Nigeria

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Maitama has directed the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to pay N100 million in damages to two officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) over a defamatory post on X.

Justice Yusuf Halilu delivered the ruling on Tuesday in a case marked FCT/HC/CV/4547/24. He held that the claimants, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, proved that SERAP published defamatory content about them on its official X account.

The dispute stems from a September 2024 post in which SERAP alleged that DSS operatives were “unlawfully occupying” its Abuja office and requested to see its directors. The claim surfaced less than a day after the organisation asked President Bola Tinubu to instruct the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to reverse an increase in petrol prices.

SERAP also called on the president to direct the DSS to end the “harassment, intimidation, and attack” on Nigerians’ rights.

The DSS confirmed that its personnel visited the organisation’s office but explained that the visit formed part of a routine investigation. It rejected the allegations and described them as “malicious”, while affirming its professionalism.

In a suit filed on October 17, 2024, the DSS argued that SERAP’s claims harmed its image and that of the two officials. The claimants maintained that the publication portrayed them as acting unlawfully and damaged their standing as security operatives. They sought N5.5 billion in compensation and demanded a public apology across multiple platforms.

In his judgment, Halilu stressed that SERAP, “a prominent reputable non governmental Organisation who pushes for Transparency, accountability, and protection of economic and social rights should also take cognisance of other peoples rights”.

He noted that the organisation must exercise caution in its public statements.

“It is most necessary for care and due diligence to be taken by SERAP before tweeting or releasing any particular information with respect to the action of agency of government for public consumption,” Halilu held.

“In the exercise of their right, SERAP must equally beware of other people’s rights. The right to be able to tweet and then put information out there must correspondingly take into account the fact that other agencies, i.e. even government, have a right to be given fair hearing as it relates to any such information.

“It is not in doubt that the said publication, which has gone viral, clearly affected the claimants mentally and psychologically.”

The court also found that the officers were suspended during the period of investigation.

“…The defendants who had all the time to have retracted the said write-up failed to do so,” the judge held.

“Claimants clearly are entitled to be assuaged in damages from the antecedents of what had played out, having established that the publication by the defendant is unjustifiably labellous.

“The law will not stand still whilst the rest of the world goes on, and that will be bad for good. The law is an equal disperser of justice, and leaves none without a remedy for his right. It is a basic and elementary principle of common law, that wherever there is a wrong, legal or injurious, that is, there ought to be a remedy to redress the wrong.

“It is my assessment that N100 million is a paltry sum that this court hereby awards against the defendants in favour of the claimants as damages.”

The court further ordered SERAP to issue a public apology through its website, X account, two national newspapers, and two television stations for the publication.

Justice Halilu also awarded a 10 percent annual interest on the judgment sum until full payment, along with N1 million as the cost of the suit.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to reconsider Nigeria’s bilateral ties with South Africa following renewed xenophobic violence against Nigerians.

The resolution came during plenary on Tuesday after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance presented by Donald Ojogo, who represents Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency in Ondo state.

Lawmakers expressed concern over rising hostility toward foreigners in South Africa, which has reportedly led to the deaths of at least two Nigerians in recent weeks.

While presenting the motion, Ojogo described the situation as an “alarming rate” of violence. He said Nigerians are being “selectively targeted” in the attacks.

He identified the victims as Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel. According to him, the two incidents occurred separately. He explained that Andrew was arrested on April 19 in Pretoria after an alleged confrontation with police. His body was later found in a morgue. He added that Emmanuel died from injuries after an assault by members of the South African National Defence Force on April 20.

“Both incidents were shocking as they involved South African security personnel,” the lawmaker said.

Ojogo also described the attacks as “a demonstration of ingratitude”, in view of Nigeria’s role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

“The trajectory in South Africa is a recipe for anger and reprisals in Nigeria, and there is a need to prevent such,” he said.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, also condemned the attacks. He said Nigeria holds a “very significant position” in Africa and has supported “many nations to be stronger than they are today”.

“An attack on any Nigerian anywhere is an attack on Nigerians everywhere. It ought not to be so,” he said.

“Nigerians did not allow the apartheid masters to suppress South Africans. South Africans who are liberated should not put other Africans in their territory in bondage. These are facts.”

Following a voice vote, the motion received the support of the house.

The lawmakers urged the federal government to “review all bilateral agreements with South Africa, trade and aviation treaties, targeted economic measures, including temporary suspension of issuance of business permits to new South African companies and a review of tax incentives enjoyed by existing South African firms in Nigeria”. They said the measures should remain until South Africa takes clear steps to end the attacks, prosecute offenders, and compensate victims.

The house also directed its committees on foreign affairs and diaspora matters to work with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to set up a 24-hour emergency response desk and a legal aid fund for Nigerians facing distress.

In addition, the committees were asked to collaborate with the federal government on a detailed evacuation plan for Nigerians in volatile areas. The plan is expected to include financial and logistical support for those willing to return home.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

In Nigerian politics, defections are no longer surprising. What is surprising now is how quickly they happen and how easily political actors move from one platform to another.

The recent defection of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is not just another political adjustment. It is a bold move. But bold does not always mean safe.

At first glance, the decision appears strategic. Internal crises within the ADC, legal uncertainties, and the pressure of electoral timelines make stability a priority. From that angle, shifting to a new platform may seem like a necessary step, an attempt to secure political ground ahead of a highly competitive 2027.

There is also strength in the alliance itself. The coming together of Obi and Kwankwaso brings national attention, regional balance, and an existing base of supporters. On paper, that is not just movement; it is potential consolidation.

But politics is not played on paper. It is played among the people. And this is where the real challenge begins.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress is still largely unfamiliar to many Nigerians. Beyond political circles and elite discussions, its presence at the grassroots remains limited. For a significant number of voters, especially at the lower levels, NDC is not yet a known political identity.

And in Nigerian elections, familiarity matters. Voters do not just choose candidates. They choose what they recognise. They choose what they trust. They choose what they understand. That is the gap this move must overcome.

Beyond visibility, there are emerging concerns about the platform’s stability. Reports suggest that the Nigerian Democratic Congress may be grappling with internal legal disputes. If proven true, this introduces an even more delicate risk. Moving from one troubled platform to another does not resolve instability; it simply transfers it. And in politics, uncertainty is a cost few can afford at this level.

Because this is no longer just about transferring political influence, it is about building voter awareness from the ground up within a limited time frame. That is not a small task. It is one thing to move with loyalists. It is another thing to move with the electorate. And history has shown that the two do not always align.

There is also a deeper concern. Frequent political movement, no matter how strategic, raises questions of consistency. When platforms change too often, voters begin to look beyond the movement itself and ask a more difficult question: What exactly is constant? Is it ideology? Is it vision? Or is it simply positioning?

These questions matter because today’s voter is less passive than before. There is growing awareness, scrutiny, and an expectation for clarity. So while this move may be necessary from a political standpoint, it is also risky from a public perception angle.

Because speed in politics can be a double-edged sword. Move too slowly, and you lose relevance. Move too quickly, and you lose trust. And right now, this move feels fast. Perhaps calculated. Perhaps unavoidable. But still fast.

So, is this a strategy or a survival tactic? It is arguably both. Strategy, because the timing aligns with political realities. Survival, because unstable platforms leave little room for hesitation.

From another angle, this move is not just a strategy or a matter of survival; it is a gamble. A calculated one, no doubt, but a gamble, nonetheless. It rests on the assumption that political influence can be transferred faster than voter trust can be built. And in a system where recognition often shapes voting decisions, that assumption may prove too optimistic.

But beyond both lies a more uncomfortable possibility: That this could be a leap into a platform that has yet to fully exist in the minds of the people. Because, in the end, political strength is not measured by alliances alone, but by acceptance. And acceptance cannot be transferred overnight.

So, while the move may look bold in Abuja, its real test will come far away from strategy rooms, in markets, in villages, and at the polling units. Where names are remembered, where symbols are recognised, and where unfamiliar platforms are often rejected.

And if that gap is not closed in time, what appears today as a strategy may tomorrow be seen as a miscalculation. Because in Nigerian politics, you can move ahead of the system, but you cannot move ahead of the people. And when that gap exists, even the most calculated move can quickly turn into a costly gamble.

Ultimately, this move will be judged by one metric: conversion rate. How many Obidients and Kwankwasiyya become NDC members, not just in spirit but on the ballot? If the answer is “most,” then history will call it strategy. If the answer is “some,” then it was survival. If the answer is “few,” then it was a miscalculation dressed as ambition. The voters are watching, and their silence right now is louder than any endorsement. For Obi and Kwankwaso, the real campaign did not start in Abuja. It starts the day a trader in Aba and a farmer in Gaya can point to the NDC logo and say, “That is us.”

Usman Muhammad Salihu was among the pioneer fellows of PRNigeria and writes from Jos.

muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

A former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has called on Nigerians to support the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing it as a platform committed to promoting good governance and strengthening democracy.

Kwankwaso made the appeal on Monday through his X (formerly Twitter) account, where he emphasised the importance of a credible political movement capable of delivering democratic dividends and improving the welfare of citizens.

He stated that the NDC is determined to create an environment where Nigerians can thrive and achieve their full potential.

He explained that his position is driven by a strong belief in democratic principles, noting that citizens deserve a system that prioritises their needs and aspirations.

According to him, the call is part of a broader effort to build a political structure that truly serves the people.

Kwankwaso further urged his supporters and other well-meaning Nigerians to align with the NDC, stressing that the movement represents a renewed effort to entrench accountability, expand opportunities, and reinforce democratic institutions across the country.

Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, is set to inaugurate the state’s Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, on Tuesday.

The swearing-in ceremony will hold at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, by 11:00 a.m.

A statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Ibrahim Adam, indicated that stakeholders, party loyalists, and members of the public are expected to attend the event.

The Daily Reality recalls that Garo was cleared by the Kano State House of Assembly last Monday following a successful screening conducted by a 12-member committee.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Nigerian government has launched an emergency voluntary repatriation program for its citizens in South Africa following a violent wave of xenophobic attacks and anti-migrant demonstrations.

Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed on Monday that at least 130 Nigerians have already registered to leave, with that number expected to climb as tensions persist. The decision follows the reported killings of two Nigerians in separate incidents involving local security personnel, alongside viral footage showing the harassment of African migrants in several South African cities.

“The safety of our nationals is non-negotiable,” the Minister stated, noting that the government has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner to express “profound concern” over the deteriorating situation.

The Nigerian High Commission and Consulate are currently coordinating logistics to facilitate the return of those who feel unsafe. This surge in violence has also prompted other West African nations, including Ghana, to issue emergency safety advisories to their citizens.

While both governments have historically worked to maintain strong bilateral ties, Nigerian officials warned that the continued failure to protect foreign nationals could severely strain the relationship between the continent’s two largest economies.

By Ahmed Usman

In the years following independence, Northern Nigeria stood at the forefront of the country’s economic progress. The region’s agricultural output, symbolised by the famous groundnut pyramids of Kano and by thriving cotton production across the savannah belt, powered employment, export earnings, and real-sector development. For a time, Northern Nigeria was not only a major driver of Nigeria’s economy but also one of the most economically vibrant regions on the African continent. Today, however, the region finds itself at a critical crossroads.

Over the past two decades, Northern Nigeria has faced a combination of security, economic, and structural challenges that have slowed its development trajectory. The rise of insurgency in the North-East, banditry and cattle rustling in parts of the North-West, and persistent farmers–herders conflicts have disrupted livelihoods, weakened agricultural production, and discouraged investment. These crises have inflicted enormous human and economic costs not only on the region but also on the Nigerian economy as a whole.

Yet security challenges alone do not explain the region’s economic difficulties. The deeper problem lies in the failure to convert the region’s extraordinary demographic and natural advantages into sustained economic growth.

Northern Nigeria possesses some of the most significant development assets in the country. The region accounts for more than 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population and contains over 80 per cent of the country’s arable land. It also receives abundant sunlight, suitable for solar power generation, and hosts numerous dams capable of supporting large-scale irrigation and energy production.

Despite these advantages, the region continues to record some of Nigeria’s most troubling development indicators. Poverty levels remain among the highest in the country. Youth unemployment is widespread. The region also accounts for about 20 million out-of-school children, one of the highest figures worldwide. Internally generated revenue in many northern states remains low, limiting the fiscal capacity needed to finance development.

This paradox of abundant resources alongside persistent poverty highlights the urgency of a new development strategy to transform its demographic advantages into a true demographic dividend.

At the heart of the solution lies the revival of the real sector. For too long, Nigeria’s growth model has leaned heavily on the service sector and oil revenues, sectors that generate limited employment relative to the country’s rapidly expanding workforce. Each year, millions of young Nigerians enter the labour market, yet the economy struggles to create sufficient productive jobs. Sustainable and inclusive growth will require renewed investment in sectors capable of generating large-scale employment. Agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, and renewable energy stand out as areas where Northern Nigeria holds a natural comparative advantage.

Agriculture in particular offers a powerful pathway for economic transformation. With vast fertile land and favourable climatic conditions, the region has the potential to become Nigeria’s primary agricultural hub once again. Expanding irrigation farming, adopting modern agricultural technologies, improving access to inputs, and strengthening agricultural value chains could dramatically increase productivity while generating millions of rural jobs. But agriculture alone will not be enough. The next stage of development must focus on building strong agro-industrial linkages. Processing agricultural products locally rather than exporting raw commodities can significantly increase value addition, stimulate rural industries, and expand export opportunities.

Infrastructure will be critical to unlocking these opportunities. Reliable electricity, modern road networks, efficient storage systems, and improved logistics are essential for connecting farmers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs to national and global markets. The region’s extensive dam infrastructure already provides enormous potential for irrigation agriculture and renewable energy if properly utilised.

Equally important is the need to invest in human capital. Northern Nigeria’s youthful population represents one of the region’s greatest assets, but only if young people are equipped with the education, skills, and opportunities needed to participate in a modern economy. Expanding access to quality education, strengthening vocational training, and promoting the development of technical skills must become central pillars of the region’s development strategy.

Yet economic progress ultimately depends on the strength of institutions. Transparent governance, accountable public institutions, and a regulatory environment that encourages private investment are essential for sustainable development. Reducing bureaucratic barriers, strengthening property rights, and improving the ease of doing business will be critical for attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

History shows that development trajectories can change when policy direction aligns with economic potential. Northern Nigeria once played a central role in powering Nigeria’s economic progress. There is no reason it cannot do so again.

The challenges facing the region are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With strategic investments, stronger institutions, and a renewed focus on the real sector, Northern Nigeria can unlock the immense potential of its land, its resources, and most importantly, its people. The region’s future should not be determined by the weight of its challenges but by the boldness of its choices. If those choices are made wisely, Northern Nigeria could once again emerge as one of the most powerful engines of economic growth in the country and perhaps on the continent.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

One of the editors of The Daily Reality, Dr Muhammad Sulaiman Abdullahi, has announced the death of his father, Malam Sulaiman Abdullahi, who passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026.

According to the family, the funeral prayer for the deceased is scheduled to be held at Kandahar Mosque in the Rijiyar Lemo area at about 11 a.m. on the same day.

The news of his passing has thrown family members, friends, and associates into mourning, as many continue to express grief and offer prayers for the repose of his soul.

Prayers are being offered for Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him mercy, and admit him into Aljannatul Firdausi.

By Moyamya Abraham

The rapid growth and widespread adoption of social media have transformed the way we communicate, access information, and interact with others. However, this transformation has also brought about significant challenges, including the spread of fake news, hate speech, and harmful content. In Nigeria, social media has become a tool for promoting tribalism, sectarianism, and divisive rhetoric, underscoring the urgent need for government regulation.

Government regulation of social media is essential to protect citizens from the harmful effects of online content. The spread of fake news, for instance, can have devastating consequences, including inciting violence, spreading misinformation, and undermining trust in institutions. Regulation would enable the government to establish standards for online content, ensuring that social media platforms take responsibility for the material they host.

Moreover, regulation would help curb the proliferation of hate speech and harmful content on social media. Hate speech can fuel sectarian tensions, promote xenophobia, and incite violence against vulnerable groups. By regulating social media, the government can establish clear guidelines for acceptable online behavior, protecting citizens from harm and promoting a culture of respect and tolerance.

Furthermore, regulation would enable the government to address the issue of online harassment and cyberbullying. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for online abuse, with many Nigerians facing harassment, intimidation, and threats. Regulation would require social media platforms to implement effective mechanisms for reporting and addressing online harassment, ensuring that citizens feel safe and protected online.

Additionally, government regulation would promote accountability and transparency in social media operations. Social media platforms have become powerful influencers of public opinion, shaping discourse and influencing electoral outcomes. Regulation would require social media platforms to disclose their algorithms, advertising practices, and content moderation policies, ensuring that citizens are aware of the information they consume.

The Nigerian government has a responsibility to protect its citizens from harm, and regulating social media is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. Regulation would not only safeguard citizens but also promote a healthy and responsible online environment. By establishing clear guidelines and standards for online content, the government can ensure that social media platforms operate in a manner that respects human rights, promotes national unity, and supports democratic values.

Effective regulation would also require social media platforms to invest in content moderation, employing humans and artificial intelligence to identify and remove harmful content. This would create jobs and stimulate economic growth, contributing to Nigeria’s development.

In conclusion, the need for government regulation of social media in Nigeria is pressing. Regulation would protect citizens from harm, promote accountability and transparency, and ensure that social media platforms operate responsibly. The Nigerian government must take proactive steps to regulate social media, establishing clear guidelines and standards for online content and behavior. By doing so, Nigeria can create a safer, more responsible, and more inclusive online environment.


Moyamya Abraham, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

By Martha Adamu

The question of whether skills or degrees hold more importance has been a topic of heated discussion among Nigerians, particularly on social media platforms, for quite some time now. While some argue that possessing a degree is the key to success, others insist that acquiring skills is the way forward. However, the real question is, why must we choose between the two? This dichotomy has sparked intense debate, with each side presenting compelling arguments. On one hand, degrees provide a solid foundation in a specific field, demonstrating one’s commitment and understanding of theoretical concepts.

Degrees open doors to various career opportunities and are often a prerequisite for many professions. Moreover, degrees equip individuals with critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills, essential for navigating complex work environments. However, critics argue that degrees alone are no longer sufficient in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving work environment. They point to the numerous graduates struggling to find employment, despite holding impressive academic credentials. This has led many to question the relevance of degrees in the modern job market.

On the other hand, skills enable individuals to apply theoretical knowledge practically. They make one more employable, increasing their chances of securing better job opportunities. In today’s economy, skills such as coding, digital marketing, and data analysis have become highly sought after. Many successful entrepreneurs and professionals attribute their success to acquiring valuable skills, rather than relying solely on their degrees. Moreover, skills provide adaptability and flexibility, allowing individuals to pivot into different industries and roles.

Rather than pitting degrees against skills, why not combine the two? Students should strive to acquire relevant skills while pursuing their degrees. This synergy will make them more attractive to potential employers and better equipped to tackle real-world challenges. Universities and institutions can play a vital role by incorporating practical training and internship programs into their curricula. This hands-on experience will enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, bridging the gap between academics and industry requirements.

The acquisition of skills and knowledge should not stop after graduation. Professionals must continually update their skills to remain relevant in their respective fields. This mindset of lifelong learning will foster adaptability and resilience. Furthermore, vocational training and technical education should be encouraged and valued equally with traditional degree programs. This will provide individuals with specialized skills, enhancing their employability and contributing to the country’s economic growth.

To address the skills gap, the government and private sector must collaborate to provide training programs, scholarships, and apprenticeships. This support will empower individuals to acquire in-demand skills, boosting the nation’s economic competitiveness. Moreover, policymakers should reevaluate the education system to focus on producing well-rounded individuals with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. By doing so, we can create a workforce capable of driving innovation and growth.

The education system should prioritize practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and lifelong learning. Educators and industry leaders must work together to develop curricula that reflect industry needs. This collaboration will ensure graduates are equipped with the skills required to succeed in the modern job market. Moreover, students should be encouraged to explore various fields and interests, developing a range of skills that make them adaptable and versatile.

In conclusion, the debate should not be about skills or degrees, but rather how to effectively combine both to produce competent, adaptable, and innovative professionals. As we navigate the rapidly changing landscape of work, it is crucial that we prioritize practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and lifelong learning. By doing so, we can create a workforce that drives economic growth, innovation, and prosperity for Nigeria.

Ultimately, the future of work depends on our ability to adapt and evolve. By combining degrees and skills, we can empower individuals to succeed in an ever-changing world. It is time to shift the focus from the debate to finding solutions. Students, educators, policymakers, and industry leaders must work together to create a workforce that combines the best of both worlds – degrees and skills. Only then can we unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s human capital.

Martha Adamu, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.