The event kicked off with an opening remark by the CEO of SPPG, Alero Ayida-Otobo “Technology is truly a game changer, playing a pivotal role in addressing significant developmental challenges across sectors in Africa: Communication, Commerce, Medicine, Education, Security, Food Production, and so much more.” The platform spotlighted four subthemes – blockchain technology, environmental awareness, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence (AI) – and had four of Africa’s bright minds share their big ideas.

Four Big Ideas Curators

Oluseun Badejo, project implementation specialist and team lead of the SPPG Blockchain Project shared his big idea on deploying blockchain technology deployment in the educational sector to address critical issues like certificate forgery, data alteration, and ensure that academic records are secure, accessible, authentic, and verifiable by employers and academic institutions without the hassle of running back to your alma mater each time your academic records are requested, scratch the traditional filing of academic records which takes time to find and has resulted to people losing academic and professional opportunities. This technology could be revolutionary in addressing the rampant issue of fake transcripts in Nigeria and across Africa. This will offer a secure and cost-effective solution for verifying academic credentials.

Speaking in a session on waste management tools, Sian Cuffy Young, an award-winning waste management consultant, educator and social entrepreneur, and founder of Siel (Sigh-el) Environmental, a highly successful social enterprise that revolutionises waste perception and practices for individuals and businesses, shared her big idea on how to create environmental awareness in children, educate them so they can make informed environmental choices. She emphasised that effective environmental change begins with an individual commitment to sanitise our environment as a personal responsibility. Her big idea cites the ‘innovative use of educational books and animations targeted at younger generations to underscore the need for teaching practical waste management skills early’. This focus on proactive methods over interventionist awareness campaigns will drive lasting environmental change.

Sabiqah Bello, representing Ahmad Salkida, the CEO of HumanAngle, a niche media platform using virtual reality to humanise Africa’s conflict, humanitarian, and development issues to evoke empathy, talked about their groundbreaking exploration of virtual reality (VR) in journalism. Offering a glimpse into the future of digital storytelling, the session illustrated VR’s ability to immerse viewers in the lived experiences of others, enhancing empathy and understanding. For journalists, VR technology represents a powerful tool for conveying emotional and impactful narratives, potentially transforming the framing and dissemination of news stories.

Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, Technology Education Professional, and Founder of Rise Networks and Passnonwnow, shared her big idea highlighting the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) for information verification in today’s data-heavy world. Akerele emphasised AI’s capacity to identify false reports, a key factor in combating misinformation. She also stressed the importance of integrating AI courses into educational curricula to prepare Africa’s growing population of AI users. By investing in AI, Africa can enhance its global competitiveness, ensuring that students and professionals are equipped with the necessary skills to utilise AI effectively.

Here’s a critical commentary by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji on AI

The VillageSquare Conversation

But beyond these big ideas, there was a question of how to scale them to transform Africa and build a better future. Dr Amina Salihu, the Deputy Director Africa Office of the MacArthur Foundation, pioneer Dean of SPPG and the lead of SPPG’s thought-leadership, led this conversation during The VillageSquare Conversation. Ajibola Amzat, a Nigerian investigative journalist, pointed out that technology can be useful but can be used as a weapon the other way round. Prof Remi Sonaiya, Nigerian politician and educationalist, and one-time presidential candidate, cited that the real challenges we face involve the ethical use of technology. She warned that technology, like a knife, can be a tool for good or harm and that the focus should be on the ethical dimension, character, competence, and capacity. However, Frank Nweke Jnr, a Nigerian Politician, Entrepreneur, Teacher and Social Innovator, and two-time Federal Minister cautioned that Africa is not represented in discussions on the global agenda regarding artificial intelligence. He added that the world will continue to have needs, and those with artificial intelligence expertise will be crucial in meeting them. On the other hand, Dr Obiageli ‘Oby’ Ezekwesili, Founder and Chair of the #FixPolitics, shared her concerns that it is the rate of the dearth of ideas that distinguishes one country from the other, one continent from the other, and reaffirmed SPPG’s determination to ensure that these big ideas will give resultant transformation in our continent.

The 2024 Big Ideas Platform proved to be an enlightening experience that offered attendees and uptakers a wealth of knowledge on the transformative potential of technology in addressing some of the continent’s most pressing issues.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the big ideas, insights, and innovations presented hold significant promise for driving positive change in Africa. The 2024 Big Ideas Platform successfully highlighted the critical intersection of technology and development, leaving attendees eager to take action for social impact across Nigeria and the broader African continent.

Join us, let’s co-create the Africa we need.

About the Big Ideas Platform: The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative developed by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance. With a focus on empowering African innovators and amplifying their voices, this platform aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and action to address the pressing challenges faced by African communities. By highlighting transformative ideas, the Big Ideas Platform strives to facilitate inclusive growth, development, and the realization of the African Renaissance.

The post Big Ideas Platform 2024: Recap of the Bold Ideas for Africa’s Renaissance appeared first on SPPG.

The adverse effects of fake news are many and serious. It undermines people’s confidence in trustworthy information sources and makes them doubtful of mainstream media and reputable institutions. The foundation of an educated society is being undermined by this lack of trust, creating uncertainty and false information. Fake news has the ability to sway public opinion, stir up anxiety, and even have an impact on important decisions like political elections. The democratic process is seriously endangered by the use of disinformation to manipulate public opinion. Therefore, the capacity to recognize fake news is crucial. It not only helps people make informed decisions, but it also protects the integrity of our information environment.

Advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have significantly simplified daily human activities. Developed by OpenAI, the Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT) serves as an example of these AI technologies. ChatGPT operates as a text-based conversational agent, providing textual responses to user queries. AI algorithms have been shown to be useful in detecting fake news or misinformation that may be interfering with efficiency and optimization. Proponents of using AI in the detection of fake news suggest that certain principles need to be followed, including the development of strategies by software designers to combat fake news, enabling software users to report fake news when detected, and keeping users informed of the dissemination of fake news. For example, deep learning, machine learning, and natural language processing can extract text- or image-based cues to train models to aid in the prediction of the authenticity of news. Alternatively, AI can be used to examine the social context of the news article, including features of the poster, such as the number of shares or retweets of the post. However, Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can also facilitate the spread of misinformation or fake news to the detriment of those seeking information on virtually any topic, particularly health, finances, and politics. In extreme cases, the spread of misinformation through the use of AI-generated videos or written content can set factions against one another, with violence.

The prevalence of large language models like ChatGPT in various domains, from healthcare to information dissemination, is undeniable. While they show promise in democratizing access to information and aiding in research, ethical and accuracy-related challenges loom large. Notably, the models’ capacity for generating misleading or false information raises ethical concerns, such as in the realm of fake news generation. The consequence extends from eroding trust in AI systems to affecting user perceptions, as corroborated by empirical studies. Additionally, personal harm can befall users as misinformation about health and finances, among other things, is generated and disseminated. Data ownership, user consent, and representational bias are additional layers of complexity in this discourse. Therefore, it is crucial to address these issues comprehensively for the responsible and equitable application of these potent tools in diverse sectors. 

In our battle against the trend of fake news on social media, Artificial Intelligence offers powerful tools for mitigating the spread of misinformation, but its deployment must be accompanied by careful consideration of ethical, societal, and technical implications. Understanding fake news is as convoluted as understanding human behaviour. Consequently, fighting it requires multifaceted strategies. Considering that the technology that counters fake news is the same technology that created it, neutralizing it may take more than just the expertise of top tech companies. The potential methods of detection and neutralization through AI form the basis of the discussions that we will be having at the Big Idea Platform 2024. 

In 2023, The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) partnered with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation to launch the inaugural Big Ideas Platform, centered around “Reawakening the African Renaissance: Pathways to Inclusive Growth and Development.” Five innovative African leaders shared groundbreaking ideas aimed at improving African communities’ quality of life. This year, The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) is excited to announce Big Ideas Platform 2024, in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, on May 25th, 2024. This year’s theme, “Information Technology and Behaviour Change,” will convene intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to discuss transformative ideas and solutions for Africa’s inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.

The event is open to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals about how Artificial Intelligence can be harnessed not only to combat fake news but also to improve Africa’s economy and enhance its development.

Date: May 25, 2024 (Africa Day) 

Time: 9:00 AM – 12 PM WAT (GMT+1) 

Venue: Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja/ Zoom

Click Here to register for #BIP2024 and stay up to date with event updates.

The post The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Detecting Fake News – #BigIdeasPlatform2024isHere appeared first on SPPG.

One significant application of VR is in the fields of healthcare and education where the technology has transformed learning methods by providing immersive and interactive experiences. In the healthcare field, surgical simulators are used to enable trainee surgeons to practice procedures in a realistic virtual environment, reducing the learning curve and enhancing patient safety. VR experiences have been utilized to alleviate pain and discomfort during medical procedures, enhancing patient comfort and reducing reliance on traditional analgesics. In the field of education, VR simulators have been used to explore pivotal moments in history which enhances student engagement and retention. VR-based language learning applications also facilitate language acquisition through immersive cultural experiences and interactive exercises.

These diverse virtual training offer many advantages over traditional learning, which, even with engaging presenters, tends to rely on PowerPoint presentations that can be unappealing and reduce engagement. With a training program enhanced by VR, there is less training material required and the trainer’s time is reduced, making VR training convenient and easy to provide multiple times. Simulations in VR allow for mistakes to be made without experiencing the consequences, providing opportunities to try different ways of working and explore improvements, especially in activities that relate to emergency situations. For sequential activities, the repetition of the tasks in VR provides a safe environment to practice, increasing information retention and instilling confidence in the trainee to carry out the task in the real world. VR training is proving to be very cost-effective, as it brings the site to the trainee, eliminating the cost challenges that come with travel.

While the benefits and advantages of deploying this technology in enhancing training programs within different fields, there are certain ethical concerns that need to be addressed to fully maximise its effectiveness. The ethical concerns associated with VR technology are multi-faceted. One concern is addiction, where users may become excessively absorbed in virtual environments, which is detrimental to mental health. There is also a fear that virtual crime could escalate and become more prevalent in society, leading to confusion about what constitutes a real-world crime versus a virtual one. Another concern is the use of VR technology in various industries, such as military and defence, healthcare, and entertainment. The ethical implications of using VR in these industries are varied, ranging from the potential for creating more realistic and practical training scenarios to the possibility of exploiting vulnerable populations or exposing sensitive information. Additionally, there are privacy concerns surrounding VR technology. As users enter virtual environments, data is collected and stored on their actions, preferences, and behaviours. This personal data may be used to manipulate users and influence their actions, as seen in targeted advertising.

Despite these concerns, the future of VR appears promising, with ongoing advancements in hardware, software, and content development. These opportunities form the basis of the discussions that we will be having at the Big Idea Platform 2024. 

In 2023, The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) partnered with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation to launch the inaugural Big Ideas Platform, centered around “Reawakening the African Renaissance: Pathways to Inclusive Growth and Development.” Five innovative African leaders shared groundbreaking ideas aimed at improving African communities’ quality of life. This year , The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) is excited to announce Big Ideas Platform 2024, in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, on May 25th, 2024. This year’s theme, “Information Technology and Behaviour Change,” will convene intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to discuss transformative ideas and solutions for Africa’s inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.

The event is open to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals about how Virtual Reality can be harnessed not only to across diverse industries but also to improve Africa’s economy and enhance its development.

Date: May 25, 2024 (Africa Day) 

Time: 9:00 AM – 12 PM WAT (GMT+1) 

Venue: Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja/ Zoom

Click Here to register for #BIP2024 and stay up to date with event updates.

Join us, let’s co-create the Africa we need.

The post The Use of Virtual Reality In Addressing Challenges – #BigIdeasPlatform2024isHere appeared first on SPPG.

One of the primary benefits of blockchain in education is the creation of a tamper-proof and secure digital transcript. This transcript can store a student’s academic history, including grades, certifications, and other achievements, in a decentralised and secure manner. This can eliminate the need for traditional paper-based transcripts, which can be easily lost, damaged, or tampered with. Another potential benefit of blockchain in education is the creation of a centralised platform for the issuance and verification of digital credentials. This can greatly simplify the process of obtaining and verifying academic credentials, as it eliminates the need for intermediaries to validate them. Additionally, the secure and transparent nature of blockchain can help to prevent fraud, as it provides a reliable and tamper-proof record of a student’s achievements.

Another area where blockchain can have a significant impact is in the area of online education. By incorporating blockchain technology into online learning platforms, educators can create secure and trustworthy systems for delivering and tracking online courses and certifications. This can help to improve the credibility and recognition of online education, making it a more attractive option for students and employers alike. Starting with the general idea, blockchain is a revolutionary technology with the potential to revolutionise various industries, including education. By creating secure and transparent platforms for tracking and verifying students’ academic achievements, blockchain technology can help to create a more accessible and trustworthy education system, making it easier for students to showcase their skills and knowledge to potential employers.

One of the primary challenges hindering the widespread adoption of blockchain in education is the perceived technological complexity. Implementing blockchain-based solutions requires expertise in distributed systems, cryptography, and smart contract development, which may be beyond the capabilities of many educational institutions. Additionally, the regulatory and legal landscape surrounding blockchain technology is still evolving, posing uncertainties and compliance challenges for educational stakeholders. Concerns related to data privacy, intellectual property rights, and jurisdictional issues need to be addressed to ensure the lawful and ethical use of blockchain in education.

Despite these challenges, the integration of blockchain technology holds immense promise for transforming the educational system into a more transparent, secure, and efficient ecosystem. The potential of incorporating this technology into the educational sector in Africa forms the basis of the discussions that we will be having at the Big Idea Platform 2024. 

In 2023, The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) partnered with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation to launch the inaugural Big Ideas Platform, centred around “Reawakening the African Renaissance: Pathways to Inclusive Growth and Development.” Five innovative African leaders shared groundbreaking ideas aimed at improving African communities’ quality of life. This year , The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) is excited to announce Big Ideas Platform 2024, in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, on May 25th, 2024. This year’s theme, “Information Technology and Behaviour Change,” will convene intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to discuss transformative ideas and solutions for Africa’s inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.

The event is open to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals about the Use of Blockchain Technology In The Educational System.

Date: May 25, 2024 (Africa Day) 

Time: 9:00 AM – 12 PM WAT (GMT+1) 

Venue: Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja/ Zoom

Click Here to register for #BIP2024 and stay up to date with event updates.

The post Unveiling the Impact of Blockchain Technology on the Educational System: #BigIdeasPlatform2024IsHere appeared first on SPPG.

Awareness plays a pivotal role in shaping individual behaviours and attitudes towards waste management. Lack of awareness often leads to improper disposal practices such as littering, illegal dumping, and indiscriminate waste disposal, exacerbating environmental degradation and pollution. Educating the public about the environmental consequences of improper waste disposal and the benefits of adopting sustainable practices is crucial for fostering responsible behaviour and promoting a culture of waste reduction and recycling. Learning tools, including educational programs, digital applications, and interactive platforms, offer effective means of disseminating information and engaging individuals in waste management initiatives. Educational programs conducted in schools, communities, and workplaces provide structured learning experiences that raise awareness and promote sustainable waste practices among participants. Digital applications and online platforms offer interactive tools and resources, allowing users to access information, track their waste footprint, and participate in recycling programs conveniently. 

The search for improved environmental quality has driven several governments in developing nations to adopt the use of Environmental Education in improving the attitude and behaviour of its citizenry towards waste management. One could ask what is the behaviour of undergraduate students towards waste management in Nigeria. Waste management behaviours are all attitude, disposition and perception towards properly disposing of waste in any environment one finds himself. Waste management behaviour includes open dumping, careless attitude towards properly disposing of institutional waste like food wrappers, torn books or papers, hotel food remains, vegetable remains etc. A degraded environment can only offer a degraded quality of life. If we really desire to sustain and improve upon the present quality of life, then it is the collective responsibility of every living human being to secure the quality of the environment. 

It has been repeatedly emphasized that there is an irrepressible need for entrenching Environmental Education as a leading approach to solving environmental problems and creating a sustainable society. The poor as well as the affluent are equally vulnerable to environmental damage. The poor and poverty-stricken people, wherever they may live, are generally preoccupied with the issue of physical survival. They lack money, skills and knowledge and therefore oftentimes, tend to over-utilise local resources beyond sustainable levels. They, therefore, need to be empowered to be able to control their resources and therefore their lives according to the tenets of a sustainable, safe and clean environment for healthy living in society.

The implementation of these learning tools to facilitate Environmental Education faces several challenges, including limited access to technology and cultural differences. Additionally, sustaining public interest and engagement in long-term waste management initiatives requires continuous efforts and resources. These implementation methods and challenges form the basis of the discussions that we will be having at the Big Idea Platform 2024.

In 2023, The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) partnered with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation to launch the inaugural Big Ideas Platform, centered around “Reawakening the African Renaissance: Pathways to Inclusive Growth and Development.” Five innovative African leaders shared groundbreaking ideas aimed at improving African communities’ quality of life. This year , The School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) is pleased to announce Big Ideas Platform 2024, in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, on May 25th, 2024. This year’s theme, “Information Technology and Behaviour Change,” will convene intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to discuss transformative ideas and solutions for Africa’s inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.

The event is open to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals about how we can Use of Learning tools to Build awareness of Waste Management.

Date: May 25, 2024 (Africa Day) 

Time: 9:00 AM – 12 PM WAT (GMT+1) 

Venue: Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja/ Zoom

Click Here to register for #BIP2024 and stay up to date with event updates.

About the Big Ideas Platform: The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative developed by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance. With a focus on empowering African innovators and amplifying their voices, this platform aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and action to address the pressing challenges faced by African communities. By highlighting transformative ideas, the Big Ideas Platform strives to facilitate inclusive growth, development, and the realization of the African Renaissance.

The post The Use of Learning tools to Build awareness of Waste Management: #BigIdeasPlatform2024isHere appeared first on SPPG.

This year, we are pleased to announce Big Ideas Platform 2024 in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation. This thought leadership initiative, taking place on May 25th, 2024, will explore the theme “Information Technology and Behaviour Change”.

The event will gather leading intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to engage in stimulating discussions and showcase bold ideas and disruptive solutions that can propel Africa toward a future of inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.

The Big Ideas Platform is an intellectual convergence of concepts, a marketplace of ideas, where exceptional African minds convene to engage in robust conversations. The platform will facilitate the sharing, generation, and collaboration of fresh ideas, innovative solutions, and implementation strategies to address Africa’s plethora of challenges.

Speaking at the event, Alero Ayida-Otobo, the CEO of SPPG, said, “The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative that serves as a platform for launching new thinking, spotlighting visionary individuals, and illuminating bold ideas that have the potential to improve the lives of African communities.”

According to her, the Big Ideas Platform will serve as a catalyst for change, fostering a community of forward-thinking individuals committed to translating ideas into impactful actions that shape the continent’s future. 

The Big Ideas Platform 2024 focuses on the crucial role of information technology and behaviour change in propelling Africa towards a better future.

Dr Amina, Faculty of SPPG, said, “We must remember that technology is a tool, and for a sustainable and enduring African Renaissance, we must reconsider how technology is harnessed to drive system change that benefits everyone, helping to shift behaviour from damaging to managing our scarce resources.”

Key areas of focus at Big Ideas Platform 2024 will include:

• Blockchain technology: This is premised on immutable records to protect legal tender such as academic certificates and to earn revenue. 
• Virtual Reality: A four-dimensional visual experience of hard-to-reach places such as conflict zones to build awareness and empathy and inform accurate urgent action.  
• Artificial intelligence: Non-animate machines trained to think and act like humans for humans, for example, identifying fake news. 
• Environmental Awareness: Child-centred learning tools to shift children’s understanding of waste and its management to secure wealth and the environment.

Click here to Register

Our lineup of panellists for this year’s edition includes: 

Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, EdTech professional and Founder of Passnownow.com; Oluseun Badejo, Team Lead of SPPG Blockchain project; Mrs. Sian (Shan) Cuffy Young, Founder of Siel (Sigh-el) Environmental; and Ahmad Salkida, Investigative Reporter.

The event is open to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals, who have the requisite knowledge about improving Africa’s economy and enhancing its development.  

Join us, let’s co-create the Africa we need.

About the Big Ideas Platform: The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative developed by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance. With a focus on empowering African innovators and amplifying their voices, this platform aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and action to address the pressing challenges faced by African communities. By highlighting transformative ideas, the Big Ideas Platform strives to facilitate inclusive growth, development, and the realization of the African Renaissance.

The post Big Ideas Platform 2024 to Spotlight Bold Ideas in Information Technology and Behaviour Change for Africa’s Development appeared first on SPPG.

This pan-African intellectual convergence serves as a vibrant marketplace of ideas, bringing together exceptional minds to address the continent’s challenges and chart a path towards inclusive growth and development.

Big Ideas Platform 2023: A Recap of Big Ideas of Forward-Thinking Africans Shared in 2023

Five dynamic citizens of Africa whose ideas illuminated bold solutions that can enhance the quality of life in African communities shared a platform to tell a diverse audience the story of their Big Ideas.

Here is a recap of the Big Ideas platformed in 2023:

• Amal Hassan, Founder/CEO of Outsource Global, emphasized the significance of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) as a pivotal economic catalyst. She underscored BPO’s role in generating millions of jobs in India and highlighted Nigeria’s potential to replicate this success. With robust infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a constant influx of graduates with diverse skill sets, Hassan suggested that Nigeria has the capacity to harness BPO opportunities, cater to global demands while retaining her youths.

• Adetola Onayemi, CEO of Norebase, highlighted the stark disparity between Africa’s population share of 15% and its GDP contribution of only 3% globally. He emphasized the urgent need for strategies to bolster Africa’s GDP and advocated for initiatives that not only foster continental prosperity but also contribute to the growth of global GDP, hence his big idea on Borderless Business

• Ijeoma Akwiwu, Co-founder/COO of Pivo Africa, presented her big idea of building an end-to-end financial operating system for Africa’s supply chain. Reflecting on the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Akwiwu underscored its profound impact on individuals and businesses, highlighting the urgent need for resilient financial systems capable of mitigating disruptions, hence her big idea.

• Hamzat Lawal, Founder of CODE and Follow the Money, addressed the concept of “Factivism,” combining activism with data-driven facts. Lawal recounted the tragic narrative of lead poisoning in Zamfara, where 700 children lost their lives and 1500 were left sick. He detailed how the #SaveBadega campaign, rooted in factivism, garnered significant attention and spurred governmental action in response to the urgent crisis.

• Samson Ogbole, Farmer at Soilless Farm Lab, spoke on “Soilless Farming” for sustainable agriculture. Drawing attention to the aging demographic of Nigerian farmers, with an average age of approximately 60 years, Ogbole highlighted the concerning lack of interest among young people in agricultural pursuits. He emphasized the urgency of involving youths in agriculture to address the imminent challenge of an aging farming population and the adoption of soilless farming to ensure food security for the future.

These insightful discussions shed light on various critical themes, generating valuable insights and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Big Ideas Platform 2024 is here!

[Click her to Register]

This year, our focus is on information technology and behaviour change. We invite you to join a panel of speakers addressing a diverse audience of policymakers, advocates, captains of industry, youth, schools, and community leadership on your insight. It is noteworthy to mention that this year, Toyosi Akerele, who as you know is a leading AI in public interest unicorn is a guest speaker at the Big Ideas Platform 2024.

Register now for #BIP2024 on our website: https://kenya.thesppg.org/bip2024

About the Big Ideas Platform: The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative developed by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance. With a focus on empowering African innovators and amplifying their voices, this platform aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and action to address the pressing challenges faced by African communities. By highlighting transformative ideas, the Big Ideas Platform strives to facilitate inclusive growth, development, and the realization of the African Renaissance.

The post SPPG Reflects on the Big Ideas of #BIP2023 and Unveils the Anticipated Big Ideas Platform 2024 appeared first on SPPG.

The late-admission application window into the #SPPGClassof2024 is open and closes on October 20 2023

The SPPG, School of Politics, Policy and Governance, established in 2020, is building a pipeline of a new and disruptive-thinking political class with a mission to transform the quality of political and public leadership in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. The School is a unique Public Leadership Preparation initiative. 

The SPPG educates present and future leaders that are committed to public good and who are ready to serve as stewards of the well-being of all Nigerians. The School delivers an unconventional multidisciplinary curriculum that is aimed at producing a massive base of ethical, competent and capable public leadership with the requisite knowledge and skills to solve complex development problems in our country and continent. 

So far, SPPG has graduated 3 cohorts of students as #PioneerClassof2021 (160), #Classof2022 (133) and #Classof2023 (184). Consistent with the mission of TheSPPG.org, upon graduation, many of our students run for elective offices across various parties while others pursue leadership careers in the public and private sectors as well as civil society.

In furtherance of our mission and commitment to attracting exceptional talents and students, , we have decided to open a Late Admission Window for those who wish to apply to the #Classof2024. The deadline for applications using the Late Application Window is extremely tight and ends on October 20, 2023. Admission to the SPPG is highly competitive through a rigorous selection process conducted entirely virtually. 

To apply, visit thesppg.org . 

Who can apply?

• All applicants must have a minimum educational qualification of a B.Sc or HND/BA. 
• Applicants must be able to demonstrate commitment to public leadership.
• The ability to demonstrate the successful execution of projects will be an advantage.
• What you need to apply
• Applicants are required to upload the following to the online application portal:
• Academic qualification (BA, B.Sc or HND).
• Master or any other Post Graduate Certificate (if applicable).
• Personal Statement (Maximum – 750 words).
• Curriculum Vitae (Maximum – 2 pages).
• Details of 2 recommenders (peer, community leader or employer who must have known you for a minimum of 6 months and can vouch for your character and suitability for this program).

Application Deadline

To fast-track the admissions process, applicants are expected to fulfil all admission requirements on or before October 20 2023. 

Limited scholarship slots are available. Terms and conditions apply.

Incomplete applications (applications without recommendation letters) will be disqualified.

To learn more about the School of Politics, Policy and Governance, visit thesppg.org.

The post The late-admission application window into the #SPPGClassof2024 is open and closes on October 20 2023 appeared first on SPPG.

After a rigorous but rewarding transformative journey of 10 months, the #SPPGClassof2023 has experienced a remarkable journey of growth, invaluable knowledge exchange from our global faculty, capstone mentors, and peers, as well as outstanding accomplishments, which is why we are pleased to celebrate their steadfast dedication to transformative political and public leadership.

This year, the inaugural edition of the Africa Conference 2023 debuts as part of the graduation ceremony for #SPPGClassof2023. It promises to be a historic gathering that assembles African value-oriented governance and citizen movements to connect, learn from each other, and build a lasting network of disruptive leaders in the public space, ready to shape and influence the future of governance in their respective countries and throughout the continent.

We are excited to bring the line-up of activities marking the #SPPGClassOf2023 Graduation Event to your notice. It promises to be a remarkable experience. One you wouldn’t want to miss.

Kindly find the details below:

1. The Africa Conference:

The Africa Conference will bring together disruptive political and community leaders, SPPG students and alumni, and the #FixPolitics WSG Community. We will explore the significance of citizen-led movements, their impact on African governance, and their crucial role in the continent’s renaissance.

Day 1:  The first day of the event will focus on the theme “Governance and Political Trends in Africa: An Overview of Citizen’s Movement and their impact

Date: October 5th, 2023

Time: 10:00 am -5:00 pm WAT

Venue: Shehu Yar’Adua Center, Abuja

Day 2: The conference continues with feedback sessions, where participants will share the outcomes of their discussions from the previous day and work towards actionable solutions.

Date:  October 6th, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm- 3:30 pm WAT

Venue:  Shehu Yar’Adua Center, Abuja

2. Graduation Ceremony:

The events will culminate in the graduation ceremony recognizing the achievements of the #SPPGClassof2023  and celebrating their journey towards becoming values-driven, disruptive leaders.

Date: October 7th, 2023

Time: 10:00 am -3:00 pm WAT

Venue: Idris .A. Abdulkadir Auditorium, National Universities Commission, 26 Aguiyi Ironsi, Maitama, Abuja.

Please RSVP for each event you plan to attend via the registration link below:

Attendance is free, but registration is compulsory.

Click here to RSVP  for both events.

The post Join us for the phenomenal #SPPGClassof2023 Graduation Week appeared first on SPPG.

As one who read Social and Public Policy at my Master’s level and has been privy to contributing to developing policies at both local and international levels, I have seen the implications of how a badly executed policy has tremendously affected the polity of the economy.

Having carried out a previous study on the implications of fuel subsidy on the economy, social welfare, and overall development of Nigeria, to share my findings let us first delve deep into understanding what Fuel Subsidy is. Fuel subsidy refers to the government’s practice of artificially lowering the price of petroleum products, particularly gasoline, through financial interventions. While it may seem like a beneficial policy, especially for consumers who enjoy lower fuel prices, the long-term consequences of fuel subsidy can be detrimental to the country’s progress.

As a public policy expert who understands both lenses (mass agitation vs government policy), it is imperative that the government maintain a balance when implementing changes or removing policies. When a particular policy, such as fuel subsidy, is removed, it is crucial to have measures in place to mitigate any potential negative consequences and ensure a smooth transition. The goal is to avoid disruptions that could lead to social unrest or economic instability, thereby safeguarding national peace.

The practice of artificially lowering the price of petroleum products through financial interventions has been a longstanding policy in Nigeria. While it may initially appear beneficial by providing affordable fuel to consumers, the long-term consequences of fuel subsidy pose significant dangers to the country’s development and growth. This article will explore the implications of fuel subsidy on Nigeria’s economy, social welfare, and overall progress. It highlights the drain on the national budget, fostering inefficiency in the energy sector, contributing to corruption, and hindering market dynamics and innovation. It also emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in policy implementation and offers insights into the UK’s experience with policy transitions.

The Drain on the National Budget:

One of the major dangers of fuel subsidies is their significant drain on the national budget. For example, let’s say, the intention of the government to subsidize petrol was simply to make the product affordable for Nigerians and make life easier. So, the average price of petrol in the world can be as high as N590, however, the Nigerian Government will subsidize the product and fix the price at N185 bringing the total amount of subsidy per liter to N405.

According to data released by NNPC in 2022, the average consumption of liters of petrol in Nigeria per day is 60 million liters. Even though The controversy surrounding the actual daily petrol consumption in Nigeria has been unending with the different agencies in charge of the importation and distribution of Premium Motor Spirits reeling out conflicting figures. The daily petrol consumption in Nigeria remains a mystery. However, If the average consumption of petrol in Nigeria per day is indeed 60 million liters, it would indicate a significant demand for petrol in the country. Nigeria is one of the largest oil-producing countries in Africa, and petroleum products, including petrol, play a crucial role in the country’s energy and transportation sectors.

However, Marketers of the product load as much as 100 million liters and above per day.

This means the Nigerian Government is expected to pay as much as N405 × 100,000,000 (liters) as subsidy per day to the Marketers of the product to keep prices at N185 for instance. This brings the amounts to N40.5 billion daily and about N1.2 trillion monthly. Kindly take note that this amount can either decrease or increase following the prices of petrol at the international market.

So, just try to wrap your head around it and know what Nigeria expends on fuel subsidy alone in a year – obviously some billions of dollars.

From the government’s end; subsidizing fuel requires a substantial amount of public funds that could otherwise be allocated to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare programs. This limits the government’s ability to invest in these areas, hindering overall development and growth. One may beg to ask, how judiciously have people in authority utilized the national budget to advance the economy?

To determine the actual daily petrol consumption; the NNPC, which is currently responsible for importing 100 percent of petrol into the country, needs to submit its accounts for forensic auditing as advised by experts.

Fostering Inefficiency in the Energy Sector:

Analyzing from the lens of the Energy Sector, Fuel subsidy fosters inefficiency in the sector by discouraging private investment. When the government artificially lowers fuel prices, it reduces the incentive for private sector participation in the petroleum industry. This lack of investment hampers the development of domestic refining capabilities, leading to heavy reliance on imported petroleum products. Consequently, Nigeria becomes dependent on foreign sources for its energy needs, negatively impacting national sovereignty and economic stability.

Contribution to Corruption and Rent-Seeking Behaviors:

Looking at the various caveats explored above, it is evident that fuel subsidy also contributes to widespread corruption and rent-seeking behaviors. The opaque nature of subsidy disbursement and the large sums of money involved create opportunities for corrupt practices. Some individuals exploit the system to divert funds meant for fuel subsidy, leading to a significant loss of public resources. These corrupt practices perpetuate inequality and hinder socioeconomic development.

Distortion of Market Dynamics and Inhibition of Innovation:

Market analysts and Climate change activists will argue that fuel subsidy distorts market dynamics and discourages innovation in the energy sector. When prices are artificially low, there is little incentive for consumers to adopt energy-efficient technologies or explore alternative sources of energy. This inhibits the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, which are crucial for addressing climate change and reducing environmental pollution.

In contrast, if fuel subsidies are phased out or removed, it creates a more level playing field for different energy sources. The true cost of fossil fuels, including their environmental and social impacts, is reflected in the market price. This can incentivize consumers and businesses to seek out cleaner energy options and invest in innovative technologies that reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

For instance, higher fuel prices can stimulate demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and encourage the development of charging infrastructure. With the removal of fuel subsidies, consumers may be more motivated to consider EVs as a viable alternative, leading to increased adoption and market growth. This, in turn, spurs innovation in the EV industry, with companies investing in research and development to improve battery technology, extend driving range, and reduce costs in a more sustainable way. This indeed could usher us into the future of energy sustainability.

A Balanced Approach to Policy Implementation:

Having analyzed the pros and cons of fuel subsidy, in the realm of public policy, it is imperative to maintain a balance when implementing changes or removing policies. When a particular policy, such as fuel subsidy, is removed, it is crucial to have measures in place to mitigate any potential negative consequences and ensure a smooth transition. The goal is to avoid disruptions that could lead to social unrest or economic instability, thereby safeguarding national peace.

To articulate this concept better, let’s consider the example of strategically removing fuel subsidy. Instead of abruptly ending the subsidy, a comprehensive approach should be adopted. This approach involves researching and implementing alternative policies and measures that cater to a balance between the needs of the people and the larger economic objectives.

For instance, when removing fuel subsidy, the government can introduce targeted social safety net programs to protect vulnerable populations from sudden price shocks. These programs can provide direct cash transfers, subsidies on essential goods and services especially on transportation, or support for income-generating activities. By implementing such measures, the government ensures that the removal of the subsidy does not disproportionately burden those already facing economic hardships, thereby maintaining social cohesion.

While safety net programs require government expenditure, their impact on the national budget can be managed through careful budgetary planning and fiscal discipline. Governments can implement measures such as means-testing, periodic reassessments, and cost controls to ensure that the programs are effectively reaching the intended beneficiaries while minimizing waste and preventing excessive strain on public finances. Also, these safety net programs can provide an economic multiplier effect. By providing support to vulnerable individuals or households, these programs can help maintain a certain level of consumer spending, which, in turn, can stimulate demand and contribute to economic activity. This can have indirect benefits for businesses and employment, leading to overall economic stability and growth.

Additionally, when removing a policy like fuel subsidy, the government should simultaneously work towards creating an enabling environment for private sector participation and investment. This can be achieved by implementing supportive policies, such as improving the ease of doing business, providing incentives for domestic refining and alternative energy sources, and promoting competition in the energy sector. These measures stimulate economic growth, foster innovation, and create employment opportunities, thereby mitigating any potential negative impacts on the economy.

Furthermore, effective communication and transparency are vital during policy transitions. The government should engage with stakeholders, including civil society organizations, experts, and affected communities, to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed. Transparent reporting on the utilization of public funds and regular audits can help build trust and hold those in authority accountable for their actions, reducing the likelihood of corruption and mismanagement.

Lessons from the UK’s Experience with Policy Transitions: Universal Credit

While doing a case study on Universal Credit a welfare benefit system introduced in the United Kingdom, designed to simplify the process of receiving various social security benefits into a single monthly payment. It replaces six existing benefits, including housing benefits and income support, and aims to provide a more streamlined and responsive support system for individuals and families. I picked up a few strategic lessons. The UK government’s implementation of Universal Credit provides valuable lessons on policy transitions and the importance of considering social and economic balance. Comprehensive planning, gradual implementation, and mitigating potential negative impacts were key aspects of the Universal Credit reform. The government actively engaged with stakeholders supported employment opportunities, and implemented monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure the policy’s success. Even though there were a few lapses in the proper execution, it was commendable by the larger populace. Incorporating these lessons into policy-making processes can enhance the likelihood of achieving desired objectives while maintaining social and economic balance.

Recommendation for the Nigeria Government

In order to ensure a comprehensive and balanced approach to the fuel subsidy removal policy and its impact on the Nigerian population, the government should consider the following recommendations:

• Conduct a thorough and inclusive analysis: The government should undertake a comprehensive analysis of the fuel subsidy removal policy, taking into account the perspectives and concerns of various stakeholders, including citizens, businesses, and experts. This analysis should assess the short-term and long-term effects of the policy on the livelihoods of Nigerians and the overall economy.
• Consider the welfare of the average Nigerian: When determining fuel prices, the government should consider the minimum wage and the standard of living of the average Nigerian. This will help ensure that the cost of fuel remains affordable and does not disproportionately burden the most vulnerable segments of society.
• Implement measures to mitigate the adverse effects: Recognizing that the removal of fuel subsidies may have negative consequences, especially for low-income individuals and households, the government should implement targeted measures to mitigate these effects. This could include implementing social safety nets, such as direct cash transfers or subsidies for essential goods and services, to cushion the impact on vulnerable populations.
• Explore alternative solutions: Instead of relying solely on fuel subsidy removal, the government should explore alternative solutions to address the challenges in the energy sector. This could involve promoting renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and diversifying the energy mix. By investing in sustainable and clean energy solutions, the government can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and create a more resilient and environmentally friendly energy system.
• Prioritize citizen welfare: Above all, the government should prioritize the welfare and well-being of the Nigerian people. This means actively listening to their concerns, engaging in open dialogue, and incorporating their feedback into policy decisions. By adopting a citizen-centric approach, the government can ensure that its actions align with the needs and aspirations of the Nigerian population.

In conclusion, the politics behind fuel subsidy in Nigeria, while often perceived as a means of providing short-term relief to citizens, pose significant dangers to the country’s development and growth. When removing a policy, measures should be put in place to mitigate potential negative consequences and maintain social harmony. To achieve sustainable development and foster economic growth, a balanced approach to policy implementation is essential, including targeted social safety net programs, fostering private sector participation, promoting transparency, and engaging with stakeholders. Certainly, accountability and judicious utilization of the national budget by people in authority play a crucial role in advancing the economy and ensuring overall development. While it is true that some individuals in positions of power have misused public funds, it is essential to recognize that effective public policies and good governance can address these challenges and foster positive outcomes. By adopting such a comprehensive approach, policymakers can navigate policy transitions effectively, avoiding distortions of national peace and fostering sustainable development.

Precious Chimdimma Ebere Class of 2022
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