Nigeria

By Uzair Adam

Troops from Sector 3 of the Multinational Joint Task Force successfully intercepted and prevented a Boko Haram assault on Magumeri Community in Borno State over the weekend.

Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, the MNJTF spokesperson, shared the details on Sunday. He explained that based on credible intelligence, the troops set up a tactical ambush and engaged the terrorists as they attempted to launch an attack along the Magumeri-Maiduguri axis.

The terrorists, using motorcycles and an alternative route, were met with heavy gunfire from the well-positioned troops. In the face of this, they abandoned their weapons and fled.

The troops recovered an arms cache, including AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and contraband such as marijuana and Tramadol.

This operation, Osoba added, not only thwarted the planned attack but also reinforced the security efforts in the Lake Chad region.

The MNJTF continues to intensify patrols to ensure stability in the area.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Ajuri Ngelale, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s special adviser on media and publicity, has announced that he will be taking an indefinite leave of absence to focus on medical issues concerning his immediate family. Ngelale hoped to return to national service when circumstances, recovery, and fate allow.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the decision and wishes Ngalele well.

Ngalele’s leave of absence has sparked numerous reactions from many Nigerians. This comes as no surprise; anyone taking an ‘indefinite’ leave or resigning from President Tinubu’s administration is likely to be viewed negatively due to the country’s current economic challenges and some of the administration’s unpopular decisions and policies. 

Additionally, there is a public perception that those not in the Tinubu administration’s ‘inner circle’ may encounter difficulties or hiccups—though such assumptions have always been Nigerian. However, the Daily Nigerian reported that Ngalele was forced out. The paper said that Mr Ngele was only given a soft landing to quit as presidential spokesman, but he chose to quit all his positions.

Since Mr Ngelale’s appointment, which was influenced by the first family, campaign spokespersons have been under internal pressure to replace him with “someone with better media relations” or “someone the president is more pleased with.”

DAILY NIGERIAN also gathered that Mr Ngelale was also on a collision course with other media aides working for the president for allegedly sidelining them in the running of the affairs of the office. According to sources, Mr Ngelale had also chewed more than he could bite, taking several roles that affected his primary media relations role. The sources said the tasks of being a Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen have created a role strain and given the cabal a reason to convince the president to replace him.

Given his skills, experience, and expertise, Ngalele has done an outstanding job as a spokesperson. While the Tinubu administration must find a capable replacement for him, they must focus on more than just appointing another Senior Special Adviser on Public Affairs. The administration requires a dynamic and versatile media and PR team that can shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, as Nigerians will not now listen to just standard good English.

President Tinubu needs a PR team that can effectively reinvent Nigerians’ familiar image of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The focus should not be on finding a replacement for Ngalele but on assembling a dynamic and strategic team capable of rebranding and promoting Tinubu. This team should highlight his accomplishments and present them in a way that can restore public confidence. 

For instance, Tinubu’s PR should focus on the North, where the president’s rating decreases daily. Moreover, it’s essential to showcase the value and contributions of each cabinet member, emphasising what they bring to the administration’s overall agenda. The greatest mistake Tinubu will make is to bring on board politicians; most Nigerians will not listen to them.

President Tinubu should Rejig his media and PR team, and they must communicate in a way that resonates with Nigerians and actively engage with them. They must speak to Nigerians in the ‘language’ they understand, but the bottleneck is that the only language Nigerians understand is what will bring ‘rice and beans’ to their tables.

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

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has forwarded the names of members of the inaugural Governing Board of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) to the Senate for confirmation.

The step follows President Tinubu’s signing of the North West Development Commission Bill into law on 24 July, marking a crucial milestone in the Commission’s establishment.

NWDC Governing Board Nominees: Chairman: Ambassador Haruna Ginsau (Jigawa)MD/CEO: Professor Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji (Kano)Members:

– Dr. Yahaya Umar Namahe (Sokoto)

– Hon. Aminu Suleiman (Kebbi) – Sen. Tijani Yahaya Kaura (Zamfara)

– Hon. Abdulkadir S. Usman (Kaduna)

– Hon. Engr. Muhammad Ali Wudil (Kano)

– Shamsu Sule (Katsina)

– Nasidi Ali (Jigawa)

The nominated board members are expected to contribute their wealth of experience and expertise to the Commission’s mandate of developing the North-West region.

The NWDC will focus on catalysing significant growth, economic empowerment, and social development of the region.

President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to supporting the NWDC in its mission to bring sustainable development to the North West is steadfast.

By Aliyu Hamza

It is so sad that Nigeria’s economic and security architectures are obviously on the precipice and it is so unfortunate nothing much tangibly convincing is being done to salvage the sorry situation. This is especially worrying as it seems that overtime, the leaders of our country have resolved to subject us to a state of dystopia. Every reigning administration always seem to perform worse than its predecessor.

On the security front, the Nigerian state has submitted the fates of its citizens to the “Mercy” (or should one say Wrath) of rag-tag terrorists and bandits marauding and slaughtering about with impunity. Some theories even suggest the security crisis is State-abated and certain information and explanations, especially as they relate to Solid mineral deposits in worst hit areas, command logical credibility to such theories especially as it relates to Zamfara and Sokoto states.

On the economic front, the Nigerian economy continues to defy every economic logic. For decades, a country producing petroleum resources has never had a single petroleum drilling/extracting company only to outsource services to international firms who are also looking to feast on our resources.

Paradoxically, the home refineries meant to process the extracted crude have been deliberately incapacitated to favour fuel importation, a venture which benefits a few selected oil moguls who sell imported products at discretionary prices amid a shady subsidy regime.

Then came, subsidy removal in 2023. The nation was told it would favour competition which would force down prices. On the contrary, we’ve seen price hikes eversince including the recent September hike which ironically, was introduced same day as the first private domestically built Dangote refinery commenced roll out of its refined petrol product.

In normal mainstream economic sense, internal production ought to have eliminated importation and other overhead costs which would bring down prices. But in our country, the reverse is the case. The resource managers of our nation always cite new economic jargons to the bewilderment of the masses to justify price increases every now and then.

STATE-BACKED PSYCHO–FINANCIAL TERRORISM

Today, there is nothing cheap in Nigeria as a result. Even the most common of foods such as Garri and sweet potatoes are no longer cheap and are nearly out of reach for the poor.

Pathetically, there are now people who feed on edible weeds to survive because they can’t afford basic food. There are also those including many familiar faces who were formerly doing averagely ok financially, but who have now become visibly emanciated while always wearing worried looks — clear symtomatic manifestations of the current oppressive economic climate.

Meanwhile, the government keeps on rolling backwards on its duties by eliminating incentives and subsidies (from kerosine to petrol, electricity to education) while heaping taxes (VAT and others). This is as incomes remain stagnant in the midst of an insecure/unstable environment unfavourable to both internal businesses and foreign direct investments.

The so-called minimum wage the government pledged to increase after much dragging with the labour unions has not even been implemented but the same government has already devised strategy of taking it back with the other hand through the outrageous fuel price increase.

In essence, the message being signalled to us is that ordinary Nigerians are expected to continue bearing brunts upon brunts of every economic austerity measure and pains that accompany them.

Contrarily, government officials keep on perpetuating mind boggling and incomprehensible state thefts regime after regime – financial crimes of which majority of the perpetrators go virtually unpunished.

For the citizens, they say we should keep on exercising patience for better days of prosperity, days that don’t ever look forthcoming as the economic squeeze bites harder. This is what I call State-backed and tolerated Psycho-financial Terrorism being perpetuated against its people.

NATIONAL PATRIOTISM?

Some may say it is an incitement to sedition but to be bluntly honest, the sense of optimism and patriotism I used to have for Nigeria have been significantly degraded all thanks to the mounting levels of socio-economic and security dystopia that have now thrived for at least over a decade. Nothing I think, would bring back such national fervour in me unless there’s tangible national progress as I now live as a helpless passive citizen.

As the government has proven incapacitated (at best description) or unwilling (at worst) to provide the basics for its citizens, patriotism in the common man as he concentrates on how to survive seems farfetched. One should not even mention the plights of our droves of Internal Displaced People (IDPs) languishing in miserable camps. For many, claims of patriotism today are a mere fantasy. A mere fantasy indeed!

Aliyu Hamza is a PhD student of Political Science in Ahmadu Bello University. He is also a writer, public affairs commentator and international relations analyst. You can contact him via haliyu86@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

Seaman Abbas, a Nigerian Navy personnel who spent six years in detention without trial, has finally regained his freedom.

Abbas’s release was confirmed when he appeared alongside his wife on the popular Brekete Family Talk Show, amidst tears and jubilation.

The emotional reunion was witnessed by millions of viewers, as Abbas recounted his harrowing experience in naval custody.

Abbas’s wife, who was visibly shaken, expressed gratitude to human rights organizations and advocates who fought for her husband’s release.

“We are thankful to everyone who stood by us. We are grateful to the Brekete Family for providing a platform to share our story,” she said.

The Brekete Family Talk Show’s host, Ordinary Ahmed Isa, hailed Abbas’s release as a victory for justice and human rights.

“Seaman Abbas’s case is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of protecting human rights. We will continue to amplify the voices of the marginalized,” Isa said.

Abbas’s release has sparked widespread celebration, with many calling for reforms in Nigeria’s military justice system.

By Hassan Abdulkadir

The Fulani are traditionally a nomadic, pastoralist trading people across the dry hinterlands of their domain. They are the largest nomadic ethnic group in the world, inhabiting several territories over an area larger than the continental United States.

The Fulani follow a code of behaviour known as “PULAAKU,” which encompasses patience, self-control, discipline, prudence, modesty, respect for others (including foes), wisdom, foresight, personal responsibility, hospitality, courage, and hard work.

It wouldn’t be fair to judge an entire faith, religion, or tribe by the actions of a few aberrant individuals. It is more just to evaluate them based on the scriptures and teachings of the faith or the traditions and conventions of the tribe. 

History has shown that some of the greatest massacres committed on this planet were by individuals like Adolf Hitler, a European Jewish Christian. However, his actions were never equated with his religion or tribe. 

Similarly, Benito Mussolini and Menachem Begin, who were responsible for numerous atrocities, were not judged by their faith or tribe. Yet, when a single Fulani or Muslim individual commits an act of terrorism, the entire religion (Islam) or tribe (Fulani) is unjustly blamed.

Moreover, the most infuriating aspect of this situation is that many of these individuals are brainwashed and used by heartless people who are not Fulani. For example, videos circulating online vividly demonstrate this is true. In one instance, an arrested Fulani man explains how much the masterminds paid him after abducting someone. 

The amount given to the Fulani men is not even a quarter of the ransom collected, yet they are still blamed. It’s important to note that some of them are forced into this due to intimidation and life threats by the gangsters. These masterminds exploit the Fulani and Bedouins because they know the bush well. 

For God’s sake, as educated, wise, and prudent individuals, how can anyone believe that the people they consider inept could successfully carry out such complex operations without being caught? They can’t even perfectly operate phones. This is unfair. Such acts require logic, strategies, and prudence. However, due to biased perspectives, Nigerians are generalising the entire tribe instead of targeting the deceived and manipulated individuals among them.

Candidly, the truth must be trumpeted. When our southern brothers say “Hausa-Fulani,” they’re not referring to the tribe but to a Muslim or Northerner, whom they consider terrorists, bandits, and so on. Meanwhile, in some parts of the southern region of this country, there are places where humans are slaughtered like animals. Generalising the Fulani as bandits and terrorists is truly unfair and unjust.

All the calamities this country, especially the North, has been facing—such as insecurity, insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and critical hardship—are not due to the Fulani people but are the result of politics, business, and the selfishness of our unpatriotic and tyrannical politicians.

I urge the youth to be patriotic, equip themselves with adequate and pure knowledge, and engage in politics. The rich also have a crucial role to play by sponsoring these energetic youths in politics for the betterment of our country and for the coming generations to flourish.

May Nigeria prosper and thrive, amin.

Hassan Abdulkadir wrote via hassanabdulqadeerabubakar@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The Nation’s clarion call resounds, and the youth—our graduates—respond. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is central to this national narrative. Some may argue that these graduates bask in the comfort of government stipends for a year, while others counter, “How substantial is this money anyway? It’s merely enough to keep body and soul together.”

For many, this stipend transcends mere sustenance; it symbolises stability. Upon completion of their service year, the promise of a regular income dissipates like a mirage. As I approach the conclusion of my service year, my thoughts drift back to a reflection penned in 1993 by Yushau Shuaib, the esteemed publisher of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential.

His words resonate profoundly: “After the National Youth Service, what next? From here, where next? How long have you fantasised about your next port of call after dedicating your life to academic pursuits? Will you further your studies, seek employment, or perhaps get married?” If marriage is part of your post-service plans, ensure you save for the honeymoon.

As my time in NYSC draws to a close, I can’t help but ponder the uncertain future that awaits me and my fellow corps members. For many, this may mark the last time they receive a government-issued salary. Some leave the country for greener pastures, convinced that this nation offers them no future.

Others, however, have jobs waiting for them, merely contingent on their release from service. Yet, many corps members will never earn as much as they did during their service year; some may find even better opportunities, while others remain lost amidst uncertainty. In today’s society, we question: Are we destined to join the legions of unemployed graduates? Is education no longer the key to societal recognition?

We witness individuals with multiple degrees grappling to find viable employment, seemingly rendering education futile. The rise of the “Yahoo boys,” who embody the new elite without formal education, fosters the narrative that “school is a scam.” Our education system requires rigorous restructuring and oversight, but we also need a comprehensive reorientation of our values and aspirations.

One acquaintance is willing to resort to unethical means to secure a job, even contemplating bribery for a lucrative position, craving societal approval. But what of those lacking the financial means or connections? Who stands by us?

The fear of poverty could well be the beginning of misguided pursuits. Might some be tempted to resort to fraud, political thuggery, or even prostitution—now sanitised as “hookups”? Will others turn to terrorism or kidnapping, driven by necessity, as opportunities evaporate in the job market?

Private organizations face significant hiring constraints stifled by economic instability. In fact, many are laying off staff simply to stay afloat—how, then, can they possibly accommodate fresh graduates? What becomes of those of us unwilling to engage in illicit activities? Are we consigned to a life of struggle?

For some, the service year impedes success; for others, it serves as a crucible for personal growth and dream realisation. Some may even decline job offers, viewing the pay beneath them, while others face a daunting lack of direction.

How can we elevate our nation when out of millions of corps members, only a fraction—perhaps five hundred—find meaningful employment? And of those, many receive insufficient compensation to support a family amidst this unforgiving economy. How can youth deprived of job opportunities or financial means to foster their ventures lift our nation?

Nigeria has devolved into a landscape where viable jobs are an elite commodity. In the 70s and 80s, even an O-level holder could readily secure employment; today, the opposite rings true. Are we not at an impasse? Is my generation not doomed to suffer for the decisions of the past? While I believe in humbly serving my nation, this conviction must be matched with tangible opportunities.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: One crucial step toward alleviating terrorism and insecurity is ensuring job security for our youth. An idle mind may indeed become the devil’s workshop. If corps members exit service devoid of decent employment, they may turn to unlawful means for survival, jeopardising our nation’s safety.

In this digital age, AI has transformed many operational processes, executing tasks with unprecedented speed and efficacy. Yet, rather than perceiving AI as a threat to job security for corps members, we should embrace the potential for collaboration, where human creativity meets AI’s efficiency. Mastering this synergy could unlock exceptional possibilities in the workforce.

Mr. President, we recognize the intricacies of governance, but we implore you to prioritise job creation for corps members and youth. We are eager to contribute to national development with commitment and integrity, aspiring to build our nation through unity and loyalty.

To our security agencies: Strengthening your efforts requires greater employment prospects for youth, particularly graduates. Doing so would alleviate the rates of insecurity plaguing our nation. Please take our concerns to the President and collaborate with experts in the field.

We advocate for a specific percentage of corps members to be employed by the government upon the conclusion of each NYSC batch yearly. This initiative would instil hope in the youth, steering them away from crimes and social vices.

We extend our gratitude to the NYSC for the training and life lessons garnered throughout this journey. The NYSC must collaborate with the government to catalyse job creation amid an industrial revolution. Such a partnership would solidify the NYSC’s reputation as a cornerstone for job creation and national growth.

To our legislators, senators, and esteemed members of the National Assembly: We urge you to convene and enact laws that foster job creation through the NYSC scheme, benefitting graduate corps members.

State governments must also step up, providing increased employment opportunities for departing corps members. This collective effort can rekindle hope among the youth and everyday citizens, paving the way for national progress. Nigeria is our home; Nigeria is who we serve.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a candidate for national development and a Mass Communication graduate serving with PRNigeria in Abuja.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed an unconditional and compressive investigation into the allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian correctional service (NCoS).

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo unequivocally condermed the alleged reprehensible behavior, emphasizing that any form of indiscipline, unprofessionalism, and corruption will be met with zero tolerance and severe consequences within the paramilitary services under the ministry’s purview.

“The ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said.

The minister has set up a special investigative panel headed by the permanent secretary of the ministry of interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, to probe these allegations and submit a comprehensive report.

Other members of the committee include Dr. Uju Agomuoh of prisoners Rehabilitation and welfare action (PRAWA) who will serve as the secretary;Mrs Eva Omatese, Director of legal ministry of interior, Mr. Usman Nasiru, Director of joint services ministry of interior, and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo ( consultant Iyke) of the Brekete family show.

The minister reassures the public that the investigation will be rigorous, transparent, and impartial, and that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personel found guilty.

By Mujahid Nasir Hussain

Gashua, a local government area in Yobe state, Nigeria, is facing a distressing public health crisis. An alarming increase in the number of individuals succumbing to kidney diseases is being reported, yet the underlying cause remains unidentified. 

The kidneys are essential organs located in the retroperitoneal part of the body. These bean-shaped organs perform several crucial functions, including blood filtration, blood pressure regulation, electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, blood calcium regulation, and many more. However, when they become impaired, those vital functions are compromised, leading to severe and devastating deterioration and complications.

The rising number of deaths linked to kidney diseases in Gashua is a cause for serious concern. It is impossible to implement effective interventions without identifying the underlying cause, whether environmental, genetic, or related to lifestyle factors. 

The Yobe state government must prioritise an investigation into the root causes of these kidney diseases to find an end to the problem. Public health agencies, researchers, and medical experts should be mobilised to conduct thorough epidemiological studies and screenings to identify potential risk factors. 

In addition, there is also a need to take proactive measures through:

• Raising Awareness:  Educating the community about kidney health, risk factors, and early symptoms of kidney disease to encourage timely medical consultation.
• Enhancing Healthcare Facilities: Improving access to quality healthcare services, including dialysis centres and nephrology specialists, to manage and treat kidney diseases effectively.
• Providing Clean Water: Ensuring the availability of clean drinking water is essential, as contaminated water is a known risk factor for kidney damage. 
• Encouraging Lifestyle Changes: Promoting healthy dietary practices and regular medical check-ups to prevent kidney-related diseases.

Mujahid Nasir Hussain studies at Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria and writes via mujahidhnasir@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has ordered an immediate investigation into bribery allegations made against some of the Commission’s officers by Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, in a viral video circulating across social media platforms.

In the video, Okuneye, an ex-convict, accused unnamed EFCC officers of collecting ₦15 million from him in exchange for dropping money laundering charges.

The allegations were brought to light in a video posted by Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan.

In a statement released by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, on Tuesday, the Commission’s Chairman responded by assembling a team of investigators to thoroughly examine the claims.

As part of the investigation, the EFCC has summoned both Okuneye and Otse to its Lagos office to assist in uncovering the details of the alleged bribery.

The EFCC assured the public that the allegations would be meticulously investigated, with the findings made public in due course.