Nigeria

By Aisha Musa Auyo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Uzair Adam Imam

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is alerting the public, particularly those with loved ones abroad, to a new scam that targets innocent families.

Fraudsters are impersonating NDLEA officers and contacting unsuspecting citizens with a fabricated story.

As described by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, “Under this new scam scheme, the fraudsters will call unsuspecting citizens to inform them of the arrest of their relatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja Lagos or any other international airport in Nigeria with illicit drugs upon arrival in the country.”

Babafemi continued, explaining the scammers’ tactics, “After throwing the family members into panic, the scammers then make a demand of millions of naira to facilitate the release of such persons from NDLEA custody.”

The NDLEA has successfully thwarted similar attempts in the past. Babafemi highlighted, “At the moment, there is one of such scenario the Agency has just investigated.

“In this case, the picture of a Nigerian man based in the US is being circulated with an audio of a purported NDLEA officer negotiating the payment of N5 million with a female relative for the release of the US-based Nigerian man purportedly arrested at the Lagos airport on Friday 22nd March upon his arrival with a ‘contraband.”

The NDLEA emphasizes that these claims are entirely fabricated. “Just like in previous instances, our investigation has also shown that the current incident is the work of scammers,” affirmed Babafemi.

He reiterated, “No NDLEA officer is involved in the audio conversation and the person whose photo is attached to the audio recording being circulated is not in our custody at MMIA or any of our Commands either as at yesterday or any other day.”

The NDLEA urges the public to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to these scams. “The family members involved in this case are advised not to part with their hard-earned money to scammers,” advised Babafemi.

“Nigerians with loved ones abroad are also urged to keep discussions on travel plans of their relatives to themselves to avoid the hijack of such by criminal elements for devious schemes.”

If you encounter a similar situation, the NDLEA provides contact lines for assistance: “+2347064670026 and +2348033326327.”

By Ismaila Academician

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ishaka Mohammed

Apart from a business trip to Enugu within 24 hours, I’ve spent all my life in northern Nigeria, but it was in 2014 that I learnt that “Arewa” means “North”. In fact, I had once referred to the word as the name of a bloodsucking occult society, thanks to rumour-mongers.

As children, my peers and I heard about “Ogbenu” (occultists who sucked children’s blood). Although the “bloodsuckers” were believed to be far away from our land, we were constantly warned to avoid them.

We received one of such warnings around 2003 or 2004, when a new brand of notebook was generating massive sales in our village.

The cover of the book had an inscription, “The great people of the great land…the people of Arewa land,” and featured pictures of some men wearing Hausa traditional attire on horses. It was rumoured that the men were Ogbenu, so writing in the book would drain one’s blood, while exhausting all pages would cause death.

Consequently, as some children and I avoided the book, various others destroyed the copies they already had. The brand disappeared from our community.

For the sake of context, I’m from Inye, a village in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, and I was a pupil at Engineer Bob Alfa Primary School (EBAPS), Ojuwo-Inye, at the time of the incident.

If a single rumour could be that effective by mere word of mouth, imagine how damaging it could be in this age of digital revolution. 

You have the right to review products or services but be fair to brands and companies. Business owners struggle for the survival of their establishments, so it’s wicked to ruin their efforts. A single sentence could make or break an establishment. Business owners are also human beings, so they deserve fairness. 

Nonetheless, whoever wants to be obstinate should either be ready to provide sufficient evidence or ask one Chioma Egodi Jnr. A single Facebook post and some comments about Nagiko Tomato Mix forced Erisco Foods Limited to deal with her. Deleting the post didn’t help matters, as the company involved the law and insisted that she prove her claims about the product.

Some people have argued that the company overreacted, but I think otherwise: she deserved what she got.

Ishaka Mohammed can be reached via ishakamohammed39@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has affirmed its commitment to collaborate closely with the Nigeria Export Promotion Commission (NEPC).

The announcement came during a significant meeting held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, as the management team of NEPC paid a courtesy visit to the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. 

Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed the NCS’s eagerness to join forces with NEPC to streamline export processes, alleviate bottlenecks, and foster a conducive environment for exporters.

He stressed the pivotal role of this collaboration in redefining exports to enhance outbound trade volumes. 

During a joint session at the Customs Corporate Headquarters, CGC Adeniyi underscored the imperative of supporting exports, particularly in addressing logistical challenges.

His words were echoed by Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, who commended CGC Adeniyi’s notable achievements since assuming office.

Ayeni stated Nigeria’s wealth of resources, especially in agriculture and solid minerals, highlighting the pivotal role of advocacy in addressing exporters’ challenges. 

Se further reiterated the importance of non-oil exports for economic growth and called for concerted efforts to actualize the “Export 35 redefined” initiative.

She also urged sister agencies to actively contribute to mitigating logistical hurdles and proposed the establishment of aggregation centers to facilitate smoother export processes. 

In response to the discussions, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, Customs Area Controller Lilypond Export Command Lagos, amplified the necessity of the Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) to repatriate export proceeds.

By Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani

The country has sadly, in recent times, witnessed pockets of protests and widespread agitation over the rising cost of living and skyrocketing prices of foodstuffs.

“In the past few weeks, residents of Kano, Ogun, Niger, and Oyo States have taken to the streets to protest the high cost of living caused by spiralling inflation in the country.”

In times of desperation, especially when our leaders are too much for themselves and care less for those they govern, calling for them to sacrifice while at the same time living flamboyantly at the expense of society, however, when basic needs like food and shelter too often become scarce, individuals may resort to extreme measures to survive. Looting, particularly of public goods or food supplies, usually occurs under the guise of hunger, with perpetrators justifying their actions as necessary for survival. 

While the act may stem from a genuine need, its consequences extend far beyond the immediate acquisition of goods. No one can deny the fact that we’re having a trying time as a country. However, this should not justify the unfortunate events happening in the country. It’s a crying shame people are taking laws into their own hands at a time when we need all hands on deck to surmount the pervasive insecurity in the land. 

Firstly, we should remember that looting undermines social order and exacerbates existing societal inequalities. When individuals or groups resort to looting goods belonging to marketers or producers, they bypass established systems of fairness, creating unnecessary chaos and insecurity in society. This erodes trust in institutions and undermines the rule of law, leading to further social unrest and instability. No one can tell where we are headed as a country of diversity. Moreover, looting disproportionately affects the sense of reason, exacerbating social disorder and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

However, we all lamented the current economic hardship facing the country resulting from inflation caused by the federal government’s policies. However, the consensus among the average Nigerian is that the current administration deliberately inflicts misery and poverty on the citizens, though they keep telling us that tough decisions are necessary, which usually bring about good things in the future. But not in the case of Nigeria. Where reversed is the case in some instances.

Moreover, the psychological impact of looting cannot be overstated. Communities already reeling from the effects of poverty, conflict, or natural disasters are further traumatised by the breakdown of social order and the loss of trust in their fellow citizens. As a matter of urgency and necessity, the government, traditional rulers, and community leaders shouldcome out boldly condemning and discouraging the recent looting of people’s goods. Silence can lead to hopelessness and despair, exacerbating social tensions and hindering progress. We can’t continue this way as a civilised society that is expected to move forward in the community of the nation. 

Furthermore, looting undermines efforts to build a resilient and sustainable nation by depleting public trust and damaging societal value. 

While looting public goods under the guise of hunger may seem like a desperate act of survival, its consequences are far-reaching and detrimental to society. From undermining social order and exacerbating inequalities to hampering economic growth, however, I appeal to the government to stand by its responsibility in Addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, strengthening social safety nets, and promoting sustainable development are essential steps in mitigating the desperation that drives individuals to resort to looting in times of crisis.

The widening gap between average Nigerians and those in government is too broad; policies that would make all Nigerians feel the impact of leadership should be implemented.

Therefore, I appeal to all those in authority and philosophies to educate society and allow them to understand their boundaries. The government should create an environment that offers the larger population a sense of belonging and shun all violent acts undermining constituted authority. After all, if Nigerians strive in various endeavours, the government will have a smooth way of implementing its policies to benefit all.

Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani Writes from Galadima Mahmoud Street, Kasuwar Kaji Azare, Bauchi State.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has taken a significant step towards fostering international trade by reopening the Kamba Border, following directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR).

The newly appointed Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Iheanacho Ojike, officially announced the reopening on Friday, March 15, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for cross-border commerce. 

In a press release issued by Mohammed Salisu, the Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer for the Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Ojike, reiterated the strategic importance of the Kamba Border, emphasising its role in revenue generation for Kebbi State.

Speaking at the border’s reopening ceremony, which was attended by stakeholders, the district head of Kamba, Mamuda Fana, and representatives from sister agencies, CAC Ojike emphasized the commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while upholding national security interests. 

The reopening of the Kamba Border signals a renewed focus on promoting lawful commerce that contributes positively to the nation’s development agenda.

Comptroller Ojike stated the readiness of Customs officers to ensure fair and transparent trade practices, provided that stakeholders comply with existing customs laws, declare their goods accurately, and fulfil their financial obligations to the Federal Government. 

However, CAC Ojike issued a stern reminder that certain commodities, particularly grains, remain prohibited for exportation due to concerns about food scarcity within the country.

This measure reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard national food security interests. 

In response to the reopening, Mamuda Fana expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for ushering in a new era of economic opportunity for the people of Kebbi State, particularly those engaged in cross-border and small-scale businesses in Kamba town.

He pledged to work closely with customs authorities to discourage illicit trade activities and promote lawful commerce. 

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and enhance border security, Comptroller Ojike paid courtesy visits to key stakeholders, including the Emir of Gwandu, Major General Muhammed Iliyasu (Rtd), and other sister agencies.

These engagements underscore the importance of multi-agency cooperation in curbing smuggling activities, ensuring community safety, and facilitating smooth trade operations across borders.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Africa’s wealthiest individual, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has launched an initiative to feed 10,000 fasting Muslims daily in Kano State, along with distributing one million bags of rice nationwide through the Aliko Dangote Foundation. 

According to a statement by Samira Sanusi, an official of the foundation in Kano, the aim is to alleviate hunger amidst economic challenges across Nigeria.

The gesture, valued at over N13 billion, seeks to provide essential sustenance during the holy month of Ramadan. 

The distributed meals, which include jollof rice, white rice and stew, jollof spaghetti, yam, beans with chicken, and beef, are complemented with a bottle of water and a drink for each recipient.

These provisions are dispersed at Juma’at mosques, streets, prisons, orphanages, remand homes, and other locations in Kano city and its environs. 

Musas Maikatako, a beneficiary of the meal, expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, highlighting its significance in easing the hardship faced by many during Ramadan.

He stressed that the provision of solid food for breaking the fast is a significant relief, particularly for those who would otherwise have only water. 

Similarly, Hajiya Inna Tukur shared her joy at receiving such nourishing food during challenging times, expressing heartfelt thanks to Aliko Dangote and his foundation for their benevolence. 

This initiative builds upon Dangote’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy, with Mrs. Sanusi revealing that for over 30 years, the Dangote Foundation has quietly fed 10,000 residents of Kano daily with breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This sustained effort, originating from Dangote’s mother’s residence in Koki and various cooking locations, shows a profound dedication to uplifting communities and combating hunger. 

Through such impactful initiatives, Aliko Dangote continues to demonstrate his commitment to social responsibility.

By Abbas Datti

The state minister of education, Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has been making giant strides in improving the nation’s education sector and ensuring that all children have access to quality education. His dedication and hard work shouldn’t go unnoticed, and he deserves to be commended for his efforts.

One of the key initiatives implemented in his intertwined collaboration with the minister of education, Tahir Mamman, is expanding access to educational programmes in underserved communities. By building new schools and upgrading existing ones, the minister has ensured that more children have the opportunity to receive a quality education. This has helped to bridge the gap between urban and rural education and ensure that all children have equal access to educational opportunities.

Furthermore, the state minister has been actively working to improve the quality of education in schools. He has introduced new teacher development programmes, like the Teacher Internship Scheme (TIS), provided support for teachers, and introduced innovative programs for teachers to adapt to a new digital age and assist in the development of smart education in Nigeria. This has not only improved academic performance but has also instilled a love for learning in students, helping them to reach their full potential.

The Teacher Internship Scheme which was introduced by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), to address the dearth of teachers in the field of smart education being championed by the commission in Nigeria, with the establishment of 37 smart schools across the country.

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is providing technical support for the execution of the smart education programme in Nigeria and has committed about $10.4 million to the project.

Additionally, the state minister has been a champion for inclusivity in education by creating a transnational educational policy that will promote diversity and massive enrollment in tertiary education institutions. The minister has also created a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or abilities. This has helped to create a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Moreover, Yusuf Sununu has shown a deep commitment to improving the education sector and ensuring that all children have access to better and quality education

Abbas Datti writes from Kano via abbasdatti448@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

President Bola Tinubu expressed profound grief and condemnation over the recent attack on Nigerian soldiers during a rescue mission to Okuoma Community in Delta State. 

Tinubu expressed his sadness in a statement released today. 

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, reportedly claimed the lives of several military personnel, including high-ranking officers. 

The President described the attack as unprovoked and cowardly, stating the sacrifices made by the brave servicemen and women who put their lives on the line to maintain peace and security in the nation.

Among the casualties were a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers, along with one civilian. 

Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and loved ones.

He was quoted as saying, “I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished..

He noted that any attack on the armed forces is a direct assault on the nation itself and vowed to relentlessly pursue peace and security across Nigeria. 

The President granted full authority to the Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice swiftly.

He praised the heroism, courage, and patriotism of the fallen soldiers, noting that they join the ranks of the nation’s esteemed defenders who sacrificed everything for the country. 

President Tinubu equally reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to achieving peace and tranquilly in every corner of Nigeria, calling upon divine intervention to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguard its armed forces.