Abuja, Nigeria. July 10th, 2018 – In a new public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls, Nigerians have urged the President, Muhammadu Buhari to spend the recently recovered $322 million Abacha loot on job creation, improving electricity supply, boosting healthcare and building new roads. These were the top four recommendations proffered by Nigerians in the poll which sought the opinions of Nigerians on the awareness of the recently recovered Abacha loot and what the funds received should be spent on. Interestingly, the proposed plan of the federal government to share the recovered funds to the poorest of the poor in the society came 5th on the line of suggestions, thereby indicating that Nigerians consider Jobs, Electricity and Healthcare as top priorities calling for urgent attention. Following the news of the recently repatriated $322 million from the Government of Switzerland and plans by the Federal Government of Nigeria to expend the funds on its Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Social Investment Programme target poor and vulnerable citizens; there have been mixed reactions in the media and social space. In this regard, NOIPolls, the nation’s barometer conducted a poll to feel the pulse of Nigerians on the issue. The poll was conducted between the 2nd and 6th of July 2018, with 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning Nigerians interviewed across the country; and representing the 6 geo-political zones. Firstly, the poll sought to assess the level of awareness of Nigerians on the recently recovered $322 Million, fondly referred to as Abacha Loot. It was found that 8 in 10 Nigerians (80 percent) said they are aware of the recently recovered Abacha Loot, leaving only 20 percent who are unaware. Interestingly, the data revealed that more Men (84 percent) than Women (75 percent), and respondents above 36 years of age (82 percent) said they are aware of the recovered loot; while respondents in the North-East (89 percent) and South-West (85 percent) geopolitical zones seem to be more aware of the news of the recovered loot. The second key question sought the opinion of Nigerians on how the repatriated Abacha Loot should be spent. From the results of the poll, about a third (30 percent) of Nigerians interviewed were of the opinion that the government of President Muhammadu Buhari should use the funds to create employment opportunities in the country. This is not surprising, given the current youth bulge experienced in the country and the level of unemployment, particularly amongst young people aged between 18 and 35 years. This was followed by 20 percent who suggested that government should expend the recovered funds on improving the power supply in the country; while another 20 percent suggest that government should build hospitals and improve healthcare in the country. These are also linked to job creation and enhancing human capital development in the country, as it has been argued that when the people have access to electricity, they would be able to create their own jobs; and when the people have good healthcare it would improve their life expectancy, and ultimately their capacity to contribute to developing the country. In addition, 15 percent were of the opinion that part of the recovered funds should be channeled to building new roads and rail links across the country; with 10 percent suggesting that the funds be shared amongst the poorest Nigerians. It is instructive to note that the proposal of the Federal Government to share the recovered funds to poor Nigerians came 5th on the list of what Nigerians consider top priorities to be handled by the government. Further analysis from the data revealed varoius priorities across the six geo-political zones on how the funds should be spent. For instance, Nigerians residing in the South-West (30 percent), South-South (30 percent) and South-East (30 percent) regions want the Federal Government to create employment opportunities with the recovered funds. This is not surprising given the population density and unemployment rate in these regions. Similarly, respondents in the South-East (27 percent) and South-West (24 percent) clamour for improved power supply. Again, these are regions that hold the industrial base of the country, and would require stable power supply to drive the country’s industrial capacity. In the same vein, those residing in the North-West zone (25 percent) would like the funds to be used to build hospitals and improve healthcare; while those in the North-East (15 percent) want the funds to be invested in agriculture given the land mass and agricultural resources available in the region. The third key question sought the opinions of Nigerians on what needs to be done to prevent further outrageous looting of public funds in Nigeria. Interestingly, the findings demonstrate the level of anger expressed by Nigerians, particularly on the issue of corruption and the need to totally prevent recurrence of looting. A third of the respondents recommended life imprisonment for offenders (30 percent); followed by 25 percent who were of the opinion that death penalty be introduced and 20 percent who said offenders should be punished severely amongst other measures. In conclusion, this new poll has clearly revealed what Nigerians consider their topmost priorities and how they believe the government should spend the recovered Abacha Loot. In their opinion, government should spend the recovered funds in this order: (1) promoting job creation, (2) improving electricity supply, (3) enhancing healthcare access and universal healthcare coverage for all Nigerians, and (4) improving the state of Nigerian roads and rail infrastrcuture, and (5) sharing some money to the poorest of the poor Nigerians, amongst others. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the country’s unemployment rate rose from 14.2 percent to 18.8 percent in 2017, indicating an increase of additional 1.2 million in Nigeria’s unemployed labour population.[1] Unemployment remains a crucial issue facing the country, and the message from this poll is crystal clear. There’s need for government to: direct significant amount of funds to development projects with the capacity to create large number of jobs for the teeming unemployed youths (such as the revamping of Ajaokuta Steel); work towards improving the enabling environment to enhance increased productivity within the private sector; and support programmes aimed at promoting entrepreneurship development amongst young Nigerians. For instance, funds ought to be directed to social investment programmes such as the Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme (GEEP) and YouWin which does not only support young entrepreneurs to start their businesses, but also gives them the opportunity to become employers of labour. Finally, a significant proportion of Nigerians have advocated for life imprisonment and death sentence for looters of public funds amongst other punitive measures. It is therefore imperative that the Federal Government needs to step up its fight against corruption, and work towards plugging all the loopholes to avoid recurrence of diversion of public funds into private accounts. About NOIPolls & the Poll Methodology NOIPolls is Nigeria’s premier public opinion polling institution, which conducts periodic opinion polls and studies on various socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria. More information is available at www.noi-polls.com. The poll was conducted between July 2nd and July 6th, 2018. It involved telephone interviews of a random nationwide sample. 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning Nigerians aged 18 years and above, representing the six geopolitical zones in the country, were interviewed. With a sample of this size, we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus 3%. Of the 1,000 completed interviews, 51 percent were male and 49 percent female respondents. Samples for the poll were selected randomly for the 36 states and the FCT in representation of geo-political zone’s population – North-Central (15 percent), North-East (14 percent), North-West (24 percent), South-East (12 percent), South-South (15 percent) and South-West (20 percent). Also, 43 percent of respondents were aged between 18 and 35 years; 53 percent between 36 and 60 years; and 4 percent above 61 years. In terms of employment status of respondents, top 6 respondents are: Self-employed traders (32 percent), Civil servants (20 percent), Unemployed young people (9 percent), Artisans (9 percent), Students (8 percent) Professional workers (8 percent). [1] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/12/nigerias-unemployment-rate-rises-14-2-18-8/

Abuja July 3rd, 2018: NOIPolls conducted a survey in 2017 to highlight the issue of doctors’ migrating  en mass for various reasons. Recent figures show that Nigerian doctors are still emigrating in droves to the West especially the United Kingdom as they employ at least 12 new doctors a week[1]. This continuous migration has further worsened the physician-patient ratio in Nigeria from 1:4,000 to 1:5,000, contrary to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended 1:600.[2] Thus, prompting this press release by   NOIPolls to resound the alarm on this continued menace as a low doctor to patient ratio worsens medical outcomes leading to unnecessary fatalities, avoidable deaths, longer wait times, more frequent medical errors and a general deterioration in the health of Nigeria’s population.[3] The survey conducted by NOIPolls in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch in May 2017, revealed that about 8 out of every 10 (88 percent) medical doctors in Nigeria were currently seeking work opportunities abroad, and this finding cut across junior, mid and senior level doctors in both public and private medical institutions such as house officers, corps members, medical and senior medical officer, residents, registrars, consultants and medical directors. Interestingly, the United Kingdom and the United States are the top destinations where Nigerian medical doctors sought work opportunities. Consequently, at the time of the survey, many Nigerian doctors were currently registered to write foreign medical exams such as PLAB for the UK (30 percent), USMLE for the United States (30 percent), MCCE for Canada (15 percent), AMC for Australia (15 percent) and DHA for Dubai (10 percent) amongst others. Further findings revealed that the reasons for the continuous brain drain in the health sector include challenges such as high taxes and deduction from salary (98 percent), low work satisfaction (92 percent), poor salaries and emoluments (91 percent) and the huge knowledge gap that exists in the medical practice abroad (47 percent) amongst others. These were some of the key findings from the survey and we hope these findings would help stimulate conversations amongst stakeholders in the country’s health sector and trigger much needed reforms to redesign of a health system that is responsive to the healthcare needs of the nation. This survey also seeks to sound an alarm of a looming brain drain in the country’s health sector if nothing is done urgently to curb this rising trend of emigration of healthcare practitioners – physicians, nurses, pharmacist, and laboratory scientists amongst others. To download the full report, kindly visit our website: www.noi-polls.com Brief Background Nigeria has about 72,000 medical doctors registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, with only approximately 35,000 practicing in Nigeria. The emigration of the Nigerian healthcare workforce, particularly medical doctors has been a lingering problem in the country. In a bid to measure the scope of this trend, NOIPolls in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch conducted a survey on medical doctors to assess the prevalence with which medical doctors pursue work opportunities abroad and probable reasons why. The findings are critical to the ability of the health system to retain adequate skilled personnel to cope with Nigeria’s growing population. The survey was targeted at Nigerian medical doctors, and it involved a mixed methodology approach employing quantitative and qualitative methods. For the quantitative method, an online survey using a standardized, well-structured questionnaire was employed; and a semi-structured interview guide was utilized for the qualitative approach. The various cadres of doctors were captured in both the quantitative and qualitative methods. Respondents to the online survey were not limited by geographical location, although the in-depth interviews were conducted with medical doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Nigeria’s National Population Commission (NPC) has projected current population to be about 182 million at a 3.5% growth rate from the 2006 census. This means we need about 303,333 medical doctors now, and at least 10,605 new doctors annually to join the workforce. Only at this level can we expect good quality patient care that is not compromised by errors occasioned by fatigued and overworked medical doctors. The Survey found that 88 percent of medical doctors interviewed said they were currently considering work opportunities abroad; and this particular finding cuts across the junior, mid-level and senior level doctors in both public and private medical institutions. Interestingly, the United Kingdom and the United States are the top destinations where Nigerian medical doctors sought work opportunities. Prevalent reasons for emigrating included; better facilities and work environment, higher remuneration, career progression & professional advancement, and better quality of life. Majority of survey respondents (87%) believe government is unconcerned with mitigating the challenges facing medical doctors in Nigeria. In addition, 26 in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted as part of the qualitative approach to gather insightful information on the challenges and underlying factors causing doctors to seek work opportunities abroad. Respondents to the in-depth interviews were medical doctors. At least 10 out of the 26 doctors interviewed mentioned Low work satisfaction as the foremost reason doctors pursued work opportunities abroad. Many even placed low work satisfaction above poor remuneration, which was the second most prevalent reason cited for making doctors seek work opportunities abroad in the in-depth interviews conducted. Work opportunities came in third with at least 4 in 26 respondents citing work opportunity as the most prevalent reason, because doctors who are unable to secure a good job to cater for themselves and the family will be forced to source for better opportunities. In a bid to understand the scope of emigrating doctors, the frequency, and the underlying factors, NOIPolls in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch conducted this survey on medical doctors to feel the pulse of these professionals. The findings are revealing and we hope with this report to catalyze the dialogue and an action plan that would design a health system that is responsive and meets the needs of both the Nigerian physicians and patients. The survey was conducted between the 1st and the 15th of May, 2017 to provide a snapshot of the prevalence of Nigerian medical doctors who are seeking work opportunities abroad. In total, 705 doctors completed the online survey the majority of whom were in Nigeria, but some of them reside outside Nigeria. Respondents to the survey cut across house officers, National Youth Service Corps members, medical officers, senior registrars, consultants, medical directors, etc. METHODOLOGY The survey was targeted at Nigerian medical doctors, and it involved a mixed methodology approach employing quantitative and qualitative methods. For the quantitative method, an online survey using a standardized, well-structured questionnaire was employed; and a semi-structured interview guide was utilized for the qualitative approach. The various cadres of doctors were captured in both the quantitative and qualitative methods. Respondents to the online survey were not limited by geographical location, although the in-depth interviews were conducted with medical doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1] https://www.icirnigeria.org/at-least-12-nigerian-doctors-employed-in-the-uk-every-week-report-reveals/ [2] https://guardian.ng/features/health-sector-dips-as-more-nigerian-doctors-move-abroad/ [3] https://guardian.ng/features/health-sector-dips-as-more-nigerian-doctors-move-abroad/

Abuja, Nigeria. June 26th, 2018 – Ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti State Gubernatorial elections slated for July 14th 2018, a new public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls has pitched Professor Kolapo Olusola, candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in an early 8-point lead over Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The poll was conducted between 18th and 23rd June 2018 and it sought to assess the preparedness of voters towards the forthcoming Governorship election in Ekiti state. From the results of 1,000 randomly selected respondents, all resident in Ekiti state, and interviewed via telephone: Professor Olusola, fondly known as Eleka polled 34 percent; Dr. Fayemi (JKF) polled 26 percent; Otunba Segun Adewale of ADP, fondly called Oshaprapra (7 percent); and Reverend Tunde Afe of ANRP (6 percent). In addition, there were some candidates who altogether polled 4 percent, such as: Akinloye Ayegbusi (SDP), David Ayodele Adesua (ADC), Ebenezer Femi Ogunsakin (PPN), Dr. Sikiru Lawal (LP), Sunday Balogun (MPN), Mrs, Ilesanmi Anike Margaret (AP), Temitope Amuda (KP), Tosin Ajibade (ID) and Agboola Olaniyi (AD) amongst others. Interestingly, the poll also revealed that while 93 percent of respondents claimed to have obtained their Permanent Voters Card (PVC), 83 percent were absolutely certain they would come out and vote for the gubernatorial candidate of their choice on 14th July 2018. However, in spite of this level of optimism and preparedness, 23 percent of respondents remain either undecided or simply refused to divulge their choice of candidate. The poll further indicated that while Professor Olusola appeared to enjoy significant support across the three senatorial districts of the state, Ekiti Central (39 percent), Ekiti South (36 percent) and Ekiti North (30 percent); Dr. Fayemi’s support base was observed mainly in Ekiti South (28 percent) and Ekiti North (27 percent) senatorial districts. Similarly, the poll highlighted Eleka’s support amongst youths aged between 18 and 35 years (39 percent) and the working-class of ages 36 to 60 years (34 percent); compared to JKF’s whose support averaged 26 percent across all age categories. Interestingly, the poll also revealed a strong female support for Eleka (37 percent), compared to JKF with significant support from male respondents (28 percent). In conclusion, although Eleka currently leads the race with a significant 8-point margin, we opine that the election remains a keenly contested race between the two leading candidates (Prof. Olusola and Dr. Fayemi) for two main reasons: 1.) There remains a very significant proportion of voters (23 percent) who remain either undecided or seek confidentiality as to their choice of candidate; and 2.) For political watchers, the election of 14th July 2018 appears to be more of a contest between the incumbent Governor, Dr. Ayodele Fayose and the former Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and not necessarily between Eleka and JKF. About NOIPolls & the Poll Methodology NOIPolls is Nigeria’s premier public opinion polling institution, which conducts periodic opinion polls and studies on various socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria. More information is available at www.noi-polls.com. The poll was conducted between June 18th and 23rd 2018. It involved telephone interviews of a random state-wide sample in Ekiti State. 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning residents of the state aged 18 years and above, representing the three senatorial districts of the state, were interviewed. With a sample of this size, we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus 3%. Of the 1,000 completed interviews, 52 percent were male and 48 percent female respondents. Samples for the poll were selected randomly for the senatorial districts in representation of the state’s population – Ekiti Central (39 percent), Ekiti South (34 percent), and Ekiti North (27 percent). Also, 35 percent of respondents were aged between 18 and 35 years; 57 percent between 36 and 60 years; and 8 percent above 61 years. In terms of employment status of respondents, top 5 respondents are: Self-employed traders (32 percent), Civil servants (21 percent), Artisans (10 percent), Unemployed young people (7 percent), and Students (7 percent). Signed 25-Jun-2018 Dr. Bell Ihua CEO NOIPolls

Abuja, Nigeria. June 19th, 2018 – A new public opinion poll by NOIPolls has highlighted mixed reactions trailing President Buhari’s recent declaration of June 12th as Nigeria’s new Democracy Day. The latest poll of 1,000 respondents nationwide, which was conducted in the week commencing 11th June 2018, revealed that fifty-six percent of Nigerians (56 percent) say they are in support of the President’s declaration; while 44 percent say they are not in support of the declaration. This came on the heels of the finding that almost 8 out of 10 respondents (79 percent) interviewed said they were aware of the recent declaration by President Buhari to commemorate June 12 as Nigeria’s new Democracy Day. Interestingly, the findings highlighted a number of socio-demographic differences. The data showed that while the North-East (75 percent), South-West (69 percent) and North-West (60 percent) geo-political zones constituted the zones with the highest level of support for the President’s declaration; the South-East (70 percent) and South-South (61 percent) regions constituted the bulk of respondents that are not in support of the declaration. Similarly, while respondents between the ages of 18 and 60 years (average of 56 percent) were more in support of the declaration; senior citizens above 60 years (53 percent) did not seem particularly in support. The poll further probed respondents to better appreciate the reasons behind the mixed level of support towards the declaration, and the responses throw more light on the issue. On the part of 56 percent of respondents in support of the declaration, half of them were of the opinion that Late Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12th 1993 election, deserves the honour (50 percent).  This was followed by 20 percent who affirmed their support for the declaration because they believe the June 12th 1993 election was the freest and fairest election Nigeria has ever had, since independence in 1960. In addition, 16 percent were of the opinion that President Buhari’s declaration was done in response to the yearnings and request of Nigerians; and 14 percent perceived the declaration as a progressive decision taken by the administration of President Buhari. On the other hand, amongst 44 percent of respondents who are NOT in support of the June 12 declaration by President Buhari, the majority (40 percent) were of the opinion that the declaration was not done in good faith; but is a mere political game targeted at gaining support for 2019 elections. This was followed by 35 percent of such respondents who thought that Nigerians are already used to having May 29 as Democracy Day and there was no need for a new date. In addition, 15 percent stated that President Buhari’s government should focus on more important issues facing the country, such as insecurity, poor infrastructure and the harsh impact of the economy on Nigerians. Finally, 10 percent of respondents stated that the president did not follow due process in declaring June 12 as the new Democracy Day in Nigeria. They argued that he should have sent the decision to the National Assembly for their ratification. In conclusion, the poll has highlighted mixed reactions trailing the declaration of June 12th as the new Democracy Day by President Buhari. On one hand, some social commentators and pundits have termed the action a political masterstroke and progressive action; while on the contrary, others have passed it off as a mere political strategy to boost support for 2019 elections. Nevertheless, this latest poll clearly shows that at least 56 percent of Nigerians applaud and commend the decision by President Muhammadu Buhari to recognise the significance of June 12th 1993 and honour the memory of Late Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the election. Survey Method The poll was conducted in the week commencing June 11th, 2018. It involved telephone interviews of a random nationwide sample. 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning Nigerians aged 18 years and above, representing the six geopolitical zones in the country, were interviewed. With a sample of this size, we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus 3%. NOIPolls Limited, is the No1 for country specific polling services in West Africa. We conduct periodic opinion polls and studies on various socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria. More information is available at www.noi-polls.com or download our mobile app NOIPolls on your smartphone. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. For more information, please visit our website www.noi-polls.com and you can also download our mobile app NOIPolls on your smart phone. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com

Abuja, Nigeria. June 12th, 2018 – The World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL) was inaugurated in 2002 by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and is celebrated annually on the 12th of June, it focuses attention on the global extent of child labour and the action and efforts needed to eliminate it. The Day aims to protect children by promoting international standards on child labour, raising awareness on this important issue and advocating for the basic right of education for all children. According to ILO’s data, hundreds of millions of children throughout the world are involved in work that deprives them of receiving adequate education, health, leisure and basic freedoms. Of these children, more than half are exposed to the worst forms of child labour which include working in hazardous environments, slavery    and other forms of forced labour, illicit activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution, as well as involvement in armed conflict.[1] It is therefore pertinent that governments, employers and workers in organizations, civil society, as well as millions of people from around the world synergize on policies and reforms to eliminate this plight of child labourers and take care action on what can be done to help them. According to the United Nation’s data, about 218 million children between 5 and 17 years are in employment globally. Among them, 152 million are victims of child labour and almost half of these child labour victims (72.1 million) are found in Africa.[2] Although, they are laws prohibiting child labour in Nigeria such as Child Rights Act 2003 and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2003, Nigeria is still caught up in the issue of Child Labour as it is still on the increase due to a lack of enforcement of the law. For instance, research findings contained in the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data indicates that about 50.8 percent of Nigerian children between 5 and 17 years are involved in one form of child labour or the other.[3] This figure is worrisome as the effect of child labour does not only affect the child, it affects the society in general. In view of the World Day Against Child Labour, NOIPolls presents findings from a previous poll on Child Labour which assessed the opinions of Nigerians regarding its prevalence, the extent of its effects and the possible solutions to reduce it to the barest minimum. The poll which was conducted in 2016 revealed that the larger proportion of Nigerians confirmed that they have personally seen children engaged in physical labour or jobs in their locality. Most respondents (70 percent) cited street hawking as the job most children engage in and a majority of respondents (45 percent) blamed it on poverty. The poll also revealed that majority (41 percent) of the respondents advocated for free education as part of the suggestions for eliminating the issue of Child Labour in Nigeria. The chart below showed that residents from the North-West accounted for the highest percentage of Nigerians (78 percent) who have personally seen children engaged in physical labour or jobs in their locality. Also, analysis on age-group revealed that respondents aged between 18 and 35 years had the largest representation of Nigerians who acknowledged that they have personally seen children engaged in physical labour or job in their locality. The high level of diverse and tedious jobs that children execute in dangerous circumstances is particularly worrying. Findings from this poll showed that these jobs children are usually seen working include street hawking, domestic work, street begging and cargo loading. Others work as bus conductors or construction workers, family business or farming and mason, while a meagre number work as auto mechanics and unskilled labourers. According to the International Labour Organization, the number of working children under the age of 14 in Nigeria is estimated at 15 million.[4] Child labour is closely connected with poverty (45 percent) and other types of marginalization as revealed by respondents. Research shows that child labour often increases during an economic downturn, as parents remove their children from school to supplement family income.[5] Traditionally, children have worked with their families, but today children are forced to work for their own and their families’ survival. The money earned by child family members have become a significant part of the families’ income. Furthermore, the survey also revealed that free education topped the list   of suggestions given by majority (41 percent) of the respondents surveyed and residents from the North-East zone (51 percent) accounted for the largest proportion of Nigerians who advocated for free education. Also, 20 percent of the respondents mentioned job creation and the South-South zone had the highest percentage (25 percent) of respondents in this category. In addition, 11 percent was of the opinion that parents should be enlightened on birth control measures to curtail number of children born without adequate and proper care. In conclusion, as Nigerians join the world today in commemorating World Day Against Child Labour, it is pertinent for government and other stakeholders to address issues pertaining to child labour. Protecting and ensuring child education is a compulsory step towards tackling child labour as advocated by majority of respondents surveyed, along with measures to reduce poverty and promote social and economic development. Government and other stakeholders must synergize to enact policies that adopt a progressive approach with focus on rehabilitation of children working in hazardous occupations. Additionally, government need to enforce strict enforcement of Nigerian laws on child labour as well as development programmes to address its root causes of child labour such as poverty. Finally, it is important to ensure that children around the world, especially in a developing country like Nigeria, get the benefit of free and quality education, which would shape them into productive individuals for a better society. Children’s rights cannot be fulfilled and protected unless the Governments and international organisations look behind the broad averages of development statistics and address the urban poverty and inequality that characterize the lives of so many children. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. For more information, please visit our website www.noi-polls.com and you can also download our mobile app NOIPolls on your smart phone. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1] https://leadership.ng/2017/06/13/editorial-world-day-child-labour/ [2]http://www.un.org/en/events/childlabourday/background.shtml [3]https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/02/50-nigerian-children-engage-child-labour-nbs/ [4] https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/children_1935.html [5]http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/leading-the-international-agenda/education-for-all/single-view/news/world_day_against_child_labour_12_june

Abuja, Nigeria. June 5th, 2018 – Following confirmed reports that President Muhammadu Buhari has signed the “Not Too Young To Run” Bill into law on May 31st 2018, NOIPolls presents findings from a past poll conducted in partnership with Business Day Media in June 2017 which highlighted the perceptions of Nigerians on age preference in the 2019 Presidential election. The “Not Too Young To Run” Bill sought to alter some sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), reducing the age qualification for the office of the President from 40 years to 35 years and other public offices such as the office of the Governor, the Senate and House of Representative. The results revealed that almost half of those interviewed (48 percent) expressed their preference for middle-aged presidential candidates as 64 percent of Nigerians disclosed that they would prefer to vote for a presidential candidate between the ages of 40 and 50 years in the 2019 Presidential election. Reacting to this, the CEO NOIPolls, Dr. Bell Ihua, commended the President for signing the bill into law, stating that it is a positive move in strengthening the country’s nascent democracy and further encouraged those in authority to continue to listen to the voice of the people. Interestingly, respondents aged between 18 to 35 years had the larger share of Nigerians (49 percent) who would prefer a middle-aged presidential candidate, while respondents aged between 18 – 35 years accounted for the largest proportion (37 percent) who wanted young people to run. Those aged 60 years and above (24 percent) preferred an elderly presidential candidate. Perceptions on maximum age preferred for presidential candidates for the 2019 election revealed that majority of the respondents (64 percent) stated that they preferred candidates between the ages of 40 and 50 years, categorized as middle-age. Despite the huge support for middle-aged presidential candidates in 2019 election, most Nigerians disclosed that financial constraints (40 percent) would prevent young professionals from vying for elective public offices such as governorship and presidential positions. In conclusion, the passing of the “Not Too Young To Run” into law is in line with the demands of the people as our results have clearly revealed that most Nigerians prefer young (35 percent) to middle-aged (48 percent) presidential candidates in the 2019 presidential elections. It is pertinent for political parties in the country to adjust their constitutions and guidelines to ensure youth inclusiveness and candidate age selection limits. Finally, most Nigerians identified financial constraints as the main factor that could prevent young professional from vying for elective positions in 2019 election, highlighting the need for political parties to ensure that costs of nomination forms are reviewed downwards for all positions to ensure massive incursion of young people into the political terrain from 2019 onwards. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com

Abuja, Nigeria. May 22nd, 2018 – Following the resolution adopted in December 2013 by the United Nations General Assembly, recognizing the role of culture as a driver and enabler of sustainable development, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development was inaugurated and is celebrated annually on the 21st of May. Diversity is a valuable resource for attaining development goals, including fighting poverty and promoting gender equality, quality education and human rights, and must be fully integrated it into the global strategies for sustainable development.[1] Nigeria is blessed with diverse cultures and heritage and these affect the way Nigerians dress and socialize. The different ethnic groups have peculiar cultural enclaves which shape their dress patterns and this has been passed on from generations. This is mostly noticeable on Fridays and Sundays; also during ceremonies and festivities where most Nigerians appear on different indigenous designs of apparels and attires.  The love and acceptance of cultural diversity, if properly harnessed especially through the fashion and creative industry, can become a viable means of stimulating the economy; mainly through manufacturing and local demand. Also, as part of measures to uplift the nation’s culture and promote “Made-in-Nigeria textile products”. “The Federal Executive Council (FEC), in February, 2017, approved the adoption of Mondays and Wednesdays of every week as Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days.[2] In view of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, NOIPolls presents findings from a previous poll which assessed the opinions of Nigerians regarding the Made-in-Nigeria Dress days. Overall, the poll revealed that Nigerians love to showcase their native attires as a whopping majority (95 percent) of respondents said they wear attires and outfits made-in-Nigeria. Also the poll revealed that Nigerians are open to support native attire dress days in order to promote the Nigerian cultural heritage and national identity (33 percent); boost the economy (17 percent) by increasing patronage of locally made clothes (16 percent) amongst reasons.  In line with this, The United Nations Creative Economy Report 2013, co-published by UNESCO and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), confirmed that the creative economy is one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the world. Figures show that world trade in creative goods and services totaled a record $624 billion in 2011 and that it more than doubled from 2002 to 2011.[3] In other to ascertain the level of patronage of Made-in-Nigeria clothes, respondents to the survey were asked if they wear Made-in-Nigeria dresses. The survey result revealed that majority of Nigerians (95 percent) wear Made-in-Nigeria clothes and this is reflective of their love for culture and tradition. Analysis by geopolitical zone further revealed that South-West (98 percent) and South-East (97 percent) accounted for the zones with the highest percentage of those who wear Made-in-Nigeria. The current pattern of dressing for white collar workers in Nigerian is mainly Western (suits, jackets and formal wears), Fridays which are dress down days, see a majority of people wearing their traditional attires woven in various patterns, colors and materials celebrating their heritage. Acculturation has led Nigeria to depend largely on exports thus funding external economies, but with this new dress-days policy which the people support as shown in the chart below with 83 percent, the country’s home-grown textile industry can be revamped thus boosting the economy and providing employment. Upon further probing, it was revealed that the major reasons for supporting this policy to implement these dress- days were ‘‘it promotes our cultural heritage and national identity’’ (33 percent), ‘‘it will boost our economy’’ (17 percent) and ‘‘it will increase the patronage of locally made clothes’’ (16 percent) amongst other reasons. In conclusion, the results from this poll showed that a whopping majority (95 percent) of respondents said they wear attires and outfits made-in-Nigeria as it is a reflection of their heritage, culture and tradition as Nigerians.[4] Also majority of (83 percent) of Nigerians are open to the introduction of native attire dress days and the top reasons were; “it promotes our cultural heritage and national identity” (33 percent), “it will boost the economy” (17 percent), “it will increase the patronage of locally made clothes” (16 percent) amongst reasons.  While the Federal Executive Council FEC introduced Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days” as part of measures to uplift the nation’s culture and promote “Made-in-Nigeria textile products”, there is  need for an assessment on the adoption, implementation and impact of this measure across Nigeria in order to achieve its full aim. Finally, given the acceptance and love of Nigerians for cultural diversity especially through their support and promotion of “Made in Nigeria dress days”; the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development which was commemorated on the 21st of May calls for a deeper look into ways of harnessing the potentials of the fashion and creative industry. Nigeria is currently suffering a high unemployment rate of over 18[5] percent with estimates of over 7 million jobs lost in the last year alone[6]. Embracing its heritage and diversity by investing in home-grown industries like the food, text-tile, creative arts, manufacturing and entertainment will go a long way in drastically reducing unemployment and poverty rates, stimulate the economy and bring it to a healthy vibrancy and also foster peace and development. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1]http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/events/prizes-and-celebrations/celebrations/international-days/world-day-for-cultural-diversity-for-dialogue-and-development/ [2] http://dailypost.ng/2017/04/09/buhari-declares-mondays-wednesdays-made-nigeria-dress-day/ [3]http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/events/prizes-and-celebrations/celebrations/international-days/world-day-for-cultural-diversity-for-dialogue-and-development/ [4] http://www.noi-polls.com/root/index.php?pid=434&ptid=1&parentid=14 [5] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/12/nigerias-unemployment-rate-rises-14-2-18-8 [6] https://www.channelstv.com/2017/12/22/7-9-million-nigerians-became-unemployed-21months-nbs/

Abuja, Nigeria. May 15th, 2018 – The inauguration of the United Nation’s (UN) International Day of Living Together in Peace, having been officially recognised by the UN General Assembly in December 2017, will be celebrated on May 16th 2018. The annual celebration was declared as a means of regularly mobilizing the efforts of the international community to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity. The Day aims to uphold the desire to live and act together, united in differences and diversity, in order to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity and harmony. In addition, the Day further invites countries to promote reconciliation to help to ensure peace and sustainable development, by working with communities, faith leaders and other relevant actors, through reconciliatory measures and acts of service and by encouraging forgiveness and compassion among individuals. In line with this, NOIPolls presents results and findings from its previous public opinion poll which gauged the perception of Nigerians on what makes them proud to be Nigerians.  The poll revealed that, asides the abundance of natural resources, Nigerians are proud of the cultural diversity and the peaceful coexistence that exists within its enormous ethnographic heritage, amidst other factors shown in the chart below. These findings are encouraging considering that Nigeria has experienced it’s fair share of security challenges that has threatened peaceful coexistence amongst different tribes and religious groups in the country. Over time, there have been challenges of Boko Haram insurgency, Herdsmen and farmer’s crisis and sectarian crisis which have distorted peaceful coexistence in some regions of the country. There is no doubt that lack of peace and tranquillity hinders the development of any nation and Nigeria is not excluded. Peaceful coexistence requires the recognition, acceptance and respect for differences, fostered by healthy social interaction between different ethno-religious groups in Nigeria. The chart below revealed that the level of social interaction among the Nigeria population on a scale of 0 to 10 (where 0 represents no interaction and 10 represent a high level of interaction) stood at 7.5. This represents a positive level of social interaction among Nigerians; which can influence peaceful coexistence given other positive socio-economic factors such as governance and economic stability. In conclusion, given that Nigerians are open to peaceful coexistence as clearly shown in the findings above, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and other stakeholders should synergise efforts in public education on the importance of living together in peace in Nigeria. As a short term strategy, public education on peaceful coexistence may be carefully presented inform of public debates championed through various media outlets (especially radio stations) and social media platforms.  Also, open rallies in educational institutions, NYSC camps; public places such as motor parks and religious institutions can be adopted for the dissemination of key messages to foster greater peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.  As a long term strategy, government at all levels should integrate the doctrines of peaceful coexistence in the curriculum at the basic education in order to raise a new generation of peace loving citizens. Finally, the power of sports as a unifying tool can also be harnessed in bridging divides and strengthening tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com

Abuja, Nigeria. May 8th, 2018 – Following the recent documentary by the BBC[1] on widespread abuse of cough syrup with codeine, titled “Sweet Sweet Codeine”; and the subsequent ban on the importation and sale of codeine as an active pharmaceutical ingredient in Nigeria, NOIPolls presents results and findings from its previous public opinion poll on the prevalence of drug and substance abuse in Nigeria. The poll which corroborates the findings from the BBC documentary revealed that 91 percent of Nigerians believe that there is a high level of drug and substance abuse in the country. In addition, the poll found that marijuana, codeine and alcohol are the top three drugs and substances mostly abused in Nigeria, particularly amongst the teenagers and young adults aged between 15 – 29 years. In line with the above report, the Nigerians Senate, during its plenary in October 2017, raised alarm that 19 Northern states of the federation were under serious threat due to the high level of drug abuse encountered in across these states. According to vanguard news report, the lawmakers further lamented that an estimate of over three million bottles of codeine syrup were consumed daily in Kano and Jigawa states alone.[2] It further disclosed that in 2015 alone, over 2,205 people were arrested in the North-West geo-political zone by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over drug-related abuses.[3] Nigeria’s drug abuse problem has been put under the spotlight by this new investigative documentary. Across several major Nigerian cities, many young adults are known to be addicted to several illicit drugs but, in recent times, opioid-based cough syrups in particular have become a serious menace. In 2013, a public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls revealed that drug and substance is prevalent in the country and this assertion cuts across gender and geo-political zones. The opinions of Nigerians on drugs or substances that are most abused in Nigerians revealed that Marijuana (34 percent), codeine [Cough syrup (22 percent)] are the most abused drug and substance. Residents from the North-East accounted for the largest proportion of Nigerians who mentioned codeine. Codeine is an addictive opioid that is often prescribed to treat pain and is mixed in with some cough syrups. Although legal in certain circumstances, consuming large amounts of it can cause addiction and organ failure. According to media report, though the codeine is imported, the syrup is made in Nigeria by more than 20 pharmaceutical companies and codeine syrup is commonly mixed with soft drinks and often consumed by students. NAFDAC has been fighting this epidemic and in a recent raid, it seized about 24,000 bottles of codeine syrup from a single lorry in Katsina State.[4] Perception on age-group showed that those aged between 15 – 29 years accounted for the largest proportion (90 percent; (15 – 18 years) 33 percent + (19 – 29 years) 57 percent) of Nigerians associated with the abuse of various drugs and substances in the country. For instance, according to news reports, the target market in the illicit codeine trade typically consists of teenagers and young adults looking for a cheap high. Although it is illegal to sell codeine cough syrups without a doctor’s prescription, these drugs remain widely available as it is common to find them casually consumed, sometimes as part of mixtures, at local bars and parties. The thousands of young Nigerians already addicted are at risk of suffering from effects of sustained opioid abuse ranging from schizophrenia to organ failure and the issue is slightly higher in the Northern region where millions of young adults are unemployed.[5] In conclusion, the poll revealed that 90 percent of Nigerians acknowledged that there is a high level of drugs and substance abuse in Nigeria particularly amongst teenagers and young adults aged between 15 and 29 years. The top three drugs or substances commonly abused by this age demographics are Marijuana, Codeine (cough syrup) and alcohol. Although the Federal Government has recently banned the importation and permit for issuance of codeine in the country, the ban alone is not enough considering that most banned items have always found their way back into the black market. Moreover, there are many other dangerous and addictive substances outside of codeine that are still freely consumed on the streets of Nigeria. Tackling this menace requires a multi-pronged approach and collaboration amongst parents/guardians, school and religious authorities and all stakeholders in the medical and health sector. Parents and guardians must be aware of the happenings in their wards’ lives and become more involved while Government must not only create rehabilitation centres for addicts, there is a need to work with the health practitioners, stakeholders like NAFDAC and SON to regulate these opioid substances and enforce strict punishments to defaulting pharmacies and dispensaries. Teachers can be trained to enable them educate their pupils and students about the dangers of substance abuse and addiction. It is therefore pertinent for parents, government, school authorities, religious organisations, NGOs, and other stakeholders to synergise efforts towards developing sustainable polices and effective counselling and rehabilitation centres to manage addicts from the bondage of drug abuse. Policies should include the establishment of a federal drug control centre, under the auspices of the ministries of health and internal affairs with the aim of collating information on drug use and liaising with similar smaller units in each state. Lastly, public education on the effects of drug and substance abuse should be targeted at the vulnerable segment of society, such as the older children, adolescent and young adults, and should be carefully presented through open campaign rallies in public places like motor parks, NYSC camps, Universities, and other institutions of higher learning including Mosques and Churches. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1]British Broadcasting Corporation [2]https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/10/drug-abuse-3m-bottles-codeine-consumed-daily-north-senate/ [3] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/10/drug-abuse-3m-bottles-codeine-consumed-daily-north-senate/ [4] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-43961738 [5] https://qz.com/1266823/bbc-investigates-nigeria-codeine-opioid-crisis-from-cough-syrups/

Abuja, Nigeria. May 1st, 2018 – International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day in some countries is a celebration of labourers and the working classes promoted by the international labour movement which occurs every year on May 1st. In commemoration of Worker’s Day, NOIPolls reflects on findings from one of its past poll on issues facing Nigeria, conducted in January 2018 which revealed job creation (39 percent) as the top priority on citizens’ list of what government should focus on in 2018. This is no surprise as unemployment has been one of the greatest challenges facing the Nigerian economy snowballing into other socio-economic issues such as poverty and insecurity amongst others. Moreover the issue of unemployment has maintained an upward rising trend over the years. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country’s unemployment rate rose from 14.2 percent in Q4, 2016 to 18.8 percent in Q4, 2017. Not to mention youth unemployment rate in Nigeria which increased to 33.10 percent in the third quarter of 2017 from 29.50 percent in the second quarter of 2017.[1] Furthermore, while the onus is on the government to create jobs especially through an enabling environment for SMEs to thrive, there is a clear indication that Nigerians are willing to explore various opportunities in tackling the issue of unemployment.  In revealing their aspirations for 2018 (shown in figure below), majority (33 percent) of Nigerians indicated that they would love to start up a new business or expand their businesses for those who already have businesses, further buttressing the high rate of unemployment  in the country.[2] The result also portrayed that some Nigerians are either not employed or are not satisfied with their present state of employment as 19 percent disclosed that their goal for 2018 is getting a job or to have a change of job. In view of the May Day celebration, reflection on workers welfare especially in the area of minimum wage is also pertinent as this plays a huge role in incomes among families at the bottom of the income distribution as well as the poverty rate. A poll conducted on workers welfare in 2011 poll showed that Nigerians believed that the minimum wage of ₦18,000 naira was inadequate hence they clamoured for an upward review to ₦56,000 naira. Seven years following the outcry of Nigerians though the opinion poll on minimum wage, it still stands at ₦18,000 in 2018. While government is working towards a new minimum wage, it is important for an urgent implementation of necessary steps towards improving workers welfare in Nigeria. In line with this, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, during a dinner and award night organised to mark the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) 40th Anniversary celebration held in Abuja in March, 2018, stated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that the new National Minimum Wage meets the present economic realities. Finally, as Nigerians join the world in celebrating worker’s day, it is pertinent for government to address issues pertaining to job creation, minimum wage and welfare of Nigerian workers.[3] An important line of action the government needs to adopt in creating jobs through an enabling environment would be to address Nigeria’s infrastructure issue; especially in the area of adequate power supply as this would naturally incentivise the spring of more SMEs and attract more foreign investors. This will in turn lead to more employments opportunities in the country. Another critical line of action which needs to be considered is the revival of the agricultural sector with an emphasis on improving the image of agriculture in Nigeria to attract youth participation; employing greater use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT); partnership with the private sector; easy access to land and credit in order to generally make agriculture more lucrative. These would go a long way in tackling the issue of unemployment especially for the Nigerian youths as well as create opportunities for multiple streams of income even for the employed. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1] https://tradingeconomics.com/nigeria/youth-unemployment-rate [2] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/12/nigerias-unemployment-rate-rises-14-2-18-8/ [3] https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/260265-nigerian-govt-says-new-minimum-wage-will-meet-economic-realities.html

Abuja, Nigeria. April 24th, 2018 – The NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) report released for Q1, 2018 has revealed that the CCI declined from 70.5-points in Q4, 2017 to 65.6-points signifying a 4.9-points decrease. This decrease indicates that confidence among Nigerian households to spend declined in Q1, 2018. The NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index mirrors consumers’ attitudes on present and future economic prospects forecasting business conditions and likely developments for the months ahead. Since the strength of a nation’s economy is demonstrated by the willingness of its consumers to either spend or incur debt, the decrease experienced from the results obtained in Q1, 2018 may have a direct impact on the flow of business activities in the country. The two variables that make up the CCI; the Present Situation Index (PSI) and the Expectation Index (EI) both experienced a decline. The PSI experienced an 11.6-points decline from the results of Q4, 2017 (50.6-points) to stand at 39-points in Q1, 2018. Similarly, the EI declined by 5.6-points to stand at 79.9-points. These are the key highlights from the Q1, 2018 Portfolio of Indices Press Release. In February 2014, NOIPolls Limited introduced its portfolio of indices; the NOIPolls Personal Well-Being Index (PWBI), the NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) and the NOIPolls Eagle 30 Business Confidence Index (EBCI). The NOIPolls Personal Well-Being Index measures factors impacting on the lives of everyday Nigerians; thereby producing a complete view of the individual’s personal well-being. The NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index provides consumer assessments of the economic situation and their intentions and expectations for the future. The NOIPolls Eagle 30 Business Confidence Index measures business leaders’ perceptions and expectations about the Nigerian business environment using the top 30 companies in the country. Nigerian businesses, financial and government agencies largely depend on their perceptions and micro assessment of consumers’ expectation in making decisions. At best, they draw conclusion on the business environment based on information from their immediate surroundings while the minorities conduct surveys that are time and money consuming. However, the introduction of these indices provides indicators that will ensure stakeholders can detect and respond to changes in consumer behaviour, the economy, and the business environment in Nigeria. This report presents the Q1, 2018 results for the NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index (CCI). THE NOIPOLLS CONSUMER CONFIDENCE INDEX (CCI) The NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) in Q1, 2018 experienced a decline of 4.9-points to stand at 65.6-points. This may indicate a dip in the purchasing confidence of citizens which is capable of hindering economic activities in the country. There are two variables that make up the NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index; the Present Situation Index (PSI) and the Expectation Index (EI). The Present Situation Index (PSI) measures the current perception of consumers regarding their previous months’ purchasing power. Although the PSI experienced a decline of (11.6-points) from the results, the index remains firmly above average. Also, the Expectation Index, which measures consumers’ perception of their future (3 months), declined by 5.6-points to stand at 79.9-points. The figure below shows the year on year Q1 results and Q1, 2018 recorded a better PSI and overall CCI compared to other years in view; whereas, Q1, 2017 had the highest points on expectation indices. The PSI and EI comprises of 7 variables and five out of the 7 variables experienced a decline. The current prices of goods and services and the economic indices accounted for the highest decrease of 16.5points and 10.4-points respectively. These are highlighted below; Current Economic Situation Index – 39.2 The Current Economic Situation Index is the second highest decline. It decreased by 10.4-points to stand at 39.2-points compared to the result obtained in Q4, 2017. Expectation of the Country’s Economic Situation Index –93.9 This index declined by 1.6-points to stand at 93.9 in Q1 2018, signifying that consumers are hopeful about the country’s economic situation. Current Employment Condition Index – 53.7 The Current Employment Situation index declined by 0.9-point to stand at 53.7 in Q1, 2018. Expected Employment Condition Index – 98.0 This Index increased by 0.8-point to stand at 98.-points in Q1, 2018. Current Prices of Goods and Services Index – 24.0 The Current Prices of Goods and Services Index experienced the highest decline of 16.5-points in Q1, 2018. Expectation of Prices of Goods and Services Index – 81.3 The Expectation of Prices of Goods and Services Index declined by 1.4-points to stand at 81.3-points in Q1, 2018 signifying that consumers are anticipating a future reduction in the prices of goods and services. Expected Total Family Income Index – 69.2 The Expected Total Family Income Index increased by 4.3-points to stand at 69.2-points in Q1, 2018. TREND ANALYSIS Trend analysis revealed that the CCI, PSI and the EI all declined from results obtained in Q4, 2017. Monthly trend analysis showed that the CCI experienced a steady decline since February 2018. In conclusion, the NOIPolls Consumer Confidence Index declined by 4.9-points in Q1, 2018 to stand at 65.6 from the 70.5 point obtained in Q4, 2017. The CCI is a vital tool which helps in predicting consumer spending patterns as they may affect the overall economic activities of Nigeria. Therefore, when consumers are confident of their futures, their propensity to spend increases which in turn drives higher economic growth, however, if consumers are not confident, as revealed by this data, they tend to save rather than spend and perhaps constrain economic growth. The decline in the CCI of Q1, 2018 could be mainly driven by a rising pessimism amongst Nigerian households in regard to their views on current economic conditions. This result shows that consumer expectations concerning future economic developments have declined modestly. Survey Methods The Consumer Confidence Index Poll was conducted in Quarter 1, 2018. The CCI involved telephone interviews of a random nationwide sample. 3,000 randomly selected phone-owning Nigerians aged 18 years and above, representing the six geopolitical zones in the country, were interviewed. With a sample of this size, we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus 3%. NOIPolls Limited, No1 for country specific polling services in West Africa. We conduct periodic opinion polls and studies on various socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria. More information is available at www.noi-polls.com and you can downlaod our mobile NOIPolls on your smartphone. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com

Abuja, Nigeria. April 17th, 2018 – Quality education has its greatest testimony as being the means of developing human intelligence and skills needed to produce wealth and sustain a suitable and democratic society. Education is very vital especially in sharpening the mind and increasing the knowledge of an individual thereby facilitating positive impacts in the society. The current state of education in Nigeria has remained a matter of concern as it has consistently ranked low in world rankings[1] and is continuously plagued by inadequate funding and corruption. The challenges in the nation’s education sector is mostly experienced in the two most important phases of education; primary and secondary schools where pupils are at their formative stages and require the best foundation of education. The sector has also been affected by the frequent political unrest which has generated negative effects on the education system. For example, the Borno State Government recently closed female boarding schools in 25 out of its 27 Local Government Areas (LGA) of the state to forestall abduction of school girls by the Boko Haram insurgents.[2] The West African Examination Council (WAEC) recently announced the results of the first series of the new diet of its January/ February series of the 2018 West African Senior School Certificate Examination for Private Candidates in Nigeria and it revealed that 83 percent of the candidates who wrote the examination failed.[3] This failure, which could directly be attributed to the decline in the quality of education in Nigeria, corroborates findings from a past poll on education which was conducted by NOIPolls in 2016. The poll revealed that 60 percent of Nigerians blamed the country’s poor education system as the main reason for the increasing desire to obtain foreign degrees by Nigerian students, in spite the huge cost of schooling abroad, with reasons ranging from a higher standard of education, to job opportunities, and a higher standard of living. Despite constant agitations by citizens for a considerable improvement in Nigeria’s education sector, providing quality education has continued to be a problem in the country. This creates huge impact on employability thereby increasing the rate of unemployment in Nigeria. Furthermore, according to global standards, factors that hinder the achievement of quality education in Nigeria have been identified by stakeholders in the education sector as poor funding of the sector by the government, poorly planned and obsolete curricula and poor remunerations of teachers. These and other factors have been militating against the provision of standard education in Nigeria. In assessing academic performance, job excellence and societal contributions of Nigerians who studied abroad, the poll showed that respondents believed that Nigerians who studied abroad are better off in these three attributes than their local counterparts as shown in the figure below. In conclusion, investment in education needs to become much more efficient, requiring the government to prioritize the education sector since it is considered as key to economic prosperity and has been highlighted as the best possible way for combating global poverty, diseases and ensuring sustainable development. Therefore, the government should collaborate with some international partners to achieve major educational transformations in the Nigerian education system. The involvement of major stakeholders in the Nigerian education sector, with a good compliment by international agencies, NGOs, foundations, will be essential if the goals and potential of quality education are to be realized in Nigeria. Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the general public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as author whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect its views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or fact or for any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken as a result of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions or views herein constitute a judgment as at the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls’ current findings and/or thinking. Press Contact The Editor Email: editor@noi-polls.com [1] https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2018/world-ranking#survey-answer [2] http://punchng.com/bharam-borno-shut-female-boarding-schools-in-25-lgs/ [3] http://punchng.com/83-of-candidates-fail-2018-wassce-2/