Opinion

By Gaddafi Yusuf Young Journalist 

Someone who stands up for justice and rejects ineptitude and injustice in all facets of his people’s lives is considered a comrade. 

Dan Bello is a well-known character who appears everywhere. He uncovers a secret: the Nigerian government is embezzling and laundering money. Despite being abroad, more precisely, born in the United States of America, where everyone is entitled to freedom, and living in China, the birthplace of major global advancements.

Dan Bello conducts in-depth research and analysis to spit out everything the Nigerian government is doing. He affects all three branches of the government, clerics, and the populace at large.

Although he had few views when posting his skits on social media, his consistency helped him grow over at least two years. He raises awareness of the hardships and unrest occurring in Nigeria, particularly among the northerners, as well as the bribery and corruption that have become ingrained in the country’s citizenry. 

Despite his abundance of knowledge, he made the Nigerian people aware of what was happening outside their doors—the waste and theft of the country’s natural resources and wealth by providing them with factual and empirical reports.

Unfortunately, he is being attacked, mistreated, and vilified by a few ignorant and disloyal young people in the north just because he exposed their political ancestors, who exploited the nation as a prop for themselves and their progeny. 

It touches my heart more, but I understand how our youths have turned to beggars for food without thinking about the consequences in their lives. All they need is their boss’s appreciation and happiness, regardless of how others are torturing and tormenting by their action. 

Even now, our people still find it difficult to embrace the harsh reality of their religious beliefs, political opinions, and relationships with loved ones. 

I felt compelled to appeal to Dan Bello because it hurts to fight for the people you love and those people to fight back because they are self-centred and ignorant. But I beg of you, Dan Bello, and your men, including Barr. Bulama Bukarti, Jafar Jafar, Salisu Zango, Barr. Abba Hikima and the rest of your team have taken me as mentors and role models for journalism and freedom fighters, not to mention them. I promise to work tirelessly alongside you and your team to uncover the truth no matter where it may be found, all the way to the end of this incredible journey to liberate ourselves from the oppressive leaders that rule us.

I pray to Almighty Allah to provide you success, direction, and safety wherever you are. I hope that my beloved Nigeria will soon be restored and revitalised.

Gaddafi Yusuf is a Mass Communications student from A.M.T Massive College and can be via gaddafiyusuf240@gmail.com. 

By Muhammed Bello Umar

Nepotism is a long-standing problem in Nigeria that has plagued the country for several years. It is the practice of favouring family or friends over others, typically without regard for their qualifications or abilities. This practice is widespread in Nigeria and has manifested in various sectors of the economy, including politics, education, and the job market.

Nepotism is common in the political arena, as politicians appoint their relatives or friends to positions of power or influence, regardless of merit or qualifications. This practice has resulted in appointing unqualified individuals to high-level positions, leading to the underdevelopment and poor performance of many sectors in the country.

Nepotism also exists in the education sector, as students are often admitted into universities based on connections rather than merit. This practice has led to a decline in the quality of education and has hindered the sector’s growth.

Similarly, nepotism is widespread in the job market, and family or friends of employers are often given preferential treatment over more qualified candidates, resulting in high unemployment rates and low job opportunities for deserving individuals.

Overall, nepotism undermines Nigeria’s growth and development by promoting mediocrity over meritocracy. Nigerian leaders must prioritise meritocracy and ensure that positions of power and influence are given to the most qualified individuals, irrespective of their connections. Only then can Nigeria progress towards prosperity and sustainable development.

Muhammed Bello Umar wrote via princemub28@gmail.com

By Abdulsalam Alkali

Mr President, when you contested for the presidency of this country, many Nigerians believed that you were a democrat. This made you endearing to Nigerians who believed that democracy was the only way to bring about the desired change for the country. Hence, Nigerians supported you in actualising your long-term dream of becoming the president of this country. 

For over 14 months that you have been the President of this country, Nigeria has been engulfed by economic instability, high inflation rate, insecurity and gross poverty. Due to some of your policies and programs, Nigeria has never had a bad situation like this before.

These aforementioned challenges have forced Nigerian Youth, including those of older ages, to protest in the hope of finding a panacea to the problems that bedevilled us as a country. Unfortunately, your recent broadcast failed to address the issues being raised by Nigerians. It was a plea and assurance, as usual. Mr. President, we need action because, at this point, people have virtually lost hope in your government.

Mr President, I want to remind you that the issues facing Nigerians require your immediate attention. It is your responsibility to take swift action to lift this country out of the dire situation it finds itself in and set it on the path to peace and prosperity. 

Poor Nigerians’ only concern is for the government to make things more affordable and work toward reducing the price of food and other basic necessities of life.

The recent protests may have subsided, but if the current situation persists, it will undoubtedly affect your chances and, by extension, disrupt the fragile peace we currently enjoy. Food security is crucial in maintaining a nation’s stability and ensuring national security. 

Abdulsalam Alkali writes from Maiduguri, Borno State.

By Dr. Mansur Hassan

The Kwankwasiyya movement, founded and led by Senior Dr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has emerged as a dominant force in Nigerian politics, particularly in Kano State. With a reputation for championing transparency, good governance, and the empowerment of the masses, Kwankwasiyya has also developed a unique and highly effective method for selecting political candidates. This process reflects the movement’s deep-rooted commitment to democracy, grassroot participation, and merit-based leadership.

A Thoughtful Approach to Candidate Selection

At the heart of the Kwankwasiyya movement’s political ideology is the belief that leadership should reflect the will of the people while upholding competence, dedication, and integrity. In line with these principles, the movement has designed a multi-layered process for selecting candidates for both primary and secondary elections, ensuring that only the best and most qualified individuals are chosen to represent the party.

The selection process begins at the local level, where the local government caucuses play a crucial role. The caucus engages in a consensus-building exercise among the aspirants within the constituency. This initial step underscores the movement’s emphasis on local representation and grassroots decision-making, allowing the community to participate in choosing those who will best serve their interests.

In cases where the consensus fails and the local leadership is unable to agree on a single candidate, a screening process is initiated. This screening is designed to assess the qualifications, leadership capabilities, and electability of the aspirants. The goal is to streamline the number of candidates, ensuring that only the most capable individuals advance to the next stage.

The Role of the National Leader

Once the screening process is complete, the shortlisted candidates are presented to the national leader, Senior Dr. Kwankwaso, for final review. Here, the movement’s supreme leader plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the selected candidates align with the values and vision of the Kwankwasiyya movement. Dr. Kwankwaso, with his vast political experience and insight, assesses whether the shortlisted candidates truly reflect the will and aspirations of the people. If there is any indication that the candidates do not align with popular sentiment, the national leader has the authority to call for further changes, ensuring that the process remains fair and representative.

However, when the consensus and the screening process successfully produce a candidate that meets both the local caucus’s approval and the movement’s broader ideological standards, the national leader endorses the candidate. This method guarantees that the selected candidates are not only popular but also competent, ethical, and aligned with the movement’s long-term vision for societal progress and development.

An Open Democratic Platform

Despite the careful and thoughtful selection process, the Kwankwasiyya movement remains committed to upholding democracy within the party. For any aspirant who feels dissatisfied with the outcome of the selection process, the opportunity to contest in the party primaries remains open. This option ensures that all candidates have a fair chance to present their case to the party’s larger membership, maintaining transparency and inclusivity within the movement.

This democratic safety valve is another reason why Kwankwasiyya’s method of candidate selection stands out. It allows for robust internal debate and competition while ultimately reinforcing party unity and strength.

A Cornerstone of Political Dominance

The Kwankwasiyya movement’s candidate selection process is a key factor behind its sustained political dominance in Kano State and its growing influence across Nigeria. The movement’s ability to produce competent, popular, and well-prepared candidates has earned it the trust of the people. The process ensures that leadership emerges from a foundation of integrity, merit, and accountability, reflecting the movement’s broader commitment to progressive governance.

Beyond mere electoral success, the Kwankwasiyya movement represents a political ideology that is centered on empowering the masses, fostering development, and ensuring that governance is responsive to the needs of the people. Its candidate selection process is a reflection of this ideology, ensuring that leadership is not imposed but earned through consensus, merit, and democratic principles.

Conclusion

The Kwankwasiyya movement, under the guidance of Senior Dr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has set an exemplary standard for political organization and candidate selection. By balancing grassroots participation with strong national leadership, the movement has created a model that ensures only the best candidates emerge, reinforcing its dominance and appeal. As Kwankwasiyya continues to grow in influence, its political ideology and practices will undoubtedly shape the future of Nigerian politics, setting a standard for others to follow.

Mansur Hassan, PhD
Secretary, Kwankwasiyya movement
Kano state.

By Kabir Fagge Ali

Throughout its history, Nigeria has allowed political figures who have failed to meet public expectations to remain in or return to positions of power. This trend of political recycling has not only stifled progress but also perpetuated a cycle of inefficiency and corruption.

Nigeria ranks among the most corrupt countries globally, consistently near the bottom of the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). In 2023, the country was ranked 145 out of 180 countries, with a score of 25 out of 100, reflecting minimal improvement from previous years. The country’s persistent corruption is deeply rooted in its political culture, where high-profile politicians frequently escape serious consequences for their actions. 

For instance, despite numerous corruption allegations, former officials often receive minimal penalties or are pardoned altogether, as seen with former governors pardoned by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Over the years, the Nigerian government has established institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to combat corruption. However, these bodies often face significant challenges, including political interference and inadequate resources, which hinder their effectiveness.

Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has seen a recurrent pattern of political leaders re-emerging in positions of power despite their previous failures. This trend spans various administrations and political parties, often characterised by a lack of accountability and transparency. One prominent example is the Senate leadership. David Mark served as President of the Senate from 2007 to 2015. 

Despite controversies surrounding his tenure, including allegations of misappropriation of funds and lack of transparency, often re-emerged in various political capacities. Similarly, Bukola Saraki, who served as Senate President from 2015 to 2019, faced numerous allegations of corruption and asset declaration discrepancies. Despite these issues, he continued to wield considerable influence in Nigerian politics, running for the presidency and remaining active in politics.

Similarly, state governors in Nigeria have also exemplified this trend. James Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State (1999-2007), was convicted of corruption and money laundering. Despite his conviction and imprisonment, he remains influential in Nigerian politics, with significant support and influence within his home state and beyond. 

Another example is Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, the former Governor of Bayelsa State (1999-2005), who was impeached and later convicted of corruption. Despite this, he remained an influential political figure until his death, and his family remains politically active.

These cases highlight how political figures, even after being held accountable for significant misconduct, continue to wield influence and often return to positions of power.

This trend is not limited to high-ranking officials. Ministers and other political appointees in Nigeria also exhibit this pattern. For instance, Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, was implicated in numerous corruption scandals. Despite being under investigation and facing charges, she remains a prominent figure, and her case highlights the challenges of holding high-ranking officials accountable.

The re-emergence of such figures in the political scenery perpetuates a cycle of inefficiency and corruption, preventing new and potentially more effective leaders from taking the helm.

On the contrary, in stark contrast to Nigeria and many African nations, political accountability in the United States often results in swift removal from office for leaders who fail to meet public expectations or are involved in scandals.

For example, Rod Blagojevich, the former Governor of Illinois, was impeached and removed from office in 2009 after being charged with corruption, including attempting to sell a Senate seat. His removal demonstrated the U.S. system’s ability to hold officials accountable.

Similarly, Anthony Weiner, the former U.S. Representative, resigned in 2011 after a scandal involving inappropriate online behaviour. Despite attempts to return to politics, his repeated misconduct prevented a successful comeback. 

Another U.S. Representative, Katie Hill, resigned in 2019 amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with staffers and other ethical concerns. These resignations highlight the high accountability standards for U.S. public officials.

The recurrent emergence of previously unsuccessful leaders in Nigeria has major implications.

One major consequence is the stagnation of progress. Recycled leaders often bring back old policies and approaches that have already proven ineffective, hindering progress and innovation. This stagnation is evident in various sectors, including the economy, education, and infrastructure development and even the introduction of our dear nation’s old national anthem. The lack of new and dynamic leadership prevents implementing fresh ideas and solutions that could drive the country forward.

Additionally, another life-threatening implication is the erosion of public trust. The public’s faith in the political system diminishes when leaders who have failed to deliver on their promises can return to power. This erosion of trust leads to apathy and disengagement among the electorate, further weakening the democratic process. When citizens feel their votes do not lead to meaningful change, they are less likely to participate in elections and other civic activities, perpetuating a cycle of ineffective governance.

Furthermore, the preservation of corruption is another significant consequence of political recycling. Leaders who have previously engaged in corrupt practices will likely continue such behaviours, further entrenching corruption within the political system.

This persistent corruption undermines the rule of law, hampers economic development, and exacerbates social inequalities. The lack of accountability for corrupt leaders creates an environment where corrupt practices are normalised and even expected, making it difficult to establish a culture of integrity and transparency in governance.

Consequently, to break this cycle of political recycling and foster more accountable and effective leadership, Nigeria should consider several measures. Strengthening democratic institutions is crucial. Enhancing the independence and capacity of institutions like the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies can help ensure that leaders are held accountable for their actions.

The leadership should ensure that these institutions are empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption and other misconduct without political interference.

Additionally, promoting political accountability is another essential step. Implementing mechanisms to hold leaders accountable for their actions and ensuring transparency in governance can help restore public trust in the political system. This includes enacting and enforcing laws that prevent individuals with a history of corruption and misconduct from holding public office. Also, the media and civil society organisations play a vital role in holding leaders accountable by investigating and reporting corruption and other issues to the general public. 

Moreover, encouraging political renewal is also necessary to foster effective leadership. Creating opportunities for new leaders to emerge by promoting political education and participation, especially among the youth and marginalised groups, can help bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to governance. Of course, this includes investing in civic education programs that teach young people about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and encouraging them to participate in the political process.

Ultimately, political recycling in Nigeria has hindered the country’s development and eroded public trust in governance. By learning from global examples like the United States, where political accountability is enforced more rigorously, Nigeria can adopt strategies to ensure a more accountable and effective political leadership.

This, in turn, would foster a more prosperous and stable nation. The journey towards breaking the cycle of political recycling will not be easy. Still, with concerted efforts and a commitment to accountability and transparency, Nigeria can pave the way for a brighter future.

Kabir Fagge Ali is a Youth Corps Member with PR Nigeria centre and wrote via faggekabir29@gmail.com.

By Maimunna Katuka Aliyu

Understanding blood types and genotypes is crucial for emergencies, such as blood transfusions during accidents. However, knowing one’s genotype, particularly before marriage, is equally important to avoid having children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

Blood genotypes determine an individual’s blood type, inherited from our parents and remain constant throughout our lives. The four main blood types are A, B, AB, and O, classified based on the presence of antigens in red blood cells. The Rh factor can also be present (Rh-positive) or absent (Rh-negative), further defining blood types.

Blood genotypes play significant roles in the following:
– Blood Transfusions: Ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient blood.
– Pregnancy: Preventing complications like haemolytic disease of the newborn.
– Organ Transplants: Matching donor and recipient blood types for successful transplants.
– Disease Susceptibility: Influencing susceptibility to diseases like sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder affecting haemoglobin production, leading to abnormal red blood cells. These cells become crescent-shaped and rigid, causing a range of health problems. The genotype responsible for SCD is known as HbSS or HbSβthal, resulting from a mutation in the HBB gene.

Individuals with sickle cell disease have two copies of the mutated gene (HbSS), while those with one normal gene and one mutated gene (HbAS) have the sickle cell trait but generally remain healthy. Understanding an individual’s genotype is crucial in determining their risk of developing SCD or passing it to their offspring.

The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary in severity and include:
– Anemia
– Fatigue
– Shortness of breath
– Pale skin
– Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
– Painful episodes (crises)
– Swelling of hands and feet
– Increased risk of infections

While there is no cure for sickle cell disease, several management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications:
– Pain Management: Medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
– Blood Transfusions: Increasing healthy red blood cell levels.
– Hydroxyurea: Reducing the frequency of painful episodes and improving anaemia.

Aisha Mahmud, a sickle cell patient diagnosed at age three, shared her experiences. As she grew older, the frequency of her crises reduced, occurring only once every three months. She regularly visits Primus Hospital in Karu, Abuja, and FMC Azare for checkups. Aisha emphasises that emotional stress often triggers crises, highlighting the importance of therapy over medication. Remarkably, her genotype changed from SS to AC, bringing immense joy to her family.

The challenges faced by sickle cell patients are immense, impacting them physically, psychologically, emotionally, and financially. Crises can occur unpredictably, causing significant distress to patients and their families.

Researchers are continuously exploring new treatment options for sickle cell disease. Some of the latest developments include:

– Hydroxyurea: Reduces pain crises and acute chest syndrome, decreasing the need for blood transfusions.

– Voxelotor: Approved for people age four and older to reduce pain crises and improve anaemia.

– Crizanlizumab: Approved for people age 16 and older to reduce pain crises.

– L-glutamine: Approved for people age five and older to reduce pain crises.

– Bone Marrow Transplant: Can cure some individuals with SCD but requires careful consideration and a suitable donor.

– Gene Therapy: Genes are used to correct the mutations that cause sickle cell disease.

– CRISPR Technology: A gene-editing tool that corrects the mutation causing SCD.

In conclusion, sickle cell disease is a complex and debilitating genetic disorder affecting millions worldwide. While there is no cure, management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Ongoing research and new treatment options offer hope for improved treatment and potentially a cure in the future.

Maimunna Katuka Aliyu wrote via munat815@gmail.com.

By Dr. Abdulkadir Lawan

A putatively held belief is that the banditry and crime in the Zamfara region of Nigeria cannot be unconnected to the politics of gold and other natural resources mining. But something deadlier than politics, a stealthy by-product of crude extraction methods at the core of gold mining, might have played a leading role in the increase in crime we are witnessing today in the region. 

In the early 2000s, possibly due to the recent change in rule from a military to a democratic one, a renewed gold interest in Zamfara resulted in a mini gold rush. Women and men in the villages would dig out rock ore and extract the gold through crushing and grinding; the resulting dust was contaminated with lead. Some even brought this newfound work to their homes, contaminating their food, water, clothes, and, most dangerously, children. What followed in child deaths from lead poisoning created an unintended raucous through polio vaccination outreach and ended up inviting several efforts to clean up the areas and treat the surviving children.

It is well known that lead is dangerous, even in small doses. It mimics calcium in the body and can be stored in bones, continuing to poison the body even years after initial exposure. The brain is the most sensitive organ to lead. It basically blocks the release of neurotransmitters, which causes headaches and memory loss, and children are especially susceptible. There is no doubt among scientists that lead exposure can cause permanent learning disorders and behavioural problems.

Studies on baby teeth showed that even lead exposure well below the “safe” level results in delayed learning, decreased IQ and increased behavioural problems. There was a direct correlation between lead in children and the inability to graduate from high school in the US. While the CDC has since lowered the acceptable levels of lead in children’s blood from 60ug/dL to 3.5ug/dL over the years, there is no safe lead level as far as it is known today.

Globally, about 65% of all unexplained intellectual disability are believed to be caused by lead. Many countries have monitored the levels of lead exposure in their children over time. In Nigeria, we have little to no data nationwide. A particular US data, however, shows troubling correlations. 

Violent crimes steadily rose from the 1970s to the 1990s before abruptly declining. The troubling part? A graph of average preschool blood lead levels looked strikingly similar to crime levels roughly twenty years apart. The question was whether kids exposed to higher levels of lead grew up to commit more crimes.

The same pattern appears in Britain, Canada, and Australia. In another study, the lead concentrations in the blood of those arrested for violent and anti-social behaviour could not have been more correlated with their behaviour. This shows that lead is at least very likely responsible for some of the increase in crime. 

Whatever the reason for the resurgence of artisanal gold mining in Zamfara in the early 2000s, children raised in that period were in their early teens and 20s when the country began to witness an upsurge in bandit activities at the start of 2010. Thankfully, considerable clean-up efforts and community sensitisation mean there is an unlikely recurrence of lead poisoning effects on this scale around the region. A decline in violent activities can only then be hoped for. 

Glissading along the same line, the biggest source of lead pollution worldwide was the tetraethyl lead compound that was added to gasoline to make leaded fuel. Nigeria completely phased out leaded gasoline in 2004, as did all other countries between 1986 (Japan) and 2021 (Algeria). Nigeria witnessed a record period of civil violence from the 1970s until about the early 2000s. The current crop of our, in my opinion, clearly cognitive-declined politicians was the most exposed to vehicular lead poisoning in the same generation as the perpetrators of multiple violent religious and ethnic crises.

The dangers of lead had already been known for hundreds of years. In 1786, Benjamin Franklin remarked that lead had been used for far too long considering its known toxicity – “This, my dear friend, is all I can at present recollect on the subject. You will see by it that the opinion of this mischievous effect from lead is at least above sixty years old. And you will observe with concern how long a useful truth may be known and exist before it is generally received and practised on.” 

Scientists decided to add lead to fuel one hundred and fifty years later (i.e., after Benjamin Franklin’s speech). Almost one hundred years after that, the juveniles among our (Nigerian) citizenry were exposed to lead, leaving a nation to wonder why there is so much crime in our time.

Dr. Abdulkadir Lawan wrote via abdullwn@gmail.com.

By Buba Kamal Danladi

In education, the approach to teaching is as crucial as the content itself. Teaching methodology, the comprehensive plan or strategy for systematically presenting material in the classroom, goes beyond merely delivering facts. It embodies beliefs about learning and teaching and specific techniques and activities aligned with these ideologies.

The choice of teaching methodology profoundly influences knowledge acquisition, skill development, and capacity building. Educators must embrace innovative methods that promote critical thinking and interactive learning in an era that transcends traditional role learning. This is especially pivotal in Nigerian tertiary institutions, where outdated teaching approaches often lead to disengagement and subpar academic performance.

Several methodologies warrant attention and adoption in Nigerian educational settings, such as Differentiated Instruction, Catering to diverse learning styles and abilities; Lecture-Based Learning, Traditional yet evolving to include interactive elements; Inquiry-Based Learning, Encouraging curiosity and critical analysis; Technology-Based Learning, Integrating digital tools to enhance understanding; and kinesthetic Learning: Emphasizing hands-on experiences and physical engagement. 

Reflecting on my undergraduate experience at Skyline University Nigeria, I recall the transformative impact of Mr. Abdulhameed Olaitan Ridwanullah’s teaching methods. He epitomised effective education through interactive sessions that valued each student’s thoughts and promoted a culture of inquiry and confidence. His teaching philosophy centres on interactive and student-centred learning. 

Unlike the conventional lecture-heavy approach, his classes are characterised by lively discussions, group projects, and the use of technology to facilitate learning. By integrating digital tools into his curriculum, he engages students and equips them with essential skills for the modern workforce. This tech-savvy approach is particularly relevant in mass communication, where understanding digital platforms is crucial.

Also, his departmental seminar, which he organised, nurtured my public speaking ability. He mandated that all students offering his courses research specific topics and present their findings to seasoned academics. Many students at first despised it, but as some of us inevitably embraced it, it became a ritual. 

The students’ seminar approach not only fostered a deep understanding of the themes the students researched but also ignited a passion for learning, a stark contrast to the disinterest prevalent in many Nigerian institutions.

Educators must critically assess and adapt their teaching strategies to address the disconnect between teaching methodologies and student engagement. The goal is to cultivate an environment where learning is not a passive experience but a vibrant journey of discovery.

However, the transition to such innovative teaching practices requires systemic changes. It calls for investment in digital infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum development. Policymakers and educational institutions must recognise the value of these modern methodologies and provide the necessary support and resources to implement them.

To our students, I offer this reminder: “Do not merely pass through school; let the transformative power of education pass through you.” Embrace learning as an active participant, for the quality of your education shapes your future.

Buba Kamal Danladi writes from Lagos via kamalbuba05@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

You will find some highly versatile members whose contributions drive their areas in every place. The Department of Chemical Engineering at ABU Zaria is no exception. I cannot imagine the department without Professor Atta’s services.

 Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering is among the PhD courses that ring the bell in the department, thanks to the delivery methods perfected by Prof.

Prof. designed his class with weekly assignments submitted before each session. Students take turns submitting and answering immediate follow-up questions, ensuring that even those copied must read. Adhering to this weekly activity is a Prof trademark except for unusual circumstances, keeping students engaged throughout the week. The more time one dedicates to a topic, the better one understands it.

There is also a group project where the class is divided into teams. Each team is assigned a research topic to develop into a term paper. This project often includes laboratory work, computational work, or both to publish a paper in a respected journal. Like the weekly assignments, group work is reported biweekly. The group leader makes a presentation, but each member contributes. Though it is challenging for a group of two or three to produce a paper during coursework, the skill that comes with that is priceless.

Then there is the industrial visit. Prof. Atta ensures that students make at least one visit to a process industry, particularly the Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), to study chemical reaction units such as Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCCU) and fixed bed reactors. These academic excursions are vital for complementing student knowledge or, as Prof. puts it, making knowledge functional.

During our visit to the KRPC FCC unit, the chief operator unleashed the practical working principles of the process. At the same time, Prof. Atta facilitated the connection between theory and practice to us. The duo of Prof. and the experienced chief technician, a reservoir of experience, kept us on our toes until we wished to call it a day. A colleague turned to me and whispered, “Whenever a chemical reaction is being discussed, Dr. (then) can never have enough.”

Of course, this rigorous teaching approach doesn’t sit well with every student, but that never makes Prof. Atta take his foot off the gas. I was surprised at the end of the coursework when a colleague, who was in collusion terms with the course, declared, “I now understand modelling and simulation for the first time.” This is another reason one should not be deterred by complaints of those he is supposed to train. Trainees often want to avoid the process and jump to the achievement, so a trainer must stick with his gun; as they say, the end justifies the means.

A conducive environment is a major concern for research students in Nigeria. Simple tools like a weighing balance, pH meter, or glassware can affect and slow down research. To address these small but impactful issues, Prof. prepared a mini lab equipped with all basic and some analytical equipment. This lab includes a working area, a reading area, and lockers for everyone.

One day, an MSc student met me in the lab and, after his observations, declared, “You, Prof. students, are enjoying,” as if he would say I will join you. Still, to my chagrin, he confessed: I couldn’t join Prof. because I wasn’t serious enough to qualify to work with him.

Another major concern for postgraduate students is time. Many suffer from a lack of contact time and engagement with their supervisors. However, with Prof. Atta, the story is different. His office is a Mecca for PG students, with students queuing from morning to evening, each waiting for their turn.

 Of course, other significant issues that concern the nation and society pop up and are discussed. As a melting pot, the professor’s office allows free fall for ideas, but primordial affiliation has no place. Such gatherings of students, sometimes Professor colleagues, and visitors from various backgrounds are a rare opportunity not only to get a glimpse into diverse area research and technological trends but also to learn about others’ personal life journeys and ambitions. 

The professor’s dedication to academics is exemplary and worthy of emulation by young (and not-so-young) scholars. It will go a long way to facelift postgraduate study in Nigeria.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD, wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com. 

By Aisha Musa Auyo 

September is globally declared Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  The month is dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD) and the challenges faced by those living with this inherited blood disorder. It serves as an opportunity to educate the public, promote early diagnosis, and advocate for better treatment options and research. 

The month also highlights the importance of genetic screening, support for patients and families, and increased funding to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by SCD. Through community events, health campaigns, and social media, advocates aim to bring attention to the urgent need for action and support for those impacted by sickle cell disease.

Today, I want to discuss sickle cell disease from a social and psychological perspective rather than a medical one. While I’m not a medical doctor, I’ll focus on the impact this condition has on families and individuals beyond the clinical aspects.

Anyone who knows me as a relationship coach knows that I deeply love and believe in love. I advocate for it passionately. However, when it comes to marriage, love is just one of many essential foundations. I’ll be very realistic here—there’s much more needed to make a marriage thrive. We’re all witnesses to the struggles and the painful moments of crisis of sickle cell sufferers. We know how their parents strain to cope with the financial demands at times of crisis.

For AS-AS couples who choose to look beyond their genotype and marry for love, the romantic vision they once had is often overshadowed by constant worry, fear, and apprehension. The looming possibility of having a child with sickle cell disease adds significant stress. After having children, the anxiety only deepens, with parents constantly fearing an impending crisis or managing one. This often results in the other children not receiving the care and attention they need, as the focus shifts primarily to the sick child.

Sometimes, the mother has to forfeit most of her dreams and aspirations because she’s always in and out of the hospital. I don’t want to mention the fear, horror, and pain they endure whenever their kids are in the hospital. The hospital becomes the second home of sickle cell kids with their parents. 

These parents hardly have any social life outside their homes and hospitals. The mothers, who are naturally more emotional, tend to be most affected by this.

Now, let’s discuss the pain and agony of sickle cell children. As much as I hate to write about it, we have to do it.  The pain experienced by a sickle cell patient is not only severe but often unpredictable. It can occur when least expected. 

The crisis stems from the sickle-shaped red blood cells that block blood flow, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and causing intense pain. The pain can affect various parts of the body, particularly the bones, joints, chest, and abdomen. It can be acute (lasting hours to days) or chronic (persistent over time). The episodes are triggered by stress, dehydration, cold, or infections. The ensuing pain can be debilitating, leading to hospitalisations and significantly affecting the patient’s quality of life.

As these children grow older, many develop feelings of resentment toward their parents. They feel that their parents prioritised their desires over the potential suffering of their children. Every painful episode and crisis can remind you of choices made without fully considering the long-term consequences. This resentment stems from a sense of betrayal as they bear the physical and emotional toll of a decision that was not theirs. Parents often face this blame, which adds another layer of pain to an already difficult journey.

Parents in this situation are bound to carry the heavy burden of guilt and regret. Some marriages don’t survive the strain, leading to divorce, while others remain intact but with the painful decision to stop having children. 

I’ve seen firsthand the difficult choices couples make, including terminating multiple pregnancies because the babies were predicted to have sickle cell disease. It begs the question—why start down this path in the first place, knowing the potential heartache? No one should have to make these choices, and it’s a reminder of the importance of understanding genetic risks before taking that step.

Dear aspiring couples, Love, while beautiful, is not enough to withstand the many challenges that marriage brings. If both of you carry the AS genotype, I urge you to reconsider your relationship. There are many potential partners out there, and though it may be difficult, stepping away now could save you unimaginable heartache later. Trust me, it’s not worth the pain.

To couples already married with the AS genotype, please think carefully before bringing more children into the world. Consider the immense suffering that comes with sickle cell disease—for both you and your child. Spare them the pain and constant crises. Your love can be expressed in ways that protect their future.

Dear parents of children with sickle cell, my heart goes out to you. As a fellow parent, I can only imagine the trauma, pain, regrets, and difficult choices you face. The physical, financial, and emotional toll can feel overwhelming at times. 

Please remember that this is beyond your control, and you are doing your best for your child. Stay strong and lean on each other for support. Don’t hesitate to seek help from family, and make time for yourselves to recharge. Remember, there’s a life outside the hospital and home—try to socialise and find moments of joy. 

Connect with other parents who understand your journey, learn the best ways to care for your child, and never stop seeking knowledge. Above all, pray for Allah’s guidance and strength. You are not alone, and you will get through this.

Dear sickle cell warrior, please know your parents are deeply feeling your pain. They live with a mix of empathy and guilt, wishing they could take away your suffering. While they can’t change the course of destiny, they are sacrificing so much to ensure you have the care and support you need. Their love for you runs incredibly deep, often even more so because of the battles you face. If they could go back and change things, they would do so in a heartbeat. Always remember that your health and happiness mean the world to them.

The spread of the sickle cell genotype can end in a few generations when we intentionally avoid reproducing that genotype. It is a must for all of us to know our genotype before engaging in any serious relationship with the opposite gender. A stitch in time saves nine.

In my next post on this topic, I will discuss prevailing medical solutions in the management and treatment of sickle celldisease.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology. A wife, a mother, a homemaker, caterer, parenting, and relationship coach. She can be reached via aishamuauyo@live.co.uk.