The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed has listed 100 achievements of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration in 2021.
Mohammed said the Buhari government recorded tremendous achievements across all sectors in 2021, despite security, economic challenges and effects of the COVID -19 pandemic.
He noted that these achievements were recorded in the areas of insecurity, boosting the economy and providing infrastructure among others.
Addressing a press conference in Lagos, the minister disclosed that the work on the Second Niger Bridge has reached 78 per cent and the project would be commissioned next November.
The minister stated that about 2.678 households are benefitting from the government’s N5000 cash transfer to the poor every month.
See full text of Mohammed’s list below;
Gentlemen, good morning, and thanks for honouring our invitation to this press conference which, in line with our tradition, we have called to brief you on the achievements of the Buhari Administration in 2021. In view of the long list of achievements and time constraints, we will go straight into the highlights and then provide you with a fuller list.
2. Let me admit straightaway that the year has not been devoid of challenges. For the outgoing year, in particular, the major challenge has been that of insecurity. In spite of this and the usual economic challenges, especially the dwindling resources available to the government, the Administration has availed itself creditably, as we will be demonstrating shortly.
3. As I said in my introductory remarks, our biggest challenge in the outgoing year is in the area of security. Despite the enormity of the challenge, our military has continued to live up to their billing. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their patriotism and sacrifice. We just can’t appreciate them enough, as you will soon see when I break down their achievements in the year under review.
FIGHT AGAINST INSECURITY
4. To keep our country safe, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has set up various operations across the country. These include the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, tagged Operation HADIN KAI covering theNorth East region; the JTF SS, tagged Operation DELTA SAFE covering the South South region; the JTF NW, known as Operation HADARIN DAJIcovering the North West region; Operation SAFE HAVEN covering Plateau, parts of Kaduna and Bauchi States; Operation WHIRL STROKE covering Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States; JTF SW, referred to as Operation AWATSE and covering Lagos and Ogun States; Operation THUNDER STRIKE covering Abuja-Kaduna Highway and Operation WHIRL PUNCH covering parts of Kaduna State.
5. Gentlemen, in the North East Zone under Operation HADIN KAI, a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic operations, coupled with a review of strategies, led to the neutralization of over 1000terrorists, rescue of 2000 civilians and the surrender of over 22,000 terrorists including their families. Many arms and ammunition were also recovered. This is in addition to destruction of several IED/bomb making factories of the ISWAP/BHT. Under Operation HADARIN DAJI in the North West, the conduct of offensive clearance operations, raids and air operations resulted in the neutralization of about 427 bandits, arrest of 257 bandits, rescue of 897 civilians and recovery of 3,087 livestock. Similarly, Operation WHIRL PUNCH covering parts of Kadunaneutralized about 215 bandits, arrested 133 bandits, rescued 296 civilians and recovered 136 livestock, while Operation THUNDER STRIKE neutralized 36 bandits, arrested 74, rescued 296 civilians andrecovered 136 livestock. In the North Central, raids and clearance operations conducted by Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized 91 criminal elements, arrested 155 suspects, rescued 159 civilians and recovered 3,259 livestock. For its part, Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 158 criminals, arrested 151 suspects and rescued 183 civilians. OperationDELTA SAFE in the South-South destroyed about 1,520 illegal refineries, confiscated 5,315 storage facilities and impounded 617 boats, amongst other items. Additionally, about 74,297,425 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), 41,971,693 litres of crude oil and 88,350 litres of PMS were recovered. Furthermore, 174 trucks and 13 vessels were impounded while 755 illegal oil bunkerers were arrested and 153 assorted weapons recovered. In the South West, patrols and clearance operations by troops of Operation AWATSE led to the arrest of 46persons for various forms of criminalities while several vehicles, jerricans, motorcycles and electricity generators used for illegal bunkering were seized..
6. The effectiveness of the military was enhanced by the leadership provided by President Muhammadu Buhari and the unwavering commitment of the armed forces and its leadership. The procurement of modern platforms for the armed forces has also gone a long way in raising the level of their operational readiness and efficiency, in addition to boosting their capabilities. During the period under review, the Nigerian Army procured 160 MRAPS, 150 trucks and 60 APCs to improve its equipment holding. Various kits were equally provided for troops. This is in addition to the provision of accommodation for troops and the recruitment of over 10,000 personnel into the Army. The Nigerian Navy (NN), for its part, commissioned the FALCON EYE Maritime Domain Awareness Capability, the third locally-built Seaward Defense Boat, one helicopter, 4 inshore patrol boats and 90 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats. Over 1,500 personnel were recruited into the Navy during the year. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) took delivery of 12 Super Tucanos and 3 JF-17 Thunder Fighter Aircraft and other platforms with which it has conducted several Air interdictions, provided close air support to ground troops and destroyed several illegal structures and equipment belonging to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
7. The Armed Forces of Nigeria has also contributed immensely to International peace and security efforts with its robust participation in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the regional initiative, the ECOWAS Military Intervention in the Gambia (ECOMIG). The Nigerian military’s continued participation in these Missions has ensured their viability and sustenance towards achieving their military and political goals. Overall, the good news is that the military, in spite of its achievements, is not resting on its oars. The Military has assured that it is also poised, in fulfilment of its constitutional duties, to address the myriad of evolving contemporary threats, particularly as the 2023 elections draw nearer.
8. Still on the fight against insecurity, the implementation of the community policing initiative of the current administration has led to the training of 25,000 constabularies in several police colleges across the country. The successful officers who were trained on basic police duties, modern intelligence gathering techniques, rule of law, etc. were deployed to their Local Governments of Origin to aid in intelligence gathering and improve police visibility in their communities. Also, in an effort to improve the police/citizens ratio, 418 Cadet officers of regular course 3 were successfully graduated in June 2021 and deployed into the operational asset of the Nigeria Police Force. Through the Police Trust Fund, 200 Buffalo branded vehicles, bulletproof vests, protective helmets, drugs, and medical equipment as well as arms and ammunition, riot control equipment, and combat equipment were procured for the Police Special Weapon and Tactical Squad (SWAT). The Ministry of Police Affairs has also entered into a contract agreement for the supply of police Anti Riot Equipment with Poly Technology of China through a Government-to-Government arrangement at a cost of 44 million U.S. Dollars. These equipment will go a long way in boosting the capacity of the police to control civil unrest in the most efficient and civil manner.
ECONOMY9. The recovery of the economy remained on a steady path throughout the year 2021. As you are aware, gentlemen, many countries around theworld face unprecedented challenges, starting from 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and Nigeria is no exception. The Nigerian economy was hit by the pandemic in mid- 2020, and the economic disruptions led to a recession. The poor performance of the economy during the COVID-19 era affected output growth, trade, household welfare and livelihood. However, this led to a quick response by the federal government with the rolling out of effective fiscal and monetary policies as well as health-related policies intended to curb the spread of the pandemic and mitigate the negative impact of the pandemic on the economy. This has yielded considerable results. For example, the country’s domestic growth in the first three quarters of 2021 was positive, recording real GDP of 0.51 percent in Q1, 5.01 percent in Q2 and 4.03 percent in Q3 2021, This was an improvement from a declining performance in the first three quarters of 2020 (which led to economic recession) put at 1.87 percent in Q1, -6.10 percent in Q2 and -3.62 percent in Q3 2020. Nevertheless, the fourth quarter 2020 recorded a slight improvement of 0.11 percent, ushering in positive growth rates in the three quarters of 2021. This economic performance in 2021 shows a steady improvement in growth over the last three quarters of 2020, and this can be attributed to government policies and strategies such as the Economic Sustainability Plan; the N500 billion COVID 19 Crisis Intervention Fund etc.
10. In the oil sector, real growth shows poorer performance in 2021, recording 2.21% (year-on-year) in Q1 2021, -12.65% in Q2 2021 and –10.73% in Q3 2021, from stronger growth of 5.06% in Q1 2020, -6.63% in Q2 2020, and -13.89% in Q3 2020. However, oil production in million barrel per day continued to decline in 2021, from 2.07mbpd in Q1 2020,1.81mbpd in Q2 2020, 1.67mbpd in Q3 2020 to 1.72mbpd in Q1 2021, 1.61mbpd in Q2 2021 and 1.57mbpd in Q3 2021. Non-oil sector indicated better performance of 0.79% in Q1 2021, 6.74% in Q2 2021 and 5.44% in Q3 2021, compared to 1.55% in Q1 2020, -6.05% in Q2 2020, and -2.51% in Q3 2020. In Foreign Trade, Nigeria witnessed dwindling performance in 2020, arising from trade restrictions on accounts of COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions of trading activities driven by the pandemic further weakened the balance of trade witnessed in Q4 2019 in the subsequent quarters. Consequently, total imports in the first three quarters of 2021 rose by 57.13%, from N13.97 in the corresponding quarters of 2020 to N21.95 trillion. Similarly, total exports grew by40.62%, which was N13.12 trillion in the first three quarters of 2021, compared to N9.33trillion in the corresponding period, an indication of improved trading activities although with a deficit position. Over the same period crude oil export improved considerably at N10.03 trillion, compared to N6.92 trillion, showing a growth rate of 44.93%, while Non-oil exports grew by 21.17% – from N1.19trillion to N1.44trillion over thesame period. Inflation rate has continued to decline on a year-on-year basis since April 2021 when 18.12% was recorded. Looking at the trend, a declining rate was recorded from 17.93% in May to 17.01% in August, 15.99% in October and 15.40% November 2021. It is projected that proper implementation of the proposed 2022 project of N17.13trillion, and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework & Fiscal Strategy Paper2022-2024 are likely to improve the performance of the economy.. Also, judicious implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act will likely improve oil production/sales stability; relatively high oil priceswill enhance revenue performance and budget implementation, while strengthening security will improve output growth of the economy.
OIL AND GAS SECTOR
Undoubtedly one of the greatest achievements of the Administration in 2021, and indeed in the past several decades, was recorded in the oil and gas sector, a sector very critical to the nation’s economic well-being. The passage and signing into law of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) is a landmark achievement. Many have described it as themost profound event in the Nigerian oil and gas space in the last 20 years. The PIA is envisaged to foster investment in the industry and delineate responsibilities to the various institutions. Its key objectives are:– to establish a commercialized National Oil Company (NNPC Ltd.) – to entrench accountability and good governance– to promote the exploration and exploitation of the petroleum resources in Nigeria for the benefit of all Nigerians as well as foster the sustainable development of the host communities.
12. Overall, the PIA serves to ensure the efficient and effective technical and operational regulation of the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors of the oil industry through the formation of the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Midstream
and Downstream Regulatory Authority, among others.
13. Also worthy of note is the transformation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The nation’s national oil entity has witnessed many changes and transformation through the decades. From its take-off on 1st April 1977 as a merger of the Nigerian National Oil Corporation (NNOC) and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum and Energy Resources, the NNPC – now re-christened NNPC Limited – has been undergoing the kind of transformation designed to re-invent the entity for greater efficiency and value creation. Yet, the changes and the unprecedented deluge of reformations in 2021 eclipse previous attempts to restructure the oil company. The tempo created with the passage and eventual presidential assent of the PIA was sustained with the quick activation of Part V of the new law which requires the incorporation of a commercial and profit-focused National Oil Company (NOC) within six (6) months of the passage into law. Thus, the NNPC Management – on behalf of the Federal Government – incorporated the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited under the Companies and Allied Matters Act. Under the new arrangement, NNPC Ltd will, on behalf of the Federation, take over assets, interests and liabilities of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
14. Another major achievement in the sector is the posting of an N287 billion profit, after-tax, by the NNPC. It was the first time in 44 years that the Corporation has recorded such profit, which the NNPC attributed to aggressive cost-cutting measures, cost savings through renegotiation of contracts by up to 30%, improved efficiency through business automation, emphasis on commercially-focused investment and non-interference in the management of the corporation’s affairs, among other factors. The construction/rehabilitation of 21 Roads under the Federal Government’s Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme is also a major achievement. Recall, gentlemen, that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved N621.2 billion for the NNPC to take over the reconstruction of 21 federal roads across the six geopolitical zones of the country. The construction and rehabilitation of the selected roads are meant as strategic intervention under the Federal Government Road Infrastructure and Refreshment Tax Credit Scheme.
INFRASTRUCTURE – WORKS AND HOUSING15. Without question, an area in which the present Administration has distinguished itself is in the provision of key infrastructures, which is important to the growth and development of any economy. In its efforts to provide basic infrastructure, especially roads and housing, the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing carried out the following projects in 2021.
(I) Nnewi-Uduma Road, Sections I and II (26.27km) in Enugu and Ebonyi States(II) Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II (100.08KM),(Shuwarin-Azare) in Jigawa and Bauchi States(III) Kano-Maiduguri Road Section III (Azare-Potiskum)106.34km in Bauchi and Yobe States(IV) Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phase I and II (24km) in Benue and Cross River States(V) Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kontagora-Makera Road (304km)
16. Also, various highway and bridge projects at various stages of completion are ongoing across the six geopolitical zones of the country. The bridges include the much-talked-about 2nd Niger Bridge,which is currently at 78% completion and is expected to be ready by November 2022. Ongoing work on the bridge consists of the construction of a 1.59km long bridge and 10.3km length of approach roads. The total length of the Main Work is 11.90km. The bridge and approach roads are 2×3 lane expressways. Other ancillary works include the construction of two secondary bridges at Oko Amakun (21.70m) and Atani Road (21.70m). Also to be constructed is a new cloverleaf interchange at Onitsha-Owerri Road. Several culverts and drainage structures will also be constructed. There is also the 360-meter bridge at Ikom in Cross River State, which was completed in2021 and awaiting commissioning; the 400-meter border bridge between Nigeria and Cameroon at Mfum and Ekok, which was also completed in 2021 and is now awaiting commissioning.
17. In order to ensure that the private sector participates in and contributes to the implementation of Federal Government Programmes, the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing is developing a HighwayDevelopment and Management Initiative (HDMI), a framework for the private sector participation in road development. HDMI was created by the Ministry to manage and develop the Federal Road network, with the aim of attracting sustainable investment and funding in the development of road infrastructure and maximizing the use of assets along the right of way. The rationale behind the private sector engagement under the HDMI is to provide an alternative avenue of financing road construction, management and maintenance. Out of the total length of the Federal road network of about 35,000km, the first phase of the proposed project will cover a total length of about1,963.24km. Most of the ongoing projects of the Ministry, especially the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), are already attracting massive infrastructural investment. It is envisaged that over a trillion-naira direct investment will be mobilized in the first phase of the HDMI.
18. It is imperative to state that the policies, programmes and projects of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing have contributed to stabilizing the macro-economic situation of the country, particularly in job creation. The activities of the Ministry have further contributed to the growth of other sectors of the economy such as the Mining sector through the supply of aggregates, laterite, limestone and other building materials; Cement manufacturing, Bitumen (Importation) and steel production to support construction needs; the fact that property values are reportedly appreciating by 30%-40% as a result of road transport infrastructure and the growing demand for petroleum products like diesel, petrol, lubricants and tyres as a result of construction activities and the need to operate machines.
INFRASTRUCTURE – AVIATION19. Key achievements recorded in the Aviation sector include the construction and installation of Boeing 737 full-motion flight Simulator at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, a development that will save Nigeria millions of dollars spent in the retraining of pilots in other countries; the installation of fully-automated Aircraft Firefighter Training Simulator also at NCAT, the first of its kind in Africa; Re-fleeting of Trainer Aircraft in NCAT with six aircraft so far; installation of novel Cat III ILS/DMEat Lagos and Abuja airports, instruments that will allow flights to land at low visibility; Procurement of two mobile control towers in Lagos and Abuja and the designation of four International Airports in Abuja, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt as Special Economic Zones, aimed at encouraging business/investment. Investors in Aviation, under this project, are to have pioneer industry status so as to have tax breaks.
INFRASTRUCTURE – TRANSPORTATION
Definitely the most outstanding achievement in the transportation sector in 2021 is the flag-off of the commercial operation of the Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge rail line in June 2021 by President Muhammadu Buhari. The trains are currently conveying goods and services and reducing traffic and human pressure on infrastructural facilities on the Lagos-Ibadan highway. Then there was the ground-breaking ceremony for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Eastern Narrow Gauge Railway project and the Bonny Deep Sea and Railway Industrial Park. The 2,044-km Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line cuts across Rivers, Imo, Anambra, Benue, Enugu, Ebonyi, Gombe, Yobe, Adamawa and Borno. President Buhari also performed in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kano-Kaduna standard gauge rail line modernization project in July 2021. The Project is a continuation of the Lagos-Kano rail plan. It is the third segment, with Lagos-Ibadan as well as Ibadan-Kano as the 1st and 2nd segments, respectively. Then, the MOU for the construction of the US$1.959 billion Kano-Maradi standard gauge line was signed with the Portuguesfirm Mota-Engil Group. This is part of on-going Federal Government’s initiative to provide inter-modal means of transportation across the country as well as enhance trade between Nigeria and some African countries. President Buhari subsequently performed the groundbreaking of the project, which traverses the major commercial centre of Kano and passes through other economic hubs of the country, including Kazaure, Daura, Katsina and up to the border town of Jibiya and the city of Maradi in Niger Republic. On completion, the project would promote the import and export of goods from the Niger Republic and other countries in the sub-region through Nigerian ports. The country would earn revenue through expansion of trade and commerce, while the people of Niger Republic will benefit from the ease of transportation logistics at an affordable cost in their import and export business. The Federal Ministry of Transportation also launched the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure (also known as Deep Blue Asset). This is aimed at managing, controlling andprotecting Nigerian waterways towards the advancement of coastal prosperity, as the Gulf of Guinea in recent times has become a hotbedfor piracy.INFRASTRUCTURE – WATER RESOURCES21. Some 159 Rural Water Supply Schemes were constructed in the North-East, IDP camps and some Federal Institutions and Establishments by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources in the year under review.In addition to the completion of 12 dams, the Ministry also embarked on the implementation of the Partnership for Expanded Water Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) programmes with the construction of 926 rural water supply schemes in 12 States of Imo, Katsina, Jigawa, Plateau, Zamfara, Sokoto, Ondo, Osun, Delta, Bauchi, Kaduna and Gombe States.
Also, the Clean Nigeria Campaign has yielded the following results in the last 12 months, with 71 LGAs now Open Defecation Free. In the area of irrigation, 96,000 hectares of irrigation have been developed as of 2021. In line with the plan to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in the next ten years, the Ministry has ensured that both direct and indirect jobs are created in the implementation of its programmes/projects. A total of 57,261 direct jobs and 11,588 indirect jobs have been created through the various dam, irrigation and water supply projects completed within the reporting period.
NATIONAL SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMMES (NSIP)22. The Federal Government has continued to implement the National Social Investment Programmes. On the directive of Mr. President, theN-Power has been expanded from 500,000 to 1 million beneficiaries. The Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) has beenrestructured to GEEP 2.0. The revamped GEEP 2.0 was officially launched on 24 August 2021 and has successfully registered over 600,000 potential beneficiaries in all the 774 LGAs nationwide throughcollaborative partnership with the National Orientation Agency. The National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) is also growing strong. As you know, the programme is designed as an incentive toboost school enrolment and improve nutrition of primary school pupils while sustaining the impact of agricultural and women entrepreneurs in communities to produce and provide a quality meal daily to pupils atthe basic education level. The NHGSFP aims to provide free school meals to 25 million children in the country by 2030. Currently, the programme is providing meals to nearly 10,000,000 school children nationwide. The programme has further empowered over 100,000 cooks and over 100,000 small holder farmers in the local areas where the schools are located, while creating employment opportunities across sectors such as transportation and manufacturing. The programme is being extended to children in non-conventional educational settings so that they may access its benefits. The Household Uplifting Programme (HUP), which has the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) as its flagship intervention, is designed to provide targeted financial transfers to poor and vulnerable households under an expanded national social safety nets system. Those enrolled in the programme benefit from monthly grants of N5,000 to smoothen consumption, stimulate demand and ensure survival directly in the household. Since its inception, a total of 1,676,799 eligible households across the country are benefiting from monthly N5,000 grants, as of March 2021. This is in addition to the 1 million Urban Poor who are benefitting from the Conditional CashTransfers, under the directive of Mr. President to further expand the programme due to the Covid-19 Pandemic
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY SECTOR23. The Digital Economy sector was highly instrumental in lifting the Nigerian economy out of recession. According to the Q4 2020 Report on Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector recorded the highest growth rate of all the sectors of the Nigerian economy. The breakdown of the different sectors shows that the 14.7% growth rate of the ICT sector was greater than the combined 14.21% growth of the 2nd to 7th fastest growing sectors in 2020. The telecommunications sector alone recorded a growth rate of 15.90%, representing its highest growth rate in the last 10 years. In the NBS report for Q1 2021, the ICT sector maintained its position as the fastest-growing sector of the economy. This, therefore, indicates that the Digital Economy sector has proven to be vital for the diversification of the Nigerian economy. The National Digital Economy Policy for a Digital Nigeria reflects the focus of the federal government with respect to Nigeria’s Digital Economy, which was hinged on 8 strategic pillars. And as part of the efforts aimed at implementing the Policy, some of the projects implemented nationwide include:
ICT Innovation HubsDigital Skills for Entrepreneurs and InnovatorsCommunity IT Training CentersTertiary Institution Knowledge Centers (TIKC)School Knowledge Centers (SKC), Digital Economy Centers, and Emergency Communication Centers (ECC), to mention but a few. Over 300 of these centres have been established all over the Country.24. During the period under review, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy – in order to ensure increased capacity download speed by up to 20 times and decrease latency – conducted a transparent bidding process for the provision of the 5G Network Service. Mafab Communications Ltd and MTN Nigeria Plc emerged the winners of the 3.5 gigahertz (GHz) spectrum auction.
CONCLUSION25. Gentlemen, as you can see, this Administration, in spite of daunting challenges, made tremendous progress in 2021 in fighting insecurity, growing the economy, reforming the oil sector to spur moreinvestments, emplacing world class infrastructure, providing social safety net for the poor and most vulnerable in the society and also taking advantage of the huge opportunities offered by the Informationand Communications Technology Sector. What we have done here is to highlight the major achievements, hence this is by no means exhaustive. That’s why we are also giving you a list of 100 achievements of the Buhari Administration in 2021, Success is notmeasured by the number of challenges you face, but by how you tackle the challenges. This is what the Administration has demonstrated by tackling insecurity headlong while also growing and diversifying theeconomy. We want to most sincerely thank all Nigerians for their support and perseverance. We want to reassure the nation that President Muhammadu Buhari is determined to leave a legacy of a safe,secure and prosperous nation. We urge Nigerians not to relent in supporting our security forces, who continue to make sacrifices to keep our country safe. Finally, We thank you, gentlemen of the press,for always honouring our invitation. Best wishes for a better year for all in 2022. LIST OF 100 BUHARI ADMINISTRATION’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2021
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) sets up various operations acrossthe country to enhance security. These include the Joint Task Force(JTF) North East, tagged Operation HADIN KAI covering the North Eastregion; the JTF SS, tagged Operation DELTA SAFE covering the SouthSouth region; the JTF NW, known as Operation HADARIN DAJI covering theNorth West region; Operation SAFE HAVEN covering Plateau, parts ofKaduna and Bauchi States; Operation WHIRL STROKE covering Benue,Nasarawa and Taraba States; JTF SW, referred to as Operation AWATSEand covering Lagos and Ogun States; Operation THUNDER STRIKE coveringAbuja-Kaduna Highway and Operation WHIRL PUNCH covering parts ofKaduna State.Under Operation HADIN KAI, a combination of kinetic and non-kineticoperations, coupled with a review of strategies, led to theneutralization of over 1000 terrorists, rescue of 2000 civilians andthe surrender of over 22,000 terrorists including their families.Several arms and ammunition were also recovered. This is in additionto destruction of several IED/bomb making factories of the ISWAP/BHT.Under Operation HADARIN DAJI in the North West, the conduct ofoffensive clearance operations, raids and air operations resulted inthe neutralization of about 427 bandits, arrest of 257 bandits, rescueof 897 civilians and recovery of 3,087 livestock. Similarly, OperationWHIRL PUNCH covering parts of Kaduna neutralized about 215 bandits,arrested 133 bandits, rescued 296 civilians and recovered 136livestock, while Operation THUNDER STRIKE neutralized 36 bandits,arrested 74, rescued 296 civilians and recovered 136 livestock. In theNorth Central, raids and clearance operations conducted by OperationSAFE HAVEN neutralized 91 criminal elements, arrested 155 suspects,rescued 159 civilians and recovered 3,259 livestock. For its part,Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 158 criminals, arrested 151suspects and rescued 183 civilians. Operation DELTA SAFE in theSouth-South destroyed about 1,520 illegal refineries, confiscated5,315 storage facilities and impounded 617 cotonou boats, amongstother items. Additionally, about 74,297,425 litres of Dual PurposeKerosene (DPK), 41,971,693 litres of crude oil and 88,350 litres ofPMS were recovered. Furthermore, 174 trucks and 13 vessels wereimpounded while 755 illegal oil bunkerers were arrested and 153assorted weapons recovered. In the South West, patrols and clearanceoperations by troops of Operation AWATSE led to the arrest of 46persons for various forms of criminalities while several vehicles,jerricans, motorcycles and electricity generators used for illegalbunkering were seized.. The AFN also acquired a number of platforms during the reportingperiod to raise the level of their operational readiness andefficiency, in addition to boosting their capacities. During theperiod under review, the Nigerian Army procured 160 MRAPS, 150 trucksand 60 APCs to improve its equipment holding. Various kits wereequally provided for troops. This is in addition to the provision ofaccommodation for troops and the recruitment of over 10,000 personnelinto the Army. The Nigerian Navy (NN), for its part, commissioned theFALCON EYE Maritime Domain Awareness Capability, the thirdlocally-built Seaward Defense Boat, one helicopter, 4 inshore patrolboats and 90 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats. Over 1,500 personnel wererecruited into the Navy during the year. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF)took delivery of 12 Super Tucanos and 3 JF-17 Thunder Fighter Aircraftand other platforms with which it has conducted several Airinterdictions, provided close air support to ground troops anddestroyed several illegal structures and equipment belonging toterrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.The AFN has also contributed immensely to International peace andsecurity efforts with its robust participation in the United NationsMultidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA)and the regional initiative, the ECOWAS Military Intervention inGambia (ECOMIG). The Nigerian military’s continued participation inthese Missions has ensured their viability and sustenance towardsachieving their military and political goals.5 Passage of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
6. Incorporation of NNPC limited under CAMA.
7 Entrenchment of Transparency, Accountability and PerformanceExcellence (TAPE) in NNPC.
8 Final Investment Decision on $3.6bn methanol plant in Bayelsa. Theplant, an integrated methanol and gas project in Odioma, Brass Island, Bayelsa State, which is scheduled to come into operation in 2024, is expected to produce 10,000tons of methanol daily.
9 US$260m Funding Agreement for ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited(AGPC). The project will deliver 300 million standard cubic feet of gas per day and 1,200 megawatts of electricity to the domestic market.
10 Launch of Nigerian Upstream Cost Optimization Programme (NUCOP) to drive down the cost of crude oil production in the country so as to remain competitive in the global market.
11 Award of $1.5 billion contract for Rehabilitation of Port HarcourtRefinery to Tecnimont SPA of Italy.
12 Commercialization of OML 143 Gas13 Execution of OML 118 (Bonga)Agreements between NNPC & Partners.
13 Shareholder Agreement for Brass Petroleum Product Terminal (BPPT).When completed, the BPPT will help close the infrastructure gap in thedistribution of petroleum products which will consequently stabilize petroleum product prices in the riverine communities of the NigerDelta.
14 Contract signed to build Maiduguri Emergency Power Project.
15 NNPC Posts N287 billion Profit, the first time it will record such profit in 44 years.
16 Construction/Rehabilitation of 21 Roads under FG’s RoadInfrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax CreditScheme.
17 Sustained Supply of Petroleum Products.
18 Projects carried out by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing in 2021(I) Nnewi-Uduma Road, Sections I and II (26.27km) in Enugu and Ebonyi States(II) Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II (100.08KM(Shuwarin-Azare) in Jigawa and Bauchi States(III) Kano-Maiduguri Road Section III (Azare-Potiskum)106.34km in Bauchi and Yobe States(IV) Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phase I and II(24km) in Benue and Cross River States(V) Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kontagora-Makera Road (304km)(VI) The 360-meter bridge at Ikom in Cross River Stater –completed and awaiting commissioning.(VII) The 400-meter border bridge between Nigeria andCameroon – completed and awaiting commissioning.(VIII) The 2nd Niger Bridge is 78% completed, expected to beready in November 2022:(IX) Launch of the Highway Development and ManagementInitiative (HDMI), a framework for private sector participation inroad development.(X) The policies, programmes and projects of the Ministryhave contributed to stabilizing the macro-economic situation of thecountry, particularly in job creation. The activities of the Ministryhave further contributed to the growth of other sectors of the economysuch as: –i. Mining sector through the supply of aggregates,laterite, limestone and other building materials;ii. Cement manufacturing, Bitumen (Importation); steelproduction to support construction needs;iii. Property values are reportedly appreciating by 30%-40%as a result of road transport infrastructure;iv. Demand for petroleum products like Diesel, Petrol,Lubricants and tyres has increased as a result of constructionactivities and the need to operate machines.
19 Designation of Four International Airports in Abuja, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt as Special Economic Zones, aimed at encouraging business/investment.
20 Construction and installation of Boeing 737 full-motion flight simulator at NCAT. By that, Nigeria will be saving millions of dollars spent in the retraining of pilots in other countries.
21 Installation of Fully Automated Aircraft Firefighter TrainingSimulator at NCAT, first of its kind in Africa.
22 Re-fleeting of Trainer Aircraft at NCAT. Six have since arrived.
23 Installation of novel Cat III ILS/DME at Lagos and Abuja airports.The instruments allow the flight to land at low visibility.
24 Procurement of two mobile control towers in Lagos and Abuja airports.
25 The Ministry of Aviation received provisional approval for the establishment of Aerospace University in Abuja.
26 Abuja airport received an award from Airport Council International for being the best by size and region in Africa.
27 The Ministry of Aviation, in its effort to resuscitate airstrips in the country, commissioned the construction work of Wachakal airstrip in Yobe state.
28 The Federal Government, through the Ministry, has disbursed N5billion palliative to the aviation industry in a bid to cushion the effects of COVID-19 on their operations.
29 Flag-off of the Commercial Operation of Lagos-Ibadan rail line in June 2021.
30 Launching of the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure (Also known as Deep Blue Asset).
31 MOU with Mota-Engil Group for the construction of US$1.959 billion Kano-Maradi Standard Gauge Railway lines.
32 Ground-breaking ceremony for the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction of the 2,044-km Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Eastern Narrow Gauge Railwayproject and Bonny Deep Sea and Railway Industrial Park.
33 Ground-breaking ceremony of the Kano-Kaduna Standard GaugeRail-line Modernization Project.
34 Construction of 159 Rural Water Supply Schemes in the North-East,IDP camps and some Federal Institutions and Establishments.
35 Full implementation of the Partnership for Expanded WaterSanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) programmes with the construction of926 rural water supply schemes in 12 States of Imo, Katsina, Jigawa, Plateau, Zamfara, Sokoto, Ondo, Osun, Delta, Bauchi, Kaduna and Gombe States.
36 Secured World Bank loan for the Sustainable Urban and Rural WaterSanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme in the sum of $700 million to be disbursed to eligible States.
37 The Clean Nigeria Campaign has yielded the following results in the last 12 months:(I) 71 LGAs are now Open Defecation Free. All States of the Federation except one have now flagged off the Clean Nigeria Campaign.(II) Collaboration with National Orientation Agency (NOA) resulted in the training of community mobilization officers in all 774 LGAs.Sensitization is ongoing at the ‘grassroots’ level.(III) To combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry developed and implemented the National WASH response to COVID-19 projects which include the rehabilitation of 185 Water Supply Projects (5 per State and FCT), construction of 185 solar-powered Water Supply Projects (5per State and FCT), Construction of 370 Public Sanitation Facilities(10 per State and FCT), Support to State Water Agencies for their operation to ensure uninterrupted Water Supply, Procurement of 370Contactless Handwashing Facilities with soap and sanitisers (10perState and FCT) and Engagement of 77,400 Youth Volunteers for Handwashing and Open Defecation Campaigns.
38 Twelve Dams were completed in a bid to maximize full utilization of dam infrastructure.
39 Under irrigation, so far 96,000 hectares of irrigation were developed in 2021.
40 The River Basin Development Authorities are being revitalized to deliver their mandate.
41 Creation of a total of 57,261 direct jobs and 11,588 indirect jobs through the various dam, irrigation and water supply projects completed within the reporting period.
42 The commissioning of a pilot cottage poultry processing facility at Dei Dei Livestock market in Abuja.
43 Flag-off of the 4-km Ung Wabai- un Doka Day Secondary School Asphaltic road in Makarfi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
44 Commissioning of a Communication Center and Administrative Block ofthe Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria in Abuja.
45 Rollout of the distribution of free agricultural Inputs to 7,500 Women Farmers in FCT and the North Central States.
46 Flag-off of training of 1,000 Extension Agents, comprising 30 from each state and FCT.
47 Distribution of free agricultural inputs to Smallholders Farmers in Maiduguri, Borno State to mitigate the effect of COVID-19 Pandemic.
48 Distribution of free agricultural inputs to Physically-Challenged Farmers in Maiduguri, Borno State, to mitigate the effect of COVID 19 Pandemic.
49 Commissioning of Yam Storage Facility in Nasarawa State with a storage capacity of 45-50 Metric Tons.
50 Streamlining of the guidelines for the grant of Expatriate Quota Positions and related instruments.
51 Review of the various Expatriate Quota fees, thus generating additional revenue for the Federal Government.
52 Improved on-line tracking of applications, thereby boosting Nigeria Foreign Direct Investment.
53 On-line linkage on eCitibiz platform with other MDAs like NCDMB,NIS, CAC, FIRS and other government agencies to verify documents andenhance the integrity of on-line processing of Expatriate Quota services in line with the Executive Order 1 (EQ1) for the Ease of doing Business in Nigeria.
54 Creation of Enforcement, Investigation and Inspection Unit in the Ministry of Interior to boost the fight against corruption.
55 Presidential approval of Legal Notices which allow Local Governments to conduct Statutory Marriages sequel to compliance with regulations by the Ministry, in line with the Marriage Act of 1958 as amended.
56 Approval of the National Action Plan to end statelessness in Nigeria, as required by the UN.
57 Launch of the new Visa Policy reclassifying the Visa Categories from 6 to 79.
58 Visa on Arrival to holders of Passports of African Countries.
59 Construction of a world-class technology building to manage all Nigeria Immigration Service ICT enhanced Systems, Installation of Migration
60 Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS) installed in all Airports in the country, as well as the construction and commissioning of Immigration State, Commands in Kaduna, Enugu, Sokoto.
61 Introduction of the Passport Issuance Reform, which ensured the clearing of a backlog of 96,083 Passports applications between January and September 2021.
62 Also, 42,768 standard and Visa On Arrival (VOA) were issued within this period.
63 Creation of Citizen Integrity Unit at the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps as well as training of Squad to protect schools and the deployment of over 1,500 personnel as Agro-Rangers to protect farmers in Yobe and Adamawa States in order to promote food security in the country.
64 Construction of 3,000-capacity custodian centers in the three geopolitical zones as well as the re-opening and rehabilitation of 32 correctional centers shut down due to insurgency.
65 The Nigeria Correctional Service Command Complex was recently commissioned in Osogbo, Osun State.66 Crude oil export improved considerably at N10.03 trillion, compared to N6.92 trillion, showing a growth rate of 44.93%.
67 Twenty-eight newly-procured fire engines were deployed across the country to boost emergency response.
68 Training of 25,000 constabularies in several police colleges across the country under the implementation of the community policing initiative.
69 Four hundred and eighteen Cadet officers of regular course 3 were successfully graduated in June 2021 and deployed into the operational asset of the Nigeria Police Force.
70 Police Public Complaints Committee (PPCC) was inaugurated as a permanent structure that will help to effectively nip in the bud civil unrest and serve as an opportunity for Nigerians to channel their grievances on the misconduct of police personnel.
71 Establishment of the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS).WAPIS connects member countries in a platform for shared intelligenceutilization, mutual cooperation, and exchange of expertise.
72 Federal Executive Council approval for the Police SpecializedServices Automation Project (Po-SSAP). It is envisaged that in the medium- and long-term period, the project will deliver economic benefits and improved efficiencies as follows:a. Special protection services for the Oil and Gas andTelecommunication sectors.b. Special protection and Guards’ services for the banking and financial services sector.c. Special protection and guards’ services for Hospitality, RealEstate, and Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors.d. Special protection to politically-exposed persons (PEPs), high networth individuals, and large corporations.
73 The Police Trust Fund procured 200 Buffalo branded vehicles,bulletproof vest, protective helmets, drugs, and medical equipment as well as arms and ammunition, riot control equipment, and combat equipment for the Police Special Weapon and Tactical Squad (SWAT).
74 The Ministry of Police Affairs entered into a contract agreement for the supply of police Anti-Riot Equipment with Poly Technology ofChina through a Government-to-Government arrangement at a cost of 44million U.S Dollars.75 The Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning generatedN1.53 trillion from Value Added Tax (VAT). Some N496.4 billion was generated from VAT in the first three months of 2021, the highest in nine years.
76 The Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning has maintained the January-December Budget cycle with the support of members of the National Assembly.
77 Perfected the implementation of e-Customs Limited. This is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) with the sole objective of implementing the 20-year concession for the Presidential Initiatives on Customs Modernization (e-Customs Project).
78 Implementation of the Economic Sustainable Plan (ESP) approved bythe Federal Executive Council (FEC) last year.
79 The economy’s Exit from recession, an indication that the FederalGovernment’s fiscal policies and diversification of the economy effortis yielding results.
80 Development and launch of the Federal Government’s Medium-Term and Long-Term National Development Plan, known as ”Nigeria Agenda
50”, for the next generation.
81 The partnership of the Ministry and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to support Nigerian Farmers and vulnerable small-scale farmers in the seven northern states was boosted with N342m.
82 Gradual repayment of national debts – both domestic and external.
83 Through the economic and recovery policies put in place by the ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, the economy has gradually recovered from the negative effects of the COVID -19 global pandemic.
84 Cashless Economy is recording further boost as the value of electronic payment transactions rose year-on-year (YoY) by N9.7trillion or 80% to N21.9 trillion in 2020, from N12.2 trillion in2019.
85 During the period under review, the Consolidated Revenue Fund and Forex Trade doubled as a result of the economic and recovery policies put in place by the Ministry. 86 During the period under review, both the GDP growth was sustained,pressure on balance of payments abated while the Ministry continued to ensure that Forex shortage resulting in pressure on the Naira was brought to manageable level.
87 Expansion of N-Power from 500,000 to 1 million beneficiaries.
88 Restructuring of the Government Enterprise and EmpowermentProgramme (GEEP) to GEEP 2.0. The revamped GEEP 2.0 was officially launched on 24th August 2021 and has successfully registered over six hundred thousand potential beneficiaries in all the 774 LGAsnationwide
89 National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) now providing meals to nearly 10,000,000 school children nationwide. The program has further empowered over 100,000 cooks and over 100,000small holder farmers in the local areas where the schools are located while creating employment opportunities across sectors such as transportation and manufacturing.
90 The Household Uplifting Programme (HUP), which has as its flagship the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) has covered all the 36 States and FCT. A total of 1,676,799 eligible households across the country are enrolled into the CCT intervention and benefiting from the monthly N5,000 grant. Due to the pandemic outbreak and the directive of Mr. President to further expand the National Social Register and the CCT,the Ministry designed the Rapid Response Register (RRR) especially for COVID 19 Cash Transfer targeting 1 million Urban Poor.
91 The National Digital Economy Policy for a Digital Nigeria reflects the focus of the Federal Government with respect to Nigeria’s Digital Economy which was hinged on 8 strategic pillars. As part of the efforts aimed at implementing the Policy, some of the projects implemented nationwide include:(I) ICT Innovation Hubs(II) Digital Skills for Entrepreneurs and Innovators(III) Community IT Training Centers(IV) Tertiary Institution Knowledge Centers (TIKC)(V) School Knowledge Centers (SKC), Digital Economy Centers, and Emergency Communication Centers (ECC), to mention but a few. Over 300 of these centers have been established all over the Country.
92 The issues of National Identification Number and that of unregistered/improperly-registered SIM cards have been addressed. This has led to:
(i) Significant increase in the National Identification Number (NIN)Enrolments and Enrolment Centers. The current number of monthly enrollments has increased significantly from less than 50,000 to over2.6 million registrations (more than 500% increase).(ii) There has also been a remarkable increase in the number of enrolment centers across the country, with about 3,800 centers now available for enrollments.
93 Increase in Broadband Penetration from about 33% in August 2019 toabout 45.07% in November 2020, an increase of about 10% in a year.
94 Significant drop in the cost of 1GB of broadband from N1,200 inAugust 2019 to N487.18 in November 2020.
95 Selection of Nigeria for the Chairmanship and position of the Executive Secretary of the West Africa Telecom Regulators Assembly(WATRA) on the 10th of March 2021.
96 Creation of 2 Virtual Institutes and training of about 210,000Nigerians, many of whom received certifications.
97 Among the ICT Centers that have been developed, completed and commissioned nationwide are:(i) Emergency Communication Centers;(ii) Digital Economy Centers;(iii) ICT Hubs;(iv) IT Innovation and Incubation Park;(v) Tertiary Institution Knowledge Centers;(vi) School Knowledge Centers;(vii) E-Accessibility Centers;(viii) E-Accessibility; and(ix) ICT Community Centers among others.In each state of the Federation, at least five centers have been completed and commissioned.
98 Successful bidding process to select the companies that will provide 5G network service
The recovery of the economy remained on a steady path throughout the year 2021. For example, the country’s domestic growth in the first three quarters of 2021 was positive, recording real GDP of 0.51 percent in Q1, 5.01 percent in Q2 and 4.03 percent in Q3 2021, This was an improvement from a declining performance in the first three quarters of 2020 (which led to economic recession) put at 1.87 percent in Q1, -6.10 percent in Q2 and -3.62 percent in Q3 2020. This economic performance in 2021 shows a steady improvement in growth over the last three quarters of 2020 arising from government policies and strategies such as the Economic Sustainability Plan; N500 billion COVID-19 Crisis Intervention Fund etc. 100. The inflation rate has continued to decline on a year-on-year basis since April 2021 when 18.12% was recorded. Looking at the trend, a declining rate was recorded from 17.93% in May to 17.01% in August, 15.99% in October and 15.40% TEXT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND CULTURE, ALHAJI LAI MOHAMMED, IN LAGOS ON THURSDAY, 30 DEC, 2021 TO SHOWCASE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE BUHARI ADMINISTRATION DURING THE OUTGOING YEAR 2021Gentlemen, good morning, and thanks for honouring our invitation to this press conference which, in line with our tradition, we have called to brief you on the achievements of the Buhari Administration in 2021. In view of the long list of achievements and time constraints, we will go straight into the highlights and then provide you with a fuller list.
2. Let me admit straight away that the year has not been devoid of challenges. For the outgoing year in particular, the major challenge has been that of insecurity. In spite of this and the usual economic challenges, especially the dwindling resources available to the government, the Administration has availed itself creditably, as we will be demonstrating shortly.
3. As I said in my introductory remarks, our biggest challenge in the outgoing year is in the area of security. Despite the enormity of the challenge, our military has continued to live up to their billing. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their patriotism and sacrifice. We just can’t appreciate them enough, as you will soon see when I break down their achievements in the year under review.
FIGHT AGAINST INSECURITY4. To keep our country safe, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has set up various operations across the country. These include the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, tagged Operation HADIN KAI covering theNorth East region; the JTF SS, tagged Operation DELTA SAFE covering the South-South region; the JTF NW, known as Operation HADARIN DAJIcovering the North West region; Operation SAFE HAVEN covering Plateau, parts of Kaduna and Bauchi States; Operation WHIRL STROKE covering Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States; JTF SW, referred to as Operation AWATSE and covering Lagos and Ogun States; Operation THUNDER STRIKE covering Abuja-Kaduna Highway and Operation WHIRL PUNCH covering parts of Kaduna State.
5. Gentlemen, in the North East Zone under Operation HADIN KAI, a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic operations, coupled with a review of strategies, led to the neutralization of over 1000terrorists, rescue of 2000 civilians and the surrender of over 22,000 terrorists including their families. Many arms and ammunition were also recovered. This is in addition to the destruction of several IED/bomb-making factories of the ISWAP/BHT. Under Operation HADARIN DAJI in the North West, the conduct of offensive clearance operations, raids and air operations resulted in the neutralization of about 427 bandits, arrest of 257 bandits, rescue of 897 civilians and recovery of 3,087 livestock. Similarly, Operation WHIRL PUNCH covering parts of Kaduna neutralized about 215 bandits, arrested 133 bandits, rescued 296 civilians and recovered 136 livestock, while Operation THUNDER STRIKE neutralized 36 bandits, arrested 74, rescued 296 civilians and recovered 136 livestock. In the North Central, raids and clearance operations conducted by Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized 91 criminal elements, arrested 155 suspects, rescued 159 civilians and recovered 3,259 livestock. For its part, Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 158 criminals, arrested 151 suspects and rescued 183 civilians. OperationDELTA SAFE in the South-South destroyed about 1,520 illegal refineries, confiscated 5,315 storage facilities and impounded 617 boats, amongst other items. Additionally, about 74,297,425 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), 41,971,693 litres of crude oil and 88,350 litres of PMS were recovered. Furthermore, 174 trucks and 13 vessels were impounded while 755 illegal oil bunkerers were arrested and 153 assorted weapons recovered. In the South West, patrols and clearance operations by troops of Operation AWATSE led to the arrest of 46persons for various forms of criminalities while several vehicles, jerricans, motorcycles and electricity generators used for illegal bunkering were seized..
6. The effectiveness of the military was enhanced by the leadership provided by President Muhammadu Buhari and the unwavering commitment of the armed forces and its leadership. The procurement of modern platforms for the armed forces has also gone a long way in raising the level of their operational readiness and efficiency, in addition to boosting their capabilities. During the period under review, the Nigerian Army procured 160 MRAPS, 150 trucks and 60 APCs to improve its equipment holding. Various kits were equally provided for troops. This is in addition to the provision of accommodation for troops and the recruitment of over 10,000 personnel into the Army. The Nigerian Navy (NN), for its part, commissioned the FALCON EYE Maritime Domain Awareness Capability, the third locally-built Seaward Defense Boat, one helicopter, 4 inshore patrol boats and 90 Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats. Over 1,500 personnel were recruited into the Navy during the year. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) took delivery of 12 Super Tucanos and 3 JF-17 Thunder Fighter Aircraft and other platforms with which it has conducted several Air interdictions, provided close air support to ground troops and destroyed several illegal structures and equipment belonging to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
7. The Armed Forces of Nigeria has also contributed immensely to International peace and security efforts with its robust participation in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the regional initiative, the ECOWAS Military Intervention in Gambia (ECOMIG). The Nigerian military’s continued participation in these Missions has ensured their viability and sustenance towards achieving their military and political goals. Overall, the good news is that the military, in spite of its achievements, is not resting on its oars. The Military has assured that it is also poised, in fulfilment of its constitutional duties, to address the myriad of evolving contemporary threats, particularly as the 2023 elections draw nearer.
8. Still on the fight against insecurity, the implementation of the community policing initiative of the current administration has led to the training of 25,000 constabularies in several police colleges across the country. The successful officers who were trained on basic police duties, modern intelligence gathering techniques, rule of law, etc. were deployed to their Local Governments of Origin to aid in intelligence gathering and improve police visibility in their communities. Also, in an effort to improve the police/citizens ratio, 418 Cadet officers of regular course 3 were successfully graduated in June 2021 and deployed into the operational asset of the Nigeria Police Force. Through the Police Trust Fund, 200 Buffalo branded vehicles, bulletproof vest, protective helmets, drugs, and medical equipment as well as arms and ammunition, riot control equipment, andcombat equipment were procured for the Police Special Weapon and Tactical Squad (SWAT). The Ministry of Police Affairs has also entered into a contract agreement for the supply of police Anti Riot Equipment with Poly Technology of China through a Government-to-Government arrangement at a cost of 44 million U.S. Dollars. This equipment will go a long way in boosting the capacity of the police to control civil unrest in the most efficient and civil manner.
ECONOMY
9. The recovery of the economy remained on a steady path throughout the year 2021. As you are aware, gentlemen, many countries around the world face unprecedented challenges, starting from 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and Nigeria is no exception. The Nigerian economy was hit by the pandemic in mid- 2020, and the economic disruptions led to a recession. The poor performance of the economy during the COVID-19 era affected output growth, trade, household welfare and livelihood. However, this led to a quick response by the federal government with the rolling out of effective fiscal and monetary policies as well as health-related policies intended to curb the spread of the pandemic and mitigate the negative impact of the pandemic on the economy. This has yielded considerable results. For example, the country’s domestic growth in the first three quarters of 2021 was positive, recording real GDP of 0.51 percent in Q1, 5.01 percent in Q2 and 4.03 percent in Q3 2021, This was an improvement from a declining performance in the first three quarters of 2020 (which led to economic recession) put at 1.87 percent in Q1, -6.10 percent in Q2 and -3.62 percent in Q3 2020. Nevertheless, the fourth quarter 2020 recorded a slight improvement of 0.11 percent, ushering in positive growth rates in the three quarters of 2021. This economic performance in 2021 shows a steady improvement in growth over the last three quarters of 2020, and this can be attributed to government policies and strategies such as the Economic Sustainability Plan; the N500 billion COVID 19 Crisis Intervention Fund etc.
10. In the oil sector, real growth shows poorer performance in 2021, recording 2.21% (year-on-year) in Q1 2021, -12.65% in Q2 2021 and –10.73% in Q3 2021, from stronger growth of 5.06% in Q1 2020, -6.63% in Q2 2020, and -13.89% in Q3 2020. However, oil production in million barrel per day continued to decline in 2021, from 2.07mbpd in Q1 2020,1.81mbpd in Q2 2020, 1.67mbpd in Q3 2020 to 1.72mbpd in Q1 2021, 1.61mbpd in Q2 2021 and 1.57mbpd in Q3 2021. Non-oil sector indicated better performance of 0.79% in Q1 2021, 6.74% in Q2 2021 and 5.44% in Q3 2021, compared to 1.55% in Q1 2020, -6.05% in Q2 2020, and -2.51% in Q3 2020. In Foreign Trade, Nigeria witnessed dwindling performance in 2020, arising from trade restrictions on accounts of COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions of trading activities driven by the pandemic further weakened the balance of trade witnessed in Q4 2019 in the subsequent quarters. Consequently, total imports in the first three quarters of 2021 rose by 57.13%, from N13.97 in the corresponding quarters of 2020 to N21.95 trillion. Similarly, total exports grew by40.62%, which was N13.12 trillion in the first three quarters of 2021, compared to N9.33trillion in the corresponding period, an indication of improved trading activities although with a deficit position. Over the same period crude oil export improved considerably at N10.03 trillion, compared to N6.92 trillion, showing a growth rate of 44.93%, while Non-oil exports grew by 21.17% – from N1.19trillion to N1.44trillion over the same period. The inflation rate has continued to decline on a year-on-year basis since April 2021 when 18.12% was recorded. Looking at the trend, a declining rate was recorded from 17.93% in May to 17.01% in August, 15.99% in October and 15.40% in November 2021. It is projected that proper implementation of the proposed 2022 project of N17.13trillion, and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework & Fiscal Strategy Paper2022-2024 are likely to improve the performance of the economy.. Also, judicious implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act will likely improve oil production/sales stability; relatively high oil prices will enhance revenue performance and budget implementation while strengthening security will improve output growth of the economy.
OIL AND GAS SECTOR
Undoubtedly one of the greatest achievements of the Administration in 2021, and indeed in the past several decades, was recorded in the oil and gas sector, a sector very critical to the nation’s economic well-being