National

By Abdul Mutallib Muktar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Abdullahi Adamu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Misbahu El-Hamza

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, championed the importance of continuous learning for the newly graduated officers from Senior Course 9 and Junior Course 17. 

He stated this in a motivational address at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College in Gwagwalada, Abuja. 

Representing Deputy Comptroller General Sa’idu Galadima of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), CGC Adeniyi stressed the significance of professionalism, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.

He encouraged the graduates to leverage opportunities in their respective commands, take calculated risks, and be catalysts for positive change. 

ACG Kingsley Egwuh, Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, commended the graduates for their dedication, highlighting their 100% success rate.

Stating various training aspects, including academic standards, proficiency, and weapon handling, ACG Egwuh urged the graduates to infuse purpose into their careers while upholding the service motto, “Justice and Honesty.” 

The Commandant also unveiled ongoing projects, including the replacement of dilapidated furniture in the college hall and the installation of solar panels to enhance facilities. 

Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Comptroller Oluyomi Adebakin, outlined the curriculum’s focus on developing human capacity and improving customs operations.

Adebakin affirmed the commitment to enhancing officers’ skills with a strong moral foundation. 

Special Guest of Honour Senator Isah Echocho, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Customs and Excise, addressed global economic challenges and urged graduates to positively impact society.

He expressed optimism that their adeptness in technological advancements would contribute to Nigeria’s economic advancement. 

In a celebratory gesture, the college hosted a regimental dinner night honouring the graduates of Senior Course 9 and Junior Course 17.

Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong caution to the public regarding the surge in illegal Naira banknotes circulating in the country.

CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, noted the gravity of the issue in a statement released on Friday, particularly highlighting the prevalence of counterfeit higher denominations. 

“The CBN has observed the circulation of counterfeit banknotes, especially higher denominations by some individuals,” warned Mr. Sidi Ali. 

These fake Naira notes are reportedly being used for transactions in food markets and commercial centres across major cities in Nigeria.

The CBN expressed its commitment to collaborating with relevant security and financial agencies to combat the circulation of counterfeit currency. 

“The law provides severe sanctions, including a term of imprisonment of not less than five years, for any person found culpable of counterfeiting Naira notes or any other legal tender in Nigeria,” stated Sidi Ali. 

The public is urged to report suspected cases of counterfeit Naira notes to the nearest police station, CBN branch, or via email at contactcbn@cbn.gov.ng.

In response to the rising concerns, financial institutions and the general public are advised to exercise increased vigilance and adopt precautionary measures to prevent the acceptance and distribution of counterfeit notes.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer (NPRO) of the Nigeria Customs Service, has clinched the esteemed ‘Spokesperson of the Year’ Award bestowed by Spokesperson’s Digest, a division of Image Merchant Public Relations. 

The award ceremony, graced by notable personalities, in Abuja served as a commendation of Maiwada’s exceptional contributions to public relations and steadfast dedication to the Nigeria Customs Service. 

In an exclusive post-award interview with NCBN correspondents, Maiwada credited his success to both personal commitment and the collaborative efforts of his team.

He said, “This accolade not only acknowledges my dedication but also inspires me to elevate my contributions further. My motivation comes from a deep passion for my work and the unwavering support of my dedicated team.”

Maiwada, recognised for his dynamic leadership, underscored the collective endeavours of his team as the driving force behind the prestigious acknowledgment.

His words read, “Today’s recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of my team, serving as a motivating force to strive for excellence.”

Expressing gratitude for the guidance and backing from the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR and his management team, Maiwada emphasised the importance of extracting the utmost value from his work.

In addition to recognising Maiwada’s professional prowess, praise was accorded to the National PRO’s commitment to mentorship.

He urged organisers to consistently acknowledge the dedication and enthusiasm of media practitioners and agencies, stressing the need to uphold a culture of recognising significant contributions in their respective domains. 

Concluding his remarks, Maiwada extended heartfelt appreciation to Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Headquarters Adeogun Alajogun, the representative of the CGC at the event.

He acknowledged Alajogun’s pivotal role as his direct supervisor in the Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Unit.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

An incident that occurred on Sunday night in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has left people in mourning as the community became the unintended target of a military operation, resulting in the loss of at least 85 lives. 

The village was celebrating Maulud, an Islamic event, when the Nigerian Army dropped bombs, sparking widespread outrage. 

The state government, led by Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe, moved swiftly to address the escalating tension. Governor Uba Sani ordered a thorough investigation into the accidental bombing to prevent future occurrences. 

The government’s efforts included a meeting with Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, and heads of security agencies, where the Army explained that the incident occurred during a routine mission against terrorists. 

Despite ongoing search-and-rescue efforts, with injured victims evacuated to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, condemnation poured in from various quarters. 

The Christian Association of Nigeria, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International expressed concern over recurrent erroneous bombings, highlighting that over 425 individuals, including children and women, had been killed in military accidental bombings from September 2017 to 2023. 

The Nigerian Air Force, however, denied involvement, affirming that it had not conducted any operations in Kaduna State in the last 24 hours. 

Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, urged media caution in disseminating unverified reports. 

The departed victims of the attack have been buried according to Islamic tradition.

By Mansur Hassan, PhD

In a shocking turn of events yesterday during a peaceful gathering for Maulud in Kaduna State, Nigeria, the unthinkable unfolded as the Nigerian army allegedly dropped bombs on the assembled crowd, resulting in a devastating loss of innocent lives.

What makes this tragedy even more horrifying is the apparent repetition of the attack, casting serious doubts on the claims of a mere mistake.The sequence of events, where the army reportedly first unleashed destruction and then returned within a short span to inflict more harm, raises profound questions about the true nature of this incident.

Can such a grave error be repeated in the same location, with devastating consequences, all within a span of 30 minutes? The assertion that this was a mistake demands thorough scrutiny and a comprehensive investigation.

It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes swift and decisive action to probe this incident thoroughly. The loss of lives and the trauma inflicted upon those who survived demand justice, accountability, and reassurance for the affected community. The international community should also pay close attention to ensure that the investigation is transparent, impartial, and free from any influence.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for reforms and increased accountability within the military and security forces. The government must ensure that those responsible for this appalling act, if found guilty, face the full extent of the law. Only through a transparent and unbiased investigation can trust be restored in the institutions meant to safeguard the welfare and security of the people.

In these trying times, our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We stand united in condemning this senseless violence and urge the government to prioritize justice, transparency, and accountability in the pursuit of truth regarding the Kaduna State tragedy.

Dr. Mansur Hassan is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano and can be reached via mhassan@yumsuk.edu.ng

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The federal government has introduced two disbursement programmes, the Presidential Conditional Grant and the Presidential Palliative Loan, to inject a total of N150 billion into the economy. 

According to a statement from the Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the programmes are strategically designed to support businesses grappling with the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal implemented on June 1. 

Under the Presidential Conditional Grant Programme, the government plans to disburse a grant sum of N50,000.00 to nanobusinesses across all 774 local government areas in the country.

Collaborating with various stakeholders, including state and local governments, federal legislators, federal ministers, banks, and others, the programme aims to provide relief to the most grassroots-level enterprises.

Eligible nanobusiness owners are required to furnish proof of residence or business address in their local government area, along with personal and bank account details, for identity verification. 

The government has also earmarked N75 billion for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) and an additional N75 billion specifically for manufacturers.

The loan facilities, offered at a single-digit interest rate of 9 percent per year, aim to stimulate growth and address financial challenges faced by businesses. 

MSMEs can access loans up to N1 million with a three-year repayment period, while manufacturers can secure up to N1 billion for working capital with repayment terms of one year for working capital or five years for machinery and equipment.

The application process for these loans involves submission through a dedicated portal, with access facilitated through participating banks.

Applicants are required to meet their respective banks’ risk assessment criteria. 

Noting its commitment to economic development and empowerment, the Federal Government believes these initiatives will foster entrepreneurship, spur job creation, and contribute to the overall economic recovery of the nation.

Interested parties can find more information and apply on the dedicated website for the programmes.