Unusual open letter proposal to President Tinubu: Strategic Leadership-Part 2
Emmanuel Taiwo
Director Sales and Marketing at Solar Freedom Energy Solution & Contractors
Happy 63 independence to blessed Nigeria.
Strategic Leadership-Part 2
Case Study: Nigeria
My Open Letter To President Tinubu
Please refer to my last blog on different types/kinds of leaders. The Dreamers, Visionaries, and Tactical Thinkers as leaders in Nigeria and Africa.
I don’t envy the Nigerian president because he said categorically that nobody should pity him, he asked for it, and he’s ready to solve the Nigerian problems, which are mostly created by Nigerian politicians.
Mr. President sir, God has blessed you and granted you a life-long ‘emilokan’ ambition, what remains is for your name to be written in gold??as a reformer president of Nigeria, who made the game-change, making Nigeria face the right direction towards development. Please take special notice of my final home-grown-solutions-to-the-issues-bedeviling-Nigeria’ later in this ‘letter’.
Mr. President sir, and among other things, what are the major factors threatening instability in Nigeria?
A few among others are:
?? Insecurity
?? Inflation
?? Energy supply
Insecurity:
Just for academic purposes:
Cambridge dictionary meaning of insecurity:
Insecurity
noun UK? /??n.s??kj??.r?.ti/ US? /??n.s??kj?r.?.t?i/ insecurity noun (LACK OF CONFIDENCE)
'a feeling of lacking confidence and not being sure of your own abilities or of whether people like you':
sense/feeling of insecurity. There is a rising sense/feeling of insecurity and anxiety about the future.
Deep insecurity.
Insecurity refers to a condition of vulnerability, unpredictability, or absence of safety and stability. It manifests in a variety of forms and contexts and is frequently accompanied by feelings of dread, anxiety, and apprehension. Individuals, communities, or even entire nations may experience insecurity due to a variety of factors, such as:
1. Physical Security: Insecurity can refer to physical safety concerns, such as the dread of physical harm, violence, or danger. This may involve concerns about criminality, accidents, or natural disasters for individuals.
2. Economic Well-Being: Economic insecurity occurs when individuals or households lack financial stability or confront uncertainties regarding their income, employment, or access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Emotional and Psychological Considerations: Additionally, insecurity can affect emotional and psychological health. Due to factors such as low self-esteem, social isolation, or the dread of rejection or failure, individuals may experience emotional insecurity.
4. "Social and Political Considerations:" Insecurity can extend to communities or nations, where it may be associated with social unrest, political instability, conflicts, or national security threats.
Health and Medical Care: Health insecurity can include concerns about access to healthcare services, the spread of disease, or one's own or loved ones' health.
(6) Relationships: Relationship insecurity may originate from doubts or uncertainties regarding the trustworthiness, loyalty, or commitment of others in romantic, familial, or platonic relationships.
Insecurity can have detrimental effects on a person's mental and emotional health, as well as their overall quality of life. Frequently, addressing insecurity entails taking measures to mitigate risks, develop resilience, and establish a sense of safety and stability. On a broader scale, governments and organizations may also work to resolve insecurity through policies and programs designed to promote safety, economic stability, social cohesion, and other factors that contribute to the security and well-being of the population as a whole.
Mr. President, why are we having uncontrollable inflation in Nigeria?
What is INFLATION?
In economics, inflation is a general increase in prices. This is usually measured using the consumer price index. When the general price level rises, each unit of currency buys fewer goods and services; consequently, inflation corresponds to a reduction in the purchasing power of money. Wikipedia
Solving inflation issues in Nigeria, or in any other nation, is a complex economic challenge requiring a combination of policy measures and structural reforms. Inflation occurs when the general price level of products and services increases over a period of time, resulting in a loss of purchasing power. Here are some strategies Nigeria may employ to combat inflation: ?
The Monetary Policy: Through monetary policy, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) plays a crucial role in managing inflation. It can control the money supply through interest rates and open market operations. Increasing interest rates can help reduce inflation by increasing the cost of borrowing and decreasing expenditure. ?
2. Financial Policy: To control inflation, the government can implement prudent fiscal policies. This includes reducing budget deficits and ensuring responsible debt management. The application of fiscal discipline can reduce inflationary pressures. ?
3. Foreign Exchange Management: Effective management of the exchange rate is essential because fluctuations can influence the prices of imported goods. A stable exchange rate can aid in containing inflation. ?
Reforms on the supply side: It is crucial to address supply-side limitations. To increase food production, Nigeria should invest in infrastructure, strengthen the business environment, and promote agriculture. Inflation is frequently driven by supply-side factors, and increasing the supply of products and services can assist in stabilizing prices. ?
5. Improving Productivity: Increasing productivity and efficacy in various economic sectors can aid in containing inflation. This includes investing in education and the development of skills, as well as encouraging innovation and the adoption of technology. ?
Price Management and Regulation: Especially for essential products and services, price controls and regulations may be necessary in some instances. However, these measures should be implemented with caution to avoid unintended outcomes such as shortages. ?
7. Improving Transparency: Transparency in government policies and economic data can assist in the management of inflationary expectations. When people have faith in the government's actions and data, speculation that contributes to inflation can be reduced. ?
8. Financial Integration: Expanding financial inclusion and enhancing access to banking services can help reduce the reliance on cash transactions, thereby making monetary policy simpler to implement. ?
9. Inflation Targeting: Consider adopting an inflation-targeting framework, where the central bank sets a specific inflation target and uses monetary policy instruments to achieve it. This strategy can provide monetary policy with clarity and predictability. ?
International Cooperation: Given Nigeria's position in the global economy, collaboration with international organizations and neighboring nations can assist in addressing external factors that may affect inflation, including exchange rates and trade policies. ? Noting that addressing inflation is a long-term endeavor that necessitates meticulous planning, coordination, and sometimes difficult policy decisions is essential. In addition, the specific measures to be taken may vary based on the underlying causes of inflation at a given time. In order to effectively manage inflation in Nigeria, a holistic and flexible approach is required.
Energy Supply:
Mr. President, why are we still suffering incessant power cuts and PMS supply crises in Nigeria?
For academic gymnastics, solving Nigeria's energy supply issues, including those related to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS or gasoline) and electricity, is a multifaceted challenge requiring both short-term and long-term structural reforms. Here are some possible strategies for Nigeria: ?
Promote the diversification of energy sources, including renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Investing in renewable energy can result in a more environmentally favorable and sustainable energy mix. ?
Invest in additional power generation capacity in order to satisfy the increasing demand for electricity. This may involve the construction of conventional and renewable power facilities. ?
Upgrade Existing Infrastructure: Modernize and upgrade the existing infrastructure for power generation, transmission, and distribution to reduce losses and improve efficiency. This includes the repair and maintenance of aging power facilities and transmission lines. ?
Privatize and Liberalize the Energy Sector Further: Continue reforms in the electricity sector, including privatization and deregulation, in order to attract private investment, increase competition, and enhance efficiency. ?
Reduce energy subsidies, including those on PMS, in order to create a fiscal policy that is more sustainable. Subsidies can burden public finances and distort the energy market. ?
Invest in Refineries Mix: Invest in the rehabilitation and construction of refineries to lessen the nation's reliance on imported petroleum products and to assure a stable supply of PMS. ?
Implement energy efficiency programs in the industrial, transportation, and residential sectors to reduce energy waste and raise overall energy productivity. ? Promote public-private partnerships: Facilitate public-private partnerships for the development of energy infrastructure, permitting private sector participation in the construction and maintenance of vital energy facilities. ?
Enhance governance, transparency, and accountability in the energy sector to reduce corruption, assure fair pricing, and attract investments. ?
Increase Access to Electricity: Increase access to electricity in rural and underserved areas to promote economic growth and enhance living conditions. ?
Strengthen regulatory institutions and frameworks for the energy sector to guarantee fair competition and protect consumer rights. ?
Invest in Human Capital: Invest in education and training programs to develop a skilled labor force capable of effectively administering and maintaining energy infrastructure. ?
Regional Collaboration: Collaborate with neighboring nations on transnational energy initiatives, such as regional power pools and pipeline networks. ?
The resolution of Nigeria's energy supply issues is a long-term endeavor requiring perseverance and political will. It also involves striking a balance between short-term measures to address imminent problems and long-term structural reforms for sustainable energy development. Collaboration between the public and private sectors and engagement with international partners can play a significant role in achieving these objectives.
1.?????? Home-Grown-Recommendation-For-President-Tinubu:
Treat As Urgent!
?? ? ?Propose redenomination of the Naira is only a solution to the problem of counterfeiting of the Nigerian currency, but it doesn’t change the real value of the Naira. Like a similar case in Ghana where Cedis was decimalized. It also led to inflation apart from the other ‘variable costs’ as a result of changes in the currency. What will be the countermeasures against the newly decimalized currency from being counterfeited?
?? Insecurity: Though I’m not a military expert, my advice cannot be disclosed here.
?? Inflation: Why is the Nigerian economy very unstable?
Dear Mr. President Tinubu, the major things that made the Nigerian economy very unstable among others are insecurity, inflation, and the energy crisis. I salute your courage in taking some bold steps, towards the right direction, except some policy statements that put the cart before the horse.
Please, see the looming impasse threat of NLC and TUC as a blessing in disguise that can lead the nation from an old trajectory into a complete paradigm shift in direction toward economic recovery. Please sir, let ‘labor’ see you as a ‘partner’ or an ‘umpire’ in the struggle to bring relief and succor to Nigerians. Seeing through your eyes, I can see LOVE for Nigeria and a LEADER in a hurry to make a difference.
As you meet with LABOR representatives today at a round-table conference, let them put all their ‘cards’ on the table and achieve a truce unfailingly.
1.?Let LABOR know the constraints of your government. One of the pains and concerns of LABOR is the rising cost of governance in Nigeria. Convince LABOR with proof of your efforts to cut down the cost of governance. I know the overtures of LABOR may be politically impracticable and may require an update or outright constitutional change, but tell LABOR to spearhead the change through the National Assembly. Don’t wait till LABOR shuts down the economy before striking a truce with LABOR. Negotiate with LABOR personally. You may use the national assembly procedures to also buy time.
2.? ? ?Thanks for unifying and floating our foreign exchange policy to be one, but the currency speculators and the black-market dragon are still there. Mr. President, the economy is bastardized beyond repairs. Can’t we put an end to ‘black-marketeering of USD in Nigeria? Could you consider implementing the South African economic model, whereby the usage of the USD within their local economy is illegal? South Africa has implemented foreign exchange controls to manage the movement of foreign currency into the country. These controls were implemented to help stabilize the South African Rand and safeguard the economy of the nation. Typically, South African foreign exchange laws controls include measures such as limits on the amount of foreign currency that individuals and businesses can exchange, restrictions on certain categories of foreign currency transactions, and reporting requirements for cross-border transactions. We can make trading of forex against the naira illegal. All forex entering our economy must be channeled through the banking system and exchanged for Naira, with few exceptions by the government.
3.?Energy Crisis: Mr. President Sir, among other things, could you please support, encourage, and subsidize the rapid replication and installation of solar renewable electricity in Nigeria? And also introduce grid-tied-net smart meters, to enable excess electricity generated by solar-powered installations in our homes, sell back to the national grid on credit, and use the credit to use free electricity when public electricity is restored. Apart from preserving our environment, it also guarantees energy security for the citizens and dwellers in Nigeria. Many Nigerians living in GRA’s (Government Rejected Arears) are already used to making their roads, providing their water, buying their transformers, and generating their electricity (especially solar renewable electricity) themselves, without any major input from their government.
4.? ? ?Mr. President, why is Nigeria producing crude oil and importing petrol? Oga, this is satirically shameful! Can we eat the humble pie and invite China to design an affordable miniature version of modular refinery that an average Nigerian can afford? Can’t we think outside the box and designate some filling stations to sell crude oil to Nigerians directly in Naira and allow us to refine what we use and sell the excess to our neighbors? There may be hiccups here and there, but later the system will eventually be stabilized and the government will be relieved and be able to concentrate on developing Nigeria. If you don’t do it now, ‘tomorrow’ may be too late! The whole world and technology is fast looking away from the use of fossil fuel. It will soon go extinct! It may even dry up! Mr. President, I believe if you can do this, it will stimulate our micro economy with new initiatives, although with also other unexpected environmental challenges which we should strategically mitigate with guideline laws and an effective regulatory body. Mr. President sir, if you can successfully execute this, and an average Nigerian can afford a well-regulated household, solar-powered modular refinery, definitely, you would have delivered Nigeria from going down, and you would have succeeded in writing your name in gold, on the sand of history, but who will remember me?... the Strategic thinker? Please, deliver Nigeria from this holocaust and doldrum!
Special Attention to the ‘egg-heads’ and ‘minders’ of Mr. President:
Please let’s be mindful of the attendant and other consequential implications of this proposal. Take closer note of the following:
It is a commendable concept for Nigeria to collaborate with developed nations to create solar-powered modular refineries that are affordable. Such a partnership could offer numerous benefits: 1. Transition to Cleaner and More Sustainable Energy Sources: Solar-powered refineries align with global initiatives to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. This method can aid in reducing the carbon footprint of conventional oil refining.
2. Energiesicherheit: Increasing domestic refining capacity can boost energy security by decreasing reliance on imported petroleum products. Additionally, this can serve as a buffer against supply disruptions. ? Energy_security
3. Economic Growth: In Nigeria, solar-powered modular refineries can generate employment and stimulate economic development. The construction and operation of these facilities can create employment opportunities and benefit local economies.
4. Availability: A crucial objective is to make refined petroleum products more accessible for the average Nigerian. Solar-powered refineries may result in cost savings, which could be passed on to consumers in the form of reduced petroleum prices.
5. Access to Energy: In areas with limited access to the traditional energy infrastructure, solar-powered facilities can be deployed to provide energy access to remote and underserved communities. However, there are obstacles and factors to consider:
1. Transfer of Technology: Collaboration with developed nations would necessitate technology transfer agreements and knowledge exchange so that Nigeria can effectively operate and maintain these facilities.
2.Infrastructure and Logistics Infrastructure and logistics planning would be required for the construction and transportation of modular refineries to their intended sites.
3. Regulatory Framework: Nigeria would need to establish a regulatory framework for the refining sector that addresses safety, environmental standards, and market competition.
4. Finances: Such undertakings can be extremely difficult to finance. Nigeria would have to investigate funding options, such as public-private partnerships and international aid.
5. Local Content: Encouraging the use of local materials and labor in the construction and operation of these refineries can support local industries and lead to the creation of new jobs.
领英推荐
Long-Term Sustainability: It is essential to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of these facilities. This includes maintenance, technology enhancements, and the ability to adapt to fluctuating energy markets. Nigeria's pursuit of affordable, solar-powered modular refineries can undoubtedly be aided by collaboration with sophisticated nations and the utilization of their expertise. However, Nigeria must carefully plan, strategize, and execute such collaborations in order to maximize the benefits and effectively address potential challenges. Involving relevant stakeholders, such as the government, the private sector, and local communities in the decision-making process is also essential for success.
Nigeria should collaborate with developed nations to develop solar-powered modular refineries that are feasible for the average Nigerian in order to refine crude oil into various products.
Solving Nigeria's energy supply issues, including those related to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS or gasoline) and electricity, is a multifaceted challenge requiring both short-term and long-term structural reforms. Here are some possible strategies for Nigeria:
?
Promote the diversification of energy sources, including renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Investing in renewable energy can result in a more environmentally favorable and sustainable energy mix.
?
Invest in additional power generation capacity in order to satisfy the increasing demand for electricity. This may involve the construction of conventional and renewable power facilities.
?
Upgrade Existing Infrastructure: Modernize and upgrade the existing infrastructure for power generation, transmission, and distribution to reduce losses and improve efficiency. This includes the repair and maintenance of aging power facilities and transmission lines.
?
Privatize and Liberalize the Energy Sector: Continue reforms in the electricity sector, including privatization and deregulation, in order to attract private investment, increase competition, and enhance efficiency.
?
Reduce energy subsidies, including those on PMS, in order to create a fiscal policy that is more sustainable. Subsidies can burden public finances and distort the energy market.
?
Invest in Refineries Mix: Invest in the rehabilitation and construction of refineries to lessen the nation's reliance on imported petroleum products and to assure a stable supply of PMS.
?
Implement energy efficiency programs in the industrial, transportation, and residential sectors to reduce energy waste and raise overall energy productivity.
?
Promote public-private partnerships: Facilitate public-private partnerships for the development of energy infrastructure, permitting private sector participation in the construction and maintenance of vital energy facilities.
?
Enhance governance, transparency, and accountability in the energy sector to reduce corruption, assure fair pricing, and attract investments.
?
Increase Access to Electricity: Increase access to electricity in rural and underserved areas to promote economic growth and enhance living conditions.
?
Strengthen regulatory institutions and frameworks for the energy sector to guarantee fair competition and protect consumer rights.
?
Invest in Human Capital: Invest in education and training programs to develop a skilled labor force capable of effectively administering and maintaining energy infrastructure.
?
Regional Collaboration: Collaborate with neighboring nations on transnational energy initiatives, such as regional power pools and pipeline networks.
?
The resolution of Nigeria's energy supply issues is a long-term endeavor requiring perseverance and political will. It also involves striking a balance between short-term measures to address imminent problems and long-term structural reforms for sustainable energy development. Collaboration between the public and private sectors and engagement with international partners can play a significant role in achieving these objectives.
In Summary:
‘The only thing necessary for evil to triumph in the world is that good men do nothing’. https://en.wikipedia.org/wikipedia/en/A/Special:Search?title=The_only_thing_necessary_for_evil_to_triumph_in_the_world_is_that_good_men_do_nothing&redirect=no#:~:text=Edmund%20Burke%23%22When%20good%20men%20do%20nothing%22
?Please let’s consider an urgent solution to the bugging issues of Nigeria before it crosses the Rubicon.
1) Please prudently manage our balance of trade and balance of payment surplus analytics and deliver Nigeria from deficit relationships with other countries, potentially with the vast majority of countries with which we maintain diplomatic relations.
2) In every country where we have diplomats, all diplomats should be 'market-driven' and establish a Nigerian house as a shopping mall and possibly create other malls and avenues to display Nigerian-made goods that are profitable for Nigeria. Remind them that they are not representing Nigeria in those countries just to drink tea!
3) All local and state administrations should prioritize and produce raw and processed crops for which they have a comparative advantage and set up the required and affordable processing centers for farmers in all our local governments, to ensure world standard branding for our export products, (For example, de-stoning and rice-polishing machines and other required devices for locations with a comparative advantage in rice plantations, etc.) and provide adequate security and needed infrastructure, like access roads to farms and electricity, preferable solar projects for irrigation for farmers. It can be implemented with PPP at a regulated price since it’s renewable.
4) The government should export with their last drop of ‘blood’, and reduce the cost of governance. In negotiating with LABOR, you can encourage LABOR to propose and follow up a bill for the introduction of a?unicameral legislative system, to start with!
5) Adopting the South African model of making possession of USD unlawful in Nigeria. Why should we continue to empower American currency against the Naira? Simple ‘o’ level economics, ‘the higher the demand, the higher the price’. Just withdraw the demand for dollars and the price will fall, except for special developmental projects!
Anyone entering Nigeria must exchange their USD at the airport through the banks and conduct all transactions within the country in Naira only. Every additional required USD transaction must be a traceable electronic transmission. If Nigeria is to survive, forex black marketeering must stop!
?
If the government can implement the aforementioned measures without engaging in politics or corruption, the Naira and Nigeria will recover, and we will reclaim our position as the African superpower.
The suffering of Nigerians must end.
Nigeria has been endowed by God with the finest resources.
We believe that we are 'royal' citizens of the globe.
God must set us free from modern slavery!
?
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
God bless Mr. President.
God bless my readers!
?Amen.
?
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Books for further reading:
Here are some recommended books for further reading on energy-related topics, including renewable energy, energy policy, and sustainable development:
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1. "Sustainable Energy: Without the Hot Air" by David J.C. MacKay
This book provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of sustainable energy options, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions.
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2. "Renewable Energy: Power for a Sustainable Future" by Godfrey Boyle''
an excellent introduction to renewable energy technologies, their potential, and their role in achieving sustainability.
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3. "The Third Industrial Revolution: How Lateral Power Is Transforming Energy, the Economy, and the World" by Jeremy Rifkin"
Rifkin explores how renewable energy, digital communication, and a sharing economy can create a more sustainable future.
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4. "Energy for Sustainability: Technology, Planning, and Policy" by John Randolph and Gilbert M. Masters
This book covers a wide range of energy-related topics, including energy systems, policy, and sustainable development.
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5. "The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power" by Daniel Yergin"
a comprehensive history of the oil industry, offering insights into the geopolitics and economics of energy.
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6. "Energy Transitions: History, Requirements, and Prospects" by Vaclav Smil"
Smil provides a historical perspective on energy transitions and explores the challenges and prospects of transitioning to sustainable energy systems.
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7. "The Future of Clean Energy: Who Wins and Who Loses as the World Goes Green" by Gary Schwendiman"
An examination of the global clean energy transition, its winners and losers, and the potential for addressing climate change
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8. "Energy and Civilization: A History" by Vaclav Smil"
Smil's book delves into the history of energy use and its role in shaping human civilization.
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9. "Solar Revolution: The Economic Transformation of the Global Energy Industry" by Travis Bradford"
This book discusses the economic potential of solar energy and its impact on the energy industry.
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10. "The New Grand Strategy: Restoring America's Prosperity, Security, and Sustainability in the 21st Century" by Mark Mykleby, Patrick Doherty, and Joel Makower
explores a comprehensive strategy for the United States that includes sustainability and renewable energy as key components.
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These books offer a diverse range of insights into energy-related topics, from renewable energy technologies to the history and future of energy systems. Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of energy or the broader implications for society and the environment, these books provide valuable information and perspectives.