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By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Hundreds of staff members at major U.S.-funded media outlets, including Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe, were informed over the weekend that they would be barred from their offices and required to surrender press passes and equipment.

The move follows an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, which designated the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), VOA’s parent agency, as part of “unnecessary” federal bureaucracy.

USAGM, which employs approximately 3,500 people and has a budget of 886 million U.S. dollars for 2024, oversees several international broadcasters that are now facing significant cuts.

These include the shutdown of contracts with Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia, as reported by local media outlets.

VOA Director Michael Abramowitz confirmed on social media that nearly the entire staff of 1,300 journalists, producers, and assistants had been placed on administrative leave.

The White House has stated that the move is aimed at ensuring taxpayers are no longer funding what they described as “radical propaganda.”

The decision is expected to face challenges in Congress, as the U.S. Constitution grants lawmakers, not the president, control over federal spending.

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

Maternal mortality, the death of a woman during pregnancy or childbirth, remains a cruel and devastating reality. Despite advancements in medicine, millions of women, especially in low- and middle-income countries, face preventable deaths due to systemic failures and societal neglect.

Why Mothers Die

Several factors contribute to maternal mortality, often worsened by inadequate healthcare infrastructure and socio-economic challenges:

1. Severe Bleeding: Postpartum hemorrhage is the leading cause, especially in areas without skilled birth attendants.

2. Infections: Poor hygiene and lack of proper care lead to life-threatening infections after childbirth.

3. Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia: High blood pressure during pregnancy causes fatal complications when untreated.

4. Unsafe Abortions: A significant number of deaths stem from unregulated and unsafe abortion practices.

5. Underlying Health Issues: Chronic conditions like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and anemia exacerbate pregnancy risks.

In rural areas, the situation is even grimmer. Women often avoid hospitals due to cultural taboos, ignorance, or financial constraints. Many endure days of labor at home, resorting to harmful traditional concoctions instead of seeking professional care. Poor infrastructure and untrained healthcare providers further complicate the situation, leaving mothers vulnerable to preventable deaths.

When it comes to Post-natal care, there isn’t any attention given to the mother after birth on what she eats and how she feels. Mostly, women undergo pain and tear of different degrees and suffer in pain.

Most women suffering from Eclampsia that are brought to the hospital who don’t go for antenatal care, health officials won’t know exactly what is wrong with them, so if she’s having headache, they either prescribe bordrex or sudrex in a chemist for you to take, if its malaria, they haven’t run any tests on you too confirm, they’ll prescribe paracetamol for you to take. Before you know it, she doesn’t have any blood in her body. Lastly, she’ll be rushed to the hospital breathing heavily, and before you get donors to supply blood to her, it might be too late.

People tend to give birth without control, good health, or good food to eat, which also makes the uterus suffer a lot.

The Four Deadly Delays

Maternal mortality is worsened by four critical delays that often seal a woman’s fate:

1. Delay in Seeking Care: Cultural beliefs, ignorance, and financial struggles hinder timely decisions to seek help.2. Delay in Reaching a Facility: Poor roads, lack of transportation, and distance to hospitals mean many women never make it in time.

3. Delay in Receiving Care: Bureaucratic processes, understaffed hospitals, and unskilled personnel result in deadly delays once women reach healthcare facilities.

4. Delay in Referral: When facilities cannot handle emergencies, referral systems are often inefficient, leading to further loss of life.

Ripple Effects of Maternal Death

The death of a mother devastates families and communities. Children without mothers face a higher risk of malnutrition, poor education, and even death. Economically, families are burdened by healthcare costs and the loss of a primary caregiver.

A Call to Action

Addressing maternal mortality requires collective effort:

1. Healthcare Access: Build well-equipped facilities in rural areas and train more skilled birth attendants.

2. Education: Empower communities with knowledge about maternal health and safe childbirth practices.

3. Family Planning: Provide accessible contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancies and reduce unsafe abortions.

4. Government Intervention: Strengthen healthcare systems, remove financial barriers, and implement maternal health policies.

Last Line

Maternal mortality is more than a health statistic; it is a tragic indictment of societal failure. No woman should die giving life. Tackling the root causes, improving healthcare systems, and fostering awareness can save countless lives. The time to act is now—because every mother matters.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 34,470 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along border routes in Adamawa and Taraba states.

Acting on intelligence, operatives confiscated 1,149 jerrycans of PMS, along with a specially modified transport vehicle worth ₦4 million.

The total duty-paid value of the seized items stands at ₦37.78 million.During a press briefing in Jalingo, Taraba State, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, described the operation as a necessary response to the increasing complexity of transnational smuggling activities.

He stated, “Our intelligence-led operations have revealed that this corridor is a strategic transit point for cross-border petroleum diversion.

“The economic implications extend beyond revenue losses; it disrupts supply chains, fuels artificial scarcity, and undermines regional security.”

The Customs chief also warned against internal collusion, saying, “We have intelligence that some officers and members of border communities are aiding smugglers. We will dig deeper into this and ensure that those involved face the full wrath of the law.”

Reaffirming the agency’s determination to curb smuggling, the Comptroller of Customs for the Adamawa/Taraba Command, Garba Bashir, highlighted the dangers of illicit trade.

“Smuggling weakens legitimate trade, encourages revenue loss, increases crime, and endangers our citizens. The operatives of Operation Whirlwind, under the leadership of the Comptroller General, have intensified efforts to dismantle these smuggling networks,” he stated.

The Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussaini Ejibunu, emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-driven enforcement, noting that the seizures were completed in just three hours.

“This is an intelligence-based operation, not one conducted at fixed checkpoints. The results you see today confirm that Taraba is being used as a conduit for smuggling,” he explained.

He urged residents to support the anti-smuggling campaign, adding, “There is no hiding place for criminals. Anyone caught will be prosecuted. We urge the public: if you see something, say something.”

To address the impact of smuggling-related fuel shortages, the Comptroller General of Customs has ordered that the confiscated petroleum products be sold to the public at a subsidized rate.

By Uzair Adam 

The Katsina State Government has confirmed that the winner of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, Abdulsalam Rabiu-Faskari, along with his father and brother, remains in the custody of their abductors.  

In a statement issued on Friday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu-Zango, clarified that contrary to some media reports, the victims were still alive.  

Rabiu-Faskari, an ABU final-year medical student, was kidnapped alongside his father and brother two days ago while returning to Faskari from Katsina, shortly after being honored by Governor Dikko Radda for his outstanding performance in the competition held in Kebbi.  

The commissioner noted that Rabiu-Faskari was set to represent Nigeria at the upcoming international edition of the competition.  

“The government has been made aware of reports suggesting that the young scholar was killed by his abductors. However, the latest information reaching us confirms that he and his family members are alive and in captivity,” Salisu-Zango stated.  

He further revealed that the kidnappers were demanding N30 million for their release.  

Governor Radda condemned the abduction, describing it as unfortunate and assuring that efforts were underway to secure the victims’ safe return.  

“My heart is with the victims, their family, relatives, and friends. We pray for their safe release. The government is taking concrete steps to ensure their rescue,” Radda said.  

He urged security agencies to intensify efforts in tracking down the kidnappers while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to addressing the security challenges in the state.  

The governor also called on the public to offer prayers for the safety of Rabiu-Faskari and other abductees.

By Muhsin Ibrahim

World leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, took to social media on Friday to mark the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, calling for unity and action against discrimination.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Guterres emphasized the need to address rising anti-Muslim hate worldwide. “Islamophobia is an affront to human rights and the values of the UN. We must stand together to promote tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect,” he wrote.

Several heads of state and government officials echoed similar sentiments. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed his country’s commitment to fighting religious discrimination, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called for global solidarity against Islamophobia.

The International Day to Combat Islamophobia was designated by the UN in 2022 and is observed annually on March 15. It aims to raise awareness of prejudice against Muslims and promote inclusive societies.

Advocacy groups have urged governments to go beyond statements and implement concrete policies to tackle hate crimes and discrimination against Muslims.

By Uzair Adam 

Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has approved the creation of new units within its Public Affairs Directorate and appointed Nura Garba as the Head of the Digital Media Unit. 

The decision, endorsed by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, is part of efforts to enhance the university’s communication strategies and digital engagement.  

Nura Garba, formerly of the Information and Publication Unit, will lead the newly established Digital Media Unit, which will focus on utilizing digital platforms to promote BUK’s brand.

The unit will also engage with online audiences and provide timely updates on university activities.  

In a similar development, Muhammad Salisu Rabiu, previously with the Protocol Unit, has been appointed as the Head of the Publicity and Outreach Unit. 

His role will involve promoting the university’s achievements, programs, and services to various stakeholders, including the media and alumni.  

The appointments were confirmed in letters dated March 12, 2025, signed by the Registrar, Dr. Haruna Aliyu, and have taken immediate effect.

By Abubakar Aminu Ibrahim

Recently, I have been reflecting on public behaviour as I witness it in our local environments—schools, seminars, workshops, and similar gatherings. There is a stark contrast between what I observe here and what I see while watching lectures and discussions in the US, Europe, and other developed regions. The difference is striking, and unfortunately, it does not favour us.

Consider, for example, the simple yet profound act of listening and paying attention. I recently watched a Harvard professor facilitating a mature and highly engaging debate among his students on affirmative action and legacy admissions. What struck me was not only the relevance and depth of the topic but also the respect, composure, and attentiveness of the participants. Each speaker was heard without unnecessary interruption, and ideas were exchanged with mutual understanding—something that even the Nigerian Senate struggles to master.

Now, think about similar gatherings in Nigeria. It’s almost inevitable to hear teachers, speakers, or MCs repeatedly pleading, “Please be quiet!” during lessons or formal sessions. But why is it so hard for us to stay silent? Part of the problem is that many people do not realize that their individual choices matter.

People assume, “My little noise won’t make a difference; others are listening anyway.” But that is precisely the issue. The collective “little noise” from multiple individuals merges into a loud, distracting hum in the hall. If every person makes a conscious decision to remain silent and focused, the entire atmosphere will change. Ironically, those who think they are too insignificant to make an impact often do—but in a negative way. As the saying goes, if you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito!

Listening is not just about remaining silent—it is an act of respect and engagement. Your noise doesn’t just disturb serious-minded people around you; it also impacts the speaker’s performance. Non-verbal cues—such as the facial expressions of the audience—are vital to a speaker. A presentation can be either enhanced or ruined by the listeners’ posture, attention, and responsiveness. The energy a speaker receives from the audience directly affects the effectiveness of the session.

Your attention speaks volumes about you. Have you ever noticed how some people form friendships at events without even speaking to one another during the session? Yet, they find themselves drawn together by the positive energy they radiate through their attentiveness. I personally experienced this—I once met a remarkable individual whose rapt attention during a session caught my eye. After the event, I approached him, only to discover that he had also noticed the same attentiveness in me. That silent connection laid the foundation for a lasting friendship. We did not interrupt the session, nor did we disturb others, yet we gained something invaluable.

As a student, recognize that your attention is your most valuable asset. You get the most from your teacher not only by attending class but also by actively listening and fostering an environment where learning can flourish. The saying “attention is not free; it is paid” rings true—you must pay attention to acquire knowledge.

Likewise, as an audience member at any formal gathering, remember that your main purpose is to learn. Learning occurs only when you truly listen. Let us develop the discipline of attentiveness, as it is not only a sign of respect but also a characteristic of highly successful individuals. Public conduct is important, and in this instance, it starts with silence and a receptive ear.

Abubakar wrote from Katsina via abubakarmuhammadaminu21@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Air Force has said that, operatives in Katsina State have destroyed notorious criminal hideouts in Unguwar Goga Hillforest, Ruwan Godiya Ward, the Faskari Local Government Area of the state.

The operation, done by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma in the early hours of Thursday, centered on cracking down the fortified camps of two notorious bandit kingpins, Gero (Alhaji) and Alhaji Riga.

In astatement on Friday night by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, said the airstrikes successfully neutralised over 20 bandits, with additional casualties reported in the surrounding rocky hills.

The statement in part read, “The Nigerian Air Force has delivered a devastating blow to banditry in Katsina State, as the Air Component of Area.

“The airstrikes, which preceded careful and actionable intelligence advancing purposeful lethality, destroyed the fortified camps of notorious bandit kingpins, Gero (Alhaji) and Alhaji Riga, neutralising over 20 criminals, with additional casualties reported in the surrounding rocky hills.

“The action by the operatives had a decisive impact on the criminals, assessment of the full extent of the damage is ongoing.”

Ali said Riga and Gero were key perpetrators of banditry in the region, providing shelter and all household items for terrorist elements responsible for deadly ambushes along the Funtua-Gusau Road, particularly between Yankara and Sheme villages.

He added that their elimination is seen as a major victory in the ongoing military battles to restore peace in the North-West region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Kaduna State Police Command has responded to allegations made by former Governor Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, who claimed that his former Commissioner, Malam Jafaru Sani, was abducted by a group of kidnappers he referred to as the “Uba Sani Group,” allegedly connected to the police.

The police dismissed the claim, emphasizing that there is no such group within the Nigerian Police Force.

According to the police, the Nigerian Police Force was established under the 1999 Constitution, with the primary responsibility of maintaining law and order.

They further urged the former governor to verify the truth of any allegations before making public statements.In a press release issued by the police spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, he stated:

“We have taken note of a statement made by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, on his X platform, where he accused his former Commissioner, Malam Jafaru Sani, of being abducted by a group of kidnappers known as the ‘Uba Sani Group,’ whom he claimed to be police officers.”El-Rufai also alleged that Jafaru Sani was detained in prison without any police report (FIR) or charges filed by the state Ministry of Justice.

“There is no such group of kidnappers within the Nigerian Police Force. The police is a lawful body established by the constitution to uphold law and order.”

The police further explained that they are authorized to arrest and investigate anyone accused of committing a crime under the provisions of the law.

They noted that any individual, company, or government body has the right to file a complaint with the police, and if a crime is committed, the matter will be taken to court for trial.

The police urged the public, especially those in positions of authority, to exercise caution and avoid making baseless accusations against security agencies.

They warned that such unfounded claims could create confusion and undermine the integrity of security institutions.

By Bello Sagir Imam                                           

In 2005, Prof. Auwal Yadudu of the Faculty of Law, Bayero University Kano, had to speak to a bench of Kano state Sharia courts judges at Aminu Kano College of Islamic and Legal Studies (AKCILS), where I was studying Law at Diploma level. I was even nicknamed as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) by my colleagues. The college management invited me to represent students as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Redemption Chambers, an association I co-founded at the AKCILS.

The legal luminary started his speech by addressing the judges in English, smiling. After about six minutes, I noticed him slowing down, and he completely paused. While silence overtook the venue, making it a graveyard, the lawyer examined the hall, making eye contact with some of us as if searching for something in our eyes. Then he returned to his speech with full force but this time with a bit of speed. We were all shocked to have discovered that Prof. switched to speaking in the Hausa language instead of the English language he was using earlier, which I enjoyed because of his near-native speakers’ control of the language I sensed in it.

Prof. Yadudu spoke for a while in Hausa, as if trying to do what he knew best: “defense”. He then paused and quickly said: “na tsara jawabi na gabaki dayansa a harshen Turanci, amma, tun kafin na yi nisa, sai na fahimci cewa, kaso mai tsoka daga cikinku ba sa fahimtar abin da nake fada yadda ya kamata, saboda da harshen Turanci nake magana, shi ya sa na yi sauri na koma yin magana da harshen Hausa.”

He mentioned his full name as “Barrack HUSSAIN Obama.” The former US president deliberately added the middle name (i.e., Hussain), a Muslim name, in his address to Turkish Muslims that he came from a Muslim background. This is unusual; Obama does primarily address Americans or other non-Muslim audiences.

Malam Aminu Kano, in his time, was hated by many Kano elites, including monarchs, politicians, and clerics. Why? Because he opted to always please the masses (talakawa), to the detriment of the elites, in his speeches. Why? Perhaps the masses cast votes en mass, while the elite, who were much fewer, hardly voted, and the Malam, a politician, needed votes.

The three stories above demonstrate the power of knowing your audience as a speaker for an effective speech.

Eugene Ehlich & Gene R. Hawes have recommended finding the answers to the following questions for any speaker who wishes to speak effectively to the audience. For instance:

What is the:

1. Age
2. Gender
3. Educational status
4. Religious inclination (including sectorial affiliation)
5. Social status
6. Their knowledge of you (the speaker)
7. Their familiarity with your subject matter
8. Race
9. Peculiarity
10. Career of the audience.

A series of phone calls ensued between me, the secretary, and the Chairman of Elite Coven of the Faculty of Law, Bayero University, Kano, last month, shortly after I accepted their invitation to train them in public speaking. That was in my effort to find answers to some of the questions above. For instance, number 2,3,7 etc. The aspiring lawyers furnished me with all the answers, accordingly.

One of my public speaking students asked me what she should do if, despite her effort to know her audience, she couldn’t succeed. My response was: “Don’t speak to them. Simple!”

In conclusion, “Unexpected Voices: 10 Years of Speaking for the World” is this year’s World Speech Day (WSD) theme, marking the 10th anniversary. All the voices that shaped the world, Like Malala’s, King’s, and Danfodio’s, that WSD aimed to celebrate and promote would not have been heard if the people behind them were oblivious of who their audiences were. The fate of future voices is going to be bleak, except if the knowledge of the audience is understood.

Bello Sagir Imam is a Public Speaking Coach at Domain Leadership Academy, Zoo Road, Kano. He can be contacted via belsagim@yahoo.com.