This assertion was made during the 2024 South-West Assembly of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held in Victoria Island, Lagos, and hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the party’s zonal coordinator.

The event was attended by several prominent APC figures, including former national chairman Chief Bisi Akande, former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and current governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), all of whom expressed their support for Tinubu and the party’s aspirations for the 2027 elections.

In a keynote address delivered by former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, Tinubu was praised as a “listening leader” dedicated to the progress of the nation.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to national development and progress.

Gbajabiamila reiterated the President’s resolve to make difficult decisions that would benefit the country, reinforcing the administration’s focus on long-term goals over immediate electoral ambitions.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Tinubu’s commitment to future generations may reshape the conversation around governance and development in Nigeria, reflecting a vision that transcends the upcoming electoral cycle.

Gbajabiamila said, “Mr. President has asked me to tell you that he is not thinking of the next election but the next generation.

“He has asked me to convey his message, that he knows he has taken a very tough decision. He sees the light at the end of the tunnel. The time will come when we will all thank him for the decision.

“Mr. President said I should let you know that he is not thinking of the next election but the next generation. For every moment in a country, a particular leader is produced for that time. This is the time to produce a leader that is courageous.”

He stressed that Tinubu is firmly committed to the well-being of all Nigerians, particularly the masses, adding that despite the challenges posed by tough reforms, Tinubu is motivated by a strong conviction to guide Nigeria through this transformative period.

He stressed that Tinubu feels the pain of the people’s struggles but remains steadfast in his belief in his tough decisions, driven by his conviction to lead the country through challenging times. Gbajabiamila also noted that while Tinubu holds the office of President, his political roots are firmly in the Southwest, making the assembly’s discussions especially significant.

“The challenges facing our country are vast and complex. But for those who know him, Tinubu has always been a leader with a deep love for the people. He is pained by their struggles, but he is determined to push forward with his vision for Nigeria’s future,” he added.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reinforced the importance of unity and cooperation within the Southwest, stating that the region’s collective efforts would be essential to harnessing its abundant resources and moving the country forward. He also stressed that the gathering was a way to reignite hope and uphold the values of “omoluabi” for the progress of both the region and the nation.

Sanwo-Olu called on all leaders and members to continue their support for Tinubu beyond the 2027 election and focus on the future.

Senate Majority Leader, Bamidele Opeyemi, highlighted the strategic importance of the South-West APC Caucus in the 10th Assembly, noting that 15 out of the 18 Senators from the region are from the APC, giving it substantial influence in national legislative matters.

He underscored the Caucus’s success in securing key leadership positions in the Senate and House of Representatives, which has allowed them to effectively represent the region’s interests.

Opeyemi also noted the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill, describing it as a necessary step for regional equity.

He credited the South-West Caucus for its stabilising role in the Senate, particularly in supporting Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Jubrin Barau, during recent controversies.

Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, in his keynote address, called for the replication of the South-West Caucus model at the state and local government levels, encouraging a united front within the APC to fulfil Tinubu’s “renewed hope agenda.” Fayemi expressed confidence that the party would remain strong and focused on delivering on its promises under Tinubu’s leadership.

“We cannot continue to rest on our oars as a party. I am convinced that APC will remain strong to accomplish the unfinished business of the renewed hope agenda of Mr President,” he said.

[Nairametrics]

As I walked into Lieutenant Colonel Gbolawole Majekodunmi’s (rtd) office in Idi-Araba, Lagos, I was struck by its simplicity. The walls were bare, except for a few framed photographs of his military days. He sat on an old chair, with a visage of a map of pain, reflecting the turmoil of his past. His brow furrowed and his lips pursed, as if the memories themselves were a physical burden. As we began to discuss his abrupt exit from the Nigerian Army, a profession he still holds dear to heart, Majekodunmi’s eyes clouded with a mix of pain and determination and his voice laced with a sense of loss and longing. With a career spanning decades, he had hoped to rise through the ranks to become a General. But his aspirations were viciously crushed when he was callously drummed out of service, on trumped-up charges that he later discovered were cunningly fabricated to thwart his ascension to the coveted position of Military Administrator (equivalent of state governor under military regime).

Journey to the Army

He started the interview with Sunday Vanguard with the story of his journey into the Army. His words: “As a young boy, I attended Baptist Academy in Lagos. Then, at Oyingbo bus stop, I always saw Land Rovers carrying officers in their well-starched uniforms. I was immediately drawn to their professionalism and knew I wanted to join the Army. This motivation led me to write the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) examination, which I passed. I was called for an interview and subsequently offered a place at the NDA. However, my mother, a rich business woman, had different plans for me. She wanted me to study Pharmacy in America, and she had the resources to make it happen.

But my father, a civil servant in Kaduna, insisted that I joined the NDA. He even threatened to disown me if I didn’t report to the academy. My love for the Army uniform and fear of my father’s wrath led me to choose the NDA over America. I joined the NDA Regular Combatant Course 13; we commenced training on January 2, 1973 and I went on to have a distinguished military career. I was posted to Infantry, then changed to Engineers. The military sent me to Canada and America for advanced training. I also attended a degree course in Pakistan. Throughout my service, I was known for discipline and professionalism, which earned me the respect of my Commanders. I served as Brigade Major, the nerve center of every Brigade, and was sought after by Commanders who valued my expertise. In those days, the motivation to join the NDA was genuine, and politicians’ influence was minimal. Discipline was paramount, and young officers were driven by a sense of duty and honor.

However, times have changed, and today’s young officers often have ulterior motives for joining the NDA. Some are driven by ambition, greed, or a desire for power. The system has changed, and discipline is no longer the cornerstone of the NDA. I fear for the future of our beloved Army if this trend continues”.

Back to Nigeria

Majekodunmi inhaled deeply, his gaze intensifying, as he resumed his account: “Upon returning to Nigeria, I was posted to 3 Armoured Division, Jos, Plateau State where I served as the Cantonment Maintenance Officer, while General Olanrewaju was the General Officer Commanding, GOC. During a mini-maintenance conference, General Olanrewaju offered me a bicycle for maintenance tasks within the Cantonment, but I declined, preferring to use my Mercedes- Benz car which I brought from Pakistan. This seemingly innocuous exchange sparked General Olanrewaju’s anger and he admonished me, threatening at the same time to expel me from the Army if I didn’t ‘shape up.’

My Commander then, Colonel Idubueze, sensing my discomfort, intervened and offered to accept the bicycle on my behalf. However, the damage was done, and General Olanrewaju’s displeasure towards me was palpable. This incident marked the beginning of a downward spiral in my relationship with General Olanrewaju, culminating in my eventual posting out of the Command to the Nigerian Training and Doctrine Command in Minna, Niger State. In Minna, I served without incident until my subsequent posting to Ibadan, Oyo State, where a significant incident occurred in 1993. Under the command of the late General Aziza, GOC 2 Division, I received appreciation for my dedication and hard work. General Aziza even sponsored my wife’s pilgrimage through Lagos State, a gesture that unfortunately fueled jealousy among some colleagues”.

Maruti, the point of contention

He paused at this point as his phone’s insistent ringing shattered the air. His eyes darted towards it with a gaze that pierced the screen like a dagger, before refocusing on me. Slowly, he continued the traumatic event that shattered his 20-year military legacy, leaving scars that continued to throb and pulsate like a raw wound: “Later, the Maruti incident occurred.

Maruti was a small utility vehicle, an Indian-Suzuki jeep used for utility services. It was given to me by the Army to be working with. The mechanic was bringing it to me in Lagos from Ibadan because he just repaired it. And the driver was not around, so I was afraid that probably the Maruti would need to be driven by a technician. I told the mechanic to bring a driver and also come with my identity ID card to meet me in Lagos. I told them my ID card was inside the pigeon hole, that in case anyone stopped them on the road, they should show it that Colonel Majekodunmi sent them. That was the mistake I made because the Maruti was intercepted at the toll gate in Ibadan. I made such minor infractions which, normally, under normal circumstances, should have been an office issue to be handled by the late General Aziza. I believe he was used as a pawn on the issue. Otherwise he didn’t give me admonition; he did not give me warning”.

The accusation

A look of haunted introspection crossed his face, his eyes sunken, his features etched with the weight of a thousand unspoken words. His voice cracked with emotion, a heartwrenching whisper that conveyed the depth of his pain, as if every syllable was a tear shed for what could never be undone. Continuing slowly, Majekodunmi narrated: ”I was accused of stealing a Maruti and my ID card. I tried to see the late General Aziza who was the GOC 2 Mechanised Division when I learnt I would be court-martialed.

But my efforts were unsuccessful. I reached out to several people to beg my GOC on my behalf, including Papa Adeyemo, the Kabiyesi of Ibadan, Alhaji Jimoh Garuba, and the Alake (of Egbaland). Additionally, Justice Oguntade and Chief Bukola Okunowo intervened, begging Aziza to show mercy. Despite these efforts, Aziza ordered the court martial, which left me feeling hopeless and demoralized. The excuse he allegedly gave was that he had sentenced me to two-and-ahalf years in prison, but he wasn’t the judge and didn’t preside over the court martial. He also allegedly instructed the President of the court to sentence me, which was unusual. I was not supposed to be kept in the other ranks’ guard room after trial without confirmation from the appropriate supreme authority, but they put me there anyway.

The conditions were deplorable – the room was smelly and leaking from rain. I met others there, like Major Akinlade, who was accused of an affair, and Major Emelike. I was confused and wondered what was going on. I spent a month in that guard room without committing any major offense. I didn’t sleep with anyone’s wife and I didn’t plan a coup or steal anything significant to have warranted such treatment. In the past, when General Danjuma was the Chief of the Army Staff, the Chief of the Army Staff would review the judgment of the court martial case legally and make a justified decision. However, in my case, it was a satanic conspiracy between some senior officers against me and I spent three months in prison. The court martial verdict left me feeling utterly hopeless, and it took a significant toll on my spirit. I spent close to two-and-a-half months in Agodi Prison, Ibadan, and, even after my release, I struggled with feelings of hopelessness for four years. Despite the challenges in my marriage, I felt like I’d hit rock bottom. It was as if the second chapter of my life had been turned upside down, and I was struggling to find purpose and meaning again”.

Drama in court

His eyes would occasionally flash with a hint of anger, but it was quickly replaced by a sense of calm, as if he had long since made peace with his past. He narrated further, ”Before the court-martial began, I visited Colonel Alli, the Commanding Officer of the Special Investigation Panel, who later became the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service. I requested for a lawyer, Giwa Amu, who was 2ic to Ali. I had to meet the Provost Marshal, General Mujakpero. I asked him to allow a Military Police officer to be my lawyer, and he agreed. I wrote an application, and Ali approved it. Giwa Amu was my sent ‘messiah’. When the court martial commenced, I was sitting down facing the panel. Giwa Amu came to whisper in my ear that I should accept charge one; that I was guilty, and also accept charge two, stealing the Maruti that brought me to the venue, and that my ID card was stolen. I agreed.

But when the arraignment started and my charges were read, Giwa Amu had a change of heart. He rushed to tell me again to say I was not guilty. If he hadn’t done that, I would have accepted the charges, including stealing the Maruti. They had tricked Giwa Amu into thinking they wouldn’t do anything to me, but the spirit of God intervened, telling me not to admit guilt. If I had accepted that I was guilty of stealing the Maruti and my ID card, there was no way I would have won that case. The same Maruti that brought me in front of the Officers’ Mess, where the trial was held, was the same vehicle they said I stole. They commenced my case at 10 a.m. and finished it the next day. The next day was the confirmation. I had met the person in charge of the court, now late, before the trial. He told me not to worry, but unknown to me, they had already instructed him on how to handle my case. It was a set-up”.

Appeal case

His voice was a low, raspy growl at this point, with a sound that seemed to scrape against the inside of his throat, as if the words themselves were a physical torment he could hardly bear to utter. He went on: “Even when I met an officer in the Army Legal Department, he advised me to forget about the case because three senior officers who were instrumental to my woes were in the former Head of State, late Sani Abacha’s kitchen cabinet. However, after four years of being laid off from the Nigerian Army, someone suggested I appealed the case. I went to the Court of Appeal, where my father had worked as a civilian executive officer. When I arrived at the court, accompanied by my lawyer, the Registrar told me to go upstairs and narrate the case to the judge.

But my lawyer refused to go with me because he said it was unethical for a lawyer to be seen in the chamber with a judge. Eventually, I mustered the courage to knock on the judge’s door. To my surprise, the judge recognized me and asked about the case. I burst into tears and asked if he knew about it, he said ‘yes’. Just then, Aribisala, the son of a legal icon, walked in and offered to handle my case for free. He wanted to help me and also gain experience for his SAN qualification. I gratefully accepted his offer. But Justice Oguntade refused, insisting rather that my lawyer should handle the case.

And to God be the glory, I think after a year into the Appeal, I was discharged and acquitted by the Court of Appeal. In fact, in the January 2004 Nigerian Army Law Publication on Majekodunmi versus Nigerian Army, Justice Oguntade of the Court of Appeal stated: ‘It is really worrying that in a case as plain as this, when the observers of elementary principle of justice ought to have led the General Court Martial to return a verdict of not guilty, the General Court Martial found the appellant guilty; in the process, the career prospects of the appellant, a Lieutenant Colonel at the time of his trial, were needlessly ruined. Perhaps it is not out of place to say here that those called upon to conduct these trials should very carefully consider the ingredients of an offence under the Armed Forces Act before railroading their colleagues into prison and ruination in very undeserving situation’. With the court discharging and acquitting me, I approached the Army authorities with the verdict. They gave me compulsory retirement. But I was not satisfied with compulsory retirement. So, I met General Dambazau, who was the Minister of Internal Affairs. He spoke to the Chief of the Army Staff, Buratai, who called me for an interview, I wrote again, and they converted it to voluntary retirement”.

Military Administrator’s dream

At this point, Majekodunmi’s face convulsed in a storm of self-reproach, his features twisted in a grimace of anguish, as if the weight of the action was crushing him. He recounted: “The most important aspect of this experience was my naivety and the external factors that played a role. I realised after I left the prison that my offence was because I had approached some persons, indicating my interest to be Military Administrator. I didn’t know that these same people had somebody else who was also interested in the position. It wasn’t until after I left prison and was at home that I realized this. They announced the change of Military Administrators and mentioned that person’s name. That was when I remembered that a former top security official who became an Oba asked me who was senior between me and that person who was appointed Military Administrator. I then understood that the former top security big wig and a former top military senior officer who had shown apparent animosity towards me were acquainted with the family of the officer who was appointed MILAD, and therefore wanted him for the position”.

Lies

At this point, we had to pause for him to catch his breath, after speaking for long. In this fleeting moment, his face twisted in a tortured grimace, as if the memories of deceitful blows from those he trusted were physically pummeling him. When we resumed discussion, he said: “To further nail me, a colleague told me that during a debate on who would become the next Military Administrator, someone in The Presidency said I was from Abeokuta, Ogun State, and that I came into the Army through Lagos State illegally. However, everyone knew I was from Lagos State. One of the top military officers behind my ordeal knew me from our time in Pakistan or India and knew that my family, Majekodunmi, is from Lagos State. What pained me was that as a fellow Yoruba, if there were no political undertones or negativity, he would have granted me an audience to see him when I sought to see him to intervene in the court martial issue.

Admonition

“Indeed, the lesson from my experience is huge. I learnt one should not rely solely on humans or on the arm of flesh, as Shakespeare says, ‘There’s no art to find the mind’s construction in the face.’ A person’s true intentions can be difficult to discern, and they may not be trustworthy. I learned this lesson personally. Second lesson is that I was naive in my a p p r o a c h , broadcasting my intentions widely. But glory be to God; after my incarceration, I turned to God and pursued a pastoral course at the Redeemed Church. I also went to the Mountain of Fire Ministries and learned that forces of darkness can destroy someone. I am sharing this to warn future generations to depend on God for solutions to their problems.

Additionally, I want the Nigerian Army to know that I’ve worked under tough Commanders who recognized my dedication and commitment as an officer. Commanders sought me out to work with them, including General Garuba Mohammed, former Minister of Works, who gave me an excellent report. In his commendation note on me, he wrote, ‘I have no reason not to recommend this officer for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, which is long overdue’, (reading from a document he collected from a pile of files on a table)”. With a heavy heart and a hint of humility, he continued his tale in a voice laced with a deep sense of regret and a longing for spiritual guidance, “Perhaps, if I were more grounded in biblical teachings or scripture, I would have understood the significance of sharing my ambition with those I did.

But the whole thing was a blessing in disguise. I recall that the most brilliant student in our Course was Major Akinyemi, brother of Prof Akinyemi. He excelled at Sandhurst, winning multiple awards as the Best Military Cadet, Officer, and personnel. However, after returning to Nigeria, he was involved in two coups and was eventually killed. He was imprisoned and allegedly injected with a harmful substance. If I had been accused of being involved in a coup, I would not be alive today. I now appreciate the value of prayers and the guidance of scripture.

Electricity is the backbone of any modern economy, fueling innovation, industry, and social development. Across Africa, countries such as Ghana, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya have managed to provide their citizens with more regular and affordable electricity, creating an environment where businesses thrive, and homes function without the worry of frequent power outages or exorbitant costs. These nations have set an example of what is possible when a country’s energy sector is properly managed and maintained.

Nigeria, with its massive population and wealth of natural resources, should have been one of the first to achieve this feat. Yet, despite its potential, Nigeria remains stuck in an energy crisis that leaves much to be desired. Ostensibly to catch up with some African countries which offer regular and affordable electricity to their citizens, Nigeria has in recent months introduced a new electricity tariff structure, with bands such as A, B, and C, resulting in more consistent power supply. However, this has come at a high cost, as affordability has become a pressing concern for many consumers.

This begs the question: “If smaller African nations with fewer resources have achieved affordable and regular electricity, why has Nigeria, the giant of Africa, failed to do the same?”

For instance, Ghana is often hailed as one of Africa’s success stories in electricity provision. After undergoing severe power crises in the past, the country implemented structural reforms that have significantly improved its electricity generation and distribution. Ghana has invested heavily in its energy sector, diversifying its energy sources to include hydropower, natural gas, and solar power. Today, the country boasts one of the most reliable electricity grids in West Africa, with over 85% of its population having access to electricity.

More impressively, the cost of electricity in Ghana remains relatively affordable compared to Nigeria. This is because of the government’s proactive approach in subsidizing electricity for lower-income households while ensuring a consistent supply. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) also ensures transparency and accountability in its operations, which helps to maintain consumer trust.

In a similar vein, Kenya has emerged as a leader in renewable energy, making significant strides in achieving regular and affordable electricity for its citizens. The East African nation has focused on geothermal energy, which accounts for over 45% of its electricity generation. Kenya’s investment in renewable energy has not only improved the reliability of electricity supply but has also driven down costs, making it one of the most affordable in Africa.

In rural areas, the government has implemented off-grid solar systems to ensure that even remote communities can access power. This strategic approach to energy diversification has allowed Kenya to achieve almost 80% electricity coverage, with the goal of reaching 100% by 2030. As a result, Kenya has become a benchmark for other African nations, including Nigeria that are struggling with electricity provision.

While South Africa is currently experiencing electricity challenges due to aging infrastructure and the country’s reliance on coal, it remains one of the few African countries that has historically provided affordable and regular electricity. For decades, South Africa’s electricity system was one of the most robust on the continent, delivering power to over 85% of its population at relatively low costs.

Despite recent issues with load shedding, South Africa’s state-owned utility, Eskom, still manages to keep electricity rates affordable for most citizens. The South African government is now working to diversify its energy sources by investing in renewables like solar and wind power to ensure that its citizens can continue to enjoy affordable and regular electricity in the future.

Egypt is another African country that has made remarkable strides in its energy sector. The North African giant invested billions of dollars into modernizing its power grid, which includes one of the largest solar parks in the world at Benban. Egypt has also successfully reformed its energy pricing system, ensuring that electricity remains affordable for its citizens.

In addition to modernizing its infrastructure, Egypt has reduced energy subsidies over time in a way that balances affordability with sustainability. This ensures that while the government reduces its financial burden, the cost of electricity remains within reach for both households and businesses. Egypt’s commitment to renewable energy has not only made it a leader in Africa but has also helped stabilize its electricity supply, achieving almost universal access.

Nigeria’s electricity sector tells a starkly different story. Despite being Africa’s largest economy and boasting enormous reserves of oil and natural gas, the country has struggled for decades to provide stable and affordable electricity to its citizens. The introduction of tariff bands like A, B, and C has led to more consistent supply for some areas, but this improvement has been overshadowed by soaring costs, which have made electricity unaffordable for many Nigerians.

Given the foregoing situation in Nigeria’s energy sector, not a few people have commented that the reasons for Nigeria’s ongoing electricity woes are multifaceted, blaming the country for so much dependency on fossil fuels. Their reasoning cannot in any way be faulted as it is crystal clear that Nigeria’s heavy reliance on natural gas and fossil fuels for electricity generation makes the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy prices. When the price of gas rises, so does the cost of electricity generation, leading to higher tariffs for consumers. This reliance on a single source of energy also limits Nigeria’s ability to diversify and stabilize its energy supply.

Also been mentioned for the umpteenth times as one of the reasons for poor and costly electricity supply is poor Infrastructure. The foregoing view can be buttressed against the backdrop of the outdated power infrastructure in the country; even as the infrastructure is poorly maintained leading to frequent breakdowns and inefficiencies. In fact, transmission and distribution networks are plagued with energy losses, which further contribute to the high cost of electricity. Without significant investment in upgrading these systems, Nigeria will continue to struggle with both regularity and affordability.

In fact, not a few people’s views have either being read or heard in the media saying that corruption has been a major stumbling block in Nigeria’s energy sector. As gathered, they often say that the privatization of the power sector, which was meant to bring about efficiency and improvement, has been hampered by vested interests and mismanagement, resulting to a system where power distribution companies (DisCos) often underperform, leaving consumers with erratic service at exorbitant prices.

For years, successive Nigerian governments have promised reforms in the power sector, but these promises have rarely been fulfilled. Political leaders often shy away from the difficult decisions needed to overhaul the system, such as cracking down on corrupt practices or fully liberalizing the energy market. The absence of strong political will to tackle these issues head-on has left Nigeria lagging behind its African counterparts.

At this juncture, it is expedient to ask, “Is There a Way Out?” Absolutely, Nigeria has the potential to provide both affordable and regular electricity. If smaller African nations with fewer resources have succeeded, there is no reason Nigeria cannot follow suit. The solution lies in a combination of key steps that cut across energy diversification, investment in infrastructure, government accountability and 4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

Given the foregoing, it is expedient to opine that Nigeria must prioritize the diversification of its energy sources by investing in renewable energy such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Renewables offer a more sustainable and cheaper alternative to fossil fuels and will reduce the country’s vulnerability to global energy price fluctuations.

In a similar vein, there is an urgent need to overhaul Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure. Upgrading transmission and distribution networks will reduce energy losses and improve efficiency. This requires significant investment from both the government and private sector, but the long-term benefits will far outweigh the costs.

Still in a similar vein, the Nigerian government must demonstrate the political will to hold DisCos accountable for their performance. Strengthening regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to ensure transparency and fairness in tariff pricing is critical to restoring consumer trust.

Added to the foregoing steps, Nigeria should explore public-private partnerships to finance energy projects and build more power plants. By working with foreign investors and multilateral agencies, Nigeria can access the funding needed to improve its energy sector and provide affordable electricity to its citizens.

In fact, the examples of Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt show that regular and affordable electricity is not a pipe dream, it is achievable. Nigeria, with its abundant natural resources, has the potential to lead the continent in energy provision. However, without the necessary reforms, investments, and political will, the country will remain in the dark, while other African nations continue to shine.

It is time for Nigeria to harness its full potential and deliver what its people deserve: reliable, affordable electricity that powers growth and development. If other African countries can do it, why can’t Nigeria?

On October 5, 2011, the world lost Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple Inc., at age 56 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Jobs left an indelible mark on multiple industries, transforming the way people interact with technology through devices like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. His influence extended far beyond consumer electronics, leaving a legacy that continues to shape modern life.

Born in 1955 in San Francisco, Jobs was adopted by Paul and Clara Jobs and raised in the heart of Silicon Valley. Although he dropped out of college after one semester, his journey would soon see him co-found Apple with his friend Steve Wozniak in 1976, in his parents’ garage. With no formal training in technology or business, Jobs possessed a unique blend of vision and intuition. He believed that computers could evolve from niche tools into devices integral to everyday life, a belief that became the cornerstone of Apple’s success.

Under Jobs’ leadership, Apple introduced the Apple II, one of the first personal computers, and later the revolutionary Macintosh in 1984, which introduced a graphical user interface that forever changed personal computing. Even after his departure from Apple in 1985, Jobs continued to leave his mark. He founded NeXT, a company whose technology would play a critical role in the development of the World Wide Web, and acquired Pixar, which went on to redefine the animation industry with “Toy Story” and other classics.

When Jobs returned to Apple in 1997, the company was struggling. Through his unmatched leadership and relentless pursuit of perfection, he turned Apple into one of the world’s most valuable companies. Products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad became cultural phenomena, seamlessly integrating into the daily lives of millions of people across the globe. Jobs’ genius was not just in the products themselves, but in understanding how people would use them, and how they would impact culture and communication.

Despite his medical struggles, including a pancreatic tumor surgery and a liver transplant, Jobs’ commitment to his vision remained unwavering until the end. On August 24, 2011, just six weeks before his passing, he stepped down as CEO of Apple, leaving behind a company that embodied his passion for innovation.

Steve Jobs’ journey on Earth was one that left a monumental landmark. His life’s work was not only about creating products; it was about reshaping entire industries and redefining how we engage with the world. As his biographer Walter Isaacson noted, “Jobs was the greatest business executive of our era, the one most certain to be remembered a century from now.” His legacy lives on through the millions of lives touched by his innovations, his bold leadership, and his uncompromising vision of the future.

In the annals of history, Jobs stands alongside great innovators like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, a true testament to his transformative influence on technology and culture. His earthly journey, though cut short, continues to inspire generations.

Steve Jobs’ journey on this earth is one that future generations should not only admire but also strive to emulate. His life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a fearless willingness to take risks, and an unwavering belief in the power of innovation to transform the world. Jobs’ approach to life serves as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs and visionaries. Despite lacking formal technical education and facing numerous professional setbacks, he possessed an uncanny ability to see opportunities where others saw obstacles. His resilience in the face of adversity, from being ousted from Apple in 1985 to fighting health challenges later in life, stands as a testament to his strength of character. His story encourages individuals to persist through failure and keep their focus on a higher purpose.

Moreover, Jobs’ journey highlights the importance of following one’s passion with dedication and discipline. He was not just a businessman or a technologist; he was an artist who approached technology with a deep appreciation for design and user experience. His ability to merge functionality with aesthetics revolutionized the tech world, turning Apple products into cultural icons. This dedication to creating products that people love, not just use, is a lesson that transcends industries and professions. Jobs taught us that true success lies in the impact we make on others’ lives, and that achieving this requires a combination of passion, vision, and the courage to challenge the status quo. His earthly journey, though finite, offers a lasting guide for anyone looking to leave a meaningful mark on the world.

A woman uses a dash cart during her grocery-shopping at a Whole Foods store as Amazon launches smart shopping carts at Whole Foods stores in San Mateo, California, United States on February 25, 2024. The smart shopping cart makes grocery shopping quicker by allowing customers to scan products right into their cart as they shop and then skip the checkout line.

Tayfun Coskun | Anadolu | Getty Images

‘The hardest problem to solve’

Jon Jenkins, Amazon’s former vice president of Just Walk Out technology, gives a tour of the mock convenience store where the company tests its cashierless checkout system in Seattle, Washington, on August 22, 2024.

CNBC

Inside the lab

Amazon in September announced several new third-party Just Walk Out stores at universities and sports stadiums.

CNBC

Google just made your Android smartphone a lot more resilient against theft. No, not physically, but if and when the phone is stolen, the new “theft detection lock” ensures the personal data is safe and that the phone is of no use to the thief.

The new feature, currently rolling out to Android smartphone users in the US, was spotted on the recently introduced Xiaomi 14T Pro and was first reported by Mishaal Rahman on Threads. Google is rolling out three major components of theft-related features: theft detection lock, offline device lock, and remote lock.

For many of their nearly 10 years as romantic partners, Irina Bolgar said, she and Pavel Durov enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle. The extravagance grew as Telegram, the messaging app Durov created, became a worldwide hit and cemented him as a billionaire and one of the world’s most powerful tech executives.

Paul Ibe, the spokesman of the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, said on Saturday the Rivers State local government election may usher in a new dispensation of better polls without police.

He was reacting to the withdrawal of police from the Rivers local government election.

Posting on X, Ibe wrote: “The withdrawal of the @PoliceNG from today’s #RiversLGAPolls2024 will confirm to the whole world the anti-democratic elements and institutions in Nigeria.

“The outcome of the election may usher in a new regime in which our elections are better off without the police.”

Reports had it that voting went on peacefully in the local government elections in Rivers State despite the police barring officers from providing security for the exercise.

Election officials were seen conducting accreditation and voting simultaneously at a polling unit in Ikoku Area, Units 14 and 15 in Port Harcourt City Ward 18.

Yesterday, the Rivers State Police Command announced its withdrawal from the local government election.

Spokesman of the state police command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement titled “Proposed October 5th, 2024 Local Government Chairman Election,” confirmed receiving a restraining order preventing them from providing security during the LGA elections.

The command also said it was aware of the 30th September 2024 Court judgement from the Federal High Court Abuja, which bars the Force from participating in the election.

[DailyPost]