馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Former Nigerian Ambassador and others advocate for governance restructuring amid rising insecurity
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Former Nigerian Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, speaking at a symposium organized by the National Association of Public Affairs Analysts, called for an urgent restructuring of Nigeria鈥檚 governance architecture to address rising insecurity and strain on the democratic system. Farounbi, who chaired the event, emphasized that security is the most critical issue facing the country and requires fundamental restructuring. He stated that Nigeria's challenges stem from structural deficiencies, weak institutions, and poor policy implementation, rather than a lack of knowledge or ideas. He also highlighted that insecurity is a clear indicator of systemic failure and urged collective national responsibility, calling for reforms to strengthen governance and restore public trust. Segun Showunmi, Convener of The Alternative Movement, represented by Lateef Aremu, discussed Nigeria鈥檚 democratic trajectory, noting that while the Fourth Republic has seen uninterrupted electoral cycles since 1999, its democratic depth remains fragile. He pointed out that issues like elite dominance, weak internal party democracy, economic hardship, and declining voter confidence undermine democratic legitimacy. Showunmi warned that the period leading up to the 2027 general elections is a critical turning point and that failure to address institutional weaknesses could deepen public distrust. He advocated for reforms in electoral administration, stronger political party structures, and greater responsiveness from poli
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadThe European Union has mandated that Google share data with other search engines and allow rival AI services access to its Android system. This directive, issued under the EU's Digital Markets Act DMA, aims to foster competition and provide users with more choices. Google is required to begin sharing search data by January 2027, with Android changes for users starting in July 2027. EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen stated that these measures are expected to encourage alternatives to Google Search and its AI services like Gemini, enabling users to choose their preferred AI chatbot via voice commands. Google, however, has expressed concerns, with its head of global affairs Kent Walker stating that the measures introduce "unprecedented risks to user privacy, device security, and national security." He argued that sharing search data could expose private searches to unfamiliar companies without adequate anonymization or user consent. A senior European official countered that the EU has prioritized integrity, security, and privacy, and the decision ensures anonymization of search data. This demand is legally binding but is not a formal probe that could lead to fines. Separately, sources indicate the EU might impose a fine on Google next week in another DMA investigation. The EU has previously fined Google a total of 8.2 billion euros between 2017 and 2019 under different competition rules, and a 2.95 billion euro fine in September last year in an antitrust case.
All Progressives Congress chieftain Farouk Aliyu stated that Christians are more comfortable with the party鈥檚 Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket now than before the 2023 general election. Speaking on Arise Television, Aliyu argued that President Bola Tinubu鈥檚 administration has alleviated fears of religious marginalization. He defended President Tinubu鈥檚 decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, asserting that the APC had gained Nigerians' confidence in the last election. Aliyu noted that the initial decision to field two Muslim candidates in 2023 drew criticism over concerns about Christian marginalization, but he believes this is now history, as no one is being marginalized along religious lines. He added that President Tinubu has governed without religious bias. The APC chieftain expressed satisfaction with retaining Shettima, stating that changing the ticket could create unnecessary political challenges. Aliyu is confident that Nigerians will support the Tinubu-Shettima ticket again in the 2027 presidential election. The APC鈥檚 choice of Tinubu, a Muslim from the South-West, and Shettima, a Muslim from the North-East, for the 2023 election sparked national debate, with Christian groups opposing it. However, the APC defended the decision as based on competence and strategy, not religion, and the ticket ultimately won the 2023 presidential election.
Must ReadNigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, called on the Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS to strengthen regional cooperation against terrorism and transnational crimes. Speaking at the 56th Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Enikanolaiye emphasized the need for sustained dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to address security and governance challenges. He urged member states to promptly pay the ECOWAS Community Levy, highlighting Nigeria's consistent fulfillment of its obligations despite domestic challenges. The minister stressed a reinvigorated regional response to terrorism, piracy, banditry, and transnational organized crime, noting Nigeria's intensified military operations. On democracy, Enikanolaiye reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to credible elections, assuring the council of free and fair 2027 general elections and inviting observers. He also condemned rising Afrophobic violence in South Africa, urging ECOWAS to adopt a firm position for submission to the African Union. Furthermore, he advocated for sustained engagement with the Alliance of Sahelian States Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Guinea-Bissau, stressing dialogue and inclusive approaches for regional peace and stability.