Nigeria

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

An Islamic human rights organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has advised Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to open a dance school. The group said such an institution would be the governor’s legacy in the state.

The advice was given in a statement issued on Monday, 15th January 2024, by the group’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola.

He said:

“The governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has become popular with his dancing skills. He shows off his skill at every given opportunity, at public functions and official sittings. It is one thing that he takes great joy in doing.

“We admit that even his opponents admire his skill while his supporters are thrilled by his dancing. One can never have a dull moment with Governor Adeleke around. He does it with passion and takes great pride in it. Such skill should not be allowed to waste away.

“It is for this reason we would like to suggest to the governor to bequeath his skill to the youth of Osun State by opening a dance school. In the alternative, the governor can inject powerful doses of government investment into the arts department of the Osun State University with a special bias for dancing.

“Such investment may catapult the state’s tourism and entertainment to the highest pedestal among other states of the federation. It will also increase its internally generated revenue (IGR). This is one way Osun can make the best of the present situation. Adeleke has a potential legacy already.”

By Tanimu Ibrahim Gambo

In the dynamic realm of public relations, leadership acumen plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of professional institutions. Dr. Ike Neliaku, FNIPR, assumed the presidency of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) on 24th August 2023 with his “New Dawn” vision that has materialised into transformative accomplishments within the first 120 days of his tenure.

In the space of 120 days, Dr Neliaku has hit the ground running by spearheading the seamless automation and integration of payment systems between state chapters and the national Secretariat. This not only streamlines financial transactions but also fosters greater efficiency in the Institute’s operations.

A significant milestone being pursued and which is on the verge of realisation under his leadership is the successful inclusion of the public relations cadre in both federal and state civil services. The process is at an advanced stage following the nod it received at the National Council on Establishment’s meeting, which was held in Bauchi, Bauchi State, between 11th and 13th December 2023. This achievement underscores the Institute’s commitment to elevating the standing of public relations professionals within the broader public sector.

Embracing the digital age, NIPR, under the guidance of Dr. Neliaku, is actively engaged in a comprehensive Digital Transformation Project. This initiative encompasses the digitisation of general information, the creation of a membership portal, an education portal, a dedicated NIPR app, and the provision of electronic training certificates and badges.

In a bid to amplify its reach, NIPR is set to unveil new online handles, ensuring a robust and real-time presence across digital platforms. This strategic move aligns with contemporary communication trends, enhancing the Institute’s visibility and engagement.

The Institute’s Governing Council, which Dr. Neliaku chairs, is driving the development of the NIPR Finishing School Project. This initiative aims to establish a dynamic, accessible, and smart training facility, providing members with creative opportunities to enhance their professional capacities.

Looking ahead, NIPR is poised to hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting and Conference in April at Abeokuta, Ogun State. This event promises to be a convergence of practitioners across the Nigerian states, ministries and industry leaders, fostering networking and knowledge exchange.

The Institute, under Dr. Neliaku’s leadership, is gearing up for the grand celebration of its Golden Jubilee between March and May 2024. This milestone not only commemorates the Institute’s rich history but also signifies its enduring commitment to advancing public relations scholarship and practice in Nigeria.

In just 120 days, Dr. Ike Neliaku has laid a robust foundation for the NIPR’s continued growth and relevance. His strategic initiatives are not only shaping the present landscape but also positioning the Institute as a trailblazer in the evolving field of public relations in Nigeria. As NIPR marches confidently towards its Golden Jubilee, the achievements under Dr. Neliaku’s presidency exemplify a commitment to excellence and innovation in the realm of public relations in Nigeria.

Tanimu Ibrahim Gambo is the Secretary of the NIPR Bauchi State Chapter.

By Habibu Ma’aruf Abdu

An interesting incident at the Awgu NYSC orientation camp, Enugu State, revealed to me the far-reaching popularity of Ali Nuhu in 2018. 

It was the early evening glow at the camp. As we strolled back from the training ground, a young Ijaw lady approached me with a cool smile on her face;

“Brother, may I ask you a few questions, please?” she inquired. 

“Why not?” I responded politely.

“Your platoon member, Oluwaseun, told me you are a Hausa from the North…”

I nodded my head in agreement: “Yes.”

“So, do you know Ali Nuhu?” she asked, her curiosity evident.

“Yes, I know him very well,” I affirmed.

Her face lit up with joy upon hearing my answer, and she muttered to herself: “No wonder!”

Curious, she continued, “Is he a brother to you…?”

Surprised, I responded, “Why this question? I know him as a famous actor. Nothing more. After all, who doesn’t know Ali Nuhu in the North? “

“Please don’t take offence; it’s just that I noticed a resemblance in your looks and actions…

“He is my favourite star. I love watching his films,” she added with enthusiasm.

From there, our conversation delved into a discussion about Nigerian cinema. I then discovered that the young lady knew no actor from Northern Nigeria besides him!

Ali Nuhu is probably the only Nigerian actor whose popularity transcends regional boundaries. His exceptional achievements in both Northern Nigeria’s Kannywood and mainstream Nollywood firmly established him as a pan-Nigerian superstar. 

I once encountered a young man in a faraway village in Igbo land wearing a T-shirt adorned with Ali Nuhu’s image. Again, when I visited Kebbi state in 2013, their most frequent question was, “Have you ever met Ali Nuhu?”

I, therefore, deemed his recent appointment as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation by President Bola Ahmad Tinubu to be well-deserved. It is a testament to his dedication and significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry. Wishing the King of Kannywood continued success in this new position!

Habibu Maaruf Abdu wrote from Kano via habibumaaruf11@gmail.com. 

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The excellent investigative report by the Daily Nigerian and the subsequent suspension of accreditation of degree certificates from Beninese and Togolese universities by the federal government of Nigeria has put a dent in every certificate genuinely or ill-obtained from institutions in these West African countries and some other African countries. This includes certificates from Eastern Africa as well.

The urge for these certificates, particularly among young Nigerians, is simply the price we pay for our inclination toward seeking easy solutions and allowing personal interests to override the national image.

One interesting aspect of the Cotonou ‘easy’ certificates is that they predominantly attract young people from Nigeria’s ‘semi-middle’ class and lazy individuals from wealthy families. For them, obtaining a bachelor’s degree often involves pursuing studies at Benin or Togo universities, which admit anyone can pay for the desired degree.

Another unfortunate aspect is that someone who obtains a bachelor’s degree in less than two months can easily secure a job in a sector involving life and death, make critical decisions in vital areas of Nigerian public life, or lead a group of competent individuals who have diligently earned their certificates. We hope there are no doctors, pharmacists, engineers, etc., practising in Nigeria who obtained their certificates through ‘crooked ways’ from Benin, Togo, etc. However, Nigeria’s professional and regulatory bodies should have prevented them from gaining entry.

Fake certificates pose a serious threat to the nation. This issue would be treated as a ‘war’ against the country in more developed countries. The Nigerian government should suspend accreditation from these countries and take decisive action to shut down these irresponsible institutions targeting Nigeria and punish the perpetrators.

However, Nigeria shouldn’t throw away the baby with the bathwater; some individuals have obtained certificates from reputable institutions in these African countries. Nigeria should address the issue from both ends—domestically and with these countries. Domestically, authorities must address why our young people opting for universities abroad. The answer lies in our universities being plagued with incessant strikes, some lecturers being unnecessarily sadistic, and sometimes foreign certificates being undeservedly celebrated.

Secondly, serene learning environments are attractive; some of Nigeria’s university lecture classrooms and theatres are overcrowded and in poor condition. In contrast, foreign universities provide beautiful and appealing learning spaces. Additionally, it raises questions about why graduating from a private university in Nigeria is often easier than a public university, especially when many lecturers at private universities are the same individuals teaching at public universities.

To address the issue at its source in these African countries, Nigeria should leverage its diplomatic influence in West Africa, compelling these nations to mandate that private universities adhere to established standards and penalise offenders. Those implicated should face legal consequences, as certifying unqualified individuals is akin to warring Nigeria’s human resources development and socio-economic sectors.

Fake degree certificates from Benin and Togo involve two actors: the institutions in those countries and their collaborators in Nigeria. Moreover, fake degrees are not confined to Benin and Togo; they are a global issue. According to a report by the Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, Inc. (ACEI Global), based in Los Angeles, CA, USA, on December 2, 2023, Israeli police arrested 40 Israeli doctors, medical interns, and pharmacists who had presented false credentials to Israel’s Health Ministry. These individuals are suspected of purchasing medical and pharmacy degrees from three universities in Armenia despite never completing studies at those institutions—St. Tereza Medical University, Haybusak University, and Mkhtiar Gosh Armenian-Russian International University. The report also highlights controversies surrounding Punjab Technical University (PTU), India, including the issuance of fake degrees, leading to the arrest of four administrators for aiding failed students in passing.

If someone has genuinely obtained their degree from Benin or Togo, the current controversy has cast a shadow over it, and it may take some time to restore its credibility.

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

By Umar Sani Adamu

Poverty has far-reaching consequences on various aspects of society, including health, education, and social structure. Understanding these repercussions is crucial for addressing the root causes and developing effective strategies to alleviate poverty and its associated issues.

1. Health

Poverty significantly impacts health outcomes. Limited access to nutritious food, clean water, and adequate healthcare services contributes to a higher prevalence of malnutrition, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions among the impoverished. Lack of resources often results in substandard living conditions, exposing individuals to environmental hazards. Additionally, stressors associated with financial insecurity can lead to mental health issues, further exacerbating the overall health burden.

2. Education

Poverty creates barriers to educational attainment. Families struggling with economic hardships may prioritise immediate needs over investing in education. Children from impoverished backgrounds often face challenges such as inadequate access to quality schools, resources, and educational support. Limited access to books, technology, and extracurricular activities hinders their development. As a result, the cycle of poverty continues, as these individuals may find it challenging to break free from their circumstances through education.

3. Social Structure

The social fabric of a community is intricately linked to economic well-being. Poverty can contribute to the fragmentation of social ties as individuals grapple with the stress and uncertainty of their circumstances. Communities with high poverty rates may experience increased social inequality and a lack of social cohesion. This can manifest as reduced community engagement, weakened support networks, and a diminished sense of belonging.

4. Crime

Poverty is often identified as a significant factor contributing to crime. Several mechanisms explain this relationship. Firstly, individuals in poverty may resort to criminal activities as a means of economic survival. Limited opportunities for legitimate employment can lead some to engage in illegal activities to meet basic needs. Additionally, impoverished communities may experience higher rates of substance abuse, which can further contribute to criminal behaviour.

Furthermore, the lack of access to quality education and limited social support in impoverished areas can result in a higher prevalence of delinquency. The frustration and hopelessness stemming from persistent poverty may lead individuals, particularly young people, towards criminal behaviour as an alternative to breaking free from their challenging circumstances.

Addressing the Link Between Poverty and Crime

A multi-faceted approach is necessary to mitigate poverty’s impact on crime. Policies to reduce poverty through economic empowerment, education, and healthcare access are crucial. Investments in education, vocational training, and job creation can provide individuals with opportunities to escape the cycle of poverty and reduce the likelihood of resorting to criminal activities.

Social support programs that strengthen community bonds, mental health services, and addiction rehabilitation can address some of the root causes of criminal behaviour associated with poverty. Additionally, targeted efforts to improve law enforcement-community relations and reduce systemic inequalities can contribute to crime prevention.

In conclusion, poverty has profound consequences on health, education, and social structure, with a direct link to increased crime rates. Breaking this cycle requires comprehensive strategies that address the systemic issues contributing to poverty and simultaneously provide individuals and communities with the tools and resources needed for positive transformation.

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

Usman Muhammad Salihu

In the hustle of everyday life, many people find themselves navigating through challenges, and for some, the journey includes the demanding world of academia. A recent encounter with a university student sheds light on the harsh reality students face on the path to education, especially in Nigeria today.

As a graduate waiting for our results to be released, I engaged in a rickshaw business. As I was moving through the city of Jos, Plateau State, I picked up a young woman who, by all appearances, seemed to be a dedicated university student. Little did I know that the shadows of academic hardships marred her journey.

Her phone conversation with a fellow coursemate delved into the frustrating realm of carryovers and spillovers. According to her, some lecturers seemed to wield their power recklessly, subjecting students to the ordeal of repeating courses, even after graduation. What struck me was the claim that these burdens were inflicted upon students who resisted inappropriate advances.

With a frustrated tone, the young lady spoke of the financial strain that accompanies repeating courses. Despite the current economic challenges faced by many Nigerians, students find themselves compelled to pay registration fees to rectify the consequences of what appears to be an unjust system.

If the allegations are indeed true, and this is a manifestation of the notorious “sex for grades” issue, it raises serious concerns about the ethical conduct within our educational institutions. It is a cry for justice that cannot be ignored.

In response to these distressing revelations, a collective responsibility falls upon the government, the Students Union, and the wider public. The government must ensure a thorough investigation into these claims, holding accountable any lecturer found guilty of such misconduct. The Students Union has a vital role in advocating for the rights of its members, providing support, and pushing for systemic changes that protect students from exploitation.

Moreover, the public must not disregard the struggles faced by these students. Awareness is the first step towards change. By shedding light on these issues, we collectively contribute to fostering an environment where students can pursue education without fear of victimisation. Only through collective action and a commitment to transparency can we hope to eradicate these hardships and create a safe space for education to flourish.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes from Jos, Nigeria, via muhammadu5363@gmail.com

By Ibrahim Tukur

Teaching, a practice dating back to the inception of human civilisation, remains the cornerstone of knowledge dissemination and societal development. Across diverse forms, teaching has profoundly influenced our lives and the world at large. It’s the vessel through which knowledge, information, and invaluable experiences are preserved and transmitted across generations. In the structured confines of schools, students engage with various disciplines, not solely to absorb knowledge but also to challenge, reframe, and contribute to a brighter future.

Yet, despite being the progenitor of all professions, Nigeria seems to overlook the significance of the teaching profession, unlike professions like law or medicine, where extensive training and years of study are prerequisites, teaching frequently appears as an accessible career path, sometimes attracting individuals without the essential pedagogical skills or comprehensive subject mastery.

This oversight manifests glaringly in the underappreciation of teachers by the Nigerian government, notably in the form of insufficient compensation. The meagre salaries offered to educators fail to recognise the intricacies and demands inherent in their roles, severely limiting their ability to perform optimally and affecting their morale.

Additionally, the teaching landscape in Nigeria grapples with a multitude of challenges that impede effective education delivery. Inadequate infrastructure, including a scarcity of classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and teaching materials, is a significant barrier to teaching and learning. This scarcity, coupled with a shortage of qualified educators and deficiencies in teaching methodologies, hampers students’ ability to reach their academic potential.

The lack of comprehensive and quality teacher training programs is a significant challenge educators face in Nigeria. Many teachers enter the profession without adequate preparation, lacking essential pedagogical skills and updated teaching methodologies. This deficiency in training directly impacts their ability to engage students effectively, cater to diverse learning needs, and employ innovative teaching techniques. Insufficient training also hampers educators in adapting to evolving educational trends, impacting the quality of education imparted to students across various levels of schooling.

Consequently, Nigeria’s education system suffers, and the ramifications are dire. If not rectified, this neglect of teaching—the bedrock of all professions—will perpetuate the birth of underqualified professionals. It’s a situation that could escalate brain drain, where competent educators seek opportunities abroad where their expertise is appreciated and duly rewarded.

Recognising the pivotal role teachers play in shaping society, there’s an urgent need for substantial reforms. It starts with acknowledging and properly compensating teachers for their arduous task of moulding minds and futures. Additionally, investing in comprehensive teacher training programs, extending the duration of educational courses to allow for a more thorough mastery of teaching methodologies, and implementing stringent selection processes for educators are imperative steps.

The government’s commitment to furnishing all schools with adequate resources and facilities is equally crucial. This holistic approach ensures seamless teaching and learning experiences, vital for the nation’s educational advancement.

In conclusion, it’s paramount to accord teachers the reverence and support they deserve. Their pivotal role in shaping both individuals and the world demands acknowledgement and concrete actions aimed at rectifying the systemic deficiencies currently hampering the teaching profession in Nigeria.

Ibrahim Tukur is a hearing–impaired individual from Ingawa, a town in Katsina. He earned his first degree in Special Education/Sociology. He is a Disability Rights Advocate and can be reached via inventorngw@gmail.com.

By Sirajaddeen Mohammed Bello

In Nigeria’s many socioeconomic challenges, one issue stands out as the biggest threat, casting a gloomy shadow over the present and the nation’s future. Youth unemployment is a subject that elicits head shakes, furrowed brows, and a sense of impending doom. But beyond the sombre tone, let me unravel the implications of this predicament and infuse a touch of hope— and a pinch of ‘humour’ into this all-too-serious subject.

Youth unemployment in Nigeria isn’t just a problem; it’s an iceberg of colossal proportions. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) stated that Nigeria’s unemployment rate rose to 33.3% as it stood at the rate of 4.1% in the first quarter of2023, which translates to about 23.2 million people— youths, in particular. Let’s face it: numbers don’t always tell the whole story. Picture this: some hundreds of thousands, nay, millions of mostly educated, bright young minds stuck in a seemingly endless and almost fruitless game of job hunting— a game with fewer opportunities and a mammoth crowd of players. 

It’s a perplexing paradox, navigating through such a complicated realm that occasionally resembles a labyrinth of bureaucracy and nepotism. These players could either be overqualified or, in many cases, underqualified, creating a complex, ‘funny’ puzzle that baffles many— in a head-scratching manner.

Now, one might wonder why we care about this particular problem: youth unemployment. And even go on to declare it a “time bomb”? Too strict a term? Well, let me draw you a vivid picture. A sizeable chunk of our youths are left idle, grappling with feelings of inadequacy, financial crisis and frustration. Do you think all will end well? No! If not given the needed attention and channelled constructively, this sluggish energy can surely fester and lead to various social ills in unimaginably ugly ways. So, you see? It’s not just a ticking time Bomb: it’s an evil fuse that could ignite a powder keg of problems for this country.

It’s still not too late for the authorities to right this wrong. We’ve analysed the problem to an extent. Let’s talk solutions because dwelling on problems only, without drawing out remedies, is almost like writing a story with no plot. Nigeria’s youth is its greatest asset, with creativity and untapped potential. A serious country can’t afford to let this resource go to waste. More than ever. Now is the time to bridge the gap between the skills our youths (are assumed to) possess and the skills demanded by the labour market. 

Various vocational trainings (not the usual ‘crash’ workshops that hardly change a thing!) and education systems tailored to market needs can play a vital role. The government and the stakeholders in the private sector need to collaborate and determine what knowledge and skills young people should be taught to have rewarding jobs, considering how businesses are suffering from skills mismatch. Government should play a more active role in promoting appropriate education and Capacity-building for the youth.

Another equally important area to work on is entrepreneurship. Why not encourage more young entrepreneurs in a country where the labour market is fiercely competitive? Our youths are teeming with brilliant ideas waiting to be hatched. Government support, access to funds and mentorship programmes can nurture these promising— budding business moguls.

Technology and Innovation. Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem offers great hope. The digital world is undoubtedly a place where opportunities abound for a tech-savvy. The government should then invest in technology infrastructure and create an environment that supports innovation and startups and training and mentorship for young people. These and many other initiatives centred on progress and empowerment can go miles in addressing our plight.

The evil of unemployment in Nigeria is undoubtedly a ticking time Bomb, but it doesn’t have to detonate. By investing in skills development, nurturing entrepreneurship, promoting innovative empowerments and retaining our trademark diligence, we can defuse this albatross and unleash the incredible potential of our youths.

Sirajaddeen Mohammed Bello wrote from Yola, Adamawa State, via sirajaddeenm2019@gmail.com.

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

Following the report of how the Daily Nigerian journalist obtained a university degree from Cotonou in six weeks and participated in the NYSC scheme, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Education, had on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, suspended the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from Togo and Benin Republic universities.

In a statement on its website, the National University Commission labelled the blacklisted foreign universities as ‘degree mills.’

The statement reads in part, “The under-listed “degree mills” have not been licensed by the Federal Government and have therefore been closed down for violating the Education (National Minimum Standards, etc.) Act of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

The affected institutions include five universities from the United States, three from the Republic of Benin, six from the United Kingdom, and three from Ghana.

Below is the list of the 18 foreign universities the Federal Government banned from operating within its borders.

1. University of Applied Sciences and Management, Port Novo, Republic of Benin or any of its other campuses in Nigeria.

2. Volta University College, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana or any of its other campuses in Nigeria.

3. The International University, Missouri, USA, Kano and Lagos Study Centres, or any of its campuses in Nigeria.

4. Collumbus University, UK, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

5. Tiu International University, UK, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

6. Pebbles University, UK, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

7. London External Studies UK operating anywhere in Nigeria.

8. Pilgrims University operating anywhere in Nigeria.

9. West African Christian University operating anywhere in Nigeria.

10. EC-Council University, USA, Ikeja Lagos Study Centre.

11. Concept College/Universities (London) Ilorin or any of its campuses in Nigeria.

12. Houdegbe North American University campuses in Nigeria.

13. Irish University Business School London, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

14. University of Education, Winneba Ghana, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

15. Cape Coast University, Ghana, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

16. African University Cooperative Development, Cotonou, Benin Republic, operating anywhere in Nigeria.

17. Pacific Western University, Denver, Colorado, Owerri Study Centre.

18. Evangel University of America and Chudick Management Academic, Lagos.

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

An Islamic human rights organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has commended the Federal Government (FG) for suspending the accreditation of degrees obtained from the Republic of Benin and Togo. 

The ban on accreditation followed the discovery of irregular and fraudulent practices in the admission and course programs of some universities in the two countries.

MURIC’s commendation came through a statement issued by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, on Wednesday, 3rd January 2024. 

He said:

“A laudable move was made yesterday by the Federal Government (FG) when it suspended the accreditation of degrees from the Republic of Benin and Togo for their irregularities and fraudulent practices” (FG Suspends Accreditation Of Degree Certificates From Benin Republic, Togo – Channels TV).

“It will be recalled that Umar Audu, an investigative journalist of Daily Nigeria newspaper, reported recently that he bagged a degree within six weeks of being admitted into one of such universities and also served as a corper in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with the certificate obtained. The undercover journalist received both the transcript and certificate of the Ecole Superieure de Gestion et de Technologies (ESGT), Cotonou, Benin Republic, after six weeks only.

 It was this story that prompted FG to ban the accreditation of certificates obtained from universities in those countries (https://dailynigerian.com/undercover-how-daily-nigerian/). 

“MURIC lauds FG for banning those fraudulent certificates. The holders of such fake credentials pose a grave danger to the lives of Nigerians and the quality of public service, too. 

“We charge the ministries of education at both federal and state levels to be wary of holders of such certificates. Those found to have been employed with them should be shown the way out. Furthermore, the security agencies should fish out those behind the fraudulent admissions within Nigeria. Those are agents of the fake tertiary institutions in faraway Benin and Togo. They should be made to face the full wrath of the law.

“We demand an investigation into circumstances surrounding the clearance letter issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, which confirmed that the university (ESGT) is on the ministry’s list of accredited institutions. It was this letter which enabled NYSC to accept 51 fake graduates to serve in the scheme.  On its own part, NYSC authorities must take necessary action on the 51 fake corpers from ESGT who are serving illegally. They must be flushed out. 

“We also advise gullible but innocent Nigerians who have obtained the certificates to quickly set the machinery in motion to correct the anomaly. They should upgrade themselves by seeking authentic university admission either within or outside the country.

“Education may be the key to technological breakthrough and the concomitant industrial progress, but half-baked education and fake certificates are deadly dynamites in the system which is capable of destroying everything that may have been achieved.

“Before we draw the curtain, we find the undercover journalist equally worthy of encomiums. He went underground to unearth this educational fraud. He put his life on the line for the sake of his country. Umar Audu is worthy of emulation by his colleagues in the Fourth Estate of the Realm.”