Nigeria

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in its effort to strengthen partnerships with compliant stakeholders, has declared its dedication to fostering substantially improved relationships in 2024. 

This is contained in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday by the public relations officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwadah. 

According to Maiwadah, the announcement was made by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, during the International Customs Day Celebration held on Friday, January 26, 2024, at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos. 

The event, which was said to have been attended by prominent figures including the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and representatives from various government agencies and industry bodies, witnessed the recognition of the NCBN Caretaker Group with a Special Recognition Award. 

Addressing the audience, CGC Adeniyi stated the service’s commitment to the theme of the celebration, ‘Customs, Engaging Traditional and New Partners with a Purpose,’ aligning with the core objectives of consolidation, innovation, and collaboration. 

His words read, “This year, we commit to fostering a substantially improved relationship with all of you, our stakeholders, especially those who respect our rules. We recognize that authentic partnerships are constructed on mutual respect and understanding.” 

Highlighting the significance of collaboration, Adeniyi announced the launch of a Time Release Study in February 2024.

This comprehensive exercise aims to optimize processes and reduce the time for goods to be released at ports and border stations, with a call for active participation from all partners. 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, also affirmed the importance of customs and stakeholders working collaboratively to unlock the potential of collaboration and increase revenue generation. 

He commended the Customs leadership for prioritizing the use of scanners over physical examination, adding that it has a positive impact on revenue, efficiency, and competitiveness at ports.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, led a momentous launch of the COWA Secretariat on Monday, January 22, 2024, at Federal Housing Estate, Gwarinpa, Abuja. 

According to a statement released by NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwadah, on Tuesday, the inauguration of the National Secretariat was graced by the esteemed presence of COWA’s founder, Mrs. Prisca Nwadialo, and A’ishatu Sadiya Dikko Inde, the second National President, who played a pivotal role in establishing Association Chapters across the Federation. 

The event brought together Presidents of Officers’ Wives Associations from various security agencies in Nigeria, showcasing the unity and strength within the organisation. 

Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, in her address, expressed gratitude to the participants and recognised the invaluable contributions of the pioneer presidents, Mrs. Prisca Nwadialo and A’ishatu Sadiya Dikko Inde, who laid the foundation in 2009. 

Acknowledging the unwavering support of her husband, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the Customs Management Team, Mrs.

Kikelomo stated how this support has been a driving force behind COWA’s initiatives. These initiatives are carefully designed to enhance the lives of their members, focusing on women-centric programmes. 

Deputy Comptroller-General Festus Okun, representing the Comptroller-General at the event, commended COWA for its commitment to supporting and empowering women.

He regarded the launch of the National Secretariat as a testament to President Kikelomo’s focused leadership, assuring continued support from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

By Al-Janat Firdous Mohammed

In the dynamic world of media and entertainment, the definition of an ideal physique has continuously developed, creating and redefining societal beauty standards. 

Like many other countries, Nigeria has seen an increase in body trends among celebrities, which significantly impact their audience, particularly impressionable youth. 

From Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) to facelifts and Botox treatments, the pursuit of a specific look has become a dominant influence. The early 2000s saw a boom in the global fad of becoming ultra-skinny, with many celebrities striving for a waif-like appearance. 

However, in recent years, a paradigm shift has happened, with curvier silhouettes becoming the new ideal of beauty. BBLs have become highly fashionable, with celebrities publicly discussing and even getting these procedures to improve their curves.

Facelifts and Botox treatments have also become popular as people seek to combat the natural ageing process. The media’s portrayal of faultless celebrities frequently adds to false beauty goals, which may lead fans and adolescents to explore comparable operations.

Celebrities play an important role in moulding society’s norms, and their physical modifications can significantly impact their fan base, particularly the youth. The pressure to conform to these ideals can have a harmful influence on self-esteem and physical appearance. 

Many young people may feel compelled to change their bodies to fit in or meet the perceived standards of their idols. For example, the rise of social media has led to celebrities displaying their nearly ideal bodies, creating the illusion that these standards are attainable and desired. 

This can exacerbate fans’ vulnerabilities, creating a culture in which bodily changes are viewed as a way to earn acceptance and validation. How can we prevent our youths from succumbing to ‘fake’ beauty standards?

One, promoting body positivity and acceptance is critical for demolishing false beauty standards. Celebrities who advocate for accepting one’s natural body, warts and all, can be strong role models.

Second, educating young people about the manipulative nature of media images and the frequency of picture editing can help them develop a critical mindset. Understanding that the images portrayed may not reflect reality can help mitigate the media effect.

Equally, creating an environment where mental health discussions are normalised is critical. Young people who are dealing with their body image should have access to support networks, such as counselling services or community groups.

Several Nigerian celebrities have spoken out against unrealistic body ideals, serving as constructive role models for the kids. Actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington, for example, promotes self-love and frequently uploads unfiltered photographs to demonstrate sincerity. 

Similarly, media star Tolu Oniru-Demuren, commonly known as Toolz, has been outspoken about embracing her curves, challenging the concept that only certain body types are attractive. As body trends in Nigerian media emerge, it is critical to recognise the potential harm they might cause to the impressionable minds of young people. 

By developing a culture of body positivity, increasing media literacy, and offering mental health care, we can help young people resist the temptations of conforming to unattainable beauty standards. Positive role models in the celebrity world can significantly influence cultural attitudes regarding body image, fostering a healthier and more accepting mindset for future generations.

Al-Janat Firdous Mohammed is an NYSC member serving with PRNigeria.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

Unlike many other secondary school graduates who made their course choices based on advice received at a cafe during their JAMB/UTME registration, my decision-making process was different. I had clear aspirations when I graduated from secondary school, and nobody influenced my choices. I had always had a strong desire to pursue a career as a psychologist working in a psychiatric setting or as an outstanding journalist.

Unfortunately, the University of Maiduguri did not offer a psychology department, and financial constraints added to the challenges. Consequently, I chose Sociology and Anthropology as my first choice and Mass Communication as my second during my application years ago. However, I didn’t meet the cut-off mark for admission into Unimaid, and this setback led me to pursue Social Work at Ramat Polytechnic Maiduguri, where I completed my studies and graduated.

I found my time at the Polytechnic remarkably enjoyable because my lecturers and colleagues treated me exceptionally well, acknowledging my dedication to academic excellence by generously supporting me financially. My commitment to attending lectures, meeting assignment deadlines, delivering presentations, and thoroughly exploring course materials earned me this recognition.

However, a year later, I deliberately chose to apply for Mass Communication at Unimaid instead of opting for Sociology and Anthropology, despite numerous suggestions to pursue the latter—a field closely related to Social Work. I respectfully declined these recommendations because I sought a more demanding course to equip me with the necessary skills to achieve my desired career path. This decision was endorsed and validated by one of my senior colleagues who had recently completed his Ph.D. program.

Dr. Ibrahim Uba Yusuf, a lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, catalysed my decision to pursue Mass Communication. His words, “You have the qualities to excel in gaining admission and thriving in Mass Communication. Your aggressive commitment to excellence, despite facing challenges, speaks volumes about your potential.” 

His encouragement didn’t stop there; he cautioned me, “However, be aware that studying Mass Communication requires substantial financial investment. There will be numerous assignments that may strain your finances, potentially burdening both you and your father.” His guidance was pivotal in my choice to apply for Mass Communication through Direct Entry (DE).

Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim, a lecturer at the University of Cologne in Germany, recounted an incident where a young girl chose to pursue microbiology in her UTME without much understanding of the field. She revealed that she was advised at an internet café while registering for the university entrance exam, leading her to select a course she had little knowledge about—an astonishing decision made on a whim.

In reflecting on this, Dr Ibrahim unveiled a broader issue: the lack of proper counselling for many young people, particularly girls, when making important educational and career decisions. While some are enthusiastic about pursuing education, others may prioritise marriage. However, those with academic aspirations often lack guidance and support, sometimes falling prey to ill-informed advice. This can lead to unfortunate outcomes.

He emphasised the urgent need for parents, relatives, and especially older siblings, to actively engage with and support younger family members in understanding their aspirations and navigating life’s challenges. Dr. Ibrahim pointed out the common failure among brothers to have meaningful conversations with their sisters about their dreams and difficulties.

He concluded by urging immediate action, stressing that it’s never too late to start engaging with and guiding our children and younger siblings regarding their career choices after completing secondary school.

Lawan Bukar Miagana writes from Borno and can be reached via email: lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.

By Abubakar Umar Gbs

One of the primary challenges students face is the lack of institutional email addresses provided by universities. This seemingly minor oversight has far-reaching consequences, particularly in academic publishing. Platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate have become indispensable for scholars worldwide, providing a space to share and access valuable research. However, many Nigerian students are excluded from this global academic dialogue due to the absence of institute-issued email addresses.

In an era where collaboration and knowledge exchange transcend geographical boundaries, the inability to access such platforms places Nigerian students at a significant disadvantage. The academic community is a vast network where ideas are exchanged, collaborations are forged, and research is disseminated. By not providing students with the necessary tools to participate in this global discourse, we are inadvertently stifling their academic growth and limiting the potential impact of Nigerian research on the international stage.

Institute-issued email addresses are not merely a formality but a gateway to a wealth of academic resources. These email addresses authenticate the identity of students, ensuring the credibility of their work on platforms that demand institutional affiliation. Moreover, they foster a sense of pride and belonging among students as they become official representatives of their institutions on the global academic stage.

I urge Nigerian universities to recognise the significance of this issue and take proactive measures to address it. By issuing academic email addresses to students, we empower them to contribute meaningfully to the global academic community. This simple yet impactful step will bridge the gap between Nigerian students and the wealth of opportunities platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate offer.

In conclusion, providing institute-issued email addresses to students is not just a matter of convenience but a crucial step towards fostering a culture of academic excellence and global collaboration. By highlighting this issue, we can collectively work towards creating an environment where Nigerian students can fully realise their academic potential and make meaningful contributions to the global research landscape.

Abubakar Umar Gbs wrote via abubakargbs@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi D. Hassan

Nigeria is described as the most populous black nation in the world, with over 200 million inhabitants, Africa’s biggest economy, and endowed with variant mineral deposits to improve the living standards of its citizens. Yet, the country is bedevilled by gross corruption. Poor governance, ethnic tension, and abject poverty threaten integrity and sovereignty.

Even though, in the past, Nigeria witnessed serial military rulers, The nation transitioned to democracy in 1999. Since then, Nigeria’s leadership has emerged; leaders have been elected from different platforms and regions. Thus, the problems lingered; most elections were marred by irregularities, political interference, and power tussles from one inch to the next.

The political parties adopt the concept of rotating power between the north and south to accommodate the plural ethno-religious groups in the country. After the two tenures of Muhammadu Buhari. Bola Tinubu was nominated by the All Progressive Congress (APC). Amidst serials of allegations labelled against him by the opposition to hinder his andidacy, The bulk of Nigerians were enthusiastic about the level of experiences and transformation built in Lagos from 1999 to 2032.

On May 29, a new Nigeria’s president, Bola, was sworn in. In his inauguration speech, he made a striking remark on Nigeria, mentioning, ‘Subsidy has gone, the controversial fuel subsidy scheme. Four decades of financial assistance were institutionalised in the 1970s by the government to minimise the excessive cost of fuel (Premium Motor Spirit) to consumers and affordability to average citizens. Within a week’s time, the prices of basic household items, transport fares, and electricity began to rise at a high pace. Thus, fuel subsidy is the direct government intervention for the common man that benefits directly, without an odd process. Subsequently, the price increment affects the pharmaceutical industry acutely.

In recent months, patients from economically deprived backgrounds with terminal illnesses and diseases have been on recommended drugs and life-support medications. They are exposed to the brunt of fuel subsidy removal principles. Patients with asthma, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and sickle cell diseases find it hard to afford medications at exorbitant prices. Due to financial hardship, inflation, and 1000 per cent hikes in drug prices.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a British pharmaceutical and biotechnological company, withdraws from Nigeria. After 51 years of operation, The pharmaceutical firm is known for producing effective drugs, anti-biotics, anti-asthma, anti-malaria, allergy relief, painkillers, pain cream, and nasal decongestion. According to the report by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria faced a setback in sales of N7.75 billion ($9.83 million) from N14.8 billion last year. GlaxoSmithKline’s existence leads to a drug hike, patients being unable to have medication and an increase in fake drugs. Similarly, GSK faces challenges from the high cost of importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), a lack of steady power supply, and the depreciation of the naira against the US dollar.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the value of pharmaceutical products imported into Nigeria rose by 68 per cent to N81.8 billion ($99.1 million) between July and September 2023. The reports revealed that most of the drugs were imported from China, India, the United States, France, and Germany.

From the price survey across the country, the drugs were selling: asthma inhalers from N4,000 ($4.86) to N12,000 ($14.57), hypertension drugs from N10,000 ($12.14) to N20,000 ($24.28), augmentin tablets from N6, 000 ($7.28) to N24, 000 ($29.14), and Glucophage from N3, 800 ($4.61) to N6, 200 ($7.53). The prices vary between cities and regions.

David Uja, 63, a retired army officer frail from prostate cancer, undergoes chemotherapy for two sessions. Each cost him $100. She said, “For almost two months. All the prescribed drugs I used have already expired. The little pension received from the government is not enough to buy medicines at a high price. The economy is bad for us; people battle deadly sickness.”

“After I complained to my doctor, who relocated to the UK, Thanks to him, he sent me an Orgovyx tablet via courier, an expensive drug over $400, said Mr David.

Dataphyte reports that in 2021, only three per cent of the Nigerian population will have health insurance. Despite the guidelines of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), it is mandatory for Nigeria to benefit from the insurance. Public servants have smooth access to it. An employer will contribute 10% of the monthly basic salary, while the employee contributes 5%. The insurance covers the contributor, spouse, and four biological children less than 18 years old. The current monthly minimum wage is $44.45. Technical non-government workers are denied access to health facilities and medication.

In October, the Central Bank of Nigeria lifted the ban on 43 items after 8 years to allow access to foreign exchange and import-listed goods in the country. Never, pharmaceuticals and medical essentials are excluded from the list.

Interestingly, oil is the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy. Even so, the country has remained poor, with its citizens living below the poverty line of $1 per day. Nigeria has been nearly six months without a fuel subsidy. The majority of Nigerians are unable to afford standard health service delivery. These led to fast and quick deaths among the vulnerable. Others reside in rural areas that lack the means to buy drugs at a high rate. Alternative to traditional medicines.

Therefore, deciding on traditional medicine, given its low cost of purchase, Such medicine lacks a scientific approach, and most traditional doctors determine the nature of an ailment by mere observation. Outwardly of any examination and sometimes depend on spiritual healings in order to detect the course of sickness. These have made life more difficult in a nation with a life expectancy of 53.87 years.

Abdullahi D. Hassan is a freelance journalist and writer from Abuja, Nigeria. His journalistic and literary pieces were published in Daily Trust, The Guardian, Triumph, Politics Today, The Daily Reality, and Kalahari Review.     

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Board of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) paid a courtesy visit to Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), on January 16, 2023. 

The visit aimed to express gratitude for the CGC’s significant contributions as a distinguished Board member. 

Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, led the delegation and took the opportunity to congratulate the CGC on his appointment. 

He conveyed the federation’s heartfelt appreciation for the CGC’s active role as a board member and his unwavering support over the years. 

President Igali also acknowledged the CGC’s longstanding association with the board, dating back to his tenure as the Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College in Gwagwalada. 

This history of collaboration added a special dimension to the expressions of gratitude during the visit. In response, the CGC expressed his thanks for the honor and appreciation extended by the Wrestling Federation. 

Reflecting on his enduring involvement with the board, he assured the delegation of the Nigeria Customs Service’s continued dedication to promoting wrestling and other sports activities within the service. 

The CGC affirmed the service’s commitment to supporting the Wrestling Federation, pledging ongoing assistance and collaboration.

He underscored the importance of fostering training and sporting activities for Customs officers, highlighting the readiness of the Nigeria Customs Service to engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives with the Wrestling Federation. 

The visit highlighted the strong bond and collaborative spirit between the Nigeria Customs Service and sports federations, particularly the Wrestling Federation. 

This collaboration exemplifies a shared commitment to the development of sports in Nigeria, showcasing the positive impact of partnerships between government institutions and sports organizations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigeria Customs Service orchestrated a strategic meeting on Monday, January 15, 2024. 

This is contained in a joint statement signed by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwadah, and Ismail OmipidanMedia Aide to Honorable Minister, Marine, and Blue Economy on Monday.

According to the statement, key figures present included Hon. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola; Hon. Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali; Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR; and a virtual attendee, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria. 

The focal point of this consequential gathering was to devise and implement initiatives fostering cooperation, trade facilitation, and operational efficiency within Nigerian seaports. 

The statement partly reads, “The primary thrust of this collaborative venture was to deliberate and actualize initiatives that would not only open up ports but also foster seamless cooperation and trade and facilitation. A key focal point of discussion was the strategic integration of the Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology (NIIT) to bolster operational efficiency in Nigerian Seaports.

“Acknowledging the pivotal role of NIIT in actively decongesting ports, the meeting entrusted the Comptroller General of Customs with the mandate to champion and prioritize cargo scanning over traditional physical examination methods.

“Immediate action was endorsed to rectify and optimize all existing scanners at prominent ports such as Apapa, Tincan Island, Onne, and PTML. Simultaneously, the existing mobile scanners will be strategically deployed to facilitate expeditious cargo inspections.”

The statement added that in a cohesive effort, the meeting mandated the Comptroller General of Customs to prioritise cargo scanning over traditional physical examinations, recognising the pivotal role of NIIT in decongesting ports.

Plans were unveiled for efficient container evacuation from Port Harcourt to Aba, with future extensions envisioned for Onne Port. 

Considering rail track construction, the NRC agreed to bypass the fixed scanner at Apapa, ensuring unhindered scanning processes during crucial infrastructure development.

The meeting also advocated exploring public-private partnerships for scanning technology installation and maintenance to sustain efficiency and foster innovation in cargo inspection processes.

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.