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Nigeria Policy Institute,
USA Committed to Good Governance , Says Asiegbu
08.19.2007
The Nigeria Policy Institute, USA (NPI-USA), a non
profit and non partisan organization representing center for all Nigerians
in Diaspora and at home has pledged its support to assist the
government of Nigeria and its agencies in making good public policies
so as to take the country to the next level.
The NPI-USA Executive Director , Prince Jimmy Asiegbu,
in a statement to mark the birth of the capacity building organization
said that for Nigeria to attain the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs),
there was need to have a credible policy center to assist
governments in every level in formulating good public policies before they
go into law as well as evaluating prevailing policies and
commend or proffer the best options for the progress of the country.
Asiegbu who was the founder of Anambra State Association,
(ASA-USA) residing in the United States of America said that some of
the government's socio-economic, political, domestic and international
policies have not achieved the purposes for which they were aimed at as a
result of what he described as bad policies.
With the activities of Nigeria Policy Institute, USA that
cut across many things including research, review, recommend of cases
and issues, advertisement, promotions, publicity, seminary/workshops,
development issues, among others, he said if given opportunity would
evaluate current and future government policies and make
recommendations where necessary for the benefit of the country.
"Certain government's policies are prejudiced
against certain groups of Nigerians, ethnicity or Religion, while some
policies are formulated for selfish purposes or aimed at protecting certain
individuals. In all, these policies result in economic retrogression and
anti-people' s progress, disunity, bribery, corruption, unemployment, waste
of financial and human resources, moral decadence and breeds a disjointed
society. We are here to assist Nigerian governments in the formulation of
good policies for the challenges ahead. I call on the Nigerian communities
to access our web site at www.nigeriapolicyinstitute.org
to see how they can be part of moving our country, Nigeria forward." he
said.
With optimism, he noted that the Nigeria Policy
Institute, USA is committed to good public policies for the Nigerian
government, adding that the present administration must embrace it so
as to move forward like other developed economies.
" The reason for the birth of the NPI, USA is to help our
governments govern well through formulation and implementation of good
public and progressive policies. We represent all Nigerians For Good
Government Policies both at home and in Diaspora.
We do not believe in perennial criticism of our leaders or our governments.
We want to be part of the change, and we can do it through effective
monitoring and evaluation of these government policies, and proffering
better suggestions on the policies that are deemed retrogressive and
anti-people" Asiegbu, former ASA-USA President and Chairman of the
Board, assured.
While tasking the Federal and State governments to embrace good governance,
he informed that NPI-USA is the center for all Nigerians in
diaspora and at home, as well as Americans and other Nationalities who
advocate for good government policies and their strict implementations as
they affect Nigeria and the International Communities.
"We believe strongly that good public policies is a
vehicle to achieving good governance and that the implementations of
good policies leads to good, disciplined, transparent, progressive,
less-corrupt and happy society. Our membership comprises men and women
of great ideas, professionals from various fields and distinguished
intellectuals of great intelligence.
"We get information and feedback from grassroots and
leaders of diverse organizations both in Nigerian and in Diaspora. Views and
contributions of different Nigerian organizations, such as Nigeria Labor
Congress, ASUU, Civil Rights Organizations and various ethnic groups.Our
focus is on all areas of socio-economic, cultural and political affairs of
our Country as they affect the federal and State governments and our
lawmakers" he added.
US-based
Nigerian institute to help UN in policy formulation
By
Sunny Obidigbo
ISSUES of good governance and rule of law were
the preoccupation of Nigeria Policy Institute, a non-profit making and
non-governmental organisation based in United States (U.S.), which yesterday
offered support to the Federal Government and its agencies in making good
policies for the benefit of the citizens.
The group's executive director, Jimmy Asiegbu, in a statement to mark the
birth of the organisation, said for Nigeria to attain the objective of the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), there was need to have a credible policy
lecture that would assist all tiers of government in the formulation of public
policies before they are enacted into law.Such a centre should help in
evaluating existing policies and proffer the best options for the progress of
the country.
Asiegbu, who is the founder of Anambra State Association (ASA) in U.S.A. (ASA-USA),
also explained that the NPI-USA represents the interests of all Nigerians living
in the Diaspora and at home.According to him, some of the government
socio-economic, political, domestic and international policies have not achieved
the purposes for which they were formulated, a development he attributed to bad
policies.
The activities of the institute cut across many fields including research,
review, advertisement, promotions, publicity, seminar/workshops, development
issues, among others.He said if given the opportunity, the centre would evaluate
current and future government policies and make recommendations where necessary
for the benefit of the country.
"Certain government policies are prejudiced against certain groups of
Nigerians, ethnicity or religion, while some policies are formulated for selfish
purposes or aimed at protecting certain individuals.
"In all, these policies result in economic retrogression and
anti-people's progress, disunity, bribery, corruption, unemployment, waste of
financial and human resources, moral decadence and breed a disjointed society.
We are here to assist Nigerian governments in the formulation of good policies
for the challenges ahead", he said.
NPI-USA is committed to good
governance, says Asiegbu
Friday, August 24, 2007
The Nigeria Policy Institute, USA (NPI-USA), a non profit and non
partisan organization for all Nigerians in Diaspora and at home has pledged its
support to assist the government of Nigeria and its agencies in
making good public policies so as to take the country to the next level.
The NPI-USA Executive Director, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu in a
statement to mark the birth of the capacity building organization said
that for Nigeria to attain the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs), said
there is need to have a credible policy centre to assist governments
in every level in formulating good public policies before they go into law as
well as evaluating prevailing policies and commend or proffer the
best options for the progress of the country.
Asiegbu who was the founder of Anambra State Association, (ASA-USA) residing
in the United States of America said that some of the government's
socio-economic, political, domestic and international policies have not achieved
the purposes for which they were aimed at as a result of what he described as
bad policies.
With the activities of Nigeria Policy Institute, USA that cut across many
things including research, review, recommendations of cases and issues,
advertisement, promotions, publicity, seminary/workshops, development issues,
among others, he said if given opportunity would evaluate current and
future government policies and make recommendations where necessary for the
benefit of the country.
“Certain government's policies are prejudiced against certain groups
of Nigerians, ethnicity or religion, while some policies are formulated
for selfish purposes or aimed at protecting certain individuals. In all, these
policies result in economic retrogression and anti-people's progress, disunity,
bribery, corruption, unemployment, waste of financial and human resources, moral
decadence and breeds a disjointed society. We are here to assist Nigerian
governments in the formulation of good policies for the challenges
ahead” he said.
August 26, 2007
NPI
reiterates commitment on good policy for Nigeria
A newly formed Nigeria Policy Institute (NPI) based in the
United States, has reiterated commitment to contribute its quota in development
of the country, especially on good policy development.
Disclosing this, Executive Director, NPI, Prince Jimmy
Asiegbu, said that the non- profit and non-partisan organization’s focus would
be to act as a centre for the contribution of all Nigerians in Diaspora in the
areas of policy development, to ensure improved process and support the
government and its agencies with relevant policy guidelines that are of global
standard.
"We have pledged our support to assist the government of
Nigeria and its agencies in making good public policies so as to take the
country to the next level," he declared.
Prince Asiegbu also informed that the NPI has set up
strategies to ensure that Nigeria attains the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs).
"There is need to have a credible policy centre to
assist governments in every level in formulating good public policies before
they go into law as well as evaluating prevailing policies and commend or
proffer the best options for the progress of the country," he said.
Asiegbu who also is one of the founding fathers of Anambra
State Association, (ASA-USA) residing in the United States, noted that some of
the nation’s government socio-economic, political, domestic and international
policies have not achieved the purposes for which they were aimed at as a result
of what he described such "as bad policies."
According to him, with the activities of Nigeria Policy
Institute, which cut across many facets, including research, review, recommend
of cases and issues, advertisement, promotions, publicity, seminar/workshops,
development issues, among others, has been focused to give the relevant
opportunity in evaluating current and future government policies and make
recommendations where necessary for the benefit of the country.
"Certain government’s policies are prejudiced against
certain groups of Nigerians, ethnicity or religion, while some policies are
formulated for selfish purposes or aimed at protecting certain
individuals," Asiegbu said.
He pointed out that bad policies result in economic
retrogression and anti-people’ s progress, disunity, bribery, corruption,
unemployment, waste of financial and human resources, moral decadence and breeds
a disjointed society.
"We’re here to assist Nigerian governments in the
formulation of good policies for the challenges ahead," he asserted and
called on the Nigerians to access NPI website at www.nigeriapolicyinstitute.org
and to see how they could be part of moving the nation.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Policy Institute Seeks FG's
Action on Commodity Prices
09.03.2007, Thisday
Publications
Amidst complaints from Nigerians and prospective foreign
investors concerning the exorbitant prices of cement and other building
materials in the country, the Nigerian Policy Institute. (NPI), a United
States based non-governmental organization, has called on the Federal
Government to review it's current Policies on Cement Industry to effectively
address it's retrogressive effect on the economy and the Nigerian masses.
The U.S. based Institute representing all Nigerians for
Good government Policies in a letter to the Presidency jointly signed by its
Executive Director, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu, Dr. Obi Enweze, Secretary
General, Prof. Frances Onukwuli and Mr. Joseph Iyang, Members of the
Board of Directors, noted that the review of the current cement policies will
effectively address the problem of high cost of housing and also tremendously
help in moving our economy forward.
"Cement is the oxygen that drives the construction
industry and the correlation between Industrialization and Construction; and
their effects on the Local economy can never be over-emphasized.
Consequently, any policy affecting the production of cement, it's supply and
prices has to be sound, progressive, implemented and constantly monitored. To
reflect the Federal Government's much-publicized desire to ensure the growth
of the economy, the current policy on importation and distribution of cement
needs to be reviewed" NPI stated in a letter to the President" the
group noted.
Scarcity of cement due to monopolistic practices, price
gorging, up to 400 per cent above actual cost, insufficient number of
manufactures/Importers, dealers ( monopolistic market), fraudulent
importation practices, abuse of the import duty waivers by Dealers,
inefficient distribution system, poor quality of cement, loss of revenues to
the government, according to the letter are among the problems associated with
the current policy.
According to the letter which was also copied to Dr.
Shamsudeen Usman, Minister of Finance, and his counterpart, Mr. Aderemi
Babalola both of Federal Ministry of Finance, the group noted in its
findings that estimated cost of importing a 50kg bag of Cement into Nigeria is
estimated at N350.00 while the selling price to the Nigerian masses goes for
N1500.00.
This development, according to Prince Asiegbu, the Executive Director negates
the present administration's resolve to make housing affordable for all
Nigerians no matter the income ladder as part of its quest to attain the
Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs).
"Nigeria is the giant of African continent given the abundance of natural
and human resources.
We appeal to the present administration to revisit the current prices of
building materials in the market.
That is one of the ways the country can move forward," Asiegbu who
has been preaching capacity building in socio-economic activities added.
Slowed housing and real estate development, costly or
slowed execution Infrastructural and other cement-required projects, loss of
interest by foreign investors and developers, inflation, loss of revenues to
the country due to abuse of import duty waivers, loss of employment among
others, according to the group are some of the real effects on the economy and
the Nigerian masses, of the current policy.
For Nigeria to have affordable housing scheme as one of the
requirements of the 21st century economy, the Think-Thank group stated
that after in depth analysis of the crises in the Cement industry, "we
are recommending that the President take the following actions to effectively
address the current retrogressive Cement policy.
• Immediate Review and Liberalization of the current Cement Policies
* Eradication of Monopolistic clauses
* Open up the Market and make it competitive
* Eliminate retrogressive and stringent requirements to attract new Investors
* Grant Import Duty Waivers only to Foreigners who have big projects in
Nigeria
*. Compliance is recommended for this set of Investors.
* Reduce the Import Duties on Cement and
Profit margins should be pegged at 10 percent or more
but not to exceed 25 percent.
Nigeria Policy Institute, USA, is a recently established
Think-Thank Group whose core objective is to assist Federal and State
governments in the formulation of sound public policies and/or evaluation of
government policies and proffering better and effective suggestions that will
ensure good governance, progress and unity within our country, Nigeria and
avoid costly and retrogressive trial and error policies.
Business
Day
Sun, 02 Sep 2007 11:52:00
Cement price: Diaspora Nigerians seek FG’s
intervention
Amidst complaints from Nigerians on the exorbitant prices of cement with
other building materials and its repellant effect on foreign investment,
the Nigerian Policy Institute (NPI) has called on the Federal Government
to review its current policies on cement industry.
CHIDIEBERE NWANKWO,Sun, 02 Sep 2007 11:52:00
NPI, a United States- based
non-governmental organisation, said this is to effectively address its
retrogressive effect on the economy and the Nigerian masses.
The institute in a letter to the Presidency jointly signed
by Jimmy Asiegbu, its executive director, Obi Enweze, secretary general,
Frances Onukwuli and Joseph Iyang, members of the Board of Directors,
noted that the review of the current cement policies will effectively
address the problem of high cost of housing and also tremendously help in
moving the Nigerian economy forward.
"Cement is the oxygen that drives the construction
industry and the correlation between industrialisation and construction;
and their effects on the local economy, can never be over-emphasised.
Consequently, any policy affecting the production of
cement, its supply and prices has to be sound, progressive, implemented
and constantly monitored", they said.
To reflect the Federal Government’s much-publicized
desire to ensure the growth of the economy, the current policy on
importation and distribution of cement needs to be reviewed," the
group stated.
According to the letter, among the problems associated
with the current policy are scarcity of cement due to monopolistic
practices, price gorging of up to 400 per cent above actual cost,
insufficient number of manufactures, fraudulent importation practices,
abuse of the import duty waivers by dealers and inefficient distribution
system.
The letter which was also copied to Shamsudeen Usman,
Minister of Finance, and his counterpart, Aderemi Babalola, Minister of
State for Finance, the group noted in its findings that the cost of
importing a 50kg bag of cement into Nigeria is estimated at N350.00 while
the selling price to the Nigerian masses goes for N1500.00.
This development, according to Asiegbu, negates the
present administration’s resolve to make housing affordable for all
Nigerians no matter the income ladder as part of its quest to attain the
Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs).
" Nigeria is the giant of African continent given the
abundance of natural and human resources. We appeal to the present
administration to revisit the current prices of building materials in the
market. That is one of the ways the country can move forward,"
Asiegbu opined.
For Nigeria to have affordable housing scheme as one of
the requirements of the 21st century economy, NPI recommended the
immediate review of the current cement policies, eradication of
monopolistic clauses, grant import duty waivers only to foreigners who
have big projects in Nigeria and peg the profit margins at not more than
25 percent.
THE GUARDIAN
Institute
seeks govt's intervention in high cost of cement
By Sunny Obidigbo, September 5, 2007
THE high cost of cement in Nigeria, among
other building materials, has attracted the concern of Nigerians in Diaspora,
as Nigeria Policy Institute (NPI), a United States-based non-governmental
organisation, urged the Federal Government to review it's current policies on
cement industry to effectively address it's retrogressive effect on the
economy and the Nigerian masses.
The call, according to the institute, is the outcome of complaints from
Nigerians and prospective investors concerning high cost of the commodity in
the country.
The U.S.-based institute, representing all Nigerians for good government
policies in a letter to the Presidency, jointly signed by its Executive
Director, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu; Dr. Obi Enweze, Secretary-General; Prof.
Frances Onukwuli, and Mr. Joseph Iyang, noted that the review of the current
cement policies will effectively address the problem of high cost of housing
and also tremendously help in moving our economy forward.
"Cement is the oxygen that drives the construction industry and the
correlation between industrialisation and construction; and their effects on
the local economy can never be over-emphasised. Consequently, any policy
affecting the production of cement, its supply and prices has to be sound,
progressive, implemented and constantly monitored. To reflect the Federal
Government's much-publicised desire to ensure the growth of the economy, the
current policy on importation and distribution of cement needs to be
reviewed" NPI noted."
The group stated in the letter that scarcity of cement is due to
monopolistic practices, price gorging, up to 400 per cent above actual cost,
insufficient number of manufacturers/importers, dealers, fraudulent
importation practices, abuse of the import duty waivers by dealers,
inefficient distribution system, poor quality of cement, loss of revenues to
the government, are among the problems associated with the current policy.
According to the letter, which was also forwarded to Dr. Shamsudeen Usman,
Minister of Finance, and his counterpart, Mr. Aderemi Babalola, both of
Federal Ministry of Finance, the group stated in its findings that estimated
cost of importing a 50kg bag of cement into Nigeria is at N350.00, while the
selling price to the Nigerian masses goes for N1,500.
This development, according to Prince Asiegbu, negates the present
administration's resolve to make housing affordable for all Nigerians no
matter the income ladder, as part of its quest to attain the Millennium
Development Goals, (MDGs).
"Nigeria is the giant of African continent given the abundance of
natural and human resources. We appeal to the present administration to
revisit the current prices of building materials in the market. That is one of
the ways the country can move forward," Asiegbu, an advocate of capacity
building in socio-economic activities in Nigeria added.
He attributed slowed housing and real estate development, costly or slowed
execution of infrastructural and other cement-required projects, loss of
interest by foreign investors and developers, inflation, loss of revenues to
the country due to abuse of import duty waivers, loss of employment among
others, as the negative effects on the economy and the Nigerian masses of the
current policy.
For Nigeria to have affordable housing scheme as one of the requirements of
the 21st century economy, the group recommended that the President take the
following actions to effectively address the current retrogressive cement
policy:
 | Immediate review and liberalisation of the current cement policies. |
| Eradication of monopolistic clauses. |
| Open-up the market and make it competitive. |
| Eliminate retrogressive and stringent requirements to attract new
investors. |
| Grant import duty waivers only to foreigners who have big projects in
Nigeria. |
| Reduce the import duties on cement and profit margins should be pegged
at 10 per cent or more but not to exceed 25 per cent. |
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Yar’Adua Lifts Ban on Cement
Importation
From Funmi Peter-Omale in Abuja , 01.15.2008
President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua has lifted the ban on the
importation of bagged cement into the country.
The lifting of the ban, according to the government, is with a view to bridging
the deficit of 11.5 million tonnes in the supply of cement, which has been
recurrent in the industry in the last few years.
Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Charles Ugwuh, who announced Federal
Government’s decision in Abuja yesterday at a stakeholders’ meeting,
explained that the President was concerned about the shortage of cement as
against demand in the market.
The annual demand for cement is estimated at about 18 million metric tonnes.
But the annual consumption of cement in the country for last year was estimated
at 11.125 million metric tonnes.
Yesterday’s lifting of the ban on cement importation came on the heels of a
proposal submitted by Ugwuh to President Yar’Adua after the stakeholders
meeting held in October 2007.
At that meeting, government had kicked against the hike in price of cement and
huge deficit in local production and supply of the product.
Addressing the meeting, Ugwuh said: "This meeting is important because it
is called at the instance of the President. In October 2007, I met Mr. President
after the series of meetings I had with you and due consultation with individual
stakeholders. We submitted a proposal to Mr. President indicating the capacity
of the demand in the market place in Nigeria vis a vis real local production
capacity.
“Based on that, we established there is a shortfall with regards to supply and
we requested Mr. President to approve in accordance with the cement policy the
importation of the differential between the market demand and the established
local production capacity.
“Local operators can only supply between 6 and 6.5 million tons of cement
leaving the deficit of 11.5 million tons. It was based on this that the
President now wrote and gave approval and a guideline on what we should do and
what the stakeholders and business group should do in this matter,” he said.
While maintaining that the decision of government was aimed at rejuvenating the
cement industry, the minister also said the move would go a long way to
alleviate the suffering of consumers who pay through their noses for the cement;
stabilize price and supply of cement as well as encourage investors.
Ugwuh also affirmed that the administration was willing to enter into a pact
with the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) to liberalise trade
under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which many European countries
would soon take advantage of.
"In terms of market opening, we do have a tremendous opportunity for all of
you producers in Nigeria mainly because the whole of ECOWAS is indeed and could
indeed depend on Nigeria from Mauritania to Cameroon as far down as Angola given
the speed of expansion taking place in the oil industry in their country and in
the building of infrastructure.
“So the current situation where we are not making adequate investment and
growing the business in the way we should does really encourage the policy
makers, the President of this country as many people are complaining that the
policy is not working,” he said.
Present at the forum were representatives of 13 cement manufacturing companies
in the country. They included Dangote Industries Limited; Lafarge Group, West
African Portland Cement Plc; Flour Mills Nigeria; Ibeto Cement Company and
Eastern Bulkcem Limited. Others include Quacem Cement Company; Essette (Nig)
Limited; Gateway Mining Company Limited; Purehem Industries Limited; Gateway
Portland Cement Limited; Westcom Technologies and Energy Service and
International Cement Company Limited.
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Policy Institute Seeks FG's
Action on Commodity Prices
All Africa Global Media, 2007-09-03
Amidst complaints from Nigerians and prospective
foreign investors concerning the exorbitant prices of cement and other
building materials in the country, the Nigerian Policy Institute (NPI),
a United States based non-governmental organization, has called on the
Federal Government to review it's current Policies on Cement Industry
to effectively address it's retrogressive effect on the economy and
the Nigerian masses.
The U.S. based Institute representing all Nigerians for Good
government Policies in a letter to the Presidency jointly signed by
its Executive Director, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu, Dr. Obi Enweze,
Secretary General, Prof. Frances Onukwuli and Mr. Joseph Iyang,
Members of the Board of Directors, noted that the review of the
current cement policies will effectively address the problem of high
cost of housing and also tremendously help in moving our economy
forward.
"Cement is the oxygen that drives the construction industry
and the correlation between Industrialization and Construction; and
their effects on the Local economy can never be over-emphasized.
Consequently, any policy affecting the production of cement, it's
supply and prices has to be sound, progressive, implemented and
constantly monitored. To reflect the Federal Government's
much-publicized desire to ensure the growth of the economy, the
current policy on importation and distribution of cement needs to be
reviewed" NPI stated in a letter to the President" the group
noted.
Scarcity of cement due to monopolistic practices, price gorging, up
to 400 per cent above actual cost, insufficient number of
manufactures/Importers, dealers ( monopolistic market), fraudulent
importation practices, abuse of the import duty waivers by Dealers,
inefficient distribution system, poor quality of cement, loss of
revenues to the government, according to the letter are among the
problems associated with the current policy.
According to the letter which was also copied to Dr. Shamsudeen
Usman, Minister of Finance, and his counterpart, Mr. Aderemi Babalola
both of Federal Ministry of Finance, the group noted in its findings
that estimated cost of importing a 50kg bag of Cement into Nigeria is
estimated at N350.00 while the selling price to the Nigerian masses
goes for N1500.00.
This development, according to Prince Asiegbu, the Executive
Director negates the present administration's resolve to make housing
affordable for all Nigerians no matter the income ladder as part of
its quest to attain the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs).
"Nigeria is the giant of African continent given the abundance
of natural and human resources.
We appeal to the present administration to revisit the current
prices of building materials in the market.
That is one of the ways the country can move forward," Asiegbu
who has been preaching capacity building in socio-economic activities
added.
Slowed housing and real estate development, costly or slowed
execution Infrastructural and other cement-required projects, loss of
interest by foreign investors and developers, inflation, loss of
revenues to the country due to abuse of import duty waivers, loss of
employment among others, according to the group are some of the real
effects on the economy and the Nigerian masses, of the current policy.
For Nigeria to have affordable housing scheme as one of the
requirements of the 21st century economy, the Think-Thank group stated
that after in depth analysis of the crises in the Cement industry,
"we are recommending that the President take the following
actions to effectively address the current retrogressive Cement
policy.
- Immediate Review and Liberalization of the current Cement
Policies
Eradication of Monopolistic clauses Open up the Market and make it
competitive Eliminate retrogressive and stringent requirements to
attract new Investors Grant Import Duty Waivers only to Foreigners who
have big projects in Nigeria Compliance is recommended for this set of
Investors. Reduce the Import Duties on Cement and
Profit margins should be pegged at 10 percent or more but not to
exceed 25 percent.
Nigeria Policy Institute, USA, is a recently established
Think-Thank Group whose core objective is to assist Federal and State
governments in the formulation of sound public policies and/or
evaluation of government policies and proffering better and effective
suggestions that will ensure good governance, progress and unity
within our country, Nigeria and avoid costly and retrogressive trial
and error policies.
Publication Date: 2007-09-03
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to the legal
terms.
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NPI-USA welcomes the federal government inauguration of the National Think
Thank Committee and what it stands for. The Delta State governor read the minds
of NPI-USA and his speech below says it all.
National Think Tank’s role in anti-graft war
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EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN
Posted to the Web: Sunday, August 19, 2007
Think Tanks usually exist as groups
or centres dedicated to intensive research and offering solutions
to problems. They have the foresight to be proactive, saving
societies from some of the problems that today’s decisions can
create in future.
The work of Think Tank is rigorous
analysis of problems and policy advocacy. No society that truly
wants progress can shut out lively contests of ideas. Some of the
problems we confront, today, sometimes belatedly, as a nation
would have been nipped in the bud. The nation would have been
saved needless political and emotional trauma if there were
vigourous, honest and open participation in seeking solutions to
them. The Niger-Delta is one such example.
It is a crying shame that we
sometimes avoid such open intellectual honesty. I am happy a
National Think Tank has emerged to fill this void. I am even
further thrilled by its mission statement, “To provide high
quality research and education in order to promote a prosperous,
fair and sustainable economy.” I see this as not only
challenging, but worthwhile undertaking. Ideas rule the world;
those who embrace ideas are never behind.
What the National Think Tank set
out to do is not different from what other established Think Tanks
had done. From the US we know of Brookings.
Institute, The Heritage Foundation,
the American Enterprise Institute, and the Chatham House in
Britain. In Nigeria, there is Nigerian Institute of International
Affairs. The National Think Tank emergence has further
increased the over 4,500 Think Tanks across the world. It means
there can be Think Tanks for every human endeavour. Some of these
prestigious institutions are independent, partisan or owned by
government.
In case of the National Think
Tank, it has chosen to be an independent and non-partisan
organisation. This is encouraging and I believe its
non-affiliation would enhance its credibility with the people and
the government to whom it would present some of its ideas.
However, I am troubled by a number
of issues two of which I hope it would become part of
immediate assignments. The first is leadership. The crisis of
Nigeria today is the crisis of leadership. I might be accused of
sounding like Professor Chinua Achebe, who, in his little book,
The Trouble with Nigeria, laid the blame squarely on leadership.
As popular as the book is, with its self-evident truism, I am
concerned that we may have, in trying to deal with the problem of
leadership, created a bifurcated society, a society that yearns
for leadership, but at the same time is deeply distrustful of
leadership. We are deeply suspicious of our leaders and most times
tend to believe the worst about them. This should not be the case.
Yet the challenges of the moment
demand that we give our leaders the needed support. The challenges
of poverty, of unity, of stability, of growth and modernisation
are arduous tasks every leader in political office confronts. He
has to proffer the right mix of policy initiatives to tackle these
challenges. He has to deal with sometimes conflicting and
contradictory pressures in order to propel society ahead.
Amazingly, in the midst of these difficulties, there is the
subsisting cynicism about the real motive of the leader. Nothing
can be more dispiriting. In laying out these concerns, it is my
hope that the National Think Tank would study this malaise that is
stalling the pace of our progress. In making these assertions, I
am mindful of our chequered history of poor leadership with its
legacy of missed dreams and lost opportunities. Our people have
indeed been let down.
Still, with all our lamentations, 1
do not see any alternative to asking for the continued support for
our leaders. To do otherwise would be akin to cutting our nose to
spite our face.
My second concern is on corruption.
There is a national consensus that this scourge, which has eaten
away our national entrails, subverted our national dreams and
stunted our growth, should be kicked out of public life. It is
without doubt a national war and I stand here to commend the
efforts of EFCC and ICPC in keeping to their mandate despite the
odds. Nevertheless, what I find invidious is the criminalisation
of our political leaders, particularly ex-govemors, some of who
are found guilty and convicted in the media. The media lynching
that follows every hint of alleged act of corruption often
obfuscates the facts with no or any wiser to the substance of the
issues. With due process ignore the person in question suffers
double jeopardy. He is unwarrantedly defamed and his reputation
tarnished.
With no immediate remedy, he has to
wait, if he is innocent, for the slowly grinding wheel of justice
to establish his innocence. The danger in these is that for us as
a country, desirous of the right leadership mix, this approach has
the potential of scaring away those who genuinely want to serve,
who fear being tarnished by the overwhelming suspicion that every
public officer is a criminal. Driven by media frenzy, we make
mockery of ourselves in the global community and consequently
traduce the serious business of leadership. Before I am
misunderstood let me make it clear that I am all for interdiction
and sanction, if there is evidence of corruption. On the
other hand, we should reflect very closely at the dangers of our
present approach and how it has become a tool for debasing serious
leadership.
Since the National Think Tank has
set for itself the task of analysing these problems and proffering
solutions, I challenge the Think Tank to look into them and give
us some answers. For us in Delta State, we are open to innovative
ideas, and would partner with you to promote the culture of
intellectual engagement, a culture that is long overdue in our
country.
* Uduaghan, Delta State governor,
delivered this address at the inauguration of five standing
committees of the National Think Tank, held at Sheraton Hotel,
Ikeja last Wednesday
Policy Institute
Boss Tasks Nigerian State on Millenium Goal
November
08.2007
For Anambra
state government to attain the Millennium Development Goals as
specified by the United Nation Organization ( UNO ), a Think
Thank Group, the Nigerian Policy Institute, USA (NPI-USA) has
advised on enactment of progressive and meaningful policies that
will move the state forward economically, socially and
politically.
The Chief Executive Director of the capacity building group,
Prince Jimmy Asiegbu who made this remarks recently during the
2007 6th National Convention of Anambra State Association, (USA)
held in Miami, Florida, United States noted that Anambra state
should engage in those excellent policies that would impact
positively on the well being of the citizens, adding that, the
state should be a leader among all the states in the country.
"Anambra lawmakers, Nigeria Policy Institute, USA wants
good government policies in our State. We applaud you for some
of the changes you have brought to the State. We want the
positive changes to continue. We shall be knocking on your doors
when we witness policies or actions that go against our
goals" he said.
Some policies that affect the lives and well-being of our
people, he said need to be publicized to create awareness and
enable people obey them. "Our core objective is to aid the
Nigerian government at the local, State, and federal levels in
reviewing, recommending, making, and implementing policies that
are sound and progressive to our people" Asiegbu, added.
The NPI spokesman who is also the founder of ASA-USA, and
has been in the vanguard of advocating for good governance,
unity, peace and progress in the state through government’s
formulation and implementation of good, effective, sound and
progressive policies and legislations noted that there was need
for the state to embrace sustainable policies to take the state
to the next level.
"Our recent recommendations and actions on "The Price
and Scarcity of Cement and Building Materials" were
received very well by the Federal government and the respective
ministries. So, I am here to speak to you on Policy Matters as
it affects our State, Anambra and most other States in
Nigeria" he explained..
He lamented that Anambra state has in the recent past received a
litany of bad press as a result of numerous distractions, adding
that the government has made tremendous efforts in the State.
"But unfortunately, none of these laudable efforts make
national news, rather what we constantly read is about political
battles and wars. It is time for the state to go back to what it
does best, formulating excellent policies and being a leader
among all the States in Nigeria " he said.
While urging a
united front between the legislature and the Executive, Prince
Asiegbu called on Governor Peter Obi to embark on speedy
execution of his good programmes for the State and to avoid the
numerous distractions that seem to take control of Anambra
affairs. ”I like the governor’s programmes for the State and
he should focus on executing them speedily than allowing the
distractions get to him, and ensure that there is unity within
the governing bodies in the State. At the end, Anambra masses
want to see what you have accomplished and not the battles you
waged” – Asiegbu added
In_depth analyses of some of the policies enacted by our state
government and legislators, according to him, have not been well
formulated and some have not effectively addressed the issues
for which they were formulated.
"While some of the policies have not advanced the cause of
ordinary citizens and residents of the state, still some other
policies are anti_progress, anti_unity, selfish and
retrogressive to the economy of our state and the social welfare
of our people. Some are self-centered, unimplementable, and
full of loopholes for violators to abuse, and have no monitoring
system in place to check its effectiveness. Most of these
policies lack the tools for implementation or prosecution of
violators" the NPI said.
Policies that
are made to unduly and undeservedly reward certain persons who
may have engaged in untoward acts against the people of the
State, or those policies that give undue advantage to certain
groups of people, noted, should be completely avoided.
NPI-USA advises Anambra on progressive policies
November 12, 2007
A think-tank group, the
Nigerian Policy Institute (NPI) based in the United States (NPI-USA),
has advised the Anambra State government to
ensure enactment of progressive and
meaningful policies so as to make the Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs) attainable in the state.
NPI-US also said that meaningful
policies would engender forward-looking socio-economic and
stable political environment in the state.
The Executive Director, NPI-USA,
Prince Jimmy Asiegbu, while speaking at the just concluded 6th
national convention of Anambra State
Association in US, held in Miami,
Florida, he noted that Anambra state should engage in those
excellent policies that would impact positively
on the well being of the citizenry,
stressing that, the state should be a leader among all the
states in the country.
While applauding the state lawmakers
and executive over recent changes in Anambra State, which he
described as positive,
Prince Asiegbu pointed out that NPI
wants good government policies to sustain development."We
want the positive changes to continue
and we shall be knocking on your
doors when we witness policies or actions that go against our
goals," he said.
According to him, some policies that
affect the lives and well-being of the people, need to be
publicized to create awareness and enable
people obey them.
"Our core objective is to aid
the Nigerian government at the local, state, and federal levels
in reviewing, recommending, making, and
implementing policies that are sound
and progressive to our people" Asiegbu said.
In addition, the group advocated for
good governance, unity, peace and progress in the state through
government’s formulation and
implementation of good, effective,
sound and progressive policies and legislations.
Group urges FG, Anambra on MDGs targets
By FEMI SALAWU
Thursday, November 15, 2007
For Nigeria, especially,
Anambra State government to attain the Millennium Development
Goals as specified by the United Nations Organization (UNO), a
think thank group, the Nigerian Policy Institute, USA (NPI-USA)
has advised on enactment of progressive and meaningful
policies that will move the state forward economically,
socially and politically.
The Executive Director of the capacity building group, Prince
Jimmy Asiegbu, who made this remarks recently during the 6th
National Convention of Anambra State Association, (USA) held
in Miami, Florida, United States, noted that Anambra State
should engage in those excellent policies that would impact
positively on the well being of the citizens, adding that, the
state should be a leader among all the states in the country.
"Anambra lawmakers, Nigeria Policy Institute, USA wants
good government policies in our state. We applaud you for some
of the changes you have brought to the state. We want the
positive changes to continue. We shall be knocking on your
doors when we witness policies or actions that go against our
goals," he said.
Some policies that affect the
lives and well-being of our people, he said need to be
publicized to create awareness and enable people obey them.
"Our core objective is to aid the Nigerian government at
the local, state, and federal levels in reviewing,
recommending, making, and implementing policies that are sound
and progressive to our people," Asiegbu added.
The NPI spokesman who is also the founder of ASA-USA and has
been in the vanguard of advocating for good governance, unity,
peace and progress in the state through government’s
formulation and implementation of good, effective, sound and
progressive policies and legislations noted that there was
need for the state to embrace sustainable policies to take the
state to the next level.
"Our recent
recommendations and actions on the Price and Scarcity of
Cement and Building materials were received very well by the
federal government and the respective ministries. So, I am
here to speak to you on policy matters as it affects our
state, Anambra and most other states in Nigeria," he
explained..
He lamented that Anambra State has in the recent past received
a litany of bad press as a result of numerous distractions,
adding that the government has made tremendous efforts in the
state.
"But unfortunately, none of these laudable efforts make
national news, rather what we constantly read is about
political battles and wars. It is time for the state to go
back to what it does best, formulating excellent policies and
being a leader among all the states in Nigeria" he said.
While urging a united front between the legislature and the
executive, Asiegbu called on Governor Peter Obi to embark on
speedy execution of his good programmes for the state and to
avoid the numerous distractions that seem to take control of
Anambra affairs. "I like the governor’s programmes for
the state and he should focus on executing them speedily than
allowing the distractions get to him, and ensure that there is
unity within the governing bodies in the state. At the end,
Anambra masses want to see what you have accomplished and not
the battles you waged" – Asiegbu added.
| Asiegbu tasks
Anambra govt on policies |
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| Friday, 16
November 2007 |
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For Nigeria, especially,Anambra State government to
attain the Millennium Development Goals as specified by
the United Nation Organization (UNO), a Think Thank
Group, the Nigerian Policy Institute, USA (NPI-USA) has
advised on enactment of progressive and meaningful
policies that will move the state forward economically,
socially and politically. The Chief Executive Director
of the capacity building group, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu who
made this remarks recently during the 2007 6th National
Convention of Anambra State Association, (USA) held in
Miami, Florida, United States noted that Anambra State
should engage in those excellent policies that would
impact positively on the well- being of the citizens,
adding that, the state should be a leader among all the
states in the country.
“Anambra lawmakers, Nigeria Policy Institute, USA
wants good government policies in our state. We applaud
you for some of the changes you have brought to the
state. We want the positive changes to continue.
We shall be knocking on your doors when we witness
policies or actions that go against our goals” he
said.
Some policies that affect the lives and well-being of
our people, he said need to be publicized to create
awareness and enable people obey them. “Our core
objective is to aid the Nigerian government at the
local, State, and federal levels in reviewing,
recommending, making, and implementing policies that are
sound and progressive to our people” Asiegbu, added.
The NPI spokesman who is also the founder of ASA-USA,
and has been in the vanguard of advocating for good
governance, unity, peace and progress in the state
through government’s formulation and implementation of
good, effective, sound and progressive policies and
legislations noted that there was need for the state to
embrace sustainable policies to take the state to the
next level.
“Our recent recommendations and actions on “The
Price and Scarcity of Cement and Building Materials”
were received very well by the Federal government and
the respective ministries. So, I am here to speak to you
on Policy Matters as it affects our State, Anambra and
most other States in Nigeria” he explained..
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US-Based Nigeria Institute
Applauds Yar’Adua
02.22.2008
The United States based Nigeria Policy Insitute (NPI) has
applauded President Umaru Musa Yar' Adua's administration on the policies he has
pursued to date since coming to office with particular emphasis on his belief in
the rule of law, lending his ears to the cries and sufferings of the masses,
being open to good and progressive suggestions in effecting policies that
will unite and move our country forward economically and socially.
The research and NGO group which awarded itself the mandate of supporting good
governance in Nigeria threw her weight behind the Presidency for his crusade and
dedication to ensure that the maintenance of the Rule of Law takes
precedence in his administration.
NPI is also pleased with the President's pronouncements and actions taken
so far especially in his continuation of the Anti-corruption crusade with
Due Process, and his endorsement for the removal of the Immunity Clause against
some categorized public office holders from Nigerian Constitution.
The group, in a communique signed by its Executive Director, Prince Jimmy
Asiegbu, The general Secretary, Barrister Obi Enweze and a Member of
the Board, Dr. Chika Duru also commended the Presidency for reacting
positively on the group's findings and recommendations on the Cement Industry,
and for setting up a panel that would monitor the performance of ministers with
a view to ensuring their compliance with the seven-_point agenda of the present
administration.
According to the Think _Tank group which successfully drew the
attention of the presidency on the review of cement price and lifting of ban on
importation of the product, the crusade against corruption by President Yar'
Adua's and his support for the Rule of Law would go a long way in
redeeming the image of the country before the International community, adding
that the removal of immunity clause could also go a long way in strengthening
the anti-corruption agencies in the war against corruption, noting that
Nigeria may not achieve the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs) as spelt out by
the United Nations Organization , (UNO) unless the problem of corruption is
nipped in the bud.
"The present administration's effort in restoring sanity to the
barest minimum needs to be commended. It is a step in the right direction. The
removal of immunity clause needs to be commended. Corruption has been the
bane of development in Nigeria . Yar' Adua's good intention for the
country needs to be imbibed by all governors, and those in the leadership
positions including our traditional Rulers. It will lead to transparency and
accountability and will make living more tolerable for all Nigerians. We will
continue to help Nigeria in formulation of good policies that will take the
country to the next level," Asiegbu, whose crusade for good governance
started with his formation of ASA-USA, (the umbrella association of
Anambra indigenes in United States ) stated in a telephone interview.
While supporting the President and the Attorney-General on good policies and
adherence to the maintenance of Rule of Law and upholding the constitution of
the country, the group noted with optimism that the proposed removal of immunity
clause from the Constitution would stop corrupt leaders from plundering the
country's resources.
In a letter dispatched to the Presidency, copied to the appropriate Ministries,
Nigeria Policy Institute, USA alerted the Presidency that they are investigating
the Violations of the CBN's Banking and Lending Policies and charges by some
Nigerian Banks as a result of complaints sent to their office from
Nigerians and Foreigners who alleged that their banks have engaged in illegal
charges and debits on their accounts ranging in billion of Naira. NPI-USA'ss
Executive Director, Prince Jimmy Asiegbu would like the CBN governor,
Prof. Charles Soludo and the Minister of Finance to look into these damaging
allegations and violations by these greedy banks and fix them before our
findings are made public. What we have found so far, and what we have read from
the media and our contacts are very damaging to the banking industry and calls
for serious penalty against the banks that take advantage of the unsuspecting
and poor Nigerians who have trusted the Banks in their mutual transactions.
The Institute equally notified the Presidency of their upcoming evaluation of
the current Policy on the current 8 year age limit on vehicles imported
into the country as the current policy has not effectively achieved it's purpose
and has caused the Country to loose billions of naira revenues to our
neighboring countries. "Our full recommendation on the need to revise the
policy with improved recommendations will be made public and communicated to the
appropriate ministries."
NPI-USA is also pleased with the Presidents focus on solving the Electricity
problems of the country and welcomes his effort to work with GE (General
Electric), a U.S. company whose reputation in this industry is undisputable.
" Mr. President means well for Nigeria , in fact, he may even be the Real
God sent leader that Nigeria has being yelling for.
I like his openness and willingness to do good for the country. To achieve
the economic progress that the Country seriously needs now, Mr. President must
focus on solving the Nigeria 's Energy problem. No country can develop and solve
its massive socio and economic development problems without attracting foreign
investments; and you can count how many foreign Companies that will be willing
to make investment in a country that has no reliable supply of electricity. Even
our citizens living abroad find it unattractive in taking that step,
Asiegbu stated in an interview.
It will be recalled that the Nigeria Policy Institute was established recently
with the core objective of assisting Federal and state governments in the
formulation of sound public policies and/or evaluation of government policies
and proffering better and effective suggestions that will ensure good
governance, progress and unity within Nigeria and avoid costly and retrogressive
trial and error policies.
According to the group, "NPI, from time to time looks at government
policies on issues, evaluates these policies, researches on it's goals,
evaluates the effects, weighs it's benefit or adverse effect on the economy in
general and the masses in particular; and makes its findings known to the
appropriate organ of the government and agencies as well as the public.
Our findings will always include proffered suggestions
especially in situations where such government policies are retrogressive to the
Nigerian masses and the economy."
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NPI supports Yar’Adua’s policies
-Vanguard
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Thursday, 21 February 2008
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A Think-tank group committed to good governance in the Nigerian
Polity, the Nigerian Policy Institute, (NPI) USA has applauded President
Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration on the policies he has pursued
to date since coming to office with particular emphasis on his belief in
the Rule of Law, lending his ears to the cries and sufferings of the
masses, being open to good and progressive suggestions in effecting
policies that will unite and move our country forward economically and
socially.
The US-based non-governmental Institute representing all Nigerians for
good governance in a communique after its general meeting in the
United States of America, while throwing her weight behind the
Presidency for his crusade and dedication to ensure that the
maintenance of the Rule of Law takes precedence in his administration,
is also pleased with the President’s pronouncements and actions
taken so far especially in his continuation of the anti-corruption
crusade with Due Process, and his endorsement for the removal of the
Immunity Clause against some categorized public office holders from
Nigerian Constitution.
The group, which has been in the vanguard for good governance in the
communique signed by its Director, Jimmy Asiegbu, scribe,
Barister Enweze and Board member, Dr. Chika Duru
commended the Presidency for reacting positively on the group’s
findings and recommendations on the Cement Industry and for setting up
a panel to monitor the performance of ministers.
With a view to ensuring their compliance with the seven-_point agenda
of the present administration. According to the Think _Tank group
which successfully drew the attention of the presidency on the
review of cement price and lifting of ban on importation of the
product, the crusade against corruption by President Yar’ Adua’s
and his support for the Rule of Law would go a long way in redeeming
the image of the country before the International community, adding
that the removal of immunity clause could also go a long way in
strengthening the anti-corruption agencies in the war against
corruption, noting that Nigeria may not achieve the Millennium
Development Goals, (MDGs) as spelt out by the United Nations
Organization , (UNO) unless the problem of corruption is nipped in the
bud.
“The present administration’s effort in restoring sanity to
the barest minimum needs to be commended. It is a step in the right
direction. The removal of immunity clause needs to be commended.
Corruption has been the bane of development in Nigeria. Yar’
Adua’s good intention for the country needs to be imbibed by
all governors, and those in the leadership positions including our
traditional Rulers.
It will lead to transparency and accountability and will make
living more tolerable for all Nigerians. We will continue to help
Nigeria in formulation of good policies that will take the country to
the next level,” Asiegbu, whose crusade for good governance started
with his formation of ASA-USA, (the umbrella association of
Anambra indigenes in United States) stated in a telephone interview.
While supporting the President and the Attorney-General on good
policies and adherence to the maintenance of Rule of Law and upholding
the constitution of the country, the group noted with optimism that
the proposed removal of immunity clause from the Constitution would
stop corrupt leaders from plundering the country’s resources.
The Institute equally notified the Presidency of their upcoming
evaluation of the current Policy on the current 8 year age limit
on vehicles imported into the country as the current policy has not
effectively achieved its purpose and has caused the Country to loose
billions of naira revenues to our neighboring countries. Our full
recommendation on the need to revise the policy with improved
recommendations will be made public and communicated to the
appropriate ministries.
NPI-USA is also pleased with the Presidents focus on solving the
Electricity problems of the country and welcomes his effort to work
with GE (General Electric), a U.S. company whose reputation in
this industry is undisputable. “ Mr. President means well for
Nigeria, in fact, he may even be the Real God sent leader that Nigeria
has being yelling for. I like his openness and willingness to do good.
NPI warns banks on illegal charges
Remmy NWEKE, February 25, 2008
United States-based non-governmental
organisation (NGO), the Nigerian Policy Institute (NPI), has
warned banks in the country over illegal charges, just as they
commended the federal government under the leadership of Alhaji
Umaru Musa Yar’Adua on its policies since assuming office in May
last year.
Speaking at the end of the general
meeting of NPI board, the group through its Executive Director,
Prince Jimmy Asiegbu, general secretary, Barrister Obi Enweze and
board member, Dr. Chika Duru, cautioned Nigerian banks over what
they described as illegal charges, which could have a multiple
effect on the economy and common man.
NPI also said that its office has been
overwhelmed with complaints both from Nigerians and foreigners
over alleged illegal charges by Nigerian banks.
This, NPI said is contrary to the
provision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act on Banking and
Lending Policies, adding that this illegal charges are ranging
into billions of Naira.
The group further said that it has
since dispatched a letter to the presidency and copied the
appropriate ministries in the country including CBN, insisting
that illegal charges mainly on debits stands in violation of the
CBN Act and the law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Executive Director, NPI, Prince
Asiegbu tasked the CBN governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and the
Minister of Finance to urgently look into these damaging
allegations and violations by some greedy banks and find a lasting
solution before NPI makes its findings public.
"What we have found so far, and
what we have read from the media and our contacts are very
damaging to the banking industry and calls for serious penalty
against the banks that take advantage of the unsuspecting and poor
Nigerians who have trusted them in their mutual
transactions," he warned.
Equally, he said, the Institute
notified the Presidency of their upcoming evaluation of the
current policy on the current eight years age limit on vehicles
imported into the country as the current policy has not
effectively achieved its purpose.
On the contrary, NPI pointed out that
it has caused the country to loose billions of Naira revenues to
her neighbouring countries.
They assured that their full
recommendation on the need to revise the policy with improved
recommendations would be made public and communicated to the
appropriate ministries.
Even as NPI-USA said its pleased with
the President’s focus on solving the electricity challenges of
the country and welcomed his effort to work with a US-based
General Electric (GE), whose reputation is undisputable.
"Mr. President means well for
Nigeria, in fact, he may even be the real God’s sent leader that
Nigeria has been yelling for. I like his openness and willingness
to do good for the country. To achieve the economic progress that
the country seriously needs now," Prince Asiegbu said.
He further enjoined President
Yar’Adua to remain focused on solving the Nigeria’s energy
crisis, stressing that no country could develop and solve its
massive socio and economic development problems without attracting
foreign investments.
"Even our citizens living abroad
find it unattractive in taking that step," Asiegbu declared.
NPI, he noted, was established with
the core objective of assisting government at all levels in the
country in formulation of sound public policies and evaluation of
government policies and proffering better and effective
suggestions that will ensure good governance, progress and unity
within Nigeria and avoid costly and retrogressive trial and error
policies.
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Friday, 20 March 2009 Friday,
20 March 2009
Prepare For Elections, Asiegbu Advises Aguata-Orumba Community
Ahead of 2010 general elections, the Executive Director of Nigeria
Policy Institute (NPI), a U.S.-based Think Tank Entity for good
governance, Chief Jimmy Emmanuel Asiegbu, has called on Aguata-Orumba
indigenes in Anambra State to prepare for the forthcoming gubernatorial
elections by engaging in early registration of all eligible voters.
Asiegbu, who was the founder and immediate past President of Anambra
State Association (ASA-USA) in the United States, the founder of the
worldwide Internet Anambraforum and a board member of Aguata-Orumba
Union, USA, made the appeal in Los Angeles, U.S.
He urged the zone to realise its voting power and be ready to use it
wisely at the governorship and future elections in the state.
While condemning the total neglect of the communities in the
development agenda of Anambra State, he urged the indigenes to use their
votes to negotiate and determine who wins the gubernatorial elections in
2010.
His words: "Aguata/Orumba communities should use their votes to
negotiate developments in the zone and change any further marginalisation
of the zone by any government in Anambra State.
"The people of Aguata/Orumba community should realize that the
region comprises of three big local governments, 1/3 of Anambra State land
mass and 1/3 of Anambra State's population. Use your votes to ensure that
your entitlements and allocations from the Federal and State governments
are used equitably to develop the zone.
"Just as successive Anambra State governments have concentrated
development in Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi, Aguata-Orumba regions being 1/3 of
Anambra State in population and land mass is yet to have any of its cities
developed. One will expect the governments at Awka to realise that there
must be equity and fairness in using our state funds in developmental
policies, and the zone needs to have one of its cities developed
accordingly.
"It is time that Aguata-Orumba indigenes realise that their size
in land and population as in 1/3 of Anambra State require for them to
demand equal and fair developmental policies from our governments.
" The unity of OAU should continue to exist and should be used to
the advantage of the zone. All hands must be on deck to maintain this
unity. There have been concerted efforts by some politicians to use the
divide and conquer tactics to destabilise this unity; this plot we should
not allow to succeed. Likewise, we should not allow anyone to be used as
an escape goat to cause disunity among our people."
Asiegbu, who has been preaching capacity building in the Nigerian
society, said since politics is a game of number, the zone has the numbers
to make a big difference in the politics of Anambra State and Nigeria.
NPI Director Tasks Community on 2010 Polls
03.17.2009
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Ahead of 2010 general elections, the Executive Director of Nigeria
Policy Institute, NPI, a US based Think Tank group for good governance,
Chief Jimmy Asiegbu,, has called on the Aguata-Orumba indigenes in Anambra
State to prepare for the upcoming Gubernatorial Elections by engaging in
early Voter registration exercises of all eligible voters.
Asiegbu, who was the founder and immediate past President of
Anambra State Association, ASA-USA in the United States, the founder of
the worldwide internet Anambraforum and a board member of Aguata-Orumba
Union, USA, while addressing newsmen in a World Press conference held in
Los Angeles last week called on the zone to realize their Voting power and
be ready to use it wisely at the upcoming governorship and future
elections.
While condemning the total neglect of the Communities in the
development agenda of Anambra State, he urged the indigenes to prepare to
use their votes to negotiate or determine who wins the gubernatorial
elections in 2010, adding that the Aguata/Orumba Communities should use
their votes to negotiate developments in the zone and change any further
marginalization of the zone by any government in Anambra State.
"The people of Aguata/Orumba community should realize that the
region comprises of 3 big local governments, 1/3 of Anambra State land
mass and 1/3 of Anambra State’s population. Use your votes to ensure
that your entitlements and allocations from the Federal and State
governments are used equitably to develop the zone.
" Just as successive Anambra State governments have concentrated
development in Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi, Aguata-Orumba regions being 1/3 of
Anambra State in population and land mass is yet to have any of it's
Cities developed. One will expect the governments at Awka to realize that
there must be equity and fairness in using our State Funds in
developmental policies, and the zone needs to have one of it's Cities
developed accordingly.
" It is time that Aguata-Orumba indigenes realize that their size
in land and population as in 1/3 of Anambra State requires for them to
demand equal and fair developmental policies from our governments. "
The unity of OAU should continue to exist and should be used to the
advantage of the Zone. All hands must be on deck to maintain on this
unity. There has been concerted efforts by some politicians to use the
Divide and Conquer tactics to destabilize this Unity, this plot we should
not allow to succeed. Likewise, we should not allow anyone to be used as
an escape goat to cause disunity amongst our people"
Asiegbu who has been preaching for capacity building in the
Nigerian society added. According to him, since politics is a game of
number, the Zone has the numbers to make a big difference in the politics
of Anambra State and Nigeria. It is time to plan ahead, he said. "I
am calling on all the town union presidents and the Igwes to be part of
this mobilization exercise. "Please don’t misunderstand me, I am
not being divisive or sectional here, all Anambrarians should participate
in Early Voter Registration exercises if they want their votes to count.
There is hope that the upcoming election will be free and fair".
When asked whether he feels the Gov. Obi is marginalizing the Region,
he responded "Governor Obi is doing well, howbeit sometimes
discriminatory or ill-advised on prioritizing development; for example, my
town, Ezinifite and others alike, EkwuluMmiri are yet to have their major
access road from Ekwulobia reconstructed while 30 roads are being built at
Nnewi Town alone with our collective funds. Is it fair?" In another
development, Aguata-Orumba USA has concluded plans to have their 2009
Annual Conventions in Nigeria to help sensitize and mobilize their people
for the upcoming gubernatorial election.. Please prepare to be part of it,
he added. .
How
To End Kidnapping, Robbery In South East -U.S. Group
By Valentine Amanze, Regional Editor
Federal and state governments have been urged
to pay more attention to the rising cases of kidnapping and armed
robbery in the country, particularly in South East.
Executive Director of Nigeria Policy Institute,
USA, Chief Jimmy Asiegbu and Secretary, Mr. Obi Enweze, J.D, gave
the advice in a statement.
Asiegbo pointed out that kidnapping and demand
of huge ransom had become a lucrative means of becoming
millionaires for the jobless and displaced youths, while asking
the government to find a permanent solution to crime.
He warned, "The ramifications of not
taking serious actions against the crime will be devastating to
the economy, as it would result of lack of investment and growth
of all sectors of our economy.
"No state or nation can prosper in the
absence of security of lives and property. In fact, Nigeria Policy
Institute, USA have been bombarded with complaints from the
international communities and companies, who have business in some
states such as Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and Bayelsa.
"International humanitarian organisations
and Nigerians groups and communities have also stated that they
will suspend visiting the country as a result of kidnapping and
armed robbery targeted at foreigners and those Nigerians resident
in United States and Canada.
"Consequently, we call on each state and
the nation to, in addition to the existing security measures in
our states and National Constitution, to consider the following
effective security proposals that have worked tremendously in
curtailing crimes in civilized societies such as U.S.A, Europe and
Asia. We make these proposals bearing in mind that Nigeria does
not have a state and federal policing system as in USA.''
The group proposed:
* Each state should recruit, train, mobilize
and equip uniformed vigilante groups and empower them to make
arrests of the criminals, hand them over to the police, and ensure
that the culprits are prosecuted.
*Each state governor and legislators should
appoint a Crime Czar for each local government, whose duties will
include instituting an effective security structure for monitoring
of suspected criminals and stopping them before they act. These
crime chiefs should meet frequently to evaluate successes and
failures, share information on ways to improve the safety of the
people.
*Effective check points should be re-instated
at strategic locations to monitor vehicular movements of buses,
SUV, vans carrying more than five persons; and effective Alert
System put in place against suspected movements.
*All financial institutions should be mandated
to install 24-hour hidden cameras at their locations, inside and
outside the buildings. For those states that have street lights,
hidden cameras should be installed at strategic locations. Rich
people should install hidden cameras in their houses and their
cars. Most of these cameras are solar powered.
*All the Nigeria telecommunication companies
should be mandated to have the "Family Locator" Chips or
"Phone number (blocked and unblocked) locator chips" in
their system, to enable the tracing of all calls to the victim's
family.
*The Death Penalty Law and property seizure
laws should be openly and publicly carried out on all convicts. A
great rewarding incentive should be in place for those who
successfully lead to apprehension of the criminals.
*Use of marked money in the payment of the
ransom demands should always be used, and all banks accepting cash
deposits exceeding certain amount should be mandated to file a
report with EFCC for the record.
*Community Vigilante Groups should be mandated
through their leaders to frequently monitor the movement of
persons in and around unusual places, bushes and thick forests,
uncompleted and abandoned buildings in their areas.
* Police officers, community leaders or
politicians who are found to be aiding and abating this crime
should be exposed and fully prosecuted to the extent of the law.
*The root cause of this high crime wave in
South East Nigeria, especially in Anambra State, is the long
neglect of the unemployed youths and former MASSOB youths and
displaced motor park touts. Consequently, we are calling on all
the South East governors and the federal government of Nigeria to
make it a priority to create employment opportunities for our
youths through avenues such as building or facilitation of the
building of Job creating ventures. ventures, industries and
facilities that will employ thousands of youths across the States.
In USA, we have chain stores such as Walmats, Macys, JC Penny,
Sears, manufacturing Industries, Farm outlets, that are known to
create thousands of jobs.
Outsourcing or providing highly skilled but
cheap Nigeria Labour and Tax incentives to the international
companies manufacturing businesses such as being done by India,
Indonesia, China should be seriously embarked on.
"We equally believe that provision of uninterrupted energy
supply can eradicate majority of these crimes. While we are aware
that some of these proposals will no doubt be capital intensive,
we do believe that the allotted security funds should sufficiently
address it. Safety is an important constant factor for
socio-economic growth of a any economy, and for our economy to
growth, all factors must be in place,'' the group stated.
|
US Based Policy
Institute Proffers Solution to Kidnapping, Robbery
07.03.2009
The Executive Director of United States based Nigeria Policy
Institute (NPI), Jimmy Emmanuel Asiegbu has decried the rampant
kidnapping and armed robbery within the country and called on both
state and federal governments to pay priority attention to ugly
development particularly in Southeast part of the country.
“Kidnapping and demand for huge ransom of millions of Naira has
become a lucrative and fast means of becoming millionaire for
jobless and displaced youths, saying that there was need to
checkmate the ugly tread from spreading to every part of the
country.”
He said in a press statement. According to him, NPI is calling on
all the Southeast Governors and the federal government of Nigeria to
make it a priority to create employment opportunities for our youths
through facilitation of the building of Job creating ventures and
industries that will employ thousands of youths across the States.
The root cause of this high crime wave in Southeast Nigeria,
especially in Anambra State, he said is the long neglect of the
unemployed youths and former Massob youths and displaced motor park
touts.
According to Asiegbu who has been in the forefront for a
better Igbo states, the death penalty law and property seizure laws
should be openly and publicly carried out on all convicts, adding
that a great rewarding incentive should be in place for those who
successfully give information that lead to apprehension of
criminals. “In fact, Nigeria Policy Institute, USA have been
bombarded with complaints from the International Communities and
Companies who have business dealings in some states such as Anambra,
Enugu, Imo, and Bayelsia.
International Humanitarian Organizations and Nigerians groups and
Communities have also stated that they will suspend visiting the
country as a result of the daily reported menace and incidents of
kidnapping and armed robbery targeted at foreigners, their relatives
and those Nigerians living abroad especially United States and
Canada “Consequently, we call on each State governor and the
Federal government to, in addition to the existing security measures
in our State’s and National Constitutions, to consider the
following effective Security Proposals that have worked tremendously
in curtailing crimes in civilized countries such as U.S.A, Europe
and Asian Countries” he said. While advising the government of the
country to engage the youths in software development for challenges
ahead proposed the following as a bail out option:
Each Nigerian State should recruit, train, mobilize and equip
uniformed Vigilante groups and empower them to make arrests of the
criminals, turn them in to the police, and ensure that the culprits
are prosecuted to the extent the Law permits. Each State Governor
and House members should appoint a Crime Czar for each local
government whose duties will include instituting an effective
Security Structure for monitoring of suspected criminals and
stopping them before they act. These Crime Chiefs should meet
frequently to evaluate successes and failures, share information on
ways to improve the safety of the people.
For those states that have Street Lights, Hidden Cameras should be
installed at strategic locations. Rich people should install hidden
cameras in their houses and their cars. Most of these cameras are
solar powered. All the Nigeria Telecommunication Companies should be
mandated to have the “Family Locator” Chips or “Phone number
(blocked and unblocked) locator chips” in their system, to enable
the tracing of all calls to the victim’s family. Use of marked
money in the payment of the ransom demands should always be used.
Outsourcing or providing highly skilled but cheap Nigeria
Labor and Tax incentives to the International Companies
manufacturing businesses such as being done by India, Indonesia,
China should be seriously embarked on. While believing that
provision of uninterrupted energy supply can eradicate majority of
these crimes, Asiegbu who is very passionate about youth empowerment
noted that some of these proposals will no doubt be capital
intensive. “We do believe that security funds should sufficiently
address it. Safety is an important constant factor for
Socio-Economic growth of any Economy,” he added.
US base NPI proposes solutions
on kidnapping, armed robbery in Nigeria
National
News Jul 2, 2009
By Emeka Aginam, Asst. Online Editor
The Executive Director of Nigeria
Policy Institute, USA, Jimmy Emmanuel Asiegbu
has called on both state and federal governments
to pay priority attention to the recent
rampant kidnapping and armed robbery incidents in the
country, particularly in Southeast part of the
country.
Kidnapping and demand for huge ransom of
millions of Naira, he said has become a
lucrative and fast means of becoming millionaire for
jobless and displaced youths, saying that there was
need to checkmate the ugly tread from spreading
to every part of the country.
According to him, NPI is calling on all the
Southeast Governors and the federal government of
Nigeria to make it a priority to create employment
opportunities for our youths through
facilitation of the building of Job creating ventures
and industries that will employ thousands of youths
across the States.
The root cause of this high crime wave in Southeast
Nigeria, especially in Anambra State, he said is
the long neglect of the unemployed youths and former
Massob youths and displaced motor park touts.
According to Asiegbu who has been in the forefront for
a better Igbo states, the death penalty law and
property seizure laws should be openly and publicly
carried out on all convicts, adding that a great
rewarding incentive should be in place for those who
successfully give information that lead to
apprehension of criminals.
“In fact, Nigeria Policy Institute, USA have been
bombarded with complaints from the International
Communities and Companies who have business dealings
in some states such as Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and
Bayelsia. International Humanitarian Organizations and
Nigerians groups and Communities have also stated that
they will suspend visiting the country as a result of
the daily reported menace and incidents of kidnapping
and armed robbery targeted at foreigners, their
relatives and those Nigerians living abroad especially
United States and Canada
“Consequently, we call on each State governor and
the Federal government to, in addition to the existing
security measures in our State’s and National
Constitutions, to consider the following effective
Security Proposals that have worked tremendously in
curtailing crimes in civilized countries such as U.S.A,
Europe and Asian Countries” he said.
While advising the government of the country to engage
the youths in software development for challenges
ahead proposed the following as a bail out
option:
Each Nigerian State should recruit, train, mobilize
and equip uniformed Vigilante groups and empower them
to make arrests of the criminals, turn them in to the
police, and ensure that the culprits are prosecuted to
the extent the Law permits. Each State Governor and
House members should appoint a Crime Czar for each
local government whose duties will include instituting
an effective Security Structure for monitoring of
suspected criminals and stopping them before they act.
These Crime Chiefs should meet frequently to evaluate
successes and failures, share information on ways to
improve the safety of the people.
For those states that have Street Lights, Hidden
Cameras should be installed at strategic locations.
Rich people should install hidden cameras in their
houses and their cars. Most of these cameras are solar
powered.
All the Nigeria Telecommunication Companies should
be mandated to have the “Family Locator” Chips or
“Phone number (blocked and unblocked) locator
chips” in their system, to enable the tracing of all
calls to the victim’s family. Use of marked money in
the payment of the ransom demands should always be
used.
Outsourcing or providing highly skilled but
cheap Nigeria Labor and Tax incentives to the
International Companies manufacturing businesses such
as being done by India, Indonesia, China should be
seriously embarked on.
While believing that provision of
uninterrupted energy supply can eradicate majority of
these crimes, Asieggu who is very passionate about
youth empowerment noted that some of these
proposals will no doubt be capital intensive. “We do
believe that security funds should sufficiently
address it. Safety is an important constant factor for
Socio-Economic growth of any Economy,” he added.
NPI-USA condemns Obi on illegal use of Care-taker Committee
The Executive Director of Nigeria Policy Institute, USA known for it’s
good governance advocacy, Chief Jimmy Emmanuel Asiegbu has called on the
governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi and his
Commissioner, Dubem Obaze to desist from unnecessary and illegal intrusion
into the administrative affairs of Anambra State autonomous Communities
without being duly invited by the Town’s Constituted Authorities.
This is contained in a Press release signed by the Executive Director,
Chief Jimmy Emmanuel Asiegbu, and Board members, Chief Sam Molokwu and
Barrister Bob Eze.
The Institute was reacting to the recent complaints and agitations
concerning Peter Obi’s administration involving the appointment of a
Caretaker Committee for Umuoji Town Union on June 23, 2009, by
Commissioner Dubem Obaze without any consultation or discussions with the
town’s constitutional authorities, such as the Igwe and his cabinet or the
Town Union executives. Similar intrusions have been reported to NPI-USA
involving quite a number of Anambra State Communities and at each
instance, it has caused further disunity and distrust within these
communities. There have been allegations of monetary corruption against the
Commissioner in each instance and intimidation of Community leaders.
The institute said ‘’since the complaint was made to NPI-USA through
the Famous Internet forum, “Anambraforum”, we had expected Governor Obi
to address this issue. To our amazement, we found out that the Government
has continued to ignore the issue thereby necessitating NPI-USA to bring
this issue to the public.’‘
The US based institute further asked why the Commissioner has decided to
take his action which is inimical to peace in Umuoji; why he has decided to
ignore the work of the G-20 Panel set up by the people themselves; why
Governor Peter Obi’s administration, which is a child of the law, has
decided to ignore the Court injunction which will be heard July 27, 2009.
It is better late than never and the Commissioner and the Governor will
be well advised to rescind this action before it is too late.”
NPI_USA feels that Community problems have existed for years and had always
been resolved by the Communities through the Constituted Town Union
Authorities which are the Igwes, Igwes in Council and the Town Union
Executives. Communities must be given opportunity to explore their
traditional ways of solving their problems before Government’s
intervention.
Government’s intrusion is only necessary when there is uncontrollable
violence or loss of lives and properties. Government assistance is equally
necessary when the Town leadership and the Igwe agree to take the matter to
the state governments if the Local Government Administrator is unable
to resolve the conflict.
That is the way it is supposed to work. The Executive Director condemns a
situation where individuals in their communities take it upon themselves to
boycott this process and use their friendship or connections with the State
government to unduly invite Governments to intervene in their Community’s
problems. Chief Asiegbu says this is nothing but an abuse of power and
disrespect for the Towns leadership and the Local Government Administration.
No government should be used for such egoistic and power_display
purposes, and we pray that His Excellency, Gov. Peter Obi does not continue
to sanction such abuse of powers and due process by his administration.
The Executive Director has therefore call on Governor Peter Obi, to
ensure that Umuoji Community’s case receives the highest attention and
that this illegal and uninvited Government usurpation of Town Union
administrations does not continue.
He urge the governor to conduct local government election to allow
Community problems be handled by the appropriate authority which is the
Local government Chairman. And also allow the constitutionally established
G_20 panel set up by all Umuojians, to complete it’s work in a tranquil
atmosphere.
|
Okechukwu Mbanefo 
Ejike 
Jon 
Mike Okeke 
EMMANUEL,USA
it can only be stopped when our elders end stealing insi