By Khalid Imam

Dr. Bukar Usman, the acclaimed President of the Nigerian Folklore Society, (NFS) and the President of the Dr. Bukar Usman Foundation who was a recipient of many illustrious awards including one of the highest national medals, Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), is to be deservedly inducted with the most distinguished Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (Hon. FNAL).

In a well-crafted letter sent to Dr. Usman, the National President of NAL, Professor Sola Akinrinade, FNAL aptly enumerated that the Honorary Fellowship is the most prestigious award that the Nigerian Academy of Letters bestows on well-qualified non-members who have significantly made astonishing contributions to the transformation of the Arts and Humanities in Nigeria. While felicitating with Dr. Usman, an esteemed honoree, Prof. Akinrinade rolled out the deserving names of some of the acclaimed past honorary awardees of Hon. FNAL which include among others; late Mr. Gamaliel Onosode; HRH Alhaji Umaru Sanda Ndayako late Etsu Nupe, Emir of Bida; HRM Omo n’Oba n’Edo Erediauwa, late Oba of Benin Kingdom; a seasoned administrator and politician, late Mallam Adamu Ciroma and an astute diplomat, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, and Most Rev. Bishop Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah.

These past Honorary Fellows were all distinguished giants in their different professional callings whose fascinating contributions to Arts and Humanities as well as other fields were well noted and appreciated.

Considering the high esteem and recognition Dr. Usman is enjoying due to his oeuvre cutting across the fields of literature, language, history and security, NAL President stated in his letter to Dr. Usman that, the illustrious and apex body of scholars considered it as an honor that Dr. Usman, a son of Biu from Borno State of northeastern Nigeria will be one of those called to join the hall of honour of Hon. FNAL.

Dr. Usman, a renowned author of over thirty well-received publications, famed for being very meticulous in research and dissimulation of profound history facts is a silent achiever and disciplined organizer who, before his retirement from the presidency in 1999 as a Permanent Secretary was adjudged to be among some of the finest public administrators. Through his Dr. Bukar Usman Foundation, Dr. Usman has been publishing and distributing free books to educational institutions, individuals and organizations across Nigeria and beyond. A philanthropist par excellence, Dr. Usman has been supporting vulnerable individuals with education support funds, health support bills, and he has been distributing free fertilizers and quality seeds to poor farmers in his Biu community. A detribalized Nigerian, he is with loyal friends and colleagues across the Niger. A man with heart of gold he is always willing to be a part of worthy endeavors that would move Nigeria forward. A tower of strength to the youths he is a reliable bridge-builder.
To those familiar with Dr. Usman’s outstanding public service achievements, literary contributions and philanthropy, many recognized him as one of the most generous patrons of books, arts and literature, therefore his investiture for the conferment of the Hon. FNAL held on Thursday, 8th August, 2024, at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, has been long awaited. Hence, the good news of this Hon. FNAL award has been receiving wide applause and salutes among the academics, writers and readers across the country.

Among his many awards are: LAN award by Linguistic Association of Nigeria in 2013; Honorary Doctorate degree, Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) in 2014 by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; the Golden Ingots honour for excellence by his alma mater, the King’s College, Lagos in 2015; Award for Value-Oriented Leadership by the University of Nigeria Nsukka in 2016; among many others too numerous to roll out here.

Dr. Usman who became active in writing after his retirement from public service, born on 10th December, 1942, is without doubt a prolific writer without border, especially when the array of areas he delved into are anything to consider. Some of his publications are: A History of Biu; Language Disappearance and Cultural Diversity in Biu Emirate; Girl- Child Education in Biu Emirate: the Early Years; My Literary Journey; My Public Service Journey: Issues in Public Policy Administration in Nigeria; Hatching Hopes; Folklore and History: the Twin Rivers of World Heritage; Leadership, Security and National Development; Issues and Challenges of National Security; Language, Technology and Democratic Culture; Restructuring Nigeria: An Overview; Public Policy Formulation in Nigeria; Taskar Tatsuniyoyi; A Selection of Nigerian Folktales: Themes and Settings; People, Animals,. Spirits and Objects: 1000 Folk Stories of Nigeria; Gods and Ancestors: Mythic Tales of Nigeria; My Literary Works: Reviews and Reports; A Foundation of Hope and many others.

As Dr. Bukar Usman receives the prestigious Hon. FNAL award, one can’t fail to hail NAL for bestowing honour to whom it is duly due. Congratulations.

Khalid Imam is a Kano-based bilingual poet, writer and education administrator who is the Curator of All Poets Network International and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Poetry Renaissance Trust. He can be reached via email: khalidimam2002@gmail.com

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has implored African leaders to make more strategic and deliberate efforts in addressing the exodus of skills and talent from Africa.

Speaking at a dinner held in his honour at the People’s Palace in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, on Wednesday night, President Tinubu said research and development must be encouraged with the provision of appropriate rewards.

The President said: “Why are we complaining about healthcare problems if our doctors cannot have a home in our continent? If our nurses are faced with destitution, and if our judicial system is archaic?”

President Tinubu, who is on a three-day official visit, said development in Africa will begin when the continent starts to look inwards for solutions.

“Tribalism has no place in our nation or region. We have to strengthen the continent. Cultivate and maintain peace together and help one another.

“We have to develop our resources for our progress. Find solutions among ourselves and focus incisively on research and development, and reward those research and development programmes. We must bring out the results ourselves. We must not outsource them or sell them out.

“To the international organizations, we are partners. We will continue to be partners, but we must implement more than half of the results of the research established here. We have many youths to take care of. Millions yearning for progress,’’ the President said.

He thanked President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo for the invitation to visit Malabo.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

President Bola Tinubu and Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on Wednesday evening in Malabo signed an agreement on Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project, further affirming partnership for mutual development.  

The agreement covered legislative and regulatory measures for the gas pipeline, establishment and operation, transit of natural gas, ownership of the gas pipeline, and general principles.  

In his remarks at the event, President Tinubu, who is on a three-day official visit to Equatorial Guinea, said the signing of the agreement will open up new opportunities for gas exploration and employment. 

The President stated that the two leaders had discussed issues related to the creation of employment, food security, multilateral relations, and conflict resolution mechanisms on the continent during a private meeting that preceded the signing of the agreement. 

“Concerning Africa, conflicts and conflict resolution were discussed. We discussed various areas of conflicts and what we can do to promote peace. 

“We talked about promotion of peace and stability in our countries, and growth and prosperity on our continent.  

“In the same way that Europe and America have kept themselves and found a solution for their conflicts, we have to look at both inadequate capital, industrialization efforts, research and development programmes, and enlighten our people, navigate our way through problems. 

“Instead of the crisis and conflicts that we see in the Republic of Congo, and others, we have to look inwards to solve problems ourselves,’’ the President said.  

President Tinubu said the discussion with the President of Equatorial Guinea also covered challenges of security, African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), and food security.  

“We are all going for it. Within Africa and the African Union, we have resolved that we will work together to make sure that the solution to many of our problems in Africa comes from within,’’ the President concluded. 

In his remarks, the President of Equatorial Guinea said bilateral relations with Nigeria over many years have been rewarding and stated the need to deepen cooperation across salient areas.  

President Mbasogo said Africa’s vision of having a permanent seat in the Security Council of the United Nations is vital for the development of the continent, affirming that Equatorial Guinea will work with Nigeria to realize the objective.  

The President of Equatorial Guinea said the signing of the agreement was strategic for Africa’s development. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar of Nigeria, and Mr. Simeon Oyono Esono, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Equatorial Guinea, also signed the agreement. 

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of State, Petroleum, Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, and Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim- Biu were present at the signing of the agreement.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

In a ceremony held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi handed over the Vice-Chair of the World Customs Organization (WCO) West and Central African Region to Mali’s Inspector-General of Customs, Amadou Konate. 

CGC Adeniyi stated the significance of the sub-region, saying, “The sub-region serves as a platform for Customs Administrations to share experiences and develop lasting solutions to their common problems.” 

He also pledged mutual mentorship and support, identifying areas where the Nigeria Customs Service could assist the Malian Customs Administration.

Adeniyi explained the WCO framework, stating, “The WCO is an umbrella body uniting over 184 Customs Administrations worldwide. Each of the six global regions has an elected Vice-Chair who assists the Secretary-General in the administrative structure.” 

Inspector-General Konate expressed gratitude for the hospitality and expressed interest in building strong collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service.

He noted the differences in administrative structures but welcomed the opportunity to learn from Nigeria’s experience. 

The handover marks a significant milestone in regional cooperation and knowledge sharing among customs administrations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Gombe State has made a significant stride in its investment drive by becoming the first state in Northern Nigeria to benefit from the Nigeria Investment Promotion Certification programme, which is being implemented by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC). The programme is funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). 

This was disclosed by the UNDP representative, Adejumobi Fashola, at the opening session of a three-day workshop for officials of the various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Gombe state on building the state’s competence to provide information capable of attracting investment for sustained economic growth and development.

According to Fashola, the selection of Gombe as the first beneficiary in Northern Nigeria underscored the state’s strategic importance and the potential it holds for attracting both local and foreign investments, emphasising sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, and renewable energy, which have been identified as key drivers of the state’s economic growth.

“The goal of this programme is to build the capacity of state MDAs to effectively engage with investors and create a conducive environment that will encourage sustainable investment. 

“Gombe State has demonstrated a strong commitment to this process, and we believe the outcomes of this workshop will significantly enhance the state’s investment profile,” the UNDP representative said.

“The Nigeria Investment Promotion Certification Process (NIPC) aims to standardise and enhance the capabilities of MDAs at state levels in promoting and facilitating investments by equipping them with the necessary skills, tools, and knowledge to create a more conducive and attractive environment for both local and foreign investors. 

It focuses on improving the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of investment promotion activities, ensuring that states become competitive and preferred destinations for investment in Nigeria”, he added. 

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary/Sole Administrator of the Gombe State Investment and Property Development Company Limited, Mohammed Abubakar Bello Kumo, expressed Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to transforming Gombe into an investment hub, noting that the state government has been working tirelessly to improve the business climate by implementing reforms and infrastructure projects that will attract investors.

“We are honoured to be the first state in Northern Nigeria to benefit from this programme. This is proof of the ongoing efforts of Governor Inuwa Yahaya to make Gombe State a business-friendly environment. This workshop will equip our MDAs with the necessary skills to attract and retain investment, which is crucial for the economic development of our state”, Kumo stated.

He also acknowledged the role of UNDP and NIPC in supporting Gombe State’s development agenda, particularly in fostering partnerships that will lead to job creation, poverty reduction, and improved living standards for the people of Gombe.

Some of the participants who spoke at the event expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn from industry experts and engage in practical sessions that will help them apply the knowledge gained in their respective MDAs. 

They noted that the training provided them with valuable insights into how the state can leverage its unique resources to attract investment.

By Hamza Muhammad Tasiu

I want to start with a powerful word: Kafkaesque! The meaning? It is when you enter a surreal world in which all your control patterns, plans, and how you have configured your own behaviour begin to fall to pieces. You find yourself against a force that does not lend itself to how you perceive the world. You don’t give up; you don’t lie down and die. You struggle against this with your equipment and whatever you have. But of course, you don’t stand a chance. That’s Kafkaesque as defined by Frederick R. Karl.

Kafkaesque comes from the name of the German author Franz Kafka. The word perfectly describes the cases of most kidney failure patients. The disease starts with back pain, then people go for diagnosis, and dialysis follows (Thank God it is free for Yobe indigenes). Swelling in arms and legs, shortness of breath, and hiccups follow and then comes the expected: slow and painful death. These are some of the things patients go through. 

But what is kidney failure? Kidney failure is a condition in which the kidneys lose the ability to remove waste and balance fluids. In other words, the kidneys have failed. 

Ordinarily, kidney failure should not be a death sentence. Dr. Ibrahim Sulaiman told us that a person can survive on 25% of his total nephrons, the kidney cells. That is, you only need half of one kidney to survive. But for most people, being diagnosed with one kidney failure is like being issued an indirect death certificate.

Most patients diagnosed with kidney disease put everything they can into the fight against the disease, but they stand no chance in most cases. And as the word says, ‘You don’t give up, you don’t lie down and die. You struggle against this with your equipment and whatever you have. But of course, you don’t stand a chance.’ 

Gashua has the highest number of cases of kidney failure in the whole of Yobe State. You could go to the dialysis unit in Yobe State Teaching Hospital and look at a kidney failure patient and ask him, ‘Are you from Gashua?’ The most probable answer? ‘Yes!’ 

As we speak today, hundreds of families are at the mercy of this disease. May we, the healthy ones, be protected from it. We also pray that this crisis comes to an end soon. 

My attempts for writing this short piece are that we may get someone (individuals, NGOs, governments, etc.) who will come to our aid and relieve the pain in my heart. As Neil Gaiman said, ‘Pain shared, my brother, is pain not doubled but halved.’

Hamza Muhammad Tasiu wrote via hamzamtasiu@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu 

The role of public relations (PR) has become increasingly crucial in the digital age. Beyond just administrative tasks, PR now serves as a vital managerial function within organizations. 

It is widely acknowledged that an effective PR function shapes an organization’s image, fosters relationships with the media, manages crises even before they erupt, and ensures continuous engagement with key stakeholders and the public. As outlined by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and further expanded to meet modern demands, the core PR functions form the backbone of any successful communication campaign.

While traditional offline PR remains relevant, the reality is that in the digital age, the deployment of technological tools has transformed the way PR is practiced. The essential PR functions, however, still remain valid in this contemporary period.

Media Relations: Media relations is the gateway to public perception. With the rise of social media, video conferencing, and other digital tools, building and maintaining relationships with the press are now more accessible than ever. Effective media relations ensure that an organization secures favorable coverage and manages its image in the press. This involves regular engagement with journalists, responding promptly to media inquiries, and providing accurate and compelling information that aligns with the organization’s objectives.

Community Engagement: Engaging with the community is key to building a positive reputation and fostering goodwill. This can be achieved through digital platforms, such as online event invitations, participation in virtual events, supporting local initiatives, and maintaining open lines of communication with critical stakeholders. An organization must be seen as a valuable and responsible member of the community.

Crisis Management: Navigating stormy waters through crisis management is also essential. Most crises are now triggered and spread through social media. Every organization should anticipate crises and put in place robust crisis management strategies to mitigate the impact on its reputation. Developing response plans, training spokespersons, and swiftly addressing issues as they arise are attributes of a consummate communicator. Effective crisis management protects the organization’s image and ensures continued trust from stakeholders.

Employee Relations: Employee relations are the heartbeat of an organization. Technological advancements have facilitated frequent communication between employers and employees. Regular interactions are crucial for building trust, motivation, and alignment with organizational goals. Employee relations involve regular updates, recognition programs, and fostering a positive workplace culture. When employees are engaged and informed, they become advocates for the organization, enhancing its overall image.

Public Affairs: Influencing policy and legislation through public affairs builds relationships with government and regulatory bodies. Public affairs professionals work to ensure that the organization’s interests are represented in policy discussions and that regulatory changes are communicated effectively within the organization.

Reputation Management: Protecting the brand with reputation management involves monitoring and enhancing an organization’s overall image. This includes proactive strategies to build a positive reputation and reactive measures to address any negative perceptions. Consistent and strategic communication is key to maintaining public trust and confidence.

Social Media Management: Social media management is vital for engaging with audiences, promoting the organization, and managing its online presence. This involves creating and sharing content, responding to comments and messages, and monitoring social media trends. Effective social media management helps to build a strong online community and amplify the organization’s message.

Content Creation and Distribution: Producing and distributing content that aligns with the organization’s objectives is essential for engaging target audiences. This includes press releases, blog posts, videos, and infographics. High-quality content not only informs but also inspires and engages, helping to build a loyal audience.

Event Management: Organizing and managing events is a powerful way to promote the organization, its products, or its services. Whether it’s a product launch, a community event, or a corporate meeting, well-executed events enhance visibility and create positive experiences for attendees.

Research and Evaluation: Conducting research to understand public perceptions and evaluating the effectiveness of any campaign for continuous improvement is crucial. This involves gathering data, analyzing feedback, and making informed decisions to refine strategies and achieve better outcomes.

In the ever-evolving landscape of public relations, practitioners must adapt to the changing demands of the digital age while upholding the core principles of the profession. By mastering these essential functions, organizations can effectively communicate their message, build strong relationships with their stakeholders, and navigate the complexities of the modern PR landscape.

Haroon Aremu is a Mass Communication graduate and a youth corps member at the PRNigeria Centre in Abuja.

By Uzair Adam 

Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South in the National Assembly, disclosed that his monthly take-home package amounts to over ₦21 million. 

This revelation came just 24 hours after the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) stated that each of the 109 senators in the Nigerian Senate receives a monthly salary and allowances totalling ₦1.06 million.

The RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, had clarified that senators’ official earnings include a basic salary of ₦168,866.70, along with various allowances such as ₦126,650.00 for motor vehicle fueling and maintenance, ₦42,216.66 for personal assistant, and other minor allowances, bringing the total to ₦1,063,860.00 per month.

However, in an interview with BBC Hausa, Senator Kawu revealed a stark difference in the figures, explaining that while his monthly salary is indeed around ₦1 million, additional administrative fees and allowances he receives as a senator bring his total monthly earnings to ₦21 million. 

According to Kawu, this amount covers various office running costs, including domestic travel and newspaper purchases.

The controversy surrounding the earnings of Nigerian federal lawmakers has been reignited, especially after former President Olusegun Obasanjo criticized the practice of lawmakers setting their salaries and allowances, labelling it as immoral. 

Similarly, a former senator from Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, had previously disclosed that senators receive a monthly running cost of ₦13.5 million in addition to their salaries. 

The debate continues as Nigerians scrutinize the actual earnings of their representatives in the National Assembly.

By Uzair Adam 

Bello Galadanchi, widely known as Dan Bello, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, claiming they are causing widespread hunger and suffering among Nigerians. 

In a recent interview on Trust TV’s Daily Politics, the famous skit maker voiced his concerns about the government’s approach, stating that people are enduring severe hardship, including consuming grass and contaminated water, due to avoidable policy decisions.

Dan Bello, who claimed to have no political affiliations, challenged the government to take legal action if it disagreed with his statements. 

He emphasized the plight of Nigerians who, in desperation, are seeking food door-to-door and argued that this crisis is not due to natural disasters but deliberate political choices.

He questioned the priorities of the ruling party, suggesting that their policies favour massive personal gains over addressing the basic needs of the population. 

“If their policies are genuinely beneficial, the criticism from content creators like myself won’t resonate with the people,” he argued. 

Dan Bello expressed his willingness to face legal consequences if it means drawing attention to the dire situation, urging the government to consider the human cost of its actions.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy have joined forces to suppress waterway smuggling in Lagos.

Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye of the NCS Western Marine Command visited the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Real Admiral Mustapha Hassan, on Tuesday, seeking support in tackling smuggling within the waterways. 

“We are here for consolidation. The FOC has promised us so many things, and they are even ready to release their boats,” Bamisaiye said, adding to the existing synergy between the two agencies. 

On tackling smuggling, Bamisaiye stated, “We are unrelenting in suppressing smuggling… We will match force with them. We are ready, and even with the promise from the FOC, we know that we are good to go.” 

Real Admiral Mustapha Hassan acknowledged the role of Customs in Nigeria’s blue economy, saying, “When the Western Marine Command tops its job, the sky is the limit.”

He proposed a joint patrol to combat smuggling, saying, “We will collaborate and make sure we bring smuggling to an end in Lagos.”