I've been reflecting on recent news about the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC) of Nigeria sealing shops for selling goods at high prices, and I feel compelled to share some thoughts on this matter. While I appreciate the intent behind these actions, we must understand the deeper economic realities at play in our country.

Firstly, it's crucial to recognize that Nigeria operates within a free market economy, where prices are primarily determined by a complex interplay of market forces. These forces include not only costs of purchase and transportation but also income levels, inflation rates, energy prices (such as fuel, LPG, and diesel), and even security challenges. This means that commodity prices naturally vary based on these economic realities.

The idea of enforcing uniform commodity prices across the country is fundamentally flawed. Those closer to production centers will inevitably have lower costs compared to regions farther away, where transportation and distribution costs escalate. This geographical disparity is a fundamental aspect of our economy that cannot be ignored.

Instead of focusing on short-sighted measures like sealing shops, which can disrupt businesses and alienate consumers, I believe our government should prioritize more effective and sustainable strategies:

1. Improving Citizen's Purchasing Power:

The government should implement policies aimed at increasing the income and purchasing power of our citizens. This could involve job creation initiatives, minimum wage adjustments, and targeted social welfare programs.

2. Publication of Comprehensive Price Lists:

There should be a transparent and comprehensive list of commodities and their prices, taking into account the logistics involved in distributing these goods to different regions of the country. This would empower consumers with knowledge and help them make informed choices.

3. Focus on Economic Growth and Security:

The government must concentrate on improving overall economic conditions by tackling inflation, energy costs, and insecurity. By investing in infrastructure, enhancing security measures, and promoting local production, we can create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive and for prices to stabilize naturally.

Furthermore, any litigation resulting from the FCCPC's actions will likely be counterproductive, leading to additional costs and administrative burdens for the government. Instead, we should channel our efforts towards sustained policies that foster economic growth and empower our citizens.

It's time for our government to shift its focus towards long-term solutions that enhance the economy, boost purchasing power, address insecurity, and promote local industries. By doing so, we can build a more resilient and equitable economy for all Nigerians.

I'm keen to hear your thoughts on this issue. Together, let's advocate for meaningful economic policies that truly benefit our nation.

Wonderful 🤔🤔🤔

A Nigerian man has received approval from the management of Guinness World Record to attempt breaking the Longest Marathon Reading Aloud record, currently held by Risbai Isakov from Kyrgyzstan (who read aloud for 124 hours in September last year)

The Nigerian man, identified as John Obot, seeks to read continuously for 145 Hours to displace the current record holder! Already, his Facebook page - John Obot Reads Aloud - is gathering momentum in anticipation of the record breaking attempt slated to hold from 9th to 15th September, this year.

See the approval mail and publicity fliers below...

Another Nigerian man has announced his decision to attempt the Guinness World Record for Longest Marathon Reading Aloud by An Individual, currently held by Risbai Isakov from kyrgyzstan. According to a post on the Facebook page - John Obot Reads Aloud - he hopes to make the attempt by September this year. Here's what he posted:

"It is official!

Guinness World Record Official Attempt for Longest Marathon Reading Aloud by an individual (Currently held by Risbai Isakov from kyrgyzstan for 124 Hours)

Join me from 9th to 15th September, 2023 in Uyo, Nigeria as I read from a collection of 25 Nigerian novels for 145 Hours to put Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria on the world's literally map.

Follow the action on
Facebook - John Obot Reads Aloud
Instagram - JohnObotReadsAloud
Twitter - John Obot Reads Aloud (@Johnnieobot)
YouTube - John Obot Reads Aloud

For partnership/sponsorship reach out to
Edidiong - 09077064936
Dorathy - 08121279719
Otobong - 08160381411

... Promoting Reading, Encouraging Authors!"

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093396712358