Opinion

By Murtala Sani

The story of Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo cannot be narrated without weaving greatness with success and mixing niceness with kindness, for he is a character of dignity and simplicity. His life is a hub of imagination and determination, creativity and possibility, humanism and activism because he is a master of generosity and hospitality. Gwarzo’s life style is full of optimism, strength, zeal, courage, tolerance with no iota of hopelessness and laziness as seen in his commitments and achievements.

Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo is an origin of Gwarzo Local Government, Kano State, pursuance of knowledge took him to France where he obtained all his degrees. He held Bachelors degree in French, Masters of Arts in French, PhD in French Linguistics, and then PhD in High Education. This gave him a room to become a Professor of Modern European Languages and also a Professor of Leadership. Obtaining dual Professorship is a feat that only a genius can attain.

Gwarzo became a Professor in his early fourties, coincidentally; he was the President of Protection Rights of Journalists of Africa (PRJA) in his early thirties when he was active in the field of Journalism. At the young age he fought for the rights and freedom of Journalists across Africa.

His passion for business and entrepreneurship opened doors for him to get opportunities in France where he made a huge success. He was the first person that founded bilingual University in Niger Republic, Maryam Abacha American University, Niger (MAAUN) in 2013. Seven years later, Gwarzo founded Maryam Abacha American University, Nigeria, (MAAUN) at Kano in 2021 after two years he founded two more Universities in Nigeria, Franco-British international University, Kaduna and Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja the former is the first Franco-British University in Nigeria.

Therefore, within ten years, Adamu Gwarzo founded four universities making him the first and youngest man that founded four universities in Africa.

Gwarzo is the pioneer President of the Association of African Private Universities due to his dedication to the development of education in Africa. Considering his outstanding contributions to education sector, International Union of Universities in collaboration with Association of African Private Universities gave him an award which serves as commendation to his tireless effort in uplifting education within the African continent.

Again, noticing Gwarzo’s impact on the education sector, International Academic and Management Association (IAMA) inducted him as the Member of its Advisory Board. For the same reason, World Education and Ed Tech 2 awarded him as Innovative Leader in New Delhi, India. These are few out of the numerous awards and honors Gwarzo received from various governmental and non-governmental organizations, national and international associations institutions, schools, communities and students.

The generosity of Adamu Gwarzo led him to establish a foundation with which he can easily touch the lives of many people that are in need of assistance, therefore, Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo Foundation was initiated. The philanthropic activities of the foundation revolve around education health, entrepreneurship, empowerment and provision of infrastructural facilities to communities.

For instance, the foundation donated 66 seater bus to Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil (ADUSTECH), 60 seater bus to Bayero University Kano (BUK) , 66 seater bus to Al-Istiqama University Sumaila, 60 seater bus to Kaduna State Polytechnic and 60 seater bus to Niger University. The foundation also constructed more than one hundred boreholes in Gwarzo Local Government area and some areas within Kano State that were in dire need of water. Again, the foundation undertakes the tasks of giving skills and capital to orphans and masses in order to make them self – reliable considering the economic hardship and the rate of unemployment within the country.

Adamu Gwarzo is an enigma. If you see him dining with the elites today, you may see him feasting with the masses tomorrow. His down-to-earth joyous interactions with the masses make him the hero of the commoners. His capacity gives him the opportunity in rubbing shoulders and shaking hands with African, Arabian and European Presidents despite his young age. No wonder Chinua Achebe said a boy that washes his hand well dine with the elders.

His fluency in Hausa and Yoruba languages, plus his mastery of French and English languages speaks volumes of his intelligence. He is peaceful and tolerant because he is he is neither a racist, nor a tribalist, nor a religious jingoist. Muslims, Christians and Jews have no problem with him as seen in his constant navigation to almost every continent of the world. In his entourage, there is no separation between Sunni and Shi’ite believers, therefore, Qadiriyya, Tijjaniyya, Shi’ites and Izala followers work closely with him without segregation. He embraces the actors, musicians, footballers and all sorts of celebrities or legends that swarm around him without stigma.

Adamu Gwarzo is heterogeneous, as a Pan- African, he named MAAUN’s Senate Building after Nelson Mandela, the former South African President and activist that fought against the subjugation of the black people under Apartheid system of government. He named MAAUN’s President Building after Thomas Sankara, that revolutionist that served as the President of Burkina Faso. He named MAAUN’s Deanry Block after Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and nationalist who fought for the independence of the country. He named MAAUN’s Library after Murtala Ramat Muhammad, the patriotic Nigerian General who was assasinated on power.

Furthermore, as an advocate of girl-child education, he named MAAUN’s Social Centre after Magajiya Danbatta, the legendary female singer who promoted girl-child education in her songs. As a Philanthropist, he named MAAUN’s School of Health Sciences after Aminu Alhassan Dantata, a legendary business man and iconic philanthropist. As a non-partisan, he named MAAUN’s school of Social and Management Science after Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice president of Nigeria and former Nigerian Presidential candidate under PDP. He named the Association of African Private Universities (AAPU) Secretariat Building after Senator Rabiu Musa Kwakwaso, the former Governor of Kano state and former Nigerian presidential candidate under NNPP. He named MAAUN’s School of Law Building after Remi Tinubu, the First lady of the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, who became President under Apc. Reciprocally, streets, buildings and schools were named after him by the communities, institutions and schools that benefitted from his philanthropic gestures.

In appreciation of Adamu Gwarzo’s friendly and kinship relationship with people he interacts with, Sarkin Hausawan Turai, a leader of Hausa community living in Europe turbaned him as Wazirin Sarkin Hausawan Turai. A Hausa community living in Agege, Lagos, turbaned him as the Sarkin Zumunchi of Agege. In Niger Republic, African Aminci Cultural Association Niger crowned him as the Sarkin Yaki da Jahilci na Afrika. This is in tune with his ambition where he stated that his ambition is to sponsor the education of one million people.

Currently, Maryam Abacha Amercan University Nigeria (MAAUN) is the 4TH best private University in Nigeria, 17th in Africa and 854 in the world, according to the AD Scientific Regulatory Ranking Body for global Academic Institutions. The ranking is based on capacity in Research Inputs /Outputs, Quality Teaching Aids (Faculties and Facilities), Conductive Atmosphere of Learning, Internalization and Collaborations, Students /Staff (Academic and Non – Academic), Positive Interpersonal Relationships, Community Services and Support, Human and Infrastructural Developments that fit with global standard.

Murtala Sani writes from Gwarzo Local Government of Kano State. He is also an academic staff of Kano State Polytechnic, Department of Basic and Remedial Studies.

By Imam-Malik Abdullahi Kaga (ACIHRM, CPM, PGD-HRM)

Today, Monday, May 20, 2024, marks International Human Resource Day, a celebration of the vital role HR professionals play in shaping the future of work. As a Certified Personnel Manager, I write to celebrate this special day in line with the theme: Shaping the New Future.

International HR Day was founded by the European Association for People Management (EAPM) and was first observed in 2019. Its aim is to recognise the momentous contributions of HR professionals globally. Prior to this day, the then-Jamaican Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen, proposed the celebration in 2013 but was not successful in bringing the day to life. In 2018, the Jamaican government declared the day.

Since then, it has become an avenue for HR practitioners to come together, share best practices, and discuss the latest trends and challenges by organising webinars, workshops, et al in the industry.

This year’s HR Day is tagged with the theme: Shaping the New Future, and sub-themes of Championing Ethical Tech and AI Integration, Excellence in People Management, Continuous Investment in Skills and Education, Redefining the Future Workplace.

Championing Ethical Tech and AI Integration

The integration of technology and AI has revolutionised the way our department works. However, it also raises important ethical considerations. Despite the increasing reliance on technology and AIs, it’s very important that HR professionals champion ethical practices to ensure these technologies are used responsibly and for the betterment of organisations, companies, and society at large.

This includes implementing AI systems that are transparent, unbiased, and protect employee data privacy.

Excellence in People Management

MSF has this adage: “MSF is People.” HR professionals play a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and developing top talent. At the heart of any successful organisation is its people. This requires a deep understanding of the changing needs and expectations of employees.

By nurturing a culture of excellence in people management, HR can improve employee engagement and create a positive work environment. This involves adopting a holistic approach to talent management, spotting the diverse needs of global labourers, and providing opportunities for growth and development.

Continuous Investment in Skills and Education

The stride of technological change demands that employees continually update their skills to remain relevant. HR invest in education and training programs that arm workers with the skills needed to succeed in their roles. 

This includes providing access to online learning platforms, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. For example, organisations like the MSF have a department called learning and development, where the staff’s KSA are developed. MSF also has a platform called Tembo for its staff to learn and develop. By prioritising continuous learning, HR can future-proof the workforce, initiate innovation, and stay ahead of the competitive world.

As we celebrate International HR Day, we urge all departments in every organisation, whether humanitarian, government, or profit-based, to adapt the culture of continuous learning for professional growth and excellent work outcomes.

Happy International HR Day to the “retention strategists”

Imam-Malik Abdullahi Kaga is a member of the Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management and a Certified Personnel Manager. He writes from Maiduguri and can be reached via imammalikabdullahikaga@gmail.com.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu 

As the rainy season sets in over Jos, the Plateau State capital, residents are cautiously optimistic about relief from the persistent water scarcity that has plagued the city for months. The onset of the rainy season brings a glimmer of hope for the residents of Jos, replenishing parched earth and depleted water sources and offering a reprieve from the relentless struggle for access to clean water.

For many in Jos, the arrival of the rainy season symbolises the prospect of a brighter future. With each drop of rain, the reservoirs begin to fill, easing the burden on communities that have long been forced to endure rationing and scarcity. However, while the rains offer respite, they also underscore the need for sustainable solutions to Jos’s water woes.

The city’s infrastructure must be fortified to harness and manage this precious resource effectively. Investments in water treatment facilities, storage infrastructure, and distribution networks are imperative to ensure every resident can access safe and reliable water year-round.

Moreover, Jos’s challenges are not unique; they reflect broader issues of water scarcity and management that affect communities worldwide. As climate change intensifies, erratic weather patterns and dwindling water supplies pose increasingly urgent threats to global populations. The lessons learned from Jos’s struggle are pertinent not only for Nigeria but for all nations grappling with the repercussions of environmental degradation and resource depletion.

The resilience and resourcefulness of the people of Jos shine through in the face of adversity. Communities come together, sharing resources and supporting one another in times of need. This spirit of solidarity will propel Jos forward towards a future where access to clean water is no longer a luxury but a fundamental human right.

As the rain continues to fall over Jos, let us remember the lessons of the past and the challenges that lie ahead. Let us seize this opportunity to build a more sustainable and equitable future where every individual can thrive, nourished by the life-giving waters that sustain us all.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes from Jos, Plateau state. He can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Rabiu Isah Hassan

Citing the killing of an army officer by bandits in Katsina recently, Sheikh Musa Yusuf Assadussunnah shows the futility of military measures in resolving the pastoralist-peasant conflict in northern Nigeria. By this daring act, the insurgents have demonstrated that the military, much less the vigilante, cannot end the insurgency. According to him, the only solution is a truce. From other sermons by clerics and numerous online items from the conflict area, it appears Assadussunnah is misreading the situation. Not only are the insurgents receiving severe setbacks, but the signs are also ominous. 

The army officer might have been killed not because the troops were weak or ill-equipped but because he exposed himself to unnecessary danger. The way the vigilante and locals praise his determination and commitment suggests he might have been motivated to sacrifice himself for Nigeria and significantly for a Hausa cause. In a way, the prolongation and viciousness of the conflict have started affecting the soldiers on the ground; as in any internal crisis, the armed forces, which are supposed to be neutral, are gradually and inexorably drawn into its vortex.

No group has drawn the wrath of most Nigerian groups, perhaps except for the Igbo during the Nigerian crisis of 1966-1970, like the ethnic Fulani presently. Anti-Fulani sentiments, always simmering below the surface mainly due to perceived historical wrongs, are now erupting due to the current widespread atrocities of mostly pastoral Fulani. An inchoate coalition of mostly Hausa youths and northern minorities is emerging based on shared grievances against the Fulani. Their violent rhetoric, both online and offline, reflects the extent to which the Fulani have slipped down from decent beings and citizens to savages and aliens. No amount of infractions against the ethnic Fulani is seen as grotesque or repugnant.

The troops on the ground and the Hausa vigilante have fused into a hardened armed fist against their perceived enemy. From diverse reports, a discernible pattern is emerging. As the soldiers attack the bandits, the vigilante form their rear, mopping up any stragglers and often dispersing or exterminating ethnic Fulani along their path. The vigilante are also at liberty to arrest, detain, and kill any ethnic Fulani or Hausa informers in an attempt to root out collaborators or destroy the bandits’ supply channels. When the bandits feel the heat, they attack, maim, and kill Hausa peasants randomly. They threaten to stop farming this season, forcing the government and the sedentary population into another truce. This only inflames the soldiers and the vigilante, resulting in more indiscriminate attacks against ethnic Fulani.

Some Islamic clerics still maintain that military operations will not end the insurgency and that the government should negotiate with the bandits to end the bloodletting. These statements make the bandits believe in their invincibility anddangerously encourage them to see their actions as serving an ethnic cause. In a bizarre twist, the bandits have come to link their survival with that of the ethnic Fulani. Since they no longer see themselves as the cause of the Fulani predicament, their removal from the scene is out of the question. This intransigence is further fueling the binary that currently pits the Fulani against the Hausa. Thus, instead of viewing the conflict as occupational and the bandits as criminals, some sections of the ulema have come to regard it as communal, with the insurgents seen as activists.

What some clerics and others fail to appreciate is that both the Hausa-speaking sedentary population of the Northwest and the pastoral Fulani have become one community through centuries of exchange. The pastoral Fulani are essentially an occupational and remnant group continuously absorbed into the general Hausa population. In other words, they do not exist as separate and closed groups. Like similar groups throughout history, the bandits are deviants that have emerged due to internal crises. They need to be tamed or destroyed, not hailed as vanguards of any ethnic group.

With the bandits vowing to fight to the bitter end, they risk dragging the rest of the ethnic Fulani into the abyss with them. The intensity and randomness of their attacks testify to this deranged stance. The indiscriminate reprisals from the other side are making life unbearable for the ethnic Fulani. As the noose tightens around them, there is little chance for their offspring to continue the fight as they hope. A war of attrition would only lead to their decimation; they cannot withstand the combined strength of the Nigerian state and the Nigerian masses. 

Unlike the Igbo, who returned to their homeland following the pogroms in Northern Nigeria, the ethnic Fulani are losing their remaining sanctuaries. If the war becomes protracted or its viciousness intensifies, the country risks sliding into the fate of Mali and Burkina Faso. With the bandits terrorising almost half of the country and the army engaged in fighting them in about a quarter of it, hatred against the Fulani is increasing among the soldiers. 

Like the inchoate movement developing among the ethnic Hausa and northern minorities online, a conspiratorial group with similar configuration and motivation could develop within the army. Given the toxicity across the land and the increasing hardship, they might attempt a putsch. As in Mali and Burkina Faso, where the raison d’être of the juntas is the containment of the Fulani in the case of the former and their destruction in the latter’s case, an idealistic junta in Nigeria would unleash its reign of terror not only against the ethnic Fulani but also against their symbols.

There is only one possible way to avert this Armageddon. Many groups before them have avoided this ruinous outcome. Recently, the Kanuri, who formed the bulk of the supporters of Boko Haram, quietly abandoned their weapons and dispersed among the general population as the magnitude of the catastrophe loomed. The followers of Maitatsine had followed the same course after realising the folly of confronting the state. After valiant resistance against Rabeh at the end of the nineteenth century, many Kanuri surrendered, and others fled. The leaders of the Sokoto Caliphate retreated in the face of superior arms. After their defeat at Burmi, a few withdrew from the territory and eventually submitted to the British authorities in Sudan. At the same time, the majority reconciled themselves to the new order in Northern Nigeria. When the Biafran secessionists realised that their intransigence would only lead to more destruction of the Igbo, they removed themselves from the scene to pave the way for surrender. These were the practical and noble paths taken in Germany and Japan at the end of the Second World War and countless previous conflicts. 

The preservation of the ethnic Fulani must supersede the bandits’ ego, and only surrender would spare their kinsmen from possible destruction. They should give themselves up and be tried in a military tribunal. Like the Nuremberg trials at the end of the Second World War, they must be sentenced based on the gravity of their offences. The minors could be assembled and enrolled in a rehabilitation program. A bold resettlement and integration plan must be rolled out for the pastoral Fulani. Parallel communities should not be allowed to resurface; the pastoralists should be settled among the sedentary population to end mistrust and bigotry. The homogeneous, stable, and prosperous nation that would emerge would be the compensation for these painful sacrifices. 

Rabiu Isah Hassan wrote from the Arewa House/Department of History, ABU Zaria. He can be contacted at rabiurafani@gmail.com.

By Aisha Musa Auyo

Oxford Dictionary defines decision fatigue as a difficulty in making a good decision experienced due to the number of decisions one needs to make. In psychology, decision fatigue is defined as mental and emotional exhaustion due to excessive or relentless decision-making.

According to Bob Pozen, a professor at MIT and author of Extreme Productivity, we make between 10,000 and 40,000 decisions per day, ranging from insignificant to critical.

The figure looks exaggerated, right? I didn’t believe him at first until I started to count the decisions I had made from the moment I woke up, from what to make for breakfast, to which kid to bath first, to which clothes to wear, which shoe or bag, what time to go out, what article to write, to eat before leaving or not, what type of tea to make? To call my siblings after work or before work, to read either a book or a journal, to address a junior colleague or to let it pass, to watch a movie or sleep. If I chose to watch a movie, then which one? The decisions are endless. 

The more energy we spend on mundane tasks, the less we have for the important ones.

Roy F. Baumeister, a social psychologist, developed this theory, arguing that our mental energy diminishes as we make more decisions. The brain’s ability to make decisions wears out over time like a muscle that is used too much.

According to a 2016 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, people find it difficult to make intelligent decisions even after spending hours deliberating. Brain scans revealed a decline in mental energy in the lateral prefrontal cortex, an area crucial for decision-making.

Everyone experiences decision fatigue from time to time. And that’s OK. While we can’t always control the situations that cause our decision fatigue, we can build protective measures into our daily lives to make that fatigue less likely and more manageable

To combat decision fatigue, experts suggest simplifying daily choices as much as possible and learning to manage our mental energy more efficiently. But I’ve summarized a few points that will help us in our day-to-day activities. 

Experts advise making as few decisions as feasible on a daily basis and developing more effective mental energy management techniques to fight decision fatigue. However, I’ve outlined a few things that will support us in our daily tasks. 

1. Take the option out of certain aspects of your life. Prominent decision-makers such as Steve Jobs and Barack Obama have openly discussed how they wear nearly identical outfits every day. Their justification is that there is one less decision to make when it comes to attire. Certain things can be automated, such as your wardrobe choices, the podcast you listen to while commuting, or the type of bread you purchase from the shop. Allow yourself to not be the one who demands perfection.

2. Assign (if you can). You will always have to make some selections. But occasionally, it’s acceptable to delegate tasks to others. They might make a mistake, but so will you! Try to delegate some of the decision-making to your spouse, siblings, or subordinates. They’ll learn how to meet your expectations with time.

3. Make time for self-care. Caring about your own mental health and well-being isn’t selfish. You can’t do what it takes to help others if you aren’t caring for yourself. Having a self-care routine in place can prevent decision fatigue — and make handling it easier if it does happen.

4. Prioritise your sleep. What do people say when presented with difficult decisions? “I’ll sleep on it.” There is a reason for that. Research suggests that humans spend more time deliberating – and making better decisions — early in the day. It also demonstrates that sleep deprivation impairs not just impulse control and emotional management skills but also morality. If you’re going through a particularly decision-heavy period in your life, making an additional effort to get a decent night’s sleep may help you avoid decision fatigue.

5. Schedule downtime into your day. Life can get so hectic that we forget to give our brains a chance to disconnect for a bit. Scheduling downtime, whether it’s watching a series on your phone during your lunch break, listening to Quranic recitation, perusing social media clips, or phoning a buddy who makes you laugh, can help keep your mind charged and ready to make difficult decisions.

6. Exercise. You’ve probably heard that exercise is good for your brain, especially as you get older. But did you know that it can also help you make better decisions? A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise followed by a 3-minute walking break every 30 minutes When combined, they were found to improve executive function.

 If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry: Any exercise is better than no exercise, and long walks can do wonders for your overall mental health.

In sum, decision fatigue is a common issue that affects our decision-making abilities. To manage it, we can simplify routines, delegate tasks, prioritize self-care, schedule downtime, and incorporate exercise. These strategies preserve cognitive resources, enhance well-being, and enable more thoughtful decisions.

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

By Salihi Adamu Takai

The personal anecdote of Robert T. Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad and Rich Dad’s Guide to Investing is alluring. The author’s insatiable appetite for investment doesn’t reveal excessive love for money. Instead, it’s just a guide for future students’ financial capacity. His voracious appetite for investment started when he was based in Huawei and met his friend and his Rich Dad. 

Robert was, of course, a fortune student who graduated from college and got a job with the Marine Corps as a pilot. He was able to survive on $12,000 annually. However,  in 1973, his mindset changed, and he became reluctant to continue working as a self-employed and government employee.

Robert believed that if he didn’t become an investor,  he would continue to be poor like his Poor Dad, who ended up with a paycheck-to-paycheck life. Eventually, he was guided by his Rich Dad. He became a sophisticated investor as he planned it — learning from his Rich Dad.

Investments vary as the business does. Since Rich Dad refused to let Robert invest in his business due to a lack of funds, it taught him that before investing with people, ensure you are financially and educationally equal to them. Robert didn’t have the minimum amount of $35,000 to invest in Rich Dad’s business, which disqualified him.

Therefore, as a university student, you must be open-minded and never limit your thoughts on becoming a self-employed or government employee (working with the government!). Try to be optimistic about money and believe that it’s simple to invest.

When you think that money is difficult to get, it will be difficult for you to become rich. Save your little income to invest it, starting a business with an open mind.

Salihi Adamu Takai wrote via salihiadamu8888@gmail.com.

By Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi

Consistency is the cornerstone upon which success is built. Whether in the pursuit of knowledge or the journey of life, maintaining a steady and persistent effort can make all the difference between mediocrity and excellence. While intelligence undoubtedly plays a significant role in achieving success, it is consistency that truly sets apart those who reach their goals from those who fall short.

In the realm of knowledge acquisition, consistency is paramount. It’s not just about having a sharp mind or innate talent; it’s about consistently honing one’s skills through regular practice and learning. The adage “practice makes perfect” rings true here. No matter how intelligent someone may be, without consistent effort, their knowledge will stagnate, and their abilities will diminish over time.

Consider the example of a student preparing for an exam. A brilliant mind may grasp complex concepts quickly, but without consistent studying and revision, that knowledge will fade, and the student may struggle to perform well on the exam. On the other hand, a student who diligently commits to a consistent study routine, reviewing materials regularly and seeking to understand rather than memorize, is more likely to excel.

Furthermore, consistency breeds discipline. By establishing a routine and sticking to it, individuals cultivate the self-discipline necessary to overcome obstacles and stay focused on their goals. This discipline extends beyond academic pursuits and permeates every aspect of life. Whether it’s maintaining a healthy lifestyle, pursuing personal passions, or striving for career advancement, consistency is the driving force behind progress.

In the realm of personal development, consistency is equally crucial. Take, for example, the pursuit of physical fitness. A person who sporadically exercises whenever they feel like it is unlikely to see significant results. However, someone who commits to a consistent workout schedule, showing up day in and day out, will gradually build strength, endurance, and overall fitness levels.

Consistency also plays a vital role in cultivating healthy habits and breaking detrimental ones. Whether it’s practising mindfulness, saving money, or nurturing relationships, small, consistent actions compounded over time lead to significant results. By making a conscious effort to consistently engage in positive behaviours, individuals can reshape their lives and create lasting change.

Moreover, consistency fosters resilience. Inevitably, setbacks and challenges will arise on the path to success. It’s during these times that consistency becomes a beacon of hope, reminding individuals to stay the course and persevere despite adversity. Those who have developed the habit of consistency are better equipped to weather the storms of life and emerge stronger on the other side.

In conclusion, consistency is the linchpin of success in both knowledge and life. While intelligence and talent certainly play a role, it is the consistent effort and unwavering commitment to improvement that ultimately determine one’s trajectory. By cultivating discipline, persistence, and resilience, individuals can harness the power of consistency to achieve their goals and fulfil their potential. So, let us embrace the mantra of consistency, knowing that it is the key that unlocks the door to success in all endeavours.

Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi wrote from Kaduna via prof4true1@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

Since 2007, when the two-term tenure of Fourth Republic governors ended, one godfather crisis or another has occurred. The outgoing clung on to the anointing for several reasons: influence in godson administration, protection from their misgovernance, or, last and least for many godfathers, continuity (although it is the most important factor for good governance). 

The surprising succession crisis brewing recently involved Uba Sani and Nasir El-Rufai. It was unexpected because El-Rufai did not appear to be interfering with the Kaduna government. Unlike Wike, El-Rufai, known for reading and writing books, might have learned the lesson from previous cases, but Sani took the fight to his door. 

Uba Sani shook the table when, in a town hall meeting (apparently held to burst the bubble), he lamented the burden of loans he inherited and decried the lack of money not only for infrastructure development but also for threatening the state’s ability to meet its current expenditures.

That outburst was followed by mixed reactions. Some commentators point to hindsight, stating that it was their prophecy that came to pass. But for some, it was a big trouble for Uba Sani because, according to this category, he was given the green light to become a senator for one thing: to pave the way for getting the loan. So, this category sees Uba Sani as an accomplice rather than a victim. They unearthed his videos eulogising El-Rufai, which trended. 

The double trouble for Sani was that the effect of the loss was visible in Kaduna state, so wowing the public became an uphill task. However, the current dollar-to-naira exchange rate compared to when the loan was secured is rather unfortunate.

 One primary beneficiary of this situation is Shehu Sani. The former senator of Kaduna Central used the situation to settle scores. He took the case on social media, profiling himself vindicated. 

On the contrary, a Nigerian figure who will be taken aback by the looming political crisis in Kaduna state is his eminent Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. During the KADINVEST 7.0, SLM extols marvellous achievements in Lagos state thanks to the continuity. 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu laid the foundation for the modern Lagos state, which Fashola built upon. When Ambode came continued, but when he wanted to digress, it cost him his second term ticket (this can happen in Lagos, where a serving governor failed a primary election); the fruit of continuity is just bearing fruit in Lagos state under Babajide Sonwo-Olu. 

Uba Sani was shown nodding his head in belief during the SLS lecture. I told myself that Kaduna is lucky because if Uba Sani could only service the debt and continue with some uncompleted buildings, Kaduna would be great. 

El-Rufai remained quiet in the saga, unlike his disquieted son Bashir El-Rufai, who was a junior to Bello El-Rufai. Several commentators confuse Bashir with Bello- the current serving house Rep. The latter was cut between the devil and the deep blue sea, he recently gave an interview in which he eulogised Uba Sani as his mentor, mentioning how Sani paved the way for him, not his father. He even mentioned something philosophical: if anyone wants to go far, he can’t dare join issues with his master; someone aware of this philosophy must be tied down between supporting his father or his boss.

A theory explaining Sani’s outburst with El-Rufai was that the former was being cajoled by the presidency. With no love lost between El-Rufai and the presidency, he must part ways with his boss.  

Apart from the godfather himself, loyalties are a major factor fanning the flames of discord. The outgoing lieutenant’s influence will be hanging in the balance while the new government loyalties stampede to establish their loyalty to the new government. It becomes a struggle for survival. 

In the reactionary salvo that Kaduna state women leaders fire on Uba Sani, reading in-between the line, one could easily figure out self-serving because she decried how Sani has not been responding to her requests.

 The leaders involved in such a situation are in a delicate balance. They need deliberate effort to piece together the puzzle (provided that it is not too late); otherwise, the matter will blow out of proportion.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Saifullahi Attahir Wurno 

The word success always carries a nostalgic feeling throughout history. It’s a word that everyone wants to associate with, and it can be seen as fulfilling one’s desire to live a happier, easier, contented life.

Many people ask what causes success. The only answer is hard work, but is hard work really the answer to success? We daily encounter people who are more hardworking than us but who are a hundred times below us in terms of success or living a comparatively easy life.

This article is based on Malcolm Gladwell’s book The Outliers: The Story of Success. The author tries to gather all the apparent and hidden factors that led to the monumental achievement of a few individuals, including athletes, footballers, artists, businessmen, prominent law practitioners, scientists, doctors, and more. 

Outlier is an English word that means someone outside the normal frame, people who have achieved tremendous success and fortune beyond average individuals. Examples include Lionel Messi in football, Bill Gates in computer, Dr Ben Carson in medicine, Usain Bolt in sports, outstanding political leaders in history, writers, etc.

The author concluded that outliers are those who have been given opportunities and who have had the strength and presence of mind to seize them. Most outliers are products of history, of the community in which they were born and raised, of opportunity, and of legacy.

Here is a story:

Ahmad was born in 1995 to a low-income family in Kafin Hausa town. His father’s sources of income are peasant farming and radio repair. His mother was a housewife who mainly depended on her husband for her daily needs and those of her children.

This family of 7 was completely dependent on their father’s meagre income and the small farm that Ahmad always accompanied his father to whenever he went on holidays. This taught Ahmad the habit of hard work early in life.

His father had a primary school level of education, while his mother had good Islamic knowledge but had not attended Western education. This motivated Ahmad to be very passionate about studying higher and becoming someone later in life. 

Ahmad lacks the luxury that may distract his attention; his father’s constant advice and natural ingenuity make him a bright child in primary school. He surpasses his classmates. He finishes top of his class and is admitted into the prestigious Science Secondary school Kafin Hausa.

At school, Ahmad met other young, ambitious, and bright students from all over the state, giving him the opportunity to network, learn, and challenge himself to further academic excellence.

In 2013, at 18, Ahmad graduated from GSSS Kafin Hausa with seven credits in his WAEC result (including all five science subjects). Luckily enough, the government of that period under Alhaji Sule Lamido requested students who have five credits and above in WAEC to submit their papers for scholarship screening.

To cut the story short, Ahmad got a Scholarship to Study Aviation Engineering in Egypt. He graduated successfully and secured a job with a big Airline company in Lagos. From then on, his life and destiny changed forever.

 Using the above story, let us analyse some of the factors that lead to young Ahmad’s success;

Studies have shown that family background plays a critical role in how people are raised and what they end up becoming. Despite his parents’ lack of deeper knowledge of Western education, they have inculcated a strong desire for their children to excel.

Another advantage of the family background was the lack of luxury, which helped Ahmad be less distracted and more focused on his studies. Imagine if he had been born into an affluent family surrounded by television, watching cartoons or comedies daily, or his father had been into the habit of buying them mobile phones and other game gadgets. Definitely, that would have distracted his attention, making him less energetic and determined to escape the poverty line.

Good networking was essential for attaining success in life. Ahmad’s interaction with other boys with similar interests, ambitions, and determination while studying at GSSS Kafin Hausa played a monumental role in catapulting him higher on the ladder of success. If he had been brilliant enough but had graduated from one local and poorly equipped secondary school, the story might have been different.

Right timing was also an important factor; had it been Ahmad graduated a year or two before Lamido started awarding the scholarship, no matter how brilliant or the excellence of his SSCE, he might have ended up studying in one of the local colleges of Education or polytechnic.

Of course, success occurs most often when preparation meets opportunity. God has guided Ahmad to prepare well for his exams and classes, reading the extra mile, reading past questions, and networking with the right people. So, when the time for the WAEC and the Scholarship exam came, he was unaware, so he excelled.

Many people only wish to succeed but never prepare ahead of time. In the end, remember that Success is Ultimately THE GRACE OF GOD, whose benevolence gathers all the above factors to work for you when he decides for you to succeed at something.

Saifullahi Attahir Wurno is a medical student at Federal University, Dutse. He can be reached via saifullahiattahir93@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Former Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung, recounts his harrowing near-death experience at a hospital in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

Dalung reveals that he fell ill on Wednesday and was rushed to the hospital, where he lost consciousness shortly after undergoing doctor’s interviews.

In a post shared via X on Friday, Dalung recounted being admitted to the emergency ward but left unattended for over four hours due to non-payment of admission deposits.

He shared how he regained partial consciousness and managed to make the necessary deposit before receiving medical attention.

“I took ill on Wednesday, arrived at the hospital, and shortly became unconscious after doctor’s interviews.

“I was ferried into the emergency ward but abandoned for over four hrs due to non-payment of admission deposits.

“Regained partial consciousness and later did the transfer of deposit,” he revealed.

“After that,” he continued, “I fell into unconsciousness again for about seven hours.

“To God be the glory, I have been discharged after three days and recovering. Were it not for partial consciousness to pay the deposits, I would have been Mr. late.

“Many Nigerians have gone this way. Where is our humanity?” Dalung added, highlighting the urgency for better healthcare accessibility and compassion towards patients in need,” he said.