The Nigerian naira has been named one of the weakest currencies in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2024, depreciating by 43% year-to-date, according to the World Bank’s Africa’s Pulse report.

This decline is due to high demand for U.S. dollars, limited inflows, and slow forex disbursements from the central bank. Despite reforms, broader economic challenges, including low reserves and inflation, continue to weigh on the naira.

However, the currency saw some recovery on October 14, appreciating by 5.69%. The World Bank projects Nigeria’s economy will grow by 3.3% in 2024.

A tragic petrol tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura local government area of Jigawa State claimed the lives of at least 90 people on Tuesday night.

The devastating accident occurred near Khadija University when the driver of the tanker lost control around 11:30 p.m.

The vehicle, which had departed from Kano and was en route to Nguru in Yobe State, exploded shortly after the crash, engulfing the area in flames.

According to the police spokesperson in Jigawa, Mr. Shi’isu Adam, 50 individuals who sustained various injuries are currently receiving treatment at Ringim General Hospital.

Many of them are in critical condition, with some facing life-threatening burns.

Mr. Adam revealed that the high number of casualties was largely due to the crowd that gathered around the site of the crash despite repeated warnings from authorities to avoid accident scenes involving fuel tankers.

He expressed concern over this persistent disregard for safety precautions, stating that it was the primary reason for the massive loss of life in this incident.

“We’ve consistently advised the public to stay away from such sites, but unfortunately, many people rushed to the scene, leading to these tragic deaths,” Mr. Adam said.

The scale of the disaster has left the community in shock. Families who lost loved ones are in deep mourning, while others anxiously await news about their hospitalized relatives.

In response to the large number of victims, local officials have scheduled a mass burial for Wednesday morning at 9 a.m., with families and community leaders expected to attend.

The tanker explosion has raised concerns about the frequency of such accidents in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where emergency response is slower and where residents often approach accident sites unaware of the dangers.

Safety experts have called for more public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.

This heartbreaking event highlights not only the risks associated with fuel transportation but also the importance of educating the public on how to react in emergency situations.

The people of Jigawa are now left to pick up the pieces from this horrific event while hoping for the recovery of those still fighting for their lives in the hospital.

Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, has once again shown his commitment to education and health by fulfilling a pledge he made three months ago to Grimard College of Nursing Sciences in Anyigba, Kogi State.

His return to the institution yesterday was marked by his presentation of a significant donation aimed at improving the students’ learning experience, particularly their clinical training.

During his previous visit to the College, Obi had donated ₦10 million to support the institution’s academic development.

However, in discussions with the school’s Proprietor and Rector, it became clear that their most urgent requirement for accreditation was a 32-seater coaster bus, essential for transporting students to their clinical experience visits.

These visits, a crucial part of their training, enable students to gain practical knowledge and exposure in the field, making access to reliable transportation vital for their studies.

In further talks with Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Adaji, the school’s spiritual leader, Obi was informed that a brand-new bus would cost over ₦100 million, a price too steep for the College.

However, a fairly used one, priced between ₦20 million and ₦30 million, could meet the school’s needs adequately.

Taking this into account, Obi promised to help the institution secure a vehicle within this budget.

True to his word, Obi returned to the school yesterday, presenting a well-maintained fairly used bus, valued within the range previously discussed, to support the students.

This gesture ensures that nursing students will now have the necessary transportation to fulfill their clinical assignments, which are crucial to their education and professional development.

In addition to donating the bus, Obi contributed another ₦5 million to cover the vehicle’s registration, insurance, and maintenance expenses for the first year.

This comprehensive support ensures that the College will not have to bear any additional costs related to the vehicle for the next year, allowing them to focus their resources on other pressing needs.

During the event, Obi expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received from the College’s Proprietor, Management, and staff, applauding their dedication to education and healthcare.

He acknowledged the critical role the institution plays in both fields, commending their ongoing contributions to the betterment of society through their health apostolate.

“I extend my sincere thanks to the Proprietor, Management, and staff of this great institution for their commitment to humanity.

I commend their tireless efforts in nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Education and health are pillars of development, and your work is directly contributing to the progress of this nation,” Obi said.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the College in the future.

“I assure you that I will continue to support you in my modest way as we work together towards a new Nigeria that is POssible,” he added, using a phrase that has become a hallmark of his political campaign, symbolizing his vision for a better Nigeria.

Obi’s donation comes at a time when many educational institutions in Nigeria are grappling with funding challenges, particularly those in rural areas.

The Grimard College of Nursing Sciences, founded by the Catholic Church, plays a pivotal role in training healthcare professionals who are desperately needed in the country, especially in underserved communities.

The College’s Rector, the Proprietor, and Bishop Adaji were all present to receive the bus and express their appreciation for Obi’s continued support.

Bishop Adaji noted the significance of Obi’s contributions, not just financially, but also in boosting the morale of the students and staff, showing them that their hard work and dedication are recognized and valued.

As Nigeria continues to face challenges in the education and healthcare sectors, Peter Obi’s actions demonstrate the impact that focused and sustained support can have in addressing critical needs.

His efforts at Grimard College of Nursing Sciences exemplify how philanthropy and leadership can work hand-in-hand to foster growth and development in key areas of society.

Obi’s gesture serves as a reminder of the importance of community-driven support for educational and health institutions, particularly those that train professionals who will serve the nation in critical capacities.

His dedication to nurturing the next generation of nurses aligns with his broader vision for a new Nigeria, one where education, healthcare, and opportunity are accessible to all citizens.

With this latest act of generosity, Peter Obi continues to strengthen his reputation as a leader who is not only concerned with political aspirations but also with tangible actions that uplift communities and promote national development.

His pledge to continue supporting institutions like Grimard College shows his long-term commitment to the education and health sectors, both of which are key to the future prosperity of Nigeria.