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COVID-19: Air Peace evacuates 274 Israelis from Abuja; Lagos to Tel-Aviv

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Air Peace boss, Allen Onyema

AIR PEACE Sunday evacuated 274 Israelis from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (NAIA) to Tel-Aviv, Israel.

The flight, which airlifted 65 passengers from Lagos and proceeded to Abuja to airlift another 209 was operated by Air Peace Boeing 777-300 with registration number 5N-BWI.

The Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Allen Onyema described the flight as historical because it is the first time Nigeria and Israel would have a direct flight and expressed hope that subsequently the two countries would have scheduled direct flight between Lagos and Tel-Aviv.

“It is a historic day for both Nigeria and Israel. History has been made today. 60 years of diplomatic relations, no direct flight has been conducted between Nigeria and Israel till today. So this is the first time Nigeria and Israel will have direct air connectivity. So it is a historic day and it is going to portend greater things that will come. Both countries have a lot to gain by having direct flights. Nigeria is a land of huge potential, which Israel may be willing to tap into, while Nigeria will want to tap into science and technology, which Israel is known for.

“I really want to thank the federal government of Nigeria for making this possible. Previous administrations were unable to pull this through, but this government did it. We have a compassionate government; that I can tell you. It is difficult to get flight permits even during this critical period of emergencies from other countries, but Nigeria did not waste a second to approve this flight. The Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika approved the request the moment it was presented to him. All the heads of aviation agencies gave their support, which made the flight possible. So it is the federal government that made the evacuation possible,” Onyema said.

He said the Israel government also gave its support and allowed for the first time a Nigerian airline to operate direct flight to the Israel, noting that this is something good for both countries, good for our diplomatic relations.

“So I feel proud, I fell privileged to be part of this history and I thank God almighty for it. We have to build from here now going forward,” the Air Peace Chairman said.

He also said, “This COVID-19 storm will be over someday. When it is over we look forward to do scheduled direct flight to Israel; at least twice a week to Tel-Aviv; this will help boost business relations between both countries. So there is a lot to be gained instead of people going through different countries before getting to Israel. For Israelis to get their country they spend about 18 hours for just about five hours flight from Nigeria. They were happy and clapping for the Nigerian government and for the Israeli government for making this happen today. So I say kudos to the Buhari administration for making this come through.”

The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Shimon Ben-Shoshan expressed happiness for the successful evacuation of his country’s citizens from Nigeria and commended the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema for his invaluable contribution in making the airlift possible.

“Thank you so much for this cooperation with us. We will work together. During this operation I will work with you hand by hand. I can say that you are the darling of the Nigerian people but you are my hero. Thank you so much,” Ben-Shoshan.

An Israeli official who superintended the airlifting process from Lagos and who wished not to be named, said it was because of the Coronavirus pandemic that Israel decided to evacuate its citizens because they would have access to better medical facilities and personnel in Israel than in Nigeria.

“We are evacuating because of the coronavirus and the situation in Nigeria, which could become serious. You see what is happening all over the world. So for us to protect our citizens better we take them home to get a better health service. If something happens to you here you go to private hospital, not government hospital but in Israel we have government hospitals. By God’s grace we hope to have direct flight subsequently,” the official said.

The Air Peace Station Manager at MMIA, Lenard Olisakwe expressed happiness that Israel chose Nigerian airline to evacuate its citizens to Israel.

It is not easy to be patronized by Israelis who are highly security conscious, having to say, yes I am handing over the lives of my citizens to a particular airline is a big one. I was excited too because for them to choose Air Peace they must have done a lot of homework because they are not frivolous people. We are operating from both Abuja and Lagos. It is a transit flight. We will take them to Abuja international where the other passengers will join and from Abuja to Tel-Aviv. It is about five hour’s flight. We are using one of our B777-300 BWI. It is one of the best we have,” he said.

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Personality Profile

Who’s Dr James Aduku Odaudu?

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Dr. James Aduku Odaudu is a Nigerian professional with extensive experience in public affairs, communications, and development administration. He holds degrees in Theatre and Communications Arts from the University of Jos and a PhD in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

Throughout his career, Dr. Odaudu has played a key role in information management across various sectors, including health, communication, agriculture, security, and aviation. Following his retirement from the Federal Civil Service in April 2022, he was appointed as the Special Adviser on Public Affairs by the  Minister of Aviation.  He also served as the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), where he was responsible for transparent communication regarding aviation incidents and investigations.

Beyond his contributions to public affairs, Dr. Odaudu is a development administrator with a strong interest in public-private partnerships and rural development. His scholarly work includes published articles on development issues in major academic and research journals.

A deeply public-spirited individual, Dr. Odaudu is known for his compassion toward the less privileged, particularly orphans and widows. His commitment to social welfare and community development underscores his dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Dr James Aduku Odaudu

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Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission

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By James Aduku Odaudu, PhD

Introduction

Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.

Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria

The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth. However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:

1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.

2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.

3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.

4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.

5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.

The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:

1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks

The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.

2. Enhancing Energy Supply

By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.

3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure

The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.

4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation

Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.

5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development

The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.

6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development

Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro-processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.

Expected Impact of the NCDC

The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:

Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.

Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.

Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.

Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.

Challenges and Recommendations

As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:

Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.

Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.

Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.

Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.

Conclusion

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.

• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com

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Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission

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By James Aduku Odaudu, PhD

Introduction

Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.

Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria

The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth. However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:

1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.

2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.

3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.

4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.

5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.

The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:

1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks

The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.

2. Enhancing Energy Supply

By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.

3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure

The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.

4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation

Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.

5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development

The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.

6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development

Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro-processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.

Expected Impact of the NCDC

The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:

Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.

Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.

Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.

Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.

Challenges and Recommendations

As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:

Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.

Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.

Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.

Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.

Conclusion

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.

• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com

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