Democracy in West Africa: Beyond Elections, Toward Accountability

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Samuel Odebowale

West Africa has become a region of contrasts. On one hand, we see regular elections, peaceful transitions, and leaders who claim democratic legitimacy. On the other, we witness coups, corruption, and institutions too weak to protect citizens. Reports from NAN and APS highlight rising frustration: democracy is being reduced to ballots, while accountability and governance remain neglected. Citizens deserve more than election day rituals — they deserve governments that serve them every day. Elections…

Non-Oil Exports Record Growth Across Nigerian Seaports

Posted on January 6, 2026 by Samuel Odebowale

Nigerian seaports have recorded increased throughput of non oil export cargo, reflecting gradual diversification of the national export base. Agricultural produce, processed goods, and solid minerals accounted for a significant share of outbound shipments. The Nigerian Ports Authority attributed the growth to improvements in port operations, digitisation of processes, and rising international demand. Exporters have also benefited from streamlined documentation and reduced turnaround times. Africa Signal Trade Analysts caution that sustaining export growth will require…

National Assembly Moves to Strengthen Maritime Security Governance

Posted on December 30, 2025 by Samuel Odebowale

The House of Representatives has intensified legislative action on maritime security with an expanded focus that links security enforcement to maritime education and human capital development. The initiative is being driven by the House Committee on Maritime Security and Education, which has commenced a wide-ranging review of existing laws, institutional coordination mechanisms, and capacity development structures within the sector. Speaking during a committee session in Abuja, Hon. Khadija Waziri-Bukar Ibrahim, Chairman of the House Committee…

Lagos State Scales Up Drainage Infrastructure to Mitigate Flood Risks

Posted on December 30, 2025December 30, 2025 by Samuel Odebowale

The Lagos State Government has scaled up its drainage expansion and flood mitigation programme as part of a broader urban resilience strategy ahead of the peak rainfall season. The intervention covers construction of new drainage channels, rehabilitation of aging infrastructure, and extensive desilting of primary and secondary collectors across flood prone areas of the state. Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu described the initiative as a core component of the administration’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and…

Edo State Launches Integrated Skills Programme to Tackle Youth Unemployment

Posted on December 30, 2025December 31, 2025 by Samuel Odebowale

The Edo State Government has expanded its youth employment and human capital development agenda through an integrated skills development programme designed to align training outcomes with market demand. The initiative targets vocational trades, agribusiness value chains, and digital economy skills, with implementation structured around partnerships with the private sector and accredited training institutions. The Executive Governor of Edo State, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo described the programme as a deliberate shift from short term employment interventions…

1 2 »

Author: Samuel Odebowale