Investigations
Public Officials Received N721bn Bribe In 2023 – NBS Report
A staggering N721 billion was received in bribes by public officials in Nigeria in 2023, according to a report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The report, which was released on [date], paints a damning picture of corruption in the country’s public sector.
The NBS report, titled “Corruption in Nigeria: Patterns and Trends,” is based on a survey of 33,000 households across the country. It found that bribery is widespread in Nigeria, with many citizens paying bribes to access basic services such as healthcare, education, and electricity.
According to the report, the total value of bribes paid to public officials in 2023 was N721 billion, equivalent to about 1.5% of the country’s GDP. This represents a significant increase from the N634 billion reported in 2022.
The report also found that the majority of bribes were paid in cash, with 62% of respondents reporting that they paid bribes in cash. The remaining 38% paid bribes in kind, such as food, clothing, or other gifts.
The NBS report identified the police and judiciary as the most corrupt institutions in the country, with 46% of respondents reporting that they had paid bribes to police officers and 36% reporting that they had paid bribes to judicial officials.
Other institutions where bribery is prevalent include the power sector, where 34% of respondents reported paying bribes to access electricity; the health sector, where 32% reported paying bribes to access healthcare; and the education sector, where 29% reported paying bribes to access education.
The report also found that bribery is more prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas, with 55% of respondents in urban areas reporting that they had paid bribes compared to 41% in rural areas.
The NBS report is a major embarrassment to the Nigerian government, which has repeatedly promised to tackle corruption. The report’s findings are a stark reminder of the scale of the problem and the need for urgent action to address it.
Reacting to the report, the Federal Government promised to take action to address the issue. “We are committed to tackling corruption in all its forms,” said a spokesperson for the Presidency. “We will study the report and take appropriate action to address the issues raised.”
Civil society organizations in Nigeria have also reacted to the report, calling for greater action to tackle corruption. “This report is a wake-up call for the government to take corruption seriously,” said a spokesperson for the Nigerian Civil Society Coalition. “We need to see concrete action to address this problem, not just rhetoric.”
The NBS report is a major blow to Nigeria’s efforts to tackle corruption. The country has been struggling to address the issue for years, with little progress made. The report’s findings are a stark reminder of the scale of the problem and the need for urgent action to address it
Investigations
Elon Musk’s $1 Million Giveaway Under DOJ Investigation for Potential Legal Violations
Elon Musk’s recent $1 million giveaway has drawn attention from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), which is reportedly scrutinizing the legality of the contest. This giveaway, widely promoted on social media, promised substantial cash prizes to select followers but has now raised concerns about compliance with federal sweepstakes laws. The DOJ’s focus is on whether the giveaway followed proper disclosures and legal requirements, including fair entry rules and transparency. This legal scrutiny adds a new layer of complexity to Musk’s ventures, as he continues to attract both media and regulatory attention with high-profile initiatives. The case underscores the importance of adhering to regulations, even in promotional activities led by influential public figures. The outcome could impact future online giveaways hosted by prominent personalities.
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Cybersecurity and data protection are critical priorities as Africa advances in digital connectivity and innovation. With rapid growth in internet use and digital transformation across sectors, African countries are increasingly addressing cybersecurity challenges to protect citizens, businesses, and governments from cyber threats. Key initiatives focus on strengthening data protection laws, building cybersecurity infrastructure, and fostering a skilled workforce capable of responding to emerging threats. From securing personal data to safeguarding national infrastructures, African nations are taking proactive steps to ensure a safer, more resilient digital future. Join the conversation on how Africa is advancing in cybersecurity and protecting valuable data assets.
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ExxonMobil Guyana has announced plans to increase oil production from its Stabroek block by 18,000 barrels per day (bpd). The capacity of the Unity floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel will increase from 252,000 bpd to 270,000 bpd, pending approval from local authorities. ExxonMobil Guyana currently produces 665,000 bpd, and future developments include the Hammerhead project, which aims to produce 120,000-180,000 bpd. The company’s investment is set to further strengthen Guyana’s economy as it grows into a major oil producer.
In political developments, President Irfaan Ali has announced several benefits ahead of Guyana’s upcoming elections. The new incentives include free college tuition and a one-time cash handout of nearly $1,000 per household, benefiting 264,000 families. The minimum wage will also increase from $350 to $500 starting next year, aimed at reducing the cost of living for Guyanese citizens.
Guyana’s economy, bolstered by its growing oil sector, saw a remarkable 60% GDP growth in 2022, the highest in the world, according to the IMF. To further utilize oil revenues, the government is launching various infrastructure projects, including hospitals, schools, and a $1.9 billion gas-to-energy initiative.
At the same time, the 115th COTED meeting on agriculture in CARICOM is tackling challenges like climate change and underdeveloped agricultural value chains, working towards the 25 by 2025 Food Security Initiative.
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Hurray! It’s the 25th Edition of Diaspora Watch!
Cybersecurity and Data Protection in Africa
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Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
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