Opinion

By Jamilu Magaji Ambursa

Barely two years after a new political era emerged in Nigeria, Kebbi State has witnessed a remarkable transformation under Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu). His administration has focused on infrastructural development and prioritised groundbreaking educational reforms, social empowerment and security enhancements. These pivotal changes have redefined the landscape of Kebbi State, positioning it as a model for progressive governance in the country.

Dr. Nasir Idris was declared the winner of the 2023 Kebbi State gubernatorial election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on April 17, 2023. Before becoming governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris had a distinguished career as a teacher, unionist and politician. He served as the National President of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). As governor, Kauran Gwandu has focused on various development projects, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, social empowerment, security and agriculture.

To start with, there is no gainsaying that one of the cornerstones of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been the extensive focus on infrastructural development. For the first time, Birnin Kebbi has taken its shape as the State capital, witnessing massive unprecedented infrastructural reforms. Major investments have been made in road networks, healthcare facilities, and public utilities, significantly improving access and quality of life for residents.

Notable projects include rehabilitating key highways connecting rural and satellite communities to urban centres, facilitating trade and boosting local economies. Additionally, constructing a modern Motor Park and completing an ultra-modern secretariat would stimulate local economies and provide a conducive atmosphere and access to state-of-the-art facilities for civil servants.

Meanwhile, as a seasoned educationist and labour leader, Kauran Gwandu has recognized the critical role of education in driving sustainable development. His administration has focused on upgrading educational infrastructure, providing training for teachers, and ensuring that schools are equipped with modern learning resources. Steps have been taken to enhance access to quality education for girls and disadvantaged youth, thereby striving for inclusivity. These measures aim to cultivate a new generation of skilled individuals capable of contributing to Kebbi State’s development.

It is evident that the focus on educational reforms has not only boosted enrollment figures but has also significantly enhanced student performance across various educational levels. Kauran Gwandu’s commitment to education showcases his belief that an educated population is crucial for the socio-economic progress of Kebbi State.

The emphasis on training and re-training teachers, a new law raising the retirement age for educators from 60 to 65 years and extending the service limit from 35 to 40 years, along with the recruitment of 2000 new teachers and the awarding of contracts for the construction of four mega schools, underscores this commitment.

Furthermore, another unique aspect of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been his ability to maintain a harmonious relationship with past governors of Kebbi State. This collaborative spirit has fostered an environment of continuity and shared vision for development. The Governor has been able to leverage the experiences and insights on the forebears while working towards achieving common goals that benefit the entire state. This collaborative governance model has helped streamline various developmental projects and create a unified front for the progress of Kebbi State.

To corroborate this, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alh. Sa’ad Abubakar III in his address at the maiden edition of Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio Public Lecture, disclosed that the Sultanate has conferred on Kauran Gwandu the title of Gwarzon Daular Usmaniyya (Knight of the Caliphate) based on recognition of merit, selfless service to humanity and clear demonstration of ability to considerably embraced unity of purpose, fairness, equity and transparency in governance as preached by Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio. The Sultan commended Kauran Gwandu for uniting with all his predecessors for the common interest of the state, involving religious and traditional leaders in governance through consultations, and operating an all-inclusive government.

In the area of social welfare, the administration has placed a strong emphasis on the welfare of Kebbi State citizens. The Governor has initiated various social programs aimed at improving living conditions, particularly for marginalized groups and vulnerable populations. Through microfinance initiatives, skills acquisition programs, and direct aid, many individuals have been empowered to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, thereby reducing poverty levels in the state. The commitment to social welfare reflects a holistic approach to governance, ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all.

The healthcare and agricultural sectors have also received the needed impulse. The administration provided medical treatment to patients with mental health problems and related illnesses, renovated general hospitals, and increased entitlements of doctors and nurses. The distribution of palliatives, fertilizers, and solar-powered water pumps to farmers to improve agricultural productivity is also afresh to all discerning individual in the State. These are indelible marks for Kebbi State in the last 18 months. 

In an era where security concerns pose significant challenges across Nigeria, Kauran Gwandu has prioritised the safety of Kebbi State residents. The Governor has taken proactive steps to address the security challenges in the state, particularly in the southern parts. His approach has been both curative and proactive, focusing on strengthening security measures and addressing the root causes of insecurity.

This administration has worked closely with security agencies to implement strategies that address crime and communal conflicts, fostering a safer environment in the State. The unprecedented support given to security agencies, enhanced policing initiatives, and regular security forums has heightened vigilance and encouraged public participation in maintaining peace and order. As a result, the state has seen a reduction in criminal activities, allowing citizens to go about their daily lives with greater peace of mind.

To conclude, let me reiterate that Kauran Gwandu’s transformative leadership has laid a solid foundation for the advancement of Kebbi State. As his administration continues to work towards building a better future for all, Kebbi State stands as a testament to the significant impact of dedicated and visionary governance.

Kauran Gwandu has demonstrated his inclusivity as a driver of a mass socio-political movement and architect of modern-day Kebbi State. He turned the state into an infrastructure development site and remodelled and redefined the political landscape. Therefore, it behoves every well-meaning citizen to support his administration in its determination to deliver democratic dividends to all in the State.

Jamilu Magaji, a public affairs analyst in Birnin Kebbi, can be reached via mjmagaji@gmail.com.

By Muhammad Isah Zng

Sleeping is essential to the human body. It helps the body function well in the office, school, and daily activities. That’s why experts in health care emphasise that people should get at least six to seven hours of sleep daily.

Sleep improves physical health, helping humans build bones and muscles and strengthen the immune system. Although it decreases the lifespan of healthy adults, it also helps children grow up with the utmost energy.  

Therefore, sleeping enhances cognitive function. It plays a crucial role in brain function and development, helping the brain process information and get enough rest to function well. Consequently, a lack of sleep can impact cognitive function, leading to difficulties reading, understanding, or making good decisions. 

Furthermore, enough sleep helps the human body have a stronger immune system, which produces cytokines that fight infections and inflammation. Because of these cytokines, people who sleep well have fewer diseases. Therefore, chronic sleep deprivation can weaken a human’s immune system, making them more susceptible to illness. 

Sleep improves memory, and the human body protects the body from minor diseases and helps people perform well in the office, school, and other activities. 

Muhammad Isah Zng wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Rukayya Sani Ashir

In an age characterised by digital disruption, Abubakar Sadiq Umar has established himself as a fascinating entrepreneur. Sadiq’s professional experience stretches across borders and industries, and he has built a name for himself as a man who delivers his ambition, the latest being his mentorship platform, AltMentor. His endeavour not only changes the intersection between technology and mentorship but also serves a larger purpose: advancing Africa’s place in the global technology story.

The Seed of Innovation: Envestlab’s Rise

For Abubakar Sadiq, creativity started with Envestlab, a venture aimed at nurturing the tech ecosystem of Northern Nigeria. EnvestLab’s annual tech conferences and vigorous hackathon competitions have become important landmarks for entrepreneurs. These conferences go beyond the superficial trappings of networking; they are fertile grounds where ideas meet execution.

With the aid of Envestlab, Sadiq gives young inventors chances to come together, showcase their ideas, and obtain sufficient resources to kickstart their projects. The hackathons have become a trademark of the initiative, where select novel business ideas are recognised and nurtured.

Sadiq’s philosophy is reflected in the glare of creativity and competition. He has always maintained that Africa does not receive technology; it provides it. This idea inspired the creation of EnvestLab.

A Marketing Virtuoso

Before his entrepreneurial journey, Abubakar Sadiq nurtured his craft through positions that placed him at the forefront of technology. As the Head of Digital Marketing, Northflix experienced his flair for engaging with the audience. He was able to implement the company’s brand further through campaigns based on data analysis and the telling of stories, especially in the rather crowded cyberspace. 

Charting a Global Career in Blockchain

Furthering his range of skills, his time at Green Life Energy (GLE), a UK-based renewable energy blockchain start-up, introduced him to decentralised technologies. Given this, as Project Manager and Director of Partnerships, Sadiq attempted to bridge the gaps in the adoption of Blockchain and devise methods for using the still-young technology.

Abubakar Sadiq stood out among thousands of attendees when he was named Binance Blockchain Week Dubai 2022 Star of the Day. This award recognised his rising stature in the global technological arena and his prowess in linking new inventions with practical use.

Sadiq’s career progressed in tandem with Gameness, a Turkish company involved in esports that focused on the blockchain industry, which was once known as NerfIT. In Gameness, as the Head of Partnerships, Sadiq strategically aligned the company’s blockchain offerings to be tempered and adapted to the rapidly changing needs of the eSports environment. These experiences improved his skill set, equipping him with a nuanced understanding of product innovation and market positioning, which are fundamental to successful entrepreneurial ventures.

AltMentor: The Next Frontier in Mentorship

Sadiq believes that’s why his latest start-up, AltMentor, is timely and ambitious. With a focus on commencement in the first quarter of 2025, the platform seeks a different approach to mentorship. AltMentor connects mentors with mentees through a fee-based model, creating a sustainable ecosystem where knowledge sharing becomes accessible and rewarding.

To Sadiq, AltMentor is not merely a business but a movement. At its core is the belief that structured, personalised, and goal-oriented mentorship can transform lives. “Everyone deserves access to the wisdom of those who have walked the path before them,” he says, articulating a vision that is as inclusive as it is ambitious.

The platform’s goal of reaching a $100 million valuation within 24 months is backed by its robust scalability and global appeal. AltMentor aims to connect millions of users, from young professionals seeking guidance to seasoned experts looking to impart their knowledge. The dual benefit of empowering mentors while equipping mentees positions the platform as a potential game-changer in Africa’s education and professional development landscape.

The Broader Vision

Sadiq’s work with AltMentor and Envestlab reflects a broader narrative: the recalibration of Africa’s place in global innovation. By focusing on mentorship and entrepreneurship, he addresses two critical gaps that often hinder the continent’s growth: access to knowledge and the support needed to scale ideas.

His dream is larger than those associated with the platforms he has developed. Sadiq sees Africa as the next big tech powerhouse, not for replicating others’ inventions but for creating original ones. By nurturing the culture of mentorship and supporting entrepreneurs, he is building a system where the next generation will be empowered to prosper.

A Legacy in the Making

Sadiq has an inspiring story. His tale depicts the promise and growth potential of AltMentor’s upcoming launch. His belief in innovation and collaboration is unwavering, as we can see from his journey of supporting startups at Envestlab, the birth of AltMentor, and everything in between. 

It is as transformative as it is enticing investors, mentors, and mentees to join the AltMentor venture. He has been vocal about the platform’s purpose, and considering his previous milestones, it’s safe to say that the venture aims to make profits while solving critical problems.

Abubakar Sadiq Umar is a leader with a vision, and in his envisioned world, technology not only solves problems but also creates many opportunities. He is the person who has dreams but, even more importantly, acts. He demonstrated how the continent of Africa and the world at large can innovate and develop.

Rukayya Sani Ashir writes from Kano and can be reached via email at saniashirrukayya@gmail.com.

By Bilal Muhammad Bello (BMB)

The Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has made commendable strides in supporting education. Among these initiatives is the foreign scholarship program for postgraduate studies, a legacy dating back to the second tenure of former Governor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. While this policy has benefited many, addressing the growing need to prioritise local scholarships for Kano State students studying in Nigerian institutions is crucial.

Since the 2019/2020 academic year, there has been a noticeable gap in the distribution of local scholarships in Kano State. Regrettably, since Governor Yusuf assumed office, no official scholarships have been disbursed to students in tertiary institutions nationwide. 

While it is laudable that the state government recently paid the fees of students affected by tuition hikes at federal universities such as Bayero University Kano, Federal University Dutse, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, and the University of Maiduguri, this initiative has excluded students from state universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Many of these students face severe financial hardships, and some even drop out due to a lack of support.

With utmost respect, I urge His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to reconsider the state’s scholarship policy. The government must prioritise local students struggling to fund their education amidst the country’s economic challenges. Local scholarships would provide a lifeline to these students, ensuring they complete their education and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

Similarly, states like Katsina, Jigawa, Borno, and Kaduna support students with local scholarships every year for those studying at various institutions in the country. These local scholarships provided by respective state governments help alleviate the challenges students face on campuses.

During your 2019 and 2023 campaigns, Sir, you pledged to prioritise education. While the foreign scholarship program for postgraduate studies is admirable, the pressing needs of local students studying on Nigerian campuses cannot be overlooked. I respectfully call on His Excellency to direct the State Scholarship Board to open its portal and ensure that students in Kano benefit from the state government’s scholarship program.

Investing in local scholarships is not just a fulfilment of campaign promises but a commitment to building a brighter future for Kano State. Students are the backbone of any society, and supporting their education is an investment in the prosperity of the state. Governor Yusuf, this is an opportunity to cement your legacy as a leader who prioritises education for all Kano students at home and abroad.

Bilal Muhammad Bello Department of Mass Communication Bayero University, Kano.

By Saifullahi Attahir

In 1984, during the second term of former US President Bill Clinton as Governor of Arkansas, he was alarmed by a damning report on the decline in educational standards in the state. He, therefore, constituted a committee headed by his wife, Hillary Clinton, to go around the state and come up with resolutions on how to rescue the State Educational sector.

He introduced robust proposals, including more time for academic work, mobilising more funds, increasing the school year, special opportunities for gifted children, a maximum class size of twenty pupils up to third grade, and more recruitment of Mathematics, History, and Science teachers.

The most controversial proposal required all teachers and administrators to take and pass the National Teacher Examination. Even in the US, this proposal was met with backlash from interest groups and misinformed teachers that the governor was trying to hijack their means of livelihood. But in reality, there is no way that a reform in education can be successfully achieved without looking at the guardians of that knowledge.

 Teachers are the backbone of any school. No matter how beautiful the school building, how few students per class, or how good the curriculum, if the person imparting the knowledge is not well-prepared, problems will continue to arise.

In President Bill Clinton’s case, he recommended that teachers who failed be given free tuition to take regular courses and be able to take the test as many times as possible until certified to be able to teach.

This same scenario occurred during the tenure of two visionary governors in northern Nigeria. Former Jigawa State Governor Alhaji Sule Lamido used the same strategy to improve the state’s education, which was then on life support. I can count the number of primary school teachers I knew who were allowed to return to the College of Education (COE) Gumel to obtain an NCE Certificate fully funded by the state.

In the case of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir Elrufa’i, we can remember the giant effort he tried to impose to rescue the educational sector in Kaduna. This included a massive purge of school teachers who could not pass their Aptitude test. The former governor was met with a heavy force of resentment and protest, including a mass media campaign in which he was simply trying to retrench workers from their source of livelihood.

These three cases were almost similar, although different States, different personalities, at different times, and nearly different approaches. But history will judge…

Saifullahi Attahir wrote via saifullahiattahir93@gmail.com.

By Khadijat Ogido 

Educating girls is one of the most powerful tools for creating a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous society. Girls are provided with diverse basic knowledge, skills, and training contributing to national development. An educated child can only grow through a literate woman who has a greater chance of breaking the cycle of social vices by passing good knowledge to her daughter.

There is an adage that says, “Educate a man, you educate an individual, but educate a woman, you educate a Nation.”This adage summarises the essence of education to the girl child.

Investing in girls’ education transforms communities, countries, and the world. Girls who receive an education are less likely to marry young and more likely to lead healthy, productive lives. They earn higher incomes, participate in the decisions that most affect them, and build better futures for themselves and their families.

Girls’ education strengthens economies and reduces inequality. It contributes to more stable, resilient societies that allow all individuals – including boys and men –to fulfil their potential.

However, education for girls is about more than having access to school. It’s also about girls feeling safe in classrooms and supported in the subjects and careers they pursue—including those in which they are often underrepresented.

A girl is described as a female child between infancy and early adulthood. During this period of the development of the girl child, she is under the custody and supervision of adults who may be her parents or guardians and siblings who are older and more mature than she is.

According to the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Research has shown that millions of girls do not have access to school despite concerted efforts to promote the cause. Okeke, Nzewi, and Njoku (2008) identified child labour, poverty and lack of sponsorship, the quest for wealth, bereavement, truancy, broken homes, and engagement of children as househelps as factors that clog the wheel of children’s access to education.

According to UNESCO estimates, 129 million girls worldwide are out of school, including 32 million of primary school age, 30 million of lower-secondary school age, and 67 million of upper-secondary school age. In countries affected by conflict, girls are more than twice as likely to be out of school as girls living in non-affected countries.

Most factors that militate against the girl-child access to education are socio-cultural. Many countries on the African continent rank among the poorest in the world. The ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemics, over-crowding in cities, tribal warfare and despotic governments have contributed to the degeneration of the beautiful African land into a human rights catastrophe. At the centre of the devastating situation is the girl-child. 

The girl-children appear to be the most vulnerable and most undervalued members of the society. In a region where many are struggling to get enough food and to stay alive, remain out of reach of the various violent rebel armies, and care for those stricken with various diseases, a basic education, especially for girl children, is low on the list of priorities. The right to education, which is a fundamental human right, is frequently denied to girls in some African countries.

The then United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, stated that in Africa when families have to choose between educating a girl and a boy due to limited resources, the boy is always selected to attend school. 

In Africa, many girls are prevented from getting the education they are entitled to because families often send their daughters to work at a young age to earn additional income beyond the subsistence level and finance the education of their sons.

 It has been reported in BBC News (2006) that the African patriarchal societal viewpoint favours boys over girls because boys maintain the family lineage. Additional reasons why girls do not have adequate access to education in Africa include the fact that many have to stay home to nurse relatives with HIV/AIDS. Their mothers were uneducated, which is another reason they feel their daughters do not need education. Furthermore, some families do not believe in the education of girls. 

Many women who made it in life today also contributed immensely to the country’s growth and served as role models to the girl-child. Women like Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, Margaret Ekpo, Grace Alele Williams, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Flora Nwanpa, Onyeka Onwenu, etc. These women couldn’t have achieved it without a good education and were given the opportunity because it’s their right.

Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist, said, “Let us remember: one book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.”

Educating the girl child is not just about attending school to acquire knowledge. It also serves as a weapon and a guide on how to shape her life and to break the barrier of a girl child not having the right to education.

Michelle Obama said, “When women are educated, their countries become stronger and more prosperous. Investing in a girl child’s education is not just a moral imperative; it is an essential strategy for achieving sustainable development and a better world for everyone.

Khadijat Ogido wrote via ogidokhadijat82@gmail.com.

By Ishaka Mohammed

Sometime in 2023, I wrote about a PhD holder who couldn’t get a lecturing job because of his third-class bachelor’s degree. Neither his postgraduate qualifications and a significant number of journal articles nor his vast experience in education could override his weak first degree, thanks to supposed standards set by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

A few years after obtaining a third-class Bachelor of Science in Geography, this man started teaching in a government secondary school and, with his diligence, experience, and additional qualification (a postgraduate diploma in education: PGDE), he became a vice-principal. 

He later obtained a postgraduate diploma (PDE) as part of the requirements for a master’s degree (due to his weak first degree), successfully completed an MSc, and was a short while into his PhD program when he lost his job. 

It was a big test, especially for a family man, but he faced everything head-on and acquired his PhD in 2020.

Dr Ali Ameh Danbaba had always wanted to be a university lecturer, so he submitted applications despite having heard of the obstacle (his third-class bachelor’s degree) before him. Two universities had almost employed him when they noticed the class of his bachelor’s degree. I saw the situation as a case of someone being denied admission to tertiary institutions because of their poor primary school results.

However, Dr Ali Ameh Danbaba is perseverance-personified. At the time of his last rejection, he was already doing another bachelor’s degree (though as a part-time student). He spent four more academic sessions and obtained a first-class Bachelor of Science in Geography.

One amazing aspect of his doggedness was the uncertainty of his financial sources. Despite living with his wife and children and being mostly unemployed during his PhD program, Doctor (as he’s fondly called) persisted, majorly freelancing with his academic prowess.

Outside his academic life, he’s famous for his joviality and frequent calls to prayers. His humility could be easily mistaken for timidity. Despite his qualifications and age (with his first child already at university), he is never condescending. He takes my relationship with him like that between age-mates.

I was away from town and on the phone with him when he broke the heart-warming news of his employment to me. This job was his target for years. I’m delighted that he finally got it.

Success has multiple meanings, one of which is the magnitude of one’s wealth, but the meaning I often refer to is the achievement of one’s goal(s). Dr Ali Ameh Danbaba wanted to become a university lecturer, and now he is. I see him as a successful man, and, among other things, I’ve learned much from his life, especially his perseverance and humility.

Until his latest employment, he was the Chairman of the District Education Committee, Kaduna North Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Millions of Africans have emigrated to Europe, America, and other parts of the world. This emigration is driven by both push and pull factors — economic challenges, political instability, conflicts, and the pursuit of better job opportunities and more accessible social services.

Despite often being stringent in their immigration policies, receiving countries have found ways to benefit from this influx. They tap into the labour, expertise, and talent of these immigrants. Rather than solely viewing immigration as a burden, many of these nations recognize the potential gains from incorporating skilled and unskilled labour into their economies.

Several West African countries have reassessed and severed their military ties with France in recent years. Notable examples include Mali in 2022, Burkina Faso in January 2023, Niger Republic in 2024, Chad in November 2024, Senegal in December 2024, and Ivory Coast in December 2024. These moves signal a significant shift in regional dynamics as these nations seek to assert greater sovereignty and explore alternative partnerships. Some have terminated defence agreements outright, while others are exploring new international collaborations.

International relations experts see these developments as pivotal. However, they caution that these countries might merely replace one foreign power with another without concrete plans for mutual benefits. For instance, in Niger Republic, the Russian presence, along with the mercenary group Wagner, has not brought substantial change. Wagner’s operations in several African nations, such as Mali, have drawn criticism, with human rights groups accusing its forces of severe abuses.

Reuters reported that: “French President Emmanuel Macron recently expressed frustration over the perceived lack of acknowledgement from certain African nations regarding France’s military interventions in the Sahel region. Speaking at a foreign policy conference with French ambassadors, Macron claimed that some African leaders had “rewritten history” concerning France’s role in combating Islamist militants since 2013. He argued that these states might have lost their sovereignty without French military support.

However, officials from countries like Chad and Senegal have pushed back, asserting that their decisions to expel French troops were made independently and in the best interest of their nations. Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah criticized Macron’s remarks as disrespectful, while Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko emphasized that Senegal’s decision was made without any negotiation with France.”

For Africa to progress, its leaders must define the continent’s needs, recognize its current position, and set a clear direction for the future. Africa must move beyond the outdated narrative that external forces are the primary obstacles to its development. The global landscape has evolved, and Africa must engage with international partners based on mutual respect and benefit.

For example, France and Nigeria have an excellent trade relationship, with Nigeria serving as France’s leading trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa. So, if country A sees the French as a bottleneck, you don’t expect Nigeria to do so. 

If countries like France, China, Russia, or the United States want to invest in Africa, they must do so with clear, mutually beneficial agreements. African resources should be processed on African soil, ensuring the continent gains more than raw material exports. Africa needs technology transfer, expertise, and infrastructure development to foster sustainable growth.

Africa must adopt a global perspective and interact with nations based on their strengths in areas like United Nations status, military power, industrial capacity, African diasporas, trade volumes, and financial influence. Only through strategic, well-negotiated partnerships can Africa harness its full potential and assert its rightful place in the global arena.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

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 Musab Isah Mafara, PhD

As you regularly use social media, it’s important to understand that many individuals post misguided or controversial opinions, images, and videos with specific intentions. They seek attention and engagement, aiming to drive traffic and, subsequently, revenue to their profiles.

Social media monetisation has become an attainable goal for all. In pursuing fame and financial gain, some users compromise their dignity and reputation–assuming these were valued in the first place–by posting provocative content meant to ignite heated debates.

For example, people might post movie reviews/clip without captions, prompting viewers to ask for the movie’s name, thereby increasing comment counts. Others might upload videos criticizing a religious group, knowing it will provoke members of that group to share the video, thus boosting its reach and view count. The opposition might watch to refute these criticisms, further amplifying the content.

And then you have the annoying ones who share harmful content they claim not to agree with, under the guise of correcting misinformation. You also have celebrities and influencers who post videos of themselves doing or saying things specifically designed to get people talking about them.

Unfortunately, even some ‘Shaikhs’–or their handlers–have been drawn into this trend of attention-seeking posts aimed at drawing crowds and potentially monetising in the long run. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with scholars monetising their social media presence–indeed, it could offer financial independence and protection from undue influence by sects, benefactors, or governments–they must tread carefully.

Managing a page, especially if done personally by an Islamic scholar, poses the risk of succumbing to vanity or showmanship. Although only Allah truly knows one’s intentions, people can sometimes infer motives from the content of posts, which might damage a scholar’s credibility among followers or, worse, lead to ‘Riya‘ (showing off for praise). May Allah guide our intentions to be sincere and protect us from ‘Riya‘.

There is nothing wrong with using social media to gain followers and earn from what you share on your profile, but the content should align with what is permissible (halal). Although halal content might not ‘sell’ well online, as Muslims, we cannot justify the means by the ends and post whatever we like just to make it.

Focus on sharing religious teachings, educational materials, skills, recipes, analysis of issues, and any useful knowledge relevant to people’s daily lives. Share what will benefit people in their everyday interactions or what will bring them closer to Allah. Your actions could lead to one of these outcomes:

1. A reward from Allah alone.

2. Financial rewards from platforms like Facebook, TikTok, or others.

3. Both a reward from Allah and financial compensation.

4. Neither a reward nor financial benefit, if the intention is not right and you couldn’t meet the requirements of the platform, but likely no sin incurred.

However, if you promote impermissible (haram) content, you must understand the consequences. You’ll be accountable for the sin not just for yourself but for everyone who encounters that content through you, directly or indirectly, until the end of time. The Prophet (SAW) said:

ومن سنَّ في الإسلام سنَّة سيئة فعليه وزرها ووزر من عمل بها من بعده من غير أن ينقص من أوزارهم شيء

“And whoever introduces a bad practice in Islam that is followed after him, there is upon him the sin of it and the sin of those who act upon it after him, without that diminishing their sins in any way.”

Don’t be a means to a sinful act.

Furthermore, even if you’re not directly sharing harmful content, you can help reduce its spread by not engaging with it. Unfollow pages that offer nothing but this kind of material. When necessary, address issues on your own wall without linking back to the harmful content or commenting on the page where it was posted. Additionally, hide or unfollow accounts that thrive on harmful materials. Often, it only takes a click of the 3 dots against a post and choosing ‘Not Interested.’