It’s been going on for years, maybe three, maybe more or less. Everybody expects the journey to culminate at the usual final bus stop. And true to peoples’ expectations it looks like the normal thing will definitely happen. The invitation cards are out, the wedding trousseau complete. She has made trips and trips to the fashion designers for fittings and more fittings. The cows have been paid for and a five-tiered cake ordered.

His people have chosen their own ‘aso-ebi’ and so have the bride-to-be’s friends and family. The reception take-away plates are ready and all members of the bridal train are set for rehearsal.

Then comes the morning of the D-Day! The day breaks like any other day. Everybody is up at dawn, attending to the final details. Some are supervising the caterers, the bride’s brothers and uncles set up the canopies and arrange for the drinks to be iced. As early as eight o’ clock, the sun is out. The bride’s friends lay out her beautiful dress and accessories, arguing over the appropriate colour of lipstick she should wear. The make-up artist arrives with her million-naira make-up suitcases. The photographers have two cameras each hung around their necks.

More than an hour later, the bride steps out, into the gleaming white Mercedes Benz G-Wagon decorated for the occasion. It rolls out of her parents’ compound and heads for the church. She is leaving her home of over 28 years for the last time as a spinster. When she comes back, she’ll be wearing a wedding band that binds her to her heartthrob. Behind her veil, she smiles and heaves a sigh of relief.

At last, the search is over. She has a man to call her own now and is set to keep her marriage vows no matter the size or shade of thorns involved.

Smiling for the cameras (both photo and video), the bride-to-be majestically walks into the church. She’s totally breathtaking as she should be. She looks around for her groom but was told he’s yet to appear. Well, and he was the one who repeatedly told her not to be late or else he’ll marry one of the choirgirls. It was a joke they’d both laughed at.

The time is already a quarter after 10 o’ clock – the appointed time for the ceremony to take off. Poor bride is trying to hide her fear. Her father gets up to inquire while the chief bridesmaid fans her friend. The officiating ministers too are getting impatient and complaining about the young men of today.

11 o’ clock! The groom is yet to surface. Throwing convention to the winds, the bride lifts her veil and starts pacing up and down, her lips moving in prayer. God, where could he be? Maybe he has a huge hangover from yesterday’s bachelor’s eve party. Maybe their car broke down. God, don’t let him be ill. May be his suit or shirt got burnt when it was being ironed.

11:30! The family and friends of the next couple who are getting married at noon begin to arrive. The emissary sent to the groom’s house returns, wearing a long sad face. He calls the bride’s father aside and tells him the bad news. The groom has left town under the pretext of going to gas up the car for the day’s activities. The old man’s face said it all. The bride slumped to the ground in all her sad glory.

Half the church erupts in tears in tears, cursing the groom. The end of a dream! There won’t be any marriage vows now. No till death do us part. Poor girl’s dream of living happily ever after with her prince is shattered – maybe forever. The wedding is off!

It’s a tear-inducing sad movie. It has happened to many women – may be more like it will still occur. Why do grooms bail out at the last minutes? Is it callousness or cowardice?

Is it juju or mental problem? According to a friend and medical doctor, parents’ pressure sometimes causes this heart-breaking saga.

“Some parents are high handed and  overbearing, especially where they are rich. They are used to getting what they want and descend as low as using their own sons as pawns or business strategy.

A friend of mine did the disappearing act a few years ago. His father wanted him to marry a business associate’s daughter – a kind of business merger. The marriage would have brought huge financial gains to my friend’s father but he already had a girl he wanted to marry. The girl he loved was in America and he too is an American citizen.  When his father told him his plans, he protested. The old man started blackmailing him. Knowing he couldn’t win otherwise, Kay went on with the arrangement. He couldn’t tell the girl involved because she seemed to be in love with him and she would have messed up Kay’s carefully laid out plans . So, while his bachelor’s eve party was on, he took the midnight flight out to New York. It’s sad for the girl but what’s the point of living with a wife you don’t want, least of all love?

But many women think men who do it are callous. And I agree too. If a man has no intention of coming to say his own part of ‘I do’ then he should be brave enough to tell the girl instead of leading her on. Why let a girl order a bridal dress, cake and the lot when you have no intention of showing up on the wedding day? It’s pure meanness. A man who can do that is capable of killing. Some even go to the extent of abandoning a pregnant bride! Can you imagine the pain? Such men should have their necks tied to a moving ‘molue’ and dragged through the busiest road, so he can die slowly. No other punishment is good enough.

And I can assure you that many women won’t let a man who abandons them on their wedding day go scot-free. I can’t imagine why any woman should feel anything but hatred for a man who humiliates her in such a way, in front of family and friends and even ex-boyfriends. Gosh, it’s the presence of ex-boyfriends at such scenes that is the worst. Imagine, the guy you’ve spurned and told off, having the last stupid laugh!

Oh, I’m sure the men will come up with different reasons why they do it. Let them. I can come up with a long list of horrible consequences of such reasons. A man who is not man enough to show up on his wedding day is an animal. He deserves nothing but painful, slow death. He should be made to pay bit by bit, until he begs for mercy. Even then, does he deserve mercy? What would you do to a man who abandons you on your wedding day?

As another August 12 quietly slipped by almost a week ago, it is worth asking: who remembered Sam Okwaraji? For most, the date holds no particular significance, but for Nigerian football enthusiasts, it marks a poignant moment in the nation’s sporting history, a day that should never be forgotten. On this date in 1989, Sam Okwaraji, a promising young footballer, collapsed on the pitch during a World Cup qualifier match against Angola at the National Stadium in Lagos and tragically lost his life. His untimely death left a void not just in Nigerian football but in the hearts of millions who had witnessed the rise of a true patriot and sportsman.

Sam Okwaraji was more than just a footballer; he was a symbol of dedication and selflessness. Born in Orlu, Imo State, on May 19, 1964, Okwaraji’s passion for football was evident from a young age. His talent on the pitch was matched by his intellect off it, Okwaraji was a law graduate, having earned his degree in Europe while simultaneously pursuing his football career. His commitment to the national team was unparalleled, often sacrificing his personal ambitions for the greater good of Nigerian football.

On that fateful day in August 1989, Okwaraji played his heart out for his country, just as he always did. With the Super Eagles locked in a fierce battle with Angola, Okwaraji collapsed in the 77th minute. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after, with reports indicating that he had suffered from congestive heart failure. The shocking news reverberated across Nigeria, plunging the nation into mourning. Okwaraji was only 25 years old, yet his legacy was already cemented.

However, as the years have passed, it seems that the memory of Sam Okwaraji has begun to fade. Unlike other football legends who are celebrated annually, Okwaraji’s name is often overlooked, his contributions to Nigerian football slowly slipping into obscurity. There are no grand memorials, no national tributes, only a few die-hard fans and sports historians continue to honor his memory. The question remains: why has Nigeria forgotten Sam Okwaraji?

Part of the answer lies in the nature of collective memory. In a country where political and economic challenges dominate the national discourse, the achievements and sacrifices of sportsmen and women often take a backseat. But Okwaraji’s story is one of resilience, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, qualities that should be celebrated and emulated by future generations.

It is high time that Nigeria renews its commitment to preserving the memory of Sam Okwaraji. His name should be etched in the annals of Nigerian history alongside the greats who have shaped the nation’s identity. August 12 should not be just another day on the calendar; it should be a day of reflection, a day to honor a hero who gave his life for his country. The government, football authorities, and the public at large should come together to ensure that Okwaraji’s legacy lives on.

Perhaps the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) could introduce an annual Sam Okwaraji memorial match, with proceeds going towards supporting young talents who embody his spirit. Schools could include lessons about his life and career in their curricula, teaching students about the values of dedication and patriotism. Media outlets could run features and documentaries that highlight his contributions to Nigerian football, ensuring that his story is told and retold for generations to come.

In remembering Sam Okwaraji, we are not just paying tribute to a fallen hero; we are also reaffirming our commitment to the ideals he stood for. As we move forward, let us ensure that August 12 becomes a day of national significance, a day when Nigerians of all ages come together to honor the legacy of a true patriot.

At this juncture, it is germane to opine that in a nation as culturally rich and historically significant as Nigeria, one might expect its heroes to be revered, their legacies celebrated, and their contributions etched permanently into the collective memory. Yet, time and again, Nigeria has shown a troubling tendency to forget those who have served and sacrificed for the country, leaving their stories to fade into obscurity.

Take the case of Rashidi Yekini for instance, who was Nigeria’s all-time leading goal scorer and the man behind the country’s first-ever World Cup goal in 1994, is another example of this national amnesia. Despite his remarkable achievements on the international stage, Yekini’s later years were marked by illness and isolation. When he passed away in 2012, there was an outpouring of grief, but the promise to honor his legacy has largely gone unfulfilled. His death was a poignant reminder of how quickly Nigeria’s sports heroes are forgotten once they leave the spotlight.

So, as August 12 has come and gone, the question lingers: who remembered Sam Okwaraji? If the answer is not enough of us, then perhaps it is time we start.

THE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration likes to psychologically anesthetize Nigerians who are grieving from the hurt of its economic policies (petrol price spike, electricity tariff hike, devaluation of the naira, etc.) by saying Nigerians are only undergoing transitory pains in the service of a forthcoming permanent prosperity.

I have repeatedly called this an intentional lie. I have done so from the benefit of my knowledge of the outcomes of such policies in other countries, including in Nigeria from 1986 to 1993 when Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida implemented a Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) as dictated by the World Bank and the IMF, which is similar to Tinubu’s “reforms.”

I have also made recurrent references in the past to countries that have made progress precisely because they defied the economic template Tinubu is implementing now. I highlight the case of Malaysia in the late 1990s.

Let’s start with SAP in Nigeria. In 1986, self-described military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida was persuaded by the IMF and the World Bank to “restructure and diversify” Nigeria’s economy.

The restructuring and diversification led to the removal of subsidies on petrol (all past regimes called petrol price spikes “subsidy removal”), devaluation of the naira (now it’s known by the fancy term “floating of the naira”), deregulation (that is, allowing market forces to regulate the economy while the government takes the back seat), privatization (i.e., selling off of Nigeria’s national patrimony to a few moneybags), etc.

The immediate aftereffect of this IMF-endorsed “restructuring” (Tinubu calls his “reform”) of the economy was a never-before-seen inflationary conflagration, which eroded the purchasing power of the average Nigerian. It produced widespread hardship similar to what Nigerians are going through at this moment.

Petrol price spike and privatization led to job losses and a deepening of the unemployment crisis. Reduction in government spending, particularly on social services, led to declines in healthcare and education quality. Poverty rates also increased as a direct consequence of the removal of subsidies for fuel and basic services.

I distinctly remember all the rhetorical maneuvers that officials of the IBB regime used to fray nerves, and they are awfully similar to what honchos of the Tinubu regime now use: it will get worse before it gets better, there is light at the end of the tunnel, there is no gain without pain, Nigeria simply can’t afford to fund subsidies, our economy would collapse if we don’t restructure the economy, the current system is unsustainable, we’ll all smile and appreciate the wisdom of this temporary sacrifice when the gains start coming, etc.

By 1993 when IBB left power, Nigeria became firmly secured in the economic toilet. Manufacturing collapsed, social unrest rose, and brain drain (which is now called “japa”) started and blossomed, and hopelessness was democratized.

Someone very close to IBB who nonetheless opposed his IMF-backed economic “restructuring” told me he asked one of IBB’s IMF/World Bank-appointed finance ministers a few years ago what happened to the “gains” they promised would replace the “pains” people underwent between 1986 and 1993?

He reported him as saying the gains didn’t materialize because the “restructuring” wasn’t implemented faithfully. Meanwhile, thousands of people died, and millions of people were destabilized because of this “restructuring.” I can bet that Tinubu and his defenders would give the same excuse when they dig Nigeria deeper into the depths of despair at the end of their “reforms.”

In a 1995 report titled “Structural Adjustment and the Spreading Crisis In Latin America,” we see the same scenario repeated throughout the developing countries of South and Central America. Everywhere subsidies were removed, currency devalued, and so-called market forces given a free reign, the result is always the same: devastation, poverty, hopelessness, death of the middle class, etc.

The report instructively noted: “Mexico is one of many cases worldwide where adjustment and the free market have not only failed to alleviate poverty, but have further polarized the country and led to disaster, economic and social. World Bank and IMF officials continued to say — right up to the current crisis — that adjustment’s attack on poverty would take time, but, after more than a dozen years of adjustment in Mexico, things have never been worse than they are today, and there is no light at the end of the tunnel. There must be a point at which these institutions acknowledge that their strategy has failed and needs to be abandoned, and that a new, more democratically determined approach to the country’s development has to be taken.”

But it’s not inevitable that governments in developing countries should follow the IMF/World Bank’s ruinous prescriptions. Many countries with leaders who have guts and who care for the welfare of their people resist these institutions. And it often turns out that the only countries that are witnessing inclusive growth and development are countries that have chosen to depart from the hell-paved path created by the IMF and the World Bank.

For example, in 1997, when Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and South Korea faced economic headwinds and turned to the IMF and the World Bank for financial bailout, they were offered help with the usual conditionalities attached: budget cuts, subsidy removal, currency devaluation, etc.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed rejected the conditions. He said they would choke off economic growth, bankrupt companies, and cause massive unemployment in his country.  So, he went counter to the counsel of the IMF. Instead of budget cuts, he increased government spending. Instead of currency devaluation, he defended the ringgit, Malaysia’s currency, by fixing it to the US dollar. Malaysia recovered from the economic crisis faster than its IMF-obedient neighbors.

During “A Meeting of Minds” dialogue organized by Forbes magazine in 2009, the magazine’s chief executive officer and editor-in-chief, Steve Forbes, asked Mahathir how and why he bucked the IMF and did better than countries that slavishly obeyed it.

“Fortunately, I am not a financier,” he said. “I know very little about economics, so I do things which are not quite off props. When people tell me that the right way to handle a crisis like that is to obey the IMF and the World Bank, I thought otherwise. I actually examined their prescriptions, and I found that those prescriptions would actually make matters worse, so I didn’t see why I should be following them.”

I am glad Mahathir attributed his success in standing up to the IMF to his not being a financier and knowing “very little about economics.” It’s as if he was talking about Nigeria’s gaggle of slavish, brain-dead, self-impressed, IMF-controlled know-things who pass themselves off as “economic experts” and who have popularized the aggravating idiocy that subsidies are bad and must be removed because they are supposedly bad for the economy and don’t benefit the poor.

Now we know the truth. We need more people who “know very little about economics” and a lot about commonsense to make economic decisions for Nigeria.

The questions people with lots of common sense and very little knowledge of “economics” should ask are, what does it profit a national economy if a government increases the cost of production for manufacturing companies through sharp spikes in the cost of petrol and electricity?

What benefits does a country derive from a policy that causes mass pauperization, which ensures that everyday citizens can’t afford the basic things of life, not to talk of discretionary spending?  Recession kicks in when people have no money to spend.

How does a country get light at the end of the tunnel when its policies trigger inflation and a once-in-a-generation cost-of-living crisis because it devalued its currency under the instruction of far-flung economic institutions notorious for instigating mass misery in developing countries and that are concerned more for “their loans, not on growth,” as Mahathir once put it? How can a country surrender its economic sovereignty to a foreign entity and tell its citizens to expect a bumper harvest in an undefined future?

The only benefit of the ongoing “economic reforms,” according to Tinubu and his officials, is that it is bringing in more money for the government. And what does the government do with the money? Fritter it away in frivolities while people starve and die.

Even if the money will be used to build or renew infrastructure—we all know it won’t—if this is achieved at the expense of pauperizing the great majority of our people, it is still worthless.

Only people who are alive and healthy use infrastructure. The time to know very little economics and have lots of commonsense is now because the lofty “tomorrow” Tinubu’s IMF economic policies are promising will never come. It never came for countries that implemented similar policies.

The Police Command in Benue said yesterday that  no fewer than 20 medical students from University of Jos were kidnapped in Otukpo on Thursday evening.

Benue Police Public Relations Officer Sewuese Anene told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday by telephone that the incident happened at 5.30 pm.

Anene said that the students who were traveling to Enugu for their annual Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students convention were ambushed and kidnapped in Otukpo.

“A report was received that medical students from Jos were on their way from Jos to Enugu and were kidnapped around Otukpo.

“No fewer than 20 students were ambushed and kidnapped around Otukpo. They are coming from Jos,” she said.

[TheNation]

It’s typical for the average Igbo man to think his life is incomplete without a male child.

Read this man’s message to me on the matter:

“A friend of mine is in a mess. His problems started when his wife left him. They had been having issues because, according to him, the woman was cantankerous, and he often dreaded their bedroom because she had a habit of stripping herself naked to lay curses on him and those she claimed were enabling him to break their home.

“She would do this while walking around with flaming-coloured candles in hand. It got so bad that he rented a small apartment where he often stayed to relax. In no time, he found himself a companion in a young lady he had assisted in the past.

“Meanwhile, his wife had to travel to her hometown with their son (who has special needs). Some days later, he was told that the boy (aged 15) accidentally drowned in a swimming pool.

“His wife came back, accused his lover of being behind their son’s death, packed her belongings, and left their matrimonial home. The boy was their only son; the others are girls.

“The lady now occupying his rented apartment had been pregnant for him a few times but had miscarriages. One day, the same lady returned from a prayer outing and told him it was revealed to her that due to the curse his wife placed on him, he would never be able to get any woman pregnant again.

“He said he was so disturbed (because he truly wanted a son) that he took a break from the lady for a while. Around that time, he met another woman (a one-night stand) but found himself really drawn to her, and in no time, he rented an apartment for her.

“The long and short of it is that this new lady became pregnant around the same time he realised his other lover was also pregnant. Both women have since given birth. The second lady had a baby girl, but the one living with him had a boy. He is planning to marry her, but he doesn’t have the support of his family.

“According to them, the person his wife accused of killing their brother’s son shouldn’t become part of their family. He actually likes the second lady more but is grappling with guilt concerning the other lady.

“He claimed she has gone through a lot trying to give him a son. Otherwise, he has a lot of complaints about her. For example, he said she nags as much as his first wife.

“And their space has become a home to her lazy siblings and their mother. Almost all of them live in that house now, and all they do is eat and watch television daily, as none of them work.

“He also said this lady does not work, yet she has very expensive tastes. According to him, none of the hair she buys is less than N350,000. She also defrauds him by inflating household expenses.

“He said it’s actually in the space of the other lady that he finds a semblance of peace, coupled with the fact that she is very clean and a good cook. What’s your advice to him? He is an Igbo man.”

From Oby

If male children were destined to play more important roles in your life, life would have given them to you. But if all you have are daughters, know they are the ones you will need in your life.

God knows what He is doing, and what He is doing is something that only time will reveal. It took my parents’ old age for me to understand this Igbo adage, “nwanyi bu nwa” (a daughter is worth it).

At a certain point in a parent’s life, it won’t matter which child is male or female. What will matter is which child cares.

So, the child life has given you is exactly who you will need in your life.

If this man conducts a DNA test on those newborns, he may be shocked that one or even both do not belong to him because he is dealing with desperate women who see him as a meal ticket and would do anything to latch onto him for economic survival.

I hope he has done a complete check on his health status!

Cacophony fills the Nigerian sports space. 

From the ashes of the country’s participation at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games springs the shrill of anger and condemnation. In the past one week, Nigerians have collectively vented their anger and frustration at those they perceive to have caused the country’s failure to return from Paris with a single medal. They are baying for the blood of sports officials, especially that of the Sports Minister, because the buck of the calamitous ‘failure’ of the athletes stops at his desk. They ask: How can a country of over 200 million people that expended N12 Billion Naira fail to win a single medal? 

Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympic Movement, will be quivering in his grave: since when has winning medals become a matter of size of a country, or population, or amount of money spent on the eve of the event, or wishful thinking, or unearned expectations? 

Fundamentally, every country goes to the Olympics with all the athletes that achieve the qualifying standards through pre-Olympic competitions, and not on their likelihood to win medals. That’s why Nigeria went with 82 qualified athletes. Of this number, how many, realistically, were expected to win any medal? 

In Paris there were 10,500 athletes from 205 countries. How many can win the 329 medals at stake? Are the other over 10,000 athletes failures? 

To win any medal is not a stroll in the park. It is earned on the fields of competition. To even get to the Olympics is a painstaking ‘journey’. The 100 metres finals will last only 10 seconds. What is required to get to that point is training hard for 6 to 9 hours every day for several years; surviving health, fitness and unforeseen challenges; competing against hundreds of the best athletes around the world for those many years; securing funds to train, hire personnel and compete in high level events; securing the services of experts to successfully navigate the athlete through the treacherous terrain leading to ultimate success; to be self-motivated and to be favoured by the elements. Which of these did Nigeria do to prepare its sprinters and earn the right of expectation to win a medal? 

At the end of all the above, those that successfully navigate the minefields and win medals, hardly ever do so coming from the blues, or by accident. They pass through the crucible of fire. 

Sentiments aside, in all facets of life, including sports, Nigeria should be one of the leading lights of Africa, providing leadership that will steer away from under-development into the bright light of success. The evidence of this possibility has always been there, a musical tune that has been played for decades in the corridors of international sports. It is only unfortunate that successive Nigerian governments have been deaf to the lyrics of the song. 

Meanwhile, we must not confuse the little incidents that happen during every Olympic Games to all teams as any measure of their success or failure. Administrative lapses will always occur. Without accepting or embracing them as normal, what we should never do is use them as a basis to throw away the baby with the bath water, or to smear the performance of the athletes with that tar. These issues must be separated, each bearing its own responsibility. We have history to take lessons from. 

In attending the 1980 Olympics, Nigeria went with the best set of sports administrators in the history of the country – a Sports Ministry and an NSC complete with Isaac Akioye and that whole generation of stakeholders and seasoned administrators. 

The world was embroiled in a crisis that rendered the Moscow Olympics one of the worst in history. Nigeria did not even qualify in many sports but were invited to take part at the last minute. 

The country did not win a single medal despite having a crack number of great athletes in several sports that were to blossom in latter years. 

Yet, what dominated the media on return to the country was a ‘sex scandal’ that never happened, an imaginary relationship between an athlete and an official of the National Sports Commission created by a journalist gathering information from the Olympic Village through the telephone from his hotel room in Moscow. 

That report fuelled the anger of Nigerians and was attributed for the country’s failure to win any medal. The country went into a frenzy, calling for heads to roll. 

Heads eventually did roll. A judicial panel of enquiry was set up headed by a respected legal luminary. Many innocent administrators were fired and the whole sports architecture of Nigeria, well-founded and running well, were dismantled and destroyed. 

Till date, Nigeria has not found its feet again in sports administration for proper sports development.

Since then, Nigeria has been groping, unable to pick the pieces of that moment of madness, seeking answers to the perennial failure, since then, of the sports sector. 

Forget 1996, the glorious year of Nigeria at the Olympics. The victory of that campaign was not deliberate or earned by any deliberate policies, or program. People forget easily that even the ‘Dream Team’ that mesmerised the world and created Olympic history went to the Games in administrative shambles. That team was the assembly of some of the most gifted footballers in Nigeria’s history. That’s why they eventually won. 

Nigeria’s first ever individual Gold medallist came from the blue, in a totally independent pursuit by a lady wronged and condemned by the system and the country. Chioma Ajunwa was not a product of Nigeria’s successful program. 

Nigeria’s sprinters of that generation, both male and female, had for years been demonstrating individual capability on the international circuit prior to the Olympics – Onyali, Ogunkoya, Olopade, Alozie, Egbunike, Ezinwa Brothers, Sunday Uti, and several others, talented athletes that came through the web of Nigeria’s limited development programmes, hinged mostly to training in America, through self-help or federal government scholarships. 

Nothing was properly structured before and after 1980 to produce a steady stream of the best sprinters embedded in our genes. That’s why 2012 in London was another perceived ‘failure’. Nothing had changed. 

That’s why, as a bona fide member of Nigeria’s pool of Olympians, over 700 strong throughout the country’s history, I appreciate how only a handful have Olympic medals around their necks to show for their place in history. Yet, we all lay claim to being ‘successful’ Olympians. 

We must be humble and appreciate all Olympic athletes. Even on the Nigerian Olympians platform, I read strident condemnation of officials and athletes considered ‘failures’ as a result of administrative lapses. These are distractions from the main issue, clouds that hide the real culprit of Nigeria’s failure – a country that does not take sports as seriously as it should. Throwing money at the last minute without a solid development program, not making sports a priority area for the government’s attention, and just hoping that medals will be won, are wishful and unproductive.

Lets step back from what happened at Paris 2024, look again at where the country stands in the area of producing a rich and consistent line of world class athletes, encourage the great performances (even without medals) that some of the athletes put up in some of the sports (recognised by the rest of the world but not Nigeria), do the things we should have done that we know but lack the courage to confront, stop the lamentation and move on to the next steps along the path to deserved success.

The Nigerian government must wake up and take sports very seriously. 

The country must demonstrate this by declaring a State of Emergency in the sector. 

The President should sign the bill that brings back the National Sports Commission immediately, separating the Ministry of Sports Development from the Commission with clearly defined roles. 

A board of the Commission should be constituted comprising tested, experienced and qualified stakeholders, technocrats and private sector players. 

Amongst other things, the National Sports Lottery initiative should be re-jigged as a major means of raising funds for Nigeria’s sports development. 

The constitution of Sports Federations should be amended under the supervision of the Sports Development Ministry to reflect Nigeria’s best sports interest and needs, with a clear and achievable development agenda. 

Nigerians are angry. They have a right and justification to be, but they should not vent their angst against the wrong persons, or for the wrong reasons. 

Quote: Forget 1996, the glorious year of Nigeria at the Olympics. The victory of that campaign was not deliberate or earned by dint of any deliberate policies, or program

Chelsea’s new coach Enzo Maresca has a Premier League baptism of fire when champions Manchester City visit on Sunday as the Italian scrambles to form a cohesive team from another chaotic transfer window for the Blues.

In keeping with Chelsea’s transfer policy since a takeover two years ago, fronted by LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly, the London club have embarked on a spending spree focusing on promising young talent.

Winger Pedro Neto’s £54 million ($65 million) move from Wolves is the standout from nine new arrivals for an estimated £160 million.

But after splashing well over £1 billion on signings over the past two years, Chelsea’s website lists 43 first-team players and over 50 are still contracted to the club when those on loan are included.

Many have been sidelined from Maresca’s pre-season training to focus on finding moves before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

“At the moment if I start to think I have 43 players it is not a good thing,” Maresca said on Friday.

“(Co-sporting directors) Paul (Winstanley) and Laurence (Stewart) they are there in charge of finding solutions for these kind of players. I’m not the guy in charge of finding solutions for loan players, otherwise they have to pay me double!”

To add to Maresca’s task he has to win over a discontented fan base.

Many in the Chelsea support were craving some stability as Mauricio Pochettino turned around a poor start to finish strongly and climb up to sixth in the Premier League.

Instead, the club’s hierarchy had more change in mind as Pochettino departed after just one season in charge.

Supporters are also unhappy at seeing players that have come through the club’s youth system sacrificed to balance the books.

Conor Gallagher is not available for selection on Sunday despite the collapse of his move to Atletico Madrid.

Maresca has been handed a five-year contract following his success in leading Leicester back to the Premier League in his only season at the King Power.

– A ‘double squad’ –

The 44-year-old’s only other senior managerial role was a short-lived stint at Parma in 2021, but his time working alongside City boss Pep Guardiola was also crucial in helping him land the Chelsea job.

“All the managers need time,” said Guardiola on Friday.

“I don’t know if Chelsea is the place to do this but give him time and it will work.”

Despite working at some of the world’s richest clubs, Guardiola’s preference has always been to work with a smaller squad to maintain harmony among his players.

And he has sympathy with the situation Maresca inherits.

“When you see a double squad, yeah it’s a lot!” Guardiola added. “But the reason why they do it is not my business.”

The last time Chelsea beat City was in the 2021 Champions League final.

Just over three years on and only Reece James and Ben Chilwell remain from the Chelsea team that night in Porto.

Maresca believes the Blues are now on the right track to eventually get back to challenging City for the Premier League title.

“The big difference in this moment between us and other teams that are dominating English football, is just a matter of time,” he said.

“Clubs that have worked with the same manager nine years, eight years. We’re working with the same manager for one month.

“For sure with time, we are going to close the gap. Hopefully it can happen very soon.”

The question looming over Chelsea’s season, though, is whether Maresca will get that time to come good given the club’s history of trigger-happy owners.

[Vanguard]

In recent time Hon Justice Sylvanis Oriji of the FCT High Court has been subjected to unwarranted censure following his prudent decision to restrict the End Bad Government protesters to the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja. This calumny, often instigated by some agents and surprisingly some lawyers, grossly misrepresents him as inimical to the populace. In reality, Justice Oriji was assiduously discharging his judicial duty to maintain public order while respecting the rights of citizens.

Judicial Responsibility and Public Safety

The judiciary bears the sacrosanct responsibility of balancing the right to peaceful assembly with the government's obligation to maintain public order. While peaceful protests are a cornerstone of democratic liberties, enabling citizens to voice dissent and hold the government accountable, they may also present risks to public safety. Hon Justice Oriji's ruling ought to be viewed through this lens. By designating a specific area for the protest, he was not inhibiting dissent but rather creating a controlled space allowing citizens to express their grievances without provoking chaos or violence.

A Call for Support and Recognition

It is essential for us to rally behind both Hon Justice Oriji and the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, in recognition of their commitment to public safety. Their actions reflect an acute awareness that chaotic protests can lead to perilous outcomes. Indeed, the court's order likely averted significant harm. Therefore, I implore President Tinubu to confer a National Honour upon Justice Oriji, acknowledging his judiciousness in this critical matter.

Balancing Rights and Responsibilities

This predicament underscores the delicate balance that must be maintained between rights and responsibilities. While it is vital that citizens be permitted to protest, the implications for our democracy hinge significantly upon how such assemblies are managed. Restrictions must be reasonable and proportionate; overly broad measures could encroach upon democratic freedoms, while targeted actions prioritising safety are indispensable.

Learning from Other Approaches

We can draw valuable lessons from Governor Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, whose approach exemplifies constructive engagements with stakeholders in Ondo State in ensuring that the State is at peace before, during and after the protest. His Excellency’s administration emphasised open communication and collaboration with citizens, striving for mutually agreeable solutions while safeguarding public safety. He also encourage the Office of the Attorney-General of Ondo State, to set up a 24-hour Interventionist Unit, Citizens Rights and Advisory Bureau, CRAB, in which the people of the State come with their complaints and enquiries through our dedicated phone lines and other electronic devices to get across to the governor and his aides.

Advice for Future Protests

For the benefit of future demonstrations, I would tender the following recommendations:

1. Careful Planning: Organisers should proactively engage with relevant authorities to discuss logistics and safety protocols.
2. Effective Communication: Utilising media platforms to articulate clear, concise messages will ensure the protest's objectives are effectively communicated.
3. Commitment to Peace: Emphasising non-violence will help safeguard the protest from being co-opted by malicious elements.
4. Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Cooperation with authorities can cultivate a safer environment, ensuring that the rights of all parties are respected.
5. Seek Alternatives: Prior to embarking on protests, engaging with the government to explore alternative resolutions is crucial.

Conclusion

In summation, we must acknowledge Hon Justice Oriji's vital role in preserving public order and protecting the rights of citizens. His decision should not be viewed as an affront to democracy, but rather as a necessary measure aimed at ensuring safety. As we champion the right to protest, we must concurrently respect the judicial processes that work diligently to uphold balance within our society.

-Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, PhD
Hon Attorney General of Ondo State, Nigeria.

With the current national high social temperature over inflation, exchange rate concerns and other issues, it is easy to say that this is not the time to talk about the head of any institution of State at all. But not when a book is written about the person in such a way that it is as much an account of institutional history as it is also a narrative about a man whose trajectory is being inextricably woven into the story of an institution of state as well.

I met Bashir Adewale Adeniyi the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) nearly 15 years ago, at a management retreat for senior and middle level customs officers where he was a participant. In the course of the two modules I took during the programme, I noticed how he blended into the landscape in a peculiar sort of way. Alert, unobtrusive, calmly and seemingly casual, but with a subdued air or seriousness and a friendly disposition that was also always scrutinizing the world.

He did not raise too many, or even, questions during the retreat. But he took notes. Selective notes, that is; whenever something struck him in the course of the various presentations. He was thoroughly attentive, but without seeming too absorbed like a bookworm. I said to my colleague, as I was leaving the weeklong event on the third day: “That other one with a staid and unforced composure is likely to one day become the Comptroller of Customs”. My colleague chuckled and asked why. When I replied that there was something about him that suggested such a career path, and also that he must be good at “organized engagements, without any sense, or air, of panic or trepidation”, my colleague accused me of “excessive grammar”, and we left the matter at that. 

I took notice when Adeniyi routinely outperformed many who had served as spokespersons of the Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS) before him. I noticed when he was announced Comptroller General of the NCS. I also noticed when the Service embarked on the installation of scanners with a 200 containers clearance per hour capacity, under his watch.

I wrote about it on this page, on June 8, saying: “This will certainly address the problem of port congestion and drive efficiency, while putting an end to the nightmare (well, including daymare) of importers and clearing agents. One thing is clear in this regard: The Custom’s Trade Facilitation Programme of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, is yielding something worth looking forward to. Nigeria Customs is working in collaboration with Trade Modernisation Project Limited on this infrastructural intervention”.

Then, last week and from nowhere, Kabir Abdulsalam and Mariam Umar Na’Allah came out with a book detailing Wale Adeniyi’s responsible application of the principles of professional public relations in the management of a public organization. The book, titled, Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management, answers the following questions to a good measure: (1) Who is Wale Adeniyi? (2) How did he improve stakeholder engagement as Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service? (3) To what extent can public relations skills, experience within the system and understanding of global best practices in custom administration be brought to bear on the life of a decades-old organization in a VUCA world? (4) What difference can effective management, crisis communication skills, the lobbying of decision makers, CSR initiatives, and reputation management make in the remaking of a government agency?

Using Adeniyi as a peg, the book offers the reader detailed insights into how to be successful as a leader with a Public Relations orientation. The reader who actually uses the publication as a manual for professional success in the public relation industry will be a success story. The authors insist that Adeniyi simply deployed his training in relationship management and his grasp of the dynamics of the sector, guided by sectoral and global best practices and they gave good reasons for their submission.

While the book successfully showcases the journey of one man as well as the journey of an organization under a new vision, it also shows how what Adeniyi had learnt over the years as an insider gave him the very foundation he needed for crafting and driving sustainable organizational reengineering. He made public perception management a uniquely essential component of responsible office holding. Thus, this book of 12 chapters offers the reader valuable insights, tips and professional best practices for PR professionals, using the endeavours of a seasoned practitioner as reference.

Part of what the authors set out to achieve in this book, and which they achieved in the first chapter, was to show the importance of stakeholder engagement and how the new CG of Customs adopted this approach as a tool for trust building and border community engagement. The authors also showed how this same tool and method eventually became instruments for the strengthening of regional relations under the new CG.

The PR lesson from this, especially the CGs endeavour to strike a balance between national security and trade facilitation speaks volumes about his capacity for strategic engagement while at a very sensitive duty post. The summary of those lessons is captured for the reader in this paragraph in chapter 1: “Effective stakeholder engagement positively influences organizational, outcomes, such as innovation, learning, sustainability practices, and other accomplishments”.

Chapters two and three of the book deal with media relations and press releases, as leadership, communication and organizational branding tools. The authors drew from history, and from the experiences of other nations, to drive home the relevance, significance and impact of media relations, including Adeniyi’s deployment of media visitations as a leader. Anyone who wishes to draw useful lessons about speech writing, rejoinder writing, feature/opining articles and more to look more closely at this chapter.

Chapters 4 and 5 x-ray for the reader the meaning of event management and event design, such that an essential point about the subject matter of the chapter is captured thus: “PR and event management require creativity, communication, coordination and context awareness”. And chapter 5 drives home some vital lessons on building an online persona, among other things. One of the vital lessons here, especially with regards to the positive impact of PR on NCS under Adeniyi, is captured thus in chapter 5: “…the NCS has achieved remarkable milestones in its digital presence and public engagements…”.

The sixth chapter, which deals with crisis communication, has these to tell us: (1), Get a clear understanding of what the issues are, their scope and likely impact, before you engage; (2) Secure management and/or leadership approval before taking any issue into the public domain; (3) Build trust through transparency and empathetic interpersonal relations; and (4) Ensure that there is a designated spokesperson who is trained, responsible and accessible, to handle all public engagements.

Chapters 7 and 8 deal with lobbying and CSR, respectively. Chapter 8 is important for anyone who wishes to garner useful insights into CSR as a strategic imperative and the role of CSR in community relations, especially what is written there about the “Three Categories of Good Neighbours” and the shift from CSR to responsible business strategy.

Chapter 9 of Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management, gives you practically everything you wish to know about reputation, reputation management, and how NCS used the pillars of reputation asset to make so much difference under its current CG. The tools for this include the inhouse publications circulars, official website, Nigeria customs broadcasting network (NCBN).

Here is the authors’ submission about the impact of these publications on NCS: “The strategic function of in-house publications within the Custom Service has transformed the organization’s communication landscape, fostering internal cohesion, building transparency, and trust in the public, showcasing achievements and innovations, humanizing leadership and engaging various stakeholders”.

The questions thrown up by this book, and answered for the reflective reader who sees beyond the mere narrative about the CG of Customs, include the following: (1) How does a PR professional take up hard core leadership and management position and function seamlessly in this new capacity? (2) What lines of action are open to an innovative leader who meets the pressures of the moment armed only with good ideas about love for country and knowledge of his sector? The answer to these questions lies in the book we are presenting here today.

That answers lies at the very core of what Adeniyi started, and is still doing, at NCS. Good intentions will always have a bumpy ride when the terrain is made up of competing, diverse and even dangerously domineering interests and orientations. The authors have taken us through one man’s personal journey, as well as his experiences; guided by his own competence, his resilience and his creative imagination. They have also shown how this one man’s journey has become the journey of an organization in the company of an organization.

Kabir Abdulsalam and Mariam Umar Na’Allah’s Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management, offers measurable and verifiable assertions about various aspects of PR, management and public administration. The book gives those who wish to travel on this road a road map and a guide. The observations, insights, and suggestions in the book are not at variance with the submissions of industry players and stakeholders in both the public relations profession and the regulatory agencies subsector.

The major submissions of the book are easily relatable and experience-confirmed independently. The book is, at once, an account of the trajectory of the CG of NCS and also a good profiling of what to do in an organization to make a difference; using professional PR principles and sectoral and industry knowledge. 

The compact book, Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management, should be put out in the public domain for PR students and practitioners. Well-meaning individuals and organizations should purchase and generously donate as many copies as possible to faculties of mass communication, business and public administration. The book should also be considered a useful and relatable literature for the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Administrative Staff college of Nigeria (ASCON), the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS) and other high calibre human capital development and leadership institutions and organizations.

I consider this book a good self-advertisement for the authors and the publishers and I congratulate them for it. Their capturing of the essential PR lessons at the end of every chapter of the work is a novel and arresting encapsulation of the vitals of every segment of the book. The book shows how to lead by relating in a sustainable way

QUOTE

it is easy to say that this is not the time to talk about the head of any institution of State at all. But not when a book is written about the person in such a way that it is as much an account of institutional history as it is also a narrative about a man whose trajectory is being inextricably woven into the story of an institution of state as well.

In a world where the term "Role model" is often loosely used, Kate Henshaw stands out as a true epitome of what it means to inspire, uplift, and lead by example. Over the years, Kate has carved out a niche for herself not just as an actress, but as a symbol of resilience, integrity, and dedication, qualities that make her a role model not just for aspiring actors, but for models and young professionals across various fields.

Her journey to becoming a role model is not just about her successful acting career, although that is a significant part of her story. With a career spanning over two decades, she has graced the screens with remarkable performances, bringing to life characters that resonate with audiences. However, it is her work ethic, professionalism, and consistency that have truly set her apart. She has never been one to rest on her laurels; instead, she continues to push boundaries and set new standards in Nollywood, demonstrating that excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey.

In addition to her acting prowess, she has remained a fervent advocate for fitness and healthy living. Her dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle has made her a fitness icon in Nigeria and beyond. With her daily workout routines, motivational posts, and infectious energy, she has inspired countless individuals to take charge of their health. In an industry where physical appearance is often scrutinized, her approach to fitness is refreshing. She promotes wellness not just for aesthetic reasons but as a means of living a balanced, fulfilling life. This holistic view of health is something that models, who often face pressure to maintain certain body standards, can learn from and adopt.

The entertainment industry is rife with challenges, including the temptation to compromise one’s values for fame and fortune. However, she has remained steadfast in her principles. Known for her candidness and unwillingness to conform to the pressures of the industry, she has navigated her career with a strong moral compass. This integrity is a key reason why she is revered not just by fans, but by her peers in the industry. For models, who often face the dilemma of staying true to themselves versus fitting into industry standards, her journey serves as a beacon of hope that one can be successful without compromising their values.

Beyond her personal achievements, Henshaw’s philanthropic efforts further solidify her status as a role model. She is deeply involved in various charitable causes, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for issues close to her heart, such as child health and education. Her commitment to giving back to society demonstrates that true success is not just about personal gain, but about lifting others as she climbs. This altruistic spirit is a powerful lesson for models and young professionals who aspire to make a difference in the world.

In the modeling industry, where the focus is often on external beauty, Kate Henshaw offers a refreshing perspective. Her life and career show that beauty is not just skin deep; it is the result of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to personal growth. Models looking for someone to emulate need not look further than Aunty Kate, as she is fondly called by her fans an following on social media platforms, whose life is a testament to the fact that true beauty and success come from within.

Without sounding panegyric in this context, Kate Henshaw is more than just a star; she is a shining example of what it means to be a role model in the truest sense of the word. As models and young professionals navigate their careers, they would do well to draw inspiration from her journey, embodying the values that have made her a respected figure both on and off the screen.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, not a few of her colleagues in the Nollywood sector of Nigeria’s economy see her as a testimony of a generous Spirit. The foregoing can be verified by asking Google as internet does not lie.

In the vibrant and often competitive world of Nollywood, where personal success can sometimes overshadow collective growth, the name, Kate Henshaw, consistently pop up as a beacon of generosity and support. Beyond her stellar acting career, Henshaw is celebrated by her colleagues for her unwavering kindness, support, and willingness to uplift others in the industry.

Given the foregoing, it is expedient to opine that this article highlights the voices of those who have been touched by her goodness, painting a portrait of a woman whose influence extends far beyond the screen.

As a pillar of support in Nollywood, Kate Henshaw’s impact on her colleagues is nothing short of remarkable. Time and again, actors and filmmakers alike have spoken eloquently about her generosity, often crediting her with being a crucial support system during challenging times in their careers. Her readiness to lend a helping hand, offer advice, or even just provide a listening ear has endeared her to many within the industry.

One of the most vocal admirers of Kate Henshaw's kindness is her fellow actress, Uche Jombo. In several interviews, Jombo has praised Henshaw for her role in helping her navigate the early stages of her career. According to Jombo, she was one of the first established stars to reach out to her when she was just starting, offering not just professional guidance but also personal encouragement. This act of kindness left a lasting impression on Jombo, who has often referred to Henshaw as a "sister" rather than just a colleague.

In a similar vein, veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), and the former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta has also publicly acknowledged Kate Henshaw's generosity, recounting a time when she stood by him during a difficult phase in his life. In a heartfelt social media post, RMD shared how Henshaw's words of encouragement and unwavering support helped him regain his confidence when he was at his lowest. He described her as a "true friend," someone who always goes the extra mile for those she cares about.

Still in a similar vein, actress Chioma Akpotha has often cited Kate Henshaw as a major influence in her career. In interviews, Akpotha has shared stories of how Henshaw took her under her wing, providing mentorship and guidance that were instrumental in shaping her path in Nollywood. Akpotha credits Henshaw with teaching her the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of industry pressures. This mentorship, she says, has been invaluable in her journey as an actress.

Also, producer and director Emem Isong has also spoken about Henshaw's support for women in the industry. Isong recounts how Henshaw has always been a vocal advocate for female empowerment, both on and off the screen. Whether it is supporting women-led projects, mentoring young actresses, or using her platform to speak out on issues affecting women, Henshaw has consistently shown that she is committed to lifting others up. Isong describes her as a "champion for women," whose actions speak louder than words.

Kate Henshaw’s colleagues’ testimonies paint a picture of a woman whose kindness and generosity have left an indelible mark on Nollywood. In an industry where it is easy to become absorbed in one’s success, Henshaw has remained grounded, always ready to assist and uplift those around her. Her legacy is not just in the roles she has played on screen, but in the lives she has touched off it.

In the end, it is clear that Kate Henshaw is more than just a talented actress; she is a role model, a mentor, and a friend to many in Nollywood. Her colleagues' glowing testimonials serve as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies not just in individual achievements, but in the ability to positively impact the lives of others. Kate Henshaw embodies this greatness, and for that, she will always be seen as an “Institution” in Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, particularly as she is not a controversial celebrity.