Opinion

By Ukasha Rabiu Magama

The issuance of fake certificates, both within Nigeria and abroad, is not a new phenomenon. Many institutions globally face accusations of awarding certificates to undeserving candidates. Therefore, the case of Cotonou should not be singled out or become a focal point of public discussion.

While many institutions accused of such scandals in Nigeria vehemently deny the claims to protect their prestige, instances of fake certificate awards are prevalent. The consequences of counterfeit certificates awarded by Nigerian institutions are evident across various sectors, including the military, medical profession, education, agriculture, engineering, commerce, and politics.

The detrimental impact is reflected in Nigeria’s current challenges, such as a compromised democratic atmosphere, a corrupt educational system, unqualified medical personnel, an unorganised defence system, and widespread insecurity. 

The proliferation of WAEC, NECO, and JAMB miracle centres in Nigeria’s corrupt educational system contributes to the emergence of fake police and military officers, incompetent leaders, and escalating security challenges.

Banning Cotonou and Togo degree certificates might not be optimal, considering that Nigerian institutions must be held accountable. Fake certificate issues extend beyond international borders, with corruption being a pervasive challenge in Africa. Eliminating corruption is a formidable task, and scrutiny is warranted not only for the exposed journalist but also for individuals who acquire certificates through illegal means in Nigeria.

It is imperative for authorities to investigate how the journalist obtained his certificates in just six weeks and to allow the implicated institutions to present their case. Acknowledging the evident disparities among the three countries, Benin Republic and Togo have three three-year first-degree systems, unlike Nigeria, which has a maximum of 4-5 years.

Globally, the minimum time required to acquire a degree certificate is three years. Also, in Cotonou and Togo, this standard isn’t compromised. Meanwhile, not everyone who went to school or graduated from the suspended institutions bought certificates, and not every school in Togo or Benin Republic was involved in buying, selling, or awarding fake certificates.

Therefore, there is a need for the federal government of Nigeria to reverse its decision to suspend the degree programs in Togo and Cotonou and or arrest the journalists and the management of EGST University involved in such ungodly acts to face the wrath of the law. The allegation of buying, selling, and awarding fake certificates is not only peculiar to the Benin Republic and Togo but has also been alleged here in Nigeria.

In recent years, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Lagos State University, Imo State University, and the University of Jos were accused of selling and awarding fake certificates to undeserving candidates. The point here is, why did the federal government of Nigeria fail to sanction or suspend those institutions if it wanted to curb corruption in its educational system? Therefore, addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach and a fair examination, not just suspending innocent institutions and maintaining the global standard in awarding degree certificates. 

To this end, the Students Union Government of the Institute Superirieur de Formation Professionelle are here to draw the attention of the federal government of Nigeria to reverse its decision to suspend Togo and Cotonou degree programs. On the other hand, it calls on the government to thoroughly investigate whether the said journalist followed a legal process in obtaining his degree from the accused certificates.

Ukasha Rabiu Magama wrote an opinion of Adamade Peter Adamade, National President of ISFOP University’s Alumni.

By: Ibrahim Suleiman Ibrahim

In today’s consistently evolving digital world, the pursuit of digital/ICT skills has become increasingly important for individuals and communities alike. This is particularly relevant for Muslim women, who often face unique challenges in balancing their religious and family values with their career choices, hence, making them to be left behind in the digital landscape.

In this article, we will explore the importance of creating awareness among Muslim communities about the need for Muslim women, especially the married ones, to pursue digital/ICT skills.

One of the primary concerns of Muslim women is the compatibility of their careers with their religious values and family life. Most jobs in our contemporary secular societies often raise ‘Sharee’ah’ concerns—which mostly revolve around free mixing and intimacy with ‘non-mahrams’, prolonged unavailability in their matrimonial homes that often impede performance of domestic responsibilities, compromising the Islamically mandated mode of dressing for Muslim women, and so on, making it challenging for some educated Muslim women to identify fulfilling careers that align with their religious values and beliefs.

God so kind, the recent advancements in the ICT sector has now alternatively offered a wealth of opportunities for Muslim women to pursue careers that are both fulfilling and compatible with their ‘Deen’ and family life, but unfortunately, most Muslim women lack sufficient awareness of those opportunities.

It is quite essential for Islamic scholars and Muslim elites to be aware of the recent advancements in the ICT sector and to consider enlightening their communities about the potential benefits of digital/ICT skills for Muslim women. By promoting awareness and understanding, these leaders can help Muslim women make informed decisions about their careers and contribute to the overall empowerment of the community, without compromising their religious values and beliefs.

Importantly, pursuing digital/ICT skills can also lead to remote job opportunities that offer flexibility and work-life balance. These jobs allow women to work from their homes, enabling them to demonstrate their supportive roles in their marriages, while still advancing their careers. Some of the skills that can lead to remote job opportunities include web development, copywriting, social media management, digital marketing, graphic designs, virtual administration, data analytics and so on.

Furthermore, encouraging Muslim women to pursue digital/ICT skills can lead to greater empowerment and intellectual development. By acquiring these skills, Muslim women can supportively contribute to their families’ finances and also become more intellectually sound, which is in line with the principles of Islam that promote the pursuit of knowledge.

In conclusion, we are in an interconnected world where digital skills are increasingly relevant across all sectors. Muslim women lawfully deserve to be equiped with these skills so they can also participate more actively in the global economy and contribute to the advancement of their communities, within the limits of Sharee’ah.

There may be misconceptions within Muslim communities about the compatibility of digital/ICT careers with Islamic principles. However, creating awareness can help address these misconceptions and demonstrate how these skills can be utilized in ways that are consistent with religious values.

It’s therefore crucial for community leaders, including Islamic scholars and Muslim elites, to actively promote the value of digital/ICT skills for Muslim women. Their support and endorsement can greatly influence the attitudes and decisions of community members.

Ibrahim Suleiman Ibrahim is a Public Affairs Analyst. He can be reached via: suleimibrahim00@gmail.com

By Al-Jannat Mohammed

The distinction between one’s private and public life is becoming more and more hazy in a time when social media dominates. Celebrities, who were formerly admired for their abilities and accomplishments, now have to navigate a world in which the public is interested in every aspect of their lives.

The younger generation has been influenced by this culture of perpetual exposure, as they readily divulge personal information online, undermining the idea of privacy. The story of Nigerian actor, Yul Edochi, and his second wife is a compelling illustration of this phenomena, and offers a prism through which to consider the effects of this invasion of privacy.

Without a doubt, the emergence of social media has completely changed how people communicate, making it possible to share information instantly with anyone on the planet. The loss of personal boundaries that results from people voluntarily disclosing their private lives to the world is the drawback, though.

Because they are in the public glare, celebrities have been hardest hit by this cultural change. For example, Yul Edochi’s second marriage turned into a social media show, with every detail of their union, family dynamics, and personal hardships visible to everybody with an internet connection.

Beyond just celebrities, this tendency affects the younger generation as well, who have grown up in a time of continual communication. Many people reveal personal information about themselves online because they want to be validated and accepted by others.

The younger generation frequently compromises privacy in the chase of likes, comments and virtual acceptance, whether it be for relationship milestones or personal struggles. This raises questions about how such behaviour may affect people’s general well-being, self-esteem and mental health in the long run.

Although the loss of privacy is a complicated problem with wide-ranging effects on the society, there may be ways to lessen its effects. Above all, it is critical to teach the next generation the value of establishing and upholding limits. Giving people the skills to decide what parts of their lives are best kept private helps them feel more in charge of their own story.

Prioritising digital literacy education is important, with a focus on the lasting nature of online content and the possible repercussions of excessive sharing.

Social media sites can also be extremely important in encouraging responsible sharing. Pop-up reminders and privacy checklists are two examples of features that can be implemented to encourage users to reconsider sharing sensitive information and prevent impulsive sharing.

Platforms should also make investments in strong privacy settings so that users may decide who can see their content. Encouraging social media usage in a way that is balanced and respects one’s personal limits sends a strong message about how important privacy protection is.

In the end, the degradation of privacy in the era of celebrity culture is a complex problem that calls for cooperation from people, organisations, and digital platforms. Fostering a healthier connection with the digital world requires finding a balance between the advantages of connectedness and the maintenance of personal boundaries.

We may endeavour to create a culture that values and respects privacy in an increasingly connected world by embracing responsible sharing behaviours, encouraging digital literacy, and setting positive examples.

Al-Janat Mohammed is an NYSC corps member with PRNigeria in Abuja

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The phrase “Ni Dan Rigasa ne” (which means “I am an inhabitant of Rigasa”) was once notorious within the Kaduna metropolis, evoking a troubled history. Rigasa, a well-known community under the authority of Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, boasts a dense population of over 3 million inhabitants, primarily from the Hausa tribe, making Hausa the predominant language of communication in the community.

In the past, the phrase “Ni Dan Rigasa ne” was akin to saying “I’m from O’block” in Chicago, United States. It connoted hailing from a place where violence was rampant, almost warning others to steer clear due to assumed tendencies for aggression. While certain notions about the community were stereotyped, these stereotypes held some semblance of truth, however generalised.

Due to Rigasa’s population density, a large number of out-of-school children roamed the streets. Some scavenged within different marketplaces, while a fortunate few were sent to learn skills. Many adolescents and young people in the community had been immersed in illicit activities, often engaging in violent altercations, causing harm to themselves and others while also perpetuating property destruction.

During this period, the term “Yan shara” was commonly used, referring to gangs of thugs armed with weapons, causing mayhem and inflicting injuries and damages. This unrest often served as an opportunity for robbery, leading to the theft of belongings from innocent passers-by.

Phone snatching was prevalent, and individuals lived in fear of being victimised in broad daylight. Such incidents resulted in injuries, disabilities, and even fatalities.

As a result, the community became daunting to outsiders, dissuading visits from people from other parts of the state due to the fear of potential unrest or falling victim to robbery.

“Yan hayi” was another term those living outside Rigasa used to describe the residents, signifying people residing in Hayin Rigasa. The word “Hayi” conveys “crossing,” and was derived from the fact that a river at the entrance of Rigasa had to be traversed before entering the community. During that era, being called “Dan Hayi” implied that one was unwise or unsophisticated.

These stereotypes gradually dissipated over time as Rigasa transformed into a burgeoning community with abundant, relatively affordable land. People from other parts of the state began to immigrate to Rigasa and construct houses. Consequently, Rigasa has become one of the most rapidly developed communities over the past two decades, a testament to its positive transformation.

Despite the aforementioned tumultuous events, the residents of the Rigasa community are among the most selfless individuals one could encounter. Their spirit of altruism and patriotism is unparalleled, and they channelled their unity towards overcoming adversities and shaping a brighter future for their community. Education served as the fulcrum for this positive transformation, marking the inception of their development journey. 

Over two decades ago, a group of forward-thinking individuals came together to establish a forum to foster education and community development to promote success. The Rigasa Students Forum (S-Foris) was formed to orient, educate, and mentor the people within the community, including the younger generation and the elder populace. 

S-Foris was instrumental in providing extramural lessons to students and introducing adult education to elderly individuals, particularly women who did not have the opportunity to acquire education earlier in their lives. The forum made significant strides in transforming the mindset of numerous youths in the community, achieving notable success.

Subsequently, other student bodies, such as the Rigasa Students Association (RSA) and Rigasa Old Student Association (ROSA), emerged with similar aspirations, continuing the trajectory of success.

Building on these achievements, the same group of individuals sought to elevate their advocacy efforts by expanding the scope of development-related initiatives. This led to the formation of the Rigasa Action and Awareness Forum (RAAF). RAAF operates as a pressure group, enlightening the community about various aspects of development and advocating for adherence to the rule of law. Moreover, the forum takes proactive measures to ensure that the government addresses the needs and concerns of the Rigasa community.

Due to the tireless efforts of a dedicated group, Rigasa can be considered a benchmark for positive change. The community boasts numerous talented individuals who excel across various domains of development. Academically, Government Secondary School Rigasa has produced a multitude of intellectuals who have excelled in academia. Moreover, developmentally, Rigasa is home to the leading youth civil society organisation in Kaduna, the Enhancing Community Action for Peace and Better Health Initiative (e-CAPH), headed by the vibrant young leader and prominent human rights advocate, Yusha’u M Abubakar. Additionally, the Village Debbo Care Initiative (VD Care), led by Samira Isah Modibbo, serves as another influential platform for women’s rights, among other organisations contributing to the community’s progress.

Before the 2023 election, during the voter registration exercise, RAAF played a pivotal role in mobilising citizens for registration and transfer, as Rigasa welcomed the addition of over 80 polling units. This effort led to mobilising over 10,000 additional votes within the community, presenting a significant political advantage considering the maxim “politics is a game of numbers.”

“Dan Rigasa” or “Dan Hayi” is no longer derogatory but a source of pride. Rigasa is now widely represented in learning institutions and governmental agencies across northern Nigeria. Rigasa youth have obtained prominent positions in government, excelled in business endeavours, and showcased their skills across various industries. The community has notably enhanced its security, becoming one of the safest locales in Kaduna State, fostering an environment where individuals can navigate without fear of robbery or threat to personal safety.

Amid these accomplishments, humanitarian services have also flourished. Zauren Al’umma, led by Idris Tumba, has emerged as a notable humanitarian organisation providing crucial aid to vulnerable individuals in diverse capacities, further accentuating the community’s spirit of benevolence.

Rigasa’s journey reflects a remarkable transformation, underscored by a commitment to education, civic engagement, and holistic community development. Rigasa people are fond of helping each other in an individual capacity and as an organisation.

I can confidently beat my chest wherever I find myself and proudly exclaim, “Ni Dan Rigasa Ne,” without fearing any stereotype or judgment. I am confident that Rigasa is now well-represented widely.

Abdullahi Yusuf is a graduate of Health Education, Bayero University Kano. He wrote from Rigasa, Kaduna, via abdoolphd@gmail.com.

By Ismail Namadi 

In 2014, $1 was equivalent to ₦200. At that time, one bag of 50kg rice was around ₦8,000 ($40), and the minimum wage was N18,000 ($90). 

Comparably, in January 2024 (10 years apart), $1 is around ₦1,500. The Minimum wage is ₦30,000. A simple calculation is 18000/200 = $90; 30,000/1,500 = $20.

What does this simple calculation mean? In real terms, over the past ten years, despite the increase in the minimum wage from ₦18,000 to ₦30,000 per month, purchasing power has decreased by over 75%.

However, in 2014, the PMS pump price per litre was 87 Naira, while the current price in 2024 is ₦700 per litre. 

The Nigerian budget in 2014 was ₦4.962 trillion, while in 2024, the budget is ₦28.77 trillion. These variables are paramount when considering minimum wage simply because they directly affect the lives of people in the country. 

For example, the federal government removed the subsidy on petroleum products, which led to a skyrocketing price of general goods and services, making the lives of citizens, especially low-income earners, difficult to manage.

In addition, the dollar plays a significant role in our economy because we depend on foreign importation for consumable goods. The dollar is the only legal tender that we use to patronize foreign goods.

My advice to the federal government is that when it decides to review the minimum wage, it should consider the purchasing power of the naira so that the standard of living of Nigerian workers is improved.

Ismail Namadi wrote from Paderborn, Germany, via Ismailnamadi2006@gmail.com. 

By Salihi Adamu Takai

It has been almost a month that – the discussion on the issue of the discovered “existing law”, Marriage Practice Control (CAP 26) in Kano State has become the topic of the discussion on the media. The existing law that regulated the marriage practices among the respective Kano State community on how to get married in harmony, has been discovered by the notorious lawyer in Kano, Barrister Abba Hikima. The existing law, in section 5, has listed some practices that are not allowed in the marriage – and doing so – shall put the offender into a danger of imprisonment – or its likes as it’s mentioned in section 8 of the Act.

Notwithstanding of the fact that, the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, unequivocally, recognises the existing law in section 315, the Marriage Practice Control (CAP 26) 1988 in Kano is not effective. The law is, as it’s recognised by the Constitution, valid – but it seems useless or not in existence. The essence of any law is to control the existence of the people. It gives the right of doing something and at the same time stops people from doing something.

As I heard about “the existing law” in question, I got confused pondering on it that how could this be possible? – it seems like it’s not for Kano – or it’s just in my dreams! The law is in contrary with the people of Kano State.

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives room for the State House of Assembly to make law in accordance with the culture and customs of the people living in any state. Therefore, the then government of Kano State, in 1988, made that law (Marriage Practice Control) to control the marriage practices in those days. Unfortunately, the law they made for the marriage practices, is still not in conformity with the people in the State. The people of Kano are very serious about their culture and religion. They don’t leave their culture for anything other than religion. I believe that – the law that can be so effective to them – can be that one in conformity with their cultural norms and values. You can’t control something practicable and recognisable in one’s culture and make it effective to him/her easily.

In conclusion, I am with the opinion that – the issues of marriage practices can only be controlled when they’re not in conformity with the religion, but when they remain discretionary on the people practicing them can still remain classical. Marriage is being practiced in accordance with culture and religion – or culture of the people. This is the reason why the existing law of the Marriage Practice Control (Supra) is not effective. It’s beyond the perspective of the people living in its jurisdiction.

By Bilyaminu Abdulmumini

One of the four books I read in 2023 was They Called Me A Lioness, which I read courtesy of Dr Muhsin Ibrahim, who shared the soft copy. The book’s true-life storytelling and the author’s command of the English language captivated me, keeping me glued to its pages.

Ahed Tamimi, the book’s narrator (written by Dena Takruri), was born and raised in the village of Nabi Saleh, northwest of Ramallah, a city known for its flashes in the Israel-Palestine conflict in the West Bank. Nabi Saleh gained notoriety for its resistance system, characterised by coordinated processions that garnered local and international attention every Friday. Journalists, sympathisers, and NGOs witness these Friday processions. Nabi Saleh vehemently opposed the Israeli occupation (I reserved the history and Israeli occupation saga to another article).

While the protests in Nabi Saleh were generally considered peaceful, occasional outbreaks of violence were not unheard of, though they were one-sided. While Palestinians employed stones, the Israeli soldiers were armed with superior weapons such as water cannons, tear gas, rubber-coated steel bullets, and sometimes even live ammunition.

Amid these sporadic instances of violence, Ahed would witness her mother being shot in the leg by a soldier, her younger brother pinned to the ground by another soldier, her favourite uncle bleeding to death, night raids, and the repeated arrest and imprisonment of her father.

To say that this series of events paved the way for Ahed’s transformation into a brave individual, as her nickname implies, would be an understatement. Ahed’s courageous resistance and fearless confrontations with Israeli soldiers earned her both local and international acclaim.

Tamimi first gained international recognition when she was just a child, under the age of 10, for confronting Israeli soldiers who had abducted her brother. This confrontation, captured on film, went viral, captivating people worldwide. She was seen as a symbol of the bravery of Palestinian children and the spirit of their resistance against the Israeli occupation. Early during the Ukraine-Russia war, the video resurfaced, and the usual social media misinformation circulated it to be a Ukraine child protesting against Russian inversion.

Tamimi’s next international spotlight was intriguing. She engaged in a confrontation with soldiers to prevent them from arresting an Israeli, Miko Peled. Few expected this turn of events. Miko is the son of the famous Israeli general Mattityahu Peled, a celebrated hero who fought in the 1967 war on the side of Israel. However, he later retired from the army and became a tireless peace activist, advocating for Israel’s withdrawal from the occupied territories. 

The last straw that broke the camel’s back was when Tamimi lost her temper and slapped a uniformed, armed Israeli soldier. As expected, this action went viral, leading the Israeli authorities to imprison her for eight months. A prison, even run by one’s country of citizens, might be full of provocations, rights abuses, and infringement, let alone a prison run by an arch-rival. Tamimi and many Palestinians who got under the net of Israel had to endure a series of incarcerations. 

Ironically, imprisonment is one of the most successful ways to achieve fame and knowledge. While someone may be imprisoned as a deterrent, it can inadvertently lead to greater recognition and public sympathy, drawing attention to their cause. The same happened to Tamimi; her imprisonment further elevated her fame and the cause she advocated for. In Nigeria, imprisonment got sympathy from both former presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Olusegun Obasanjo; the former Ghanaian president, Jerry Rawlings, would change the course of history from a death sentence to being a president; and in this regard, no one remained fresh in the memory like Nelson Mandela.

Beyond fame, Tamimi, alongside her mother, who was also incarcerated, completed her high school education. This accomplishment was particularly telling in the mother’s case because she had been unable to complete her education since her marriage. This fact resonates well with Nigerian correctional service centres where many inmates complete online degrees, which, of course, like Tamimi’s Mother, might not achieve the feat without imprisonment. 

Last month, a Turkey legislator slumped in a chamber (and died later in hospital), challenging the president’s seeming “accomplices”. Excerpt from the opposition legislator to Tayyip Erdogan: “You allow ships to go to Israel, and you shamelessly call it trade. … You are Israel’s accomplice”. This reminded me of the Tamimi encounter with Erdogan. 

While Tamimi was visiting Turkey to receive the Handala Courage Award, Erdogan sought an audience with her. In their meeting, he would express how much he loved Palestine, indicating that Turkey would always support the Palestinian people. In response, the iron lady, who never minced words, threw a hammer directly in the face, “How can you say you love us when we have to enter your country with a visa, but Israelis can travel here with no visa?” Erdogan became speechless.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin is a doctoral researcher in chemical engineering at ABU Zaria.

By Aliyu Yakubu Yusuf

The reigning champions and the best national team in the continent, Senegal, had met its waterloo at the hands of the host, Ivory Coast, who must be buoyant, having qualified to the Round of 16 by the skin of their teeth when all around them was doom and gloom. 

The Teranga Lions entered the tournament as the undisputed favourites to record a back-to-back triumph. They justified their billing by becoming the only country to win all three group games, often at a canter. The stage was set for Mane and Co. to dominate the knockout stages. However, the Ivorians read a different script.

The Elephants came into the tournament as the host country with little expectations. Gone are the days of Drogba, Yaya and Kolo Toure, Kalou and Zokora. So, one expected the host to mount a serious title challenge. But no one expected them to lose embarrassingly to Equatorial Guinea either. Ultimately, they qualified into the knockouts as the worst of all the 16 entrants. Few people gave them a chance to overcome the swaggering Senegal. And that’s what they just did.

Such is the cruel nature of winner-takes-all international football. The Ivorians must now be cautiously optimistic about their chances, having surmounted the most difficult of obstacles. Senegal must be ruing what might have been while they lick their wounds.

By Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani

It’s a new down in the history of the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who took over barely six months from May 29, 2023, till date. However, his administration has been awash with many debacles, ranging from bruises in the economic turbulence and pervasive insecurity to dividing citizens along religious and cultural differences. However, the latest is the alleged misappropriation of N585 million in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, led by the former National Woman Leader of his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC).

It is in the public domain that the ministry and the NSIP have been mired in a controversy as the President recently suspended Halima Shehu as National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency over an alleged financial misappropriation to the tune of N44 billion.

However, concerned Nigerians with an ear to the ground alleged a rivalry between the former minister’s camp and the suspended minister’s camp, who vows that “I won’t go alone; you exposed me; I will expose your conspiracy too”. However, in my perspective, if that’s the case, then it’s, after all, a welcome development for the general populace and for the system to be, of course, cleaned up.

In light of the recent events, the President’s and his administration’s integrity have been tested to see what action or inaction the President would take to send a strong message to his cabinet members and all other appointees that it is not business as usual. Would his avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability in the management of the Commonwealth of Nigerians be protected?

On the other hand, would every appointee be treated equally, no matter how close that person is to the corridors of power? Of course, the President, who has the mandate of all Nigerians, has not yet disappointed the general populace by suspending those involved in the allegations and ordering a thorough investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions of the ministry.

The President’s directives have raised hope in Nigerians that it won’t be business as usual, where looters’ cases are swept under the rug. We can boldly say that the last administration’s anti-corruption campaign was ineffective. For instance, in the case of the suspended CBN governor, whose committee was constituted by the former President, its findings fell on deaf ears as if nothing had happened; however, revelations afterwards shocked everyone interested in the well-being of the country’s socio-economic development.

If you look at governance in general, we need to change our approach. The simple fact is that corruption has stagnated the well-being and progress of this country. I feel the only viable way to address these corruption issues is to have a revolutionary transformation of society and improve the context of governance within the framework in which our governance system is predicated. We have to call a spade by its name. Until communities stop celebrating looters and negate the notion that our tribesmen or kinsmen are being witch-hunted, then we wholeheartedly support the government in its bid to eradicate corruption in the system, to which, of course, we will be the major beneficiaries.

Nigerians have a keen interest in every decision the President takes or intends to make regarding the overall interest of the lives of the general population. Certainly, the success of the fight against corruption is intricately tied to the actions of the key actors, not solely reliant on the outpouring of condemnation. The public is the major stockholder in holding the government accountable.

Suppose Tinubu turns over a new leaf in his efforts to stamp out corruption. In that case, Nigerians will stand tall to support his action and term him a foremost man fighting the menace confronting humanity, which retards Nigeria’s development. Despite his stand on the issue, Nigerians must never relent until the fight goes off to a spectacular success.

Honestly, anything short of that can’t be tolerated or accepted, even though it’s early in the day of the new government; there is no excuse. Since they swore to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians, turn our misfortune into fortune, transform our dilapidated infrastructure, and revive our economy, we can put them on the radar to see how they disengage us from all logjam.

I invite all Nigerians to join the challenge of fighting corruption in all its ramifications. After all, the war against corruption can only be decisively won if we all come on board to shun away and expose all corruption within our worldview. I commend his efforts in the recent events, and it’s indeed a patriotic call to support his move for the benefit and betterment of our country.

Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani writes from Galadima Mahmoud Street, Kasuwar Kaji Azare, Bauchi State.

By Haruna Chiroma, PhD

Internationally, nations across the globe are actively exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to address real-world societal challenges spanning diverse sectors of their economies. Nigeria, too, is actively addressing its economic challenges by seeking solutions from various perspectives. In light of the significant role played by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in propelling the real sector of the economy, a dedicated agency, the SMEs Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), was established. SMEDAN aims to promote, regulate, and implement measures to sustain and enhance the performance of SMEs. In today’s dynamic business landscape, integrating AI tools has become essential for SMEs looking to achieve sustainable growth and gain a competitive edge.

This article provides a guide exploring how strategically employing AI tools can enhance various aspects of SME operations, considering the specific economic context and challenges SMEs face in Nigeria. The success and growth of SMEs have been demonstrated to hinge significantly on the innovations they introduce to enhance their products, services, or marketing strategies.

Research has consistently revealed that SMEs incorporating new innovations tend to achieve higher success levels than those that do not. SMEs can use cutting-edge AI tools to infuse innovation into their products, services, and marketing approaches. AI is replacing traditional roles and transforming the conventional methods of performing tasks, thereby creating novel opportunities within the economic landscape.

From a marketing perspective, entrepreneurs now have access to AI tools that streamline the process of creating compelling jingles for advertising products or services. This innovative AI tool simplifies the user experience by prompting them to input the text of the advertisement. Once initiated, the tool automatically generates a captivating and engaging video. Users can choose from various ready-made templates, voices, and gestures to customize the video to their preferences.

Additionally, the tool comes equipped with video editing features, enabling users to fine-tune the video to match their requirements precisely. To overcome language barriers and reach a broader audience, another valuable AI tool for video translation is available. This tool allows users to translate their videos into different languages, expanding their reach to a larger and more diverse pool of potential customers. Together, these AI tools empower entrepreneurs in the marketing realm, providing them with efficient solutions for creating and translating engaging promotional content.

Seamless, an AI-powered platform, caters to the sales and marketing needs of both business-to-business and business-to-customer interactions, facilitating a broader reach for businesses. This innovative platform ensures the acquisition of precise customer email addresses, phone numbers, and direct dials, thereby enhancing the promotion of products and services for SMEs. By enabling businesses to connect with a diverse customer base, Seamless contributes to increased sales and fosters collaborations among various entities in the business landscape. 

In product design, AI brings innovation by offering tools that streamline the design process, enhance creativity, and optimize product performance. From the perspective of design, a new design of a product or packaging can be generated using an AI tool. An AI tool for generating design from the textual description is available; a user will write the text description of the design and prompt the AI tool, and a new design based on the description will automatically be generated. On the other hand, an existing design can be uploaded to the AI tool, and then, automatically, it will be redesigned.

Users can generate as many designs as possible for the best-redesigned item or product. Generative design AI aids in product design by generating multiple iterations based on specified parameters. This enables SMEs to explore diverse design possibilities, optimizing for factors such as cost, materials, and performance. A business logo is significant in business as it gives the first impression to the customers when interacting with the products or services of the SMEs. An appealing business logo can be designed with the AI tool for generating design.    

Many excellent products and services offered by SMEs and startups in Nigeria often lack online visibility, relying primarily on WhatsApp status updates to reach their contacts. This limited visibility poses a challenge, with many SMEs hesitating to invest in costly website or e-commerce development because of restricted funds. Fortunately, a solution has emerged for such SME owners in the form of an AI tool that automatically generates e-commerce sites. This tool provides a variety of pre-designed templates for e-commerce sites, simplifying the process for users. By selecting a desired template and filling in essential information such as product details, business location, and payment methods, users can proceed through the steps until the final page.

Upon clicking “generate,” the e-commerce site is automatically created. Following this, users can download and host the site, making it live online. This straightforward process allows SMEs to easily establish an online presence, overcoming the challenges associated with traditional website development costs.

Chatbots like Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT) can seamlessly integrate into SMEs’ e-commerce websites or social media platforms specifically designed for business promotion. The incorporation of GPT enhances interaction with potential customers by providing virtual assistance.

SMEs can implement virtual assistants on their websites or social media platforms to actively engage customers, respond to product or service inquiries, guide customers through the sales process, provide support, and ultimately enhance overall customer satisfaction. By embedding chatbots within SMEs’ e-commerce sites, these tools can efficiently process orders and offer real-time assistance. This integration ensures a seamless and responsive e-commerce experience for customers, contributing to the overall effectiveness of SMEs’ online presence.

I trust that this article serves as a source of inspiration for many SMEs and startup owners. I hope that it encourages them to explore these strategies to enhance their business ventures and, in turn, expand their operations. By doing so, these entrepreneurs can create additional employment opportunities, fostering increased business activity within the real sector of Nigeria’s economy.   

Haruna Chiroma is a professor of artificial intelligence at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia. He can be reached via freedonchi@yahoo.com.