Events that Defined Nigeria, the World in 2024
As the year 2024 comes to a close, Nigerians and people around the world are reflecting on the events that shaped the past 12 months. From politics and economy to entertainment, sports, and religion, 2024 was a year of significant happenings that will be etched in our memories for a long time. In this article, Sunday Ehigiator takes a look at some of the most unforgettable events in Nigeria and around the world that shaped 2024
The year 2024 has been a transformative period marked by unprecedented developments across the globe, including Nigeria. Every aspect of human endeavour, from business and politics to technology and entertainment, has witnessed significant events that have reshaped our world.
As the year unfolded, the world grappled with a multitude of challenges, including climate change, economic uncertainty, insecurity, and social unrest. These pivotal events have had a profound impact on our attitudes, relationships, and beliefs, influencing the way we live, work, and interact with one another.
The effects of these events will be felt for years to come, shaping the course of our lives and the world at large. Hence, the following sections are highlights of some of the most significant events of 2024 that have left an indelible mark on our world.
Kuriga mass kidnapping
In Kuriga, Kaduna State, over 100 students were kidnapped earlier this year. The mass abduction sparked widespread outrage and concern across Nigeria, with many citizens demanding improved security measures to safeguard schools and students. It also served as a stark reminder of the persistent insecurity challenges plaguing Nigeria, particularly in the northern region.
The kidnapping had a profound impact on the education sector and the well-being of students. Eyewitnesses reported that residents were helpless to intervene, fearing that any attempt to confront the kidnappers could result in harm to the students. Despite the bravery of local security personnel and residents, who armed themselves in a bid to rescue the students, they were ultimately forced to watch as the kidnappers escaped with their captives.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery commenced operation
After decades of reliance on imported petroleum products, Nigeria has finally broken free from this dependence thanks to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. With a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, this refinery has commenced operations this year, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy history.
For the first time in decades, Nigerians have access to petroleum products refined within the country, a development that is expected to save the country billions of dollars in importation costs.
The journey to this point was not without its challenges, as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and other vested interests attempted to scuttle the project. However, the Dangote Group persevered, and their efforts have paid off.
The refinery’s operations are expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy, including reducing the country’s reliance on imported fuel and lowering fuel prices.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery is a game-changer for Nigeria’s energy sector, and its impact will be felt for years to come. With its state-of-the-art facilities and massive production capacity, this refinery is set to become a major player in the global energy market.
Band A, Band B, freezer drama
The announcement by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on April 3, 2024, to increase electricity tariffs for Band A customers by 230.8 per cent left many Nigerians stunned.
The timing of the announcement, just a day after ‘April Fool’s Day’, had many people wondering if it was a prank. However, the reality soon sunk in, and the news sparked widespread outrage on social media.
The proposed tariff increase would see Band A customers, who enjoy up to 20 hours of electricity daily, being billed ₦225 per kilowatt hour (kWh) instead of the current ₦68 per kWh.
According to NERC, the increase was aimed at reducing the government’s electricity subsidy burden, which was estimated to cost ₦3.13 trillion in 2024. The commission claimed that the tariff increase would reduce the government’s subsidy payment by 63.58 per cent, to ₦1.14 trillion.
Nigerians were already reeling from the removal of fuel subsidies, and the proposed electricity tariff increase was seen as another blow to their finances.
To make matters worse, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, suggested that Nigerians should conserve energy by turning off their freezers periodically.
This advice was met with widespread criticism, with many Nigerians expressing frustration and disappointment at the government’s handling of the country’s energy crisis.
Black woman leads a major party in Britain
Kemi Badenoch, a British politician of Nigerian descent, made history by becoming the first black woman to lead the Conservative Party in Britain. This development came after the party’s defeat in the recent elections, where the Labour Party emerged victorious.
The Conservative Party, led by Rishi Sunak and previously by Liz Truss, had faced widespread discontent among Britons, prompting the need for new leadership.
Badenoch’s rise to leadership is a significant milestone, not only for the Conservative Party but also for British politics as a whole. As the Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Conservative Party, she is now in line to potentially become the first black prime minister in British history.
Badenoch’s background is marked by her experiences growing up in Nigeria and later moving to the UK, where she worked her way up to become a prominent politician.
As the new leader of the Conservative Party, Badenoch faces the task of reinvigorating the party and regaining the trust of the British people. Her leadership style and policies will be closely watched in the coming months and years.
With her historic appointment, Badenoch has opened up new possibilities for diversity and representation in British politics, and her future endeavours will be eagerly anticipated.
AFCON
In a thrilling finale, Cote d’Ivoire emerged victorious in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles and claiming the $7 million prize money, along with their third title since 1992 and 2015. Conversely, Nigeria’s loss extended their 11-year trophy drought.
Notably, Cote d’Ivoire’s journey to the finals was a remarkable turnaround, having started the tournament with a dismal performance that prompted the emergency appointment of new coach Emerse Fae, before they managed to advance to the next round as one of the best losers in the group stage.
Fuel scarcity
Nigeria grappled with recurring fuel scarcity throughout 2024, but the situation reached a boiling point in April when fuel queues stretched for miles across the country.
The public expressed their frustration on social media and the streets, but their complaints fell on deaf ears as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers of Nigeria (PETROAN) engaged in a blame game over the shortage.
Despite the scarcity persisting into May, Nigerians once again demonstrated their characteristic resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Momentous LG Supreme Court judgement
Nigeria’s Supreme Court made a groundbreaking ruling on the financial autonomy of local governments, marking a significant milestone in the country’s history.
For years, state governments had been collecting funds meant for local governments from the federal government and using them as they saw fit, without being held accountable, however, the Supreme Court has now declared this practice illegal and ordered the federal government to transfer funds directly to local government accounts.
This landmark judgment has far-reaching implications for grassroots development and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
With financial autonomy, local governments can now manage their funds, make decisions, and take action without needing approval from state governments.
This is expected to boost their independence and direct accountability to the electorates, enabling them to focus on delivering services and development projects that benefit their communities.
Return of President Donald Trump
Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 US presidential election was a stunning upset, given the controversy surrounding his departure from the White House in 2021.
His supporters’ attack on Capitol Hill, aimed at overturning the election results that brought Joe Biden to power, led to investigations and criminal charges against Trump.
Despite being convicted of crimes related to his business dealings, Trump remained undeterred, and his brash demeanour continued to polarize potential supporters.
In a surprise landslide, Trump defeated his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris.
His campaign promises included mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals, leaving many Americans and foreign residents wondering what the future holds. Trump’s inauguration is set for January 20, 2025, marking the beginning of his second non-consecutive term as President.
This historic event will make him the second president in US history to serve non-consecutive terms, after Grover Cleveland in 1893.
Borno flood
A devastating flood hit Maiduguri, Borno State, submerging parts of the city, displacing families, and even freeing animals from the local zoo.
The disaster was reportedly caused by the breakdown of the Alau Dam, which serves as the city’s water reservoir. The dam’s failure had catastrophic consequences, with the United Nations warning that the flooding had exacerbated an already critical food and nutrition crisis in the state’s internally displaced person camps.
The flood’s impact was widespread, with 33 out of 36 states in Nigeria predicted to experience a high risk of devastating flooding between July and September 2024, according to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The agency identified 135 local government areas as vulnerable to flooding, including states such as Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, and Borno. The disaster has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in Nigeria.
Mass marriage of orphan girls
Nigerians were struggling to cope with the fuel scarcity when a lawmaker introduced a shocking plan. On May 10, the Speaker of the Niger State Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, decided to marry off 100 girls orphaned by banditry attacks in Niger State.
The goal, according to him, was to alleviate the poverty the girls were facing. However, his plan was met with criticism from various quarters, including the former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye.
Despite initial pushback, Uju later backtracked, stating that her intention was not to stop the marriage but to ensure the girls were of marriageable age and not being forced into it.
On May 24, all 100 girls were married off in separate ceremonies. This mass marriage sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the effectiveness of such a solution in addressing poverty and the welfare of the girls involved.
Davido’s wedding to Chioma and custody lawsuit
Social media was abuzz for over a week after renowned musician David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, announced his wedding to his long-time partner, Chioma.
The highly anticipated ceremony took place at the prestigious Harbour Point Centre in Lagos, attracting a plethora of high-profile guests, including prominent politicians, businessmen, and celebrities from the entertainment industry.
The wedding, which was trending on social media with the hashtag #CHIVIDO2024, was a grand celebration of the couple’s love. However, the festivities were preceded by a less-than-joyful development.
Days before the wedding announcement, Davido had filed a lawsuit against Sophia Momodu, the mother of his first child, Imade, seeking custody of their daughter. Momodu responded to the lawsuit, denying Davido’s accusations and alleging that he had abandoned their child.
Hydrogen-powered air taxi
In a groundbreaking achievement, Joby Aviation successfully tested its flying car-like aircraft in July, which flew an impressive 523 miles (850 kilometres) on hydrogen power.
This distance is equivalent to travelling from Lagos to Kano. The aircraft, which can take off and land vertically like a helicopter, boasts an environmentally friendly design, emitting only water vapour as it flies.
This innovation paves the way for the development of vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOLs), with several companies, including Joby, working towards making air taxi travel a reality.
The potential impact of this technology on transportation, particularly in countries like Nigeria, cannot be overstated. Nigeria’s notorious road networks and traffic congestion often result in lengthy travel times, discomfort, and economic losses.
A hydrogen-powered air taxi would offer a game-changing solution, enabling individuals to travel quickly and efficiently within the country. Imagine being able to order an air taxi and take off from your backyard!
Minimum wage gbas-gbos
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) was like, “Hey, FG! The ₦30,000 minimum wage is so 2019! Can we get a raise, pleeease?” And the FG was all, “Uh, sorry guys, we’re a bit broke.” But the NLC was not having it! They demanded a whopping ₦615,000, and the FG was like, “Whoa, slow down! We can’t afford that!”
So, they went back and forth, negotiating like they were in a marketplace. Finally, after months of haggling, they settled on ₦70,000. And the NLC was all, “Yaaas, we got a raise!” But let’s be real, some states are still like, “Uh, we’re good. We’ll just stick with the old minimum wage, thanks.”
National anthem change
In May, President Tinubu surprised Nigerians once again, this time with a new national anthem. The announcement came just in time for the commemoration of his one year in office, and it was a shocker, especially given that his previous surprise announcement, the removal of fuel subsidies, was still affecting Nigerians.
The bill to change the national anthem was passed in record time, with the House of Representatives debating and passing it on May 23, and the Senate following suit on May 27. President Tinubu signed the bill into law on May 28.
The new national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’, is actually a return to the country’s original anthem, which was used from 1960 to 1978.
The lyrics were written by Lillian Jean Williams, and the music was composed by Frances Benda. The change has been met with mixed reactions, with some critics arguing that the new anthem is outdated and does not reflect the country’s current values.
Human cloning is back on the table
The advent of generative artificial intelligence has breathed new life into the concept of human cloning, albeit in a digital form.
For years, human cloning was a topic of heated debate, with concerns over its benefits and dangers ultimately leading to its abandonment.
However, with the rapid advancements in AI technology, the possibility of creating interactive digital twins of individuals has become a reality. In 2024, AI took a significant leap forward, enabling the creation of digital clones that mimic an individual’s voice, face, and mannerisms with uncanny accuracy.
A remarkable demonstration of this technology was showcased by engineers at Fraia AI, who created a digital clone of BBC journalist Joe Tidy. The cloned Tidy even held a virtual meeting with the real Tidy’s colleagues, blurring the lines between reality and digital simulation.
This breakthrough is poised to revolutionize the way we interact and engage with each other in the future, opening up new possibilities for remote communication, collaboration, and even entertainment.
Symani Surgical System
The prospect of undergoing surgery performed by a robot may have once seemed like the stuff of science fiction, but it’s becoming increasingly plausible. The US Food and Drug Administration has already approved the Symani surgical system for use in hospitals.
This revolutionary robot has already amassed an impressive track record, having successfully performed around 1000 surgeries across 17 procedures in Europe.
The Symani surgical system is particularly noteworthy for its ability to perform super microsurgery and microsurgery with unprecedented precision.
By overcoming the limitations of human hand movement, the robot can access even the tightest spaces, making it an invaluable tool in the operating room.
Dangote rants
Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has had a dramatic transformation in 2024, trading in his laid-back demeanour for a more outspoken and assertive approach.
The catalyst for this change appears to be the numerous challenges he faced in Nigeria this year, particularly with regard to his new refinery.
Dangote’s troubles began when he alleged that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and International Oil Companies (IOCs) were plotting to sabotage his refinery by refusing to sell him crude oil.
The situation escalated further when the CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) claimed that Dangote’s oil was substandard. Dangote was forced to publicly debunk the claim, and he also clashed with the NNPC over petrol pricing and other issues related to his refinery.
It’s been a tumultuous year for Dangote, and the public has been privy to his frustrations. His newfound willingness to speak out and assert himself is a departure from his previously more reserved persona.
National Asoebi
Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. Her innovative ideas have been making waves this year, and it’s hard not to be impressed.
She started by encouraging Nigerians to start their gardens to boost food production and then took it up a notch by launching a national unity fabric, also known as Asoebi, ahead of Nigeria’s Independence Day.
The goal of the unity fabric is to help Nigerians break down tribal barriers and come together as one nation. And, in true innovative spirit, Remi Tinubu didn’t just stop at launching the fabric.
She also rolled out a Fabric Designs Competition with a whopping ₦25 million prize money. It’s no wonder people are hailing her as an innovative queen! Her dedication to promoting unity and creativity is truly inspiring.
EndBadGovernance protests
Nigeria witnessed a nationwide protest from August 1 to 10, 2024, which sparked widespread outrage and garnered acceptance from citizens across the country.
The protests, which began in Lagos and Abuja, quickly spread to other states, with demonstrators expressing grievances over poor governance and economic hardship, largely attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s recent reforms.
Protesters carried placards with messages such as ‘End bad governance in Nigeria’ and ‘Make lawmakers’ jobs part-time,’ while chanting solidarity songs that resonated with millions of frustrated Nigerians.
The protests were not without incident, with reports of violence, arrests, and even fatalities.
Despite efforts by the government to suppress the protests, demonstrators remained defiant, with some even calling for a military takeover.
Hunger protests
The year 2024 has been incredibly tough for Nigerians, and what’s even more frustrating is that the government seems to be turning a deaf ear to their concerns.
In August, Nigerians took to the streets to protest against bad governance and economic hardship through the #EndBadGovernance or hunger protests.
However, the 10-day protests were met with brutal force by the Nigerian Police, resulting in the loss of at least 24 lives, according to a report by Amnesty International released on November 28.
The report revealed that the victims were shot by the police at close range, often in the head or torso, suggesting that the officers were intentionally shooting to kill.
Arrest of minors
The Nigerian government faced intense backlash this year for its treatment of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
On November 1, the Inspector General of Police arraigned around 72 minors at a Federal High Court in Abuja on multiple charges, including treason and attempting to destabilize the country. These minors had been detained for three months, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation from Nigerians and Civil Rights Organizations (CSOs).
The government’s actions were deemed to be in clear violation of several laws, prompting President Tinubu to intervene and order the release of the minors.
A committee was also set up to investigate the arrest and detention of the minors.
Cabinet reshuffle
President Bola Tinubu sent shockwaves across Nigeria on October 23 with a surprise cabinet reshuffle, marking a significant overhaul of his 45-member cabinet.
The changes included the dismissal of five ministers, the appointment of seven new ones, and the reassignment of ten others to different positions.
This move sparked intense debate among Nigerians, with some arguing that not enough ministers were let go, while others jokingly suggested that the President should have included himself on the list of those sacked.
Chidinma and Miss Universe drama
Chidinma Adetshina, a 23-year-old Nigerian-South African beauty queen, made headlines when she withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to a series of xenophobic attacks.
Despite the setback, Chidinma’s determination and resilience led her to accept an invitation from the Miss Universe Nigeria (MUN) organization to participate in the 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria pageant. She not only participated but also emerged victorious, earning the title of Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
As the winner of Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidinma went on to represent the country at the 73rd Miss Universe competition held in Mexico. On November 17, 2024, she made Nigeria proud by finishing as the first runner-up at the prestigious international pageant.
