Northern Nigeria

By Idris Hassan

A student of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Maimuna Abubakar, who beat other contestants across the world last time to emerge 3rd in an International Essay Competition organised in the United States of America, has graduated with a first-class degree in Sociology (the third person in the department’s history to graduate with a first-class), after Muminah Musa Agaka, who first broke the 38-year record. 

Maimuna Abubakar is someone I have been mentoring since my time at ABU, Zaria. She’s from Niger State and has always been eager to listen and learn. She lost her mother a few years ago, which was a difficult period for her. 

I recall the last time she asked me if there was anything she could work on, as she often does. I mentioned an essay competition in the US that I wanted her to apply for. She responded, “Sir, that’s for people like you. I don’t think I am a good fit since I know so little.” I laughed and encouraged her to submit her entry. We discussed her ideas critically, and she wrote something she sent me for proofreading. After reviewing it, she submitted her essay and won third place.

Maimuna is a writer, poet, and much more. She graduated as the best student at her level in the Department. Maimuna is also a trained teacher with over five years of experience. During school breaks, she makes dresses, loves writing, and especially enjoys reading. 

She was Amira of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) ABU, Chairperson of the NSASA Academic Committee, and Secretary of the NSASA Editorial Committee in Zaria. Maimuna aspires to be a Public Health Professional or a Social Psychologist. Given her dedication and achievements, I believe the Niger State government needs to acknowledge and reward her efforts.

Applied Worldwide is a project founded by Stephanie Wilson and Luke Hanna in the United States. It believes in a dynamic sociology in which sociological knowledge is produced and applied to enact positive changes in communities worldwide. 

Applied Worldwide organises an international essay writing competition to inspire students in the field and help foster change through a sociological lens that Applied Worldwide aims to bring. You can also try your luck.

By Dr Najeeb Maigatari

Your Excellency, I hope this letter finds you in good health. As I do not have the means through which my message could reach you, I am compelled to write this open letter to draw your attention to a menace threatening our healthcare system. That is the well-known Japa syndrome that has recently plagued our dear State.

I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and the good people of Jigawa State over the tragedy that befell the people of Majia a few weeks ago. This unforeseen event led to the loss of lives of over a hundred people and left several others with varying degrees of injuries. My heart goes out to the bereaving families of all those affected, and I pray that Allah repose the souls of the deceased and heal the injured. Amen.  

Returning to the purpose of writing this letter, Your Excellency, I would like to provide some details about how our dear state used to be. It was undoubtedly one of the states with the best healthcare systems and the highest number of practising medical doctors in Northern Nigeria. At one point, it was akin to a medical hub attracting patients and medical professionals from neighbouring states due to its subsidised healthcare, efficient service delivery, and overall welfare of health workers and patients. 

Since its creation in the early 1990s, the State has made giant strides in providing its citizens with effective and reliable healthcare services. To mention a few, various successive administrations have invested heavily in training Medical doctors and other health professionals, within and outside the country, in varying capacities to ensure effective healthcare delivery to the good people of the state. 

Similarly, Jigawa State has awarded scholarships with bond agreements to local and foreign medical students since time immemorial. It has produced medical graduates from various reputable institutions within and outside the country. In addition, it was one of the pioneer states among its peers to implement the sponsorship of medical doctors through postgraduate medical training programs to further their studies, a policy several other states would later adopt. 

Your Excellency, I can say with immense pride that our healthcare system performance score was impressive overall. It used to be one of the best in the country. The services rendered were affordable and accessible to the masses, and the welfare of patients and healthcare professionals was optimum. For instance, at some point, healthcare workers in Jigawa State were earning more than their federal counterparts. 

Unfortunately, things have now taken a turn for the worse. Our healthcare system is not only ‘underperforming’ below standard by all measures but also one of the worst in the country. We are now a shadow of our past. Jigawa State has a patient-doctor ratio of 1:35,000, far exceeding the WHO recommendation of 1:600, making it one of the states with the worst healthcare systems in Nigeria. This is indeed a troubling situation. 

Over the past few years, Jigawa State has witnessed an unprecedented mass exodus of medical doctors to other neighbouring states owing to poor welfare, overburdening workload, and inadequate health facilities in hospitals, among other factors. Regrettably, this internal Japa syndrome ravaging the state continues to overstretch our already fragile healthcare system. 

To put things into perspective, according to data obtained from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Jigawa State branch from 2013 to 2024, of the 264 doctors who reported back to the state for bonding agreements, only 40 stayed after completing their terms. This is to say that more than 220 medical doctors have left to continue their careers elsewhere because Jigawa is fast becoming a nightmare and a difficult place for medical doctors.

It is worth noting that the state produced over 500 medical doctors (both foreign and locally trained) during the same period. Still, only 214 are on the state payroll, of which only 77 are currently manning the state’s primary and secondary institutions. They are about to round up their bond agreements by the end of the year; 89 are in training as either house officers or doing national service. The state has less than ten consultants and only 12 doctors in residency training. Altogether, fewer than 100 doctors attend to a population of over 7.5 million. 

This data suggests that while the state is doing a good job at producing medical doctors (both local and foreign), its retention capacity is very poor. The State will be left with no Medical doctors in the coming years if things continue at this pace. It has to either employ doctors from neighbouring states or overwork the few that stay to death if at all there would be! Your Excellency, this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as this crisis is concerned. This menace has no end. 

As a citizen concerned about the interests of Jigawa State, I implore you to declare a state of emergency on health in Jigawa State and engage with relevant stakeholders to find a way to end this worsening Japa syndrome, which is wreaking havoc in our dear state.  

The most crucial step to addressing this issue is the urgent need for the improvement of the overall welfare of the few Medical doctors and other healthcare professionals left in the state who are already struggling with chronic fatigue due to overwhelming patient workload. This singular act will not only boost the morale of these weary Medical professionals but relieve them of their burden. Still, it will also attract others from various States to compensate for the acute shortage of Medical doctors in the state. It will also improve the effectiveness of healthcare services delivered to the people. In other words, we can go back to our glory days. 

 Various States have already employed this strategy. Your Excellency, Jigawa State can not afford to lose the doctors it invests heavily in. This could amount to a work in futility! 

In addition, the government should seriously consider domesticating the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), which will help train experts in various medical specialities in the state. This would help address the shortage of registrars and consultants in our tertiary facilities and provide an avenue for a healthy and excellent research environment in the State.

Other measures include equipping our already existing hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities and subsidising healthcare services, especially to women, young children and those suffering from such chronic debilitating conditions as sickle cell disease and chronic liver and kidney diseases. Your excellency, I believe these are some ways that could help end this menace threatening our very existence, help revitalise the State’s healthcare and improve its delivery to the citizens of Jigawa State. 

 Najeeb Maigatari is a Medical doctor. He writes from Dutse, Jigawa State, via maigatari313@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Nigeria boasts one of the largest cattle populations in Africa, ranking among the top on the continent. Over 20 million cattle are primarily concentrated in the northern regions, including states such as Adamawa, Borno, Kaduna, and Kano. 

The new Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, faces a complex and tasking job in three key ways.

First, the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development has high expectations from Nigerians. The ministry oversees and develops livestock policies, manages animal health and disease, improves breeds and genetic resources, enhances farming and production systems, supports rural livelihoods, and modernises livestock marketing and trade.

From an informal perspective, expectations will focus on how the minister will transform the lives of nomadic cattle herders from uneducated and nomadic to more settled, everyday lives while also addressing the farmer-herder conflict and the notorious practices of cattle rustling, banditry, and kidnapping for ransom, which are prevalent among some cattle herders.

Mukhtar’s second challenge lies in his background; he has spent most of his career as a technocrat at NNPC. Whether he knows it or not, he will inevitably experience the bittersweet realities of politics. Once appointed as a minister, one automatically assumes a political role. Mukhtar must navigate this transition, deciding whether to embrace full-time politics or attempt to balance his technocratic expertise with his political responsibilities. 

Furthermore, few people in Adamawa know him despite his former role as Managing Director of the Kaduna Refinery, a Petrochemical Company (KPRC). As a result, many may perceive him as elitist and aloof, particularly in an inherently people-centred position.

Mukhtar’s third challenge stems from the performances of his two predecessors from Adamawa, Mohammed Musa Bello and Prof Mamman Tahir, which many Adamawa people view as less than stellar. Their tenures have left a mixed legacy, leading to scepticism about Mukhtar’s ability to bring about something new and different. 

To distinguish himself, Mukhtar must work diligently to establish his identity and a positive track record. This task is particularly crucial, as he shares several traits with both former ministers, which could lead to assumptions about his capabilities and approach. By demonstrating effective leadership and addressing the needs of the people, Mukhtar can overcome this challenge and build a reputation that sets him apart.

With an impressive CV as a technocrat and practical knowledge of livestock management, Mukhtar’s Zaidi Farm stands out as a well-integrated enterprise that applies world-class best practices in animal husbandry. Given this background, we expect him to introduce innovative approaches to livestock management by benchmarking against countries renowned for their success in this field, such as New Zealand, Australia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Brazil, Ireland, and the United States. These nations have excelled in implementing efficient and sustainable livestock practices, utilising advanced genetic research and technology to enhance productivity. However, Mukhtar’s journey will be sweet and bitter, mainlydepending on his approach to leadership, public relationships and policy implementation. By embracing collaboration and leveraging global best practices, he has the potential to make significant strides in transforming the livestock sector.

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

By Fatima Dauda Salihu 

Health is a fundamental priority that any government should address. When citizens are healthy, the entire state benefits. However, it is disheartening when the government neglects its health sector. 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has increased its expenditure on public health over the years to enhance public health outcomes, but much still needs to be done. Public health requires ongoing efforts, and continuous improvement remains a crucial goal. The numerous and serious healthcare challenges in the country arise from poor health infrastructure, inadequate education, hygiene and sanitation issues, and extreme poverty and hunger.

The Health department plays a critical role in educating people about unforeseen infectious diseases and interventions for alleviation. 

Public health infrastructure provides communities, states and the nation as a whole with the ability to prevent diseases, promote health and respond to both ongoing and emerging challenges to health. 

Since its independence, Nigeria’s health sector has been named one of the worst in Africa. Issues include lack of coordination, fragmentation of services, scarcity of medical resources, including drugs and supplies, inadequate and decaying infrastructure, inequity in resource distribution, and access to care. 

According to the National Institute of Health, the Nigerian healthcare system is poorly developed and has suffered several setbacks, especially at the local government level. No adequate and functional surveillance systems have been created;hence, there is no tracking system to monitor the outbreak of infectious diseases, bioterrorism, chemical poisoning, etc. 

Nigeria’s hospitals and emergency services do not meet world standards. The availability of healthcare institutions and professionals is limited, while long distances travelling for healthcare are not affordable. The healthcare costs and expenditures related to the prevention and treatment of diseases are rising. 

Many primary healthcare centres across Nigeria are dilapidated, have low staff, have poor electricity, and have unclean water, and they cannot efficiently serve people in rural areas. Many pregnant women still seek the services of traditional birth attendants for delivery, and even many children in rural areas miss out on routine immunisations, which are meant to be one of the responsibilities of effective primary healthcare centres. 

Due to the poor state of the health sector, there has been a constant mass migration of doctors and health professionals out of the country. This relates to ongoing strikes and poor working conditions in healthcare delivery centres. The challenges faced by Nigeria’s healthcare system include inadequate hygiene and sanitation, insufficient financial investments, and alimited workforce and facilities. 

Establishing healthcare institutions and insurance schemes, increasing the workforce, and improving hygiene and treatment conditions can help address these challenges. Implementing policies for maternal health and healthcare reforms can lead to better health outcomes. 

Fatima Dauda Salihu wrote from Bayero University, Kano.

By Kabir Fagge Ali

As the country mourns the unfortunate and catastrophic tanker explosion that claimed over a hundred lives in Majia town, Taura local government, Jigawa State. The circumstances leading to this devastating event, and its unfolding discourse on digital space leave a bitter taste.

If past events of such nature didn’t serve as a pointer, one would have been forced to argue that the deleterious economic hardship Nigerians are currently undergoing played a significant factor in the circumstance warranting people to desperately attempt to scoop up fuel from a fallen tanker that is highly flammable. However, one cannot, in all honesty, overlook the impact of economic hardship instigated by the “so-called reform” of this administration.

While the explosion was a profound tragedy, what followed on social media turned a devastating accident into a platform for spreading hate. Netizens took to various platforms to condole, analyze, obfuscate, sympathize, and attack the dead in a typical Nigerian fashion of ethnicizing, religionizing, politicizing and regionalizing events. What should have been a space for empathy, turned into a hub for anger, with users blaming specific ethnic groups for what they called “ignorance” and “greed.” 

The horrific event became weaponized by those seeking to stoke division and deepen the fractures within Nigerian society. One @AdemolaSola38048 on X wrote, “E no go better for their dead body”, another, @Peterojueromi posted “Well, I no pity them sha, na their stupidity kill dem”.  How does a tragedy of this magnitude turn into an avenue for deriding others?

Instead of offering sympathy or proposing solutions, many used the incident as an opportunity to fuel long-standing ethnic, regional, and religious tensions. Blame was cast on entire communities for the reckless actions of a few, with harsh, derogatory terms being used to describe those who were simply trying to survive in an environment where economic opportunities are scarce.

Speaking on this incident, the former Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Skyline University, Nigeria, and an expert on hate speech and digital media, Mr. Abdulhameed Olaitan Ridwanullah noted that “social media is like a two-edged sword. It can draw the attention of relevant rescue teams and government agencies to the event and at the same time serves as an accelerant for the societal divide”.    

He warns:

“From the Nigerian experience, one shouldn’t be surprised that even in tragedy, some Nigerians cannot conceal the hate in their hearts. With social media in the hands of some of the worst among us, and the anonymity and herd mentality that comes with it, it is not surprising to read comments on social media space that shouldn’t have made it out of the thought process of whoever posted them.”

Mr. Ridwanullah added that “in the wake of national disasters like this, it is not surprising that some elements of division will weaponize such a tragedy”. He emphasized that it is important for Nigeria to look into legislation on digital media that will not only guarantee freedoms provided by digital platforms but ensure the sanity of the digital space.

“At this critical time in our digital journey, scholars should start looking beyond the usability of these platforms but understanding how their affordance reflects on our society. This kind of event and the rhetoric we saw on X underscores the importance of my research on nexus between online hate speech and offline hate crime” he surmised.

It is time for social media platforms to step up and recognize their role in monitoring and curbing the spread of hate speech. At the same time, it is also up to users to approach these platforms with responsibility and empathy. While frustrations with governance, inequality, and resource scarcity are real, targeting those who suffer the most with hateful rhetoric is not the solution.

The Jigawa tanker explosion should serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the dangers of living in a world where safety nets are often nonexistent. But more importantly, it should remind us that in moments of tragedy, we should seek to uplift each other rather than tear each other down.

As Nigeria continues to navigate complex social, ethnic, and economic challenges, we must remember that unity, empathy, and constructive dialogue are far more powerful than any message of hate.

Kabir Fagge Ali, is a Writer with PRNigeria center and write via faggekabir29@gmail.com.

By Onumoh Abdulwaheed 

Northern Nigeria is facing an increasingly severe malnutrition crisis, with recent data revealing a stark escalation in cases. UNICEF reports that Nigeria has the second-highest burden of stunted children globally, with a 32% prevalence rate among children under five. An estimated 2 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), yet only 20% receive treatment.

According to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the situation has worsened dramatically in 2024. Dr. Sanjana Tirima reports alarming increases across northern Nigeria. In Maiduguri, northeast Nigeria, MSF’s inpatient therapeutic feeding centre admitted 1,250 severely malnourished children with complications in April 2024, double the figure from April 2023. The centre has had to expand to 350 beds, far exceeding its initial 200-bed capacity.

Similar trends are seen elsewhere. In Bauchi state, MSF’s facility at Kafin Madaki Hospital saw a 188% increase in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023 in the admissions of severely malnourished children. Northwestern states like Zamfara, Kano, and Sokoto have reported increases in admissions to inpatient centres ranging from 20% to 100%.

Dr Christos Christou, MSF’s International President, previously highlighted the multiple challenges facing northern Nigeria, including “overwhelming levels of malnutrition, frequent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, lack of medical facilities and personnel, and continuous insecurity.” The crisis is further exacerbated by widespread flooding, which has devastated farmlands and displaced millions.

Despite the escalating crisis, the humanitarian response remains inadequate. In May, the United Nations and Nigerian authorities issued an urgent appeal for US$306.4 million to address nutrition needs in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. However, MSF notes this is insufficient as it doesn’t cover other affected parts of northern Nigeria.

Dr Tirima emphasises the situation’s urgency: “Everyone needs to step in to save lives and allow the children of northern Nigeria to grow free from malnutrition and its disastrous long-term, if not fatal, consequences.” She calls for immediate action to diagnose and treat malnourished children and engage in sustained, long-term initiatives to address the root causes of the crisis.

MSF and other organisations stress the need for a comprehensive and urgent response as the situation worsens. “We can’t keep repeating these catastrophic scenarios year after year,” Dr. Tirima warns. “What will it take to make everyone take notice and act?” The crisis in northern Nigeria remains a critical humanitarian concern requiring immediate and sustained attention from national and international stakeholders.

Onumoh Abdulwaheed wrote via onumohabdulwaheed@gmail.com.

By Hajara Abdullahi

Girl Child education is a major cornerstone for national development. In developing countries, Nigeria, inclusive of the girl child education, keeps experiencing setbacks due to certain constraints, which include poverty, cultural practices, insecurity, climate change, etc. In Northern Nigeria, where these challenges are more persistent, enrollment of the girl child has been minimal despite efforts by relevant stakeholders.

On October 11th, the International Day of the Girl Child was celebrated worldwide; several campaigns and gatherings were held in Nigeria to commemorate the event. The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, while addressing a conference marking the event, described Nigeria’s 25.6% out-of-school as a threat to the country, and he reiterated the need to take a specific action plan to address the menace.

According to UNICEF, Nigeria has 18 million out-of-school children, and out of these 18 million out-of-school children,60% of them are girls. This implies that we must invest, harness, and champion enrollment in girls’ education.

Education is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of national development. Investing in girls’ education empowers individuals, communities and the nation.

Education is not just a fundamental human right but a cornerstone of national development. When we invest in girls’ education, we invest in the future of our communities and nation. A girl with an education is not just an empowered individual but a catalyst for change. 

 Below are some of the essential aspects of girl-child education for national development.

Economic Growth: Educated girls significantly contribute to economic growth. Studies show that a girl’s future earnings increase substantially for every additional year of schooling. Educated women participate in the labour force, start businesses and drive economic development. In Northern Nigeria, where unemployment is rampant, empowering girls through education can break the poverty cycle and boost the economy.

Health and Well-being: Education profoundly impacts health outcomes. Educated girls make informed decisions about their health and well-being, marry later, and have healthier families. Educated girls prioritise their children’s education and health, creating a virtuous development cycle.

Social Change: Educated girls engage in civic activities, advocate for their rights and challenge societal norms. They become leaders, role models and change agents, contributing to gender equality and national progress. Inspirational figures like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Amina J. Muhammad, Professor Ruqayatu Rufai and Maryam Aloma Mukhtar exemplify how investing in girls’ education fosters social change and national development.

Sustainable Development Goals: Girls’ education is crucial to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Prioritising girls’ education helps eradicate poverty, promote gender equality and ensure sustainable development.

Therefore, we need to commit to actionable steps. We need increased investment in girls’ education, community awareness programs that challenge harmful cultural practices, and partnerships with local organisations to create safe and supportive learning environments. Every stakeholder, from government officials to community leaders, educators, and parents, has a role to play.

In conclusion, let us remember that the education of the girl child is not just a women’s issue; it is a national imperative. Together, we can build a future where every girl in Nigeria has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Hajara Abdullahi wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano. She can be contacted via phlosopherquin162@gmail.com.

By Zainab Abubakar Abba

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has been grappling with insecurity for decades. The country’s protracted conflicts, terrorist attacks, and banditry have led to widespread displacement, forcing millions to flee their homes in search of safety.

The Boko Haram insurgency, which began in 2009, has ravaged the northeastern region, particularly the Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. The terrorist group’s relentless attacks on civilians, schools, and religious institutions have resulted in unprecedented displacement. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), over 2.5 million people have been internally displaced in Nigeria, with the majority being women and children.

In addition to Boko Haram, banditry and kidnappings have become rampant in various parts of the country. The northwestern states of Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina have borne the brunt of these attacks, with thousands forced to flee their homes. The Nigerian government’s inability to curb these security threats has exacerbated the displacement crisis.

The consequences of displacement are far-reaching. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) face immense challenges, including loss of livelihoods, inadequate shelter, food insecurity, psychological trauma, and lack of access to education. Many IDPs have abandoned their farms, businesses, and livelihoods, leading to economic instability. Overcrowded and unsanitary IDP camps have become breeding grounds for diseases.

The Nigerian government has established the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to coordinate relief efforts. However, critics argue that the government’s response has been inadequate, citing insufficient funding, ineffective security measures, and a lack of durable solutions.

The international community has provided significant humanitarian aid, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of displacement. The United Nations, European Union, and other organisations have provided emergency assistance, supported peace-building initiatives, and advocated for policy change.

Nigeria’s insecurity has resulted in one of the largest displacement crises in Africa. The government, international community, and humanitarian organisations must work together to address the root causes of conflict and insecurity, provide durable solutions, and ensure accountability. The situation demands collective action to stem the tide of displacement and ensure the safety and dignity of Nigeria’s citizens.

Zainab Abubakar Abba wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Abbas Aliyu Libata 

Every individual possesses a unique talent, a natural gift that often takes time to uncover. For some, it is an early realisation, while for others, like myself, it takes a period of self-reflection and careful observation. 

My journey of discovering my unique talent has been a process of exploration filled with curiosity, self-doubt, and clarity. In the world of tailoring and fashion design, I found my calling, a profession that brings me joy andfuels my creativity.

I remember watching people around me, often amazed by how effortlessly they executed imaginative and creative tasks. Their work, whether art, music, or other forms of expression, seemed to flow naturally as if it were second nature to them. I couldn’t help but wonder: What was my talent? Was I overlooking something? This uncertainty drove me to study myself and observe how I interacted with different activities, hoping to pinpoint what made me feel most alive.

The journey was challenging. I explored various activities, searching for one that resonated with me. Gradually, I realised my attraction to tailoring and fashion design through my appreciation of fabrics and patterns and my vision of new designs. It took time to recognise this as my true talent.

The turning point came when I decided to immerse myself in design fully. While tailoring was my primary profession, designing offered something more—a unique joy. I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfilment whenever I created new designs, sketched ideas, or experimented with fabrics. The joy I experienced wasn’t just about the monetary rewards that came with the profession but also about the creative satisfaction that designing brought. I had found my talent.

According to career coach Laura Garnett, talent discovery often involves a combination of self-awareness and persistence. She explains, “Your talent lies at the intersection of what you enjoy doing and what you do well. Often, it takes time and patience to uncover it because you need to experiment with different activities to see what resonates.” My experience perfectly reflects this. The more I designed, the more I realised that this was something I was good at, bringing me immense happiness.

Research from psychologists like Dr Angela Duckworth suggests that perseverance and passion, what she calls “grit”, are vital to uncovering and developing talent. I can relate to this concept because I had to persist in my search for my unique talent, even when I doubted myself.

Looking back, I see how important it was for me to go through self-discovery. Finding my talent in tailoring and fashion design has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has given me a sense of purpose and fulfilment that I might not have found had I not taken the time to explore, reflect, and experiment. Now, every design I create reflects my joy and passion for my profession, a profession that has allowed me to express my unique talent in ways I never imagined.

I came across a friend who disclosed that he believes unique talent exists in people but has yet to discover his. 

Through this journey, I have realised that discovering one’s unique talent requires patience, observation, and a willingness to embrace the things that bring us joy, even if they aren’t immediately apparent. It was fashion design, a craft that connects my passion and creativity to something I can share with the world.

Self-observation and reflection are among the most important steps in uncovering your talent. Take time to observe how you react to different activities. Notice what excites you, where you lose track of time, or what makes you feel fulfilled. Keeping a journal to record these moments can help reveal patterns and reveal your natural abilities.

Experimenting with different fields is another critical part of the process. Your talent might be in an area you haven’t yet explored. Trying out new hobbies, engaging in unfamiliar projects, or learning a new skill can help you discover interests and strengths you didn’t know you had. Don’t limit yourself to what seems comfortable or traditional; sometimes, talent lies in unexpected places.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of seeking feedback from others. Often, those around you can provide insight into your strengths and talents that you might overlook. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for their perspectives on what you do well, where you shine, or what they think makes you unique. Their observations can offer valuable clues in your self-discovery journey.

It’s also important to follow your passion rather than just chasing money. While financial rewards are essential, true talent often lies in what brings you personal satisfaction. You may not immediately see financial gain from pursuing your passion, but the joy it brings is a crucial indicator of where your unique abilities might be found.

Be prepared to exercise patience and persistence in the process of talent discovery. It is not always an immediate realisation and can take time, especially if you are exploring new fields or refining your skills. Even when you feel stuck, continue pursuing different avenues and allow yourself the time to grow and evolve.

Learning from others is also a valuable strategy. Studying experts in areas that interest you, attending workshops, or reading books by individuals who have mastered their craft can offer insights into how to cultivate your talent. Their experiences and advice can serve as a guide for your journey.

Lastly, once you have an idea of your talent, align it with a career path. When your professional life reflects your passion, you are more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated. Combining your talent with a career can lead to personal and professional success, allowing you to channel your unique abilities into something that brings value to yourself and others.

Abbas Aliyu Libata wrote from the Mass Communication Department at Bayero University, Kano, via elabbas434@gmail.com.

By Rabi Ummi Umar,

Nature bestows unique characteristics upon creatures of all species. One distinctive feature for humans, particularly women, is menstruation, otherwise known as periods. This menstrual cycle often comes with an enormous amount of pain and discomfort. 

Hence, I get aggravated when people, particularly men, downplay or dismiss the pain associated with periods. It has become all too common nowadays, and I often wonder, “What is their thought process behind such disregard?” This disregard is part of what we have come to know as period stigma—the social, cultural, and emotional shame or embarrassment associated with menstruation.

Women typically experience menstruation for two to seven days a month. Still, they also face a range of challenges, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), sadness, menstrual pain, depression, and post-menstrual depression. For these reasons, we deserve sympathy and support.

Menstrual cramps are painful sensations that affect many individuals before and during their menstrual period. The pain typically targets the lower abdomen and lower back. Women often experience additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhoea, and more. Depending on the individual, menstrual cramps may last for at least three days or even longer.

Reports have shown that approximately 5% to 15% of individuals experience period pain so severe that it impacts their daily activities. According to Cleveland Clinic, the figure could be higher due to underreported or unreported cases.

There are instances where I have witnessed men being insensitive towards the pain women experience during their periods. Sometimes, if the situation warrants it, I share my opinion; otherwise, my best option is to watch helplessly or move on.

Women are paradoxically both fragile and incredibly strong creatures, enduring immense physical and emotional challenges every month. This never-ending cycle, which results in the loss of an appreciable amount of blood, makes it particularly hurtful when someone dismisses or undermines the experiences we go through.

A genuine suggestion is that when it is that time of the month for your partner, sister, mother, or loved one, show your support with a thoughtful gesture. Be present for them, even if you cannot fully comprehend their experience. Make them feel seen and cared for. Do your research, take the necessary steps, and understand what works best for them. It makes a bigger difference than you might think.

Recently, there was a heated discussion on X (formerly Twitter) regarding PCOS—polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries—that left me stunned. Although I cannot recall the exact comment, it disregarded the severity of the condition and painted women as unhealthy, much like what happens with periods.

One piece of advice from that social media conversation resonated with me: “Review your partner’s Twitter to gain insight into their thoughts before committing to a relationship.” I cannot stress enough how important this advice is. It underscores the need to have people in our lives who will be there for us, especially in matters such as menstruation and PCOS, which are dictated by nature.

Imagine being with someone who does not understand or invalidates your experiences. I urge women to prioritise getting to know their partners well, particularly their emotional intelligence, before committing to a relationship.

Men should also show support during menstruation. Instead of making insensitive comments, they can educate themselves.

Learn about menstrual health and its effects to be a thoughtful brother, husband, father, or friend. Offer emotional support and empathy, help with household chores and errands if needed, and encourage open conversations to end the stigma associated with periods.

By doing so and being more considerate, men can create a more comfortable and supportive environment for women. The world can be kinder to women—we deserve it!

Rabi Ummi Umar is an intern at PRNigeria and a student at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin. She can be reached via rabiumar058@gmail.com.