Opinion

During his time as Chairman of Hadejia Local Government, Bala T.O was not just a leader; he was a transformative figure. His leadership was characterized by a keen focus on the needs of his people. Under his stewardship, Hadejia saw numerous developmental strides in infrastructure, education, health, and local governance. His unique leadership style, which blended accessibility, transparency, and pragmatism, earned him the admiration of his constituents and political peers alike.

Honourable Bala Umar, widely known as Bala T.O, is a name that resonates deeply within the political landscape of Jigawa State. From his impactful tenure as the Chairman of Hadejia Local Government to his current position as the Special Adviser on Special Duties to Governor Malam Umar Namadi, Bala T.O has continually demonstrated unwavering commitment to public service and governance.

But beyond his political prowess, Bala T.O’s legacy is also tied to his deep-rooted understanding of governance. His work was driven by the belief that leadership should not just be about authority but about empowering the people, fostering unity, and prioritizing the well-being of all. He was particularly known for his efforts in building bridges between various community groups, ensuring inclusivity, and addressing the challenges faced by the common people of Hadejia.

In his current role as Special Adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State, Bala T.O continues to serve with the same fervor and dedication that defined his earlier career. The transition from a local government chairman to a Special Adviser is not merely a change in title, but a testament to his capacity for leadership at both local and state levels. His wealth of experience and extensive knowledge of Jigawa’s grassroots realities has positioned him as an invaluable asset to the state government.

As Special Adviser on Special Duties, Bala T.O now plays a crucial role in shaping policies and ensuring the successful implementation of programs that affect not only the people of Hadejia but all residents of Jigawa State. His position enables him to influence strategic decisions that directly impact sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure development, and social welfare – areas critical to the continued growth and prosperity of the state.

One of the standout qualities of Bala T.O is his dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in the development process. He has remained a staunch advocate for the inclusion of marginalized communities and continues to push for policies that promote equal opportunities for all. His approach to governance is not about political gain, but about creating sustainable change that will benefit future generations.

Furthermore, his relationship with Governor Malam Umar Namadi (Danmodi) is one built on mutual respect and a shared vision for the future of Jigawa State. As a trusted adviser, Bala T.O plays an instrumental role in providing valuable insights, guiding the governor in making decisions that reflect the needs of the people. His counsel, honed through years of hands-on leadership experience, is a driving force behind many of the initiatives currently underway in the state.

As we look to the future, it is clear that Honourable Bala Umar (Bala T.O) will continue to be a key figure in the political and developmental trajectory of Jigawa State. His continued service, first as Chairman of Hadejia Local Government and now as Special Adviser, demonstrates the power of dedicated leadership and the impact one person can have on a community and beyond.

In conclusion, Bala T.O’s journey from local government leadership to becoming the Special Adviser to the Governor serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the power of hard work, integrity, and service. His story is a testament to the belief that true leadership is not defined by position, but by the positive change one can bring to the lives of others.

By Dahiru Kasimu Adamu

Mass Communication is a broad field with different areas which include journalism, broadcasting, public relations, digital Marketing, film and television production, advertisement, strategic communication and many more others.

Thus, Mass Communication as a profession is said to be a great field which is like the proverbial Hausa cow with more than ten benifits, however, the students from this field often restrict themselves to broadcast media especially during their ‘student industrial training.

On 13 February 2025, during MACOSA student orientation organized by Mass Communication students association (MACOSA) at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, a lecturer and SIWES co-ordinator from Mass Communication Department, Mr. AbdulHakim AbdulGaniyu emphasized the need for students to explore other Mass Communication channels while they undergo their mandatory industrial training at 200 and 300 levels respectively.

Mr. AbdulHakim also highlighted the role of students industrial work experience scheme SIWES in supplying new skills and ideas to students.

“Mass Communication is a vast environment, and students need to explore such environments, they should not restrict themselves in Radio and TV only” Sir Abdulhakim said.

Mr. Abdulhakim, who narrated his past experience, mentioned that students can do their SIWES at various ministries, departments and agencies, this is because, all organizations, governments and even non governmental institutions have information units and they need image makers, and those are public relations officers.

Also, speaking at pioneer day of Mass communication students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, held on 7th November 2024, a veteran broadcaster and Director News and programs of Sokoto Media Cooperation, Hajiya Balkisu Abubakar, implored students that “they should not limit themselves to Radio”.
She appealed to them to engage themselves in other means of communication and contribute their quota to the development of their society.

Despite the fact that, Mass Communication is a broad field and students learn the rudiments skills of the field in schools, usually these students seem to have much interest in broadcast media particularly radio, and this brought the question of why the students are neglecting other areas of the profession?

To answer this question we need to critically observe the course and the students. Traditionally some students join the field with an intention becoming popular in their respective communities.

According to Aliyu Muhammad who obtained a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic Sokoto, he said students like him selected and chose radio or television during their SIWES because a journalist is easier to be known through broadcast media being the most popular channels of communication known and used widely.

He also mentioned that limited access to print media by the community members is another factor discouraging students of Mass Communication to do their industrial training in print outlets.

While sharing his opinion Ibrahim Shehu Bulama from Kaduna State University, KASU, said “this is happening due to lack of good awareness on other channels of Mass Communication”.

On his part Abubakar Mai Lafiya said; students mainly want to be seen in television screens and their voices been heard, not focusing on other critical fields of journalism and information practices.

Speaking anonymously, a Mass Communication students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, said they normally choose Broadcast media (Radio and Television) due to its nature of easy access, portability and wide outreach.

To change some of these narratives there should be some measures that will motivate students and induce hope for them in other fields of Mass Communication.

There should be a good orientation to educate students that they can also carry out their SIWES in other information units, public relations Departments of public and private sectors such as financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, markets and almost all other places of human interactions.

Another alternative is, the Mass Communication departments should establish a collaborative relationship with such organizations, so that they can formally send letters, requesting spaces for the students to join and garner the experience. Such organization should make special provision for SIWES students and prepare to take them when there is need.

Moreover Mass Communication Departments should help students to understand why they should go for their SIWES in areas they’re strong as reflected by their grade points.

Being a Mass Communicator, one should understand that his/her basic responsibility and professional calling is with every institution. One should remember it’s time to acts, time to rethink and focus. Students have to confront the current challenges of the field so that one can explore utilize and make impact. This will make someone to influence the world positively.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli

Have you ever walked into a mosque and sensed its walls whispering stories? Stories of faith, of community, of lives transformed? One quiet afternoon in Bauchi, as the sun cast long shadows across the courtyard of a newly renovated mosque, I found myself in the middle of such a conversation. But this was no ordinary dialogue. 

The mosque itself began to speak, its voice a blend of gratitude and reverence, joined by the echoes of countless lives impacted by one man—Dr. Yakubu Adamu, the Commissioner of Finance and Economic Development, affectionately known as Mai Masallaci.

The mosque’s voice was calm yet commanding, like the adhan that calls the faithful to prayer. “Sit,” it seemed to say, “and listen to the story of a man who saw me not as a crumbling structure but as a sanctuary of hope. 

When Dr. Yakubu Adamu first approached me, I was in ruins—my walls cracked, my roof leaking, my courtyard silent. But he saw beyond my decay. He saw the souls who gathered within me, the prayers that rose from my floors, and the community that depended on me. With his hands, he rebuilt me. With his heart, he revived me. And with his faith, he reminded me of my purpose—to be a house of Allah, a home of unity and hope.”

I leaned in, captivated, as the mosque continued: “But he did not stop with me. He traveled across the state, seeking out my brothers—mosques that had been forgotten and abandoned. He gave them new life, not just as structures, but as symbols of faith and community. He understood that building a mosque is a bridge between this world and the hereafter.”

Then, another voice joined the conversation—a gentle, heartfelt murmur that seemed to come from the air around us. It was the voice of his philanthropic gestures, the countless acts of kindness that had touched thousands of lives.  

“He is not just a builder of mosques,” the voice said. “He is a builder of lives. I have seen him provide food for the hungry, scholarships for the bright but needy, and medical care for the sick. I have watched him sit with the poor, listen to their struggles, and offer material support and hope. He does not see charity as an obligation; he sees it as a privilege, a way to draw closer to Allah.”

The mosque nodded in agreement, its dome catching the sunlight like a crown. “Yes,” it said. “He is a man who understands that true success lies in serving others. His humanitarian services are not just acts of kindness; they are acts of worship.”

As the conversation deepened, the voices grew more numerous, each adding a layer to the story of Dr. Yakubu Adamu. The students he had supported spoke of his belief in education as a tool for empowerment. The elderly he had cared for praised his compassion and respect for the aged. The farmers he had assisted shared stories of his commitment to economic development and self-sufficiency. And through it all, one theme emerged: Dr. Adamu is a man who lives for others, a man whose life is proof of the teachings of Islam.

Now glowing with pride, the mosque turned to me and said, “But perhaps what sets him apart is his humility. He does not seek recognition or praise. He works quietly, tirelessly, knowing that his true reward lies with Allah. He is a leader who leads by example, a servant who serves with love, and a believer who lives by faith.”

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the mosque’s courtyard, I felt a profound awe. This was not just a story of a man; it was a story of a legacy—a legacy of faith, service, and humanity. Dr. Yakubu Adamu is not just a commissioner but a guardian of the people, a protector of the faith, and a pillar of hope.

The mosque, its voice now a whisper, offered a final thought: “Tell the world about him. Let them know that in a time when selflessness is rare, Dr. Yakubu Adamu stands as a reminder of what it means to live a life of purpose. Inform them that his work is not just for this world but for the hereafter. And convey that we, the mosques and the hearts he has touched, are forever grateful.”

As I left the mosque that evening, the call to Maghrib prayer echoed through the streets, reminding me of the divine connection that Dr. Yakubu Adamu has strengthened through his work. His story is not just one of bricks and mortar, food and medicine, or governance and development. It is a story of faith, love, and a man who has dedicated his life to improving this world and the hereafter. May Allah bless him, protect him, and grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi

I want to share an inspiring story about perseverance and determination. Some time ago, Malam Aisara Fagge, a visionary educator from Kano, conceived an innovative idea to empower youths with knowledge about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and train them to utilize ChatGPT effectively. 

Malam Aisar took his enthusiasm to social media, publicly announcing his intention to collaborate with Professor Abdullah Uba Adamu on this project. Although the project didn’t come to fruition, an interesting turn of events unfolded. 

Shortly after, I stumbled upon banners advertising training programs on ChatGPT in southern Nigeria with prices that seemed exorbitant. I shared these banners with Malam Aisara, whose response was profound: ‘When you have an idea, many people will try to replicate it.’ His words echoed the age-old adage that ‘imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”

This experience came flooding back when I connected with Dr. Idris Ahmed on social media. He shares a similar passion for educating people about computer appreciation and AI and plans to make this vision a reality through his NGO, CUPS. I was impressed by his dedication, and I offered him my support.

What’s truly remarkable about Dr. Idris’s endeavor is his commitment to training many people, thereby pioneering a movement in this field. His initiative has the potential to bridge the knowledge gap and make AI more accessible to a broader audience in Nigeria and beyond.

I sincerely hope Dr. Idris receives the support and recognition he deserves to make this project a resounding success. I pray that Almighty Allah grants success to both Malam Aisara Fagge and Dr. Idris Ahmed in their endeavors, and may their efforts bring about positive change in the lives of many.

Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi wrote via prof4true1@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The Nigerian political landscape is never short of intrigue, speculation, and high-stakes maneuvering. The latest storm centers around Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), and allegations made by his ‘former’ ally and friend, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State.

El-Rufai has accused Ribadu of secretly positioning himself for a presidential bid in 2031, alleging that he is working to eliminate key northern politicians before the elections. In an Arise TV interview, El-Rufai said:

“Somebody wants to destroy my reputation. Why? Nuhu Ribadu wants to be president in 2031. He has to eliminate every northerner that he thinks is on the radar.”

These allegations have sparked intense debate, given Ribadu’s current position as the NSA, one of the most powerful offices in the country. The role demands absolute loyalty to the sitting president, and any sign of personal political ambition would be politically dangerous.

However, Ribadu has vehemently denied the claims, dismissing any suggestion that he is planning a presidential run in 2031. In his response, he stated:

“For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody.”

Currently, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in the second year of his first term and is widely anticipated to run for reelection in 2027. If he wins, his administration would extend until 2031. Considering this timeline, it seems premature for anyone in Tinubu’s inner circle—particularly someone in such a sensitive position as the NSA—to be planning a presidential bid so early.

To be fair to Ribadu, every seasoned political observer knows he is too intelligent and experienced to make such a politically reckless move. Launching a presidential campaign while still serving in a crucial role would create unnecessary distractions, fuel rivalries, and generate deep animosities within the government. It would also call his loyalty to Tinubu into question.

So why is Ribadu being linked to 2031?

First, his close relationship with President Tinubu has earned him the title of Tinubu’s golden boy (Dan Fulani). His reputation as a disciplined, intelligent,  experienced, and competent leader makes him a natural contender in any discussion about potential successors. Any rising political figure will inevitably attract speculation in a political climate where future ambitions are often carefully managed behind closed doors but widely discussed publicly by everyday people.

Second, the political class understands that succession planning is always at play, even when not publicly acknowledged. While Ribadu may not currently campaign for the presidency, political opportunities can arise unexpectedly. Nigerian politicians are known for their ability to seize the moment when the circumstances align, even if it was not originally in their plans.

Politics is unpredictable, and today’s denials can quickly become tomorrow’s declarations. Whether or not Nuhu Ribadu harbors presidential ambitions, the reality is that he possesses the qualities of a strong contender—experience, credibility, and proximity to power. If the opportunity presented itself, would he take it?

Only time will tell. But one thing is sure: The road to 2031 has already begun, and the political maneuvering will only intensify in the coming years.

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

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia

Throughout the week, discussions have arisen following the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) rejection of the closure of schools in some predominantly Muslim states in the North. In that context, I came across another article published by the Daily Trust on the same topic, written by a Muslim, or at least someone with a Muslim name; I cannot ascertain his faith.

This morning, I took some time away from assessing my students to read the articles. It is unfair to respond to a statement that one has not read. 

I read the press release by CAN a few times over, hoping I might find some wisdom. Unfortunately, I couldn’t. CAN is its usual self, apprehensive of anything Islamic out of fear of losing relevance. 

Christianity in Nigeria, as I often say, is merely surviving due to the presence of Islam. For instance, if Muslims were to cease going on hajj, all the Christian pilgrims’ boards, including the central one in Abuja, would naturally wither away. It is only when Muslims discuss Shariah that Christians recall the existence of Ecclesiastical law, which many of them know little about. The examples are numerous.

This time around, CAN understands that closing schools “for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students”. What CAN has forgotten is that Nigerian schools have always been closed for the same “extended period” of at least one month since our colonial days for Christian festivals. In fact, the Nigerian school calendar is designed to close all schools for at least two weeks each for Easter and Christmas celebrations. 

The Christian holidays have been officially recognised and embedded in our school calendar in a so-called secular country. If CAN were concerned about religious balance, as they falsely claim, they would have advocated for the cancellation of the Christmas and Easter holidays and proposed something neutral.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the signatory to the press release, wanted Nigerians to believe that the closure of schools during Ramadan would compromise the education of Christian children and devalue Christian communities in the North. This is an admission by the CAN President that the education of Nigerian Muslim children has always been compromised and that Nigerian Muslims have no value in Nigeria since their children are forced to remain out of schools for Christian festivals.

I am waiting for the CAN President and his team to go to court as they have threatened. What I would like to assure them is that Nigerian Muslims are now wiser. CAN hasn’t yet seen anything. All traces of Christianity as imposed on other Nigerians must be removed from our national life. It is just a matter of time.

The opening argument of the Daily Trust writer is that there is no single injunction in Islam mandating the closure of schools during Ramadan. I wish he would tell us where Islam mandates the closure of schools for Christmas and Easter. Islam is a complete way of life. Isn’t that what he is trying to argue? Does Islam not prevent us from blindly copying Jews and Christians?

From the beginning, Muslims have paid for the unity of the North and, indeed, Nigeria with their religion and, in some instances, their blood. This must stop at some point. If we are to remain united, then the rights of Muslims must be acknowledged and granted.

The people who colonised us were Christians. This explains why Christianity is ingrained in almost every aspect of our national life. Now that Muslims are expressing dissent, some people are calling for unity. A shared Northern identity? Yes. One Nigeria? Yes. One religion? No, we are Muslims and will not continue to accept the imposition of another religion upon us.

Finally, let me call on our Governors and, indeed, the Federal Government to embark on a comprehensive reform of our school system to align it with our values and beliefs. All neocolonial items should be removed.

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia can be contacted via aujibia@gmail.com.

By Samira Usman Adam

Politics is a game of interests, influence, and sometimes, survival. But above all, it is about leadership and leading people with wisdom, fairness, and strategic foresight. At this critical point in Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s political career, one thing is clear: his ability to build more friends than enemies will define his legacy far beyond his tenure in office.

Just recently, Ganduje received a vote of confidence from the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, a significant gesture considering the turbulence surrounding his political journey. 

This is not just a lifeline; it is an opportunity he must seize to prove himself as more than just a money monger, as critics often describe him. If I were in his shoes, my approach would be simple: mend fences, consolidate power through unity, and rewrite my political narrative.

Power is Fleeting, but Influence Lasts

One of politicians’ biggest mistakes is believing that power alone is enough to sustain relevance. The reality, however, is that power is temporary, but influence, built through meaningful relationships, lasts far longer. 

Ganduje must realise that his current standing within the APC is not just about political loyalty but also about how he navigates relationships, particularly in Kano and at the national level.

If I were him, I would prioritise reconciling with those I have wronged, whether within the party, in Kano politics, or even in the opposition. Political grudges only create unnecessary enemies, and in a democracy, today’s enemy might be tomorrow’s ally. The greatest leaders recognise this and act accordingly.

Rewriting the Narrative: Beyond Money Politics

Ganduje’s name has been tarnished by allegations of corruption, with many reducing his political identity to financial controversies. Whether true or not, perception is powerful in politics. Now, with a renewed opportunity, he must take intentional steps to reshape how people perceive him.

If I were Ganduje, I would focus on key strategies:

 1. Promote issue-based politics: Shift away from financial influence and instead foster discussions on governance, policy, and party unity.

 2. Public Engagement and Transparency: Tackle concerns regarding governance and finances directly. The more open and accountable a leader seems, the more trust they can restore.

 3. Legacy Projects: Even beyond active governance, supporting meaningful initiatives in education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment can reshape how history remembers him.

Building Bridges for Political Survival

At this stage, every political move must be calculated with the future in mind. As a former governor, Ganduje still retains considerable influence in Kano politics, but influence without consolidation amounts to little. If I were in his position, I would engage in high-level bridge-building, both within the APC and beyond.

 • Reunite Factions Within APC Kano: The state remains politically divided, and without unity, APC’s strength in Kano could diminish.

 • Engage with Political Opponents: There is nothing undignified about reconciling with former rivals. In fact, it exemplifies true leadership.

 • Strengthen National Alliances: The political landscape is unpredictable, and having allies beyond Kano is crucial for long-term relevance.

Final Thoughts

The vote of confidence that Ganduje received is not merely a validation; it is an invitation to prove himself, to lead differently, and to transition from being perceived as a controversial figure to a respected statesman. 

If I were him, I would spend the next phase of my career doing exactly that: making more friends than enemies, consolidating my influence, and ensuring that my name, when written in history, is associated with strategy, leadership, and reconciliation rather than controversy.

This is the opportunity of a lifetime. Will he take it?

Samira Usman Adam wrote via sammyranoh@gmail.com.

Assalamu Alaikum Your Excellency,

I trust this message finds you well. May Almighty Allah accept our ibadah and make us among those pardoned in this blessed month.

I am writing to express my concerns about the Ramadan Feeding Program, which began last week. It is imperative that thorough measures are taken to ensure that the entire N4.8 billion budget reaches the deserving people of our state.

It is evident that the program has been plagued by numerous issues, including a lack of proper hygiene during food preparation, insufficient nutritional quality, and the replacement of community members with individuals from different areas, among other concerns.

Your Excellency, you know that N4.8 billion is a substantial amount—funds that could have been allocated for infrastructure and human capital development. However, you used it to alleviate the economic burden on the masses. This makes it even more critical to ensure that the program is implemented with the highest level of transparency and efficiency.

In this regard, I urge Your Excellency to involve Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in each local government area to enhance accountability and transparency in executing the program. A case in point is our neighboring state of Kano, whose population is nearly double that of Jigawa. They allocated N8 billion for their Ramadan Feeding Program, and anyone can attest to the high quality of the food distributed, as strict measures regarding safety, quality, and nutrition have been met.

Meanwhile, in Jigawa, some images have surfaced showing a lack of proper hygiene, inadequate nutritional content, and an overall lack of transparency in the process. Since you are already planning a visit, I urge you to take this opportunity to probe some of the concerns raised about the program. It would be unethical to ignore how such a massive sum is being managed.

I commend your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people of Jigawa. However, Your Excellency, do not allow these successes to overshadow critical issues in other initiatives under your leadership.

Recently, we heard claims from the Commissioner of Health that the people of Birnin Kudu were denied access to billions of naira meant for the health sector. These concerns warrant urgent investigation.

Your initiative, Gwamnati da Jama’a (Government and the People), is commendable. I urge you to take this open letter as a direct message from the masses, calling for necessary action.

As a journalist, my responsibility is to ensure that Jigawa excels in every aspect and that the government remains accountable. I sincerely hope that Your Excellency will take the necessary measures to address these concerns and maintain the trust and respect of the people you serve.

Muhammad Abubakar Tahir is a freelance journalist, PRNigeria fellow and PDGP fellow. He can be contacted atabubakarmtahir81@gmail.com.

I would like to start by expressing my profound admiration for your work. I must admit that I have always been a great fan of yours, appreciating your leadership skills and vision more than any politician in Kaduna State.

Your impressive work ethic, policy foresight, demonstrated competence, and ability to resist criticism and implement what you consider the right thing earned you a place in my heart.

(Un)fortunately, I’m not the kind of fan who always praises his favourites and considers any criticism an attempt to discredit his master.

Sir, your recent actions, remarks, and holier-than-thou attitude have led some to speculate that you are suffering from Out-of-Office syndrome. However, I prefer not to believe them.

In your recent interview with Arise TV,  you said things that, had I not watched the interview, I would have dismissed as typical political propaganda.

Firstly, you defined “friendship” as  “someone that has the fidelity to some ethical and moral standards, and will be there for you when you need him, not when it’s time to party or enjoy.”

Of course, I agree with you to some extent. However, in this context, are you suggesting that you prioritise loyalty over accountability, even if it means ignoring the concerns of those who elected you?

I believe that, by your definition of “friendship,” Uba Sani should prioritise being a “friend “ to the people of Kaduna who are struggling to get a meal due to these “economic reforms “ (which you said you supported and are the right orthodox policies…) rather than showing loyalty to his predecessor.

In your interview with Charles, you mentioned that the Late Yar’adua invited you to join his cabinet, an offer you declined. This remark reminded me of another instance in which you used his death as a mocking tool to brag about your resilience.

Your allegations against Nuhu Ribadu and his subsequent response reveal a lot about your dynamics with him. They raise questions about who has maintained the values of true friendship and who has not. I won’t elaborate further.

Sir, as you are probably approaching the last decade of your active political career, I would advise you to focus on nurturing your private life (considering your frequent references to prioritising it) rather than investing time and energy in making new (or perceived) enemies.

Do not dwell too much on criticism and allegations; do what Kwankwaso did: allow your track record to speak for you.

Lastly, may your famous political slogan — “MURUS” — not be used against you.

Best regards,

Ukasha Sani Idris

Facebook: Ukasha a Kofarnassarawa.

By Rashida Aliyu

The term ‘Jambites’ refers to new or fresh students at the university, and they often display certain characteristics that set them apart from returning students.

Upon their arrival at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, the faces of Jambites reflected a mixture of excitement and confusion, marking their transition from a secondary school environment to university life.

In observations, Jambites often exhibit behavior characterized by anxiety, as the university setting is entirely new to them. Many struggle with finding their way, navigating registration processes, and adapting to the academic system. As a result, they frequently seek assistance from returning students or university staff to understand how things work.

The fashion of Freshers and their engagement on social media is notable; Jambites tend to wear trendy outfits in an attempt to make a good first impression. They often document their initial experiences by sharing pictures and updates online to inform friends and family about their new journey.

Financial mismanagement is a common issue for many new students, particularly those living on campus. They often receive significant amounts of money from their parents to cover expenses, but inadequate financial planning—largely due to a lack of understanding of the environment—can lead some to spend extravagantly on unnecessary items during the initial weeks, resulting in financial difficulties later.

Eager to attend lectures, Jambites typically arrive early and try to secure seats at the front of the lecture hall to impress their lecturers. However, as the semester progresses, some may become less punctual as they settle into their new school life.

Jambites often seek guidance from senior students, who may either genuinely help them or exploit their naivety. Some returning students mislead newcomers by either exaggerating school rules or soliciting money for the assistance they provide.

Additionally, members of the local community and operators of computer business centers can sometimes betray the trust of new students. For instance, during the accommodation process, many new students are deceived by locals who take their money without providing housing. Furthermore, computer business centers and stationery shops often overcharge freshers for items and services compared to what regular students pay.

Hafsat Muhammad Tsamaye from the Faculty of FEED shared her experiences of life as a Jambite. She mentioned enjoying wandering around the campus without any specific purpose, simply to observe the movement of people. “During my first year, which people referred to as Jambito, it was amusing and easy because I was a Jambito. There were three things I normally did during that time: I was always looking for free Wi-Fi to download more movies than I could watch, even though I didn’t end up watching a lot of them,” she recalled.

Hafsat also shared her experience of attending night classes, remarking, “During my first semester as a Jambito, I always attended night classes, but I didn’t study much; I mostly just slept and changed classes every hour, spending money without any control. The funniest part was that I always cooked for others.”

The behaviors exhibited by Jambites upon their arrival at UDUS vary, but most of them show excitement, anxiety, and a strong desire to fit in.

In my opinion, the university management should implement a comprehensive orientation program to guide newcomers and facilitate their smooth transition into university life. This would help prevent potential issues. Additionally, returning students should treat freshers as their juniors and ensure they do not mislead them.