From the rising debt ceiling to unjust estimated metering, top stories in today’s Nigerian newspapers paint a picture of the challenges citizens face daily.
1. ‘Metering gap: Over seven million on estimated billing despite N1.5trillion intervention, free supply’ – The Guardian
The federal government and its international lenders have managed to pump a jaw-dropping N1.5 trillion into the electricity sector, with one glaring omission: actual meters for Nigerians. While the government pats itself on the back for its ‘efforts’, millions of Nigerians are left to battle estimated billing syndrome.
Our Take: The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, needs to urgently pull the plug on estimated billing and the shadowy dealings that keep Nigerians in the dark. Nigerians deserve better. After all, N1.5 trillion could buy a lot of meters, or at least some dignity in our electricity sector.
2. ‘Nigeria’s public debt hits N142trillion as borrowing rises’ – Punch
Nigeria’s total public debt ballooned to a staggering N142.3 trillion as of September 30, 2024, a leap of 5.97 percent (N8.02 trillion) in just three months. While our leaders continue to play economic hide-and-seek, this financial mountain is not just a number. It is a direct threat to the dreams of every Nigerian.
Our Take: President Bola Tinubu’s administration must prioritise responsible borrowing and spending. They should say no to reckless loans for vanity projects.
3. ‘Residents scoop oil as another tanker falls in Niger’ – Premium Times
Two days after a catastrophic explosion killed scores of Nigerians following a tanker accident in Niger State, yet another tanker conveying groundnut oil decided to showcase its acrobatics in Bida town. Thankfully, no explosions this time, but it raises concerns over road safety and protecting lives.
Our Take: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) must enforce strict regulations on fuel tanker safety and maintenance. They should also demand accountability from transport companies whose vehicles fail basic safety checks.