Nigeria

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.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu,

Recently, while scrolling through Facebook, I came across a post by Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim, a lecturer and editor of The Daily Reality. He wrote, “We need to address the issue of buying and selling job offers in Nigeria. It’s disheartening that we no longer condemn this corrupt practice; it’s becoming normalised.” His words hit home, reminding me of my own experience.

A day after graduating from Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi, a familiar acquaintance, approached me and asked, “Now that you’ve graduated, what’s next?” I replied, “NYSC and then maybe looking for a job.” He chuckled and said, “Nigeria is now about who you know or what you have in your pocket. I can help you get a job, but it’ll cost you.” Shocked, I asked, “Where would I get that kind of money?” and walked away, disturbed.

This encounter and Dr. Muhsin’s post made me recall Jibrin, a man I knew in Gombe State. He fell prey to one of these “pay-for-a-job” schemes. Desperate, he sold his house for far below its value to pay the fee, only to end up with neither the job nor the house. Jibrin’s case is sadly not unique. Countless others have been conned by job scammers who vanish, leaving their victims penniless.

The growing prevalence of job trading in Nigeria is alarming. It undermines merit, creating a system where people secure jobs based on connections and bribes rather than qualifications. Deserving candidates are sidelined, while unqualified individuals fill critical roles. This feeds a cycle of corruption, further deepening economic inequality and breeding frustration among the youth.

What is even more troubling is the normalisation of this practice. Instead of condemning the outright sale of jobs, society seems to have accepted it as a new reality. Many young people now believe that they stand no chance in Nigeria’s job market without money or connections. This erodes confidence in a fair system, where hard work and qualifications should decide securing employment.

To tackle this issue, the media needs to lead the charge by highlighting the perils of job trading. The negative impact of this corrupt practice should be exposed through investigative journalism, public debates, and social media campaigns. However, raising awareness alone is not enough. Nigeria needs stronger recruitment regulations, where organisations are held accountable for corrupt hiring practices.

Whistleblowing must be encouraged, and safe and anonymous channels must be provided for reporting job scammers. If potential whistleblowers fear retribution or harassment, they will unlikely come forward, leaving corruption unchecked. The government must establish legal protections and incentives for those who help expose corrupt recruitment activities.

Government agencies and private firms must also ensure transparency in their hiring processes. Job openings should be advertised on official websites with detailed selection criteria. Recruitment processes should be publicised, and there should be clear communication with candidates regarding the status of their applications. This would make it more difficult for corrupt individuals to infiltrate the system and sell job offers.

Civil society organisations and advocacy groups also have a crucial role to play. They can organise awareness campaigns, engage with policymakers, and help victims of job scams seek justice. These groups can push for necessary reforms and create public forums where citizens can voice their concerns.

As individuals, we have a responsibility to reject this corrupt system. We must resist the temptation to pay for jobs, recognising that such actions perpetuate inequality and injustice. By speaking out against job trading and advocating for merit-based recruitment, we contribute to building a more just society. If job seekers refuse to participate in corrupt practices, it will weaken the power of those profiting from them.

In conclusion, job trading is a serious issue in Nigeria, eroding the values of merit and fairness. It is a dangerous practice that widens the gap between the haves and have-nots, promoting a culture of entitlement and greed. This trend needs urgent attention from all sectors of society. Nigeria can combat this corrosive practice through collective action, transparency, and strong legal frameworks and build a future where merit truly matters. It’s time for a change, and the fight starts with each of us.

Usman Muhammad Salihu is a fellow of PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship 2024. He can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The World Customs Organisation (WCO), in collaboration with the German Federation, has successfully conducted a five-day training program focused on the detection of small arms and light weapons for officers of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Police Force.

The training took place from September 16 to 20, 2024, at the Old Secretariat in Garki, Abuja, and involved 25 Customs officers along with personnel from the Nigerian Police Force and Nigerian Army.

The workshop was officially inaugurated by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) in charge of Strategy, Research, and Policy, Sulaiman Chiroma, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

ACG Chiroma stated the significance of the training in enhancing the participants’ ability to detect illegal arms, a vital component of the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) ongoing efforts to combat weapon smuggling into the country.

“This training has gone beyond what we see today. It’s not just about small arms and light weapons for Nigeria Customs Service personnel, but a national initiative, evidenced by the involvement of other agencies,” ACG Chiroma stated.

He further noted that the training is part of the broader West African Security Project (WASP), aimed at fostering collaboration among West African nations in light of shared borders and security challenges.

Chiroma praised the WCO and the German Federation for their ongoing support in organizing such vital training programs, which play a crucial role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Customs officers.

He urged participants to apply their newly acquired skills diligently.

He said, “You have learned the terminologies of arms detection, and the challenge now is to apply and expand upon what you have learned. To whom much is given, much is expected.”

Participants were encouraged to share their knowledge with colleagues in their respective commands.

“The facilitators and resource persons have provided you with invaluable insight. Now, it’s your responsibility to ensure that this knowledge doesn’t remain with you alone but is passed on to others in your field,” Chiroma added.

The training covered various critical topics, including the detection of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), understanding cultural chemicals, and mastering techniques to combat insecurity in the West African subregion.

Chiroma noted that this comprehensive approach to security training is expected to enhance efforts against illegal arms trafficking throughout the region.

By Jibril Mutalib

The naira notes live a life as colourful as the country itself. This isn’t just any currency—it wears its experiences on its sleeve, or rather, on its creases, tears, and patches. The naira isn’t just a medium of exchange; it’s a survivor with a story that shifts depending on where it finds itself in this country.

In the northern part of the country, the naira is a seasoned warrior. It has seen the depths of pockets unwashed for years and battled with rain and sun, leaving it bruised and wrinkled. Yet, the good people of the North, perhaps because of their warm hospitality, never turn their backs on the naira, no matter how worn out it appears in most cases. 

A naira note in Sokoto could look like it just took a swim in the gutter, got into a wrestling match with a goat, and lost a few limbs. But fear not! The traders in the North would still embrace it with open arms. Ah, my friend,” a northern trader might say, “kudi kudi ne”, whether it looks like a prince or a pauper. 

As long as it can buy me a cup of fura or a plate of Denkeli, it’s good enough!” If your money is rejected, then it must be very bad. Perhaps it might have undergone an abnormal surgery where you have Obafemi Awolowo appear on a #50 naira note. Lol.

But when travelling to other regions, the naira’s fortunes change quicker than you can imagine. In places like Kwara, the naira is subjected to intense scrutiny—borderline interrogation. The traders will examine it like a detective at a crime scene, looking for any sign of distress. A small tear? Rejected. A hint of dirt? Not in my shop! And don’t even think about presenting a naira note with a sellotape surgery—it might as well be a counterfeit. Lol.

So, the naira itself is living a double life in different regions of the country. In the North, it is a rugged hero, loved despite its flaws. In the South, it is an outcast, shunned for the slightest imperfection. I wonder why naira notes are treated so differently based on location. 

And so, if you ever find yourself possessing a naira note that has seen better days, do not despair. Simply tuck it away safely and wait until you return to the northern lands. There, you’ll find a warm welcome for your weary traveller. And remember, it’s not just about having money; it’s about having the right money in the right place.

In any region you find yourself, blend with how they treat the currency. When you’re in Sokoto, bring whatever naira you’ve got—no questions asked. I’m not saying they accept money in Sokoto; they do but on rare occasions. If your money is denied, it’s already very bad beyond repairs.

By Rabi Ummi Umar

Recently, I found myself in the heart of Abuja—a bustling city surrounded by the everyday hustle and bustle of urban life. The streets were alive with activities—commercial drivers calling out for passengers, pedestrians hurrying to their destinations, and the overall pace of the city reflecting the urgency of modern life.

Though an intern, I was there with some female staff writers of Economic Confidential, a tabloid published by Image Merchants Promotion (IMPR) Limited. This, however, was not for leisure or sightseeing but for an official assignment—to shoot an episode of ‘Economy on the Streets’ for the Economic Confidential’s YouTube channel. Yet, what caught my attention was something that went beyond the task at hand, revealing a deeper issue about women’s involvement in public discourse.

As a budding communicator, this ‘field trip’ was more than just an opportunity to write news stories, features, or opinion pieces. It was a chance to extend my skills beyond the written word, to engage directly with the public through a street interview—what we call a vox pop—to gauge Nigerians’ thoughts on the contentious issue of the reintroduction of fuel subsidies.

It was also a chance to experience the realities of journalism beyond the confines of a newsroom. To my surprise, I noticed that most of the respondents were men. Conversely, women seemed reluctant to lend their voices or share their opinions on the matter.

At first, I rationalised that perhaps the women were in a hurry, given that it was a weekday. I thought they might not have a few minutes to discuss Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges as more important tasks were awaiting them.

However, as the seconds, minutes, and hours ticked by and the number of women who declined to participate grew, it became clear that they did not want to discuss our nation’s challenges.

This realisation took me back to last year when I was on my Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) with News Digest, an online media platform. I was invited as a guest on WE FM (106.3), a radio station in Abuja, to discuss “Women Participation in Politics.”

During that discussion, I argued passionately that there were insufficient opportunities for women to engage in politics, and I stood firmly by my belief. Yet, a year later, my experience during the street interviews has led me to question this stance. The opportunities, it seems, are indeed out there.

On the streets, even though these women were not holding political office themselves, they had the chance to contribute to public discourse. Yet, they chose not to. This realisation troubles me because it raises questions about women’s participation in public life—whether in political offices or the organised private sector.

We frequently hear discussions about gender equality, inclusivity, roles, and the presence of women in positions of power. However, when we look deeper, we might find that men are not the primary reason women like myself remain on the periphery of public discourse or power.

As women, we may contribute to our marginalisation by refusing to seize opportunities, even when they are right before us. This brings me to a few questions we should all consider: Are women not given opportunities because men seek to dominate?

Are women holding themselves back because society expects them to remain confined to domestic roles? Are we, as women, making efforts to break free from these constraints? Or are we simply holding ourselves back?

While I leave these questions for you to ponder, I want to call on women to recognise that opportunities exist to showcase our capabilities, our capacity to deliver, and much more. We should strive to reach our goals based on what we have to offer.

But we must start somewhere, even if it’s as simple as participating in a street interview. Your voice is vital to society’s prosperity. No matter how insignificant you may think your contribution is, your participation in various aspects of society, community, and the nation at large matters more than you realise. Your voice truly matters.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a student of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin. She can be reached at rabiumar058@gmail.com.