₦airaland Forum

BoIa:
Imagine the rate of illegal guns in the society.

Then you ask yourself how they got into the country the first place

Libya is a failed state, chad and Niger are facing a torrent of terrorism incursion. The open fire arms market make it easier to transport weapons across borders

Normally Jazzy na Baba

See wisdom abeg!!!
Compensation for work done

Hmmmm!!!!

Very good!!!

Load well!!

Sauka Lafiya

Maybe an old aircraft in dire need of maintenance?

The airline I used from Los to kotoka? Old and rusty!!

Maybe start from the Presidency

Omò!!!!!
Things de occur sha!!!

May God bless members of the Armed forces

Congratulations

Food business is good business

malali:
Attacking themselves at home.

Attacking everybody else online.

Attacking home when they move abroad.

Attack everywhere 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

Love800:
Can specify the particular trash that one will be picking?

"Green waste" what does this mean pls?

There’s and end to end waste management solution that we can benefit from once we’re willing to get dirty.
Bad Fruits and vegetables, are fed into the ecosystem and you get paid for it. Those fruits and veggies also feed another ecosystem.
It’s really beautiful.

Continue your scavenging business, but because you're more enlightened, you can partner with @cyclexafrica. A company that deals with cash for trash, and make your cool money. Also look at scaling especially in green waste

I’ll break it down like I would a kindergartner

Alright, imagine you have a piggy bank and a teacher who helps you decide how much money to save, spend, or share with friends. The teacher has some rules to keep everything fair and working well.

In Nigeria, there’s a big “money teacher” called the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). They hold meetings to decide rules for how banks should handle money. Here’s what they decided:

1. Monetary Policy Rate (MPR): This is like the price banks have to pay to borrow money. The “teacher” raised this slightly (like going from 27 candies to 27.5 candies) to help keep things balanced in the money system.
2. Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): This is the amount of money banks must keep safe and not spend. It stayed the same—half of what the bank has, like 50 out of 100 candies.

3. Liquidity Ratio (LR): This is how much money banks need to keep available for emergencies. It’s still 30 out of every 100 candies.

4. Asymmetric Corridor: This is a rule that tells banks how much extra or less they can charge around the MPR. Think of it as a range of wiggle room (+500/-100).

These rules are like traffic lights, helping to keep the money flow safe and steady for everyone.

Hello everyone,

I just stumbled upon this thread, and I must say it’s been incredibly helpful so far. It’s amazing how a thread from 2022 can still be so relevant!

My name is Alibi Omang, and I’ve been diving into email copywriting recently. After going through the discussions here, I’ve been reflecting on the potential of email copywriting, especially as we move into 2025.

I noticed that the thread on Nairaland was active from 2016 to 2020, and I’d love to hear everyone’s thoughts on whether email copywriting is still as viable and effective today as it was back then. The industry has evolved quite a bit, and I’m curious to know how trends in email marketing have shifted and what strategies are working best in the current landscape.

I’m very enthusiastic about learning and have already started writing some email samples, as suggested in this thread, to improve my skills. Along with that, I’ve written a couple of articles on LinkedIn and Medium, and I also have an active Upwork account where I’m building my portfolio. I’m eager to get any advice you all might have on building a successful career in email copywriting, particularly around leveraging AI tools to enhance my craft.

I completely understand that everyone is busy, but if anyone has a moment, I’d truly appreciate any insights or tips you can share. Thanks so much for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you


cc: Olawrites
Cc: OYENIYIJK
Cc: Meklex

lol

Hi everyone, I’ve been reading really encouraging stories on this thread. I’m an aspiring ghost/content writer, in trying to build my portfolio, I started writing articles. I’ve written about 20 articles so far on LinkedIn, Medium, and on a personal blog.
I’m trying to step it up a notch as I haven’t landed a writing gig on upwork or fiverr.
I would truly appreciate if anyone could give me a pointer from their experience on starting and scaling KDP. Thank you

The Sokoto State Government’s recent initiative to purchase 1,000 motorcycles and 500 tricycles, touted as a means of alleviating youth unemployment and addressing transportation challenges, has sparked widespread debate. While the gesture may appear noble on the surface, it reeks of shortsightedness and a lack of sustainable vision for the state’s future.

In what seems like a deliberate act to keep the populace impoverished, this initiative does little to address the root causes of unemployment, insecurity, and economic stagnation. Instead, it perpetuates a cycle of dependency and underdevelopment, leaving much to be desired from a government that should be thinking long-term.

1. Sustainability Overlooked
This initiative completely disregards sustainability. Who will be the passengers if so many youth enter the transport business at once? Flooding the streets with motorcycles and tricycles only creates a hyper-competitive environment where earnings are low and livelihoods remain precarious. Such policies do not solve unemployment—they merely shift the burden of survival onto individuals without providing a stable framework for economic growth.

2. Missed Strategic Advantage
Sokoto State is rich in natural resources and agricultural potential, but the governor has failed to leverage these advantages. Agriculture and value addition could provide far-reaching economic benefits and create jobs that go beyond subsistence-level earnings. Tools for extension farming, animal husbandry, irrigation, and even off-grid power solutions to attract industries would have been more impactful than distributing motorcycles.

3. Security Implications
The region has already been plagued by insurgency and banditry, with terror groups like Lukurawa using motorcycles as their primary mode of transportation. I wonder if the government considered the security risks of putting so many bikes into circulation. Without robust tracking and monitoring systems, this initiative risks arming criminals under the guise of empowerment.

Intercity Transportation for a Capital City?
Sokoto, as a state capital, deserves better infrastructure and transportation systems. Opting for motorcycles and tricycles instead of modern, sustainable solutions like monorails or shuttle systems reflects a lack of ambition and planning.
If empowerment was the primary goal, why not focus on agriculture or industries that could benefit the larger population? These performative “poverty alleviation” measures are not only cheap and easy but also fail to deliver meaningful change.

The governor should take a cue from Niger State Governor Bago, who is spearheading a transformative approach to agriculture. By industrializing agriculture with highly advanced machinery, Niger State is creating jobs, boosting food security, and driving economic growth. Sokoto’s leadership doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—simply replicating such successful models would be far more impactful than these poorly thought-out initiatives.

For instance:

•Industrialized Farming: Large-scale mechanization of agriculture could unlock Sokoto’s potential as a food production hub.
•Value-Addition Chains: Processing facilities for the state’s abundant gypsum, phosphate, limestone, and kaolin could create thousands of jobs.
•Irrigation Projects: Leveraging the River Sokoto for irrigated farming could ensure year-round agricultural activity.
•Off-Grid Power Solutions: Attracting industries to Sokoto would require stable power, and off-grid renewable energy solutions could provide exactly that.

Instead of repeating this tired formula of distributing motorbikes and tricycles, the government should redirect its resources toward sectors with far-reaching benefits. Here’s how Sokoto can better allocate its wealth:
Agriculture remains Sokoto’s most strategic sector. From mechanized farming to livestock development and fertilizer production, the opportunities are vast. Empowerment programs should focus on equipping farmers with tools, training, and technology to boost productivity and profitability.

Sokoto’s wealth in gypsum, limestone, and phosphate should be the foundation for local industries, creating jobs and adding value to raw materials instead of exporting them unprocessed.

Instead of motorcycles, invest in modern public transport systems like buses or monorails. These systems are safer, more sustainable, and reflective of a forward-thinking government.
Any transportation initiative must consider the security risks. Proper vetting, registration, and tracking systems should accompany such programs to ensure resources don’t end up in the wrong hands.

Sokoto State deserves better than this performative approach to governance. The governor’s initiative, while seemingly well-intentioned, reflects a lack of foresight and ambition. Instead of empowering its people, the state risks perpetuating cycles of poverty, insecurity, and underdevelopment.

Mr. Governor, can’t you stop doing this? Why not embrace the bold and visionary strategies already being implemented by leaders like Governor Bago in Niger State? Your people deserve policies that harness Sokoto’s vast resources, create sustainable jobs, and lay the foundation for long-term growth.

The time has come to move past these cheap and easy fixes. Sokoto’s future demands better—and its people are watching.

In contemporary discussions about spirituality, a disturbing theme continues to emerge: the dangerous intersection between ritualistic practices and human exploitation. Ritual killings, human sacrifice, and occult practices promising power and material wealth have become more rampant in some regions, with devastating consequences. These practices blur the lines between true spiritual enlightenment and a decaying societal foundation, posing not only a moral crisis but a deeply spiritual one as well. The growing prevalence of these exploitative rituals, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals, calls for urgent intervention—both spiritual and societal.
As this conversation gains momentum, a poignant question arises: How do we protect the sanctity of life while engaging with spiritual realms that seem to promise enlightenment and empowerment? To answer this, we must first understand the deeper spiritual rules that govern our actions and discern the dangerous paths that lead away from truth.
Spirituality is often viewed as a quest for enlightenment, but as many spiritual thinkers have noted, understanding the rules that govern both the physical and spiritual realms is crucial for navigating this journey. Without proper discernment, we risk being led astray by manipulative forces, masquerading as sources of light and truth. Recently, I came across a tweet from Rinu on Twitter that poignantly asked, "How do money rituals work?" She humorously questioned whether money from such rituals would appear as physical cash in your home or show up in your bank account as credit alerts. While it was an insightful reflection on the absurdity of these practices, it also pointed to a deeper issue of spiritual misunderstanding.
A doctor on Twitter, whom I admire greatly, @maxvayshia, explained the matter succinctly. He pointed out that there really isn’t any separation between this world and the astral world. The only difference lies in the vibrational frequencies between both realms. According to spiritual laws, nothing in the physical realm exists without its counterpart in the spiritual or inner world. All inventions, for example, existed first in the spirit realm before being manifested in the physical world. In this sense, when people engage in so-called "money rituals," they are tapping into the "power center" of the astral world, where everything has its replica. By lowering the vibrational frequency of spiritual materials or entities, those things manifest in the physical realm.
However, this is where the danger lies: In order to summon wealth or success from the spirit world, many rituals involve making dangerous demands, often involving human life. These demands come with grave consequences. Every action in the spiritual world has consequences in the physical world.
One of the most chilling aspects of these spiritual practices is the increasing prevalence of ritual killings and human sacrifice. Rituals that promise power, wealth, or divine favor are often tied to the belief that sacrificing a human life—especially that of a child or vulnerable individual—will unlock access to these material blessings. Tragically, these dark practices are not only about spiritual manipulation but also involve the exploitation and suffering of innocent people.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), human trafficking remains one of the most pervasive global crimes, with children making up nearly 30% of trafficking victims. Some of this trafficking is for ritualistic purposes, including organ trafficking and human sacrifice. In regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, these practices are sometimes rooted in ancient beliefs that sacrificing a human will bring material benefits, such as wealth or protection from evil forces.
In Nigeria, for instance, ritual killings have become disturbingly common. A 2018 report by the Nigerian Senate revealed that hundreds of ritual killings occur annually, with victims often being children or young adults. These individuals are often murdered for their body parts, which are sold to wealthy individuals seeking spiritual empowerment. One notorious case involved the abduction and murder of a 12-year-old child in Benue State, whose body parts were sold for around $15,000. This incident is just one example of how ritual killings have become a normalized, albeit horrific, practice, underscoring the urgent need for both legal reform and spiritual renewal.
Ritual killings and human sacrifice are not isolated acts of violence but rather a reflection of a broader spiritual manipulation. In many regions, these practices are seen as legitimate ways to attain wealth, power, or spiritual protection. The perpetrators often justify their actions, believing they are following sacred guidelines or invoking divine favor. However, these beliefs are based on twisted interpretations of spiritual laws, aimed at exploiting vulnerable individuals for material gain.
Furthermore, widespread poverty and lack of education make vulnerable populations more susceptible to manipulation. In some cases, people may be coerced into participating in rituals, believing they are engaging in legitimate spiritual practices. Children, especially, are targeted for their perceived purity and power in the spiritual realm. UNICEF reports that children's organs are increasingly sought after in underground trafficking networks, with children being abducted from schools, orphanages, or even their homes for ritualistic purposes.
In Kenya, ritualistic killings have become so frequent that they are no longer shocking to some communities. A 2017 report by the Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights revealed the horrifying truth: children are often abducted and sacrificed to meet the demand for ritualistic powers. These acts, driven by greed and superstition, contribute to a larger cycle of exploitation that continues to thrive due to a lack of effective intervention and societal reform.
Another element central to many occult rituals is music. In traditional African spirituality, as well as in biblical rituals, music is believed to have the power to open portals to the spiritual world. Whether it is the ogène (a traditional African instrument) or the playing of harps in the Bible, music has long been used to invite spirits—both benevolent and malevolent—into the physical realm.
The Bible is replete with references to the role of music in spiritual encounters. When David played his harp for King Saul, it was said to soothe the king’s troubled soul (1 Samuel 16:23). Similarly, in ancient Israel, musical instruments were employed during worship to invoke God’s presence (2 Chronicles 5:13). However, music can also be used for darker purposes. In occult rituals, music is often used to summon evil spirits, opening doors to destructive forces that wreak havoc on individuals and communities.
Given the power of music to influence spiritual realms, discernment becomes crucial when engaging in any ritual involving music. Music can be used to either elevate our spirits and draw us closer to divine truth, or it can be manipulated to summon malevolent forces that lead us into darkness.
In the face of these alarming practices, there is an urgent need for spiritual discernment. The Bible reminds us in Daniel 11:32b, "But the people that do know their God shall be strong and do exploits." True spiritual strength comes from a deep, personal relationship with God—not from engaging with manipulative forces masquerading as spiritual enlightenment. This relationship is built on knowing God intimately and understanding His laws, which guide us to love others, honor life, and live in peace.
In times of spiritual conflict, it is this deep connection to divine truth that empowers us to resist the forces of darkness and engage in righteous actions. The darkness we see in ritual killings and exploitation is not just a reflection of human depravity; it is a spiritual crisis that stems from a lack of true understanding of God’s laws. Without this understanding, people are more vulnerable to being manipulated by forces that seek to exploit the weak and the desperate.
The growing prevalence of ritual killings and human sacrifice is not only a sign of societal decay but also a reflection of spiritual erosion. These practices reflect a disconnection from the values of love, justice, and life that should guide our spiritual and moral compass. The solution is not just legal reform; it is a spiritual renewal that reestablishes the sacredness of life and the importance of spiritual discernment.
The answer lies in knowing God—not just theoretically, but in a life-changing way that transforms our hearts and minds. When we reconnect with divine truth and embrace the principles of life, justice, and compassion, we can begin to heal our communities and societies. True spiritual empowerment doesn’t come from exploiting others; it comes from aligning ourselves with divine laws that promote peace, prosperity, and healing.
By grounding our practices in spiritual truth and ethical principles, we can work together to build a society that values life, rejects exploitation, and honors the divine laws that sustain true peace and prosperity. In this way, we can overcome the darkness of ritual exploitation and bring about real, lasting change.

Social media recently erupted with reports of minors facing court charges following violent ‘end bad governance’ protests across Northern Nigerian states like Kano and Kaduna, where incidents of looting, property destruction, and significant damage to infrastructure reached alarming levels. What has particularly raised concern, however, was the display of foreign flags — a symbol of protest that some have interpreted as a call for regime change. To fully understand how these young individuals have become entangled in such politically charged events, it’s essential to explore the Almajiri system in Northern Nigeria — a system historically aimed at religious education but now marred by exploitation.

Rooted in the Arabic word “Al-Muhajeer,” meaning “the one who travels to seek knowledge,” the Almajiri system was once a respected educational structure in Northern Nigeria, offering boys the opportunity to travel and receive Islamic teachings under a Mallam, or Islamic scholar. However, over time, this noble system has degraded, devolving into a cycle of neglect and manipulation, often facilitated by the very society that once valued it.

Initially, the Almajiri framework aimed to instill young boys with a comprehensive religious education. Today, it is frequently used as a way for impoverished families to “declutter” their households. For instance, a struggling farmer with a large family and limited space often faces difficult choices. In his small home, he may decide to send his young sons away as Almajiris, Soon after arrival, the boys begin their life of “bara” (begging), with little time or energy left for religious study. After all, his daughters may soon marry and move out. So, after a successful harvest, all he thinks about is marrying another wife, and the cycle continues.

Unfortunately, the Almajiri system has become a reservoir of young, disenfranchised boys who are easily manipulated by the political elite. Rather than fulfilling its educational intent, this framework has become a source of political gain, with children registered as adults to serve as potential voters. The recent case of minors who could reportedly be charged with treason after the protests in Northern states highlights this. Through falsification of documents, some political elites capitalize on these children’s lack of official identification, enrolling them as eligible voters. In this way, these boys are stripped of their agency, reduced to mere pawns in a political game. This fraudulent manipulation, if left unaddressed, continues a cycle that deprives these young individuals of any legitimate opportunity for education or self-improvement.
The cycle of poverty and lack of educational opportunity in Northern Nigeria fuels the Almajiri system’s persistence. Northern Nigeria has some of the highest poverty rates in the country, with data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showing that poverty levels in states like Sokoto and Zamfara exceed 80%. These economic hardships create difficult decisions for many families, who, faced with few resources, often resort to sending their sons into the Almajiri system as a way of managing household expenses.
Moreover, Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children globally, with UNICEF estimating that approximately 10 million Nigerian children are not attending school, and a significant proportion are Almajiri boys in the North. Rather than receiving a formal education, these children are caught in a system that fails to prepare them for productive futures, further entrenching cycles of poverty and dependence.
Beyond political manipulation, Almajiri boys face many dangers, from physical sexual and emotional abuse to becoming potential targets for human trafficking or recruitment by criminal groups. Isolated from their families and society, they are susceptible to exploitation, with little recourse for help. The day-to-day hardships of an Almajiri boy rarely lead to a return to formal education; instead, many transition to menial jobs such as mai bola (local trash collectors), mai ruwa (water carriers), mobile dress menders, cobblers, or truck drivers. The cycle of poverty, therefore, continues with little hope for escape. I was having a conversation with one ‘mai bola’ the other day, he spoke of his annual return home for the planting season, where he expands his family by welcoming new children with joy, this guy has 3 wives and 8 children, and was boasting that he’ll add another very soon.
Northern Nigeria faces a stark disparity between a wealthy upper class and a severely impoverished lower class. Despite having the longest tenure in leadership positions and access to vast resources, the elite’s priorities often fall on symbolic actions, such as funding large-scale weddings for hundreds of couples. Such measures, however, fail to address the systemic issues of poverty and lack of access to quality education.

The challenge of introducing educational and family planning programs to Northern communities is further complicated by deep-rooted cultural beliefs. In one experience, during an NGO-led sensitization campaign at an IDP camp in Durumi 2, men disrupted the session, accusing we the organizers of promoting family planning, which they perceived as a threat to their traditional values. This cultural resistance underlines the difficulty of implementing meaningful reforms and illustrates the entrenched mindset that sustains the Almajiri system as it stands today.
Any meaningful reform of the Almajiri system requires more than surface-level policy changes. It demands a holistic approach that addresses both education and economic opportunity. Poverty alleviation measures, expanded access to education, and robust family welfare systems are necessary steps in ensuring families no longer feel pressured to send their children away. Addressing this issue could mitigate the underlying factors that sustain cycles of poverty and exploitation.
Away from the sensationalism and courtroom theatrics lies a harsher reality that calls for urgent attention. If it’s proven that any of the accused orchestrated these acts of violence and the young people involved are found guilty, then, unfortunately, the law must take its course. This incident, tragic as it may be, should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria and the world to see the acute disparities and the severe socio-economic challenges faced in Northern Nigeria. It is not enough to address symptoms — true reform must dig deep to uproot the social, political, and economic issues that entrench systems like the Almajiri. Only with transparent efforts and a commitment to lasting change can the Almajiri system fulfill its original mission: to educate and uplift, not abandon or exploit.

Ghana is currently grappling with a significant agricultural crisis, largely due to illegal mining activities known as “galamsey,” which have introduced toxic heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury into the soil and water, affecting the safety and quality of its agricultural produce. This situation threatens the reputation and future of Ghana’s agricultural exports, notably cocoa, which serves as a vital component of the country’s economy.

For Nigeria, Ghana’s setbacks present potential market openings, especially in cocoa and soybean exports. However, Nigeria also faces its own challenges — such as insecurity and governance issues — that could limit its ability to capitalize fully on this opportunity. In this context, it is critical for both countries to assess the long-term implications of these dynamics on regional food security, economic stability, and sustainable development.
The Ghanaian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports severe contamination in agricultural areas due to illegal mining, with toxic residues impacting major agricultural products such as cocoa. Not only does this pose a health risk to consumers, but it also threatens Ghana’s trade relationships with countries that uphold strict Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards, including the EU and U.S. Ghanaian authorities must urgently address this issue, not only to secure the health of their citizens and environment but also to safeguard the nation’s agricultural export sector.

Opportunities for Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector Nigeria is well-positioned to step in as an alternative supplier in the global agricultural market, especially for cocoa and soybeans:

1. Cocoa Exports: Nigeria ranks as one of the largest cocoa producers globally. If Ghana’s output continues to be compromised by environmental degradation, Nigeria could expand its cocoa market share by focusing on high-quality standards that meet the rigorous requirements of the EU and U.S. Additionally, ensuring a high level of traceability and sustainability in Nigeria’s cocoa supply chain would appeal to buyers seeking reliable, eco-conscious suppliers. Such a move could establish Nigeria as a preferred source of cocoa, allowing it to tap into market gaps left by Ghana.

2. Soybean Exports: Nigeria’s soybean exports in 2022 demonstrated steady growth, especially among buyers interested in non-GMO products and high-protein content. For Nigeria to fully capitalize on this, the country must adhere to international quality specifications and minimize impurities to gain higher market value. In addition to securing an agricultural alternative, Nigeria can diversify its exports to include products like soybeans that have become more valuable in the global market.

Despite these promising opportunities, Nigeria faces several internal challenges that may inhibit its ability to fully capitalize on Ghana’s current agricultural issues:

1. Insecurity: Nigeria’s agricultural sector is hindered by insecurity, including conflicts in major agricultural regions. This threatens productivity, increases supply chain disruption, and discourages investment. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warns that such conflicts could lead to food insecurity in affected areas. Addressing these security issues is essential if Nigeria hopes to meet increased demand for its agricultural exports effectively.

2. Governance and Integrity Issues: Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Nigeria low, with widespread corruption hampering economic progress and discouraging foreign direct investment. To successfully capture a more significant share of the global market, Nigeria’s agricultural sector needs to promote integrity and reliability at all levels of the supply chain. Strengthening governance structures can attract investors and build trust in Nigeria’s capacity to deliver quality agricultural products consistently.

Given the gravity of the situation, Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities, including the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) and the Ghanaian Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), must take decisive steps:

1. For Nigerian Authorities: A comprehensive approach to enhancing agricultural exports, including policy reforms for security, is vital. Additionally, implementing systems to monitor soil and crop quality, similar to the standards set by the EU’s SPS, can make Nigerian products more competitive and appealing to international buyers.

2. For Ghanaian Authorities: Immediate intervention is needed to address the illegal mining activities that are damaging Ghana’s agricultural sector. Strengthening policies that protect the environment from harmful industrial activities would not only safeguard public health but also restore confidence in Ghana’s agricultural exports.

3. For Both Countries’ Private Sectors: Private enterprises can play a crucial role in advocating for sustainable practices and accountability. Moreover, collaboration between agricultural exporters and quality assurance bodies, such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), can help ensure that export quality aligns with international standards.

Nigeria stands to benefit from Ghana’s current agricultural crisis. However, this is contingent upon addressing Nigeria’s own internal challenges — namely, insecurity and governance. By investing in security, transparency, and sustainable agricultural practices, Nigeria can position itself as a leading agricultural exporter in West Africa, filling the void in global markets created by Ghana’s setbacks. For Ghana, urgent intervention is needed to control environmental degradation, protect agricultural production, and rebuild its reputation in the international market. Both nations must recognize the long-term impacts of these challenges and act decisively to secure a more prosperous and sustainable future.

By addressing these immediate issues, both Nigeria and Ghana can unlock greater economic potential while fostering a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector for the region.

For a country highly reliant on fuel, it’s an absolute shame that there hasn’t been a conclusive solution of fuel scarcity in Nigeria

Absolutely nothing huh

Thhhh

OMG!!!😟😟😟😟

NIGERIA

I had a rather interesting ride yesterday that left me pondering the state of sports in Nigeria. My long-time client had some deliveries to make, so we headed off to GIG Logistics in Garki to send her parcels, presumably abroad. But what caught my attention was something far more surprising than the errands we were running — she was engrossed in watching the Olympics on her mobile phone. I was bewildered, not because she was watching sports, but because of my own disinterest. Yet here she was, deeply invested, and she was a woman — challenging the stereotype that women aren’t interested in sports.

As our conversation unfolded, I discovered that she was once a footballer, her promising career cut short by a ghastly accident. Her passion for sports hadn’t waned, and I hadn’t seen anyone so excited about football and athletics in a long time. This naturally led us to discuss the sad state of grassroots football in Nigeria, a country brimming with untapped talent but glaringly absent from the podiums of major sporting events.

It’s an absolute shame that Nigeria, a nation with a population exceeding 200 million, has yet to secure a single gold medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Take the case of Favour Ofili, a sprinter who was a beacon of hope for the country, yet ended up in the middle of a controversy that many believe was an internal punishment or, worse, an outright oversight. Such incidents contribute to a growing disillusionment with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and other sports governing bodies. How can a country so rich in talent be so poor in management?

Our conversation took another turn as we lamented the underutilization of national stadiums. Take the colossal Abuja National Stadium, for example. Instead of being a bustling hub of athletic activity, it stands mostly idle, its potential wasted. On any given Saturday, Abuja residents would rather walk the stretch from Games Village to Area 1 than attend events at the stadium. This neglect is not only a waste of infrastructure but also a missed opportunity to foster a sports culture that could inspire the next generation of athletes.
The recent Olympic Games highlighted just how far behind Nigeria has fallen. Countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda have embraced sports as a source of national pride and glory. They invest in their athletes, starting from grassroots development all the way to the global stage. In contrast, Nigeria’s sports sector is mired in mismanagement and lack of vision. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, we saw nations with 14-year-old athletes winning gold medals. Such achievements are the result of years of consistent training and a robust sports development system, something Nigeria sorely lacks.

The current Minister of Sports has been quick to “clarify facts,” but what the public needs is action. When will we see a comprehensive response to incidents like the one involving Ofili? When will there be a real push to revitalize grassroots sports and bring back the glory days of Nigerian athletics? These are questions that need urgent answers if we are to restore faith in the NFF, the LOC, and the entire sports apparatus in Nigeria.

conclusively, sports has the potential to unite a nation and bring international acclaim.
Countries that recognize this are reaping the rewards. Nigeria, the so-called “Giant of Africa,” must wake up to this reality. It’s time to invest in our athletes, our infrastructure, and our sports culture to reclaim our place on the world stage. Until then, we remain a giant only in name, not in achievements.

“Oh my God, you’re so kind!”Those were the words that spilled out of her mouth, filled with gratitude and surprise. It was the second time within a month that I had been praised for simply being "humane."

While driving towards Lokogoma, my rider politely asked if I could make a quick stop by the roadside at Galadimawa, so she could buy roasted corn and pear. I gladly agreed, not thinking much of it. But as we approached her gate, she turned to me and said, “You’re so patient. Others might have stopped reluctantly, or not at all.” Her words echoed those of another passenger who had also praised my kindness, even going so far as to tip me.

As much as I found their reactions surprising, it made me reflect on how much genuine kindness and human connection have faded in our society. These encounters highlighted the erosion of basic humanity in our interactions with each other. This is not to pass judgment or reach a definitive conclusion, but it does suggest a troubling trend across various aspects of life—we've developed a subtle indifference toward each other.

As an e-hailing driver, I've encountered a wide range of experiences—from passengers faking transfers to extremely unruly behavior, especially from some women. It's easy to become jaded and start to assume the worst in people, projecting negative experiences onto others. But that mindset is both unfair and uncalled for. There are still many kind and respectful people out there. As long as it's safe, it doesn't hurt to take a small detour or be a bit more accommodating during a trip.

I often say that driving on e-hailing platforms is like working in human resources. One minute, you’re a therapist, the next a DJ, a priest, a counselor, or simply a silent observer, depending on the situation. Striking up deep, random conversations with passengers you’ll likely never see again can be surprisingly therapeutic. Once you look past the idea of e-hailing as a "demeaning" job and start seeing it as an opportunity to connect with people and enjoy what you do, the experience becomes much more fulfilling.

I've had countless memorable moments on the road, and the common thread in all of them is simple: a sprinkle of kindness here and there can go a long way in restoring faith in humanity. It doesn’t take much—just a little patience, understanding, and a willingness to go the extra mile. And in a world that often feels disconnected, those small acts of kindness can make all the difference.

Hmmmm!!!
Israel has been shouting about this for the longest time

Congratulations to the New Corps Members on Your Passing Out Parade!

Dear distinguished Corps Members,

Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone in your journey! Your Passing Out Parade marks the end of an impactful chapter and the beginning of a promising future. Your resilience, dedication, and service to the nation over the past year are truly commendable. As you step into the next phase of your lives, it’s crucial to continue building on the skills and experiences you’ve gained.

Embracing Soft Skills in Economic Hardship

In today’s rapidly changing world, soft skills are becoming increasingly valuable. Skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are essential for navigating the complexities of modern workplaces. As economic challenges persist, these skills can distinguish you in the job market and enable you to adapt to various roles and industries.

Leveraging Online Learning Platforms

To hone these soft skills and stay competitive, consider leveraging online learning platforms. Resources like YAPPI, ALX , Coursera, and Udemy offer a plethora of courses tailored to developing both soft and hard skills. These platforms provide flexible learning options that allow you to gain new qualifications, often from the comfort of your home.

YAPPI focuses on practical skills and employability, helping you transition smoothly into the workforce.
ALX offers immersive programs designed to develop leadership and technical skills.
Coursera provides courses from top universities and companies worldwide, offering certificates that enhance your resume.
Udemy has a vast library of courses on a wide range of topics, including personal development and professional skills.

Exploring Opportunities in Farming

Additionally, consider exploring the agricultural sector. Farming is not just about traditional methods anymore; it's evolving with technology. Agri-tech is revolutionizing the way we approach farming, making it more efficient and profitable. Integrating technology into farming can lead to innovative practices such as precision agriculture, automated machinery, and sustainable farming techniques.

There’s immense potential in the agricultural sector, and it’s a viable avenue to consider amidst economic uncertainties. With the right skills and a bit of creativity, you can turn farming into a lucrative venture. The fusion of technology and farming is a beautiful synergy, and there’s good money to be made here.

The Future is Yours

As you embark on this new journey, remember that the future is in your hands. Equip yourself with the necessary skills, remain adaptable, and continue to seek opportunities for growth. The world is full of possibilities, and with determination and the right mindset, you can achieve great things.

Congratulations once again on your Passing Out Parade. We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and excited to see the incredible contributions you will make to society.

Best wishes for a bright and successful future!
Image:
Circa Okpara Square,
October 2013