BBNaija Season 9 winner Kellyrae has shared his journey through personal struggles and his bond with his wife, Kassia, in a heartfelt interview with Chude. 

Kellyrae disclosed that before entering the reality show, he had lost all his money to betting, which plunged him into depression and overwhelming guilt. 

During his darkest moments, he credited Kassia for standing by him and offering unwavering support that helped him regain hope and strength. 

Kellyrae’s story highlights the resilience and the power of a supportive partnership. 

He said: “I had some money, but because I wanted more, the money was not enough; I started gambling with it and then lost it all. I was depressed. Every night, I was awake, thinking. Then she was the one who came to my rescue.” 

However, he also considered breaking up with her due to his inability to provide adequately for her. 

“I was thinking one day; I called her and said, let’s just break up. I feel I don’t have what it takes to really care for you because I feel guilty most of the time that there are things I’m supposed to be doing,” he said. 

The reality TV star also discussed his time in the BBNaija house, admitting that he kept his marriage a secret but remained true to himself throughout the show. 

“Even if you lie on your bed for the rest of your life, trouble will still come. I think I prefer the trouble that comes with N60 million. The only thing I had to fake was that I was in the house with my wife; every other thing, I was just being myself,” he added. 

[TheNation]

Underlying the definitions of bullying in dictionaries is power imbalance. To bully someone is to direct aggressive behaviour at them, to intimidate or threaten them, to act cruelly towards someone, or to coerce them. For one to do these, there must be a power dynamic that makes the person at the receiving end vulnerable. Such a tilt of strength can either be embodied by an individual with a disproportionate physical or social power or a group of individuals converging on a weaker party to diminish them. Since the word “cyber-” got appended to bullying in Nigeria, it has acquired a new meaning that has virtually subverted the logic of power that underlies it.

Now, and no thanks to the police’s tendency to meddle in every matter in which a “big man” cries about being inconvenienced with public embarrassment activated by a previously unknown entity, a supposed victim of bullying these days is frequently someone who can commandeer the resources of the state. If you have enough clout to send the police on your errands, can you really claim to be a victim of cyberbullying?

Let us begin with the now infamous case of the singer Burna Boy (Damini Ogulu) at whose behest a singer cum comedian Darlington Okoye (Speed Darlington) has been reportedly incarcerated for months. As the story is told—and which Burna Boy has not denied—Speed Darlington is in jail because he taunted Burna Boy about his association with disgraced artiste Sean Combs (aka P Diddy). In December, the court ruled that his arrest and detention constituted “a gross violation” of his constitutional rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement. Despite a direct court order, the police have refused to release him. That makes you wonder, is Burna Boy really a “victim” if the police can sacrifice institutional integrity for his sake?

Meanwhile, the same insinuation Speed Darlington made about Burna Boy has been hurled at several US celebrities who as much as took a photograph with P Diddy. None has asked a man to be incarcerated indefinitely because they got butthurt. Please note that these are people whose reputation far outpaces that of an arriviste like Burna Boy. Yet, they will not take that track because they are self-assured enough to understand the price of celebrity. Unlike the quintessential African “big man”, they are also sensible enough to realise that power should have a more productive function than to abuse others cheaply.

Then, there is the case of Olamide Thomas, who was arrested and incarcerated for cursing the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu. This was another case of the police torturing logic just to satisfy a big man with small feelings. They claimed the curse “placed Seyi in fear of death, violence or bodily harm”. That would be hilarious if were not tragic. How does the law assess the effectiveness of a curse? If curses worked the way people who watch too many Nollywood films think they do, something should have happened to Seyi long ago, given that people have been cursing his father (and their family) since 1999! I am genuinely curious as to why Seyi would be so unsettled by curses that it would compel the police (and the court) to overreact to superstition.

Add to that the ongoing case of bloggers, Precious Eze, Olawale Olurotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa and Seun Odunlami, hauled before the Federal High Court in Lagos for “acts of cyberbullying” (some reports describe the allegation as “cyberstalking”) against the CEO of Guaranty Trust Holdings, Segun Agbaje, when they published uncomplimentary remarks about him. I am by no means defending those bloggers (who have long pulled down the publications anyway), but accusations of nepotism, power play, and self-enrichment are so commonplace in Nigeria that accusing a CEO will not elicit as much as a gasp. They certainly do not warrant holding people in custody for upward of three months. The police cannot fight cyberbullying with judicial bullying, sorry.

Even more laughable is the amended charge against them that states their alleged offence can potentially cause “a breakdown of law and order in the Nigerian banking system”? How can anyone cause a breakdown in law and order within the banking system when that sphere is not an extricable part of regular life? The officers who came up with that idea will surely have a profitable gig doing comedies in their police uniform. If they must know, the operational deficiencies and the decline of the high standards for which GTB used to be known (and renowned) will result in “a breakdown of law and order in the Nigerian banking system” faster than the opinion of a blogger no one would have otherwise read.

Add to the growing list of police overreach the case of Abraham Daniel, a former minister at Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Abuja. He was recently summoned for questioning regarding an “investigation” into “cyberbullying”’ following his accusations against his former principal, Pastor Paul Enenche, for reneging their “gentleman’s agreement.” While the police summons appeared civil enough, it is still intimidating, especially given that the issue at stake is a matter of personal differences between two individuals who should resolve their matter privately. If one party can get the police to act on his behalf even in a petty issue, can he still be “cyberbullied”?

These cases are worrisome because they show a growing pattern of judicial abuse that began under the previous administration and is becoming gradually routinised. Do not forget that under alleged civilian President, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), the DSS arraigned a man for treason in the courts for, among other spurious offences, insulting the President. Buhari’s wife also had a young man stalked, arrested, detained, and later charged to court for basically calling her “fat”. What astounded me most was that the police spent six months tracking the guy before they apprehended him. If they demonstrate a similar diligence toward their responsibilities to Nigeria, the country will not be so insecure.

Look at all the spheres all the supposed victims of cyberbullying represent—popular culture, politics, industry, and religion—and understand why this pattern is worrisome. Figures representative of virtually every sphere of our socio-political life are one-trick ponies whose only recourse is to use their clout with the police to perpetrate abuse. That is not good for society by any measure. Even worse, at the rate the police are going with their trivialisation of the law by filing sensational charges over minor issues, they will turn every rabble-rouser into an anti-establishment hero. We should properly delineate what constitutes “cyberbullying” (or “cyberstalking”) so that it stops being exploited by anyone who has some money in their pocket and can purchase justice.

No matter what you think or how you feel about any of those people standing trial for cyberbullying, we should not be so numb that we fail to ask if the issue is about legal protections against malevolent speech or just an increasing pattern of intolerance for human rights. When people who have commensurate power say nasty things against each other on social media, the police never swoop in to “investigate”. Regardless of how vicious the exchange by the warring parties gets, the police never take sides to lament “injurious speech” that therefore warrants filing charges of cyberbullying, cyberstalking or even criminal defamation. It is when the matter becomes a case of the top dog vs an underdog that they become animated. Their conduct calls into question the whole idea of “bullying” as an act of aggression and intimidation. If bullying (cyber- or wherever else it takes place) is about a powerful person preying on a weaker party, what constitutes it when the supposed victim is the one who can afford to hire the police?

Despite the Federal Government’s multi-billion-naira border surveillance systems launched in 2019, illegal migrants, some of whom have been identified as bandits, terrorists and kidnappers, continue to cross into Nigeria from the Republics of Benin, Chad, Niger, Mali and Cameroon.

This is as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said e-border surveillance is now being mounted across the nation’s borders with its neighbouring countries.

“As we speak, more than half of our borders have been automated. There are visuals, and a lot of processes going on now. So, effectively, there is e-border surveillance now in our borders.

“By October (2024), we will be done with the first phase of the e-border surveillance project, including our marine borders. Now, we have the command and control for air and land. You cannot secure your borders effectively without technology,” Tunji-Ojo said in a live national television programme in May 2024.

At the launch of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex in early December 2024, the minister said about 250 trained Immigration Service personnel run 24-hour shifts at the e-border control centre.

However, some foreigners still crossed to Nigeria from the Republic of Benin through the Baruten/Kaiama border posts despite the closure of the border by the FG.

Checks by The PUNCH from residents of border communities in the Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara state revealed that illegal immigrants still crossed the border into the country daily.

The immediate past chairman of Baruten Local Government Council, Abdulrasheed Abdullahi, who spoke with one of our correspondents, said that citizens of the Benin Republic are still migrating into the country through several illegal routes.

Abdullahi said, “Although the border posts have been closed since 2020 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to beef up security, the border closure has not stopped citizens of Benin Republic who are our neighbours from coming into the country.”

“The e-border control system installed to stop the illegal immigrants from coming to the country had not stopped their citizens from entering Nigeria,” Abdullahi, who ended his tenure as the council chairman in September 2024, added.

The Federal Executive Council approved N52bn for the e-border surveillance system in 2019 to monitor and provide real-time information from major border posts nationwide.

However, the project faced delays due to funding challenges and did not commence until 2022. Nigeria’s extensive borders, covering approximately 5,330 kilometres, have numerous illegal entry points and present ongoing security challenges.

The Nigeria Immigration Service says it has since deployed advanced e-border solutions to over 80 crossing points nationwide, marking the project’s first phase. It says the e-border system offers real-time, 24/7 monitoring and intelligence, enabling better tracking and management of border activities.

Speaking in a telephone with The PUNCH on Monday, the Emir of Yashikira, a border community in Baruten LGA, Umoru Usman, said foreigners cross into the locality daily.

Usman explained, “Despite the border closure and the e-border control system installed by the Federal Government to stop illegal immigration into the country, which are all moves by the government to ensure security, the people from the Benin Republic who are our neighbours still crossed the border. Though we cannot give the figure, people are still crossing the borders on a daily basis.”

When reached for the comments, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kenneth Udo, did not respond to calls to his mobile line. Also, text messages sent to his mobile and WhatsApp number were not answered as of this report.

Meanwhile, the Eselu of Iselu, Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, on Monday, said that the purported N9bn e-border control system project initiated under the Buhari government has failed to check the influx of illegal migrants into the country.

The royal father said there has been a steady increase in the number of illegal migrants moving into the country from the Benin Republic due to the absence of tangible barricades or landmarks demarcating the borders of both countries.

He attributed the influx of illegal migrants for the surge in crime.

Oba Akinyemi said, “The N9bn e-border control system project is a white elephant project just like the botched Nigeria Airways” under the same government of President Buhari.

He expressed doubts about the existence of any e-border control system along the land border with neighbouring Benin Republic.

He noted, “This issue of N9bn e-border control system project is a white elephant project under Buhari’s administration just like the Nigeria Airways which newspaper reports said that some people went to borrow an aircraft somewhere, branded it and call it Nigeria Airways.

“Maybe the e-border control system is at the airport, I don’t know. But for the land border area, nothing like that exists here. In fact, there is a greater influx of Beninois into the country.

“If you come to our area, there nothing so visible demarcating the two countries, just as Nigerians are going into their country, the same way we are having them, the Beninois also coming in droves, it is like we are sharing the same country.”

“They are even laying claims to some of our lands. Maybe the border control system is somewhere in the North, but I have not seen anything like that here. I am one of the advocates for the border commission; where are they? What are they doing?” he queried.

The Eselu also decried the huge infrastructural deficit at border communities, saying that things are beginning to change with the interventions from the state government and the Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Adeola, fondly called Yayi.

He explained, “I have said it countless times: all we see is the budget; we don’t know where the money goes. Maybe in the history of our area, they sank a borehole after PUNCH wrote about the plight of a community without water and all that.

“The infrastructural deficit at the border area is very high, and the children do not have access to basic education. Kudos to the state government for doing this anyway. The state took it upon itself to bring in some schools and build some infrastructure, but it is not enough.

“We also appreciate Senator Solomon Adeola for what he’s doing to enhance the development of the border communities. The reason we are also seeing crime going up is due to the influx of foreigners who come into the country without being checked; they could carry some weapons, they will come into the country, do whatever they like and move back to their country, that’s the problem.”

A resident of Ilara in Imeko-Afon Local Government, Mr Ade Raheem, also argued that there has been no change in the inflow and outflow of people between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

Taiwo said, “Our case is even peculiar because about 35 per cent of Ilara town is in the Republic of Benin while the remaining 65 per cent is in Nigeria. There is nothing so visible demarcating Nigeria and the Republic of Benin other than a crossbar, so people come into Nigeria without any hindrance. Likewise, Nigerians too, go into the Benin without any problem.

“I am not aware of any e-border control system; maybe that could be in the barrack of the immigration which is at the outskirts of the town, but people have continued to move freely into the country from the Benin Republic like it was from time immemorial.”

In a similar development, residents of Maigatari, a border community in Jigawa State, claimed that the system was ineffective.

Jigawa, a northern border state, has a unique dynamic with its neighbouring country, Niger Republic. Its proximity to Niger Republic has nurtured a long-standing relationship between residents of both countries.

In exclusive interviews with The PUNCH, some residents of Maigatari confirmed having family ties, business relationships and even own farms across the border.

According to them, this has created a sense of community and cooperation between the two nations.

A resident of Maigatari, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated, “Illegal immigrants from Niger Republic still find their way into Nigeria. We’ve lived with our Nigerien counterparts for generations.”

Maiwada added, “We have family ties, business relationships, and even own farms across the border. It’s impossible to separate us.”

Another town resident, Sani Dabo, pointed out that the weekly markets, where people from both countries gather to buy and sell goods, are still thriving.

“These markets have been in existence for decades,” said Sani Dabo, a trader in the Maigatari market. “Nigeriens provide a vital source of income for many of us, and we can’t just shut them down,” he stated.

Dabo also highlighted that “the issue of illegal immigration in Jigawa State is complex, with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between residents of Nigeria and Niger Republic.”

When contacted on the issue, the District Head of Maigatari, ‘Sarkin Dawakin Gumel’ Alhaji Muhammad Alhassan, noted that the historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Niger Republic cannot be ignored.

“We’ve always had a cordial relationship with our neighbours from Niger. While we appreciate the government’s efforts to secure our borders, we must also consider the historical and cultural ties that bind us,” the district head said.

The monarch revealed, “We’re not just neighbours; we’re family. Therefore, his sentiment underscores the need for a nuanced approach towards addressing the issue of illegal immigration not only in this area but across all states that share a border with another country.”

According to the district head, the relationship between the people of Nigeria and Niger Republic in the border community of Maigatari has always been peaceful. ‘’We’ve lived together for generations, and our people have always coexisted peacefully,” he said.

“We have a strong tradition of hospitality and mutual respect, and we’ve never had any major conflicts,” he emphasised.

Alhassan also noted that the government authorities responsible for securing the border are doing their best to ensure that anyone crossing the border does so in accordance with the law.

“The immigration officials, customs officials, and other security personnel are all doing their jobs to ensure that the border is secure and that anyone crossing into Nigeria does so with the proper documentation and clearance,” he said, adding that “We’re grateful for their efforts, and we’re confident that they will continue to do their best to keep our borders secure.”

For his part, the Chairman of Maigatari Local Government Area, Usman Na’Allah, in a telephone call said that the e-border control system has helped reduce the influx of illegal immigrants, but more needed to be done.

“We need to strengthen our border security and provide economic opportunities for our people to reduce the temptation to cross the border illegally and this is a call to action for the government,” he stressed.

A member of the vigilante team in Maigatari, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that despite the presence of security personnel, illegal immigrants still find ways into the country.

He noted, “We do our best to patrol the borders, but it’s a vast area, and we can’t be everywhere at once and this highlights the challenges faced by security personnel.”

Meanwhile, concerns continue to grow in Taraba’s border communities over illegal immigrants. Residents and stakeholders in Taraba State’s border communities who spoke to one of our correspondents said the illegal immigrants from Cameroon have continued to cross into the country, raising concerns about security and competition over resources.

Residents of the border towns in the state, including Abong in Kurmi Local Government, Kashimbilla in Takum and Hainare in Sardauna LGAs, said porous borders and inadequate security measures enable the influx of undocumented immigrants.

A local chief in one of the border towns in Kurmi, Danjuma Luka, expressed frustration over the persistent challenge.

“We are still seeing foreigners coming into our communities without any form of documentation. Many of them claim to be refugees, but some have been linked to criminal activities, which is alarming,” he said.

Another resident of Kurmi, who declined to identify himself for security reasons, confirmed the influx of undocumented migrants, attributing it to the challenging terrain of the border areas.

“Taraba State shares borders with Cameroon, and our rugged landscape makes it easy for people to cross undetected. We need more Federal Government support to monitor these areas effectively,” he said.

Leader of the vigilante group in Hinare, Umar Saidu, who said they are often the first line of defence in the communities, told one of our correspondents in a phone interview that they have intercepted undocumented immigrants on several occasions.

A vigilante leader in Ussa, Tanimu Hassan, said, “We work day and night to secure our communities, but the lack of resources and advanced technology hampers our efforts. We hand over illegal immigrants to immigration officers, but it’s a recurring problem.”

When reached for comments, the Jalingo Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service did not respond. Also, the chairmen of the affected local government councils in the border communities declined to comment on the issue.

However, sources in the command admitted that limited manpower and insufficient logistics continue to undermine effective border patrols.

“We are aware of the situation and are working to address it, but the challenges are enormous,” one of the sources in the agency said.

In the South-South state of Cross River, monarchs and youth leaders have pledged to support the fight against illegal migration.

Traditional rulers from Ekpri Ikang and Ikang Town of Bakassi Local Government Area unanimously pledged their unwavering dedication and commitment to fighting illegal immigration in the area.

The monarchs made the remarks in an interview with one of our correspondents, affirming their resolve to promote peace, security and development in the region.

The village head of Ikang Town community, Chief Antigha Cobham, commended the Federal Government for ensuring a strong security system in the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

Cobham noted that the security personnel deployed to the community are dedicated and committed to peacekeeping and surveillance.

He said, “Before now, we used to have cases and clashes of illegal immigration. This community has its border with Cameroon. We owe it a duty to do our best to protect our people by encouraging them to report all suspicions of illegal immigration to security. That is why all the cases of illegal immigration we used to hear are now things of the past.”

“Let me especially thank the Federal Government for the efforts in fighting these illegal immigrants. As traditional rulers, we are doing our very best to support the government and we shall report all forms of illegal immigration to the security agencies,” he disclosed.

He said that the royal fathers would continue collaborating with the security agencies to identify and report all illegal migration cases to the appropriate authorities.

Another member of the Ikang Traditional Rulers Council, Bassey Effiom, called for unity of purpose among all citizens and residents of the state to tackle illegal immigration.

He said, “We must all come together no matter our political leanings or religious inclinations because this issue of illegal migration does not know political party or religious orientation. It is only through collective and focused efforts that we can win the war to guarantee the safety of our people.”

He lauded the state governor, Bassey Otu, and President Bola Tinubu for their proactive leadership and support to the people in the border community, and advised the citizens to abide by the guidelines issued by the government on illegal migration.

A youth leader, Felix Egbe, said the Bakassi Border is closed and well-guarded by the security agencies, including the Nigerian Customs Service.

Egbe revealed, “Some of them who used to cross over here are not coming again because the border is closed. Today is a very big market day; unlike before, they used to cross over here to buy things.

“Some of them will mask themselves and cross the water just to come and buy stuff here. But for now, security has taken over all the places and there are no reports of such acts again.

“Some of them who used to cross to our community will come and buy Nigerian-made drinks like beer and alcoholic brands. But, we have not seen them for some time now because the security system is very tight.”

[Punch]

Nigeria’s Armed Forces has dropped to 39th in the 2024 Global Firepower (GFP) rankings globally. This marks the third consecutive decline after being ranked 36th in 2023 and 35th in 2022.

145 countries were considered in the annual Global Firepower review. 

On the African continent, the country also slipped from third to fourth place behind South Africa, Algeria and Egypt.

The poor ranking comes despite Nigeria’s recent acquisition of advanced fighter jets and military assets, as well as reported progress in combating terrorism within its borders.

The Global FirePower ranking utilizes 60 individual factors to determine a given nation’s power index score with categories ranging from quality of military units and financial standing to logistical capabilities and geography.

Nigeria’s Power Index (PwrIndx) score for 2024 was 0.5619, with a score of 0.0000 representing the pinnacle of military strength.

Meanwhile, Egypt retained its position as Africa’s strongest military, followed by Algeria and South Africa.

US military retains top spot for 18 consecutive year

Globally, the United States maintained its dominance, ranking first for the 18th consecutive years. Other global powers such as Russia, China, India, and South Korea rounded out the top five.

Notable African nations, such as Ethiopia, Angola, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, also appeared in the rankings, reflecting the countries’ diverse military landscape.

Some of the categories considered shows that Nigeria is at the bottom of the radar in terms of helicopter carrier fleet strength by country, tanker fleet strength by country, destroyer fleet strength by country, naval corvette fleet strength by country, submarine fleet strength, and reserve military strength, ranking 145 out of all the countries reviewed. It also ranked poorly in terms of crude oil consumption by country and natural gas consumption by country.

It, however, scored excellent in total available manpower, population fit-for-service, and paramilittary strength among others.

The drop in rankings raises questions about Nigeria’s defence capabilities and resource allocation amidst its ongoing security challenges.

[Vanguard]

Chloe Bailey, the American singer, has opened up about her relationship with Burna Boy, the Afrofusion star. 

During the festive period last year, Bailey, 26, and Burna Boy were spotted together at Obi’s House, a nightlife club in Lagos.

Their outing sparked rumours that the two singers were dating.

But in a recent interview on the Breakfast Club podcast, the host asked Bailey if she was bringing a date to the 2025 NAACP Awards.

The singer replied that she would be attending with her godmother and manager.

When asked about Burna Boy, Bailey chose not to confirm or deny the dating rumours. She, however, said she is focused on her positive experiences in Nigeria.

“Nigeria was so beautiful. I had the best time. I ate some good food. I ate pepper soup. I ate some spicy chicken. It was really good. At the nightlife? It was so good. There were so many lights,” she said.

“I am a grown woman. I had a great time in Nigeria. He is a grown man just like I am a grown woman”.

“It is my life. It is what I signed up for. I can only expect it. It is just about how I handle it and myself. I do not think it should ever be pissing towards people asking me.”

Chloe Bailey speaks on rumored relationship with Burna Boy pic.twitter.com/TlqIdoEuQr

—CableLifestyle (@CableLifestyle) January 8, 2025

 

Burna Boy’s dating history has been the subject of much speculation and attention. His preference for dating foreign black women has been well-documented.

The Grammy winner once dated Stefflon Don, the British rapper.

In 2020, the rapper spoke of his admiration for Burna Boy and how the Nigerian megastar told her he wished to make her his wife.

The ‘Ye’ singer also admitted that he intends to raise a child with the British singer, which ignited their relationship.

But the relationship hit the rocks along the way, with Burna Boy stating — in an interview — that he “has no wife” when he was asked about Don.

[TheCable]

Nigeria’s principle of strategic autonomy is one that abhors the presence of foreign forces and private military companies in our region, whether from east or west. Nigeria presently has troops on peace keeping operations in Guinea Bissau and Gambia, with Sierra Leone on the way, where it is also supporting the setting up of a logistics base in Lungi. Nigeria is also leading the actualisation of the ECOWAS standby force, all in an effort to fight terrorism and instability within our region under the rule of law.

I was born in a civil war and was not able to vote for my leader until I was in my 30s. Nigeria is now a country guided by the rule of law and a constitution that clearly defines our system of government. This includes our foreign policy objectives, and rightly so, because in an interconnected world, we define our sovereignty in the context of certain, key principles: our right to self-determination; our right to defend our autonomy and secure our borders; and responsibility to respect our obligations under international law.

As foreign minister, I think these provisions are not just reasonable but vital – both for our own democracy, domestic peace and prosperity but also for a more just and stable international order. But the point is this: it is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not the manifesto of a political party or predilections of a particular politician, that lays out these provisions. In a democracy, we have the privilege of healthy debates about our values, policies and performance. But if we are to live up to the responsibilities that come with democracy, that debate should be informed, fair and reasonable.

I respect the Constitution and its vision for Nigeria’s place in the international community, as do many of us. It has been an honour and a privilege to protect and promote those constitutional principles. They are the best guarantees for legitimacy, and the authority all governments need if they are to deliver. It is complex and time consuming. To our cost, we have learnt that there are no short cuts. Some Nigerians find fault in our Constitution, while others seek to amend it. There is always room for serious debate in a healthy democracy. But the fact remains that it is the very document President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and every public official has sworn to uphold since 1999.

Nigeria’s Constitution declares that sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria, from whom government, through this Constitution, derives all its powers and authority. The same Chapter of the Constitution goes on to state Nigeria’s five foreign policy objectives: promotion and protection of the national interest, African integration and support for African unity, promotion of international cooperation for peace and mutual respect, respect of international law and treaty obligations and promotion of a just world economic order. Those who suggest Nigeria does not have a foreign policy or those who agitate for a shift away from an Afro-centric foreign policy are wrong; either they are ill-informed, or deliberately disingenuous.

The irony of it all is that Nigerians are able to speak in support of our military-ruled neighbours, governed without constitutions, precisely because Chapter Four of our own constitution guarantees them these rights and freedoms. This is not the same for the citizens ruled by the very regimes for which they seek to cheerlead of those countries governed without constitutions. Nigerians who are older than 30 know this to be true because we have been there, done that. Somehow in the passage of time, some forget that the military regime here that despatched troops to restore democracy in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1990s had first – and by force – taken that same democracy and rule of law away from us – just as military regimes continue to do, the world over.

The Constitution also makes clear why any responsible Nigerian government should be concerned when neighbours are governed without a constitution or codified rules. It goes without saying that the sovereignty of our neighbours is their business. They can grant powers to whatever governing structures they deem fit and should expect their autonomy to remain safeguarded. But when our Interdependence Sovereignty overlaps, we equally have a right to exercise control over our borders in those cases where neighbours face insurgencies that significantly compromise territorial integrity and state authority.

The fulcrum of the Tinubu administration’s foreign policy is Strategic Autonomy, providing us with the clarity to engage with any and all nations on the basis of our national interests and not those of others. As a nation, Nigeria is adult and sophisticated enough to deal with countries without being unduly influenced, because that has been part of our historical and civic tradition. You cannot cure an illness by picking which symptoms to consider and which to ignore.

International legal sovereignty also becomes an issue when we consider that respect for international law and treaty obligations is one of our irreducible foreign policy objectives. This is not the Tinubu administration’s foreign policy; it is a constitutional provision that every Nigerian president and government official swears to uphold. Nigeria is a member of ECOWAS, which is founded on treaties and protocols to which our foreign policy objectives commit us. All 15 member countries are signatory to the treaties and protocols, which is why it was no surprise that President Tinubu, as one who swore to uphold the Constitution, abided by it when ECOWAS leaders collectively objected to Unconstitutional Changes of Government.

In reality, the contemporary nation-state system is highly competitive and Nigeria exists in a self-help world. Our Constitution and international laws are meant to serve as guard rails in navigating the system. And by virtue of our size, we have the additional responsibility of being the regional power. Regardless of how some may try to diminish our standing, it is the way other countries perceive us. Our Constitution further reifies this leadership role right from the preamble – dedicating ourselves to promoting inter-African solidarity, to the foreign policy objectives: promotion of African integration and support for African unity and elimination of discrimination in all its manifestations.

The Tinubu administration comes at a time when an interlocking suite of occurrences have made our neighbourhood less secure; the implosion of Libya, failure of the EU Sahel Strategy, terrorism and criminal gangs, effects of climate change and population explosion. Nigeria did not create these challenges and was equally contending with its own domestic issue as these challenges escalated. Nigeria was not part of Operation Barkhane or the G5 in the Sahel, which were intended as efforts to fight terrorism and irregular migration but instead strengthened some irridentist Azawad/Tuareg groups that controlled border areas. This created a cauldron of disharmony between them and their national militaries, trained for a lifetime to keep their countries intact.

Nor was Nigeria part of the Partnership Framework with Third Countries that conditioned aid and trade deals for Sahelian migration transit states, in exchange for reducing the flow of migrants, with penalties for those who do not comply. In the case of Niger, a moment of truth was the passing of Law 2015-36 in May 2015 when its government, in consultation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and technical and financial support from the European Union and its member states, criminalised ancillary activities of the migration economy, such as providing transportation and accommodation to foreign nationals anywhere north of Agadez, in direct contravention of the ECOWAS Protocol on the free movement of people. They were persuaded to use a blunt hammer to crack a delicate nut. There is a highly politicised migration crisis in parts of Europe, that together we can and should resolve. But it was reckless to seek to solve one problem by creating another.

There is a reason why we have free movement in West Africa; seasonal migration – referred to in Hausa as ‘Ci Rani’. Seasonal migration in the semi-arid Sahel can be a matter of life and death, which is why we have always had turbaned Tuaregs going as far as Lagos and Port Harcourt to work as Maigadis (security) during the dry months, only to return back north during the rainy season. The weaponisation of sub-Saharan migration in Europe as a political tool led to the securitisation of the Sahel region, further exacerbating the security situation by forcing many of those affected to turn to criminal activities and terrorism. European migration figures show that the majority of migrants are from Syria, Afghanistan and Central Asia, not sub-Saharan Africa.

Yes, we need to work with our Sahelian neighbours to fight terrorism, by maintaining a right of pursuit into each others territories. But it would be myopic to think of this in absolutist terms, because we can accede to all conditionalities laid by them, it would still not be enough to tackle the challenges without a lasting solution to the bifurcated Libyan State as a source of weapons, training and fighters, as well as the shadowy involvement of a range of other state and non-state actors.

Nigeria has never had expansionist tendencies, never been threatening towards our neighbours and always chosen the path of peace and conciliation. This, in part, may have to do with the makeup of our polity and social fabric. Being such a huge country, we are used to the virtues of principled compromise. It is not by accident that we are the only country on the continent with six former leaders living in peace and harmony within our borders.

To achieve lasting peace in Libya and the Sahel, Nigeria needs to deal with all the countries in the neighbourhood, as well as all the major powers. For this reason, it does not make sense to simply deduce that Nigeria has to distance itself from France because that is the prevailing trend in its former colonies. The fulcrum of the Tinubu administration’s foreign policy is Strategic Autonomy, providing us with the clarity to engage with any and all nations on the basis of our national interests and not those of others. As a nation, Nigeria is adult and sophisticated enough to deal with countries without being unduly influenced, because that has been part of our historical and civic tradition. You cannot cure an illness by picking which symptoms to consider and which to ignore.

Nigeria and ECOWAS will continue diplomatic efforts towards Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. At a minimum, we have a shared interest in peaceful co-existence. President Tinubu has sent out a number of high-level delegations that included a former Head of State, traditional rulers and religious scholars. President Tinubu pushed for the unconditional removal of ECOWAS sanctions imposed on Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. What he has consistently asked of the countries in question is for them to come up with a timetable for the restoration of constitutional rule and, in the case of Niger, the release of ousted President Bazoum.

Their response was to declare their intention to leave ECOWAS. With the one-year notice period coming to an end in January, President Tinubu further pushed for ECOWAS to extend the grace period for another six months, whilst intensifying diplomatic efforts. The response to this initiative last month was evidence-free allegations that Nigeria was harbouring foreign soldiers and sponsoring state terrorism. Whenever President Tinubu and other democratic leaders offer stoic statesmanship and an opportunity to work together towards our common interests, it is met by confected controversy designed to divert and distract from a failure to meet the basic responsibilities of public administration. I know why coup leaders might seek to do that: it’s harder to understand the motives of apologists closer to home.

On my part, since assuming the office of Minister of Foreign Affairs on 21st August 2023, I have engaged diplomatically without pause, proposing personal visits and inviting senior government officials and representatives. The response has been akin to a diplomatic cold shoulder. We constituted a ministerial advisory committee that visited Niger and Mali and facilitated the visit of the Nigerian CDS to meet with his counterpart in Niamey. I regret that a proposed return visit was suspended by Niger after a date had been set. But let there be no doubt: We will continue to pursue diplomatic efforts assiduously, with a Ministry of Foreign Affairs that has existed for 67 years.

Nigeria’s principle of strategic autonomy is one that abhors the presence of foreign forces and private military companies in our region, whether from east or west. Nigeria presently has troops on peace keeping operations in Guinea Bissau and Gambia, with Sierra Leone on the way, where it is also supporting the setting up of a logistics base in Lungi. Nigeria is also leading the actualisation of the ECOWAS standby force, all in an effort to fight terrorism and instability within our region under the rule of law. We work closely with our partners on sharing of intelligence in order to guarantee the same rights and freedoms are enjoyed by all the people of the region.

As several of my colleagues in the region remind me, we are the hegemon, whether we admit it or not. And global politics works almost like physics, with polarity, ordering principles, distribution of power, balancing, etc. Nigeria has never had expansionist tendencies, never been threatening towards our neighbours and always chosen the path of peace and conciliation. This, in part, may have to do with the makeup of our polity and social fabric. Being such a huge country, we are used to the virtues of principled compromise. It is not by accident that we are the only country on the continent with six former leaders living in peace and harmony within our borders. Diversity, not division, is our strength. This is as true for Nigeria as it is for the smallest of countries – and collectively for all of our region.

Yusuf Tuggar is Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Nigeria stands at a crossroads, where the choices made today will shape the nation's future. While challenges like poor governance and corruption are often highlighted, two critical issues are frequently overlooked: a lack of discipline and environmental degradation. Addressing these underlying factors is essential for Nigeria's progress and prosperity.

One major problem is the reckless driving seen in urban areas, especially in Lagos and Abuja. Some drivers frequently ignore traffic signals and regulations, putting themselves and others in danger. For instance, commercial minibuses, known as Danfo, often violate traffic lights and one-way rules, creating chaotic situations on the roads. This dangerous behavior not only threatens public safety but also reflects a broader issue of a deep-rooted indiscipline that needs urgent attention.

Environmental degradation is another pressing concern that cannot be ignored. In the Niger Delta, gas flaring continues to harm the environment, while street vendors contribute to pollution through open-fire cooking. Vendors like Mama-Put and Suya sellers, who operate without proper facilities, release harmful emissions into the air. Transitioning these businesses to enclosed environments would help reduce pollution and improve public health, making it a necessary step forward for Nigeria.

Looking at other countries can provide valuable lessons for Nigeria. Rwanda, for instance, has made tremendous strides in creating a cleaner environment. The country has implemented a nationwide ban on plastic bags and organizes monthly community clean-up days called "Umuganda." This initiative fosters a sense of community responsibility and encourages citizens to take pride in their surroundings. Such practices can inspire similar initiatives in Nigeria, promoting discipline and environmental consciousness among the population.

Singapore is another example of a country that has successfully transformed its urban landscape. The city-state is known for its strict laws regarding littering and public behavior, leading to a clean and orderly environment. The government has invested in green spaces and a comprehensive public transportation system, making it easier for citizens to move around without relying on cars. By enforcing discipline in public spaces and prioritizing sustainable development, Singapore has created a livable city that Nigeria can aspire to emulate.

Malaysia also offers valuable insights into effective urban management. The country has developed initiatives to promote the use of public transport, significantly reducing traffic congestion and pollution. Moreover, Malaysia has invested in green technology and practices, such as rainwater harvesting and waste management systems, to ensure a cleaner environment. Adopting similar strategies could help Nigeria tackle its own environmental issues and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

South Africa, with its diverse landscapes and cultures, has faced significant challenges related to urbanization and environmental degradation. However, initiatives like the "Working for Water" program aim to restore ecosystems while providing job opportunities. This program tackles invasive plant species that threaten local biodiversity, showcasing how environmental efforts can also support economic growth. Nigeria can learn from such programs to create jobs while enhancing environmental protection.

To combat these issues, the Lagos State government must take decisive action. A modern transportation system should be prioritized, addressing the chaos on the roads and ensuring safer travel for all. This system must be equipped to handle the growing population and the increasing number of tourists visiting during peak seasons, such as the December holidays. Moreover, regulating roadside mechanics and street vendors is essential to maintain order and cleanliness in the city.

The demolition of decaying police barracks in Falomo is an encouraging move. Collaboration between both state and federal governments can lead to effective policies that target the root causes of environmental degradation. For example, clearing shantytowns near busy areas like Eko Hotel and Onikan stadium would not only improve the city's appearance but also enhance public safety.

For the half decade period of 2025-2030 , it is crucial for Lagos and indeed, Nigeria to focus on instilling discipline and cleaning up the environment. Phasing out unfit Danfo buses and developing a sustainable inland waterway transportation system are vital steps that can lead to a safer and cleaner Lagos. The need for immediate action is clear, as the safety of all citizens hangs in the balance.

In conclusion, the journey toward a better Nigeria requires addressing both indiscipline and environmental issues, amongst the excruciating economic challenges. 

By prioritizing these concerns, the nation can create a safer, cleaner, and more prosperous future. A unified effort by the Local Government Areas, States and the Federal Government to improve traffic management and regulate environmental practices will pave the way for sustainable growth. Learning from successful initiatives in countries like Rwanda, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Africa can provide a roadmap for Nigeria's transformation. The time to act is now.

Sonny Iroche, Senior Academic Fellow. African Studies Centre. University of Oxford. 2022-2023

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/sonnyiroche

No fewer than 21 Heads of State, including Presidents Bola Tinubu and Paul Kagame, as well as former African leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Jacob Zuma, among others, were at the Independent Square in Accra on Tuesday for the swearing-in ceremony of Mr John Dramani Mahama as President of Ghana. And it could not have escaped the attention of these dignitaries (and presidential delegations from Western countries, including the United States) that the loudest ovation from the crowd was reserved for the military ruler of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. That Traore was invited to the ceremony was in itself a glaring indication of the contradictions within the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS). But the main concern for me is that the crowd of young people so heartily hailed a coup leader on a day that was ordinarily meant to celebrate democracy. Besides, by prancing around with gun-wielding bodyguards, Traore was allowed to put a stain on the ceremony by breaching security/protocol.

Interestingly, former ECOWAS Executive Secretary, Mr Muhamed Ibn Chambas, whom I met by chance at the venue, before he received me at his home later Tuesday evening, was not surprised. “Look at the demographics of those hailing the guy, they are young people,” he said while explaining the results of studies conducted within the subregion on democracy which should task our leaders. Respected academic, diplomat and statesman, Chambas is an authority on political developments within the subregion. ECOWAS president (2006 to 2009), Secretary-General of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (2010-2012), Head of the Joint UN-AU Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur (2012-2014) and head of United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) from April 2014 to April 2021, Chambas provided rare insights into the challenges within ECOWAS and the future of democracy in Africa during our encounter at his Accra home on Tuesday night. But I don’t want to get ahead of myself.

The moment I arrived in Accra last Saturday, I could sense the mood of festivity and the feeling of great expectations for the incoming administration. The verdict of the former Convention People’s Party (CPP) General Secretary, Nana Yaa Jantuah, may have been harsh but it is also reflective of the general perception about the last administration. “When I say that Nana Addo has the tendencies of Nebuchadnezzar, people think I am joking. He awarded himself the title of the best president. What does that mean? He is an error, a mistake…he has brought darkness to this nation,” she said on TV3’s New Day last week. “The state of the nation is reflected in my pocket, your pocket, and everyone’s pocket. This Christmas, we could not even afford to buy chicken.”

But it was at his final State of the Nation address last Friday that (now former) President Akufo-Addo got his report card from the Deputy Minority Leader and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Akufo-Addo’s “tenure in office will remain a timely reminder of how not to govern the country” he said before adding, “This abysmal record was confirmed on December 7th when the people of Ghana delivered the most overwhelming and emphatic vote of rejection any government has ever witnessed in the Fourth Republic.” Buah ended his speech by quoting a Biblical passage that drew parallel between the liberation of Israel from Egypt and the situation in Ghana. Facing Akufo-Addo who had wry smile on his face, the opposition lawmaker said: “Fellow Ghanaians, we are comforted and strengthened by the following words of scripture in Exodus 14:13 and I quote: ‘And Moses said unto the people, fear ye not, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord which he will show you today. For the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you shall see them no more’. Bye bye Mr. President, it is finished.”

Despite the poor organisation, Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by important dignitaries from across the world. In his speech, President Mahama assured Ghanaians that he would “have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to ask for help in resolving them,” while outlining four key areas his administration will prioritise: Economic restoration and stabilization, Improvement of the business and investment environment, Governance and constitutional reforms and Accountability and the fight against corruption. “The business community must know that Ghana is back in business,” he declared.

Ghana may be back in business, but Mahama is inheriting a troubled economy. In its report on Tuesday, Reuters quoted Godfred Bokpina, a finance professor at the University of Ghana, saying “The average Ghanaian is growing impatient with our democracy. People have done their part by voting but they’re asking: what have they gotten from this democracy?” That of course is a feeling you get in many countries within the subregion, including Nigeria. But there are no easy solutions to the current challenges in Ghana. “The outgoing government kept the system running by bandaging open sores,” Bright Simons of Accra-based IMANI think tank, also told Reuters. “They left the festering wounds for him.”

When I spoke with Mahama four months ago at his Accra home during my last visit to Ghana, he was optimistic about winning the election. But he also knew the challenges he would face. “The economy is in crisis. Ghana has lost its position as the second largest economy in West Africa to Cote D’Ivoire. Until this (Akufo-Addo’s) administration, Ghana used to be second after Nigeria,” Mahama told me. “We have a debt crisis; investors have lost the confidence in our country with many businesses either leaving Ghana for other countries or shutting down completely.”

Mahama cited the example of the cocoa industry which he said has been grossly mismanaged, leaving many of the farmers frustrated. “With their excessive borrowings, they have destroyed the cocoa industry, just as they have done with the oil and gas sector”, said Mahama. “Rather than new investment what you have now is divestment. In fact, because of the toxic environment they have created, we have the worst FDI in recent history. They keep taxing the people, while borrowing heavily. They cannot even borrow again. Ghana has one of the worst inflations in the world.”

On what he would do differently in office, Mahama said his victory would create a new beginning. “Our policies will encourage new businesses, restore investors’ confidence, reduce recurrent expenditure and stablise economy.” He specifically stated that he will grant incentives to revive the cocoa industry. “How can we assist farmers? Water is important so for small scale farmers, we will help with boreholes and other inputs like fertilizer.”

Now that he has assumed office, Mahama must deliver on his promise. Meanwhile, Traore’s attendance of the swearing in ceremony continues to generate considerable interest. In his X post on Tuesday, Ali Nana, a Zimbabwean public affairs analyst, said the loud ovation received by Traore calls for introspection on the part of African leaders about service delivery to their people. I took up same issue with Chambas when I visited his home along with my friend, Mustapha Sanah (HRH Dalun-Lana Tapha Mahamadu II), Princess Hatiyyah Ibrahim Mahama, Alhaji Kamil and my son, Korede who joined me on the trip to Ghana.

Explaining why the crowd of young people hailed the Burkina Faso coup leader, Chambas said it is a combination of several factors, including the influence of social media and the demographics of the people at the venue. But there are also substantive issues that should not be ignored. “Polls after polls are saying that most people on the continent, about 80 percent, prefer to choose their leaders through democratic means so one can argue that our people are still for democracy. But when questions are posed about whether they are satisfied with what democracy offers them, the response is quite different. Less than 50 percent express satisfaction. That is the challenge our leaders must deal with.”

As a former ECOWAS president, Chambas also offers insights into what is going on within the sub-region, especially regarding recent coups in a number of Francophone countries. He located the problem in the overbearing disposition of France, and the disrespectful attitude of certain French leaders who treat these countries like French vassals, citing several instances he personally witnessed. He recalled a summit of African Heads of States of the Group of Five without prior consultation with or even notification to the leaders who took exception to the way the meeting was convened. He also highlighted ways in which France has mismanaged its relationship with countries it had colonised on the continent. “You can see what is happening now in Chad that has asked France to leave. For the first time you have the Foreign Minister of Chad responding to President Emmanuel Macron’s provocation.”

Chambas believes that the ECOWAS decision regarding Niger, which eventually culminated in three countries (including Mali and Burkina Faso), leaving the regional body was precipitate and counterproductive. “I didn’t understand the haste and the threat of military action against Niger. With what troops? And under which funding arrangement?” Chambas asked before disclosing that ECOWAS was goaded into the action by foreign actors, but the plot unravelled quickly because the Nigerien military rallied behind the coup. “By not distancing itself from foreign powers at a period we are witnessing a resurgence of Pan-Africanism”, according to Chambas, “ECOWAS made itself look as if it was serving the interest of others.” Chambas reeled out a catalogue of destabilising roles some foreign powers had played in the subregion, including the toppling of Muammar Ghadaffi in Libya despite warnings about the consequences for security in countries that are now under military rule.  

Being with Chambas, who clocked 74 last December, was like being in school on the politics of West Africa. But he insists that military coups offer no solution to any country, especially within the sub-region. And for his country, Ghana, where he was a Minister in the eighties and early nineties, Chambas has a word: “I urge Ghanaians to temper their expectations with a dose of reality. They must be patient, considering the challenges at hand. But I also encourage President Mahama to be accountable while his government must deliver on the public good.”

On the Ogbomoso Crisis 

In my column last week, I used a Tik-Tok video of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye to make my point about leadership. In the clip, Pastor Adeboye delivered what could be termed a ‘palace sermon’ to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Ọba Ghandi Afọlábí Ọláoyè, Orumógege III. I have learnt that the video is not new, that it was delivered at the coronation of the Soun in December 2023. I have also learnt that the contention over who becomes the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland was not instigated by the monarch and is between Dr Teliat Yunus and the Ayilara family whose candidate should fill the office.

I received a deluge of responses to my column, most of them arguing that I got the facts wrong. Let me take excerpts from the one by a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN): “I have followed this controversy very well. The problem is majorly by the ‘Imam’, who by some strange order of things is a ‘chief’ of the palace going by the fact that he occupies his ‘Imamship’ by appointment of the King. But he doesn’t think he is accountable or should show any regard to the current Oba for whatever reason, even though he is a very young man. Meanwhile, there’s indeed a palace mosque (Moshalasi Oba, just like Oja Oba) in the town, and it’s the King that appoints the Imam for that mosque. The Imamship is also a family heritage or title, and the status of the current occupier as a member of that family has been in controversy even before the ascension to the throne by the current Soun. I will forward to you the videos of some ‘sermons’ of this Imam that I have come across. You’ll see for yourself how uncouth, rude and insolent he has been carrying on via-a-vis the Soun. That he has not succeeded in causing a religious crisis is because of the general attitude of our (Yoruba) people to matters of differences in individual religious orientation.”

As I have explained to some of the Ogbomoso chiefs who called or sent messages, I have tremendous respect for the Soun whom I have known since the nineties at the ‘Apapa Family’ of the RCCG. My interest in the matter is that peace reign in his domain.

How many people know the difference between another year and a new year? When, on the eve of a new year we shout “Happy New Year!”, how many have an understanding whether the new year they are ushering in will be just "another" year or they actually want it to be a “new” year different in many respects from the outgoing year? Someone said the new year, much like birthdays, should be celebrated with all sobriety because they move us closer to the grave! Rather than say “I am a year older today”, we ought to say that we are a year closer to our grave! This must be what scripture means when it admonishes us in Psalm 90:12 : “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom”

Many rejoice at the prospect of escaping the outgoing year because of the calamities, frustrations, and disappointments it might have visited on them. So, it is good riddance to bad rubbish! For others, it is not themselves but others that have been so unfortunate. Therefore, they give thanks that they did not partake in the troubles that were the lot of others. New year offers an opportunity to make good what went wrong or what didn’t add up in the outgoing year. Where lines did not fall in nice places (Psalm 16: 5), the new year offers another opportunity to set things on proper footing and hope - plan - for the best. Unless you know it and consciously work towards it, the year that rolls in may just be "another" year - and there may be nothing "new" in it or about it.

For those who have everything working well for them, will they still covet a new thing in the new year? The answer, I think, is yes! Everyone wants add-ons, regardless of how well served they have been in the past or are at the moment. Human needs, we have been told, are insatiable; so, everyone wants a turnaround that will make their best even better. Oh, there must have been many with bad memories of the year that was winding down who would never want to be reminded of it!

For such, the desire is something different, refreshingly different, in the new year. They want to forget their sorrows. They want to shut the door firmly against the past and look forward with hope towards the future. In the new year, they must recover all! And they must march forward and forget all the sorrows of the past.

Isaiah 43: 18 - 20 is apt here, for it says: "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it will spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen”

These are comforting words for anyone trying to put the past behind him or her and looking at the new year not just as "another" year but as a "new" year in truth and in deed: A year that forecloses the pains, anguish and sorrow of the past; that makes a way where there had been no way and brings hope where there had been hopelessness.

The wilderness is one place where someone can easily lose his way; the wilderness of life is a place of hopelessness where, whether one moves forward or goes backward offers no reprieve. Making a way there immediately brings hope - the hope of seeing light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how long. I have been in the desert of northern Nigeria before and I know that the most prized commodity there is water - not gold or rubies. Water in the desert means life. The absence or lack of it means sure death - slow and painful death.

A new year that brings happiness as opposed to another year with its drudgery, however, comes with a price. Newness of life, newness of hope, and newness of aspiration must consciously be harnessed. Scripture tells us how this should be done in Luke 5: 37 - 39 when it says: “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved…” Old habits that profited nothing in the previous year must yield way for new habits that will make the new year not “another" year but a "new" year indeed. New ideas, new thought processes, new and better ways of doing things are imperative to making the new year “new” indeed.

Scripture says "death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21). If you can say it, believing it, you can do it! If you believe you can fly in this new year, then, believe you me, you will fly! If you can dream
it, you can achieve it. Most of the inventions we know today started as dreams. And some were even mistakes! So, don’t be afraid to make mistakes if you really want 2025 to be a “new" year and not “another" year - drab, lacklustre and uneventful in all its ramifications.

The quotes from the bible here do not foreclose anyone. If you are a Christian, fine; but if not, no hassles. Only “if thou canst believe…” (Mark 9: 23). God has constructed our mind as a powerhouse. What remains to be seen is the use to which the individual puts his or her own mind. This year, to make the year truly “new” and not “another" year, put your mind to positive use only. Hold on to the word of God that says: “Behold, I make all things new”. And as if He knows that you need further assurance, He follows this up by saying: "Write: for these words are true and faithful”!

May 2025 be a happy new year and not just another year to all my esteemed readers in Jesus mighty name!

FEEDBACK

And the man died…

Death will come when it will. It is the eventual end of all living things. Physical life is temporal.

Yes, you are right to demand for Government policies that will intervene in some cases but remember the case of Abiola's first wife? Money was put to shame! The woman died. Methuselah lived for over 900 years, but he still died. Once “Olojo” beckons, there is no controversy! The senseless destruction of life in some parts of the country and elsewhere in the world is a case of the wickedness of man. Even God regretted creating man (Gen. 6:5 & 6). Can you still remember the physical appearance of your progenitors 150 years ago? So in another 150 years, will your children's children remember you? It is a natural thing to die! If we were not to die and people like Adam, Abraham, Isaac and the others are still walking around today, how will it be? I believe God's plan for man to live for a while and die is the best. How the individual utilizes the opportunity will determine how people will remember him - and for how long. Sango was a king in Oyo, people turned him into a deity and still worship him up till today. Oranmiyan and many others were human beings who died but are still being remembered till today. Awolowo's actions in the old Western Region make people still talk about him. - Pa E. K. Odeleye.

Add to your write-up on the above subject-matter the state of our hospitals where we have qualified doctors willing to work but lack of medical equipment to handle patients with complications hinders them. There is nothing they do abroad that we cannot do here if the enabling environment is provided. You can imagine that UCH did not have electricity for months last year and the mortuary was becoming a health hazard! The problem is that we have arm-chair ministers, heads of departments and parastatals who should be on their feet to see that the work is done. Until we put sincere, selfless and hard-working people in positions of authority, Nigeria will forever be crawling. - Chief (Mrs.) Jumoke Anifowose.

That was very philosophical, cogent and reflective! Lo, of all the appropriate questions asked, the most useful to livelihood and to humanity is "What is the purpose of life, after all?" Lo, how beneficial it would be if people of power and means, and all of us, can ponder and make necessary amends! But most unfortunately, as the Scripture says, "The heart of man is desperately wicked, who can know it?" - Elder Olaitan Makanjuola.

Death is an in-built mechanism. All animals, anything with life, are programmed to die. The universe itself is programmed to stop existing one day! - Afuw 7777.