Month: August 2023

Erling Haaland clinches UEFA Player of the Year Award, outshining De Bruyne, Messi

By Muhammadu SabiuErling Haaland emerged victorious as he secured the coveted UEFA Player of the Year award.

The award, presented on Thursday, came as a resounding recognition of Haaland’s exceptional performance during the 2022/23 season.

This achievement saw him surpass renowned contenders Kevin de Bruyne and Lionel Messi, making his mark on the European football stage.

The UEFA Player of the Year award stands as a testament to the dedication and prowess exhibited by players in the previous season of European football.

Honoring remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport, this prestigious accolade holds a special place in the hearts of both players and fans alike.

The rigorous selection process involved a panel of esteemed judges, comprised of respected coaches and journalists meticulously chosen by the European Sports Media.

Through careful consideration, this jury methodically identified the standout performers from the 2022/23 season, eventually narrowing down the selection to the top three players.

Erling Haaland’s triumph in claiming the UEFA Player of the Year award is a reflection of his consistent excellence on the field.

His exceptional skill, strategic prowess, and remarkable sportsmanship have not only impressed fans and peers but have also earned him this remarkable distinction.

Namadi emulates Abba Gida-gida, covers tuition fees for undergraduates hailing from Jigawa

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has given the green light to cover the registration fees for undergraduate students hailing from the state. 

These include students who are pursuing various courses at prestigious institutions such as Federal University, Dutse (FUD), Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Kano State University of Technology (KUST), and the University of Maiduguri. 

With a substantial amount of One Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million Twenty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty Naira (N167,024,950.00) allocated for this purpose, the decision reflects the current administration’s commitment to alleviating the financial strain on families with limited income. 

As university registration fees continue to rise, this initiative aims to ensure that education remains accessible and inclusive. 

The Jigawa State Council has gone a step further by approving a revision of the bursary scholarship for local Jigawa State students. 

Effective immediately, the bursary payment will now be disbursed at the onset of each academic session. 

Recall that Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, recently made a similar gesture in the face of the current economic quagmire by allocating over N700 million to cover the tuition costs of students hailing from Kano and studying at Bayero University Kano.

Reviving our nation

By Nafisa Ismail Sadiq

In a world brimming with distractions, it’s time for us to turn our gaze inwards and confront the pressing issues that plague our society. As citizens of this great nation, we often find ourselves ensnared by fleeting trends and shallow debates, all while the true problems continue to fester unchecked. It’s high time for a transformative shift, a change that will not only uplift us but also propel us towards a brighter future.

In Nigeria, a land rich in culture and potential, we are facing challenges that demand our immediate attention. Instead of delving into the depths of our problems, we gravitate towards inconsequential matters that only steer us away from progress. Our nation is grappling with issues like poverty, unemployment, and a crumbling education sector. These are the trends that should be at the forefront of our collective consciousness, yet they remain overshadowed by trivial concerns.

Consider the paradox of our society, where wrongdoers are hailed as heroes and those who strive to create a positive impact are left to languish in obscurity. Our universities, once shining beacons of knowledge, are now plagued by neglect and inadequate resources. Educators, who hold the power to shape the minds of the next generation, struggle to make ends meet. The rising cost of living juxtaposed with stagnant salaries has left them in a dire predicament.

Our dependence on imports further weakens our economy and undermines our potential for self-reliance. Instead of leveraging our resources to bolster local industries, we remain fixated on foreign goods that drain our wealth. We must learn from those who have charted their own course to development, adopting strategies that suit our unique circumstances while staying true to our cultural identity.

The power of social media is undeniable, yet we often wield it irresponsibly. We showcase the inconsequential, turning a blind eye to the stark realities that demand our attention. People are suffering, struggling to find their next meal, while the rich amass greater fortunes. The ever-widening wealth gap is a stark reminder of our misplaced priorities.

It’s time to redirect our focus, to channel our collective energy into tackling the issues that truly matter. Poverty, education, employment – these are the trends we should be confronting head-on. By acknowledging and addressing the hardships that many endure, we can foster a society that thrives on compassion and cooperation.

As we stand at this crossroads, let us unite to create a narrative of change and hope. Let us shatter the shackles of complacency and dare to dream of a Nigeria where progress is not just an aspiration, but a reality. The path won’t be easy, but it’s one that promises fulfillment, prosperity, and a legacy of positive transformation.

It’s time to rise above the noise, to champion the causes that truly define us. Together, let’s pave the way for a better tomorrow, one in which our efforts reflect our values and our actions resonate globally. The change begins with us – let’s make it count.

Nafisa Ismail sadiq is a 300-level student in the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University Kano. She can be reached via nafisasadiq005@gmail.com

Gabon’s political turmoil continues: President Bongo grapples with coup fallout 

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

In the aftermath of the recent coup attempt in Gabon, President Alain Bernard Bongo finds himself at the centre of a political storm that has shaken the nation. 

Born in neighbouring Congo-Brazzaville in February 1959, Bongo’s journey from a one-time funk singer to the head of a longstanding political dynasty has been one of both fascination and controversy. 

Stepping into his father’s shoes to continue a family legacy that spanned over 50 years, President Bongo has been a figure of polarising opinion. 

Some see him as a spoilt playboy prince who views ruling the oil-rich country as his birthright. However, others regard him as a reformer who has made efforts to diversify Gabon’s economy. 

He was initially voted into power democratically by the masses, a testament to his perceived commitment to change. 

Despite his tenure, President Bongo’s legitimacy has consistently been under scrutiny from political opponents. Allegations of fraud marred his 2016 election victory, casting a shadow on his presidency.

Calls for his resignation gained traction following a period of ill health in 2018, which culminated in a failed coup attempt. This event highlighted the fragility of his leadership and exposed divisions within the country. 

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the recent coup, questions about President Bongo’s ability to maintain control and foster stability continue to surface. 

The unfolding events have once again ignited debates about his governance style and the true nature of his rule.

With opposition forces emboldened and citizens expressing varying degrees of dissatisfaction, Gabon stands at a crossroads where its future hangs in the balance under the leadership of President Bongo.

Corps members advised to desist from seeking relocation

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The 2023 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Corps members deployed to Katsina State have received advice from retired deputy director of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Fadimatu Muhammad, to refrain from seeking relocation and instead embrace their mandatory one-year service in the assigned state. 

This advice was given during a lecture at the NYSC permanent orientation camp along Mani Road in Katsina. With a total of 1,070 corps members inducted on August 18, the three-week orientation course aims to provide participants with a solid foundation for their upcoming service year. 

Mrs. Muhammad emphasised the significance of unity among Nigerians and explained that continuous requests for relocation could undermine the very purpose of the NYSC scheme. 

During her lecture, Mrs. Muhammad delved into the historical background, mission, and vision of the NYSC, urging corps members to participate actively in the in-camp Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program. 

She stressed that cultivating relevant skills would be essential in a landscape where traditional white-collar jobs are becoming scarcer.

Kano governor announces 50% tuition fee reduction in state-owned tertiary institutions

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

In the wake of ongoing economic challenges and the recent policy shift to remove petrol subsidies, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken a significant step to ease the financial burden on students and their families. 

Announcing the reduction in a Facebook post yesterday, Governor Yusuf wrote: “Earlier today, I had an important meeting with the heads of all state-owned tertiary institutions in Kano State, where I directed that tuition fee at the institutions be slashed by 50% with immediate effect. – AKY”.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf emphasised the importance of affordable education and the need to support the populace during these testing times. 

In a meeting held earlier today, he met with the heads of various state-owned tertiary institutions within Kano State. 

During the meeting, the governor directed that tuition fees be slashed by half, offering much-needed relief to students pursuing higher education. 

The decision comes as the economic challenges faced by citizens have been exacerbated by the removal of petrol subsidies, a move aimed at addressing fiscal concerns. 

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to cut tuition fees reflects a commitment to alleviating financial pressures on families and promoting education accessibility. 

The tuition fee reduction is expected to positively impact thousands of students across Kano State, fostering an environment where higher education remains attainable despite economic constraints.

Underperforming ministers will be fired—Presidency

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Ajuri Ngelale, President Bola Tinubu’s special assistant for media and publicity, revealed that the president would not hesitate to axe any minister who falls short of expectations. 

In an interview with Channels TV Sunrise Daily on Monday, Mr. Ngelale said that the president has established deadlines and goals for each member of his cabinet. 

He stated that a minister could lose their position if they are not successful in meeting their objectives. 

“President Bola Tinubu is someone who has the results. He says ‘these are your benchmarks, I know what I want you to achieve. 

“I’m not expecting you to just come up with some plan when you get there. I’m telling you the time frame within which I expect you to achieve,” he said. 

“And if you don’t, there are consequences. He’s ready to fire a minister at the drop of a dime if he is not getting what he wants. Absolutely,” Mr Ngelale added.

Dangote Cement graduates 50 ‘Special’ Truck Drivers

By Aisar Fagge

The Dangote Articulated Truck Driving School has graduated 50 Special Truck Drivers on weekend.

It was gathered that ten of the drivers were women and trained on Defensive Driving for three months.

A statement signed by the spokesman of the Dangote Group, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, and made available to journalists on Monday, disclosed.

The statement qouted Mr. Ajay Singh, the Divisional Director of the Dangote Cement Plc, Transport section, Obajana Plant, Kogi State, to have said that the Articulated Driving School was aimed at taming the tide of auto crash in Nigeria.

Singh who spoke during the graduation ceremony added that “The company has a zero tolerance for auto crash, which informed the setting up of different programmes, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

“Head of Human Resources, Mr. Azeez Adeniyi said the Dangote Articulated Truck Driving School, is unique, being the first of its kind in the history of Nigeria,” he stated.

The statement further added that “He (Singh) urged the graduates to maximize the advantages from the training, adding that it was a rare and golden opportunity to have passed through the school.

“The school manager, Mr. Daniel Marcus Akuso, said some of the courses offered for the Batch A include: Civic Education, English, Mathematics, Defensive Driving, Truck Handling, Maintenance Technology, DCT Administration Procedures, Root Cause Analysis, Health and Science, Road Signs and Codes.

“Mr. Akuso said the graduates will now undertake a six-month attachment to enable them to acquire practical experience.

“Speaking, Deputy Road Commandant, (OC Instructor) of the FRSC attached to Dangote Driving School, Engr Mukhtar Umar said his agency plays a significant role in the training and certification of old drivers and newly recruited trainees.

“We teach them defensive driving, road signs, responsibilities of the driver, driving culture, and then certify them. These are Special Drivers,” Engr Umar said.

“Representative of Fantique Driving Centre, South Africa, Mr. Jacques Van Heerden, said the graduates were trained on defensive driving, assuring that if they abide by the lessons learned from the courses, it will help Nigeria in reducing the menace of auto crash.

“On his part, Col Ravig Kumar, Chief General Manager, Maintenance Department, expressed optimism that the female drivers, especially, will make Nigeria proud, while urging them not to disappoint the company, wherever they may find themselves.

“Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mr. Ajayi Kehinde Daniel, said: “We are not just drivers, but defensive drivers. Throughout this period of training, we have been exposed to the causes of road accidents, and how to avoid them. Some of these causes, if not all, are actually avoidable.”

“Also present at the Graduation Ceremony were: Head of Department, Post Trip Inspection(PTI), Mr. Charles Theophilus, Head of Control, Mr. Suresh Ramamoorthy, Col Hemant Rana, as well as other members of the Fantique Training Centre of South Africa: Pieter Momberg and Anton Schenk,” the statement added.

João Cancelo poised to make shocking loan move to Barcelona from Manchester City

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Portuguese football star João Cancelo is on the brink of making a remarkable move. 

The highly anticipated transfer is set to see Cancelo trade his Manchester City jersey for the iconic colours of Barcelona as the clubs finalise an imminent loan deal. 

Reports indicate that the documents for the agreement are being exchanged at this very moment, with an intriguing buy-option clause attached to the arrangement. 

The excitement is palpable among fans, as the player himself is reportedly prepared to take flight and embark on a new chapter in his career. 

However, the deal was cloaked in secrecy until the very last moment, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of the sudden and unexpected twist.

Atiku on Tinubu’s neck over alleged false school certificates

By Uzair Adam Imam

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has lambasted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over alleged false academic records.

Our reporters gathered that Tinubu’s credentials show that he graduated from Chicago State University (CSU) in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting and management.

However, Abubakar, who was the former Vice President of Nigeria, challenged Tinubu for not attending primary and secondary schools.

The Daily Reality learned that Abubakar had recently approached a U.S. court for an order compelling CSU to release the academic records of Tinubu.

Taking to his Twitter account on Sunday, Abubakar wondered how President Tinubu attended Chicago State University without primary and secondary education.

Atiku wrote, “I woke up this morning wondering how we got to this cul de sac. In 1999, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu claimed he attended St. John’s Primary School, Aroloya, Lagos, before proceeding to Children Home School in Ibadan.

“According to him, his next port of call in his educational journey was Government College Ibadan and, Richard Daley College and Chicago State University in the United States.

“Curiously, in 2023, Tinubu settled with attending only Chicago State University. I am scratching my head. How is that possible?

“Methinks that all well-meaning Nigerians should be as confused as I am with Tinubu’s declaration that he had no primary and secondary education, yet he has a university degree.

“You may wish to #AskTinubu how he attained this feat so that we can learn from his ingenuity,” he added.