These headlines from Nigerian newspapers highlight urgent issues that demand more than just discussion. 

1. ‘Federal government to crash food prices through investments – Minister’– Daily Trust

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to lowering the cost of food commodities through massive investments in agricultural production.

Our Take: This is a reminder to the government that hungry Nigerians cannot eat speeches! If the government is serious about crashing food prices, let’s see action. Until then, promises won’t fill empty plates!

2. Telcos tariff hike: Reps demand reversal as new pricing begins – Punch

Nigerian telecommunications operators have started implementing the long-awaited 50 percent tariff hike following regulatory approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as lawmakers moved to halt the rollout, citing economic hardship.

Our Take: At this rate, even making a ‘missed call’ might become a luxury! The NCC and Minister Bosun Tijani must hit pause on this tariff hike, because Nigerians are already juggling fuel costs, inflation, and the ever-rising price of garri. Instead of squeezing citizens further, we call for innovative policies that cut operational costs for telcos without draining the pockets of everyday Nigerians.

3. ‘2024 CPI: Nigeria ranks 140th out of 180 countries – TI’ – Vanguard

The 2024 Corruption Perception Index, CPI, released by Transparency International (TI), Tuesday, indicated that Nigeria ranked 140th out of 180 countries.

Our Take: Nigeria’s slight CPI improvement is like adding one drop of clean water to a murky well – hardly drinkable! While high-profile prosecutions and asset recoveries are commendable, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) must go beyond show trials to ensure convictions that deter looters, not just entertain citizens.