Opinion

By Harajana Umar Ragada

It all began with a small lump on her left breast. Over time, it grew larger with each passing day. Concerned, her husband took her to the hospital, where they were informed that a minor surgery was necessary. The doctor assured them of its safety and that she would go home immediately after the procedure.

However, an elderly woman approached her with a warning. She advised against allowing anyone to touch her breast at such a young age, claiming it was too risky. Unfortunately, she heeded the woman’s advice, ignoring her husband’s attempts to convince her otherwise. Instead, she returned home and relied on local herbs, hoping for a cure.

To her dismay, the condition worsened and developed into cancer. She underwent numerous treatments, including chemotherapy. I watched as she silently suffered, fervently praying for her quick recovery. However, she eventually succumbed to the illness after a lengthy stay at the hospital. She left behind three children, with the youngest just weaned off due to the mother’s illness.

Her death deeply affected me and shed light on the lack of awareness among many women about breast cancer, its preventive measures, predisposing factors, and signs to look out for.

According to findings from the World Health Organisation (WHO), in Nigeria alone, over 10,000 women die annually from cancer-related issues, with approximately 250,000 new cases recorded every year. These numbers are alarming, prompting me to contemplate how I could help.

That’s when I discovered Raise Foundation, an organisation dedicated to providing free cancer screening, raising awareness about breast cancer, and supporting patients through their journey, founded by the wife of the former Niger State Governor, Haj. Amina Abubakar Bello.

In an interaction with the CEO of Raise Foundation, Mrs Toyin Dauda, she disclosed that their mission is to create awareness and opportunities for women and girls, allowing them to realise their full potential in a safe environment for pregnancy and childbirth. They aim to empower women to make informed decisions and seize available opportunities.

“We established the Raise Foundation in 2015, and we are proud to have the first breast and cervical cancer screening centre in Niger State. Additionally, we conduct outreach programs in hard-to-reach areas, where we screen women and educate them about breast cancer. We promote early detection and offer assistance to those diagnosed with cervical or breast cancer,” She affirmed.

Mrs.Toyin further explained that the screening is completely free of charge. Their healthcare professionals use gloves for examination, and if they identify any abnormalities or lumps, the woman will need to undergo a scan, which costs ₦4000. For women over 35, a mammography is recommended, priced at ₦10,000.

However, during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they provide all these services for free. Operating from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mrs Toyin urged women not to wait for the designated month but to seek screenings earlier. The foundation also guides self-breast exams.

Moreover, the Raise Foundation offers financial support for breast cancer patients. Rather than giving patients money directly, they cover the costs and provide receipts. They have partnerships that help fund their initiatives, allowing them to support women across Nigeria. Mrs Toyin appealed to governments, organisations, and individuals to contribute funds as the number of patients rose.

Furthermore, the program coordinator for Raise Foundation, Dr Fatima Tafida, emphasised the importance of understanding the risk factors associated with breast cancer and taking action to address them. She highlighted the risk factors, the consequences, the signs and symptoms, preventive measures, and how to perform self-breast exams.

According to Dr Fatima, the risk factors include being female, as breast tissue is present, an increasing trend of breast cancer among younger women (even as young as 25 years), early onset of menstruation, late menopause, not having been pregnant or breastfed, family history of breast cancer, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet or obesity.

She added that cancer is a significant threat as it impacts individuals socially, physically, emotionally, and financially. 

“Signs and symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type. The most common sign is the presence of a small lump in the breast, which may or may not be painful. Other indicators include the growth of the lump, cracks on the nipples, or the presence of bloody or Clear discharge. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware that they have cancer until it has progressed.

“To prevent cancer, there are several measures that can be taken. Firstly, creating awareness about the disease and its risk factors is crucial. Secondly, modifying one’s lifestyle by quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption is essential. Additionally, individuals who are obese should aim to lose weight and incorporate regular exercise into their routine. Maintaining a balanced diet is also important in preventing cancer. Conducting regular self-breast exams is recommended for those with a family history of the disease. Lastly, performing self-breast exams at the end of the menstrual cycle can help in the early detection of any abnormalities.” She stressed.

Dr Fatima Tafida also underlined the importance of regular self-breast exams. She provided step-by-step instructions on how to perform a self-exam for early detection. 

She advised standing in front of a mirror with the left hand raised above the head. Using the fingers of the right hand, one should palpate the whole breast, pressing the nipple and checking for any cracks or nipple discharge, be it bloody or clear. The person should then move their hand under the armpits and check for enlarged lymph nodes. 

Dr. Fatima also highlighted signs to look out for, such as an orange peel appearance of the skin, one breast being bigger than the other, nipple retraction, or sores around the breast or nipples. These indicators could suggest a problem, and medical attention should be sought immediately. 

She stressed the importance of early detection and shared the example of Angelina Jolie, who underwent a double mastectomy after testing positive for a breast cancer gene due to her family history.

For women over the age of 40, Dr. Fatima underscored the importance of getting a yearly mammogram. She advised against relying solely on herbal medicines and encouraged sticking to scientifically proven methods of treatment and prevention. She said teenagers should be aware and proactive in screening themselves. While adding that wearing bras made from secondhand clothes, often of European origin, does not increase any chance of having breast cancer.

In conclusion, Dr. Fatima appealed to society to show kindness and support to breast cancer patients. She highlighted the high costs associated with treating breast cancer and urged governments, NGOs, and individuals to provide assistance and support to these patients.

The Raise Foundation has received heartfelt gratitude from beneficiaries who have received free treatment and support. One patient expressed her appreciation, acknowledging that she would not have been able to afford the treatment without the foundation’s help. Another beneficiary thanked the foundation and called on the state government, NGOs, and individuals to support breast cancer patients.

As breast cancer continues to devastate lives, we must come together and fight it collectively. Let us join hands in raising awareness, providing support, and working towards a future where breast cancer no longer exists.

Harajana Umar Ragada wrote via kharajnah@gmail.com. 

By Muhammed Sodangi

Let me begin with the famous saying of the South African anti-apartheid revolutionary leader, Nelson Mandela, who said, “It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.”

On August 23, 2023, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, approved the payment of ₦700 million to 7,000 Kano indigenous students at Bayero University, Kano.

This commendable gesture has put smiles on the faces of a great number of students who were utterly struggling for the survival of their academic pursuits at the time.

Under your stewardship, Your Excellency, approximately 550 indigent students from Kano State were sponsored to travel overseas for a master’s scholarship program.

Thus, it is a clear testimony that the education sector has been prioritized by investing heavily in the future leaders of our state.

However, students studying at various universities outside the state risk deferment or withdrawal for not settling their tuition fees as promised by the Kano State government.

On March 2, 2024, the Kano governor held a meeting with the “Joint Consultative Forum of Kano Universities Students” to address the lingering issue regarding the payment of their tuition fees.

A few days later, a screening team from the scholarship board was dispatched to various universities, but no progress has been recorded yet.

Your Excellency, many students have missed tests and are on the brink of missing exams. We are thus calling on your intervention as soon as possible.

Thank you.

 By Haroon Aremu

Artificial intelligence (AI) is involved in everyday tasks, especially using smartphones or laptops to check message spellings, using voice commands for music, or following GPS directions. While these tools have existed, modern AI is much more advanced. It can not only complete tasks but also learn and improve its abilities by analysing information, making it even more powerful.

With its remarkable ability to think like a human and tackle everything from brainstorming to strategic planning, AI has become an indispensable ally in PR, reshaping how professionals craft their messages.

AI is a versatile powerhouse that can perform tasks such as generating innovative ideas and crafting tailor-made press releases and reports.

AI in PR is an especially exciting area. With tools ranging from traditional chatbots to cutting-edge, comprehensive platforms like Natural Language Generation (NLG) technology, PR pros can now create personalised content at lightning speed, paving the way for big-picture thinking and strategic approaches.

In a report by PRDaily and Accesswire, about 200 PR respondents were captioned. ‘59% seek predictive analytics for PR planning.’

Pundits argued that ChatGPT, the AI wizard that has revolutionised PR, is among the commonly used AI tools. With ChatGPT’s prompt input, tasks like building media lists and brainstorming content ideas have never been easier.

American Marketing AI Institute has also predicted that AI has created up to $2.6 trillion in business value in marketing and sales alone.

While incredibly powerful, AI is not 100% perfect and does not have emotions; it can also be inaccurate.

However, while AI may be a distraction, one thing remains abundantly clear: human connection is irreplaceable. After all, no machine can match the warmth and empathy of a genuine human interaction.

Meanwhile, AI and human interaction make the team’s dream easier. The deployment of both can boost efficiency and creativity and drive strategy. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, PR pros must embrace these changes wisely, leveraging technology as a tool to supercharge their skills and deliver impactful communication strategies by leveraging AI to streamline PR workflows in the digital age.

As an intern in PR and marketing communications, the influence of this field is undeniable. From advanced analytics to content generation, PR pros can deploy this tool to evaluate strategic decisions accurately.

Personalised marketing campaigns can also be deployed to elevate customer engagement, increase conversion rates and customer interactions, and enhance brand loyalty.

Notwithstanding, implementing AI also comes with challenges: data privacy concerns and the need for ongoing algorithm refinement present struggles requiring proactive solutions. Yet, these obstacles can be overcome through collaborative efforts and a willingness to adapt.

Haroon Aremu is a youth corps member with the PRNigeria centre and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad 

The Adamawa state government has procured the world-famous Blue Bird school buses to shuttle pupils and students to and from schools within metropolitan and town areas across all 21 local government areas of the state. 

The Adamawa Model aims to achieve four targets: firstly, to serve as a palliative measure for students and their parents to cushion the effects of the removal of petroleum subsidies and the rising cost of living; secondly, to sustain the state’s achievements in mopping up out-of-school children from the streets; thirdly, to maintain the security enjoyed by the public in the state; and fourthly, to support Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s programme of productive job creation, local industry support, and the Adamawa urban renewal programme, including utilisation of today’s available resources for tomorrow’s future.

Blue Bird buses have proven to be the most preferred and frequently used transportation system for students, pupils, and even teachers in many countries. Studies have shown that the school bus system is the safest, cheapest, and most organised method of transporting students to and from schools.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s developmental programmes and projects are interconnected; they don’t occur in isolation. The school shuttle buses project complements the success of the Fresh Air Metro Bus Scheme, a palliative transportation system for the masses, and aligns with education sector improvement and modernisation.

On January 25, Governor Fintiri officially launched the construction of the model nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools across all 21 local government areas of the state. Additionally, the Governor plans to build comprehensive one-in-all mega secondary schools, two in each of the three senatorial districts of the state.

These projects and schemes are also designed to complement the Adamawa state government urban renewal programme, which includes the construction of infrastructure such as great interchanges, the Aliyu Mustapha flyover, the ongoing Mubi Round flyover, the superhighway, and the township roads in Jimeta-Yola and other local government areas.

Furthermore, Governor Fintiri’s programmes and projects are always designed using ‘the science’ of resource management and distribution. On March 8, 2024, the Governor launched an empowerment programme to support 10,000 women and youth with 50,000 naira each for small business development.

Furthermore, the Blue Bird buses, with a capacity of 50–100 students per bus, will reduce traffic congestion. The benefits of school buses, globally accepted, include keeping students punctual and active, fostering responsibility, providing peace of mind for parents, and being economically beneficial.

Despite dissenting voices, particularly within the opposition, experts in transport and education have highlighted the enormous multiplier effects of school shuttle buses. Besides ensuring pupil safety, parents will experience relief in transportation costs, leading to increased enrollment in schools and job creation for drivers, fuel station operators, and bus managers.

During the ceremony of the Call to Bar of his daughter, Barr Fa’iza, at the Body of Benchers Complex Abuja, Governor Fintiri said his administration will continue to maintain its interconnection of programmes and projects for his government to continue to address the needs of various sectors simultaneously while demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive governance.

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

By Aishat M. Abisola

Over the years, Nigeria has dealt with a profound crisis plaguing its healthcare system, exacerbated by the alarming rate of brain drain among its highly skilled medical professionals. Nigeria’s health sector is precarious as doctors, nurses, and other essential healthcare personnel depart for greener pastures abroad.

A closer look reveals a critical factor fueling brain drain, harming our health sector. The consequences of this phenomenon are dire. It has led to a shortage of healthcare professionals, compromising the overall quality of healthcare services in Nigeria.

One key reason for the brain drain in the Nigerian health sector is chronic underfunding, which results in dilapidated infrastructure and insufficient resources. Healthcare facilities in the country also suffer from a lack of modern equipment, outdated technology, and inadequate supplies.

Motivated by their desire to provide high-quality care, healthcare professionals flee to countries with well-maintained and adequately resourced healthcare infrastructure.

Brain drain can also be linked to the frustration healthcare professionals experience due to a lack of basic tools and resources necessary for their work. Insufficient funding for maintaining and upgrading healthcare facilities creates an environment that fails to attract and retain skilled professionals.

Funding issues in the Nigerian health sector have led to inadequate remuneration and poor working conditions for healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses are often given meagre salaries, delayed payments, and a lack of essential benefits despite their importance in society.

The financial strain, coupled with challenging working conditions, can serve as a powerful motivator for them to seek opportunities abroad, where they can be better compensated and work in more conducive environments.

Several organisations in Nigeria have lamented funding issues and poor remuneration of our healthcare personnel. The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have organised strikes and issued ultimatums to the federal government to improve the nation’s health sector.

Last year, NARD asked the federal government to declare a state of emergency for the health sector. The NMA also spoke out against the federal government’s decision to implement a no-work, no-pay plan in response to an indefinite strike by NARD.

The lack of funding allocated to training and development programs within the Nigerian health sector also contributes to the brain drain crisis. Healthcare professionals want to seek continuous learning opportunities and career advancement. However, insufficient funds for training limit their growth within the country.

The scarcity of adequate professional development investments harms local talent retention. It encourages healthcare professionals to pursue opportunities abroad, where they can further their education and skill sets.

A united effort is needed to address funding challenges and combat brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector. Boosting investments in healthcare can create an environment that will retain and lure back skilled professionals. The federal and state governments can implement some of these strategies to mitigate the impact of brain drain:

Remuneration Improvements: Increase healthcare professionals’ salaries and benefits to make them more competitive on an international scale. Ensure timely salary payments address concerns about delayed payments, a common issue among healthcare workers.

Enhanced Working Conditions: Allocate sufficient funds to improve healthcare facilities, ensuring modern and well-maintained conditions, comfortable accommodations, and safe working environments—investment in technology and equipment to ensure that healthcare professionals have access to state-of-the-art tools and resources.

Investment in Training and Development: Funds should be allocated for continuous professional development programs to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals.
Establish partnerships with educational institutions to provide healthcare workers with ongoing training and learning opportunities.

Research and Innovation Grants: Create funding for local medical research and innovations to attract professionals interested in making healthcare advancements. Provide research grants to healthcare professionals, encouraging them to stay in Nigeria while pursuing groundbreaking research.

Infrastructure Development: Allocate funds for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of healthcare infrastructures (hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities). Equip healthcare facilities with modern technology and the resources to provide quality patient care.

Telemedicine and E-Health Initiatives: Allocate funds for telemedicine and e-health initiatives to enhance the accessibility and appeal of healthcare services to professionals. Invest in technology infrastructure to support telehealth services, reducing the need for healthcare workers to relocate physically.

Community Engagement and Support: Fund community programs to raise awareness about the importance of healthcare professionals in local communities. Establish support networks and incentives for healthcare professionals, including housing assistance, transportation, and other benefits.

Long-Term Strategic Planning: Implement and develop long-term plans for the healthcare sector, ensuring sustained and increased funding over time. Regularly assess funding needs and adjust budget allocations to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

Last line

Undeniably, the brain drain crisis in Nigeria’s health sector is strongly linked to constant funding challenges over the years. Concrete efforts and strategic investments in the healthcare system are essential to reverse this trend.

Adequate funding can improve infrastructure, enhance working conditions, and provide opportunities for professional growth, ultimately stemming the tide of skilled professionals leaving the country.

By addressing the root causes of brain drain through increased funding, Nigeria can build a more resilient and sustainable healthcare sector that meets the needs of its population.

Aishat M. Abisola is an NYSC member serving with PRNigeria Centre Abuja.

By Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi

For non-native English speakers, grasping the subtleties and complexities of the English language can be a challenging endeavour. From its extensive vocabulary to its subtle nuances, English often presents itself as a maze of words and meanings. One such term that encapsulates the intricacies of English is “ass.”

On the surface, “ass” may seem straightforward, merely referring to the buttocks. However, a deeper examination reveals a plethora of meanings and subtleties that make it one of the most intriguing words in the English lexicon.

At its core, “ass” serves as a versatile modifier, adding emphasis or altering the meaning of a word or phrase. For example, “lazy ass” intensifies the descriptor “lazy,” emphasizing the extent of laziness. Similarly, “long ass” emphasizes the prolonged nature of something.

Yet, the true complexity of “ass” lies in its ability to completely change the connotation of a word when used as a suffix. Consider the term “badass.” While “bad” typically carries a negative connotation, suffixing it with “ass” transforms it into a term of admiration or respect, describing someone bold, daring, or impressive. Conversely, “dumb ass” retains its negative connotation, highlighting someone’s foolishness or lack of intelligence.

Moreover, “ass” can function as a pronoun, symbolizing oneself or one’s possessions. Phrases like “move your ass” convey urgency or impatience, urging swift action. However, expressions like “fast my ass” and “my ass” serves as a dismissive retort, rejecting the validity of a statement or claim.

The complexity of “ass” extends further as it can be subdivided into smaller components, each carrying its unique significance. Being “an ass” implies exhibiting foolish or irrational behaviour, while being “half-ass” suggests a lack of thoroughness or attention to detail. Additionally, being described as “a piece of ass” is colloquially lauding someone’s physical attractiveness.

In essence, “ass” is a linguistic chameleon, adeptly adapting to diverse contexts and conveying a myriad of meanings. Its versatility and complexity mirror the richness and depth of the English language, showcasing the infinite possibilities for expression and interpretation.

Thus, when encountering the word “ass” in conversation or media, acknowledge its multifaceted nature and the layers of meaning it embodies. Understanding and appreciating the complexity of “ass” not only underscores the richness of the English language but also provides insight into the cultural nuances and subtleties of American English.

Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi can be contacted via prof4true@gmail.com.

By Umar Sani

In the intricate tapestry of Nigerian politics, nepotism is often woven deep into the fabric of governance. Recent events surrounding Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, popularly known as “Abba Gida Gida,” and Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje illuminate a troubling pattern of favouritism and cronyism that continues to plague the nation’s political landscape.

In a move reminiscent of his predecessor, Abba Kabir Yusuf has nominated Mustapha Kwankwaso, the son of his godfather Engr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, for a commissioner position. This decision raises eyebrows, echoing past criticisms of Ganduje’s administration, where appointments seemed to prioritise personal connections over merit.

Such actions underscore a disturbing reality: the entrenched culture of nepotism in Nigerian politics, where loyalty to political dynasties often outweighs competence and merit. While the faces may change, the playbook remains eerily similar, perpetuating a cycle of patronage that undermines the principles of accountability and good governance.

The parallels between Abba Kabir Yusuf and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. Despite differing affiliations, both governors have succumbed to the temptation of nepotism, prioritising the interests of elites and families over the welfare of the broader populace.

This nepotistic trend erodes public trust in the political system and exacerbates social and economic inequalities. When positions of power are monopolised by a select few, talented individuals from marginalised communities are denied opportunities for advancement, further entrenching the status quo of privilege and exclusion.

As the nation navigates its democratic journey, it is imperative to confront and address the scourge of nepotism head-on. Transparent and merit-based governance systems must be championed, where appointments are made based on qualifications rather than personal relationships.

Moreover, robust mechanisms for accountability and oversight are essential to ensure public officials are held accountable for their actions. Civil society organisations, independent media, and vigilant citizens play a crucial role in exposing and challenging instances of nepotism and corruption, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in governance.

Ultimately, the fate of Nigerian politics rests in the hands of its citizens. By demanding accountability, transparency, and a commitment to the common good, Nigerians can pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future, free from the shackles of nepotism that have privileged few.

Umar Sani Adamu (Kawun Baba) wrote via umarhashidu1994@gmail.com.

Baffa Kabiru Gwadabe, PhD

When I first saw the news, I was overwhelmed by the efforts of Mr. Cardoso as the apex Bank Governor trying to stabilize the Naira. In the news cover, it was reported that “the Presidency has warned Forex speculators to discard their Dollars, saying that the Naira will soon appreciate”. But the above statement was said to be made by the President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, through his Twitter (now X) handle on Thursday 21 March, 2024.

Mr. Onanuga urged Dollar speculators to quickly dump their Dollars to avoid ‘tears’ that may ensue after continued appreciation of the Naira. Mr. Onanuga was reacting to the recent disclosure by the CBN that it had cleared $7 billion foreign exchange backlog inherited by the Bank.

The development was confirmed by the CBN’s Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali. According to her, the CBN had employed the services of Deloitte consult as an independent audit company to judiciously assess the forex backlog claims and all valid claims based on the recommendations of the company were settled by the Bank. She further indicated that all invalid claims or transactions were referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation.

Similarly, the above efforts, coupled with others such as the seeming ‘credibility of the CBN’ in keeping to its policies have made the Naira to appreciate to some levels and also to the rise in Nigeria’s foreign reserve to $34.11 billion early this month, which is almost the highest recorded since the last 8 months. This is welcoming for Nigeria as import-dependent economy and led Mr. Onanuga to talk to speculators in his tone of ‘Dump Your Dollars’. The ‘dumping of the Dollars’ is my point of entry from which I want to make some remarks.

Let me start by saying or informing Mr. Onanuga that the Dollar crisis in Nigeria is beyond speculations. To a greater extent, it is an issue of ‘store of wealth or value’ using the Forex, specifically the US Dollar. Many Nigerians that had the opportunity of accumulation of ‘large wealth’, try their ways in ‘safe-keeping’ same by converting certain amounts of Naira to the Dollar or other major currencies like the Euro, the Sterling Pounds etc. This has remained the practice in the country and has reached the extent of what I called the ‘unconscious journey’ or the ‘hardened behaviour’ of not seeing the Naira as any promising currency that is stable. In other words, the Naira will always keep depreciating.

With the kinds of policy efforts by the CBN and the Federal Government, this behaviour or trend may have its last gate. What I am saying, in short, is that the practice of scouting and safe-keeping of the Dollar at whatever rate to keep in ‘graveyards’, ‘underground safe-tanks’, ‘security safes’, ‘travelling bags or brief cases’, ‘laundering overseas’ and ‘deposits in commercial banks’ to mention but a few storage strategies of the Dollars may be curtailed.

I now ask some questions regarding the calls for ‘dumping’ by Mr. Onanuga. If Nigerians that had scouted and stored the Dollars were to repent and bring out some or all of their stored Dollars, where should they dump them? Is the dumping ground ‘safe’ without creating a new round of speculations and corruption? Are the dumpers ‘safe’ from stigmatization and punishment? Are the dumping sites going to be the CBN like during the New-Old Naira notes swap, the commercial banks or the BDCs or new hubs? Will the Dollar holders be allowed to spend the Dollars domestically for their transactions? The questions are many and could go on and on, but I stopped at just number 5, as other people may ask some more questions.

For some of the questions asked above, the answers may be very clear, just like the water colour in the day time. All that is needed in answering those questions is for the CBN and the Presidency to be more proactive and strategic enough in handling the long-standing crisis of the Dollar. This is just to say that there is a better need for change of strategies and operations.

The duo should greatly be reminded of the popular saying that ‘once-beaten, twice shy’. I hope to focus specifically on providing only 2 answers based on my little understanding and focus of the rejoinder, the ‘dumping of the Dollar’ and the ‘domestic spending of the Dollar (dollarization)’.

The dumping should strictly be accommodated by the CBN and new accredited dealers or service providers that are trustworthy other than commercial banks or the BDCs. The commercial banks and the BDCs had been tried and tested at different times and different exchange rate regimes but have failed in their own domains. For instance, most commercial banks hoard, receive bribes, kick-backs, brokering or profit from the CBN official Dollar allocations, thereby further widening the gap between the official rate and the black-market rates.

For the BDCs, they are the agents, on many occasions, that served as the foot-soldiers in scouting and mopping-off all the available Dollars in the market with huge Naira for their clients and launder same in some instances.

Additionally, the Binance crypto market speculations of the rates appeared to be new in the perpetuation of Dollar atrocities in the country but still cannot be ignored.

On the answer to the question of spending the stored Dollar domestically, the answer is a resounding yes. Those with Dollar currencies in their possession should be allowed to transact at accredited points and this will ensure more liquidity of the Dollar domestically and reduce demand pressure to squash undue speculations and arbitraging. Allowing the Dollar to co-exist with the Naira in the domestic economy at reasonable scale is called ‘partial dollarization’. This is important because the Dollar in Nigeria based on the recent happenings and the CBN’s approaches is ‘strangled’, ‘suffocated’, ‘compressed’, and ‘thirsted’ for the Naira. So, what the Dollar now needs the most include but not limited to ‘some breath’, ‘exit-doors’, ‘chimneys’, ‘exhausts’ and ‘water’. So, Mr. Onanuga, the issue is not only about the ‘dumping’ but the provision of ‘sustainable dumping sites or exit-doors or chimneys for the strangulated Dollar’.

Moreover, I know some economists and others will question the very proposal of ‘partial dollarization’ of Nigeria, where Dollar will be used as a medium of exchange in addition to the Naira. Their major argument will be that the ‘partial dollarization’ will jeopardize Nigeria’s CBN monetary policy autonomy, because the CBN has no control over the Dollars that will be in circulation in the country. This is very true but with proper monitoring of the inflationary trends, this can be dealt with but it is good that I remind my colleagues in Economics of the concept of ‘unholy trinity’; where it is practically not possible to control the trinity at the same time. The unholy trinity is made up of the fixed exchange rate regime, independent monetary policy and free capital movement (see Figueredo et al., 2023).

Therefore, dollarization is necessary for Nigeria as it has already been practiced in many countries in the World and is one of the hidden secrets for their stable exchange rate systems or regimes. For those that visit countries such as the UK, US, Turkey, UAE, China, Germany, Saudi, Japan etc, they find at the airports currency exchange boots to convert currencies at ease and also realize at some hotels and malls or restaurants, price menus being quoted in 2 or more currencies for one to choose. Therefore, Nigeria should start its own journey.

On a final note, let me make little summary in bullet points to fine-tune the statement by Mr Onanuga that says ‘Dump Your Dollars’ but the ‘dump’ should be in this order:

• Dump your Dollars with the CBN at its various State offices and Headquarters;
• Dump with new aggregators to be approved by the CBN for onward submission to the CBN at a much regulated and controlled service charges;
• Dumpers or depositors of the Dollars must not have domiciliary accounts but for those that have one, part of the amounts could be lodged into the accounts;
• Domiciliary accounts in Nigeria need to be reviewed with a view to embracing the best global practice for the stability of the Naira;
• There should be authorized currency exchange boots at major International airports in the country for small exchanges, like buying and selling of not more than $1,000 or so for travelers in and out of the country.
  For the case of ‘partial dollarization’, the following are recommended:
• Real estate or physical assets and automobile dealings could be accredited to receive Dollars under stipulated guidelines and this will ease their trouble scouting for Dollars for their imports;
• Major shopping malls and stores, restaurants, hotels/suites, hospitals (private), pharmacies, schools (private and all categories) should be accredited to receive Dollars under the CBN stipulated guidelines;
• Entertainment industry and certain concerts in major cities of Nigeria such as Lagos, Kaduna, Abuja, Portharcourt, Benin, Kano, etc should be allowed to receive Dollars for their gate fee charges under the CBN stipulated guidelines.

Thank you and see you next time.

Dr. Gwadabe (Baffa) is an academic staff of Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, from the Department of Economics. He can be reached at: bkabirugwadabe@gmail.com

By Aisha Musa Auyo

I know this is coming in late, but better late than never, huh? Ramadan is a sacred month that is supposed to be dedicated to fasting, Quranic recitation, prayers, sadaqah, etc. But part of that ibadah comes with a lot of cooking and eating.

Ramadan is synonymous with a delicious variety of dishes—a paradox, right? That’s why many media stations and content creators dedicate time, energy, and resources to Ramadan dishes and treats.

Women are more often on the receiving end of this cooking duty during Ramadan. This has been the tradition since time immemorial, so we cannot change it, but we can create ways that will help us adapt, manage, and not be overwhelmed by it. We can make it beneficial and more rewarding.

First and foremost, cook with the intention of getting rewarded, not to impress your man, the family, or his friends. That gender may not even say thank you, sannu da aiki, abincin yayi dadi, or even Allah Ya miki albarka. But if your intention is to get rewarded by Allah, you are sure to have that reward. Innamal a’amaalu binniyati.

Know that whoever feeds a fasting person receives an immense reward. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “He who feeds a fasting person will have a reward like that of the fasting person, without any reduction in his reward.” (Tirmidhi) This applies to the one who buys the food as well as the one who cooks the food.

When it comes to tafsir, Ramadan lectures, and the like, technology has made things easier for us. You can listen to live or recorded programs on your phone, wherever you are in the world, while you’re cooking or cleaning. You can listen to Quranic recitation too; you can do lots of dhikr and istighfar while doing most chores. Try not to miss out on this.

If you have the means, give out sadaqah in cash and in kind, especially food and water. That will fetch you an immense reward. In the end, it’s the reward we are aiming for, so the end justifies the means.

If you are fortunate enough to have electricity, you can devote your weekends to making pepper soups, stews, and juices. Then, freeze them, which will make cooking easier for the rest of the week. Also, make use of food processors and other appliances that will simplify your work.

Make use of processed foods as much as you can afford. For example, if you want to make tiger nut drink, buy tiger nut powder from Auyo’s Cuisines. This will make your work faster and easier, and you will have the energy for Tarawih. Other processed foods that are much needed for Ramadan are ground peppers, ground kuli, masa premix, and garin kunu, all of which are available and affordable at Auyo’s Cuisines.

Making a weekly food timetable ahead of time helps a lot. Thinking about what to cook is very draining; knowing what to cook is like finishing half the work.

Seek help; don’t try to do everything yourself. Engage the kids and hire someone to help you, even if it’s just for the month. Going to the market will drain you and waste your time; find someone to help you with that from time to time.

You see that Zirkr our Prophet gave his daughter when she asked for servants, Subhanallah, walhamdulillah, and wallWallahar, don’t joke with it before you sleep, you need it now, more than ever.

Try to hydrate a lot during the non-fasting hours. Don’t be too exhausted to eat; you need health and energy more than anyone.

As much as you can, avoid social media, movies, useless chit-chats, and worldly distractions. You will have ample time for that after Ramadan. This month is sacred and only comes once a year. The Prophet said, “Verily, Gabriel came to me and he said: Whoever reaches the month of Ramadan and he is not forgiven, then he will enter Hellfire and Allah will cast him far away,”.

The Prophet peace be upon him also said, that a loser is the one who witnessed Ramadan and didn’t earn Allah’s pardon. A loser is one who’s despaired of Allah’s mercy. A loser lets time pass by procrastinating good deeds. A loser is the one who loses the reward of his fasting to mere hunger and thirst.

My fellow women, try to be on your best behavior this month. Try not to be a loser. As a woman, know that you will sleep less than anyone else in the house, but it’s okay; that’s your part of the sacrifice. Men go out to work too; some men work under the scorching sun. Some men’s work involves hard labor, harder than what you do at home. Some men, even though they work under AC, have pressures and issues they need to solve, which is also very difficult and draining.

Over to you, my brother. If you can afford it, please get some domestic help for your wife. She needs it, especially this month. If not someone who will help in the kitchen, find someone who will help with the shopping and outdoor activities.

If you want to bring people for iftar, do so in moderation. She is only human with two hands.

If you want to feed many people, employ ‘Mai kosai da kunu’ for that project. Many people need the job and the extra money that comes with it. Allow your wife to handle the family’s iftar. Allah Ya biya ka da aljanna.

Bro, I know you’re working hard to provide, but a kind word, a prayer, a gift (in cash or in kind) will make your woman feel appreciated and loved. It won’t kill you.

My fellow women, know that all this work you are doing might not be possible if your man were not providing the food and resources. Appreciate him, encourage him, and respect him. You are not the only one working hard.

But if you are the woman of the house and also the one providing for the household, know that only Allah SWT can help and reward you. I cannot explain or tell you how to manage your time, but I know you are incredible, and in sha Allah, you will enjoy the fruits of your labor, here and in the hereafter.

If you are a son or daughter still living with your parents, know that you also have roles to play. These roles can range from helping with meal preparation and cleaning to running errands and greeting your parents when they return home from work. Praying for your parents is also an important act of worship.

If you are earning money, buy fruits, vegetables, or gifts for your parents and siblings.

Guy, before you shamelessly take a Ramadan basket or kayan sallah to your girlfriend, who may not even marry you, do so for your parents first. It will be more rewarding for you.

Girl, before you shamelessly invite that stingy boyfriend of yours for iftar with your parents’ cefane, make sure you are always helping out with the cooking and cleaning; it will be more rewarding for you. Don’t be a lazy girl and then an active one when your guy is coming for iftar.

Dear couples, as much as I know you are tired, don’t ignore za oza room ibada during this month. It is very rewarding, it enhances mood and offers benefits for physical and psychological health including lowering stress, improving sleep, and boosting immune function.

Experts say the hour before suhoor is the best during Ramadan. By then, couples are well-rested, and they will be waking up for suhoor anyway.

Let me stop here. May Allah accept our ibadah. May He give us the health and wealth to perform this ibadah to the best of our abilities. May Allah make us among the servants who will be freed at the end of this month. May He forgive our shortcomings, and may all our prayers and wishes be granted. May we witness many more Ramadans in good health and wealth.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctoral researcher in Educational Psychology, a wife, and a mother of three. She is a homemaker, caterer, and parenting/relationship coach.

By Ismaila Academician

Have you ever noticed that some pillars don’t stand upright, some dresses don’t fit well, and some bathroom tiles slope in the wrong direction, requiring sweeping after use?

The underlying cause is often a lack of passion among the professionals who create them. While they may appear cheerful and enthusiastic on the front end, their motivation primarily stems from financial gains attached rather than genuine passion from the back end. Passion is the driving force to perfection. It is the pacesetter towards excellence and success.

In the Western world, passion is evident in how professionals, artisans, and experts discharge their duties. They work not just to earn a living but also for a sense of fulfilment. It motivates them to innovate and develop new ideas, leading to the creation of products and services that are nothing short of perfect. Overall, it makes their countries grow and stay afloat no matter the storm. 

Nigeria is blessed with a wealth of talents. We have the potential to innovate and develop new ideas—products and services that can compete favourably with those made abroad. But that talent remains unutilised.

A close look at the Facebook Reels section reveals that while Western and Eastern individuals are busy advertising their talents and sharing innovative ideas, Nigerians are often preoccupied with sharing content such as elegant weddings, club sessions, presidential convoys, and comedies. While these are not inherently bad, they do not reflect the depth of our creativity and innovation.

Social media is a powerful tool that can help us showcase our skills to a large and diverse audience. We can attract potential customers, business partners, investors, or employers. It also can help us build reputation, credibility, and influence. We need to craft a better narrative for Nigeria. We need to showcase our creativity and innovation. We need to display our knowledge and skills to inspire and motivate others.

In conclusion, the journey from passion to perfection is a transformative one. It requires passion. As Nigerians, we have what it takes to embark on this journey. We have what it takes to bridge the gap between local and foreign products. We have what it takes to craft a better narrative for Nigeria. All we need to do is to harness our potential and channel it towards the pursuit of perfection. But passion can’t do the work alone. We need to supplement our passion with action – creativity and innovation.

Remember, ideas develop the world, and people are willing to bring these ideas to life. Let’s be those people. Let’s make Nigeria a better place.

Ismaila Abdulmumini wrote from Kano, Nigeria, via ismailaacademician@gmail.com.