Pyrates Confraternity Archives

NAS Demands Increased Funding, Digital Inclusion, Accountability in Education Sector

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago06 mins

The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has described Nigeria’s worsening literacy crisis as a “national emergency,” warning that millions of out-of-school children are being condemned to lives of poverty, exclusion, and crime unless urgent action is taken. In a statement issued on Sunday to mark this year’s International Literacy Day themed “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era: Bridging the Gap,” NAS Cap’n, Dr Joseph Oteri, said the scale of Nigeria’s challenge was unprecedented. “Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria harbours the world’s highest number of out-of-school children. UNICEF puts the figure at 10.2 million children of primary school age, while UNESCO estimates it rises to 18.3 million when adolescents are included. In real terms, one in every five out-of-school children worldwide is Nigerian,” Oteri stated. He noted that this crisis undermines the country’s ability to meet global development benchmarks, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relating to quality education, poverty reduction, gender equality, and reduced inequalities. According to him, persistent obstacles such as insecurity, poverty, child labour, gender discrimination, and poor infrastructure continue to push millions of children out of school and into risky environments where they are exposed to drugs, crime, exploitation, and even trafficking. “Literacy in the 21st century must be holistic, inclusive, and digitally empowered. Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful development while millions of its children remain uneducated, digitally excluded, and socially disenfranchised,” Oteri stressed. The NAS leader also raised concerns over Nigeria’s growing digital divide. He explained that while children in urban centres increasingly benefit from technology-enabled learning, millions in rural communities remain locked out due to lack of affordable internet, digital devices, and ICT centres. “This uneven access is widening inequality and could create a generation of digitally illiterate citizens in a world driven by knowledge and innovation,” he warned. To reverse the trend, NAS unveiled a six-point rescue plan for Nigeria’s education sector. First, Oteri called for greater public investment, with at least 20 percent of national and state budgets earmarked for education and closely monitored to prevent diversion of funds. He demanded the strict enforcement of the Universal Basic Education policy, ensuring free, compulsory, and quality schooling for every child, free from hidden costs. Thirdly, he pressed for digital inclusion, urging government to provide affordable broadband, digital learning devices, and community ICT hubs to bridge the technological gap. NAS also advocated expanded social protection measures, including larger school feeding schemes, scholarships, and conditional cash transfers to keep children from dropping out due to economic hardship. The fifth proposal stressed partnerships for change, with government collaborating more effectively with NGOs, civil society, faith-based organisations, and the private sector to mobilise resources and expertise. Finally, Oteri insisted on accountability and governance, demanding that anti-corruption safeguards be extended to the education sector to ensure resources actually reach classrooms and students. “Every child left uneducated today becomes a burden on society tomorrow. The cost of inaction is dire,” he warned. As part of its own contribution, Oteri announced that NAS would launch a month-long National Back-to-School Advocacy and Humanitarian Project from September 8 to October 8, 2025. The campaign, to be carried out by NAS chapters across Nigeria and abroad, will combine advocacy with direct support to children and families. According to him, this builds on existing initiatives such as the NAS Street Child Project and its Back-to-School Tuition Support Programme, which provide scholarships, educational materials, and community outreach to vulnerable children. The NAS Cap’n appealed to government at all levels, civil society, private sector, communities, and international partners to act decisively. “Literacy is more than the ability to read and write; it is the passport to economic participation, resilience against crime, and empowerment for citizenship. Together, we can bridge the gap. Together, we can secure a brighter future for every Nigerian child,” he concluded.

Pyrates Confraternity Harp on Equal Justice in Aviation Enforcement

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

The National Association of Seadogs aka Pyrates Confraternity has noted the decision announced in the early hours of Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, to withdraw the criminal complaint against Ms Comfort Emmanson, reduce sanctions in the case of Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (Kwam 1), and introduce reforms to improve the handling of disruptive passenger incidents. In a statement on Wednesday by the NAS Cap’n, Dr Joseph Oteri, the Association said the Minister’s intervention, which emphasised de-escalation, reconciliation, and capacity building for aviation security personnel, is a welcome step towards addressing public concerns about fairness and consistency in enforcement. “From the outset, NAS made it clear that our position was not to excuse or defend unruly behaviour, but to insist that all offenders, whether high-profile or unknown, must face the same lawful consequences for breaches of aviation safety protocols. “The Minister’s acknowledgement that wrongs were committed on all sides, and his move to review the cases holistically, aligns with our call for justice that is even-handed and corrective, not selective,” Oteri said. The Association, however, cautioned that the clemency granted in these cases should not be misconstrued as tolerance for misconduct in the aviation sector. “While compassion is a virtue, deterrence is a duty. Going forward, every passenger and airline staff must understand that safety rules are non-negotiable, and enforcement must be blind to status, influence, or public sympathy,” Oteri stressed. NAS also welcomed the Minister’s directive for a retreat to retrain aviation security personnel and review airline staff conduct, noting that improved crisis management, unbiased enforcement, and respect for human dignity during interventions will go a long way in restoring public trust in Nigeria’s aviation sector. The Association urged the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and airline operators to follow through on the planned reforms, ensure transparent monitoring of enforcement, and intensify public awareness campaigns on passenger conduct and penalties. “Air travel is a shared responsibility. Passengers must respect safety protocols; airlines must treat customers with professionalism; and regulators must apply the law equally. If these principles are upheld, the unfortunate incidents of recent weeks will serve as a turning point for safer, fairer skies,” Oteri said.

Benue Killings: Seadogs Call on FG to End Cycle of Bloodshed

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago06 mins

The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is outraged and deeply pained by the continued orgy of violence and bloodletting that has once again erupted in Benue State, where armed marauders, widely reported to be Fulani herders, have laid siege to communities, leaving in their wake death, destruction, and displacements. In a statement issued on Tuesday by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, the association said it was in solidarity with the traumatised and bereaved families of Yelewata and other communities who are victims of this senseless carnage. The statement read, “It is unconscionable that in the year 2025, entire communities in Nigeria still live under the shadow of fear, unable to sleep, farm, or assemble freely, because their lives are constantly under threat from well-armed killers who operate with brazen impunity. “Reports of the recent massacre in Yelewata, with over 100 lives reportedly lost, should shake the conscience of every Nigerian and spur the government into decisive, responsible action. Tragically, that has not been the case. “We strongly condemn not only the heinous acts of violence committed against innocent villagers but also the lukewarm response of the authorities whose duty it is to protect lives and property.” While we acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to security chiefs and the deployment of Special Forces to Benue State, the National Association of Seadogs emphasised that these actions must not become yet another reactive gesture that fizzles out once the media spotlight fades. “This must mark the beginning of a sustained, coordinated, and transparent security strategy to end this national shame,” it added. According to NAS, equally disturbing is the divisive rhetoric coming from some quarters of government, particularly the attempt by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to blame victims for their misfortune by insinuating internal collaboration with attackers. “This unfortunate narrative only deepens mistrust, polarises communities, and diverts attention from the real threat, armed bandits masquerading as herders, terrorising citizens, and threatening national unity,” it said. As a way forward, the association urged the Federal Government to establish a hybrid task force comprising the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Police, and trained community protection volunteers. “This force must be rooted in local intelligence, equipped with technology, and mandated to dislodge armed militias and secure borders around Benue and adjoining states,” it said. In the same vein, NAS tasked the Federal Government to prosecute perpetrators and sponsors of this extreme violence. “The cycle of impunity must be broken. The security forces must go beyond chasing shadows; they must identify, apprehend, and prosecute the masterminds, financiers, and armed field operatives behind these attacks. Justice must not only be done but seen to be done,” NAS said. The organisation also urged the federal government to convene a national summit to resolve the protracted conflict between farmers and pastoralists once and for all. “This must include the urgent adoption of ranching policies, prohibition of open grazing in vulnerable areas, and provision of support systems for livestock management. “Thousands have been displaced and are now at the mercy of hunger, trauma, and hopelessness. A special humanitarian intervention should be mobilised by NEMA and donor agencies to provide food, shelter, and psychosocial support for displaced persons in Benue. “As a people united by a common identity and as an organisation driven by the ethos of justice and human dignity, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) demands a definitive end to the bloodletting. We require leadership, not platitudes. We demand accountability, not blame games. We demand action, not condolence letters. “To the grieving people of Benue, we send our heartfelt condolences and unyielding solidarity. Your pain is our pain. Your struggle is our cause,” it added.

Rivers: Seadogs Raise Concern Over Affirmation of Emergency Rule

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago04 mins

The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has expressed deep concern over how the National Assembly purportedly affirmed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The association, in a statement by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, noted that the use of the ‘ayes and nays’ voice vote mechanism, rather than a transparent, recorded vote, raises serious questions about due process, democratic accountability, and the intent behind this critical decision. NAS said a matter as weighty as the imposition of emergency rule, which directly affects millions of Nigerians’ lives, rights, and governance, should not be subjected to a hasty, opaque process. The statement read, “The National Assembly has a constitutional duty to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are reached through proper debate, individual voting, and public scrutiny. “It is unacceptable that such an important resolution could be decided through a mere chorus of voices, leaving room for ambiguity and manipulation.” The association urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his decision in light of the fundamental democratic principles underpinning the nation. “The President should also ensure that he is fair to the two parties involved in the Rivers crisis. The resort to emergency rule risks escalating tensions rather than resolving the ongoing political crisis,” the statement noted. NAS also charged elders of the Niger Delta region to take urgent steps to resolve the political impasse in Rivers State. “Instead of an emergency declaration, we call upon the elders and respected stakeholders of the state to rise to the occasion and initiate genuine reconciliation among all warring factions. “Political actors must set aside their differences and prioritize the state’s peace, stability, and development. Dialogue, not forceful interventions, remains the most effective tool for conflict resolution in a democracy. “The National Association of Seadogs remains committed to justice, the rule of law, and democratic accountability. We stand firmly against any attempt to undermine the democratic will of the people under the guise of emergency governance. “Nigeria must not be pushed down a path that erodes its hard-earned democratic values. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the international community to closely monitor this situation and insist on a democratic resolution that respects the people’s will,” the statement noted.

Nigeria @64: Pyrates Confraternity tasks FG to tackle Nation’s challenges

Fola Badmus12 months ago12 months ago05 mins

The National Association of Seadogs aka Pyrates Confraternity has tasked on the Federal Government to implement economic measures to alleviate suffering of the Nigerian masses. The Pyrates Confraternity made the clarion call in a statement signed by its Capoon, Dr Joseph Oteri, on Monday. The statement reads; “As we mark the 64th Independence Day of our beloved country, the National Association of Seadogs, Pyrates Confraternity, stands in unity with all citizens in acknowledging our journey. “However, we must also address the urgent challenges that continue to undermine our progress and the well-being of millions of Nigerians. The Pyrates Confraternity calls on the Federal Government to immediately implement economic measures to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian masses, especially the growing hunger. “The rising poverty and worsening economic conditions, if not addressed, threaten to spiral into widespread social unrest. Nigerians are becoming increasingly indifferent to Independence Day celebrations, as promises of progress have often gone unmet, leaving disillusionment in their wake. Poverty remains rampant, with over 133 million Nigerians—more than 60% of the population—living without access to basic necessities such as healthcare, education, and housing. “This economic crisis highlights the failure of policies to provide safety nets for the most vulnerable. The inflation rate has skyrocketed, with food inflation reaching an unprecedented 40.9% in June 2024. “This is further compounded by rising transportation costs and the effects of insecurity and climate change on food production. “Insecurity is also a major concern. Farmers are unable to access their farms due to attacks from bandits and herdsmen, causing a food crisis and linking rising food prices directly to the security situation. “We must ensure that our security agencies step up efforts to protect lives and properties so that agricultural productivity can thrive. “Corruption remains a stubborn obstacle to progress, with Nigeria ranking 145th out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index. We call for the strengthening of anti-corruption agencies and the enforcement of accountability across all sectors of government. Corruption continues to erode the rule of law, weakening institutions and eroding public trust in the government. “Education is another critical sector in need of attention. Over 10 million children are out of school, a situation that has dire consequences for the future of our nation. We call on the government to allocate adequate resources to education, ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality schooling. “In conclusion, as we celebrate our 64th Independence Day, we must reflect on the future of Nigeria. The solution to our challenges lies in unity, the decentralization of governance, and genuine leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people. “Together, let us work towards a Nigeria that is prosperous, secure, and equitable for all.”