Nigeria

By Ibrahim Tukur

As we enter the last week of September, I am compelled to pick up my pen and continue writing as usual.

September marks Deaf Awareness Month, a time when the deaf community comes together to shed light on their unique culture and the challenges they face in their interactions with society.

Although I am unable to organise a learning event this time for personal reasons, I intend to celebrate this month by raising awareness about the various challenges faced by the deaf community.

One of the most significant issues that must be addressed is the pervasive problem of stereotypes that persistently plague the deaf. These stereotypes are prevalent across many societies, especially in Africa, where individuals hold negative misconceptions about the deaf. Some wrongly view the deaf as cursed, insane, mad, aggressive, or even unintelligent.

These harmful stereotypes give rise to discrimination against the deaf. When people harbour negative beliefs about the deaf, they often treat them unfairly. In some families, deaf individuals are treated like slaves due to the unfounded belief that they are mentally unstable. Some parents deny their deaf children access to education, erroneously believing that they have no promising future and won’t contribute positively.

Despite many deaf individuals proving these stereotypes wrong by excelling in higher education, they still face discrimination. Deaf graduates struggle to find good job opportunities, and even deaf schools, where they should be employed, are often staffed primarily by hearing individuals.

Stereotypes also result in stigmatisation. Many people avoid socialising with the deaf, assuming they are prone to madness or aggression and quick to engage in conflict. Personally, when I became deaf, I lost numerous friends who began avoiding me, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Moreover, stereotypes expose the deaf to mockery solely because of their inability to hear. People often make fun of them, use derogatory terms, and speak negatively about them. I personally experienced ridicule and mockery when I lost my hearing at the age of six, which frequently led to conflicts, ultimately forcing my family to relocate.

Thankfully, there are ways to combat this issue. Eliminating deaf-based stereotypes can begin with increased awareness about the nature of hearing impairment. Workshops and seminars on sign language should be organised, enabling better communication and understanding between the hearing and deaf communities. Additionally, introducing Deaf Studies into school curricula can familiarise students with the experiences and capabilities of the deaf.

It is crucial to recognise that deaf individuals are sane; they are not “mad” or “cursed.” They possess the same potential as anyone else and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Let us work together to break down these harmful stereotypes and promote inclusivity for the deaf community. They deserve it, without a doubt.

By Maryann Sholanke

Recently, the world has witnessed escalating tensions and conflicts between nations, often resulting in devastating consequences for humanity. As a prominent African nation, Nigeria must demonstrate its commitment to regional stability by actively resisting any inclination towards attacking its neighbouring country, Niger.

Humanitarian Consequences and Shared Ties

First and foremost, attacking the Niger Republic would undoubtedly lead to severe humanitarian consequences. Both countries share cultural, historical, and ethnic ties, with many Nigerians and Nigeriens having close family and social connections. Any military aggression from Nigeria would inevitably cause human suffering, displacement, and loss of life among innocent civilians on both sides of the border. Nigeria should be cautious not to inflict harm on its own citizens’ family members and friends in Niger.

Diplomacy and Cooperation

Furthermore, Nigeria should recognise that diplomatic engagement and cooperation with neighbouring countries foster peace and development. By upholding peaceful relations, Nigeria can establish harmonious partnerships that benefit its citizens through regional trade, economic growth, shared security initiatives, and cultural exchange. A peaceful and stable Niger enhances regional stability and contributes positively to Nigeria’s development and progress.

Regional Stability and Solidarity

Moreover, attacking Niger risks exacerbating existing regional tensions and instability. The West African region has long grappled with challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, and organised crime. Sustaining peace and security requires collaborative efforts among regional actors rather than exacerbating conflicts that may create fertile ground for extremists and criminal networks to thrive. Nigeria should maintain regional solidarity, actively engaging in forums such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) or the African Union (AU) to find common solutions to shared challenges.

International Reputation

In addition, Nigeria must promote and preserve its reputation as a responsible and respected international actor. Nigeria has historically been a key contributor to peacekeeping missions and conflict resolutions on the African continent. Its involvement in various regional initiatives, such as the fight against Boko Haram, highlights its commitment to regional peace and stability. By abstaining from military aggression towards Niger, Nigeria will reinforce its image as a nation dedicated to peaceful coexistence and diplomatic resolutions.

Long-Term Implications

Lastly, Nigeria must consider the long-term implications of attacking Niger. Regional conflicts often harm the stability and development of the nations involved, leading to weakened economies, strained resources, and prolonged instability. Rather than investing in warfare, Nigeria should allocate its resources towards education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation to empower its citizens and strengthen its national development.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Nigeria should resist any inclination towards attacking Niger, as it is imperative to prioritise peace, regional stability, and human welfare. By engaging in peaceful resolutions, diplomatic negotiations, and collaborative efforts with its neighbours, Nigeria can set an example for other nations and contribute positively to the long-lasting development, prosperity, and peace of the West African region.

Maryann Sholanke is an Entrepreneur, child advocate and media personnel, and she writes from Abuja. She can be reached via marycool72@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

For some weeks, witchcraft news has been making rounds in the North. Several trained bloodsuckers were rumoured to be sucking blood from their victims. Videos of such incidents went viral on social media, especially Facebook and WhatsApp. Some individuals, particularly women who appeared to be victims themselves, were allegedly caught in the act of trying to suck their victims’ blood.

In one video, a woman alleged to be a witch was seen surrounded by a swarm of youth while another lady fainted, her body lying on the floor. To resuscitate her, the purported witch woman was asked to skip her, and intriguingly, she woke up. But in another video, the victim couldn’t wake up, so voices from the background kept shouting: skip three times!

Many burning questions arise when it comes to claims of witches. Challenging this perception, one Islamic scholar presented a compelling argument. He asked, ‘Why are the victims always poor and destitute?’ According to the Sheikh, he has never heard of a governor’s mother, a minister, or any public figure’s mother being paraded as a witch. This argument deals a significant blow to proponents of witchcraft.

Another similar question is: Why do claims of witchcraft usually originate in rural environments? The more rural the area, the greater the belief in witch existence. I discussed this scenario with a roommate some years ago, and he mentioned that he also had reservations about the issue of witches. He shared an anecdote about their younger sister, whose alleged ‘witchiness’ would never surface except when it was time for her to return to boarding school. She would always be fine at other times, but whenever school resumption was near, she would seem to change, which raised suspicions of foul play. However, this guy would climb down the pedestrian; he seemed torn between his thoughts and societal beliefs. In the same conversation, he defended the notion that rural areas have more witches because they have forests everywhere. What a ditch in logic!

I have once turned around to make a prank on witch allegations. While Nigeria was at a crossroads, a time in 2014 when Boko Haram, the partial removal of fuel subsidies, and the depreciating value of the naira to the dollar combined to wreak havoc on the masses. Similar rumours erupted, claiming that when one received a call from a certain number, their blood would be sucked away. I decided to play a prank. I saved my number as that controversial number in my friend’s phone contact and then called him. Immediately, he began reciting every prayer known to him.

Several theories have been put forward to explain the phenomenon of witchcraft in the North. One theory suggests that the nation’s predicament could have given birth to such rumours. Bulama, a famous cartoonist, also lends credence to this opinion. He created a cartoon depicting a man happily devouring at a food junction. Upon seeing him, a passerby paused to ask his companion, ‘Isn’t he the person being witch-hunted?’ The other person, intrigued, replied, ‘He’s being witch-hunted by hunger.

Another theory also suggests that it could be government propaganda. According to this view, the government might be making a clandestine move to divert public attention amid economic hardship. This theory can’t be outrightly denied because, as the saying goes, ‘biri yayi kama da mutum’ (Monkeys resemble humans!).

Public belief could also play a significant role. Doctors have told us several times that the efficacy of medication has a strong correlation with the patient’s beliefs. In other words, the more patients believe in the potency of the drug, the more effective it is. For instance, our Fulani herders are said to never recover from illness without injections. The average Fulani herder believes that injections are the only way to recover from illness. So, when they are down with malaria, for instance, they have to get an injection to recover, whereas city dwellers can recover with just drugs.

The issue of rumour-mongering during periods of instability is not unique to Nigeria or Africa alone. After the Second World War, the atmosphere was filled with fear and uncertainty, and everybody was looking for someone or something to blame. Suddenly, the myth of the Bermuda Triangle (Devil’s Triangle) emerged. With several aircraft and ships disappearing mysteriously without a trace, this section of the North Atlantic Ocean was believed to possess some supernatural power that not even a bird could dare cross. Several decades later, the myth survives.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin can be reached via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Obansa Nimah

It’s the year 2050. I’m on the balcony of my smart home in Port-Harcourt, waiting for the arrival of my last son, who is on his way to becoming the youngest medical doctor in Africa. At 18, Tariq is in his final year at the University of Abuja Medical College. Then I remembered how the last 3-decades saw a revolution in tertiary education that eliminated industrial actions from various unions in the sector and saw the emergence and proliferation of world-class, affordable public and private varsities.

The Nigerian government, in May 2023, after a 10-month-long strike by varsity lecturers and closure of universities, signed into law “The Tertiary Education Revolution Act”. The Act saw an allocation of 20% of the national budget to education across all levels, allowed for a public-private partnership, implemented a citizen-funded education trust fund in the form of “tax-ED”, and gave universities the autonomy to channel human and internally generated resources to local and international partnerships in research, technology and innovation.

The Act also issued a clause that banned the elites from sending more than a child abroad for school and a fine of 500 million naira for violators of the ruling, to be donated to government-owned varsities. I smiled as I remembered the war that the Act sparked at its outset and how the stakeholders ensured that its implementation not only raised the country to the educational capital of the world but also reduced poverty, created jobs, improved security, grew the economy, increased admission into schools, and improved the overall well-being of Nigerian students.

Tax-ED saw Nigerian citizens donate 5% of their call airtime to education. It meant that 100 million mobile users donated 500 million naira whenever they recharged at least N100. I remember how enthusiastic my parents were to publicise and implement tax ED. I couldn’t blame them as I was the first of 6 children, and it was my 8^th year in the university studying a 6-year course, all thanks to the incessant strikes.

It was a moment of agony and intense psychological distress for millions of Nigerian students and their families. As I delved deeper into the memories of those days, including how I had to hurriedly marry Tariq’s father because I wasn’t getting any younger, I began to giggle. I stared at the horizon with gratitude to a wonderful Lord for bringing us this far.

Tax–ED not only revolutionised the educational sector, but it also united the country towards a goal. For the first time, there was a concerted effort towards ensuring the revolution yields fruition. Everyone had a role to play, and they did it so well. It made Nigerians realise that more could be achieved outside the terrain of ethno-religious sentiments. All were united to accomplish a common goal. The success of tax ED led the government to launch another revolution in the healthcare sector. In about five years, sure-MED was found, and the national health bill was fully implemented. Sure-MED had two components: “Tax-MED” and “enjoy-MED”.

Tax-MED was a 5% upgrade from the Tax-ED dividends and either a $5 charge for each diaspora ticket bought by Nigerian Airways or a $10 charge for tickets to other airlines. Enjoy-MED saw the wealthy Nigerians paying for poorer Nigerians through a scheme that ensured 2.5% of their wealth was donated to the trust fund in return for being allowed to continue medical tourism abroad and having few shares of the now booming mechanised agricultural farming coordinated by the Central bank to achieve national and continental food sufficiency.

As I got to this part of the flashback, I thought about how cheap I got the bananas on my table. Hunger, poverty and ignorance have drastically reduced nationwide due to the 3-decade long interventions. The country has become so secure and united that I could decide to live anywhere, everywhere!

The nation’s oil and gas sector now uses artificial intelligence for most of its work; it is now powered by a Nigerian-modified solar world in the north. Morality classes are now held in every home where elders exhort and reward moral values. The government and law enforcement agencies uphold justice for or against anyone. CCTV cameras and robots now man our roads, railways, airports and public spaces. Artificial intelligence is now the norm, even in homes. The country is thriving. The ideal Nigeria has arrived, I grinned and mumbled to myself. As I moved to sit down, I heard Effle, the robotic security alarm, announce that Tariq was there.  I left the balcony to embrace him, only for him to excitedly tell me he got to Port-Harcourt using the world’s first solar-powered speed rail.

Obansa Nimah wrote via nimah013@gmail.com.

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has accused a section of the media and its allies of continuously neglecting the increasing death toll of Nigerian Muslims but are quick to report the fabricated number of dead Christians at the instance of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

It has come to our notice that the majority of security-related challenges being faced in Nigeria, most of which result in the death of Muslims, especially when in large quantity are mostly unreported or, at best, under-reported; we at the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) have seen this as a ploy to portray Muslims as the perpetrators of these various crimes in Nigeria, ranging from terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustlings, banditry, etc.

The Muslims have always been complacent, consoling themselves without making noise on various social media platforms whenever the unpleasant news of the death of their brothers and sisters in Islam filters in. This is because Allah has emphasised to us through the Holy Quran that “All Souls Shall Taste Death” (Qur’an 3:185), whereas CAN is always quick at playing the victim card, and its voice can be heard at the seventh heaven.

Social media and traditional news media also become awash with unprintable comments to escalate the incident beyond the real magnitude. The Muslims are, therefore, always at the receiving end. In contrast, Muslims lose the highest number of victims of the security challenges Nigeria is currently facing.

It is a known fact that the majority of the act of terrorism by the dreaded terrorist organisation in Nigeria (Boko Haram) has led to the death of more Muslims than Christians; the terrorist group detonated bombs in metropolitan areas in the northern part of Nigeria where the Muslims have the highest population. It is, therefore, only logical to say that the terrorist group targets Muslims more than Christians; thus, any Christian who becomes a victim is more collateral damage because the real targets are the Muslims.

In an effort to set the records straight, MURIC has carried out a statistical analysis of violent attacks and has gathered data on Muslims who were casualties of various attacks carried out by armed groups such as Boko Haram, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), armed bandits, herdsmen and the so-called unknown gunmen.

It was discovered that between 2021 and 2022, the total number of Muslims who have become casualties is as high as two thousand two hundred and sixty-four (2,264). This figure is for reported cases. Only Allah knows the exact number of thousands of unreported cases of Muslim deaths.

Of this figure, 1,829 were killed by Boko Haram, 288 Muslims fell victim to banditry, 98 were killed by unknown gunmen, 36 by herdsmen and 13 by IPOB.

We appeal to the Muslim populace not to seek vengeance as Allah is sufficient for us, and only Allah knows the punishment most suitable for perpetrators of the killings. We also remind co-country men to tread softly and not to insult the sensitivity and cool-headedness of Nigerian Muslims; our religion teaches “Peace”, and on that mantra, all our engagements are based.

Lastly, while we acknowledge that efforts made by the security agents are already yielding results, we implore them to increase their vigilance to ensure a prosperous and peaceful nation.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

As a citizen of this great country, my dream of a united and prosperous Nigeria is not merely a wish but a vision that I believe is soon to become a reality. 

Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. With over 250 ethnic groups, various languages, and a vibrant tapestry of cultures, our nation possesses immense potential for creativity, innovation, and resilience. I firmly believe embracing and celebrating this diversity is vital to unity.

As a giant of Africa, Nigeria has abundant natural resources, including oil, minerals, and arable land. Our economy has the potential to thrive, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for all Nigerians. To realise this dream, we must invest in sustainable development, diversify our economy, and ensure that the wealth generated benefits all citizens.

Furthermore, A united and prosperous Nigeria must prioritise education and innovation. Our population is a valuable asset, and by providing quality education, vocational training, and support for research and development, we can unlock their potential and drive economic growth.

To achieve prosperity, we must demand transparency, accountability, and good governance from our leaders. A united Nigeria requires leaders who prioritise the welfare of the people, uphold the rule of law, and work tirelessly to eliminate corruption.

Security is a fundamental prerequisite for prosperity. We must address security challenges, promote peace, and foster an environment where businesses thrive, and citizens can live without fear. 

Investing in infrastructure, such as roads, healthcare facilities, and power generation, is essential for our nation’s progress. This improves the quality of life, attracts investments, and creates job opportunities.

Active participation of citizens in the democratic process is crucial. We must engage in dialogue, vote responsibly, and hold our leaders accountable for their actions to ensure that our collective dream is realised.

Together, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen enjoys the fruits of unity and prosperity and our nation stands as a beacon of hope and progress for all of Africa.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes and can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By By Muhammad Ubale Kiru

The recent decision by France to ban the iPhone 12 due to concerns about its radiation emissions has sent shockwaves across the tech world. While this move may seem drastic to some, it reflects a growing global awareness of the potential health risks associated with certain electronic devices. China, too, has taken a stand against iPhones in official capacities, citing national security concerns. 

France’s decision to bar the iPhone 12 from its market underscores its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. The government’s primary motive appears to be ensuring that the radiation emitted by these devices does not pose any risks to public health. 

Similarly, China’s decision to restrict the use of iPhones by government officials stems from concerns over data security. The Chinese government has long been cautious about potential espionage activities by foreign entities, and it views certain American technology companies with suspicion.

The big question now is: where will these banned iPhones end up? For many, the answer seems to be Africa, particularly countries like Nigeria. In Nigeria, consumer demand for iPhones remains high, and concerns over radiation emissions are often secondary to the allure of the brand. Additionally, a significant portion of the population may not fully understand the potential health risks associated with radiation.

To shed light on the issue, let’s briefly delve into what radiation is and how it can impact health. Radiation is the emission and propagation of energy in the form of waves or particles through space or a medium. In the context of iPhones, we’re talking about radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted when the device connects to cellular networks or Wi-Fi. 

Radiation can affect health in several ways:

1. Thermal Effects: RF radiation can cause the heating of body tissues, particularly when a device is held close to the body for extended periods.

2. Non-Thermal Effects: Some studies have suggested potential non-thermal effects of RF radiation, including changes in brain activity, sleep disturbances, and alterations in cell function. While the evidence remains inconclusive, these concerns warrant further research.

3. Cancer: Radiation has been associated with a potential risk of cancer. It can cause DNA damage, mutations in genes, uncontrolled cell growth, and eventually lead to tumor formation. Brain cancer, in particular, has been studied in relation to mobile phone use.

While it may be challenging to change consumer preferences overnight, it is vital to raise awareness about potential health risks associated with certain devices. People should consider their health when making choices about the technology they use daily. 

Furthermore, governments in African nations, including Nigeria, should play an active role in monitoring and evaluating the safety of electronic devices before they enter the market. By adopting stricter standards and conducting thorough assessments, they can better protect their citizens from potential health hazards associated with radiation-emitting devices.

Muhammad Ubale Kiru is a tech enthusiast, social activist and freelancer. He can be reached via muhdujkiru@gmail.com.

By Emurence Imran Nata’alah

This is not a promotion of feminism, but it has become part of our people to meddle in what does not concern them, which is uncool in Islam: “Part of the perfection of someone’s Islam is leaving alone that which does not concern them.”

A woman passes through different positive and negative phases: People will define her life, plan her life, and monitor and count every move she makes.

Know this: The most annoying thing about these people who plan a woman’s life is that they aren’t family; they barely know a thing about her but are eager to say one or two negative things about her. I meant something like: What is her biggest sin, whom she sins with, how did she sin the alleged sin, and how did she react to the stupid allegations?

A woman must be super strong, for what will come is bigger and mightier than seen in movies like “Iron Lady” and all of Its sorts. People are mean, especially to women trying to be successful without going astray or becoming a negative example to the younger ones.

This does not mean people generally hate successful women out there, but in reality, people hate success. Even men face stuff like these, but it’s more prevalent when it’s a lady in the picture.

A woman should not let people know her weaknesses because If she cries out because of the negativity, they would call her a witch, and if a woman smiles, they would say it’s too much — she has no class.

If a woman frowns, she would be called ungrateful; she has forgotten all the blessings bestowed upon her, and if she isolates herself because of the negativity by keeping her head up—they would ask questions like: “Why are you isolating yourself?” “Are you depressed?”

When a woman minds her business and interacts with others, they would say she’s bragging. While she’s waiting for the right spouse—which is the most common thing in our part of the world; they suddenly become curious and considerate—people would accuse her of liking material things and not having a sound mindset.

The moment things start falling in place and a woman keeps her head up, BOOM! They would still say she’s too old, and no one will want her or suit her.

When she starts concentrating on profits in her business, people say she’s fornicating or selling her body for money and hurl many more negative comments just to hurt her. These people believe she can’t succeed in her small business without venturing into part-time prostitution.

When a woman finally gets a spouse, these people would say, “She’s married to a poor man. Is that all that she got after all the pride and ego?” Only a few will pray for you, honestly. All you need to know is do and don’t do this; happiness will be by your side.

When a woman’s life is going perfectly or something close to perfect, her husband is caring, and serenity becomes her friend, they would still manage to say she charmed her spouse. They would call him wife, and she’s the husband. According to their perspectives, a woman can’t be loved wholeheartedly, romantically, without charming her spouse.

They say, “A real man should be brave and act like a king in his house.” So, how does acting as a king correlate with an inferiority complex? I don’t know if there’s a correlation between being an Alpha and being foolish because an Alpha would never stoop this low because of an inferiority complex in the name of being an Alpha. Anyway, it’s a story for another day.

A woman is a lady with an entrepreneurial mind. She’s a lady who wants freedom and needs to be pampered as always like it’s always been before an inferiority complex came into existence.

Give women freedom. Don’t marry them and cage them for your selfish reasons. If you don’t want a successful or career woman, please go for something within your reality and spare these for those who live In the same way.

I know some of you would be in awe of how I came up with these negative stories, while there are many positive stories about women treated as Queens, that they are.

Okay. Hear me out. The number of marriages that crashed due to the inferiority complex isn’t something we should write about; the resulting negative treatment of spouses due to the inferiority complex isn’t something close to being friendly.

Despite all these phases, some women fought through and are living happily ever after, but then, we have to let the younger ones prepare for what is about to come because society has a bigger influence in their lives.

I’m saying that a woman shouldn’t be deprived of her rights and chances of making things right. She needs to be corrected in a romantic and caring way. She has imperfections in her nature. She shouldn’t be a target of suspicious actions.

Give her a chance, consult her and make her bloom. It’s not that hard.

By Prof. Abdalla Uba Adamu

Sabon Gari Kano has always been a melting pot – drawing multiple nationalities and ethnicities who converge in the settlement and make it truly unique. Prof. Adamu Baikie’s “Sabongari: The Simmering Melting Pot of Kano State” is the latest addition to the literature on the area. Having grown up in the area, Prof. Baikie gives a unique ethnographic account of the place and its development.

More of a personal recollection from a resident, than a rigorous archival excavation of community history, Baikie’s Sabongari [sic – that is exactly how he spelt it throughout the book] provides additional fascinating information about other developments in Kano. In particular, Education, in which Prof Baikie also released a companion book, “Nigerian Education: Ivory Towers & Other Issues.” It’s a pity that the few pictures included in the Sabongari book did not come out too well, being black and white and blurry.

Prof. Baikie’s discourse on Sabon Gari (my preferred spelling) is similar to Neil Skinner’s “Alhaji Mahmudu Ƙoƙi – Kano Malam”, in which the subject provides a primary participant observer’s insight about the development of either events, or in this case, a community. It is truly fascinating.

There were, of course, other works on Sabon Gari Kano, long before this. The most monumental was Ahmed Bako’s “Sabon Gari Kano: A history of Immigrants and Inter-group Relations in the 20th century” (UDUS Press, 2006) and based on his groundbreaking PhD thesis, “A Socioeconomic History of Sabon Garni Kano, 1913-1989” submitted to Bayero University in 1990. Prof. Baikie approaches the study of Sabon Gari from the perspective of ‘son of the soil’ who lived in the neighborhood, playing footer, attending Church service there and interacting with the waves and waves of Nigerian and West African immigrants who settled in the borough as neighbors and friends.

Prof Adamu Baikie mentored both me and my father at various stages of our careers, so I certainly don’t mind plugging this wonderful memoir. This is not a review, as I am sure Dr Shamsuddeen Sani will be doing the honors soon enough [on Facebook]. It is just to let people know that the book, launched on 20th August 2023, is now available at Zamani Bookstore, Sabon Gari at the cost of ₦3,500. It is another addition to our understanding of the history of Kano.

By Aliyu Musa Dada

Today, I want to bring our attention to a heartbreaking incident that highlights the shortcomings in our government’s support system. Dr. Tijjani Ibrahim, a young and dedicated medical doctor, fought bravely against decompensated chronic liver disease caused by Hepatitis B infection.

Despite the efforts of his friends to raise funds for his treatment, Dr Ibrahim tragically passed away before realising the required amount. This unfortunate event raises serious concerns about lacking a robust system to assist individuals, even those tirelessly dedicated to serving others, like Dr. Ibrahim.

We, as citizens, deserve a government that prioritises the well-being of its people, especially those in critical need of medical support. It is disheartening to witness the struggles faced by individuals who have dedicated their lives to saving others, only to be let down by a system that fails to provide adequate assistance.

Dr. Ibrahim’s passing is a stark reminder of the urgent need for reforms and investment in healthcare infrastructure. It should not rely solely on the goodwill and generosity of friends and well-wishers to fund essential medical treatments. Our government should be responsible for ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens, especially those in dire situations.

In this moment of grief, let us remember Dr. Ibrahim as a compassionate and dedicated doctor who selflessly served his patients until the end. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.

May Dr. Tijjani Ibrahim’s soul rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire us to advocate for change. Let us raise our voices and demand better support systems for individuals facing medical challenges.

We must unite as a community to address these issues and hold our government accountable. We can start by engaging in constructive conversations, raising awareness about the gaps in healthcare support, and urging policymakers to prioritise the well-being of their citizens.

Remember, change begins with us. Let us honour Dr. Ibrahim’s memory by actively working towards a healthcare system that provides timely and accessible support for all those in need.