Interview
China should tell the world its own story—Bala

Ambassador Muhamed Gusao Bala is former Nigeria Consul General to Hong Kong, in this interview with Bright Osasuyi, our Correspondent in Abuja, he speaks on the need to deepen Nigeria China relationship, his tour of duty in Hong Kong and other issues.
Quetion:
What is your impression of Hong Kong as former consul-general of Nigeria in Hong Kong?
Answer:
I stayed in Hong Kong for two years only and these were years of learning much more than I have experienced elsewhere. It was my first contact with ‘One country, two systems’ being practiced. Earlier on before I traveled, I thought it was something very impossible to harmonize when you have a communist system and capitalist system but during weeks of stay in Hong Kong, I discovered that if there is will, anything is possible. What I think about current happenings in Hong Kong is that maybe, the younger generation is not much aware of its history but the older generation which came through thick and thin is very much aware of the situation in Hong Kong. China recognizes the importance of Hong Kong as an ‘Island of Prosperity’ therefore the younger ones should begin to align themselves with the system of Hong Kong. Every country has its own system and for it to work, there should be cooperation and understanding and for Hong Kong issues, education and enlightenment of the younger ones in Hong Kong is key. I say Education and Enlightenment because even though Hong Kong is high in level of education, there has to be enlightenment of the younger ones to avoid them being brainwashed by fallacies.
Question:
What is the root cause of Hong Kong Problems?
Answer:
The root cause of Hong Kong problems is the misunderstanding between the younger generation and older generation as I earlier said.
Question: Do you think other countries want to interfere with the Internal Affairs of China?
Answer:
Well I cannot say yes because I have not seen it myself but going by what I have read in the media, then I think there are some elements of interference but the truth is that once the younger generation realize that if they destroy Hong Kong, no foreigner will repair it for them then they will act to keep it in good shape.
Questjon:
What do you think of the National Security Law recently passed by China’s Central government?
Answer:
I am not very conversant with the National security law because I had already left China when the law was enacted.
Question:
Recently, many western countries led by the U.S have made bad remarks about the National Security Law for Hong Kong. What do you think is the reason for these actions by the U.S and the Western countries at large?
Answer:
There is a popular saying that there can be no two masters in a system, of which the United States sees itself as sole superpower which they are and have been for almost 50 years since the fall of the Soviet empire. So, for such a nation to see another emerging power, it is just human nature for U.S to resent it so this is not surprising if the U.S is interfering as you said, since China to them is now seen as a competitor.
Question:
What actions should the Chinese government take to deal with the actions of the U.S and the Western countries in general?
Answer:
China should also come out powerfully to enlighten the world about what is happening in China. China should tell the world its own story. I am very happy with what Chinese press is actually doing because there is this particular channel I watch on Digital Satellite Television, DSTV where the Chinese media comes out to tell the world about occurrences in China. Why I am more gladdened by the Chinese media is that they do not tarnish the image of other countries, but only project the situation of things in China as it breaks. It is now left to the individuals listening or watching to deduce meanings and find out which information being spread by the Chinese and U.S is true. I would advise China to go all out and make sure they have much reach to inform the world about the events in China.
Question:
How would you evaluate China’s effort in the fight against COVID-19?
Answer:
To be sincere, no one can fault China because the first day the virus was mentioned was the very day the Chinese government went all out in its fight against COVID-19. I can remember that a COVID-19 hospital was built within a very short time and the whole of Wuhan area was contained within a short time. China’s population is very large and if prompt actions were not taken, COVID-19 would have been a greater problem to the world than it currently is. Not only that, China began to send medicaments and auxiliary doctors to almost everywhere. I can remember that Nigeria benefited from the auxiliary medical doctors and medical facilities being sent to us and I am sure such assistance was also sent to as many countries that required them. I am very much thankful to China, especially for its prompt action to fight the virus otherwise the story would have been completely different.
Que: On June17, 2020 there was a special summit between China and African countries in which President Xi Jinping promised to support African countries to fight COVID-19 by setting up centers for disease control and hospitals in Africa. How do you rate the action of China in supporting Africa in a time of pandemic?
I am no longer in the government as consul-general and the system has changed. The only way to go about supporting Nigeria and Africa, as a whole is to communicate through our embassies in China. We have consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong being manned by foreign service personnel so whatever assistance China is willing to offer to Nigeria is better being taken bilaterally since we have embassies.
Question :
What other cooperation should China and Nigeria take to help reduce the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Answer:
Already we have started this cooperation for long and Nigeria in particular has received loans and grants from China to help its economy. One assistance I would want from China is to encourage more scholarships for Nigerians to study Sciences, Languages and other disciplines in China as well as Chinese students coming to Nigeria to study. That way we can both learn each other’s cultures and share from the technology of both countries’ education. The Chinese government should also maintain the symbiotic relationship with Nigeria which shares a lot in common with China in terms of population, size, and lots more. If we can harmonize ourselves then we can achieve a lot more together.
Question:
What interesting events happened to you and your family during your stay in China?
Answer:
There are so many memorable events of China that I cannot mention all of but to give an insight, there was a time the foreign ministry in Hong Kong organized a trip to China for Head of Consulates which I was part of and amongst us was a special representative of China in Hong Kong. During this trip, we were taken throughout lengths and breadths of China for two weeks. One thing I came to appreciate is the hospitality of Chinese citizens such that we became so occupied with events that made us really enjoy our trip. I had read a lot about China but the firsthand experience gained through that trip was overwhelming. I went to Hong Kong as consul-general in 2017 and even though I have returned to Nigeria, because of the hospitality of Chinese, I was comfortable leaving my daughter behind to study in Changsha Medical university and she is enjoying her stay there.
Interview
INTERVIEW:Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills Are The Best For Nigeria Now-Mikko

Honorable Bernard Mikko, a former member of the House of Representatives from Ogoni, Rivers State from 1999-2003 spoke to ourcorrespondent the merits of the Federal Governments fiscal and economic policies, especially the controversies surrounding the tax reform bills.
Excerpts:
- The Federal Government has introduced far reaching economic reforms, the latest being the four tax reform bills, which seems to be generating controversies, what is your take on the fiscal and economic policies of the Tinubu administration generally?
(1)The Federal Government is an APC government that succeeded itself. From President Muhammadu Buhari to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu. They both campaigned on the change mantra, and the president vowed to continue from where his predecessor stopped. After sixteen years of the PDP administration, Nigerians were desperately in the mood for change. Including the change of economic, social, and political well-being of the people. The APC touted itself as that agent of change. Politics and political leadership set economic renewals and growth, even as the former dwindles, while the latter will still be subsisting. Change, they say, is inevitable in an active society. The tax reform bill is a major policy instrument for socio-economic change. It defines the essence of commitment to our unity, political development, and economic growth. As you know change anywhere in the world comes with innitial pains, apprehension and fear, it creates anxiety and generates controversies, sometimes founded on primordial identities and filial pieties and cleavages, particularly in diverse and multi racial societies like Nigeria. Interestingly, controversy is the nature of politics, and expectedly so in Nigeria, with the introduction of the four tax reform bills as a measure of the fiscal policy of the new administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu
- Let us talk about the tax reform bills in particular. Would you say they are timely, given the socio- economic realities of the country?
(2) Nigeria inherited a colonial administration based imperial adventure and exploitation. Economic development and social welfare weren’t on the agenda of the colonial regime. Since 1933, there hasn’t been any major tax reform or fiscal policy that will put Nigeria on the path of economic growth and development. So, the reform isn’t only timely but long overdue. With hindsight, there could be no other time than now as time waits for no one. Anytime is God’s time. - But some sections of the country expressed reservations about the bills, alleging that they were targeted to estrange them. Taking a critical look at the bills, is it possible that any one of them may tend to target a particular section of the country?
(3) The so-called reservations expressed by some sections of the country are generally a symptom of the geopolitical nature of our country. Anytime the political leadership of the country is from one section, the opposite section appears to be nervous, sometimes in mischief. Looking at the gradients of the bills, I would say that the economy and the general well-being of the people are the target. But looking critically at the data from NBS provided by the Chairman of the Tax reform committee, Lagos and Rivers states appear to be on losing side, falling from over 80% threshold in the current tax regime to less than 15% in the envisaged fiscal policy administration. This is one of the sacrifices we have to make as a nation going forward, to be our brothers’ keeper in time of need and support. - The Senate had earlier passed the bills for second reading, only to suddenly turn around and set up a committee that will study the bills’ advice on their desirablility or not. As a former lawmaker, would you say the manner with which the bills are being handled are procedurally correct?
(4) The suspension of legislative action on bills by the Senate is strange, authoritarian, and undemocratic. In civilised parliamentary debates, critical stakeholders will be encouraged to present their views , which would enable parliamentary committees to reach a near consensus or cause a vote on clause by clause basis. The Senate presiding officer acted in error by suspending further legislative action and abdicating her constitutional responsibility to the executive arm that formulated the bills and sent them to the National Assembly. In proper parliamentary procedures, once a bill is introduced and read for the second time, it can’t be suspended based on speculations or sentiments expressed outside the chambers but can be withdrawn by the president in consultation with the leadership of the National Assembly. As a politician with cognate parliamentary experience, if the Senate in particular or the National Assembly in general is unable to carry out their functions of law making and representation, let the bills be withdrawn for the executive to conduct a referendum on the desirability of taxation as a major policy item on exclusive list in our Constitution. In this context, states, principalities, and regional governments would be a position to determine their fiscal priorities based on their culture and socio-economic understanding.
- Given the contro easy the bills seem to be generating, what would you suggest as the best approach to solving this serming quagmire?
(5) Political debates in most times ignite tensions and controversy. Stakeholders should engage in healthy debate with empirical data to support their claims. Without data and facts, it’ll amount to speculation and mischief. My suggestions are:
(a) allow full parliamentary debates without hindrance in the National Assembly.
(b) If the National Assembly is unwilling to continue deliberation on the bills timeously( as in the case of the Petroleum Industry Bill that lasted over 20 years in the the National Assembly), the bills should be withdrawn, and the issue of taxation presented directly to the Nigerian people through a referendum, not through our representatives in the National Assembly.
- Some analysts feel that the general mood of the country could make President Bola Ahmed Tinibus re- election in 2027 suffer as a result of these bills in particular. Do you think that could be the case?
(6) The bait of possible scenarios in the next general election is highly speculative and apparently mischievous. It takes a committed and courageous leader to move a nation out of economic quagmire, and such decisions are unpopular and painful. Patriotic leaders make painful decisions and not smear campaigns that would be appreciated decades later. Our heritage and prosperity provide the foundation of our power, not docile followship, weak leadership, or a fragmented population.
Interview
Kekere-Ekun Appears Before Senate for Screening, Vows to Tackle Corruption

The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has vowed to implement a zero-tolerance policy against corruption in the judiciary. She emphasized her commitment to integrity and strict adherence to judicial ethics as fundamental aspects of her judicial philosophy.
During her screening before the Senate, Kekere-Ekun assured lawmakers that, if confirmed, she would prioritize the swift adjudication of cases, particularly election petitions. She promised to shield the judiciary from external influences and advocated for enhanced welfare and infrastructure for judicial officers.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also stressed the importance of strengthening national institutions and promoting responsible behavior during elections. She highlighted that these improvements could help reduce the tendency to challenge election results in court.
The Senate commenced the screening process for Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun for the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria on Wednesday. Prior to the screening, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) moved a motion to reorder the day’s agenda to prioritize her screening. The motion was seconded by Deputy Minority Leader Senator Oyewumi Olalere (PDP, Osun West).
Justice Kekere-Ekun, accompanied by justices from the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, arrived at the Senate Chamber at 12:30 PM. Senator Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, led her into the chamber following the invocation of Order 12 of the Senate’s Standing Orders by Senator Bamidele, which was seconded by Senator Olalere.
On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu submitted a letter to the Senate, seeking the confirmation of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. The letter, read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, highlighted the President’s nomination in accordance with Section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which mandates the President to appoint the CJN on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and subject to Senate confirmation.
The letter stated: “Pursuant to Section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which gives the President the power to appoint the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as CJN. I hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration of the Senate.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria on August 23, 2024, by President Tinubu at the State House, Abuja. She is the second female to hold the position, following Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar (CJN from July 2012 to November 2014). Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Justice Kekere-Ekun began her legal career at the University of Lagos, where she earned her law degree in 1980, and was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981.
Interview
Inspiring Strategic Agility and Leading Successful Change

Ambassador Charles Crawford, an Oxford and Harvard-trained British Diplomat and former British Ambassador to Bosnia and Poland, is renowned for inspiring leaders worldwide to navigate the complexities of geopolitics and volatility. His insights will be shared at the upcoming TEXEM UK Programme, “Strategic Agility and Inspiring Change: Fuelling Sustainable Success,” from August 26 to 29 at Hilton Liverpool.
Lessons from Diplomatic Experience
Drawing on his experience in post-communist Europe and post-conflict reconciliation, Crawford emphasizes that leaders must be adaptable in rapidly changing environments. Reflecting on the challenges faced during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, he advises against complacency, reminding business leaders that favorable market conditions may not last forever. His key lesson: optimism must be balanced with realism.
Leadership Strategies in Volatile Regions
Crawford highlights the importance of understanding both the opportunities and risks of leading in turbulent times. Leaders must be ambitious yet cautious, acknowledging that change initiatives often create winners and losers. He shares a poignant example from Serbia, where underestimating opposition led to tragic consequences. This lesson underscores the need for careful consideration of both allies and adversaries when leading change.
Strategic Agility in Business and Diplomacy
While diplomacy often emphasizes patience and method over agility, Crawford notes that taking smart risks is crucial in both fields. He challenges leaders to balance agility with caution, ensuring that quick decisions do not lead to unforeseen pitfalls. The TEXEM programme will delve into actionable strategies for embracing strategic agility in business, drawing parallels with diplomatic agility.
Communication and Leadership
Effective communication is central to inspiring change. Crawford, with his experience as a speechwriter for world leaders, underscores the importance of motivating followers through words. Leaders should focus not just on sharing information but also on challenging assumptions and encouraging new ways of thinking. Engaging speeches that provoke thought can be more impactful than those offering simple answers.
Learning from Historical Transitions
Crawford’s experiences during the fall of communism and apartheid offer valuable lessons for today’s leaders. He emphasizes the importance of trust and making hard choices in times of chaos. Through the TEXEM programme, participants will gain insights into how historical leaders navigated such challenges and how these lessons can be applied to modern corporate settings.
The programme promises to equip leaders with practical tools and fresh perspectives to navigate change and drive sustainable success.
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