounding unity and shared aspirations of the community, along with the visionary support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, stand poised to usher in a new era of prosperity and advancement for this ancient city.