National

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Daily Reality earlier reported that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) had included 20 Nigerian words in its latest update. Below are their definitions.

1. 419 (noun): Fraud (now usually perpetrated on the internet) involving requests for advance payment in return for a substantial share of a large amount of money, which ultimately is never given. Frequently as a modifier, as in 419 emails, 419 scams, etc.

2. abi (adverb): Used as a sentence adverb: clearly, obviously; of course. Also used interrogatively, at the end of a statement, to prompt agreement, approval, or confirmation: ‘isn’t that so?’, ‘am I not correct?’, etc.

3. adire (adjective, noun): Made of a type of fabric produced mainly in south-western Nigeria, featuring patterns obtained by applying indigo or other dyes using various resist-dyeing techniques; a type of fabric produced mainly in south-western Nigeria, featuring patterns obtained by applying indigo or other dyes using various resist-dyeing techniques. Also: the method of producing this fabric.

4. agbero (noun): Originally: a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout, typically at car parks and bus stops, collecting money from passengers and drivers and ushering passengers onto vehicles. Later also (now chiefly): a person (usually a boy or young man), who obtains money or wins influence by engaging in criminal activity, such as extortion, theft, and drug dealing, often as a member of a gang.

5. area boy (noun): A person (usually a boy or young man), who obtains money or influence by engaging in criminal activity, such as extortion, theft, and drug dealing, often as a member of a street gang. Also: a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout or enforcer.

6. cross-carpet: (verb): Of a politician: to move from one political party to another.

7. cross-carpeting (noun): The action or practice of a politician moving from one political party to another. Also: an instance of this.

8. eba (noun): A kind of dough made with boiled cassava meal, typically shaped into balls, forming a staple food in parts of West Africa.

9. Edo (noun; adjective):  A member of a people inhabiting the ancient Benin Kingdom in present-day southern Nigeria; of or relating to the language of the Edo, a member of the Benue-Congo branch of the Niger-Congo language family; designating this language.

10. gele (noun): A West African head-tie originally worn by Yoruba women, typically consisting of a stiff piece of fabric printed with designs in bright colours, which can be tied or wrapped around the head to form various shapes.

11. jand (noun; verb): A foreign country; a country other than one’s own; to travel overseas, esp. in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.

12. janded (adjective): Designating a person who has travelled overseas; of, relating to, or characteristic of such a person. Also: characteristic of or coming from a country other than one’s own; foreign.

13. japa (noun; verb): The emigration of Nigerians to other countries (esp. those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity; to leave Nigeria for another country (esp. one in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity. Also more generally: to escape, to flee. 

14. Kanuri (noun; adjective): A member of a group of African peoples principally inhabiting north-eastern Nigeria, with some populations in Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Sudan; of or relating to the language of the Kanuri.

15. kobo (noun): Also in extended use: a very small amount (of money); usually in negative constructions, as in not a kobo, not worth a kobo, etc.

16. Naija (adjective; noun): Of, belonging to, or relating to Nigeria or Nigerians; a native or inhabitant of Nigeria, or a person of Nigerian descent.

17. suya (noun): In Nigerian cookery: a dish consisting of thinly sliced pieces of spiced meat grilled or roasted on a skewer, usually sold by street vendors and eaten as a snack.

18. yahoo (noun): Fraud perpetrated on the internet, esp. involving requests for advance payment for services or products that are ultimately never provided. Usually reduplicated, as yahoo yahoo.

19. yahoo boy (noun): A person (esp. a man) who commits fraud on the internet.

20. yarn dust (verb): to talk nonsense.

The history, pronunciation, example sentences and other details about each word are available at https://www.oed.com.

By Uzair Adam 

The China Development Bank (CDB) has approved a €245 million ($254.76 million) loan to fund the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria.  

In a statement released on its official website on Tuesday, the bank confirmed that the financial package is intended to ensure the smooth continuation of the railway’s construction. 

The statement read, “China Development Bank has recently granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) to the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria, providing financial support for the smooth progress of the project.”  

The 203-kilometre standard-gauge railway line will connect Kano, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, to the federal capital, Abuja. 

Once completed, the railway will enhance regional connectivity, offering residents a safer and more efficient mode of transportation.  

In addition to improving mobility, the project is expected to drive economic growth by promoting industrial development along its corridor. 

It will also generate significant employment opportunities during its construction and subsequent operations.  

The Kano-Kaduna railway is recognized as a key cooperation project under the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Construction is being executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, with financing from the CDB.  

Previously, the project was slated for funding by the China Exim Bank, which later withdrew its financial commitment. The CDB subsequently stepped in as the new financier.  

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating closely with the Nigerian government to ensure timely disbursement of funds and effective management of subsequent project phases.  

“Going forward, [the CDB] will closely coordinate with Nigerian partners to ensure the smooth disbursement of subsequent loans and effective post-loan management,” the statement added.  

President Bola Tinubu had earlier assured Nigerians that the broader Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway project would be completed satisfactorily. 

The Federal Government has allocated N44.4 billion this year to complete the Abuja-Kaduna Railway project, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, and other rail infrastructure initiatives.  

Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, is expected in Abuja on Wednesday for an official visit. 

During his stay, Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, will engage in discussions to further strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.

By Ado Sunusi Sabongida

The recent appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked a wave of excitement across the education sector. This significant development underscores Prof. Shehu’s unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.

A Track Record of Excellence

Prof. Shehu’s impressive credentials speak volumes about his capabilities and commitment to educational reform. His previous role as Special Adviser on Social Reorientation Programs during the Isah Yuguda administration in Bauchi State showcased his ability to navigate complex educational landscapes effectively. Furthermore, his leadership as the National Coordinator of the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) Nigeria office and Secretary of the Nigeria Islamic Council under Sultan Abubakar Sa’ad (III) highlight his influence and dedication to promoting educational initiatives.

Visionary Leadership for a Brighter Future

As the pioneer Director of the Center for Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Shehu introduced a range of innovative developments that enhanced the institution’s academic environment. His leadership style is characterized by a strong commitment to mentoring and fostering educational growth.

In his capacity as Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University Sumaila, he has consistently sought to develop both academic and non-academic staff through seminars and symposia aimed at boosting their intellectual capacities.

Moreover, his recent appointment as a Shura Council member by Kano State Governor Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf further attests to his tireless efforts in community development and his dedication to improving educational outcomes.

High Expectations as Prof. Shehu Takes Charge

With Prof. Shehu at the helm of NERDC, we can anticipate a new era marked by innovation and progress within the education sector. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for educational advancement, positions him as an ideal candidate to spearhead meaningful change. “Prof. Shehu will deliver more than expectations in the commission.”

A Bright Future Ahead for Education in Nigeria

The appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as Executive Secretary of NERDC is indeed a welcome development for Nigeria’s education sector. With his proven track record and steadfast commitment to educational excellence, Prof. Shehu is well-equipped to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of education in the country. As Nigeria continues its pursuit of educational advancement, Prof. Shehu’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for education in Nigeria.

Sabongida writes from Kano State.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has published its latest updates, featuring a collection of 20 words and phrases from Nigeria, Dr Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a consultant on Nigerian English for the OED, announced.

The Daily Reality can confirm that the dictionary has defined the words and phrases. However, while the majority of them (agbero, eba, japa, suya, etc.) were first published in December 2024, others (edo, kanuri, kobo, and yarn) were only updated with new meanings.

Dr Ugwuanyi, who played a significant role in the update, revealed that, in addition to drafting most of the words, he also provided their pronunciations. “When you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my voice bringing these words to life,” he shared in a celebratory post on LinkedIn.

The newly added words reflect diverse aspects of Nigerian life, from everyday slang to cultural expressions. The list includes:

1. 419

2. abi

3. adire

4. agbero

5. area boy

6. cross-carpet

7. cross-carpeting

8. eba

9. Edo

10. gele

11. jand (noun, verb)

12. janded (adjective)

13. japa (noun, verb)

14. Kanuri

15. kobo

16. Naija

17. suya

18. yahoo

19. yahoo boy

20. yarn dust

Dr Ugwuanyi thanked Danica Salazar, the OED’s World Englishes editor, and the entire editorial team and encouraged Nigerians to share their favourite words from the list and suggest new ones for future updates.

Recall that the dictionary added 29 Nigerian words and phrases in 2020, and CNN reported that those were in addition to the at least 57 others already in the dictionary.

The Daily Reality is still compiling the definitions of the latest additions for easier access.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The leader of the Yoruba Self-Determination Group, Professor Banji Akintoye, has reiterated that the group will not back down from its pursuit of creating the Yoruba nation.

According to Akintoye, around 60 million Yoruba people, including those residing at home and abroad, support his cause for establishing the Yoruba nation as an independent country.

“We will not retreat. We must leave Nigeria, or our country will face serious problems.

“Don’t you hear our voices in the streets? The Yoruba nation is moving forward. There is no turning back.

“We are referring to the Yoruba people in Nigeria, who number about 55 to 60 million. We want to establish our own country. Nigeria will cease to exist if we establish our own nation. But if others want to continue to remain as Nigeria, that is fine,” he added.

By Ishaka Mohamed

As revealed in a statement released on Monday, January 6, 2025, the officers were dismissed for various offences bordering on fraudulent activities and misconduct.

According to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, the dismissals were necessary for the Commission to enforce integrity. “Every modicum of allegation against any staff of the Commission would always be investigated.

The core values of the Commission would always be held in optimal regard at all times,” part of the statement reads.

The Commission further warned the public of the activities of impersonators and blackmailers using the name of its Executive Chairman to extort money from high-profile suspects being investigated by the EFCC. 

Two members of an alleged syndicate, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, were recently arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja, for allegedly contacting a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mr Mohammed Bello-Kaka, and demanding $1 million from him for “Olukoyede to give him soft landing” on a non-existing investigation. 

The Commission reiterated that such characters are still on the loose, seeking victims.

By Anas Abbas

BUA Refinery and petrochemicals has dismissed a report claiming that its 200,000 barrels/day refinery is 90% complete, describing it as misleading and inaccurate.

In a statement, The Daily Reality, gathered that, the company urged the public to disregard these misleading claims, emphasizing that they did not originate from BUA company.

The company confirmed that construction is progressing steadily and remains on track to meet its delivery timelines in collaboration with partners.

The Akwa Ibom refinery project is seen as a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s refining capacity and energy security.

In addition to the refinery, BUA is also advancing other energy initiatives, including a mini-LNG plant and new hybrid power plants across the country, aimed at increasing its existing captive power generation capacity of over 1,000 megawatts.

BUA also, encouraged the public to verify information through its official channels to avoid being misled by false reports. The company reiterated its commitment to transparency and excellence, noting that it has successfully completed over 12 major industrial projects worth more than $3.5 billion in the last decade.

As the Akwa Ibom project progresses, BUA expressed appreciation for the publics’ interest and support, affirming its dedication to building a robust industrial and manufacturing base for a self-reliant Nigeria.

By Uzair Adam

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for extending an open invitation to him to tour the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, describing it as disrespectful.

Reacting through his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo expressed displeasure over the lack of a formal invitation, stating that such an approach undermined the dignity of his office.

“Is that the right way to invite a former president of the country? Who says Baba has even seen the statement or read the news? It is a total disrespect for the office of the former president.

“Ask the NNPCL, as of January 2, have they written to him? Is there any official letter addressed to him, inviting him to the refinery? It is an absolute insult, and the former president cannot dignify such with a response,” Akinyemi stated.

The NNPCL had extended the invitation through its spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, following an interview Obasanjo granted on Channels Television, where he highlighted failed efforts to privatize Nigeria’s oil refineries during his presidency.

Obasanjo recounted that in his tenure, Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, had assembled a team to manage the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries through a $750 million public-private partnership deal.

However, his successor, Musa Yar’Adua, rejected the proposal, believing that the NNPC could manage the refineries despite clear evidence of inefficiency.

He remarked, “When I was president, I wanted to do something about the three refineries we have: Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

“Aliko got a team together after I asked Shell to come and run it for us, but Shell declined. They wouldn’t take equity or even run it.

“Eventually, Aliko’s team paid $750m to manage the refineries. Unfortunately, my successor refunded their money, claiming the NNPC could run them. But we knew they couldn’t.”

Obasanjo lamented the mismanagement and wastage of over $2 billion on the refineries since 2007, with little to no improvement.

While acknowledging Dangote’s competence in managing his privately owned refinery, Obasanjo expressed doubts about the government’s ability to achieve similar efficiency.

In defense, NNPCL spokesperson Femi Soneye insisted that the refineries were operational and undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation to meet global standards.

“We extend an open invitation to former President Obasanjo to tour the rehabilitated refineries and witness firsthand the progress made under the new NNPC Limited,” Soneye said.

The news of the reopening of the Warri refinery has sparked skepticism among Nigerians, with many questioning the effectiveness of government-led initiatives in the oil sector.

By Uzair Adam

The Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed that nine people were killed and four others injured following a violent clash between communities in the state on Friday.

The incident, which occurred in Gululu village, Miga Local Government Area, reportedly began when a group of individuals suspected to be Fulani broke into a shop and stole hibiscus and other provisions.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Adam, the villagers (Hausawa) traced the suspects’ footprints to a Fulani settlement in Yankunama village, Jahun Local Government Area.

Upon confrontation, the Fulani community allegedly attacked the villagers with bows and arrows, injuring four people.

The altercation escalated as the villagers retaliated, burning houses in various locations across Miga and Jahun LGAs.

Adam stated that police teams from the Miga and Jahun Divisions intervened to restore peace, recovering nine bodies from the scene.

The victims’ remains were taken to hospitals in Jahun and Miga, where medical personnel confirmed the deaths.

The state Commissioner of Police, A.T. Abdullahi, along with other senior officers, visited the affected areas to assess the situation and ensure calm.

Community leaders, including district heads, vigilantes, and representatives of Miyetti Allah, held an emergency meeting to address the crisis and prevent further violence.

SP Shi’isu Adam assured the public that the situation is now under control and that an investigation is ongoing to apprehend those responsible.

By Ishaka Mohamed

Edge Research Services Ltd has stopped accepting job applications just within 24 hours after advertising vacancies for data collectors across Nigeria.

The firm had called for applications on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and set January 20 as the deadline. However, an update by its LinkedIn handle in the early hours of January 4 declared the window closed after receiving over 2,000 applications.

Part of the statement reads: “WOW! We’re overwhelmed with gratitude! A huge thank you to everyone who commented, shared, and applied! We received over 2,000 applications in just 24 hours!”

After expressing gratitude and surprise, the firm stated its resolve to review only the applications received. “Due to this incredible response, we’re closing the job advert earlier than planned. Our recruitment team will now focus on reviewing applications and selecting the best fit…”

Edge Research Services Ltd, headquartered in Lagos and with a field office in Kano, Nigeria, is a data collection, research, and evaluation firm that offers qualitative and quantitative research services in sub-Saharan Africa.

It’s noteworthy that this is not the first time Nigerians’ interest in jobs has shocked an employer. A recent example was when the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) application portal glitched just a few hours after calling for applications. “Due to unprecedented traffic to the NNPC Ltd. career page from applicants applying for vacancies, the site is currently experiencing slow load times,” the company said in a statement.