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Electricity is slowly becoming history in the North, over a week without a flash of light. Nothing has ever been taken seriously by our northern politicians. They only prioritize politics over the needs of people.

Some believe that electricity is just for lighting our homes and charging our phones, but it goes far beyond that.

Prices for water and other materials needed for electricity generation have skyrocketed in these eight days without power, and they will likely remain high even after electricity is restored.

During this financial crisis, the lack of electricity has severely impacted many small business owners who rely on nighttime hours to support their families.

Additionally, power outages put people’s property at risk, leading to security challenges. Our brothers and sisters in hospitals are also struggling.

If you hear someone in the North complaining, it often affects them personally or someone close to them.

We tend to care only about ourselves and our families, with only a few among us showing generosity.

We are always praying for a better Nigeria but change begins with yourself and myself.

Coming to Europe—legally or otherwise—is not easy. Countries, including Germany, have tightened their immigration policies and continue to do so.

Of course, several European countries have a shortage of highly skilled workers. However, they follow due, often bureaucratic, processes to hire those workers.

I don’t know how to hire or influence anybody or any institution to hire anyone. If I knew, my immediate family and close friends would be the first I would bring here, not “random” social media contacts.

I appeal to some people who contact me via DM about job and scholarship opportunities in Germany. I share such openings here and, especially, on LinkedIn. Try your luck and pray. Muhsin may not be able to help you in the way you think.

Everything is available on the Internet. Explore sites and YouTube. But don’t fall for scammers. Your employers will not ask you for money; instead, they will pay you. Scholarships are not for sale. Your qualifications and competence will earn you one.

May the Almighty God make it easy for everyone, amin. May you secure your dream job or scholarship sooner than you anticipate, amin.

Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim teaches at the University of Cologne in Germany and he can be reached via muhsin2008@gmail.com.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has teamed up with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to host a workshop on “Gender Diversity” at the Old Federal Secretariat in Garki, Abuja.

The event, which began on Monday, October 28, 2024, reaffirms Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s commitment to creating a work environment where every officer thrives, regardless of gender. 

Chief Superintendent of Customs Zara Musa, representing Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan, emphasized the workshop’s importance in fostering a workplace with equal opportunities for growth and success.

“This workshop will pave the way for officers to contribute fully to the Service’s success, regardless of gender. CGC Adeniyi remains committed to nurturing a gender-inclusive environment within the NCS,” Musa stated. 

This initiative follows a previous capacity-building session in April 2024 on gender inclusivity, demonstrating CGC Adeniyi’s efforts to advance gender equality across the Service.

“These initiatives form a series of efforts under CGC Adeniyi’s tenure aimed at advancing gender equality across the Service, promoting a culture where diverse perspectives contribute to enhanced Customs operations,” the National Contact Point added. 

Jennifer Goistene Burs from the WCO highlighted the strategic impact of gender inclusivity on service delivery.

“We are committed to supporting the Nigeria Customs Service in finalizing the draft action plan on Gender Equality and Diversity, which was developed following the sub-regional workshop organized in April,” she said.

Experts Sendra Chihaka from Zimbabwe and Johanna Tornstrom also shared insights on fostering a supportive workplace culture. 

The WCO has been actively promoting gender equality and diversity in customs administrations globally, providing tools and resources to support its members.

This collaborative effort between the NCS and WCO aims to strengthen inclusivity and empower officers to contribute to the Service’s success.

By Anwar Usman 

The Kano State Police Command on Tuesday arresty a notorious kingpin identified as Inuwa Zakari, also known as “Gundura,” together with 14 others. 

SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Command’s spokesperson, confirmed the arrest through a press statement released to journalists in Kano. 

Gundura, aged 24, who was wanted for terrorising the metropolis, was also identified as the assaulter who attacked a Vigilance Group Commander, which caused life-threatening injuries and damaging a police vehicle. 

The arrests were made during clearance operations conducted between 25 and 27 October 2024, following directives from the State Commissioner of Police, Salman Dogo Garba, to launch aggressive action against thuggery. 

The police sent a clear and strong warning that such violent activities would not be tolerated. 

The assailants are currently under investigation at the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department and, upon completion, will be charged in court to face the full wrath of the law. 

The Commissioner of Police expressed appreciation for the public’s continued support and cooperation.

He stated, “This isn’t the first time the Kano State Police Command has taken a serious action against criminal activity.”

By Uzair Adam 

The Imo State Police Command has detained a 17-year-old undergraduate, Jesse Chidiebere, from Imo State University (IMSU), for allegedly faking her own kidnapping and death. 

ASP Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer, released a statement in Owerri confirming the incident.

According to Okoye, the staged abduction caused severe distress to Chidiebere’s family and the university community. 

The incident unfolded on the night of October 26 when a message from Chidiebere’s WhatsApp account claimed she had been abducted and killed, directing her family to confirm the news at the Orji Police Station.

Acting on a distress call from concerned citizens, police launched an investigation, only to discover the following morning that Chidiebere was safe and that the incident was a social media prank. 

The police spokesperson noted that an investigation is ongoing to determine her motives, and Chidiebere will face prosecution. 

Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma expressed disappointment over the “irresponsible behaviour,” noting that the incident wasted valuable resources and caused unnecessary public panic. 

He advised parents to caution their children against dangerous pranks and the spread of misinformation.

“The command is dedicated to tackling misinformation and maintaining public safety throughout the state,” Danjuma emphasized.

By Anwar Usman

A meeting between the Northern Governors Forum and Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently underway in Kaduna. The two groups hope to tackle the region’s pressing security and developmental challenges.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, was in attendance at the meeting, which took place at the state government House.

While welcoming his colleagues, Muhammadu Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, called for collective action to tackle the challenges bedevilling the region.

The region is battling insecurity, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and youth restiveness.

Yahaya reiterated the need for collective action. He said, “Our collective resolve is being tested by the ongoing challenges that we face. However, our unity and commitment to the prosperity of the people remain our greatest source of strength that will enable us to overcome those challenges.”

The governor also acknowledged these challenges. He said, “Terrorism, banditry, kidnap-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, drug abuse, the menace of Almajiri and out-of-school children, poverty, and unemployment. We must continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.”

The governors proposed various ways to tackle these challenges, including “sustaining gains against criminals, studying and implementing the Coalition of Northern Group’s Security Committee report, and engaging with security agencies and civil society groups.

“Investing in education, skills development, and job creation; supporting small and medium enterprises; attracting investment to northern states; providing support to farmers, ensuring rural security, and promoting agro-allied industries.

“Partnering with the Federal Government and stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable practices.”

In his remarks earlier, Kaduna Governor and chief host, Senator Uba Sani, welcomed his colleagues and traditional rulers in the region and the Chief of Defence, General Christopher Musa, emphasising unity and collective action against regional challenges.

Sani also acknowledged the northern Governors’ commitment to peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity, urging, “We must work together to realize our vision of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous North.”

The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to combat insecurity, citing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and Operation Fansan Yamma as clear demonstrations of the Federal Government’s commitment.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced that repairs to the damaged transmission line causing the blackout in northern Nigeria will be completed by Sunday, November 3, 2024.

Alternative measures are in place to transmit 400 megawatts to affected areas within the next 24 hours.

According to TCN Managing Director Sule Abdulaziz, the company has deployed engineers to restore power and will distribute 500-600 megawatts to the northern region by Sunday.

“Restoring one of these lines will allow TCN to wheel about 400MW of power through that corridor,” Abdulaziz stated.

The blackout, reported on October 22, affected the north-east, north-west, and parts of north-central Nigeria due to vandalism and technical issues.

President Bola Tinubu directed TCN to expedite repairs, with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu providing security support.

TCN noted that insecurity delayed repairs, but engineers are working tirelessly to restore bulk power supply.

The company aims to transmit at least 500-600 megawatts to the northern region once repairs are completed.

This development comes amid reports that Nigeria supplies 24-hour electricity to neighbouring countries, including Togo and Benin.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has issued an executive order, effective October 24, 2024, prohibiting the unauthorized allocation of land under the guise of “corner shops” or “curve-outs” across the state.

The order restricts all state and local agencies, including the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, REMASAB, and the Ministry of Agriculture, from approving any structures or land use permits in this context.

Governor Yusuf, invoking his authority under the Nigerian Constitution and the Land Use Act, specified that only the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning is authorized to process and approve land occupancy permits.

This executive directive extends to market stalls, shops, and other business interests within designated urban areas, ensuring that any changes comply with the existing land use regulations in the state.

The order further restricts the conversion, sale, or transfer of any state-vested properties without explicit prior approval from the governor.

The ancient Kano City walls, grazing reserves, and cattle routes are also protected under this mandate, prohibiting any land allocations or occupancy permits on these historical and essential sites.

To ensure enforcement, the governor has tasked the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rmingado, with monitoring compliance and curbing violations.

The governor emphasized that the order addresses growing public concerns over unauthorized land allocations within school and hospital premises, as well as other public utilities.

Governor Yusuf highlighted the state’s commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure from encroachment, particularly where public buildings are used for private business under questionable approvals.

Key officials, including the deputy governor, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Chief of Staff, and the Anti-Corruption Commission chairman, attended the signing of the executive order.

The new measures are aimed at preserving public land for its intended use and ensuring that public institutions uphold their responsibilities in managing state assets.

By Uzair Adam

The strike initiated by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of university non-teaching staff unions has shown little effect on Bayero University, Kano (BUK), where daily activities continue as usual, and essential facilities remain accessible.

The Daily Reality observed that locations expected to be affected by the strike, such as the university’s main library and hospital, were fully operational.

Students were actively studying in the library, while the hospital staff continued to provide medical care.

University staff activities were also observed at the Student Affairs Office, suggesting minimal disruption from the strike.

The JAC, which includes the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), had issued a circular on Sunday instructing members to begin an indefinite strike.

The circular, signed by NASU’s General Secretary Mr. Peters Adeyemi and SSANU’s President Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim, cited four months of unpaid salaries as the reason for the action.

The announcement raised concerns that the strike could significantly affect university operations, with some anticipating solidarity actions from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

However, campus activities continue, and some students have even been able to sit for exams as scheduled.

Malam Nura Garba, SSANU’s Secretary, explained that the strike impacts only NASU and SSANU members, affecting administrative, hospital, and library operations. Nevertheless, these services remain accessible.

NASU Chairman Abdullahi Nasiru clarified that the delay in shutting down facilities stemmed from a late directive issued on Sunday.

“We are holding a meeting today, and the facilities currently open will soon be shut down,” he said.

Nasiru emphasized that while the strike is intended to be “total, comprehensive, and indefinite,” the union needed official clearance from the national headquarters before proceeding.

Students who spoke with our reporter confirmed they encountered no issues accessing the hospital and library facilities, despite the ongoing strike.

By Timothy Agberagba 

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have gained prominence in Nigeria, bringing benefits and potential side effects to Nigerian students and the general public in particular. 

AI chatbots are computer programs or interfaces that can carry on human-like conversations using natural language understanding (NLU), natural language processing (NLP), and machine learning (ML). 

Those programs are designed to help with academics, business, data analysis, and entertainment. To use them, you instruct the chatbot to provide a solution to a particular problem, and it will automatically generate the result. 

Many Nigerian students have embraced AI as a resource for academic exercises. Some use it for research, presentation, and literary compositions. Lecturers also use it to generate lecture materials without the stress of surfing the internet. Information can be easily accessed through AI Chatbots.

However, this trend has become a matter of concern as many Nigerian students and graduates heavily depend on these AI chatbots rather than engage in critical reasoning and rationality. AI Chatbots have made many people so lazy and dependent that they cannot conduct joint research on issues around them. 

Many fail to understand that AI chatbots collect information randomly from published materials and present it as facts. This is why people, mainly Nigerian students, should always engage in personal research rather than depend on AI.

With the emergence of AI Chatbots, it is also disturbing that many Nigerian youths cannot compose a simple essay without using AI chatbots anymore—a 2024 research by Prof. Oluebube Miracle on the effect of AI chatbots in Nigeria revealed that “many students boycott knowledge construction process, leading to a dearth of experience, irrationality, passive learning, groupthink, academic dishonesty, and a diminished propensity for critical thinking”. This negates the future of academics and knowledge transfer because future generations will depend on it, and creativity and brain work will die naturally. 

Additionally, in a developing country like Nigeria, people need to engage in creative thinking and innovation rather than allow AI to think for them. The secret behind developed countries is the constant brainstorming of creative ideas that translate into innovative undertakings. This is exactly what Nigeria needs. 

It is said that youths are leaders of tomorrow, but if they heavily depend on AI chatbots for ideas, what will happen to the country? AI can only give you what you ask for and nothing more. It doesn’t feel or think and is not sensitive to the environment. By implication, dependence on AI is a sign of gross failure as far as creativity is concerned.

Finally, to mitigate the tendency to over-depend on AI Chatbots and promote creativity among Nigerian youths, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders need to work collaboratively to ensure that the integration of AI in education promotes independence and critical thinking. Nigerian youths should not abandon traditional study methods to enrich themselves with the knowledge necessary for self-development and national progress. 

Timothy Agberagba writes from the Mass Communication Department at Bayero University, Kano.