Education

By Ahmed Abdulkadir

This post is meant to advise or guide young social media enthusiasts on how to go about becoming journalists. It’s obvious that these days young chaps who have access to smart phones and data have become overnight journalists without a clue on how to go about it.

It’s a pleasure to talk about the exciting and impactful journey of becoming a journalist in Nigeria. As young social media enthusiasts interested in journalism, you have already taken the first step towards an incredibly rewarding and influential career. Nigeria, with its rich history and diverse cultural landscape, provides a unique and dynamic environment for aspiring journalists.

Today, I want to share with you some key insights and steps that can help you as you navigate the path to becoming a journalist in this wonderful country.

First and foremost, let me take you through my personal journey of how I stumbled upon journalism. Believe it or not, I did not set out to become a journalist. In fact, I had no clue what journalism entailed. I began my professional life as a teacher, specifically an English Language and Literature teacher in a secondary school.

However, my background in English language studies inadvertently propelled me towards this noble profession. Moreover, I had a deep passion for writing. Ultimately, that is the crux of the matter – having an unwavering passion for the profession.

Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that you have to study English or journalism to become a journalist. You can pursue this career regardless of your field of study. English, journalism, mass communication, or related courses merely serve as guiding principles towards realizing your dream. I know numerous outstanding journalists in Nigeria who did not pursue any of the aforementioned courses, yet they excelled in their journalistic endeavours.

Take, for instance, the former Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, who initially studied accounting but later became an exceptional journalist. Another example is Dr. Mansur Liman, the former Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, who studied Chemistry up to the Ph.D. level but embarked on a successful career as an international journalist, starting at the BBC in London. Come to think of it, Abdalla Uba Adamu, a professor of science education at Bayero University, Kano, made a career switch to media studies and became a Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, thus becoming the first dual professor in Nigeria! There are countless such examples.

The examples mentioned above demonstrate Farooq Kperogi’s assertion that “anyone can be a journalist even if they didn’t formally study journalism or mass communication.” Kperogi, a Professor of Journalism and Emerging Media at Kennesaw State University in the USA, discussed the definition of a journalist and the nature of journalism in an article titled “What Critics of Rufai Oseni Don’t Know About Journalism,” which was published in the Nigerian Tribune newspaper on November 4, 2023. In the article, he defended Rufai Oseni, a well-known Arise TV anchor who faced criticism for practicing journalism without a background in journalism or mass communication.

So, when I grew tired of teaching and found myself searching for any kind of job, destiny smiled upon me when I was fortunate enough to be employed at Katsina State Television (KTTV). That was where I cut my teeth in journalism. And eventually, I climbed the ladder to become the General Manager of the station, twenty years ago, reaching the pinnacle of my journalistic career. Having achieved that feat, I transitioned into the regulatory aspect of journalism by joining the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in Abuja. The NBC, a federal government organization, oversees the work of the broadcast media, especially radio and television. There, too, I reached the pinnacle and retired as a Director!

To take you through the steps that can help you as you navigate the path to becoming a journalist, first and foremost, embrace the power of storytelling and the impact it has on shaping public opinion and discourse. Journalism is not just about reporting facts; it’s about capturing the essence of a story, uncovering hidden truths, and giving a voice to those who may not have one. As you develop your skills as a journalist, remember that your mission is to inform, educate, and inspire your audience through the compelling stories you tell. Let your passion for storytelling be the driving force behind your pursuit of a career in journalism.

In Nigeria, as in many other countries, the field of journalism is constantly evolving due to rapid advancements in technology and changes in the media landscape. As aspiring journalists, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, tools, and platforms that are shaping the industry. Embrace new technologies, social media, and digital storytelling techniques to enhance your journalistic skills and reach a wider audience. The ability to adapt and evolve with the changing media landscape is key to success in the field of journalism.

Furthermore, seek out opportunities to gain practical experience and expand your network within the journalism community. Being on the social media platform is a great start, as it allows you to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share your passion for journalism. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, and workshops that can provide hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned journalists. Building strong relationships within the journalism community can open doors to new opportunities and help you gain valuable insights and guidance as you progress in your career.

In addition to honing your skills and building relationships, it’s essential to cultivate a deep understanding of the ethical considerations and responsibilities that come with being a journalist. In a country as diverse as Nigeria, where complex social and political issues abound, it’s crucial for journalists to uphold high ethical standards, maintain objectivity, and strive for accurate and balanced reporting. As aspiring journalists, you have the power to influence public opinion and shape narratives, so use that power responsibly and with integrity.

As you embark on this journey, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that may come your way. Journalism can be a demanding and often unpredictable career, requiring resilience, determination, and the ability to work under pressure. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning, and always stay true to your passion for storytelling and the pursuit of truth. Remember, adversity can often be the catalyst for your greatest achievements.

Lastly, never underestimate the impact you can have as a journalist in Nigeria. Your work has the potential to spark important conversations, hold those in power accountable, and bring about positive change in your communities and beyond. Whether you choose to focus on investigative reporting, human interest stories, or political journalism, your contribution to the media landscape can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

In conclusion, the journey to becoming a journalist in Nigeria is a noble and rewarding pursuit. It’s a journey filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive impact through the stories you tell. Embrace the power of storytelling, stay adaptable and open to change, seek out practical experience and mentorship, uphold high ethical standards, and always remember the tremendous influence you can have as a journalist in Nigeria. I encourage each of you to stay dedicated to your passion for journalism, be relentless in your pursuit of truth, and never lose sight of the incredible impact you can have on the world around you.

I have every confidence that each of you has the potential to become a force for good in the field of journalism, and I eagerly anticipate the inspiring stories you will share with the world.

Thank you for the opportunity to share this moment with you, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors as budding journalists in Nigeria.

Ahmed Abdulkadir is a former director at the National Broadcasting Commission and can be reached via ahmadakadir@yahoo.com

By Ibrahim Tukur

Skin bleaching in Africa has become pervasive and a concerning issue with far-reaching consequences. This phenomenon is driven by a complex interplay of cultural, social and economic factors, with detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole.

Skin bleaching, also known as skin lightening or whitening, involves the use of various products to reduce melanin levels in the skin, resulting in a lighter complexion. While this practice is not exclusive to Africa, it has gained significant prominence in many African countries. The desire for fairer skin is often rooted in deeply ingrained societal beauty standards, where lighter skin is sometimes perceived as more attractive and a symbol of success.

The use of skin bleaching products in Africa has dire consequences for individuals and public health:

Many skin bleaching products contain harsh chemicals such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, and mercury. Prolonged use of these substances can lead to skin irritation, burning sensations, excessive redness, permanent discoloration, and the formation of stubborn pimples that can result in scarring.

Skin bleaching can lead to health issues beyond skin damage. The use of mercury in some products can lead to mercury poisoning, causing a range of serious health problems, including kidney damage and neurological issues.

The societal pressure to bleach one’s skin can take a toll on individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. It reinforces harmful stereotypes and can lead to a sense of inferiority among those who do not conform to the “lighter is better” ideal.

Lightening the skin reduces its natural protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation. This puts individuals at a higher risk of skin cancer, a particularly concerning consequence of skin bleaching.

The widespread use of skin bleaching perpetuates harmful stereotypes and the belief that one’s worth is determined by their skin color. This affects societal cohesion and can exacerbate discrimination and inequality.

Addressing the skin bleaching epidemic in Africa requires a multi-faceted approach:

Governments should impose stricter regulations on the import, sale, and use of skin bleaching products, particularly those containing harmful substances. Banning these products can go a long way in protecting public health.

Comprehensive and targeted public awareness campaigns are crucial to dispel the myths surrounding skin bleaching and educate the population about its risks. These campaigns should promote self-acceptance and the appreciation of diverse beauty standards.

 Providing access to mental health services and counseling is essential for individuals who may suffer from the psychological effects of skin bleaching.

In conclusion, the skin bleaching epidemic in Africa is a pressing issue with far-reaching consequences. 

In conclusion, the skin bleaching epidemic in Africa is a pressing issue with far-reaching consequences. To combat this problem effectively, we must collectively strive to promote healthier beauty standards, protect public health, and support individuals affected by this harmful trend. It is our collective responsibility to create a society where every individual can embrace their natural beauty without feeling pressured to alter their skin colors.

Ibrahim Tukur

By Abdul Mutallib Muktar

The journey to the bar has always been quite challenging and frustrating, especially for those students who are from financially disadvantaged homes. These students usually have to endure some terrible experiences for five years or more in order to obtain LL.B from their respective universities. It is sad that after this genuine struggle and heroism, the students get out of the race at the point of registering for the Nigerian Law School because they cannot raise the humongous school fees.

Most of the 2023/2024 applicants for the Nigerian Law School this year are students who graduated from the universities in 2023. This means they spent about seven years instead of five undergoing LL.B programme because of the perennial ASUU strikes and Covid-19 that disfigured the academic calendar. Students of public universities have a sad story to tell of the above.

What stands as a dishearteningly unclimbable mountain for most law students from public universities is the payment of the Nigerian Law School fees which rose to N476,000 for registration alone this year. Before the registration, one must apply for the law school which consumes about N45,000, including the faculty charges. A flashback of some few students who could not apply because they had no N45,000 let alone N476,000, touches the heart.

Over the years and especially after the unfortunate removal of fuel subsidy, Nigerian economy has fallen into an unprecedented quagmire which sent the masses into a regrettably more pitiable condition. A lot of parents who thought they could continue to take care of the higher education of their offspring gave up and have now lost their financial balance and are only struggling to provide food for their families. It is this reason that turns many students drop outs in the last few years.

Many of the graduates who applied for the Nigerian Law School this year are struggling to reach out to either their representatives, senators, governors or philanthropists but to no avail. The letters written to them could not reach them, so also the true state of affairs of this set of their constituents. In fact, this is what fundamentally prompted this write up–perhaps it may be a speedy channel of passing the message across to them. This is the time when these law school applicants will truly appreciate any sort of help from their leaders.

Few months ago, some governors, such as His Excellency, Abba Kabir Yusuf, refunded the school fees to those who registered for the last session of the NLS. May God reward them. Although the governors have a right reason for choosing to refund and not otherwise, it is my humble suggestion that the school fees should be better paid than refunded because the biggest challenge lies in paying it. If the governors continue on the refund policy, only the capable hands will continue to benefit. With the refund policy, the philosophy behind the support will surely be defeated.

I am using this medium to humbly invite the attention of the Honourable members of the State Houses of Assembly, the National Assembly and Their Excellencies, the governors of our various states to render assistance either in form of support or sponsorship of the Nigerian Law School applicants from their respective constituencies. It is additionally a time when philanthropists across the country can help too. Without this gesture, I am quite sure many law graduates will have to face the fate of not attending the law school. As contained in a notice signed by the Director General of the Council of Legal Education, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, lectures for the Bar Part I and Bar Part II commence on 11th December, 2023 and 15th January, 2024 respectively.

Abdul Mutallib Muktar (LL.B, B.L in view) wrote from Kano via via abdulmutallib.muktar@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Adamu

THE rot in federal and state institutions is taking a toll on the hostels and most especially in the national ivory towers.

Besides being overcrowded, many of the hostels lack basic amenities. Investigation in some public high
institution across the country revealed that many of the hostels were filthy as the taps in the toilets and
bathrooms were dry. Most of the taps are only there as decorations, and some of them have never worked for once. They never dropped a single drop of water since their installation.

As an undergraduate, back then, taking one’s bath in the bathroom or even easing oneself in the toilet
was usually a hurdle because of the sanitary conditions of the facilities. Even though there were porters
who came daily (apart from Sundays) to clean, the high number of persons using the facilities coupled
with the water situation was a major challenge. Also, some of the few staff, who sometimes do their best, leave the place at the hands of the killer viruses and bacteria around.

“Due to the limited number of students which the available hostel spaces could cater for, we found ourselves in a situation where a room that is originally meant for four students was being shared by eight students – that is to say, each of the legal and bonafide occupants had a “squatter”. This is in addition to students living off campus who also had to share the same facilities as there were none (toilets) around the lecture theatres – a number that is far beyond the projection at the inception – effectively making it almost impossible for the toilets to be neat.” in many tertiary institutions across the country. The nasty situation in hostels in many tertiary institutions leaves a sour taste in the mouth.

A student in IMO state University said the situation has worsened to the extent that some students take
their bath outside the bathrooms due to long queues and the ugly scene inside.

Another factor which leads to this unhygienic and ugly conditions of the toilet facilities in our public high institutions is the crude and improper usage by the students. Most of the students in Nigeria campuses throw away their internal dirt and defecate like uncivilized people.

For the girls’ hostel, it is also another nightmare. Most girls defecate and urinate in plastic or rubber containers, then empty it into the toilet to avoid contracting infections. Even at that, the toilets are not a place to even visit for any reason, unless when it is the last and only option.

It is more comfortable for me to defecate inside the bush along the post-graduate school to avoid
contracting any disease or foul smell of the school’s toilets.”, one postgraduate student said. Despite fee increasing and enormous internally generated revenues (IGR), including subventions from the
federal and state government amounting to billions of Naira, sanitary conditions of toilets across hostels
in Nigeria universities is appalling. May be this is why almost all our toilets across the country look so bad and unkempt. This is place where knowledge and morals are expected to be, but even the basics of a healthy and decent life are completely absent. No wonder!

Abdullahi Adamu can be reached via; nasabooyoyo@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Federal Government has approved the exemption of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, announced that institutions will now handle staff remunerations independently, aiming to provide greater autonomy for efficient management. 

The move is not a critique of IPPIS integrity but a step toward preserving universities’ autonomy, according to Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman.

The decision follows longstanding tensions with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which advocates for the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) over IPPIS. 

This exemption marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over the ideal system for managing personnel and payroll in Nigerian higher education.

By Misbahu El-Hamza

My discomfort taking pictures of people in a social event is obvious even to some people around me; friends and families.

There was a time I was commissioned by a place I once worked for to cover an event, a woman honorably stood from her seat and whispered in my ears, “please try to avoid me in your photos.” “Thank you so much for letting me know, Hajiya.” I replied. To this day, I respect the woman, but had she known, it was also against my wish doing that.

Now I know better how to cover an event with people consent. A skill I learned in 2023. But how about the streets?

I love #streetphotography. Looking at most of my photos, you’ll notice that I rarely capture people in my frame. That’s partly because I don’t like being interrogated for pointing my camera and shooting at random strangers, rightly, against their will.

It made me so uncomfortable for someone to perceive that I breach their privacy. So, I choose to capture only landscape and other objects I found interesting.

However, in Nigeria — at least in my experience, even pointing your at your feet can provoke anger. People will question you for that aggressively.

Let me further illustrate two experiences: a few months ago in Benue State, I bought yogurt in a restaurant opposite a market and noticed a beautiful statue of a milk cow. While taking a photo of it, a police officer, holding a gun obviously to intimidate me, questioned why I hadn’t obtained permission from him. This was a man emerging from nowhere near the restaurant. With my assertion that I didn’t know permission was required, he grew angrier. Eventually, I realized he sought only for a bribe, and I insisted we consult the restaurant manager. And that’s why he reluctantly let me go with my photo.

Fast forward to an LGA in Kano State where my colleague and I saw a remarkable solar plant at a healthcare facility generating 24/7 electricity. When I tried to capture it on my phone, from a distance, three hostile men confronted us, questioning why we were “staring” at the plant without their permission. Staring at it! They treated us as if we were informants or criminals. One of them even threaten us — and I dared him to try laying hands on any of us. But eventually, witht the arrival of the officer in charge of the facility, that hostile man was even the one stopping a bike for us at last.

As much as I respect people’s privacy (which is one reason why I don’t fly my drone these days), I understand that streetphotography is a hard thing for me in this country because people are unnecessarily angry. Even as you try to avoid them, they’ll find a reason to engage you.

This year alone, I have developed more than five extraordinary ideas of streets photography with northern Nigeria as the setting, but I am still skeptical. And I wonder how photographers developing content around this area do it without much troubles.

Please, how can I peacefully execute my projects in 2024 without inviting trouble on the streets?🤔

— Misbahu El-Hamza is a social analyst from Kano State, Nigeria.

Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello

Beyond hospital settings, harmful practices persist, particularly in developing countries where obtaining drugs over the counter is prevalent, and drug vendors may lack comprehensive knowledge of medications and diseases. From Penicillin to Ceftriaxone, these precious drugs, which require protection, can be obtained without prescriptions, posing a significant threat.

The ease of access to drugs has paved the way for self-treatment or “chemist” consultations, fostering malpractices. Again, a frequent occurrence is the prescription of antibiotics for the common cold. Research indicates that the common cold is predominantly caused by viruses, which are not responsive to antibiotics. It is a self-limiting condition that can be managed with measures such as steam inhalation, antihistamines like loratadine, and decongestants.

Similar to the common cold, most cases of sudden onset of watery stool, not stained with blood or mucus, with or without vomiting, are often of viral origin. This is typically a self-limiting condition that usually does not require antibiotics. In the management of diarrhoea, especially in children, the primary focus is on fluid therapy using Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). Drug treatment is seldom beneficial, and antidiarrheal (antimotility) drugs can be harmful. Unfortunately, many individuals quickly resort to taking Flagyl, Loperamide, or Lomotil at the onset of diarrhoea.

However, bloody or mucoid stool, high fever, severe abdominal pain and prolonged diarrhoea are pointers to more serious conditions that may warrant antimicrobial use and should be quickly evaluated by a qualified doctor. In such instances, the use of antimotility agents is highly discouraged as it could lead to catastrophic outcomes like bowel perforation.

Another problem that continues to fuel this issue is the widespread and perplexing “Malaria-Typhoid diagnosis.” The lack of clinical skills needed to appropriately discern acute febrile illnesses coupled with excessive reliance on the outdated Widal test is driving an alarming prevalence of this peculiar diagnosis. 

Most cases exhibit a sudden onset of high-grade intermittent fever with chills and rigours, particularly worsening in the evening. This is usually associated with generalized body weakness and pain, with no symptoms attributable to the gastrointestinal system (abdomen). In a region and time where malaria is quite prevalent, this most likely suggests a simple case of Uncomplicated Malaria that should be managed as such. Strangely in our setting such cases are quickly subjected to not only Malaria but also Widal (Typhoid) tests at the request of a healthcare worker or even on self-referral.

Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated that the Widal test lacks high specificity, particularly in endemic zones such as ours, where repeated exposure to the bacteria is prevalent. Cross-reactivity with various diseases, including Malaria—a frequent cause of fever in Nigeria—and challenges in interpretation further restrict its reliability as a diagnostic indicator. 

It is therefore evident that the indiscriminate demand for the Widal test is causing the over-diagnosis of Typhoid fever, leading to the inappropriate use of antibiotics. 

This practice has also led to the wrong notion of “chronic symptomatic typhoid” among gullible persons. Typhoid fever is not in the league of HIV & Hepatitis B. Infection in typhoid does not endure indefinitely but could recur, especially when the underlying risk factors like unsafe water and poor hygiene persist. 

Chronic carriers do exist but are typically asymptomatic, holding more significance for public health due to their ongoing shedding of bacteria in their stool, a phenomenon reminiscent of the famous story of Typhoid Mary. Hence, statements like “Typhoid dina ne ya tashi” (I have a flare of a longstanding typhoid infection) and “Typhoid dina ne ya zama chronic” (I have a chronic typhoid infection) are grossly inaccurate.

While not antibiotics, antimalarials, unfortunately, face their fair share of misuse. A prevalent mispractice involves the irrational use of injectable antimalarial drugs such as IM Arthemeter and even the almighty Artesunate. Nowadays, individuals often opt for injections, citing reasons like “I prefer not to swallow pills” or the perception of faster and more effective results. The most concerning scenario occurs when the condition is misdiagnosed as Malaria, especially in many “chemist” settings. This not only entails misuse but also results in economic waste, unnecessary stress, and the potential risks associated with injections.

Regrettably, injectable antimalarials are meant for treating severe forms of malaria, which someone walking into a chemist likely does not have. This is akin to deploying elite special forces for a minor crime. These forces should be mobilized only for significantly heightened threats or when the situation surpasses the capacity of initial responders.

Recommendations: The government plays a crucial role in this battle. Policies and regulations must be established to ensure the optimal utilization of these drugs. To address our persistent issue, these policies should not remain mere documents in offices but must be strictly enforced, with penalties imposed on those who violate them. These regulations should encompass various aspects, including the use of antibiotics in veterinary practice and food production, as well as proper oversight of the opening and operation of patent medicine stores.

Prevention is certainly better than cure. Tackling infectious diseases at the primary level is more impactful and cost-effective. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the significance of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in disease transmission & control. Hand hygiene, a practice widely adopted in 2020, stands out as the most crucial measure to prevent the spread of infections. Therefore it is crucial to provide communities with access to potable water and sufficient sanitary infrastructure to forestall the spread of these diseases in our society.

In managing most infections, a standardized treatment guideline outlines the specific drugs, their timing, and proper usage. You might be intrigued to discover that many practitioners may not even be aware of a specific Nigeria Standard Treatment Guideline document or other guidelines for various medical conditions.

In the absence of a local protocol, variations in management may arise among colleagues due to diverse backgrounds and training. Nowadays, particularly in secondary healthcare, many learn primarily through apprenticeship without referring to standards or understanding the rationale behind certain “innovative” practices. Unfortunately, what one is accustomed to may be incorrect and potentially harmful, or at best suitable only within the constraints commonly found at lower levels of healthcare.

Therefore, despite the challenges in our setting, doctors must prioritize continuous medical education to stay updated on global trends and standards while navigating the complexities of our setting. These innovations should not only be embraced as centre-specific practices or based on individual preferences like “this is how we do it in our centre” or “this is how Prof XYZ does it,” but they should also serve as opportunities for research and scientific validation.

Also, hospitals should formulate treatment protocols tailored to their unique circumstances, disseminate them widely, offer them as job aids at points of care, and ensure strict adherence by practitioners.

Furthermore, healthcare practitioners should dedicate time to counsel patients about the significance and potential risks associated with adhering to the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment. In well-established hospitals, it is imperative to institutionalize antimicrobial stewardship to ensure effective utilisation and surveillance of resistance patterns. 

Ultimately, this is a battle declared by the microbial world on humanity, and everyone has a crucial role to play. Individuals should actively seek sound medical advice regarding diseases and treatments, avoiding the inclination to resort to self-help or patronize quacks. So when you take antibiotics for a simple common cold, know that you may be endangering humanity. When you fail to complete your antibiotics for the duration prescribed, you are surely endangering humanity. When you continue to treat typhoid when it is not the culprit, you are harming the patient and the world at large. Even you the medical practitioner, if you prescribe inappropriately, you are hurting the system.

Lastly, I encourage everyone to be advocates for responsible antibiotic use. Let’s utilize these valuable and endangered assets judiciously to avert a future where no drugs can cure pneumonia, syphilis, or meningitis – a potential regression to the 19th century. Remember, this is natural selection in action – it is not a lost battle but a fight for survival, one that we must undoubtedly triumph in. Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello is a proud graduate of ABU Zaria. He is a Malnutrition Inpatient Care trainer and currently serves as a Medical Officer at both Khalifa Sheikh Isyaka Rabiu Paediatric Hospital in Kano and Yobe State Specialists Hospital in Damaturu. He can be reached at ismobello@gmail.com

By Abdelghaffar Amoka

I travelled home in 2012 after my PhD and one of my older cousins asked when I would become a Professor. I laughed and told him it would still take some years, and I jokingly told him I was not keen on becoming a Professor. He became angry at my response and said I should get the Professor for them even if I didn’t want it. After I left him, I began to wonder what is in that rank that some people want at all costs.

I can still remember the huge congratulatory messages I received after my friend and colleague shared on Facebook the news of my promotion to that rank. Sometimes I reflect on those messages and imagine how rich I would have been if those congratulatory messages could be transformed into cash. Here we are struggling, and some of us can’t even drive our cars any longer.

The Nigerian Professor

Becoming a Professor, the peak in academia, is something most academics look forward to. The title still comes with some prestige and perceived false benefits attached to it by outsiders. I once read a post on Facebook that said professors are stingy. Poor professors and the public want them to spend the money they don’t have. I went to buy a seat cover for my car a few years ago and the seller said lecturers have money but refused to spend it. I asked how much he thinks a professor is earning, and he said it can’t be less than N700,000. I laughed very hard.

I have written a lot on the remuneration of academics in Nigerian public universities, but many still don’t believe the figures. Yeah! Too bad to be true as compared with their perception. I had a discussion with one of our PG students, who is a lecturer in a state polytechnic, about salary disparity in the Nigerian public sector yesterday, and the salaries of university lecturers came into the discussion. I told him the figures, and the smile on his face showed that he didn’t believe it but couldn’t say I was lying. So, I logged in to the university portal and showed him my payslip. The gross, the deduction, and the net. We met again today, and he said that until yesterday, he never believed that a Professor on step 4 was earning less than N600,000.

Again this is the salary of academics in any federal government university in Nigeria. The quoted value is for step 2, the rank:

~The Assistant Lecturer’s net salary with all his allowances is N118,279 (105 USD).

~Lecturer II’s net salary with all his allowances is N129,724 (115 USD).

~Lecturer I net salary with all his allowances is: N160,809 (142 USD)

~Senior Lecturer’s net salary with all his allowances is: N222,229 (197 USD)

~Reader (Associate Professor) net salary with all his allowances is: N277,179 (245 USD)

~The professor’s net salary with all his allowances is N332,833 (294 USD).

The University workers are perhaps the only federal government workers whose salary is yet to be reviewed since 2009, that is for 14 years despite inflation. Those who were already professors in 2009 are still receiving the same salary since then. Your comfort is key to your output.

Aside from the academic work and the research and publication work that forms the bulk of your promotion criteria, you are loaded with administrative responsibilities without responsibility allowance. They call it ‘community services’. You can be denied promotion if you don’t have enough of the said “community services”.

If you happen to travel outside the University for a conference and you are lucky to be funded, the travel allowance is as follows:

~Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) for the professorial cadre is N16,000 per night.

~Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) for Senior Lecturer cadre and below is N12,000 per night.

~The transportation allowance is N20 per km.

If a Professor is to travel 200 km for an assignment that lasts for a day, he will get a DTA of N32,000 for 2 nights for his hotel accommodation for 2 nights and feeding and N8,000 for transportation. That is a total of N40,000. Despite the fact that FG has approved a new DTA for public service in September 2022, the universities can’t afford the new rate a year later. I applaud the patience of my colleagues, but the patient dogs are dying of hunger.

Meanwhile, education is said to be key to national development.

Dear prospective academics, I love academia. For me, it is not a job but a way of life. However, ask questions before you wish to join academia and become a Professor. The job as it is at the moment can’t pay your bills for a decent life.

Abdelghaffar Amoka Abdelmalik, PhD, wrote from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He can be reached via aaabdelmalik@gmail.com.

Dear Vice-Chancellor,

We are writing to express our concern regarding the enrolment of recruited staff at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), Katsina State, on the IPPIS. Despite completing all necessary documentation processes and waiting for almost three years, there has been significant uncertainty surrounding the actual enrolment of the affected employees.

This issue has caused pain and disappointment among the recruited staff. The delay not only impacts the morale and confidence of the affected employees but also raises questions about the efficiency of FUDMA’s bureaucratic administrative processes. Some have resigned from their previous employment, anticipating working at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma. The anticipation has been prolonged, and the affected workers need to know whether there are still possibilities for them to be captured on the IPPIS or not.

It is essential to acknowledge the efforts invested by the new recruits in completing their documentation promptly. Failing to enrol them in a timely manner not only hinders their ability to contribute effectively to the university but also reflects poorly on the university’s commitment to its employees.

I urge you to address this matter promptly, identify the reasons for the delay, and take necessary actions to expedite the enrolment process for the recruited staff. Open and transparent communication regarding the steps being taken to resolve this issue will help alleviate concerns and maintain FUDMA’s reputation for professionalism and efficiency.

Your immediate intervention in addressing all allegations of employment racketeering is highly appreciated, as it directly impacts the well-being of your tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma and its staff.

Pending IPPIS FUDUMA Staff. They can be contacted via aishaumarabdullah2000@gmail.com.

By Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello

You have likely heard about climate change, a pressing existential threat demanding global collaboration. However, it is not the sole concern. Antibiotic resistance is another rapidly emerging issue that demands urgent attention.

Not too long ago, the pathological basis of diseases was shrouded in mystery, often attributed to superstitions. About four hundred (400) years back, the role of microbes in disease causation was still unknown. It took the discovery of the microscope and the works of Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek to open our eyes to the unseen world – the realm of microbes – surrounding and inhabiting us.

Microbes, omnipresent and adaptable, have evolved significantly to thrive in a constantly changing world. The human connection with microbes is extensive and intriguing. Thanks to their versatility, microorganisms are instrumental in driving human technological advances through their varying applications in agriculture, environmental protection, medicine and industrial production. From drug discovery and development to their role in bioremediation, biotechnology, and the emerging field of genetic engineering, microorganisms have played a monumental role in the survival and progress of life forms on Earth, even shaping civilizations.

Nevertheless, despite their crucial role in the earth’s functions, microbes also contribute to human misery as pathogens. Despite global efforts to combat them, infectious diseases persist as a challenge, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa where the existing weak health system grapples with a double burden of diseases – an increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases alongside prevailing communicable diseases.

Apart from the substantial morbidity and mortality resulting from infectious diseases, the burden encompasses economic losses due to healthcare expenses and disabilities, as well as a decline in productivity. In a broader sense, infectious diseases hinder human development by adversely affecting education, income, life expectancy, and other health indicators.

While current morbidity and mortality rates remain notably high, the situation contrasts significantly with the past where certain infections, now easily treatable, were once considered death sentences or challenging to address. The serendipitous discovery of Penicillin by Alexander Fleming stands out as a pivotal moment in medical history. “Antibiotics” not only transformed the curability of many diseases but, coupled with advancements in anaesthesia, also enhanced the safety and feasibility of major surgeries.

While the term “antibiotics” holds a more specific meaning in pharmacology, commonly it refers to a category of drugs utilized in treating “bacterial” infections. Bacteria, while a significant group, represents just one class of microorganisms; others include viruses, fungi, parasites, and even prions. Antibiotics function by disrupting vital processes in microbes leading to a loss of structural integrity or functional capacity, ultimately causing them to die or halt their replication.

Antibiotics encompass a diverse group of drugs, belonging to various classes, each effective against specific types of organisms. They include the well-known Amoxicillin (Amoxil), Ampicillin-Cloxacillin (Ampiclox), Metronidazole (Flagyl), Ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin-Clavulanate (Augmentin) and numerous others easily accessible over-the-counter in our setting. Antibiotics have played crucial roles in combatting menacing diseases like Tuberculosis, Leprosy, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, bacterial pneumonia, acute bacterial meningitis, and many others.

The introduction of these drugs came as a huge blow to the pathogenic microbes that previously had a field day. However, in line with natural selection, they didn’t succumb passively and perceived the development as a declaration of war. Over the years, these microbes evolved, becoming insensitive to many of these drugs—a phenomenon known as antibiotic resistance.

In response, scientists discovered new drugs, tweaked some of the existing drugs or synthesized novel ones. This led to a vicious cycle, whereas new drugs are developed, these organisms adapt and become resistant. This trend persists to our present day, leading to the emergence of highly resistant strains of microorganisms that are not susceptible to most of the antibiotics used in treating the kind of infections they cause – the so-called Superbugs. 

Unfortunately, this cycle is not sustainable for mankind. The rate at which microbes adapt to our drugs is faster than the turnout of our drugs. It takes about 10-15 years to develop a new antibiotic. Not only that, studies have shown that the estimated global cost of developing a new, targeted antibiotic will cost over a billion USD ($1 Billion), making it a highly expensive and risky venture for pharmaceutical companies.

The combination of these factors has impeded innovation in the field of antibiotics. Notably, the latest discovery of a new “class of antibiotics” that has reached the market was back in 1987. Since then we have been in a “discovery void” era, and currently, there are few novel antibiotic classes in the drug development pipeline. 

In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) identified twenty-eight (28) antibiotics in clinical development that address the WHO list of priority pathogens, of which only six (6) were classified as innovative. The repercussions are felt globally as an increasing number of bacterial infections are becoming hard to treat, once again posing a threat to global health and development.

Undoubtedly, resistance is a natural phenomenon and will eventually develop against some antibiotics. However, the accelerated rate at which it is occurring is aided by our irrational use of these drugs. Therefore, prudent use will surely slow down the process. 

Key determinants of antibiotic resistance include antibiotic abuse in veterinary and medical practice, inadequate provision of Water, Sanitation and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, and the effectiveness of policy development and enforcement.

Dr. Ismail is a Medical Officer at Khalifa Sheikh Isyaka Rabiu Paediatric Hospital, Zoo Road, Tarauni, Kano State.