General News
Navigating Away from the Abyss in the 2023 Nigerian Presidential Election
By Austin Okere
Reading about the post-2023 Presidential election discourse in Nigeria is exasperating. The politicians have successfully steered the discourse away from logical discussions about our country’s development to emotional and divisive topics such as tribalism and religion. This tactic has been used to maintain the status quo by dividing the population.
People are willing to overlook the truth and blindly follow their tribal or religious affiliations. We have all been manipulated and will continue to be until we can break free from this narrow-minded way of viewing national issues.
History has taught us that following the paths of ethnic and religious bigotry leads us to no viable destination. The Rwandan Genocide serves as an example of the tragic outcome of such paths.
The genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, also known as the Rwandan genocide, occurred during the Rwandan Civil War between April 7 and July 15, 1994. Over the course of about 100 days, armed Hutu militias killed members of the Tutsi minority ethnic group, as well as some moderate Hutu and Twa. The most widely accepted scholarly estimates put the number of Tutsi deaths between 500,000 to 662,000.
The Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), a rebel group mainly composed of Tutsi refugees, invaded northern Rwanda from Uganda in 1990, sparking the Rwandan Civil War. The conflict continued for three years without either side gaining a decisive advantage. In an attempt to end the war peacefully, Hutu President Juvénal Habyarimana signed the Arusha Accords with the RPF on August 4, 1993. However, Habyarimana’s assassination on April 6, 1994, created a power vacuum and ended the peace accords. Genocidal killings began the following day, initiated by majority Hutu soldiers, police, and militia who murdered key Tutsi and moderate Hutu military and political leaders. Despite the worldwide shock caused by the scale and brutality of the genocide, no country intervened to forcefully stop the killings.
I cite this example because of my belief that if we continue down the path of ratcheting up the caustic rhetoric that have pervaded the polity in the recent weeks, a similar outcome may not be far-fetched.
On the occasion of the one-year anniversary in office of Prof. Charles Soludo, Anambra State Governor, on March 19, 2023, Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo condemned the anti-Igbo sentiments in Nigeria, which he called “Igbophobia”. In this context, It is important to recognize that the following constructs should not be viewed as interchangeable: Peter Obi, the Labour Party, the Obidient Movement, and the Igbo.
It seems that some individuals are mistakenly perceiving them to be one and the same, but this cannot be further from the truth. Here are the reasons why:
- Although Peter Obi is the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, the party is not defined by any single individual. It is a diverse party with members from different tribes such as Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and others who all share the party’s goal of actualising a mandate which they believe has been denied them by a flawed electoral process through legal means. It is unfair to single out the Igbo people in this regard.
- The Labour Party includes people who are not Igbo, just as there are Igbo individuals in other parties besides the Labour Party. Die-hard Igbo supporters can be found in the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and other parties, just as die-hard supporters of other tribes can be found in the Labour Party. The leadership of the Labour Party cuts across the diverse tribes in Nigeria.
- The Obidient Movement includes individuals who are not necessarily associated with the Labour Party, such as Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, a PDP Stalwart, Aisha Yusufu, the renowned activist, and many others. This movement represents the desire for change in Nigeria and a departure from the status quo that has led the country to this point. The majority of the youth population identifies with this movement, and it includes people from all tribes. During the #EndSARS protests, they spoke out for better governance and were urged to become more engaged in the political process, which they have done.
- The Igbo people are an integral part of Nigeria, just like the Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani and other tribes. They transcend Peter Obi, the Labour Party, and the Obidient Movement. Failing to recognize these distinctions could lead to a dangerous blanket hatred against the Igbo people.
There are good and bad people in every tribe. Removing all Igbo individuals from Nigeria would not solve the country’s problems, just as removing individuals from any other tribe would not either. The current atmosphere of suspicion and fear between tribes is concerning. According to Saint Thomas Aquinas “Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take over us, it drives compassion right out of our hearts.”
It is not uncommon for election results to be disputed if there is a perception that the process was unfair. In such cases, the electoral laws provide for aggrieved parties to seek redress through the electoral tribunals and the courts.
We can draw valuable lessons from the examples of Kenya and Ghana. In Kenya, the Supreme Court nullified the results of the presidential election, while in Ghana, the Supreme Court upheld the results. These two cases demonstrate how electoral disputes can be resolved through legal means, and how important it is to have independent and impartial courts that can provide oversight and ensure the integrity of the electoral process. It is important for all parties to respect the rule of law and abide by the decisions of the courts, regardless of whether they agree with the outcome.Top of Form
On September 1, 2017, the BBC news site reported that the Supreme Court of Kenya cancelled the country’s presidential election held on August 8, 2017, citing irregularities, and ordered a new election to be held within 60 days.
The incumbent president, Uhuru Kenyatta, was declared the winner by a margin of 1.4 million votes by the election commission. However, the opposition leader, Raila Odinga, accused the commission of corruption and demanded resignations and prosecutions. President Kenyatta respected the court’s decision but called the judges “crooks.”
The annulment of an African presidential election as a result of an opposition court challenge appeared to be unprecedented. The Chief Justice, David Maraga, said that the election was not conducted according to the constitution and declared it “invalid, null and void.” The vote had raised fears of major political violence, as happened after a disputed poll in 2007. President Kenyatta called for calm and respect for the rule of law.
In contrast to Kenya, Ghana’s Supreme Court on March 04, 2021 upheld the victory of President Nana Akufo-Addo in the December 7, 2020 presidential election. Despite allegations of irregularities made by his opponent, former President John Mahama, the court found no merit in his claims and ruled in favour of Akufo-Addo, who had received 51.59% of the vote to Mahama’s 47.37%. Although Mahama accepted the court’s decision, he expressed disagreement with the trial process and ruling. Notably, this was only the second time that a Ghanaian presidential election had been formally contested by the losing candidate, with the previous case in 2012 involving a challenge by Akufo-Addo against then-incumbent Mahama’s victory.
From the above examples, it is important for any democracy to have a transparent and fair electoral process that is free from irregularities and malpractices. In cases where disputes arise, it is important to have an independent judiciary that can adjudicate such disputes based on the law and the evidence presented, rather than on political considerations.
Ultimately, the success of any democracy depends on the ability of its citizens and leaders to work together in good faith towards a common goal. This requires a commitment to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
We need to pull back from the abyss. Every Nigerian should have the freedom to aspire to their greatest aspirations and the pursuit of happiness in any part of the country where they choose to live, as enshrined in our constitution. It is crucial to focus on the values that unite us as Nigerians, such as our shared history, culture, and aspirations for a better future.
This can help to build a sense of national unity and strengthen our democracy. It is also important to address the root causes of the current tensions and conflicts in the country, such as social inequality, economic hardship, and political exclusion. By addressing these issues, we can build a more just and equitable society that works for the benefit of all Nigerians.
The opinions expressed here are solely my own and do not represent any institution to which I have direct or indirect ties.
Austin Okere is a thought leader, and business mentor. Currently an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Columbia Business School, New York, Austin has also facilitated at the United States International University in Kenya and has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the Global Business School Network in Washington in recognition of his contribution to the development of business education and knowledge transfer in Africa.
General News
Uche Uzoebo, SANEF CEO Makes Case for More Financial Inclusion Strategies Targeting Women
Leveraging digital infrastructure is key to accelerating financial inclusion, especially through a multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, fintechs, telecoms, regulators and even the customers.
According to the World Bank report, a significant portion of the global adult population remains unbanked.
Specifically, 27% of adults globally are considered unbanked, and an additional 50% are underbanked, defined as lacking a credit card, , according to Lucidity Insights.
By investing in awareness, robust digital ID systems, interoperable payment rails, and inclusive policy frameworks, stakeholders can expand access to financial services, particularly in underserved regions, and reduce the global unbanked population significantly.
Stakeholders who gathered at the Regtech Conference 2025 discussed these strategies and more, especially facilitating cross-border payments and investment opportunities across Africa.
The event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Uche Uzoebo, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF) Limited.
The panel discussion themed, “From Borders to Bridges: Leveraging Digital Infrastructure to Drive Financial Inclusion through a Multi-Stakeholder Approach”, brought together diverse voices across banking, fintech, policy, and government to explore how digital infrastructure can be annexed to drive financial inclusion.
Uzoebo highlighted how women often face unique challenges in accessing financial services coupled with limited digital literacy and cultural barriers.
She engaged the panelists to discuss targeted interventions aimed at promoting gender inclusivity in the financial sector and effective financial education programs that empower individuals to utilize digital financial services.
Jacqueline Mpare, Head of Agency Banking, Ecobank Group, highlighted how her organization had established a women-focused initiative to provide support to businesses targeted at women and those with women as part of the leadership by providing them with access to finance and non-financial support.
Isa Aliyushata, Regional Advisor, Africa, Corum Group Limited, stressed the need to inculcate financial literacy into the education curriculum to ensure everyone is exposed to the knowledge of financial literacy from a young age.
The panelists include Ajibade Laolu-Adewale, Chief Partnership & Ecosystems Officer, Wema Bank; Gerald Munyaradzi Nyakwawa, Head of Digital Channels, MoneyMart Finance (Private) Limited, Zimbabwe; Dr. Henry Clarke Kisembo, Group Global Lead and Executive Chairman, Development Associates Link International (DALI); Jacqueline Mpare, Head of Agency Banking, Ecobank Group; Jean Jacques Kajuga, Chief Operations Officer, RSwitch Rwanda; and Isa Aliyushata, Regional Advisor, Africa, Corum Group Limited.
The panelists emphasized collaboration, leading by example, speed and legislative alignment, a unified infrastructure payment system, and collaboration between national and regional switchers to allow a low-cost cross-border payment as key to ensuring financial inclusion.
Meanwhile, her organization, Shared Agency Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF), was honored with the title of 2025 Financial Literacy Champion at the RegTech Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights SANEF’s steadfast commitment to promoting financial literacy and enhancing financial inclusion across Nigeria. Through strategic partnerships, the expansion of agent networks nationwide, and impactful educational programs, SANEF continues to equip millions with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions.
General News
Hydrogen, Lagos State Touch Thousands of Business Owners with “Healthy Heart, Healthy Business” Outreach
As part of its continued effort to support the growth and sustainability of Nigerian enterprises, Hydrogen Payment Services Company Limited joined forces with Ikeja Local Government Area and the Office of the Medical Officer of Health to deliver the impactful “Healthy Heart, Healthy Business” outreach on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Ikeja Local Government Secretariat.
The initiative successfully engaged a wide range of business owners through a combination of in-person participation and extensive digital awareness campaigns.
Participants benefited from a comprehensive range of free medical screenings, including blood pressure checks, ECGs, malaria and typhoid testing, urinalysis, packed cell volume (PCV), blood sugar monitoring, and more, highlighting the critical connection between good health and business longevity.
Kemi Okusanya, CEO of Hydrogen, commented on the initiative, affirming Hydrogen’s passion for the growth of businesses.
“At Hydrogen, we are deeply committed to the success of Nigerian businesses. As a payment solutions provider, we recognise that healthy entrepreneurs build stronger, more resilient enterprises. This outreach exemplifies our belief in supporting entrepreneurs beyond just payments.”
Demonstrating this responsibility, Hydrogen donated Sphygmomanometers and Glucometers to indigent and high-risk attendees unable to afford this essential health monitoring devices, empowering them to manage their health beyond the outreach.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have become increasingly important in driving sustainable development across various sectors.
By leveraging the unique strengths of both government institutions and private enterprises, PPPs enable more efficient delivery of services, innovation, and expanded reach. These collaborations foster shared responsibility and resource pooling, making it possible to tackle complex challenges that neither sector could effectively address alone.
Dr. Tawak O.F., Medical Officer of Health for Ikeja, spoke on this, saying, “This partnership with Hydrogen Payment Services Company Limited exemplifies the power of effective public-private collaboration in reaching the heart of our business community.”
“Entrepreneurs often overlook their health while striving for success, but initiatives like this remind us all that good health is an essential part of wealth. We commend Hydrogen for their commitment to not just powering payments, but also powering healthier, more resilient businesses through impactful community engagement,” She added.
Mary, one of the beneficiaries and a merchant in ‘Computer Village’, expressed her gratitude, saying that, “Most of us don’t think about regular hospital checkups. Mainly, because the cost is too high and some things now are not covered by insurance. Today, Hydrogen and Lagos State have brought doctors for free to our doorstep, and we are very grateful.”
Hydrogen’s full team presence at the event reaffirmed the company’s dedication to forging genuine relationships and standing firmly with the business communities it serves.
General News
Tripoint Travels Hosts Pre-GEC Brunch for Nigerian Delegates Ahead of Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2025
In a vibrant celebration of national pride, global relevance, and entrepreneurial drive, Tripoint Travels, the official logistics partner of GEN Nigeria hosted an exclusive pre-congress brunch for Nigerian delegates attending the upcoming Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) 2025.
Held at Tripoint’s Lagos headquarters, the event brought together top entrepreneurs, investors, ecosystem leaders, and government officials, including Dr. Peter Bamkole, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Pan Atlantic University; Dr. Olawale Anifowose, Managing Director of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress Nigeria (GEN Nigeria); Dr. Babangida Ruma from The Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), Mrs. Uche Uzoebo, CEO of the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF) Limited; Actor and influencer Mr. Umar Gombe; along with other distinguished guests and representatives from various government bodies, all in anticipation of their journey to Indianapolis, Indiana this June.
The Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC), Organized annually by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), the GEC brings together more than 5,000 participants from over 200 countries, including Entrepreneurs, Investors, Policymakers, Researchers, & Support organizations to build stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems worldwide. Since its inception in 2009, the GEC has become a cornerstone of international collaboration and entrepreneurial innovation.
This year’s GEC, hosted in partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), marks the Congress’ return to the United States after 16 years. Held in Indianapolis from June 2–5, 2025, the event aims to spotlight Indiana’s pro-growth business climate while strengthening global ties that promote sustainable economic development and innovation.
The brunch allowed the delegation to connect in an intimate and engaging setting, sharing expectations, ideas, and goals ahead of one of the most impactful convening in the global entrepreneurship calendar. Designed to build camaraderie, align visions, and foster a sense of shared identity, the event emphasized the importance of collaboration as Nigerian representatives prepare to take the global stage.
“The Global Entrepreneurship Congress is not just a conference, it’s a platform that is deliberate about global innovation meeting local action, said Mrs. Shuhda Muhammed, Founder of Tripoint Travels. We wanted to set the tone for our delegates, to ensure that they feel connected to this year’s theme – The Bold Change the World, as well as foster the necessary collaborations to make that happen at the local and global stage.. As a company rooted in both logistics and empowerment, we are proud to play a role in making their journey seamless and meaningful.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Olawale Anifowose, Managing Director of the Global Entrepreneurship Network Nigeria (GEN Nigeria), emphasized the significance of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) as both a meeting point and a growth platform, where Nigerian entrepreneurs engage with global ecosystems to connect, learn, and thrive. He noted that Nigeria’s presence at the GEC is not just symbolic but essential, reflecting the country’s growing influence in the global entrepreneurial landscape. Dr. Anifowose also commended Tripoint Travels for their pivotal role as a trusted partner in mobilizing Nigeria’s brightest talent and making the journey to GEC 2025 a reality.
GEN Nigeria has emerged as a critical force in supporting entrepreneurship at the grassroots and policy level, and with a Partner as Tripoint Travels, its expansive network and initiatives, continues to actively shape the country’s innovation landscape, championing inclusive growth, and equipping thousands of Entrepreneurs with the tools, exposure, and networks needed to succeed in both local and international markets.
With delegates selected for their contributions to Ecosystem building and Entrepreneurship, Nigeria’s representation at The GEC 2025 would reflect the country’s diversity, resilience, entrepreneurship spirit and creative potential. The presence of Founders and Innovators like Mr Rotimi Awofisibe – MD, VFD bank, one of the officially invited participants, is testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in the Global Entrepreneurship arena.
“We’re proud to be a longstanding partner of GEN Nigeria, supporting the Entrepreneurs shaping Nigeria’s future. Attending the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) is about learning, contributing, and returning with a renewed, broader vision. It’s through committed partnerships like ours that such visions become reality,” said Mrs. Muhammed.
More than just a travel management company, Tripoint Travels is a trusted enabler of dreams, mobility, and opportunity. As GEN Nigeria’s official travel partner for GEC 2025, Tripoint is overseeing every aspect of the delegation’s journey, from visa coordination and flight logistics to accommodation and ground transportation, ensuring a seamless and empowering experience.
Tripoint Travels also extends its commitment to ecosystem development through Tripoint Academy, its nonprofit arm that supports early-stage entrepreneurs with training, mentoring, and access to local and global opportunities. Tripoint’s partnership with GEN Nigeria reflects its broader mission: to use travel as a tool for empowerment, education, and national development.
“Every single ticket we issue is a bridge, a bridge between where someone is now, and where they’re meant to be,” added Mrs. Muhammed. “We don’t just book travel. We open up the world for Nigerian entrepreneurs.”
The highlight of the Pre-Congress brunch was the piece of art done by all the delegates present at the event. The interactive art was introduced as an inclusive way to showcase the multiculturalism and pivotal position of the Nigerian business mind, and so the essence of the Nigerian delegation materialised through the painting. The art work will be exhibited and gifted at a special event during the Congress.
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