Nigeria

Shady Business in Nigeria

A recent development in oil-rich Nigeria has all but been overlooked in recent news coverage as the violence in Kenya continues to garner most media attention. The forced leave of absence of an anti-corruption chairman in Nigeria could lead to tensions and international implications similar to those unfolding in Kenya.

Nigeria's failure to encourage positive and widespread development is often attributed to heavy corruption within its governing bodies. Corruption is blamed for the loss of millions in oil revenues; money that is critical for the country to address issues like rampant poverty and a failing infrastructure. Nigeria has great potential to be a positive model for other African countries in the area of international trade and population management. Its success in these areas, though, are directly linked to whether or not Nigeria can curb its corruption problems.

Shock, outrage and, in some quarters, relief, greeted news that Nuhu Ribadu was being sent on a year-long training course in the midst of launching the biggest graft prosecutions ever seen in Nigeria, perhaps in Africa. Although far from universally popular, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was credited with doing the most to bring some of the country’s hitherto untouchable politicians to book.

From the Archives

A "Desert Refrigerator" Improves Lives in Nigeria

Previously filed under: Africa, Technology
Rolex Award winner Mohammad Bah Abba's Pot-in-Pot cooling system is helping subsistence farmers in northern Nigeria by reducing food spoilage and thus increasing their income

From the Archives

Let Them Eat Laptops

Previously filed under: Opinions and Editorials
The investment that countries will make in the 100 USD laptop program could draw away millions of dollars from governments with very limited resources.

From the Archives

Science Needs Effective Democracy to Thrive

Previously filed under: Africa, Opinions and Editorials
Last month's presidential elections in Nigeria have cast a shadow over the country's efforts to promote science and technology.

From the Archives

Crude Poverty

Countries: Liberia
Previously filed under: Africa, General Globalization
Many African communities with oil riches under their soil still face poverty.

Stories We're Watching

As Africa's consumers rise, so does inequality

Yale Global Online - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 10:17
Kenya struggles to spread the wealth from rapid growth.

U.N. says famine in Somalia over, but risks remain

New York Times - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 22:56
A bumper harvest and a surge in emergency food aid have ended a famine in Somalia that killed tens of thousands of people, the United Nations said on Friday.

Looking forward, Fiji turns to its canoeing past

International Herald Tribune - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 23:27
The traditional canoe is at the center of several projects aimed at reducing Fiji’s energy consumption, providing islanders with cheaper transport, keeping local traditions alive, and giving a boost to tourism.

The 6 questions that lead to new innovations

Fast Company's Co.Exist - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 07:00
It is often said that innovation is at the core of sustainability, but turning that abstract idea into action isn’t always easy. How do true innovators actually make the leap from status quo to full-on disruption?

Brazil deepens strategic cooperation with Cuba

Inter Press Service - development - Mon, 02/06/2012 - 12:11
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff's visit to Cuba served to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, leverage the South American giant's investments in the Caribbean island, and deepen political ties.

Recent comments

Countries

An initiative of Mercy Corps
“You must be the change
you wish to see in the world”
Mahatma Gandhi
Learn more about Mercy Corps >

Efficiency

Over the last five years, more than 89% of Mercy Corps' resources have been allocated directly to programs

Excellence

America's premier charity evaluator gives Mercy Corps four stars in organizational efficiency. Click here to learn more.

High Value

Every dollar you donate to Mercy Corps helps us secure $11.16 in donated food and other critical supplies.

Mercy Corps — Dept. W — 45 SW Ankeny — Portland, OR 97204
All original content Copyright © 2009 Mercy Corps. Quoted and linked content is property of the creator(s). Mercy Corps will not sell, rent or trade your personal information.