Good morning,
The arithmetic of akara has broken the internet. Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno stood before his congregation at the monthly covenant prayer service and declared that he once made ₦10 million a month selling “akara burgers” – akara tucked into sliced bread – and running a coffee shop popular with ExxonMobil workers. Social critic Emmanuel Udombon did the math. If ₦10 million was net profit, Eno would have needed to make roughly ₦333,333 in profit every day. At a generous ₦100 profit per piece, that is 3,334 pieces daily. At ₦50, that is 6,667 pieces every day – without accounting for beans, oil, pepper, onions, firewood or labour. The governor’s claim joins a long and colourful tradition of Nigerian politicians offering improbable explanations for their wealth. President Tinubu said he “inherited great real estate.” Orji Uzor Kalu borrowed $35 from his mother. Dino Melaye claimed he bought a goat at 12 and invested in Eurobonds. The tradition is long. The scepticism is justified.
While the governor counts his millions, Mama G is counting her blessings. Veteran Nollywood icon Patience Ozokwor shared personal memories from her early acting days, recounting how she carried snacks to sell while attending film auditions across Lagos to support her family. She also warned parents against over-sheltering youth, emphasising the role of perseverance in personal growth. Her story has resonated with many Nigerians who appreciate her humility and resilience. The contrast is stark: a governor claims ₦10 million from akara, while an actress remembers selling snacks just to survive auditions. One story inspires. The other invites scrutiny.
And while we debate wealth and resilience, the price of petrol is rising. Major petroleum distribution hubs have reported a sharp rise in depot gantry prices up to ₦1,290 per litre, driven by a surge in global crude prices following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The increase will likely be passed on to motorists. For a commercial driver in Lagos, it means higher operating costs, which will be passed on to passengers. For a family in Kano, it means higher transport costs and more expensive food. The government says it is monitoring the situation. Nigerians are bracing for impact.
But there is some relief. Tech firm Kenpetrus Energy Resources has unveiled an “Ultrasonic Transparent Metering” system in Lagos to combat power theft, improve digital billing precision, and monitor distribution networks in real time. The system is designed to address the challenges of power theft and inaccurate billing in Nigeria’s electricity sector. The success of the system will depend on its adoption by power distribution companies and the willingness of consumers to embrace the new technology. The question is whether it will be adopted or face resistance.
Warmly,
Lolade