Lifestyle

By Ofemile Blessing Afeghese

Infantile immunisation is the process of making babies or toddlers resistant or immune to certain infections or diseases. It is vaccinating babies and young children to protect their health from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Immunisation gives infants the immunity to fight diseases that can cause long-term health issues or even death.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2019, Vaccines are products usually given in childhood to protect against serious, often deadly diseases. By stimulating the body’s natural defences, they prepare the body to fight the disease faster and more effectively.

Infantile immunisation is important because infants are vulnerable to infections, and their immune systems are not fully developed. Immunisation provides them with protection during this critical period of their lives. Vaccines are given to babies to protect them against serious illnesses like polio, which can cause paralysis; measles, which can cause brain swelling and blindness; whooping cough (pertussis); and tetanus, which can cause painful muscle contractions and difficulty eating and breathing, especially in newborns.

Abdullah Sani, a 39-year-old survivor of polio, said, “Growing up, I realised I couldn’t do what children my age could do with their legs. I wanted to run, jump, play with my friends and do everything my peers were doing, but I couldn’t. I felt terrible.

At the age of three, doctors told my parents that I would never walk again. My mum cried profusely as she resolved with my dad to fight the disease that had disabled me. I was taken to many hospitals and traditional healers in search of a cure, but the search was fruitless as there was no cure for polio. The disease took my ability to walk.”

World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in 2024 that vaccines and immunisation currently prevent 3.5 million to 5 million deaths yearly from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles globally.

In Nigeria, the National Programme on Immunization (NPI) in the year 2014 stated that routine immunisation of children in Nigeria is carried out using the following vaccines: BCG ( Bacilli Calmette Guerin) at birth or as soon as possible after birth; OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) at birth and 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; DPT (Diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; Hepatitis B at birth, 6 and 14 weeks; Measles at 9 months of age; Yellow Fever at 9 months of age and Vitamin A at 9 months and 15 months of age.

Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health states that a child is considered fully vaccinated if they have received a BCG vaccination against tuberculosis; three doses of DPT to prevent diphtheria; pertussis (whooping cough); tetanus and at least three doses of polio vaccine; and one dose of measles vaccine. All these vaccinations should be received for five visits during the first year of life, including the doses delivered at birth. According to this schedule, children between 12–23 months would have completed their immunisations and be fully immunised.

According to UNICEF, in 2019, infantile immunisation was one of the most effective ways to protect babies from preventable diseases. Health experts say that vaccinating your child not only safeguards their health but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.

 Vaccines are safe and effective and have played a crucial role in reducing and eradicating dangerous diseases. By following the recommended immunisation schedule, parents can protect their babies from the serious risks of infectious diseases, giving them the best possible start in life.

Ofemile Blessing Afeghese wrote from Bayero University, Kano.

 By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen

In today’s hyper-connected world, our smartphones have become more than just communication devices; they are lifelines that connect us to information, social networks, and essential services. However, this dependence has given rise to a modern psychological phenomenon known as nomophobia—the fear of losing mobile connectivity. This article explores the definition, symptoms, causes, and potential solutions to this increasingly common issue.

Nomophobia, a term derived from “no mobile phone phobia,” was coined in a 2010 study by the UK-based Post Office. It describes the anxiety and fear experienced when an individual is unable to access their mobile phone or is disconnected from the internet. The condition can manifest in various forms, including feelings of panic, anxiety, and distress when separated from one’s phone, whether due to battery failure, loss, or lack of signal.

Nomophobia can manifest through several symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Common indicators include panic, physical distress, compulsive checking of devices, irritability, and social withdrawal.

 Several factors contribute to the development of nomophobia, including social connectivity pressures, work expectations, psychological tendencies, and cultural norms that emphasise constant connectivity. The condition can adversely impact personal relationships, professional performance, and well-being.

The impact of nomophobia extends beyond personal anxiety; it can affect professional performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Studies have shown that individuals with nomophobia may experience decreased productivity, difficulty concentrating, and strained relationships due to constant device distraction.

Furthermore, the omnipresence of mobile devices can lead to “phubbing,” a term for ignoring someone in favour of a mobile device. This behaviour can damage personal relationships and reduce the quality of face-to-face interactions.

Addressing nomophobia requires self-awareness, behavioural changes, and, in some cases, professional intervention. Individuals can implement strategies to manage nomophobia, such as setting device boundaries, practising mindfulness, engaging in digital detoxes, and seeking professional help if necessary. Understanding and addressing nomophobia is essential for fostering a healthier relationship with technology and enhancing mental well-being.

Nomophobia is a growing concern in our increasingly connected world, affecting individuals’ mental health and well-being. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and potential solutions is crucial for fostering a balanced relationship with technology. 

By acknowledging our dependency on mobile devices and taking proactive steps to manage our usage, we can mitigate the negative impacts of nomophobia and cultivate a healthier, more mindful approach to connectivity. 

Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Mass Communication Department, Bayero University, Kano.

By Onumoh Abdulwaheed 

Northern Nigeria is facing an increasingly severe malnutrition crisis, with recent data revealing a stark escalation in cases. UNICEF reports that Nigeria has the second-highest burden of stunted children globally, with a 32% prevalence rate among children under five. An estimated 2 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), yet only 20% receive treatment.

According to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the situation has worsened dramatically in 2024. Dr. Sanjana Tirima reports alarming increases across northern Nigeria. In Maiduguri, northeast Nigeria, MSF’s inpatient therapeutic feeding centre admitted 1,250 severely malnourished children with complications in April 2024, double the figure from April 2023. The centre has had to expand to 350 beds, far exceeding its initial 200-bed capacity.

Similar trends are seen elsewhere. In Bauchi state, MSF’s facility at Kafin Madaki Hospital saw a 188% increase in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023 in the admissions of severely malnourished children. Northwestern states like Zamfara, Kano, and Sokoto have reported increases in admissions to inpatient centres ranging from 20% to 100%.

Dr Christos Christou, MSF’s International President, previously highlighted the multiple challenges facing northern Nigeria, including “overwhelming levels of malnutrition, frequent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, lack of medical facilities and personnel, and continuous insecurity.” The crisis is further exacerbated by widespread flooding, which has devastated farmlands and displaced millions.

Despite the escalating crisis, the humanitarian response remains inadequate. In May, the United Nations and Nigerian authorities issued an urgent appeal for US$306.4 million to address nutrition needs in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. However, MSF notes this is insufficient as it doesn’t cover other affected parts of northern Nigeria.

Dr Tirima emphasises the situation’s urgency: “Everyone needs to step in to save lives and allow the children of northern Nigeria to grow free from malnutrition and its disastrous long-term, if not fatal, consequences.” She calls for immediate action to diagnose and treat malnourished children and engage in sustained, long-term initiatives to address the root causes of the crisis.

MSF and other organisations stress the need for a comprehensive and urgent response as the situation worsens. “We can’t keep repeating these catastrophic scenarios year after year,” Dr. Tirima warns. “What will it take to make everyone take notice and act?” The crisis in northern Nigeria remains a critical humanitarian concern requiring immediate and sustained attention from national and international stakeholders.

Onumoh Abdulwaheed wrote via onumohabdulwaheed@gmail.com.

By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen

Water is vital for our health, influencing everything from digestion to metabolism. While most people focus on how much water they drink, the temperature of that water can also have significant effects on our health. Water temperatureis measured using two primary scales: Celsius and Fahrenheit. Celsius is the most commonly used scale globally, while Fahrenheit is used primarily in the United States.

Cold water refers to water that is lower than room temperature. The average room temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit), so water below this range is considered cold. In Celsius, cold water is defined as 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, while Fahrenheit is between 32 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. This article explores the benefits and potential drawbacks of consuming cold water.

Benefits of Drinking Cold Water:

1. Enhances Metabolic Rate:

Drinking cold water can boost your metabolic rate, aiding in burning more calories. The human body burns calories when maintaining our core temperature; therefore, when we drink cold water, the body expends energy to warm the cold water to the core temperature, thereby burning calories.

2. Improves Digestion:

Cold water after a meal can aid digestion. It can contract stomach muscles, speeding digestion and facilitating nutrient absorption.

3. Reduces Inflammation:

Cold water can help reduce inflammation. Post-exercise, drinking cold water may soothe sore muscles and mitigate inflammation.

4. Aids Hydration:

Many people find cold water more satisfying, which may encourage higher water intake and better daily hydration.

Effects of Drinking Cold Water:

1. May Disrupt Digestion:

While cold water can be beneficial after a meal, consuming it during meals may interfere with digestion by solidifying fats, making them harder to digest.

2. Can Cause Headaches: 

Drinking cold water rapidly can trigger headaches or migraines as the cold temperature may constrict blood vessels in the head.

3. May Lead to Colds:

Cold water does not cause colds, but it might weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

4. Can Aggravate Gallstones:

Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder.

For those with gallstones, cold water may cause gallbladder contractions, potentially intensifying symptoms.

In conclusion, while drinking cold water offers several benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of how and when you consume it. Opt for room temperature or warm water during meals to aid digestion, and enjoy cold water as a refreshing option throughout the day.

Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Sumayyah Auwal Ishaq

Some restaurant and relaxation centre owners in Kaduna complained on Sunday of low patronage, blaming the country’s economic situation for their misfortune. Other food and drink sellers told The Daily Reality in Kaduna that they have been experiencing low patronage since January 2024.

“Business has been very dull since the beginning of the year. We are operating virtually at a loss. Our customers now prefer to stay home because of the economic situation,’’ said Alhaji Umar Sani, an eatery owner at Alkali Road, Kaduna.

Another operator, Mrs Aisha Ibrahim, also blamed the dullness in business activities on the economic situation in the country. “It appears that this government is doing everything possible to make sure that our businesses collapse”. She urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the quick recovery of the economy.

Mrs Hadiza Abubakar, another food seller at the Kasuwan Bacci Market, said she was optimistic that things would be better, but she’s running into so much debt.

“We have some customers who don’t have money to pay for their food and have been coming for years. It is not good to deny food to these customers, so we must them on credit. And the problem is that it takes longer now due to the economic condition.”

A customer who simply identified himself as Alhaji Ibrahim Mai Sauki urged Nigerians to pray for the government so that the nation would overcome its challenges.

When The Daily Reality correspondent visited some popular restaurants in the Kaduna metropolis, such as Barnawa, Unguwar Rimi, and Doka, at 2 p.m., peak business activity time in the afternoon, only a few vehicles were parked, while a good number of chairs were empty. Only a handful of people were seen eating and drinking.

By Jerry Ayuba Yavo

Depression is not just a regular aspect of human experience but a serious medical condition. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, depression is a common yet serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that impact how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. 

Some symptoms include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or pessimism, irritability, frustration, restlessness, and, in severe cases, thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempts.

In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that an estimated 3.8% of the global population experiences depression, with 5% of adults affected (4% among men and 6% among women) and 5.7% of adults over the age of 60. 

Approximately 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and alarmingly, depression is about 50% more common in women than in men. This disparity is primarily attributed to biological factors, including hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, and other factors.

Despite its prevalence, many people with depression may be unaware of their condition. A woman in Nigeria shared her experience with a reporter, revealing how she had struggled with mood swings since childhood. Her parents believed she was facing spiritual attacks, isolating her from her siblings, who were considered “normal.” 

As she grew older, she turned to drugs and alcohol to cope, eventually becoming addicted. It wasn’t until much later that she realised she had been suffering from depression since childhood. After marriage, she also experienced post-natal depression, which worsened her case.

In recent years, treatments such as medication and psychotherapy have proven effective for most people with depression. However, over 75% of individuals in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment due to several barriers, including limited investment in mental health care, a lack of trained healthcare providers, and the social stigma surrounding mental illness.

Both men and women must assess their mental well-being and seek professional help if they experience symptoms of depression. Addressing mental health openly and without stigma is essential for a healthier society.

Jerry Ayuba Yavo wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, via jerryjnr419@gmail.com.

By Abbas Aliyu Libata 

Every individual possesses a unique talent, a natural gift that often takes time to uncover. For some, it is an early realisation, while for others, like myself, it takes a period of self-reflection and careful observation. 

My journey of discovering my unique talent has been a process of exploration filled with curiosity, self-doubt, and clarity. In the world of tailoring and fashion design, I found my calling, a profession that brings me joy andfuels my creativity.

I remember watching people around me, often amazed by how effortlessly they executed imaginative and creative tasks. Their work, whether art, music, or other forms of expression, seemed to flow naturally as if it were second nature to them. I couldn’t help but wonder: What was my talent? Was I overlooking something? This uncertainty drove me to study myself and observe how I interacted with different activities, hoping to pinpoint what made me feel most alive.

The journey was challenging. I explored various activities, searching for one that resonated with me. Gradually, I realised my attraction to tailoring and fashion design through my appreciation of fabrics and patterns and my vision of new designs. It took time to recognise this as my true talent.

The turning point came when I decided to immerse myself in design fully. While tailoring was my primary profession, designing offered something more—a unique joy. I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfilment whenever I created new designs, sketched ideas, or experimented with fabrics. The joy I experienced wasn’t just about the monetary rewards that came with the profession but also about the creative satisfaction that designing brought. I had found my talent.

According to career coach Laura Garnett, talent discovery often involves a combination of self-awareness and persistence. She explains, “Your talent lies at the intersection of what you enjoy doing and what you do well. Often, it takes time and patience to uncover it because you need to experiment with different activities to see what resonates.” My experience perfectly reflects this. The more I designed, the more I realised that this was something I was good at, bringing me immense happiness.

Research from psychologists like Dr Angela Duckworth suggests that perseverance and passion, what she calls “grit”, are vital to uncovering and developing talent. I can relate to this concept because I had to persist in my search for my unique talent, even when I doubted myself.

Looking back, I see how important it was for me to go through self-discovery. Finding my talent in tailoring and fashion design has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has given me a sense of purpose and fulfilment that I might not have found had I not taken the time to explore, reflect, and experiment. Now, every design I create reflects my joy and passion for my profession, a profession that has allowed me to express my unique talent in ways I never imagined.

I came across a friend who disclosed that he believes unique talent exists in people but has yet to discover his. 

Through this journey, I have realised that discovering one’s unique talent requires patience, observation, and a willingness to embrace the things that bring us joy, even if they aren’t immediately apparent. It was fashion design, a craft that connects my passion and creativity to something I can share with the world.

Self-observation and reflection are among the most important steps in uncovering your talent. Take time to observe how you react to different activities. Notice what excites you, where you lose track of time, or what makes you feel fulfilled. Keeping a journal to record these moments can help reveal patterns and reveal your natural abilities.

Experimenting with different fields is another critical part of the process. Your talent might be in an area you haven’t yet explored. Trying out new hobbies, engaging in unfamiliar projects, or learning a new skill can help you discover interests and strengths you didn’t know you had. Don’t limit yourself to what seems comfortable or traditional; sometimes, talent lies in unexpected places.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of seeking feedback from others. Often, those around you can provide insight into your strengths and talents that you might overlook. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for their perspectives on what you do well, where you shine, or what they think makes you unique. Their observations can offer valuable clues in your self-discovery journey.

It’s also important to follow your passion rather than just chasing money. While financial rewards are essential, true talent often lies in what brings you personal satisfaction. You may not immediately see financial gain from pursuing your passion, but the joy it brings is a crucial indicator of where your unique abilities might be found.

Be prepared to exercise patience and persistence in the process of talent discovery. It is not always an immediate realisation and can take time, especially if you are exploring new fields or refining your skills. Even when you feel stuck, continue pursuing different avenues and allow yourself the time to grow and evolve.

Learning from others is also a valuable strategy. Studying experts in areas that interest you, attending workshops, or reading books by individuals who have mastered their craft can offer insights into how to cultivate your talent. Their experiences and advice can serve as a guide for your journey.

Lastly, once you have an idea of your talent, align it with a career path. When your professional life reflects your passion, you are more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated. Combining your talent with a career can lead to personal and professional success, allowing you to channel your unique abilities into something that brings value to yourself and others.

Abbas Aliyu Libata wrote from the Mass Communication Department at Bayero University, Kano, via elabbas434@gmail.com.

By Rabi Ummi Umar,

Nature bestows unique characteristics upon creatures of all species. One distinctive feature for humans, particularly women, is menstruation, otherwise known as periods. This menstrual cycle often comes with an enormous amount of pain and discomfort. 

Hence, I get aggravated when people, particularly men, downplay or dismiss the pain associated with periods. It has become all too common nowadays, and I often wonder, “What is their thought process behind such disregard?” This disregard is part of what we have come to know as period stigma—the social, cultural, and emotional shame or embarrassment associated with menstruation.

Women typically experience menstruation for two to seven days a month. Still, they also face a range of challenges, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), sadness, menstrual pain, depression, and post-menstrual depression. For these reasons, we deserve sympathy and support.

Menstrual cramps are painful sensations that affect many individuals before and during their menstrual period. The pain typically targets the lower abdomen and lower back. Women often experience additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhoea, and more. Depending on the individual, menstrual cramps may last for at least three days or even longer.

Reports have shown that approximately 5% to 15% of individuals experience period pain so severe that it impacts their daily activities. According to Cleveland Clinic, the figure could be higher due to underreported or unreported cases.

There are instances where I have witnessed men being insensitive towards the pain women experience during their periods. Sometimes, if the situation warrants it, I share my opinion; otherwise, my best option is to watch helplessly or move on.

Women are paradoxically both fragile and incredibly strong creatures, enduring immense physical and emotional challenges every month. This never-ending cycle, which results in the loss of an appreciable amount of blood, makes it particularly hurtful when someone dismisses or undermines the experiences we go through.

A genuine suggestion is that when it is that time of the month for your partner, sister, mother, or loved one, show your support with a thoughtful gesture. Be present for them, even if you cannot fully comprehend their experience. Make them feel seen and cared for. Do your research, take the necessary steps, and understand what works best for them. It makes a bigger difference than you might think.

Recently, there was a heated discussion on X (formerly Twitter) regarding PCOS—polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries—that left me stunned. Although I cannot recall the exact comment, it disregarded the severity of the condition and painted women as unhealthy, much like what happens with periods.

One piece of advice from that social media conversation resonated with me: “Review your partner’s Twitter to gain insight into their thoughts before committing to a relationship.” I cannot stress enough how important this advice is. It underscores the need to have people in our lives who will be there for us, especially in matters such as menstruation and PCOS, which are dictated by nature.

Imagine being with someone who does not understand or invalidates your experiences. I urge women to prioritise getting to know their partners well, particularly their emotional intelligence, before committing to a relationship.

Men should also show support during menstruation. Instead of making insensitive comments, they can educate themselves.

Learn about menstrual health and its effects to be a thoughtful brother, husband, father, or friend. Offer emotional support and empathy, help with household chores and errands if needed, and encourage open conversations to end the stigma associated with periods.

By doing so and being more considerate, men can create a more comfortable and supportive environment for women. The world can be kinder to women—we deserve it!

Rabi Ummi Umar is an intern at PRNigeria and a student at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin. She can be reached via rabiumar058@gmail.com.

By Zainab Haruna Abba

Social media has become an integral part of teenagers’ lives, but its impact on their well-being and mental health is a topic of concern.

Social media allows teenagers to connect with friends and family, share their thoughts and experiences, and access information and resources. It can also provide a platform for self-expression and creativity. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change.

The impact of social media on teenagers can be significant. It’s not just a case of losing sleep and getting distracted during the day; social media can have far-reaching adverse effects on a teen’s mental health.

As the adolescent brain is still developing, it’s more vulnerable to time online. And since teens can sometimes struggle to self-regulate their screen time, their exposure and the risk of harm increases. As a result, teens’ social media use often correlates with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, envy and loneliness.

However, parents can take steps to encourage responsible use of social media and limit its negative effects. Setting reasonable limits on social media use is crucial. Parents should talk to their teens about avoiding interference with important activities such as sleep, meals, or homework. Establishing a bedtime routine that avoids electronic media use and keeping cellphones and tablets out of bedrooms is also essential.

Monitoring teens’ social media accounts regularly is vital. Parents should let their teens know they will check their accounts and follow through. Explaining what’s not okay to share or do online, such as gossiping, spreading rumours, bullying, or damaging someone’s reputation, is also important.

Encouraging face-to-face contact with friends is particularly important for teens who are vulnerable to social anxiety disorder. Parents should talk openly about social media and its potential impact, sharing their experiences and habits and asking teens how they use it and how it makes them feel.

Reminding teens that social media is full of unrealistic images can help mitigate negative effects. Parents can also help protect their teens by setting guidelines and teaching responsible use.

An estimated 4.9 billion people worldwide are expected to use social media in 2023. For teens who grow up with technology, those digital platforms are woven into the fabric of their lives.

“Social media is here to stay,” said Mary Alvord, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Maryland and adjunct professor at George Washington University and a member of the APA panel. That doesn’t mean we have to accept its dangers, however. “Just as we decide when kids are old enough to drive, and we teach them to be good drivers, we can establish guidelines and teach children to use social media safely,” Alvord said.

By Faruk Ak Waziri

I have always enjoyed learning new words, a hobby I developed while reading short stories and classic novels in junior secondary school. To better understand unfamiliar words, I began enriching my vocabulary, leading to a close friendship with the Oxford Dictionary.

Years of checking the dictionary have, apart from broadening the scope of my vocabulary, expedited my conversance with the basis behind the idea of a single word having several usages—a part of English language learning that wasn’t taught to me on a deep scope at school probably because it is deemed ‘advanced’ and therefore only sparsely incorporated into the Nigerian English curriculum for secondary school level. 

But my romantic attachment to the Oxford dictionary at that stage proved vital by equipping me with the knowledge I could have ended up missing, like the majority of my colleagues, because I had discovered therein that explanations regarding why a single word may have different meanings are attributed mainly to how people who lived within a particular period used it in context. This means a word may no longer have the meaning it used to entail a century ago. I found this idea of words evolving to adopt new meanings based on the context to which people living in a certain period apply them. 

My curiosity to learn more about this fascinating word metamorphosis led me to an English term called Etymology. Etymology is the history and study that trace the origin and development of a linguistic form, such as a word, to its earliest recorded usage in the language where it first appeared. Stumbling upon this term felt like putting the final jig in a puzzle. 

I finally learned that a word or term only translates to the meaning people consistently ascribe to it. And if, over time,such a term starts to be forced into use to convey a sense different from its original definition, the prevalent acceptance of this newfound usage gradually integrates into another connotation of the term, often suppressing the predominant standard meaning. 

When this happens, the new meaning of a word is said to have been absorbed into mainstream usage. Sometimes, this shift in meaning results from deliberate distortion by a select group of people. For example, the Hausa word “Aboki”, which traditionally means “friend” in English, has been twisted to carry a derogatory implication in southern parts of this country. 

This change often results from a willingness to accept one’s uninformed intuition about a word rather than its actual meaning. However, in most cases, distortion and bastardisation stem from a lack of understanding of the original meaning. This last point, which is the main purpose of this post, highlights the ongoing misrepresentation of the terms “alpha” and “alpha man” within the Arewa Facebook community as a case study. 

But before that, let’s briefly stroll through the history of what was once the world’s predominant usage. 

Originating from animal social dynamics, ‘Alpha’ is a word associated with the leader in a group of wolves known collectively as a pack. In a pack, the alpha is the fiercest, strongest, and most dominant male wolf. Embodying attributes such as bravery and those described by the aforementioned adjectives makes the alpha the standout leader of the pack. Metaphorically, “alpha” describes a male human possessing characteristics similar to the leader of a pack of wolves. He is referred to as an alpha male when a person excels above his peers, is assertive, and is hardly sentimental.

The term “alpha man” was continuously used to reference positive qualities in a man, such as leadership, charisma, ambition, confidence, decisiveness, and composure, up until the late 20th century, when it started to witness a semantic shift. The once positive connotations of the term began to be twisted to mirror the traits of toxic masculinity. This distortion continued through media portrayals, books, and online platforms, changing the concept into the laughing stock of what it once meant. Over two years, this distorted usage of the term graced the northern Nigeria online media space, especially the Arewa Facebook community, where it has since become a common address among male users who pridefully identify with the tag. 

The average Arewa Facebook alpha man propagates and would even argue that “alphanci”,; the ideal behaviour of an alpha man is a function of how stiff and emotionally closed off he tends to be mainly in his relationship with a loving partner—a wife or girlfriend. An alpha man shouldn’t chase a girl he likes and must never be explicit about his affections. However, as they believe, that must never be the case with the partner—she has to make it obvious her obsession with him, how much she loves and cares for him, because as enshrined in the alpanchi handbook, “man is always the prize”, and so the lady must contend with the burden of making the relationship work by constantly striving to maker her alpha man happy, lest she ends up losing him—her ‘very precious prize’. 

Today, especially within the Arewa Facebook community, the term “Alpha man” is no longer a tag for the confident, ambitious man—it is now a shorthand for someone overly aggressive, controlling, and egotistical. Instead of focusing on qualities like leadership, empathy, and care, the word is now a function of how domineering a man is to his spouse or girlfriend, a measure of how he treats her with dismissive nonchalance. 

In TV shows like The Originals and The Vampire Diaries, we’ve seen how Klaus Mikaelson, a hybrid possessing both the fiery vampire side and the ruthless werewolf gene, makes sacrifices for love. Despite being an alpha, Klaus listens to Camille and follows her guidance. For Caroline, he shows mercy on multiple occasions—something he rarely does.

In Twilight, Jacob Black did everything he could to win Isabella’s heart, embracing his role as an alpha. But now, the so-called “Arewa Facebook alpha man” does everything to the contrary. He treats his partner with disdain, wrapping toxic masculinity in the guise of being an alpha. The concept that was once premised on strength, leadership, and care now twists to an exaggerated caricature of masculinity, where aggression and control are celebrated. 

What is called “alphanci” has become more like masked misogyny. Alphopi or Alphawa, while hiding under the guise of a serious, no-nonsense persona, their actions towards women and even their stance within their circles only reveal a subtler form of suppressed misogyny. 

To the average Arewa Facebook alpha, you’re either an alpha or a simp—that’s the extent of their black-and-white thinking. They push for “alphanci” in a cult-like manner, and disagreeing with them means risking ridicule and condemnation from their ingroup. This behaviour has further mainstreamed the distortion of what was once a positive term. Now, when you hear “alpha,” it’s hard not to associate it with their toxic behaviour, even though most of them don’t even grasp the word’s true meaning. This is the effect of a concept that’s been relentlessly bastardised. Of Arewa Facebook community alpha men and the culture of mainstreamed bastardisation. 

And can be reached via farukakwaziri019@gmail.com or as Faruk Ak Waziri on Facebook.