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By Anwar Usman

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday, affirmed that Nigerians are going through a serious difficulties, but assured that the situation will soon change for the better.

While Tinubu insisted that his administration was on the right track, he also noted that solutions to these problems cannot be an instant one.

On his part, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the current administration as tough men working to get Nigerians through the prevailing difficulties.

Represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Tinubu, and the Lagos governor spoke at the 70th birthday of the Overseer of Citadel Global Community, Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos.

Akume said: “The president is aware of the hard times, but at the end of it all, there is always light. And solutions to diverse issues can never be as instant as coffee, but we are on the right track.”

The president also described Pastor Bakare as a spiritual leader and advocate for truth who had left an indelible mark, not just on those who follow his teachings, but on the nation as a whole.

“I am aware of your relentless passion for better Nigeria, a country where equal justice and good government prevails. This celebration is a testimony to a life of strength and courage, of powerful messages and fearless advocacy, deep volumes of your dedication to lifting humanity.

On another development, Sanwo-Olu said those in public office needs the public’s prayers, saying “It’s a hard times, but you see, we are also tough men, and we know that at the end of the tunnel, there will be a bright phase.”

By Dr Najeeb Maigatari

Your Excellency, I hope this letter finds you in good health. As I do not have the means through which my message could reach you, I am compelled to write this open letter to draw your attention to a menace threatening our healthcare system. That is the well-known Japa syndrome that has recently plagued our dear State.

I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and the good people of Jigawa State over the tragedy that befell the people of Majia a few weeks ago. This unforeseen event led to the loss of lives of over a hundred people and left several others with varying degrees of injuries. My heart goes out to the bereaving families of all those affected, and I pray that Allah repose the souls of the deceased and heal the injured. Amen.  

Returning to the purpose of writing this letter, Your Excellency, I would like to provide some details about how our dear state used to be. It was undoubtedly one of the states with the best healthcare systems and the highest number of practising medical doctors in Northern Nigeria. At one point, it was akin to a medical hub attracting patients and medical professionals from neighbouring states due to its subsidised healthcare, efficient service delivery, and overall welfare of health workers and patients. 

Since its creation in the early 1990s, the State has made giant strides in providing its citizens with effective and reliable healthcare services. To mention a few, various successive administrations have invested heavily in training Medical doctors and other health professionals, within and outside the country, in varying capacities to ensure effective healthcare delivery to the good people of the state. 

Similarly, Jigawa State has awarded scholarships with bond agreements to local and foreign medical students since time immemorial. It has produced medical graduates from various reputable institutions within and outside the country. In addition, it was one of the pioneer states among its peers to implement the sponsorship of medical doctors through postgraduate medical training programs to further their studies, a policy several other states would later adopt. 

Your Excellency, I can say with immense pride that our healthcare system performance score was impressive overall. It used to be one of the best in the country. The services rendered were affordable and accessible to the masses, and the welfare of patients and healthcare professionals was optimum. For instance, at some point, healthcare workers in Jigawa State were earning more than their federal counterparts. 

Unfortunately, things have now taken a turn for the worse. Our healthcare system is not only ‘underperforming’ below standard by all measures but also one of the worst in the country. We are now a shadow of our past. Jigawa State has a patient-doctor ratio of 1:35,000, far exceeding the WHO recommendation of 1:600, making it one of the states with the worst healthcare systems in Nigeria. This is indeed a troubling situation. 

Over the past few years, Jigawa State has witnessed an unprecedented mass exodus of medical doctors to other neighbouring states owing to poor welfare, overburdening workload, and inadequate health facilities in hospitals, among other factors. Regrettably, this internal Japa syndrome ravaging the state continues to overstretch our already fragile healthcare system. 

To put things into perspective, according to data obtained from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Jigawa State branch from 2013 to 2024, of the 264 doctors who reported back to the state for bonding agreements, only 40 stayed after completing their terms. This is to say that more than 220 medical doctors have left to continue their careers elsewhere because Jigawa is fast becoming a nightmare and a difficult place for medical doctors.

It is worth noting that the state produced over 500 medical doctors (both foreign and locally trained) during the same period. Still, only 214 are on the state payroll, of which only 77 are currently manning the state’s primary and secondary institutions. They are about to round up their bond agreements by the end of the year; 89 are in training as either house officers or doing national service. The state has less than ten consultants and only 12 doctors in residency training. Altogether, fewer than 100 doctors attend to a population of over 7.5 million. 

This data suggests that while the state is doing a good job at producing medical doctors (both local and foreign), its retention capacity is very poor. The State will be left with no Medical doctors in the coming years if things continue at this pace. It has to either employ doctors from neighbouring states or overwork the few that stay to death if at all there would be! Your Excellency, this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as this crisis is concerned. This menace has no end. 

As a citizen concerned about the interests of Jigawa State, I implore you to declare a state of emergency on health in Jigawa State and engage with relevant stakeholders to find a way to end this worsening Japa syndrome, which is wreaking havoc in our dear state.  

The most crucial step to addressing this issue is the urgent need for the improvement of the overall welfare of the few Medical doctors and other healthcare professionals left in the state who are already struggling with chronic fatigue due to overwhelming patient workload. This singular act will not only boost the morale of these weary Medical professionals but relieve them of their burden. Still, it will also attract others from various States to compensate for the acute shortage of Medical doctors in the state. It will also improve the effectiveness of healthcare services delivered to the people. In other words, we can go back to our glory days. 

 Various States have already employed this strategy. Your Excellency, Jigawa State can not afford to lose the doctors it invests heavily in. This could amount to a work in futility! 

In addition, the government should seriously consider domesticating the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), which will help train experts in various medical specialities in the state. This would help address the shortage of registrars and consultants in our tertiary facilities and provide an avenue for a healthy and excellent research environment in the State.

Other measures include equipping our already existing hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities and subsidising healthcare services, especially to women, young children and those suffering from such chronic debilitating conditions as sickle cell disease and chronic liver and kidney diseases. Your excellency, I believe these are some ways that could help end this menace threatening our very existence, help revitalise the State’s healthcare and improve its delivery to the citizens of Jigawa State. 

 Najeeb Maigatari is a Medical doctor. He writes from Dutse, Jigawa State, via maigatari313@gmail.com.

By Ibrahim Muhammad 

The Yobe State Government has made significant strides in revamping the education sector, demonstrating its commitment to empowering future generations.

In 2024, the government invested over N2 billion in learning materials and infrastructure development through its Universal Basic Education Board (YSUBEB).  

According to YSUBEB Executive Secretary Alhaji Isa Shettima, the substantial investment aims to enhance the quality of education in primary and secondary schools across the state. 

Learning materials were widely distributed, including essential items such as pencils, pens, exercise books, school bags, chalk, whiteboards, markers, and more.

Specifically, the YSUBEB distributed 5,600 cartons of pencils, 5,600 cartons of ballpoint pens, and 5,600 cartons of exercise books, among other materials.

Additionally, UNICEF donated 56,000 branded school bags. Infrastructure development was also a key focus area, with the YSUBEB renovating over 100 schools across the state’s three geopolitical zones.

Notable projects included the construction of new classroom blocks, administrative blocks, laboratories, libraries, and offices in various schools.

The government also built two vocational schools in each geopolitical zone. Some of the notable projects undertaken by the YSUBEB include renovating a block of two classrooms, offices, and stores in Government Secondary School, Dagona, and building a block of six classrooms with an administrative block, laboratory, library, and offices in GDJSS, Abba Ibrahim.

The YSUBEB also constructed two classroom blocks, an office, and a store in Bizi Primary School and six classroom blocks with an administrative block, a laboratory, a library, and offices in Government Day Secondary School Buraima. 

Despite these efforts, some reports have falsely claimed that the Yobe State Government has neglected the education sector, leaving schools in a ramshackle condition.

However, these claims are entirely unfounded and misleading. The facts on the ground demonstrate the government’s unprecedented commitment to providing quality education.

The N2 billion investment in learning materials and infrastructure development is a testament to this commitment. It is essential to set the record straight and dismiss these baseless reports.

The Yobe State Government has made overwhelming progress in revitalising the education sector, and this progress should not be obscured by misinformation.

The government remains dedicated to providing a conducive learning environment for its citizens and ensuring that every child has access to quality education. 

The Yobe State Government’s efforts in education are part of its broader development agenda, as outlined in the 2024 Appropriation and Finance Bills.

By Lydia Usman Maiva

Nigeria’s economic hardship has been a pressing concern for months, which leaves many wondering if the country’s leaders truly grasp the severity of the situation.

Millions of Nigerians struggle to put food on their table, while leaders indulge in luxury. This does nothing except exposing the contrast between the haves and have-nots.

The country’s economic downturn has far-reaching consequences, and it has affected education, healthcare, and overall well-being. 

Citizens are forced to make difficult choices between paying bills or accessing essential services. The soaring cost of living, coupled with dwindling purchasing power, has made everyday life daunting for many.

Families face impossible choices between basic necessities, and leaders’ opulence exacerbates this disconnect. This raises questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to alleviating suffering. 

The impact on citizens is dire, with many resorting to buying half portions of items due to high costs. The struggle to afford three square meals has become a harsh reality for numerous households.

Experts predict that Nigeria’s economy will continue to face pressures, including potential shocks from economic and environmental trends. 

To address these challenges, policymakers must consider key areas for intervention, such as tackling unemployment through targeted interventions focusing on job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurship in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.

Additionally, promoting inclusive economic growth by prioritising social safety nets, access to quality education and healthcare, and empowerment of marginalised communities is crucial. 

Strengthening security through comprehensive approaches integrating law enforcement, intelligence, community engagement, and regional cooperation to address insecurity is also essential.

The World Bank recommends policy options to reduce inflation, protect the poor and vulnerable, and support economic recovery. 

By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can work towards a more sustainable and equitable economic future. Nigerians demand empathy, accountability, and tangible solutions to address the economic downturn.

The future hangs in the balance, and leaders must rise to the challenge, demonstrating genuine concern for citizens’ welfare. Luxury enjoyed by leaders is a slap in the face to those struggling. 

In a nutshell, I urge President Tinubu, all relevant stakeholders, and our various representatives to join forces and take immediate action to alleviate the debilitating problems afflicting Nigerians. It is unacceptable that a simple three-square meal has become a rarity in many households across the country.

The time for rhetoric is over; Nigerians need tangible solutions, empathy, and accountability from their leaders.

We cannot afford to continue down this path of hardship and inequality; the future of Nigeria depends on it. 

Lydia Usman Maiva is a student in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

By Lydia Usman Maiva

The issue of out-of-school children in Nigeria, particularly in the Northeast region, has reached alarming proportions. The numbers are gargantuan, and the consequences of inaction will be dire.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world, with over 10 million children between the ages of 5 and 14 not attending school.  

The Northeast region accounts for a significant portion of this number, with states like Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa having some of the highest rates of out-of-school children.

This trend is deeply troubling, as it not only affects the future of these children but also threatens the stability and development of the region.

Poverty, conflict, and cultural barriers are some of the factors driving this phenomenon, making it fundamental to adopt a comprehensive approach to address the root causes. 

Poverty and economic hardship are some of the contributors to the problem. Many families in the Northeast struggle to make ends meet, forcing them to prioritise basic needs over education.

Meanwhile, the lingering conflict in the region has destroyed infrastructure, displaced communities, and created an environment conducive to radicalization.

The lack of access to quality education further exacerbates the issue, as inadequate facilities and unqualified teachers undermine the value of education. 

Cultural and social barriers also play an active role in keeping children out of school. In some communities, girls are discouraged from pursuing education due to societal norms and expectations.

Similarly, boys are often pressured to engage in economic activities or join extremist groups. These barriers must be addressed through community-based initiatives that promote education and awareness. 

The consequences of taking measures will be far-reaching and devastating. Out-of-school children are more likely to engage in child labour or trafficking, become radicalised or recruited by extremist groups, suffer from poverty and unemployment, lack access to healthcare and social services, and perpetuate cycles of illiteracy and ignorance.  

To curb the menace of out-of-school children, increased investment in education infrastructure and resources is crucial.

This includes building and renovating schools, providing adequate materials and equipment, and training qualified teachers. Implementation of conditional cash transfer programs can also encourage enrolment, particularly among disadvantaged families. 

Community-based initiatives are vital in promoting education and awareness. Collaboration with local leaders, religious institutions, and civil society organisations can help challenge harmful cultural norms and promote the value of education.

Furthermore, policy reforms are necessary to address cultural and social barriers, ensuring that every child has access to quality education. 

The Nigerian government has launched several initiatives aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children.

The National Education Plan, Safe Schools Initiative, Conditional Cash Transfer Program, and Education for All initiative are steps in the right direction.

However, more needs to be done to address the scale and complexity of the problem. Effective implementation and coordination among stakeholders are critical to the success of these initiatives. State and local governments must work closely with federal agencies, international organisations, and civil society groups to ensure a unified approach.

Additionally, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms should be put in place to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Ultimately, addressing the issue of out-of-school children in Nigeria’s Northeast requires a collective effort. We must prioritise education as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of national development.

By working together, we can ensure that every child in Nigeria has access to quality education and a brighter future, securing a more prosperous and stable future for our nation. 

In conclusion, the government must stand on its toes and provide a lasting solution to the problem.

The National Almajiri Commission and out-of-school children must also work round the clock in ensuring that the number has drastically reduced or eliminated.

This will require sustained commitment, coordination, and collaboration among all stakeholders.

Only then can we hope to reverse the alarming trend of out-of-school children in Nigeria’s Northeast and unlock a brighter future for generations to come.  

Lydia Usman Maiva is a student in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri

By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed an indefinite strike across states that have not implemented the 2024 Minimum Wage Act, effective December 1, 2024.

The Daily Reality gathered that the directive came after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, last Friday.

In a communique issued on Sunday, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero highlighted the union’s dissatisfaction with the delay or refusal by certain states to adopt the new minimum wage, viewing it as a violation of workers’ rights.

The strike order will apply to all state councils where the minimum wage remains unimplemented as of November 30, 2024.

The NEC communique expressed concerns over escalating inflation, economic hardships, and rising costs of living, all of which have severely impacted Nigerian workers.

It called for a comprehensive wage review and immediate intervention to ease citizens’ suffering. Additionally, the NLC emphasized the need for reforms in Nigeria’s energy and fuel sectors, including enhanced transparency in fuel pricing and reactivating domestic refineries to stabilize costs.

The communique criticized some state leaders, stating, “This betrayal by certain governors and officials disregards both legality and morality, denying workers their rightful earnings amidst worsening economic hardship.”

To ensure compliance, the NLC has set up a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee, which will launch campaigns to mobilize workers and citizens against what the union termed an assault on workers’ dignity.

By Uzair Adam 

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported another act of vandalism, this time targeting its 330kV Lokoja–Gwagwalada transmission line. 

This attack comes as Nigerians await the restoration of power following the recent sabotage of the 330kV Shiroro-Kaduna lines.

In a statement issued on Sunday by TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the company revealed that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, November 9, 2024. 

Vandals destroyed transmission towers T306, T307, and T308, disrupting power transmission along the affected route.

Efforts by TCN engineers to restore the line earlier on Saturday were unsuccessful when the line tripped. 

A subsequent inspection by TCN’s patrol team confirmed the vandalism, which included the theft of two spans of aluminium conductors. 

Although the double-circuit transmission line remains operational through line two, the company is working to replace the stolen components.

This incident is part of a worrying pattern of increasing vandalism targeting Nigeria’s power infrastructure, particularly in the Gwagwalada area. 

Previous attacks include the Gwagwalada–Kukuwaba–Apo transmission line on December 10, 2023, and the Gwagwalada–Katampe line on February 26, 2024. 

Such ongoing disruptions are severely hindering the stability and expansion of the national power grid.

TCN has once again called for cooperation from local communities and security agencies to address the rising threat of vandalism. 

The company stressed that these criminal activities undermine efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s transmission system and serve as a disservice to all citizens.

By Uzair Adam 

A review of Niger State’s budget performance report has revealed that the state government allocated N1.2 billion to celebrations and special occasions in the first nine months of 2024. 

This expenditure represents about 4% of the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), which totalled N29.2 billion from January to September.

The spending has raised concerns, particularly as the state grapples with severe developmental and security issues. 

Recently, Niger State has faced violent attacks by bandits, resulting in the deaths of ten residents and the destruction of homes. 

Additionally, widespread flooding has devastated over 300 communities, with reports indicating eleven lives lost and 245 schools damaged.

Despite these challenges, the budget shows zero allocation for capital expenditures within the Ministry of Rural Development and the Rural Water and Sanitation Agency. 

This lack of investment comes at a time when a cholera outbreak has claimed sixteen lives and left 165 others infected. 

Due to the absence of potable water, many residents have resorted to using stagnant water sources shared with livestock.

In contrast, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education received only N196 million in capital funds, while the state’s basic healthcare sector saw no allocation for critical infrastructure improvements. 

Reports indicate that 71% of households in Niger lack adequate sanitary facilities, and half the population lacks access to clean drinking water, underscoring the pressing need for investment in essential services.

Amid claims of limited resources, Niger State’s spending priorities have sparked concern. 

The state currently has 1.6 million people living in poverty and an unemployment rate of 38.8%.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Nigeria boasts one of the largest cattle populations in Africa, ranking among the top on the continent. Over 20 million cattle are primarily concentrated in the northern regions, including states such as Adamawa, Borno, Kaduna, and Kano. 

The new Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, faces a complex and tasking job in three key ways.

First, the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development has high expectations from Nigerians. The ministry oversees and develops livestock policies, manages animal health and disease, improves breeds and genetic resources, enhances farming and production systems, supports rural livelihoods, and modernises livestock marketing and trade.

From an informal perspective, expectations will focus on how the minister will transform the lives of nomadic cattle herders from uneducated and nomadic to more settled, everyday lives while also addressing the farmer-herder conflict and the notorious practices of cattle rustling, banditry, and kidnapping for ransom, which are prevalent among some cattle herders.

Mukhtar’s second challenge lies in his background; he has spent most of his career as a technocrat at NNPC. Whether he knows it or not, he will inevitably experience the bittersweet realities of politics. Once appointed as a minister, one automatically assumes a political role. Mukhtar must navigate this transition, deciding whether to embrace full-time politics or attempt to balance his technocratic expertise with his political responsibilities. 

Furthermore, few people in Adamawa know him despite his former role as Managing Director of the Kaduna Refinery, a Petrochemical Company (KPRC). As a result, many may perceive him as elitist and aloof, particularly in an inherently people-centred position.

Mukhtar’s third challenge stems from the performances of his two predecessors from Adamawa, Mohammed Musa Bello and Prof Mamman Tahir, which many Adamawa people view as less than stellar. Their tenures have left a mixed legacy, leading to scepticism about Mukhtar’s ability to bring about something new and different. 

To distinguish himself, Mukhtar must work diligently to establish his identity and a positive track record. This task is particularly crucial, as he shares several traits with both former ministers, which could lead to assumptions about his capabilities and approach. By demonstrating effective leadership and addressing the needs of the people, Mukhtar can overcome this challenge and build a reputation that sets him apart.

With an impressive CV as a technocrat and practical knowledge of livestock management, Mukhtar’s Zaidi Farm stands out as a well-integrated enterprise that applies world-class best practices in animal husbandry. Given this background, we expect him to introduce innovative approaches to livestock management by benchmarking against countries renowned for their success in this field, such as New Zealand, Australia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Brazil, Ireland, and the United States. These nations have excelled in implementing efficient and sustainable livestock practices, utilising advanced genetic research and technology to enhance productivity. However, Mukhtar’s journey will be sweet and bitter, mainlydepending on his approach to leadership, public relationships and policy implementation. By embracing collaboration and leveraging global best practices, he has the potential to make significant strides in transforming the livestock sector.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja, zaymohd@yahoo.com

By Ismail Obansa Nimah

The Israeli military killed Yahya Sinwar.  A picture of Sinwar in a military vest, with a sniper shot at his forehead, with one arm cut off and the other holding an AK-47 riffle, his body under enormous concrete from a collapsed building, circulated online.

Hamas confirmed the news of Sinwar’s death, fighting alongside his comrades for his people, his land, his home and the liberation of Palestine. Until his death, Israel had tagged Yahyah Sinwar as the most wanted man in Gaza and, by extension, the whole of Palestine. The Israeli military has been on the hunt for him for years. 

Born in Khan Younis refugee camp in 1962, after the infamous massacre and Nakbah that saw the newly formed state of Israel exile more than 750,000 Palestinians from their homes and livelihood, Yahya Sinwar spent his life as a refugee in Gaza and was quick to join the Palestinian resistance forces, after being a witness to the miserable treatments and denial of the rights and freedom of Palestinians by Israel.

He lived through the 1967 Arab-Israeli war and was a bedrock in the Hamas resistance movement founded 20 years later, in 1987. 

In 1989, he was arrested by Israel on the accusation of orchestrating the killing of two Israeli soldiers and was given four life sentences. Sinwar went on to spend 22 years under brutal conditions in an Israeli prison. He maximised his stay in prison by becoming fluent in Hebrew and acquiring various diplomas aimed at understanding the Israeli colonial entity, Jewish history and Zionism. He was subsequently released following a prisoner swap in 2011 and was elected the leader of Gaza following Hamas’s political win in the 2007 Gaza elections.

Until Ismail Haniyeh’s death, Yahyah Anwar was the de-facto ruler of Gaza and was second in command regarding Hamas after late Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh. Following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in August of this year, he became the ultimate leader of Hamas and has, since October 2023, led a principled and steadfast fight against Israel in its war in Gaza.

In the last year, the Israeli government has manufactured countless falsehoods and made widespread propaganda about its war on Gaza, Hamas and the leadership of Hamas, particularly Yahyah Sinwar. Israel, through numerous outlets, claimed that Sinwar was hiding in tunnels, surrounding himself with wealth and using hostages and Palestinian civilians as human shields. And even though these claims have been debunked countless times, the Israeli military became the ultimate belier of itself when it released a droned footage of Sinwar’s last moments. 

The intent behind the footage release was to mock Sinwar and the entire Palestinian resistance, but the footage did the opposite. Instead, it propelled Sinwar to become a legendary figure. It showed Sinwar, sitting honourably on a couch, putting on a keffiyeh, debris around with his comrades down; after being fired on by a tank, a missile and sniped on the forehead, he used his remaining arm, in one last act of defiance to throw a stick at the filming drone. He was side by side with his comrades on the front lines, defending his lands and fighting for the liberation of Palestine and every Palestinian.

Sinwar’s entire life has been an inspiration and a huge source of strength for the resistance axis against the apartheid state of Israel. His story bears many sacrifices and losses for the Palestinian front. He was born a refugee and brutally raised as a refugee in his land amidst an unwavering magnitude of oppression and apartheid. 

Regardless of what the U.S.-led West and Israel wanted the world to believe about Sinwar, he died a hero, one that his greatest adversary inadvertently publicised. Even in his death, he continued to inspire the many more Sinwars who would ultimately rise in his place.

Ismail Obansa Nimah wrote via nimah013@gmail.com.