Yesterday, the authorities of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Mr. Omoyele Sowore for alleged cyberstalking. In admitting him to bail, the suspect was asked to produce a surety who is a Grade Level 17 officer in the Federal Public Service.

It is pertinent to draw the attention of the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies in Nigeria to fact that the Court of Appeal declared the involve Force of top level civil servants in the bail of criminal suspects in the the case of Dasuki V. Director-General, S.S.S. [2020]10 NWLR PT.1731 PG. 136-143 where Adah JCA (now JSC) held as follows:

"Let me quickly say that of concern it is to us that as a court we must be ready and sensitive enough not to allow or do anything that will run foul of the law. The issue of involving civil servants or Public Officers in the Public Service of the Federation and the State in bail of people accused of criminal offences has never been the practice in Nigeria or any part of the civilized world. It was an oversight on our part to allow it in. Our Civil and Public Service Rules do not have any room for it. Expecting a Level 16 Servant to own property worth N100,000,000, will be running counter to the Public Service Rules and by extension the war against corruption. It is in this respect that I will act ex debito justitiae to ensure that the aspect of involving serving Public Servant below the status of Level 16 Officer in either the state or Public Service of the Federation or any of its agencies be removed and I so order.”

In view of the clear and unambiguous state of the law, we are compelled to call on the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, to cancel the illegal bail condition for Mr. Omoyele Sowore and release him from police custody without any further delay.

The once-venerated tradition of awarding honorary doctorate degrees by Nigerian Universities has, unfortunately, become the exclusive preserve of the highest bidder. This is one of the casualties of the country's complex social and political dynamics. The prestigious accolades, meant to celebrate and acknowledge individuals whose exceptional achievements and significant contributions have demonstrably impacted various fields and contributed to nation-building, have been co-opted and distorted, often awarded for reasons far removed from genuine merit. 

What was intended as a symbol of excellence has been twisted into a tool for social climbing, political patronage, and shallow pursuit of status. The erosion of integrity surrounding honorary doctorate awards in Nigeria has reached a critical point, moving beyond mere misapplication and descending into a disturbing display of moral compromise and institutional decay. The once-prestigious recognition, intended to celebrate extraordinary achievements and contributions to society, has been so thoroughly debased that it now often serves as a badge of shallow status, a transactional commodity, and, alarmingly, a validation of individuals whose actions actively undermine societal values. 

This erosion of credibility is further compounded by the increasing lack of transparency surrounding the selection process. The criteria for awarding these honors have become so nebulous and subject to manipulation that it often appears that decisions are made based on personal connections and financial inducements rather than demonstrable merit. This lack of transparency breeds cynicism and casts doubt on the integrity of the institutions themselves. The absence of publicly available guidelines and the seemingly arbitrary selection of recipients have transformed what was meant to be a celebration of excellence into a source of public ridicule. Moreover, the abuse of honorary doctorates further entrenches existing social inequalities. 

By conferring prestige upon the already privileged, these awards inadvertently contribute to the marginalization of those who have dedicated their lives to genuinely impactful work but lack the means or connections to access such accolades. It reinforces a skewed perception of success, where hard work, intellectual pursuit, and genuine community service take a back seat to political connections, financial clout, and the flaunting of superficial accomplishments. This has a chilling effect on the aspirations of young people who aspire to make a real difference but lack the means to engage in transactional relationships. 

The proliferation of these awards, often bestowed upon individuals lacking any demonstrable connection to academic excellence, community service, or significant contributions to nation-building, has transformed the process into a charade. The public perception of these awards has understandably plummeted, with many now viewing them as little more than a transactional exchange, a means to boost personal prestige or to curry favor with powerful figures. 

The once revered symbol of academic accomplishment has been reduced to a mere bauble, a trinket devoid of genuine meaning or significance. The institutions, by their actions, have diminished themselves, eroding public trust in their judgment and commitment to genuine merit. The fundamental purpose of an honorary doctorate degree is to recognize extraordinary accomplishments that have fundamentally-materially benefited society. It is to shine a spotlight on those who have pushed the boundaries of knowledge, driven innovation, or made substantial contributions to the betterment of humanity. 

Historically, these awards were conferred on scholars, scientists, artists, and philanthropists whose legacies were clearly tied to positive national development. These honorees served as inspiration, their achievements are testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and intellectual prowess. However, this noble tradition has been significantly ridiculed in Nigeria. However, the current landscape awards are bedeviled by political maneuvering and the display of crass materialism. It is increasingly common to see politicians, regardless of their actual accomplishments, receiving such honors - often in what appears to be blatant quid pro quo scenarios. 

Similarly, wealthy individuals, many of whom have gained their fortune through questionable means, are routinely bestowed with these honors, ostensibly for their "philanthropy," though it is often a display of their financial might. Even popular musicians and entertainers, whose contributions, while valued in their respective fields, do not necessarily align with the intended purpose of the award, are now recipients of honorary doctorate degrees. The erosion of the criteria for these awards has effectively devalued their significance, rendering them little more than participation trophies for the powerful and privileged.

The ramifications of this perversion of the essence of honorary doctorate go beyond the simple devaluation of an academic honor. It creates a culture where true merit is often overshadowed by political connections and financial clout. By elevating individuals who have not necessarily achieved significant accomplishments to a level of academic reverence, it sends a dangerous message to the youth and upcoming generations.  It means hard work, intellectual pursuit, and genuine contribution are no longer valued or perceived as the primary paths to success and recognition. Instead, a narrative is being reinforced that influence and wealth are more powerful currencies than demonstrated competence and societal benefit. 

Moreover, the misuse of honorary doctorates, just like many other situations in the country, inadvertently fuels social stratification and marginalization. By showering accolades on those who already possess power and influence, it effectively further entrenches their dominance, leaving out those who have dedicated their lives to genuinely impactful work. Those individuals who might have made significant impact but lack the means to 'buy' their honors are made to feel valueless, further impacting their motivation and contribution to nation building.

Beyond the well-documented issues of political patronage and the rewarding of wealth irrespective of merit, a particularly concerning trend is the bestowal of these honorary degrees upon individuals who openly promote immorality and unethical behavior. We now see figures who glorify materialism, promote hedonistic lifestyles, or engage in activities that are antithetical to the nation's ethical and moral fabric being lauded with these academic honors. 

This normalization of questionable behavior by academic institutions sends a chilling message to young people, implying that success, however achieved, is worthy of praise, even when it flies in the face of established values and responsible citizenship. By bestowing these awards on individuals who often actively contribute to societal breakdown, institutions betray their responsibility to uphold moral standards and instead become complicit in the promotion of detrimental behavior. This not only dilutes the prestige of the award, but also undermines the moral compass of society itself.

The Nigerian academic community must take a critical look at the state of awards of honorary doctorate degrees. A comprehensive overhaul of the process is urgently needed, one that prioritizes merit, demonstrable societal impact, and a commitment to upholding ethical standards. This requires a rigorous review of the criteria for these awards, a transparent selection process, and a firm commitment to preserving the integrity of academic recognition. Until these fundamental changes are made, the honorary doctorate degrees will continue to assume a symbol of institutional decay and a testament to the troubling prevalence of moral compromise within the Nigerian system.

What should be a beacon of excellence has, through abuse, become a marker of questionable values. The award process must be free from political influence and based solely on demonstrable merit and significant societal impact. It is time to reverse this disturbing trend and restore the honorary doctorate to its intended purpose: a prestigious recognition of true excellence and a catalyst for positive change, not a validation of dominance and an instrument of marginalization. Only then can it serve as a genuine beacon of inspiration for future generations. 

The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi,CFR, Ojaja II in company of about prominent Yoruba traditional Rulers in Ekiti state was at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD) last night to appeal to the founder of the university Aare Afe Babalola to forgive the human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi and withdraw the ongoing criminal case instituted against him.

Ooni Ogunwusi arrived Ado Ekiti at about 10:08pm last night into the waiting hands of Aare Afe Babalola himself accompanied by the Vice Chancellor Professor Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde

Bursar Pastor Joseph Modupe Babalola,

The school PRO, Deans of various faculties at the university and the legal team of Afe Babalola handling Farotimi's criminal case.

The Vice chancellor in her welcome speech at the meeting acknowledged Ooni's love for the school's founder and the school itself which she described as one of the leading universities in Africa.

The Ooni briefed the journalists outcome of the meeting which was earlier held close door between Afe Babalola and the Ooni accompanied by Ewi of Ado, Oba Rufus Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, Ajero of Ijero, Oba Adewole Joseph Adebayo, the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Samuel Adejinmi Adu, Alaaye of Efon Alaaye, Oba Dr. Emmanuel Aladejare Agunsoye II and the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti who doubles as Chairman, Ekiti Council Of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ilori Faboro that having watched the scenarios surrounding the criminal case instituted against Dele Farotimi with rapt attention, it has become very imperative to apply Alternative Dispute Resolution method which Yoruba race was known for in the past because it's a case between father and son.

"We have come today to appeal to Aare Babalola to forgive his son; Dele Farotimi and what we want from him is to withdraw the criminal charges against Farotimi today. 

"Aare Afe Babalola, you are an elderstateman, you have seen it all, you are one of the iconic voices in this country, a great man per excellence, you are a rare breed who has excelled in everything you have touched in this life, a very God fearing elderstateman, above all, you are one of the proponents of the Yoruba ethos of Omoluwabi which has been your strongest value that you hold in our country. This what we are using to bring down the tempo in what has happened between you and your son Dele Farotimi. We have been very proud of you as a great Yoruba elderstateman. You have done great things for this race and Nigeria such that your name can never be forgotten."

"We've all come together as traditional Rulers to discuss with you on this issue and this gentleman Dele Farotimi is your son and you must forgive him and withdraw the criminal charges against him. As a father, you have soft sons and you have tough sons, Dele Farotimi is a tough son of yours. You have indeed made a point that your name can not be be messed with".

"I hereby withdraw the criminal charges against Farotimi" - Afe Babalola.

When given the microphone to respond to the request made by the Ooni and the traditional Rulers, Aare Afe Babalola did not hesitate to accept the request saying he grew up as a child to understand such interventions by the traditional rulers. He declared he had not only forgiven Dele Farotimi but also will instruct his lawyers to withdraw the criminal charges against him with immediate effect, because of the honour for the Ooni and the other Obas. 

"Today is a very important day for me, I'm a Yoruba man and I'm very proud to be one. Ewi of Ado has come here to meet me on this matter, former president Obasanjo has intervened, same with Bishop Matthew Kukah and a host of other prominent Nigerians to ask for the exact thing you have come to ask for this evening., my answer to them has been "NO" but today my answer is "YES"

Your coming is unquantifiable in terms of money, who Am I? When the colonialists came here in 17th century or thereabouts, they found as a fact that Yoruba land was a highly organised society with an advanced systems of government with each town headed by an Oba who was regarded as a replica of God on earth. His words were commands."

In the middle ages, the Greeks had a saying"the meadow that grow on the bank of a river which obeys the direction of the flood remains strong forever but the meadow that grow that disobey the direction of the flood were broken asunder".

Aare Babalola concluded his response with a an Adage in Yoruba saying " Eni ti o ba nI nkan lati se, kii wo elegan rara" meaning "those who change the world for the better do not wait to respond to criticism"

He said he had listened to the Ooni's advice and he certainly didn't want to be a meadow by the riverside which disobeys the flood.

I was a lawyer who defended the EFCC law, yes I'm corrupt, I was given an oil block, when I looked at the money and saw that it was too much , I rejected it, yes I'm corrupt, I was offered ministerial appointments twice, I rejected it, yes I'm corrupt because whatever I am, I don't want anybody to say I made it through corruption. Look at my books, I'm Chairman, Transparency International based in Germany, I have given lectures against corruption with my papers in many universities globally. For someone to allege me that I have won my cases through corruption, it's an attempt to defame me, that was why I rejected all appeals earlier made to me. But when I heard that Ooni was coming, I knew I'm in a fix today. "Nkan de o". There is nothing I'm going to gain from his(Dele) imprisonment and there's nothing I want from the so called damages. I am not in quest of more wealth, I'm rather concerned on managing the one I have already. Dele Farotimi is hereby forgiven. On this occasion, I say "YES".

Ooni departed venue of the meeting at about half past midnight for his Ojaja Park in Akure from where he is expected to make his departure to Abuja on Monday.

Signed:

Otunba Moses Olafare,

Director, Media & Public Affairs,

Ooni's Palace

The news of 2Face Idibia’s divorce from Annie Idibia has sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond. For years, they were not just a couple but a symbol of enduring love amidst the turbulence of the Nigerian entertainment industry. Their separation is a stark reminder that even the most celebrated unions are not immune to challenges, and it has left many who saw them as a beacon of hope feeling deeply disappointed.

Aptly put, their marriage was a demonstration of a love story that inspired many.  In a world where celebrity marriages are often fleeting, 2Face and Annie Idibia stood out. Their love story seemed like the stuff of fairy tales, a tale of perseverance, commitment, and triumph over adversity. Annie first met 2Face when they were both teenagers. Despite the ups and downs that life threw at them, including 2Face’s well-publicized relationships with other women, Annie’s love and loyalty never wavered.

Their 2013 wedding in Dubai was a grand affair that captured the imagination of fans and the media. It was not just a wedding; it was a declaration of love that had withstood trials, a testament to the fact that love can conquer all. Annie’s steadfastness in the face of adversity earned her admiration, while 2Face’s eventual decision to make her his wife was seen as a triumph of true love.

For many, the Idibias’ marriage represented the possibility of stability and happiness in an industry often characterized by scandal and instability. In an era where divorce and separations among celebrities were becoming the norm, 2Face and Annie’s union stood as a counter-narrative, a proof that love could indeed endure.

Without a doubt, the divorce is a disappointment. In fact, news of their divorce has left fans and admirers grappling with a mixture of disbelief and disappointment. For years, the Idibias were not just a couple but an institution, a template for young couples and even older ones to emulate. Their public displays of affection and Annie’s unwavering support for 2Face through thick and thin were inspiring. Many Nigerians, tired of the frequent breakup stories in the entertainment industry, held onto the Idibias as an example of what could go right.

The divorce is particularly painful because it comes in an industry that has often been criticized for its lack of enduring marriages. From Tiwa Savage and Tee Billz to Funke Akindele and JJC Skillz, the list of high-profile separations is long and disheartening. 2Face and Annie’s split adds to this growing list and reinforces the perception that marriages in the entertainment world are not built to last.

At the moment, tongues are wagging, “What went wrong?” While the exact reasons for their separation remain private, there is no denying that the Idibias’ marriage faced its share of challenges. From rumors of infidelity to public spats, their relationship was not without its struggles. Annie herself has spoken publicly about the emotional toll of dealing with 2Face’s past relationships and the children he had with other women. Despite these challenges, they seemed to always find their way back to each other, making their divorce all the more surprising.

It is important to note that marriage is a deeply personal journey, and no one outside the relationship can fully understand the dynamics at play. While fans may feel disappointed, it is crucial to approach the situation with empathy and avoid casting blame. Both 2Face and Annie are human beings who deserve understanding and respect as they navigate this difficult phase of their lives.

At this juncture, it is expedient to ask, “Does their divorce has negative impact on fans and society.  Yes! The reason for sounding affirmative in this context cannot be farfetched as the Idibias’ divorce is not just a personal matter; it has broader implications for fans and society at large. For years, their marriage served as a counterbalance to the cynicism that often surrounds celebrity unions. It offered a glimmer of hope that love could survive fame, wealth, and the pressures of the entertainment industry. Their separation has left a void and has forced many to confront the realities of relationships, even those that seem perfect from the outside.

For young people who looked up to the Idibias as role models, the divorce is a sobering reminder that love alone is not always enough to sustain a marriage. It underscores the importance of communication, compromise, and mutual respect in building a lasting union. While the Idibias’ story may no longer serve as a template for marital success, it can still offer valuable lessons about resilience and the complexities of human relationships.

Given the Idibia’s divorce saga, it is not a misnomer to opine at this juncture that celebrity marriages have become a case study in pressure.  This is as the entertainment industry is notorious for its high divorce rates, and for good reason. In fact, celebrity marriages are often subjected to immense pressure, from the relentless scrutiny of the media to the challenges of balancing demanding careers with family life. Add to this the temptations and distractions that come with fame, and it’s easy to see why many celebrity unions struggle to survive.

The Idibias’ marriage was no exception. The constant public attention, coupled with the challenges of blending families and managing past relationships, created a unique set of pressures. While their ability to navigate these challenges for so long is commendable, it also highlights the immense toll that such pressures can take on a relationship.

Moving forward, it is expedient to opine that as fans come to terms with the news of 2Face and Annie’s divorce that it is important to remember that their story is not over. Both individuals have contributed significantly to the entertainment industry and have inspired millions with their talents and resilience. Their separation does not erase the love and happiness they shared, nor does it diminish their individual achievements.

For the Idibias, this is an opportunity to find healing and happiness in their own ways. For fans, it is a reminder to approach relationships with realism and to understand that even the most inspiring love stories can face challenges.

Without any scintilla of exaggeration, 2Face and Annie Idibia’s divorce is undoubtedly a disappointing development for those who saw them as a symbol of enduring love. However, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of marriage and the importance of empathy and understanding. While their union may have come to an end, the lessons from their journey remain. As fans, the best we can do is to respect their privacy, celebrate their contributions, and learn from their experiences. Life, after all, is a journey of highs and lows, and the Idibias’ story is no exception.

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with Switzerland to drive innovation, diversify the economy, and create lasting opportunities for future generations.

Akpabio highlighted Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest economy and a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), emphasizing the country’s willingness to engage with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) beyond traditional trade partnerships.

Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Chairman and members of the Swiss EFTA delegation to the National Assembly, Akpabio said, “We envision partnerships that will ignite innovation, diversify our economy, and create opportunities for generations to come. Switzerland and EFTA have long exemplified ingenuity and economic cooperation, setting a benchmark for unity and shared progress.”

He recalled the 2017 agreement in which Switzerland returned $321 million in recovered funds to Nigeria, describing it as a historic act that strengthened trust and set a global standard for accountability and justice.

Akpabio also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the naira exchange rate. He noted that these reforms are paving the way for sustainable growth, with projections suggesting a GDP growth rate of 4.17% by 2025.

“Our challenges can be overcome—not by one nation alone, but through the unity of many,” Akpabio said, expressing optimism about future collaborations.

On behalf of the Nigerian Senate, he thanked the delegation, saying, “May our deliberations be fruitful, our resolve unshakable, and our partnership enduring.”

Thomas Aeschi, leader of the delegation and a member of Switzerland’s House of Representatives, expressed optimism about strengthening economic ties with Nigeria. He noted that while EFTA has yet to formalize trade negotiations with Nigeria, the visit aimed to lay the groundwork for future collaboration.

“EFTA, comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein, is dedicated to fostering free trade and economic cooperation with countries outside the European Union. Nigeria, as a country of immense potential, is an indispensable partner for Switzerland in Western Africa,” Aeschi said.

He underscored Nigeria’s significant potential, driven by its large population, and expressed confidence in parliamentary diplomacy as a tool to enhance bilateral ties and initiate new processes for collaboration.

“While we do not yet have a formal trade negotiation framework with Nigeria, we are here to explore possibilities and set the stage for future engagements,” Aeschi concluded.

[Opinion Nigeria]

The allure of journalism is undeniable. From the outside, it is a profession often seen as glamorous, replete with perks, fame, and a seemingly unending stream of exclusive invitations to high-profile events. Many believe that journalists enjoy a front-row seat to the world’s most significant happenings, rubbing shoulders with the powerful, and living a life of privilege.

Permit me to confess at this seeming embryonic stage of this piece that I was inspired to express this view as a way of achieving ‘emotional catharsis’ in order not to become a victim of depression as a result of pondering over the profession I am so passionately affiliated with. Reflecting on the weight of constant deadlines, the relentless pursuit of truth, and the personal sacrifices often overlooked by society, I realized the need to give voice to the untold stories of journalists who carry the burden of public trust while silently navigating their own struggles.

But beneath the surface lies a starkly different reality, one that is far from the romanticized notions often held by the public. The truth is that being a journalist, particularly in Nigeria, is a daily battle riddled with frustrations. When the layers are peeled back, it becomes evident that many journalists are overworked, underpaid, and perpetually misunderstood.

Against the backdrop of the foregoing facts, it is germane to opine that Journalism thrives on activity. Events, press conferences, breaking news, and interviews are the lifeblood of the profession. However, there are days, sometimes weeks, when nothing significant happens, no events to cover, no exclusive stories to chase, and no press invitations to attend.

During these lulls, a journalist’s life becomes an existential challenge. Without events, there is often no content to file, and without content, there is no justification for income. This “dry spell” is a common source of anxiety for journalists, especially freelancers, who rely on events and stories for their livelihood. The glamour fades quickly when you are left staring at an empty calendar, wondering how to make ends meet.

The financial frustrations of journalism cannot be overstated. Many people assume that journalists swim in money simply because their bylines appear in newspapers or their faces are seen on television. This assumption could not be further from the truth.

The harsh reality is that a significant number of journalists in Nigeria, especially those working for smaller or struggling media houses, are owed salaries for months on end. Some are not even on a salary at all, relying solely on commissions or allowances that are often irregular and insufficient. For others, the meager wages they earn are barely enough to cover transportation and basic living expenses.

The lack of advert revenue compounds the problem. In an industry heavily reliant on advertising to stay afloat, the dwindling budgets of advertisers leave media houses gasping for survival. The result? Layoffs, salary cuts, and an increased expectation for journalists to “hustle” for their survival.

Compounding these issues is the glaring lack of support from the government for the journalism sector. Over the years, the government has extended lifelines to various industries, agriculture, banking, aviation and even the entertainment sector. These interventions, often in the form of bailout funds, grants, or tax incentives, aim to revive struggling sectors and ensure their sustainability.

Yet, journalism, a profession that serves as the watchdog of democracy and a critical pillar of society, has been left to fend for itself. The sector has not received any meaningful government intervention, despite its crucial role in holding power to account and educating the public.

Instead, journalists often find themselves at odds with the government, battling censorship, harassment, and outright hostility. Rather than supporting the sector, authorities frequently view journalism as a threat to their power and work to undermine it. This lack of support leaves journalists and media organizations vulnerable, further compounding the financial and operational challenges they face.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of journalism is the lack of prospects for a fulfilling retirement. Unlike other professions where workers can look forward to pensions, gratuities, or even personal savings, most journalists face old age with uncertainty and anxiety.

The absence of financial security means many journalists cannot afford to retire, even when their health or age demands it. This has given rise to the phrase “Old soldier never die,” as journalists, much like retired soldiers, find themselves unable to leave the battlefield. They continue to write, report, and hustle for a living long after their peers in other professions have retired to a life of comfort.

This grim reality is not a result of poor planning or financial irresponsibility on the part of journalists but of systemic failures that leave them perpetually underpaid and unsupported. The profession, as noble as it is, does not guarantee a safety net for those who dedicate their lives to it.

One of the most painful misconceptions about journalism is the assumption that journalists are perpetual beggars. This perception stems from the unfortunate reality that many journalists, out of sheer necessity, must engage in practices that could be construed as beggarly.

In the absence of fair remuneration, some resort to collecting “brown envelopes” at events, a euphemism for monetary gifts given to journalists in exchange for favorable coverage. Others rely on freebies, patronage, or stipends from event organizers to cover basic expenses.

While these practices are far from ideal, they are often the result of a system that has failed its practitioners. The journalist who accepts a “transport allowance” after covering an event is not doing so out of greed or a lack of ethics but out of desperation. The system pushes them into a corner where survival becomes the primary goal, and professional ideals take a backseat. After all, it is a disservice to a Lagos-based Journalists who covered an event at Lekki in Victoria Island to trek back to his office in Ogba, Ikeja all in the name of being ethical. 

Another myth about journalism is the idea that it brings fame, and with fame, fortune. While it is true that some journalists achieve a level of recognition, it is often fleeting and rarely translates into financial security.

Fame in journalism is a double-edged sword. The recognition may open doors to certain opportunities, but it also exposes journalists to scrutiny, criticism, and sometimes even danger. Moreover, for every journalist who becomes a household name, there are hundreds who work tirelessly behind the scenes, unnoticed and uncelebrated.

Beyond the financial struggles, journalism takes a significant emotional toll on its practitioners. The constant pressure to break stories, meet deadlines, and deliver engaging content can lead to burnout. Coupled with the lack of appreciation and understanding from the public, it is no wonder many journalists feel disillusioned with the profession.

The frustration is exacerbated when journalists are criticized for doing their jobs. Accusations of bias, sensationalism, or incompetence often fly from all corners, even when the journalist has acted in good faith. It is a thankless job where the mistakes of a few tarnish the reputation of the many.

Given the foregoing, it is germane to opine that for journalism to regain its dignity, systemic changes are necessary. Media organizations must prioritize fair wages and timely payment of salaries. Advertisers should recognize the critical role of journalism in society and support it accordingly. Most importantly, the government must extend a lifeline to the sector, recognizing its indispensable role in the nation’s democratic framework. Policies to protect journalists from exploitation and harassment must be implemented and enforced.

Journalists, too, must embrace financial literacy and diversify their income streams to reduce dependence on media houses that fail to meet their needs.

Despite its many frustrations, journalism remains a noble profession, one that is indispensable to the functioning of any society. It is through the work of journalists that injustices are exposed, voices are amplified, and truths are brought to light.

But the profession cannot thrive on passion alone. It needs support, from the government, advertisers, media houses, and the public. It is time to dismantle the myths surrounding journalism and work collectively to restore its dignity. Only then can we ensure that the watchdogs of our democracy are not left to suffer in silence.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of OandO Plc, Wale Tinubu has disclosed that the oil firm is partnering with the Lagos State Government to deploy 5,000 electric buses for public transportation in the state.

Tinubu, said this in an interview with CNBC Africa, on the sidelines of the just concluded World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

He said the decision to invest in electric vehicles, particularly for public transportation, is informed by the company’s commitment to adopting cleaner energy solutions as part of its ‘just’ energy transition drive.

He makes a case for a ‘just transition’ over decarbonisation in Africa as the continent “is actually a victim of global warming,” bearing the brunt of climate change while contributing only about 3% of global emissions.

He stressed that Africa cannot decarbonise or abandon its large deposits of fossil fuels for clean energy sources while the majority of its citizens wallow in energy poverty.

“The arguments for decarbonisation are as important as the arguments for a just transition, and that transition has to recognize the fact that Africa has 45% of the people who have no access to electricity or energy products so our first step really must be to use what we need, which means that we need to use our gas as part of the energy mix to service the needs of our continent and that we need to do so as a transitional fuel whilst we work with an energy mix”

He noted that Oando, being a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is deploying EVs as a “carbon capture technique” to contribute to the global decarbonisation campaign.

“For every modicum of carbon we put into the economy, into the world and the environment, we are also taking that out by ensuring that we have carbon capture techniques as well as ensuring that our clean energy offering to as part of our products and services is high so we’re focusing a lot on e-vehicles,” he explained.

He disclosed that the company will deploy 5,000 electric buses to Lagos in its contribution to helping Nigeria transition its public transport system from combustion engines to electric vehicles.

“We are using gas as a transitional fuel to create electricity to generate the power to power buses, transport is 10% of global emissions so if we tackle public transport we would be able to reduce emissions by 5% almost immediately and the first step we’re doing now is also working on a public system of being able to transit the bus system in Nigeria from diesel or petrol to electric vehicles starting with a project which we’re working on with the Lagos state government as a pilot case where we expect to see up to 5,000 buses, e-buses being deployed in our streets.”  

Oando to deploy AI in next oil drilling campaign  

Tinubu also hinted at the potential deployment of artificial intelligence in the company’s next drilling campaign, as the company aims to enhance operational efficiency through technology.

He explained that the deployment of AI has become necessary to effectively utilise resources, and improve overall performance in Oando’s upcoming projects.

“It (AI) is a big game-changer. For example in our drilling operations, we have to make serious decisions which have a high impact on cost. And being able to throw in all the potential answers to our questions based on old experiences, by having a whole sequence of possibilities which can be taken through artificial intelligence. So it is something we are looking forward to deploying in our next drilling campaign,” he disclosed.

What you should know  

• In August 2024, Oando PLC acquired Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian oil giant, Eni in a deal worth $783 million. The acquisition increased Oando’s oil and gas reserves and doubled its oil and gas reserves.
• Earlier this year, the company announced that its subsidiary, Oando Energy Resources (OER), was awarded the operatorship of Block KON 13 in Angola’s Onshore Kwanza Basin.

[Nairametrics]

President Bola Tinubu’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to combat corruption, revitalize the economy, enhance national unity, bolster the judiciary’s independence and ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria.

Naija News reports that Vice President Kashim Shettima made this statement at the national conference on Monday in Abuja, which focused on reinforcing democracy in Nigeria.

The conference, titled ‘Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,’ was organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.

Represented by his Special Adviser on political matters, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Shettima acknowledged that while democracy may not be flawless, it remains the most effective form of governance when compared to others.

Shettima urged Nigerians to rally behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) government during this difficult yet ultimately fulfilling journey, emphasizing that the Bola Tinubu government is deeply invested in the quality of the democratic framework.

“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account for our stewardship in all matters our challenging democratic systems demand.

“I am convinced that Nigeria shall rise again, answer to its full potential and lead the way to a future that has learnt lessons from a difficult past into a world in which our country will be a key player, and our young will be active champions of a democratic system because it speaks to them.

“It has been said many times that democracy is an imperfect system, yet superior to all others.

“We will continue to seek to provide evidence of the values of the democratic systems by, among others, fixing major weaknesses of our economy, securing our communities, fighting corruption, supporting free and fair elections, strengthening the independence of the judiciary and improving national cohesion,” he said.

[NaijaNews]

The FCT Police Command says preliminary investigations have revealed that the abductors of family members in Chikakore community in Bwari area council, were unknown men who disguised as vigilantes wielding machetes and sticks.

Daily Trust had reported that a man, his wife and their son were abducted in the early hours of Monday.

A statement by the command spokeswoman, SP Adeh Josephine, said the suspects deceived the man into opening his house gate, after which they abducted him alongside three of his family members.

She said a neighbour, who attempted to intervene, sustained injuries during the attack and was rushed to Kubwa General Hospital for treatment.

She said the FCT Police Command received a distress call at about 1:00:am regarding a case of abduction and assault in the Chikakore community, adding that police operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that seven unknown men, disguised as vigilante members and armed with machetes and sticks, attacked the residence of the victim. The suspects deceived him the victim into opening his gate, after which they abducted him and three members of his family. A neighbour who attempted to intervene sustained injuries during the attack and was promptly rushed to Kubwa General Hospital for medical attention,” she said.

She, however, said that the police command had commenced a comprehensive search and rescue operation, aimed at rescuing the abducted victims safely and apprehending the perpetrators.

The command urged residents of the Chikakore community and the general public to remain calm and vigilant, calling on members of the public with useful information that could assist in the rescue of the victims to promptly report to the police.

She said the FCT Police Command can be reached via its emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883.

[DailyTrust]

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has opened up about his health since leaving office on May 29, 2023.

Buhari said his health has improved, adding that he looks better since leaving office in 2023.

While in office as President, Buhari was plagued by illness which led to him being flown abroad for medical attention.

He handed over to Bola Tinubu after serving his two terms as President.

Speaking at an All Progressives Congress, APC, stakeholders’ meeting at the Katsina State Government House, Buhari suggested that the complexities of being the President of Nigeria affected his health.

“Those outside the corridors of power do not understand the complexities and difficulties facing Nigeria.

“My health has improved since leaving office. People who visited me told me I look better than before.”

[DailyPost]