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It’s time to recover Plateau’s lost glory

By Malam Aminu Wase

Once upon a time, Plateau State was a beacon of peace and prosperity. Nestled in the heart of Nigeria, it was a place where nature, culture, and hospitality came together in perfect harmony. Tourists enjoyed its cool weather, striking landscapes, and vibrant local communities. The Tin City, as Jos was fondly called, bustled with life, creativity, and promise.

But the tragic eruptions of religious and ethnic crises turned that promise into pain. In just a few years, the spirit of unity that defined Plateau faded, and the state began slowly declining economically, socially, and psychologically. What once symbolised Nigeria’s peaceful coexistence became a cautionary tale.

As we reflect on what was lost, we must confront what can still be regained. The nostalgia we feel for those better days is not just sentimental—it is a reminder of what is possible when peace reigns. Plateau’s beauty remains, as does the enduring goodwill of its people. We need a collective recommitment to peace, tolerance, and shared progress.

Let us not be deceived: the divisions that tore through our communities were not inevitable. They were fanned by the greed and political ambition of a few elites, who found power in division. But the people have grown wiser. Today, Plateau has a growing desire to put those dark times behind us and rebuild a society anchored in unity and mutual respect.

The future of Plateau depends on us, ordinary citizens who choose dialogue over conflict, cooperation over suspicion. If we unite sincerely, we can restore trust, attract investment, and lay the foundation for a thriving economy. Peace is not a luxury—it is the bedrock of development.

With stability, there is no limit to what Plateau can achieve. Its tourism potential, agricultural wealth, and strategic location can be leveraged to turn it into a hub of economic activity, perhaps even rivalling global success stories like the UAE, in sha Allah.

Plateau belongs to all of us. It is our shared heritage and responsibility. The time to recover its lost glory is now.

NIPSS, PRNigeria and the alarming breach of digital ethics

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

I never truly grasped the danger of exposing personal information in the digital space until Mr. Yushau Shuaib, my boss and mentor, handed me a book—Born Digital: Understanding the First Generation of Digital Natives by John Palfrey and Urs Gasser. 

It was an eye-opener, full of prescient warnings about the hidden costs of living in a world where our lives are increasingly mediated by technology. Ironically, neither of us imagined that the warnings in that book would soon play out so personally, and so dramatically.

Mr. Shuaib, a respected public relations expert and founder of PRNigeria, participated in Senior Executive Course 47 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). On May 2, 2025, he was abruptly suspended from the course. 

His offence? Publishing articles highlighting and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Digital and Blue Economy reforms. One article, “Understanding the ‘Blue’ in the Blue Economy,” praised the government’s innovative strides in marine resource development. 

Another, “NIPSS Goes Digital,” celebrated the institute’s transition to a paperless administrative system—part of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda. While he did not write or edit the latter, it appeared on his media platform.

In response to his suspension, Mr. Shuaib petitioned the President, citing harassment, cyberbullying, and professional ostracism. He argued that the action was punitive and lacked due process. 

NIPSS, however, insisted he breached institutional policy by publishing materials related to the institute without clearance—a rule they claim he had previously been warned about.

But a chilling twist escalated the matter beyond internal disciplinary lines: PRNigeria’s editorial email account was allegedly compromised. Confidential communications between journalists and their sources, private story drafts, and editorial exchanges were reportedly accessed without consent. 

The intrusion, attributed to officials of the same institute that suspended Mr. Shuaib, raised serious ethical and legal concerns. This was no ordinary data breach. It directly violated professional boundaries, journalistic independence, and Nigeria’s own Cybercrime Act. 

It represented something more insidious than a lapse in judgment—it was, in many ways, a digital form of trespass. The incident sent ripples through the media and security circles. 

If an elite policy institute tasked with grooming Nigeria’s future strategic leaders could be implicated in such an act, what message does that send about our national commitment to digital ethics and the rule of law?

It is precisely the kind of scenario “Born Digital” warns about—a world where our private digital footprints are vulnerable not just to hackers or corporations but also to institutions that should be protecting those rights.

In one haunting passage, the authors write: “Young people who are living their lives mediated by digital technologies will pay a higher price, sometimes down the road, for the way privacy is handled in this converged, hybrid environment… 

“Most young people are extremely likely to leave something behind in cyberspace that will become a lot like a tattoo, something connected to them that they cannot get rid of later in life.”

That line has stayed with me because it is no longer just about young people; it is about all of us. Our identities, habits, preferences, locations, communications, and relationships are all being recorded, stored, and sometimes exploited through what are now known as digital dossiers.

These dossiers are detailed archives of our lives compiled by apps, platforms, websites, and even institutions. They are often created without our consent or awareness. While they promise convenience and personalised experiences, they also have profound risks.

Privacy has become a currency we are forced to spend for access. And increasingly, it is a luxury only a few can afford. The NIPSS breach is a wake-up call. It reveals the fragile boundaries between transparency and intrusion, policy enforcement and personal violation. 

It is a reminder that digital transformation must be matched by ethical responsibility and legal accountability. As a journalist, I have often lived under the illusion of digital safety. 

But as a parent, I now worry for my young daughter and the millions like her growing up in a world where data is your shadow—and sometimes, your shackle. We must do more. We must demand stronger data protection laws, foster a culture of privacy awareness, and hold institutions accountable, no matter how revered. 

Our digital world should not come at the cost of our humanity, dignity, or freedom. The threats are real, the consequences are near, and the time to act is now.

Professor Abubakar Roko passes away

By Muhammad Abubakar

The academic community is mourning the passing of Professor Abubakar Roko, a respected lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Physical and Computing. He died after a period of illness, despite efforts made to secure advanced medical treatment abroad.

Professor Roko had been battling a critical health condition that required specialist care, prompting a crowdfunding campaign to support his medical trip to Cairo, Egypt. The campaign received overwhelming support from colleagues, students, friends, and well-wishers.

Notably, the Governor of Kano State, Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf, contributed ₦5,000,000 to the cause, a gesture that was widely appreciated by the family and academic community.

In a message announcing his passing, the department expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported him during his time of need. “We are saddened to announce the demise of Professor Abubakar Roko… May Allah SWT reward you abundantly,” the statement read.

Prayers are being offered across the campus and beyond for the repose of his soul. “May Allah bestow His grace on him,” the department added.

Professor Roko is remembered not only for his academic excellence but also for his humility and dedication to the advancement of computer science education in Nigeria.

Dangote names refinery access road after President Tinubu

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, on Thursday named the road leading to the Dangote Refinery after President Bola Tinubu.

The honour was announced during President Tinubu’s first visit to the refinery, where he also commissioned the Lekki Deep Sea Port concrete road and flagged off Section 2 of the Lagos-Calabar superhighway.

Dangote disclosed that his company is investing N900 billion in road construction across Nigeria, despite paying N450 billion in taxes last year.

The newly named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road connects the refinery to key infrastructure, including the Sagamu-Benin Expressway.

Elder statesman Jibril Aminu dies at 85

By Uzair Adam

Renowned academic and former Minister of Education and Petroleum, Professor Jubril Aminu, died at the age of 85.

The Daily Reality gathered that Professor Aminu passed away on Thursday in Abuja after a prolonged illness.

A prominent diplomat, medical doctor, and politician, Professor Aminu will be laid to rest in his hometown of Song Local Government Area, Adamawa State, following funeral prayers at 2:00 p.m. today at the Abuja National Mosque.

Professor Aminu’s career spanned decades of public service. He graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1965 as the best student from the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

He earned a PhD in Medicine from the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, in 1972.

He served as Minister of Education and later as Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources between 1989 and 1992. Professor Aminu was Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2003 and represented Adamawa Central as a senator from 2003 to 2011.

He also participated as a delegate in the National Constitutional Conference from 1994 to 1995.

While leading the Petroleum Ministry, he was elected President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation in 1991 and later served as President of the OPEC Conference from 1991 to 1992.

Kannywood Movie Review: Da Na Sani

The ‘Taskar Kannywood’ is a YouTube show that seeks to revive the glory of feature films that has been long abandoned since the emergence of web and TV serials. The show runs every Sunday, unveiling fresh standalone movies in a one-episode-per-week order, followed by a review and Q & A sessions to further engage the audience for criticism and opinions. The 7th episode, Da Na Sani, is the collection’s latest and most hyped release.

The film tells the story of a rather humourless and unromantic man (Mansur) married to a young girl (Samira) in her late teens. Samira would always act reminiscent of what we fondly call ‘Kwailanci’ (excessive childishness), which she believes to be her love language to express her romance, a gesture her husband finds too awkward and a clear affront to his dignity.

The biggest drama erupts when she draws a heart emoji with the caption “I love you” on his face while he is asleep and asks if he is ready so she can colour the drawings for a better look. Enraged, he gives her a few slaps and a stark warning about her childish manners, leaving her in tears as he heads back to the bathroom to clean up before leaving for work.

Moments later, after getting housework done, she develops severe chest pain, prompting her to be rushed to a hospital. But she abruptly dies after a brief diagnosis.

Returning home, Mansur finds a note she had dropped containing an apology for her wrongs, promising to change her manners if she made it back alive, plus a reminder that the meal she prepared for him and a visiting friend is already at the dining table. He screams out loud with tears running down his cheeks as he scatters the ice cream and candies he brought as a consolation package, realising the tragedy could have been avoided if he had tolerated her innocent frivolity.

Filled with emotional moments, the movie is ultimately compelling not only for its beautifully crafted drama but also for exposing the gap of misunderstanding between partners and the little effort it takes to fill it. The film is indeed a huge success and well worth watching.

Additionally, the production quality is top-notch, and both Aminu Shareef Momo (Mansur) and Amina Shehu Lulu (Samira) have delivered exceptionally well, thanks to Ahmad Bifa’s directorial expertise in handling family sagas.

However, the running time is relatively short for such a tragic story. The audience would have wanted a longer time frame to see the emotional trauma Mansur would supposedly go through as relief for the painful death of their favourite character, Samira. I rate it 4/5.

Reviewed by

Umar Abdullahi

Kano

umarabdullahiabu@gmail.com

AU Commission reacts to US travel ban, urges dialogue and cooperation

By Muhammad Abubakar

The African Union Commission has expressed concern over the recent travel restrictions imposed by the United States, which affect nationals from several countries, including some within the African continent.

In a statement released this week, the Commission acknowledged the right of sovereign nations to protect their borders and ensure the safety of their citizens. However, it urged the US government to exercise this right in a manner that is “balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa.”

The Commission warned that the new travel restrictions could negatively impact people-to-people connections, educational exchanges, business relations, and the diplomatic ties cultivated over decades between Africa and the US.

“Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation,” the statement noted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and strengthening those bonds.

The Commission also called on the US administration to consider a more consultative and inclusive approach in such policy decisions, advocating for constructive dialogue with the countries affected.

Highlighting the value of transparency and collaboration, the AU Commission reiterated its readiness to support any initiatives to foster mutual understanding, address the underlying concerns, and enhance cooperation between the two sides.

The statement comes amid increasing scrutiny of the broader implications of the US travel policy on international relations and multilateral engagement.

Decay at Bauchi healthcare facility: Tattered sickbed greets patients at emergency unit

By The Daily Reality

In what can only be described as a disturbing reflection of neglect, The Daily Reality has uncovered the deplorable state of facilities at the Tashan Babiye Primary Health Care Centre’s Accident and Emergency Unit in Bauchi metropolis.

A visit by our reporter revealed a distressing scene: a tattered, unsanitary sickbed where patients are expected to receive emergency medical care.

The bed, visibly torn and heavily stained, sits in a room with equally grimy walls—conditions that pose serious health risks to the very people the facility is meant to treat.

Despite repeated efforts by our correspondent to speak with the hospital’s management for a comment on the deteriorating condition, no official response was received as of the time of filing this report.

What makes this situation even more shocking is the location of the hospital—situated just a few kilometres from the Bauchi State Government House.

The proximity of such a facility to the seat of power raises urgent questions about the government’s commitment to basic health care delivery in the state.

Tashan Babiye PHC, which has been in operation since 1978, is supposed to offer round-the-clock services, including emergency care.

Yet, the condition of its facilities tells a troubling story of neglect and abandonment.

The image attached to this report, captured by our reporter, shows the exact state of the bed currently in use at the emergency unit.

It is a stark symbol of the decay within a health system that countless Bauchi residents depend on.

Public health experts warn that such conditions not only endanger patients but also demoralize medical staff who work under impossible circumstances.

A patient The Daily Reality spoke with calls on the Bauchi State Ministry of Health and the relevant authorities to immediately address the rot at the Tashan Babiye Primary Health Care Centre—starting with the very bed meant to save lives.

NSA honours customs, others for joint crackdown on illicit drugs

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their collaborative efforts in curbing illicit drugs and other prohibited items.

During a meeting at his Abuja office on June 3, 2025, Ribadu recognised the three agencies for their roles in a recent operation that led to the destruction of 206 containers and one trailer-load of illegal pharmaceuticals and narcotics.

He also confirmed the completion of an extensive investigation involving 50 additional containers, describing the exercise as a benchmark for effective cooperation in national security.

Praising the dedication of all parties involved, Ribadu said, “This is an acknowledgment of the good work you’ve been doing. Nigeria is changing. It won’t be business as usual anymore. We’ll go after the criminals who bring these poisons into our country.”

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that the Service had previously declared a state of emergency on the smuggling of illicit pharmaceuticals.

He explained that close coordination among the agencies, with support from the NSA’s office, made it possible to swiftly detect and eliminate dangerous products.

“We are stronger together,” Adeniyi stated. “And we will remain vigilant to ensure these substances never make it into the wrong hands.”

Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the operation was in line with Nigeria’s National Action Plan against drug abuse and the importation of unregistered pharmaceuticals.

She revealed that over 1,300 security personnel had been mobilised under the NSA’s orders to support Customs, NAFDAC, and NDLEA operations nationwide.

“These unregistered and unwholesome products are a danger to our women and children,” she cautioned.

“Our continued collaboration with Customs and NDLEA is saving lives.”Representing the NDLEA Chairman, Shadrac Haruna also pointed to the impact of an inter-agency committee set up by the CGC.

He noted that the committee had significantly helped in intercepting drugs and dismantling illegal storage facilities.

As part of the event, plaques and letters of commendation were presented to the heads of the three agencies.

The NSA was also handed a Certificate of Destruction for the confiscated items—a symbolic gesture reinforcing Nigeria’s resolve to fight the drug menace.

Northwest university students battle new fee hike amid economic hardship

By Anas Abbas, Anwar Usman and Uzair Adam

There is growing outrage among the students of Northwest University, Kano, following a significant increase in school fees for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The Daily Reality gathered that the increase is nearly 100 percent, causing many students to question whether they will be able to continue their studies given the worsening economic situation in the country.

In an exclusive interview with our reporters, the students, many of whom pay their own fees, have made passionate pleas to the school authorities to reconsider the hike.

They warn that if the situation remains unchanged, higher education will be accessible only to the children of the elites in the country.

The Daily Reality recalls that the previous reduction in fees by 50 percent, initiated by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, had made the university one of the most accessible institutions in the state.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate as of January 2025 is 24.48 percent. Though it has dropped from the December 2024 figure of 34.80 percent, Nigerians continue to struggle with the high cost of everyday necessities.

The fee hike is untimely

Most of the students who spoke to The Daily Reality expressed deep concern, describing the increase as ill-timed, especially in light of the economic hardship in Nigeria.

They lamented that they were not prepared for the hike and had no plans to cope with it, leading to troubling thoughts about their future and the possibility of continuing their studies.

One student, Ibrahim Muhammad (not his real name), shared his worries with The Daily Reality, stating, “The registration fee is beyond imagination.”

He added that the school authorities did not inform them in advance, and they were shocked to see the Remita platform reflecting the sudden increase—an amount they find unbearable.

Muhammad, who came to Kano from a neighbouring state, highlighted the importance of the earlier fee reduction, saying, “I chose this university because of the 50% reduction. We urge Governor Abba to consider our plight and take action.”

The burden is too heavy

Another student, Isma’il Shu’aibu (also not his real name), voiced his frustration: “Last session, I paid 18,000 naira, but now I’m being asked to pay 57,000 naira.”

Shu’aibu further added that, “This is far too much, and many students will struggle to afford it.”

A Growing Crisis

The students noted that the increase would only worsen an already challenging situation, urging the school authorities to reconsider their decision.

Shu’aibu added that even the previous fee of 18,000 naira was a struggle for many students, pushing some to consider dropping out.

“Many students are appealing through the media for help to pay their registration fees,” he lamented.

“As I speak to you, I am paying for my own education. I don’t have 57,000 naira, and I don’t know where to find it,” Shu’aibu concluded.

Many students who feared to speak with journalists expressed dissatisfaction about the hike. They shared a common concern about how the new fees might force them to abandon their studies.

They expressed, “We have no idea how we will manage to pay this new fee. It’s simply too much for us, especially with how hard it is to survive these days.”

Increase a blessing in disguise – Authority

Despite bitter complaints from students, the school authorities argue that the increase is, in fact, a blessing in disguise for them.

Speaking to The Daily Reality, the university registrar, Malam Isyaku Adamu, confirmed the hike and explained that it would help students participate in the National Education Loan Fund (Nelfund), noting that many of their students had not been taking advantage of the programme.

He stated, “The Nelfund is the national cake. If Musa and Isa refuse to eat, Jon and Jack will eat. So this is to also encourage our students to participate and benefit from the Federal Government’s programme.”

He added that the increase was also meant to help the university meet certain critical needs. Adamu emphasized that Northwest University is still among the most affordable institutions in Nigeria, based on the university’s own research.

“If you look at what the students pay in a year, even after maintaining laboratories, the library, health services, electricity, water, and environmental sanitation, the money is still very cheap,” he said.

He concluded that the fees are not even sufficient to cover all expenses, reiterating that even primary and secondary school pupils pay more than what Northwest University students pay per year.