Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.
1. Daily Trust: June 12: Protests against Hardship, Insecurity to Hold in 20 States
Ahead of the June 12 Democracy Day, the #TakeItBackMovement has insisted on the nationwide protest scheduled for Thursday. The organisers released a list of designated locations where demonstrators are expected to gather.
Our Take: In the face of growing protests against economic hardship and insecurity, the president must listen to citizens’ concerns, engage transparently, and take decisive steps to ease their suffering, rebuild public trust, and uphold the spirit of June 12 as a symbol of hope, not hardship.
2. The Guardian: Less Than 30 Percent Public Schools Have Computer Labs, ICT-Savvy Pupils
Nigeria’s ambitious push to adopt the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) model for national examinations faces monumental hurdles rooted in systemic inequality, technological deficits, multidimensional poverty and epileptic electricity supply.
While the federal government touts CBT as a tool to curb exam malpractice and modernise assessments, data revealed that Nigeria is unprepared for this transition, with marginalised communities, particularly in the North, poised to bear the brunt of its rollout.
Our Take: The Honourable Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa and state governments must urgently address the glaring digital divide threatening equitable access to learning in Nigeria by prioritising the provision of ICT infrastructure, teacher training, and reliable electricity in public schools, particularly in underserved regions. As the nation moves towards widespread adoption of Computer-Based Testing (CBT), it is key to ensure that no child is excluded due to systemic neglect.
3. Punch: Federal Government Budget Cut Leaves 1,500 Health Workers Without Pay
Over 1,500 health professionals under the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria have not been paid salaries in the last 20 months. The inability of the council to pay stemmed from the directive of the federal government to cut off funding from certain agencies of government.
Our Take: As the nation faces ongoing health and environmental challenges, neglecting those tasked with preventing disease outbreaks undermines national well-being. The Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu should work towards restoring funding to the Council.
