The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Lakurawa and the challenge of counter terrorism

    Lakurawa and the challenge of counter terrorism

    Sir: In 2007, a group of terrorists called “Taliban” entered Nigeria through our north-eastern border. These terrorists moved down up to Panshekara in Kano metropolis, ambushed and killed 13 of our gallant police officers. It was in the same year that Sheikh Jafar Adam was killed while leading a congregational Subhi prayer. Thenceforth, terrorism and violent extremism has never stopped in Nigeria.

    Terrorism and violent extremism are foreign incubated ideologies imported into Nigeria. Even the leader of “Maitatsine group”, Muhammadu Marwa was a Cameroonian.

    The latest group of terrorists sighted in Sokoto and Kebbi are not Nigerians. They are foreigners. Apparently, they came through our north-western border, Niger Republic in particular.

    Like I have said elsewhere, Nigeria is not only attractive to terrorists because of its richness, and a young population that are susceptible to manipulation, but also because we are surrounded by hostile neighbours that abet the movement of insurgents.

    Read Also: New Benin Republic town monarch completes traditional rites in Ila-Orangun

    We know that terrorists cannot enter Nigeria through the north without passing through Niger Republic.  I warned that the military junta of Niger would undermine us and sabotage us and that is exactly what has been happening since the military coup of last year. The head of Niger military junta, Abdurrahman Tchiani hates President Bola Tinubu because of the latter’s stance against military authoritarianism. Several times, I wrote letters and tried to draw the attention of the then Director General National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufa’i and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Maitama Tuggar at no avail.

    I don’t have to be a prophet to predict the coming of Lakurawa. Because I know even Tchiani himself could invite them to come to Nigeria. The sub regional body, ECOWAS is wasting its time cajoling the Russian stooges. It is not in their political interest to come back to ECOWAS unless the body is ready to be led by military autocrats.

    I want to say it once again that so long as Russian stooges continue to lead Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, Nigeria would remain in a fatally disadvantageous position.

    What about the so-called ECOWAS standby force! When is it going to be activated?

    •Comrade Bishir Dauda Sabuwar,Unguwa Katsina

  • The return of Donald Trump

    The return of Donald Trump

    Sir: Donald Trump has won the US elections to become the 47th president of the United States, beating incumbent vice president, Kamala Harris, to the seat he occupied between 2016 and 2021 as the 45th president of the world’s largest democracy and economy.

     Trump’s entrance into the race changed the dynamics of the most important election on earth, overshadowing the decision of the incumbent, Joe Biden, not to seek re-election.

    As the campaigns carried on with ferocity, the mere thought of Trump reoccupying the White House was a source of great trepidation for  many. The combative and combustible former president’s first tenure was a nightmare to many people on many levels.

    Even after leaving office, lawsuit after lawsuit followed him for infractions his time in office had put into abeyance.

    Unapologetic and unafraid to take difficult decisions, what does his re-election mean for those on the fringes of US foreign policy?

    For human rights campaigners who look to the world’s most liberal democracy for hope and direction in the global fight for human rights, Trump is the worst possible news at a time when human rights are being peeled back around the world.

    His first tenure was a catastrophic loss for human rights around the world as his charged rhetoric embolden autocrats around the world leading to policies that set back human rights many years.

    For immigrants, it is well time to beat another path for their dreams to leave their conflict-ridden and poverty-stricken countries.

    Read Also: Niger Delta stakeholders condemn call for dissolution of NDDC board

    The fact that he takes a very dim view of immigrants is well-known. He is always talking about borders and security and no doubt, he would want to keep as many people as he can from entering the United States.

    Trump is not all bad news, though. His ruthless statecraft is sure to keep terrorists around the world on their toes because they would know that the world’s most important politician is also a stickler for peace and security.

    For all his grumpiness and controversies, the man is always a wellspring of clarity on where he stands and what he stands for. He says things the way he feels and leaves it at that. He also walks his talk.

    In a world where sentiment often trumps security and sustainability, Trump is a trump card for many who feel that a return to the old ways is the way to go.

    Is he racist? Is he toxic? Is he ruthless? He may be all these and more, but what he isn’t is weak or stupid and the mounting problems of the world, which the US has a bird view of, requires an iron will.

    In engaging with Nigeria and Africa, Trump’s iron tactics may finally force an impoverished and unserious continent to reckon with its complacency while recording the many failures it has tallied when success in many respects was tantalizingly  close.

    While congratulations are in order for President Trump for making what is for his teeming supporters a rousing comeback, he will do well to remember that he comes with a target on his back and the eyes of the world watching him.

    It is not for the absence of fanatics and extremists in different ideologies that America has been able to remain a beacon for the world all these years. Rather, it is because American institutions have always managed to somehow check those excesses.

    More than ever, with the such a controversial personality about to assume such a key position that has repercussions far beyond the borders of the United States, there is need for those institutions to be at their vigilant best to check and curb the  excesses he is sure to bring to office.

    It is also a lesson for other countries around the world, especially those suffocating under the iron boots of tyrants and autocrats. Institutions outlive individuals, and no country can develop without efficient institutions.

    •Kene Obiezu,keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • Still on the matter of freed ‘minors’

    Still on the matter of freed ‘minors’

    sir: Nigeria is a country given to hysteria, histrionics, and even the occasional huff of hubris. The tendency to overblow things here, and mount its inflated wings, is never far away.

    This tendency to be lured into crowdsourcing anger borders on gullibility and usually clouds more important issues.

     Between August 1 and August 10, citizens mobilized across the country to protest against government’s harsh policies.  The aim of the protesters was to disrupt as well as disturb a government that appeared too comfortable in its listlessness.

    While protesters in other parts of the country had the dignity and civility to keep their protests peaceful and measured, things took a dangerous turn in many parts of the North where the protests were not only violent but bloody. Inv, protesters attacked public buildings including courtrooms and libraries, clashed with security personnel and even called for a regime change.

    If the sudden spike of hunger and anger in the North after eight years of stony silence was suspicious, the call for regime change confirmed that the protests were hardly about hunger.

    The government’s response which included rounding up some of the protesters, many of them minors, and moving them to Abuja for trial ended in a fatal misstep when they were arraigned on November 1at the Federal High Court.

    The charge for treason which is a capital offense and the stringent bail conditions were always going to draw flak for the government. However, when some minors fainted ostensibly out of illness, ill-treatment and malnutrition, the uproar home and abroad was deafening, forcing the government to release them.

    Protests should never be criminalized in Nigeria whose resilient democracy is still going strong more than twenty-five years later. However, what must be done to those who engage in criminal acts, hiding under protests to unleash the worst version of themselves especially when their bodies are those of minors but their minds those of master criminals?

    Public property was destroyed in Kano State during the protests. Will no one be held responsible? If no one is punished, won’t those who never want Nigerians to protests hold up the destruction of public property as a reason to suppress protests in the future? There are landmines everywhere.

    Read Also: New Benin Republic town monarch completes traditional rites in Ila-Orangun

    The minors have been flown back to Kano and other states. The governor of Kaduna State has offered 39 of the minors who are from his state the sum of one hundred thousand Naira each, as well as smartphones while reuniting them with their families. Yet, the rush to score cheap political points must not be allowed to mask systemic issues which will explode in the future with frightening consequences if left unaddressed.

    The question must be asked: how many of the minors who participated in the protests in the North were enrolled in any school when the protests started? It is doubtful that they would have joined if they were in school on that day.

    Northern Nigeria has the highest number of Nigeria’s millions of out-of-school children. These children, many of whom beg for a living are also amenable to many crimes which no society can live with. In feting them for escaping the government’s ‘oppressive claws’, crime must not be rewarded. Beyond giving them gifts in an attempt to be considered responsive, the government must confront the human bombs biding their time to detonate.

    Failing to do this, then it is only a matter of time.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • Impact of climate change on Nigeria

    Impact of climate change on Nigeria

    • By Talent Bassey Akpan

    Sir: Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today, and Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to its effects due to its diverse ecosystems, reliance on agriculture, and significant population density. The changes in climate patterns have profound implications for the environment, economy, and public health, making it crucial for the country to understand and address these challenges effectively.

    In Nigeria, climate change has led to erratic weather patterns, manifesting in both extreme floods and prolonged droughts. Since the late 20th century, rainfall patterns across the country have become increasingly unpredictable. While some regions experience heavy rains resulting in severe flooding, others, particularly in the north, are suffering from acute water shortages and drought. These fluctuations impact agricultural output, as farmers rely on predictable rainy seasons for planting and harvesting. Consequently, food security becomes compromised, leading to higher food prices and increased levels of poverty.

    Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the GDP. However, climate change poses a severe threat to agriculture, as it disrupts the growing conditions essential for crops and livestock. Changes in rainfall patterns can lead to crop failures, while rising temperatures can reduce yields for staple crops like maize, cassava, and rice. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that many farmers employ traditional farming methods, leaving them ill-equipped to adapt to these rapid changes. As agricultural productivity declines, rural communities are further marginalized, leading to increased migration towards urban centers and creating additional strain on city resources.

    Read Also: IGP orders police officers to wear black bands over Lagbaja’s death

    The health implications of climate change in Nigeria are also far-reaching. Heatwaves, rising temperatures, and poor air quality can contribute to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, changing weather patterns can lead to the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, as the habitats for mosquitoes and other carriers expand. Food insecurity and malnutrition resulting from agricultural decline may also lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and weakened immune systems, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.

    The effects of climate change in Nigeria require a multifaceted approach, combining immediate action with long-term strategies. Efforts must include investment in climate-resilient agriculture, enhancing water management practices, and promoting sustainable land use. Furthermore, community awareness and education should be prioritized to prepare residents for potential climate impacts.

    As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and international partners are essential to safeguard the future and ensure a sustainable environment for generations to come. It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the citizens, to engage actively in combating this pressing global issue.

    •Talent Bassey Akpan,

    Bayero University, Kano.

  • Lagbaja: Farewell to a patriot

    Lagbaja: Farewell to a patriot

    • By Donald Khadi Philips

    Sir: The passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has plunged the nation into profound mourning. The shock of his untimely death reverberates through the military, his family, and across Nigeria, as citizens reflect on the loss of a man who gave his life in service to his country. His absence is deeply felt, reminding us all of the sacrifices borne by those who lead the charge to keep our nation secure.

    Today, we honour his legacy, his virtues, and the monumental impact he left on Nigeria’s military and people.

    As a soldier, Lagbaja’s rise through the ranks was a testament to his leadership and grit. In a time of complex security challenges, he led with a calm, deliberate demeanour, earning the respect and trust of his colleagues. Those under his command viewed him not only as a leader but also as a mentor who inspired them to strive for excellence in service. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s strategic mind and compassionate leadership style left an indelible mark on the lives of many, strengthening the very fabric of Nigeria’s armed forces.

    His dedication to Nigeria’s unity was unparalleled. As a soldier and a leader, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja understood that the army’s duty was not solely in defence but also in fostering unity among diverse ethnic groups. His vision extended beyond the barracks, recognizing that true security must be coupled with a sense of shared identity and purpose. He envisioned a Nigeria where every citizen could feel secure and proud of their heritage, and he laboured ceaselessly to make this vision a reality.

    Gen. Lagbaja’s death is a stark reminder of the profound loss that comes with the passing of true leaders. In an era where Nigeria faces ongoing security threats, his absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. His death is not only a personal loss for his family and friends but a national tragedy, one that underscores the weight of sacrifice carried by our military leaders. It is a loss felt deeply by all who knew him and by the many that may never have met him but benefited from his service.

    Read Also: Freeze Edo accounts, lawyers tell EFCC, Police

    As we reflect on Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s life, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude for those who dedicate their lives to our protection. His life, marked by service and sacrifice, serves as a poignant reminder of the price of security. The courage he demonstrated, the values he upheld, and the patriotism he personified, are all qualities that should inspire us as Nigerians to work toward a better and safer nation.

    In a world fraught with conflict, he remained committed to peace, hoping to leave behind a more secure Nigeria. His commitment to Nigeria’s peace, often at great personal cost, sets an example for all Nigerians to emulate. His legacy, built on a foundation of integrity and courage, will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

    The outpouring of grief following his death is a testament to the deep impact he made on those who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his colleagues, friends, and the millions of Nigerians who benefited from his leadership. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja may be gone, but his memory will continue to inspire the army and the nation he served.

    It is fitting, therefore, that we honour his memory by redoubling our efforts to achieve the ideals he held dear. The best tribute we can pay Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is to commit ourselves to the unity, peace, and security of Nigeria. His life’s work reminds us of the enduring value of service and the strength of a spirit committed to the greater good.

    In times of national loss, we are reminded of the debt we owe to our military and its leaders, who give their all so that we may live in peace. Lagbaja’s sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his legacy will serve as a beacon for future generations.

    As we say our final goodbyes to Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, let us honour his memory by upholding the values he cherished. He was a soldier, a leader, and a patriot whose life has forever enriched our nation. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to guide us toward a brighter and more secure Nigeria.

    •Donald Khadi Philips,

    University of Maiduguri

  • Trump: Forecasting trade implications for Africa

    Trump: Forecasting trade implications for Africa

    • By Kolawole Olaniyi

    Sir: Africa has greatly underperformed in the volume and content of its trade despite its population growth in the last five decades. With its exports currently accounting for a paltry 2.3 per cent of global trade, Africa’s trade has contracted (up from five per cent of global trade in the 1970s) and stagnated for over three decades and half.

    To forecast world trade implications under a second Donald Trump presidency, the best predictor would be his antecedents. Globalism discard, reciprocity and return to protectionism will be the hallmarks of Trump’s trade policy. In his first term, tariff became the tool he employed to extract new deals from other countries. His recent campaign rhetoric has been vexatious and opprobrious, especially when he constantly argues that maximising America’s economic power entails slapping levies on foreign countries.

    Many countries currently fear that the second Trump presidency will up the ante. Recall that Trump instigated a US trade war with China after his tariff on washing machines and solar panels, and then to steel and aluminium. Now, he’s planning tariffs of up to 60 per cent on made-in-China goods and also broached the idea of stripping China of its most-favoured nation status at the World Trade Organisation.

    Trump, through misleading information and flawed economic mastery, sold to his cult-like followers the notion that America’s economy is in jeopardy. By comparing America’s GDP in 1990, which was two-fifths of the G7, with now (which is half of G7), it is right to say that America has left other developed cum industrialised economies in the dust. According to The Economist, “America’s output per person is now about 30 per cent higher than in Western Europe and Canada, and 60 per cent higher than in Japan—gaps that have roughly doubled since 1990.”

    Read Also: IGP orders police officers to wear black bands over Lagbaja’s death

    Since 2020, its economy has grown by 10 per cent while other G7 members have experienced sluggish growth. Some have escaped recession by a whisker, while their economies are topsy-turvy.

    In fairness to the Trump administration, it began drafting a Free Trade Agreement with Kenya until President Joe Biden came in and set it aside in favour of the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership. Trump did unveil a ‘new Africa Strategy’ to advance US trade and commercial ties with African nations. Its surreptitious underpinning was to counter the influence of America’s adversaries like China and Russia on the continent. At the announcement of the strategy at the Heritage Foundation in Washington DC, then National Security Advisor, Ambassador John Bolton, said,  “Great power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa. They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States.”

    With Trump emerging victorious, he will compel African countries to jettison Chinese products and embrace America’s as a quid pro quo for trade assistance. In the account of Martin Kimani, the Executive Director, NYU’s Centre on International Cooperation, on Trump’s eccentric way of making deals, he said, “When Trump met the then President Kenyatta in the Oval Office, the first question he asked him right after the courtesies is, how come you’re not doing business with American companies.” Trump presidency will urge the African countries to reduce import restrictions on US goods and agricultural products, especially the ones that face ‘unscientific barriers’ and put American farmers and producers at a disadvantage. Based on his modus operandi, any African country that fails to amend unfavourable trade policy to American companies risks brutal trade sanctions.

    •Kolawole Olaniyi,

     olaniyi.kolawole7@gmail.com

  • Nigerians and social media usage

    Nigerians and social media usage

    Sir: The advent of social media has been no doubt life transforming and life defining for many people around the globe. Nigerians are no exceptions. Even in liberal democracy, there is a recognition of the need for laws regulating social media because truth is, social media has not just granted unprecedented access to information and communication to global citizens, it has also become a favorite playground for global master criminals.

    Thus, as many life-changing connections have been made on social media have been directly counteracted by the many times it has been used for destructive purposes.

    According to according to Cable.co.uk, and We Are Social in 2024 report, Nigeria ranks in the top five for countries with most social media usage daily. Despite Nigeria’s population of about 250 million people, and teeming number of young people, this is still huge. The report states that Nigerians spend an average of three hours, twenty-three minutes daily on social media. With three hours, forty-three minutes on social media daily, Kenyans spend the most time on social media every day.

    Should this be a worry?

    In a country where cost and access to the internet remains prohibitive, it is a wonder that Nigerians are making efforts to stay connected.

    This connection has changed lives in Nigeria by redefining how Nigerians can connect with each other. It has given many young and budding entrepreneurs and creatives the opportunity to showcase their talents to the world, bringing life-changing incomes along with it.

    Read Also: Nigeria needs $10b annually to achieve SDG 2030 – UN

    But it has not been all good. Just as social media has been an unprecedented opportunity to connect, giving people a voice to change their lives, it has also been a breeding ground for fake news and hate speech which have proven particularly destructive of social ethos, threatening the very foundations of civilization.

    Very often on social media, a spark of fake news or hate speech is ignited, and because the space is particularly attuned to lies and misinformation, a firestorm of lies and hate is soon set off, spreading fast and incinerating lives and reputations in the process.

    While social media has been transformational thus far, Nigerians must also recognize the need to regulate what is at once a bounteous harvest and a bombshell. Agents of mischief whose ultimate aim is the destabilization of society and government abound on social media. Discretion is the better part of valour and in a space as numerous as space itself in the words of Emily Dickinson, prudence is a prize as well as the podium. It is also the price users should pay for the infinite possibilities available there.

    •Kene Obiezu,keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • On Makinde’s rumoured presidential ambition

    On Makinde’s rumoured presidential ambition

    Sir: Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has, in recent times, made headlines for what many political observers consider his budding ambition to contest for the presidency in 2027 general elections. Though still speculative, a closer analysis of his track record, political strategy, and the broader national context reveals that his presidential ambition may be doomed from the start, or as some political pundits argue, “dead on arrival.”

    Makinde’s foray into presidential politics raises questions about his readiness and credibility to lead a country as complex and diverse as Nigeria. While ambition is not inherently negative, his approach seems to prioritize personal political advancement over the public good. His tenure as the governor of Oyo State has been marred by controversies, governance deficits, and accusations of self-serving behaviour, which, if unresolved, may severely undermine any hope of national political success.

    One of the most glaring weaknesses in Makinde’s presidential bid is the state of governance in Oyo State under his leadership. Despite his initial popularity upon assuming office in 2019, Makinde’s administration has failed to live up to expectations. Accusations of neglecting key areas of governance, such as healthcare, education, and food security, have become common refrains from critics and constituents alike. Makinde’s penchant for investing in high-profile projects has raised concerns about the sustainability of his policies and their impact on the common people.

     The governor’s recent actions—such as his establishment of the PDP Southwest headquarters in Ibadan—point to a man more focused on consolidating power and positioning himself for higher office than on addressing the concerns of his constituents. His efforts to secure a pliable successor in Oyo State are similarly viewed as an attempt to protect himself from accountability once his governorship ends.

    This pursuit of self-preservation is not lost on the Nigerian electorate, many of whom are growing weary of politicians who seek personal gain at the expense of the public good. Makinde’s disregard for the needs of Oyo State while chasing after national relevance is seen as a symptom of the broader problem of political opportunism that has long plagued Nigeria. His lack of focus on governance raises serious doubts about his motivations and whether he is truly capable of leading Nigeria.

    Read Also: Makinde approves N80,000 minimum wage for Oyo workers

    Another factor that renders Makinde’s presidential ambition dead on arrival is his antiparty activities in the 2023 presidential election and his contribution to the fractures within his party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Makinde’s anti-party activities have left him isolated, with many within the PDP viewing him as an opportunist who is willing to sacrifice party loyalty for personal gain. This internal division will likely come back to haunt him if he seeks the party’s nomination for the presidency in 2027.

    Complicating matters further is the fact that President Bola Tinubu, also from the Southwest, will still be a major force in Nigerian politics come 2027. Makinde, who also hails from the same geopolitical zone, will face the formidable challenge of convincing voters and party leaders that he, rather than Tinubu’s APC machinery, deserves their support. With Tinubu’s established political network and influence in the Southwest, Makinde’s chances of rallying the region behind him appear slim.

    Moreover, the political landscape in Nigeria is such that regional support plays a critical role in any successful presidential campaign. Makinde’s strained relationships with other regional power brokers and his inconsistent party loyalty mean that he lacks the political alliances needed to mount a credible challenge on a national scale. His ambition to compete against Tinubu for influence in the Southwest, while also courting support from other regions, appears to be an uphill battle.

    Nigeria’s political landscape is increasingly complex, and the country’s challenges require leaders who can navigate these complexities with a clear vision, competence, and a commitment to public service. Unfortunately for Makinde, his track record suggests that his ambition is driven more by quest for personal gain than by a genuine desire to lead Nigeria toward a better future. His presidential aspiration is, by all accounts, dead on arrival.

    •Barrister Adisa Atolagbe, Abuja.

  • Postgraduate assessment: A vote for take-home examinations

    Postgraduate assessment: A vote for take-home examinations

    Sir: In a progressive and intellectually mature society, postgraduate students should be entrusted with more academic freedom and respect, especially during examinations. The stringent supervision and overly controlled conditions of Master’s and PhD exams in Nigeria stand in stark contrast to the principles of independence and critical thinking these degrees are meant to nurture. Instead of enforcing strict exam-room protocols, universities should allow postgraduate students to complete their exams under more flexible conditions, such as take-home formats that emphasize understanding and application over rote memorization.

    During my doctoral coursework at Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun between 2019 and 2020, I experienced the advantages of take-home exams. These exams encouraged me to dive deeper into topics, consult various sources, and structure my responses in a way that showcased a true grasp of the material rather than simply recalling facts. This format allowed for a richer, more advanced learning experience and taught me to handle knowledge responsibly and independently. Such a model fosters academic maturity, urging students to think critically, manage their time effectively, and develop arguments backed by comprehensive research—all essential skills for any serious researcher.

    Nigeria’s educational system needs a revamp to align with global trends that increasingly prioritize practical, research-based, and applied learning. The current system treats postgraduate students with an outdated level of mistrust, assuming they lack the integrity to complete exams independently. This lack of confidence not only demeans students but also fails to reflect the essence of postgraduate studies, where students are expected to be self-motivated and ethically responsible.

    Implementing take-home exams for Master’s and PhD programs would convey an implicit respect for students’ maturity and commitment to their fields. This approach would allow students to explore complex ideas with the resources needed to craft thoughtful responses, ultimately elevating the quality of academic discourse. It would shift the focus from merely “passing exams” to genuinely mastering subjects. When students are allowed this freedom, they are more likely to pursue knowledge with passion, creativity, and depth, leading to more meaningful research outcomes.

    Opponents of take-home exams often argue that such flexibility would lead to higher instances of academic dishonesty. While the concern is valid, universities can implement measures to mitigate cheating, such as using plagiarism-detection software or structuring questions that require original, critical analysis rather than straightforward answers. Moreover, fostering a culture of academic integrity from the undergraduate level up would make dishonesty less tempting, as students would have internalized the importance of honest scholarship.

    Read Also: Late Lagbaja’s hometown suspends anniversary indefinitely

    Granting postgraduate students’ greater academic freedom would have a profound impact on Nigeria’s academic standards. The trust given to students would likely be reciprocated with an increased sense of responsibility and accountability. As they progress through their programs, students would grow as thinkers and scholars, better equipped to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape. This shift would also make Nigerian institutions more competitive on the global stage, aligning with educational models that regard postgraduate students as responsible, capable adults who are trusted to handle their academic obligations with integrity.

    In my honest opinion, Nigeria’s educational system must evolve to respect the maturity of postgraduate students. Embracing take-home exams as a standard for Master’s and PhD students would not only reflect confidence in students’ abilities but also promote a more rigorous, research-oriented academic environment. When the system heralds a culture of trust and responsibility, Nigerian universities can truly empower the next generation of thinkers, researchers, and leaders.

    •Imikan Nkopuruk,Abuja

  • Open letter to education minister

    Open letter to education minister

    • By Olayinka Iroye

    Sir: On behalf of Nigerians and the academic community, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. Nigerians are confident that under your leadership, the education sector will witness transformative and much-needed reforms.

    As you assume this critical office, I urge you to address an urgent issue affecting many young Nigerians: the restriction on mobilization for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) imposed on Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates from Nigerian Polytechnics who completed their National Diploma (ND) on a part-time basis but transitioned to full-time HND programme. Despite their dedication and academic compliance, these students now face exclusion from NYSC mobilization due to a recent policy shift—a situation that has caused widespread disappointment and frustration for them, their families, and the society at large.

    This restriction has ignited a significant outcry across various platforms, with voices from scholars, media, student bodies such as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) all appealing for a review of this policy. The affected students, many of whom have waited nearly a year find themselves ensnared by unanticipated policy changes. They deserve fair consideration, not penalization for following an educational path approved by the system itself.

    The implications of this exclusion are severe and far-reaching. For the students, this policy casts a shadow over their hard work and aspirations. For their families, who have made substantial financial sacrifices, the delay compounds frustrations. On a broader level, the exclusion signals a troubling message to young Nigerians, creating doubts about the credibility of our educational system and diminishing confidence in the polytechnic pathway.

    Read Also: Nigeria, ECOWAS to improve energy data methods

    Moreover, the resulting disruptions in polytechnics across the nation are a cause for concern. Protests, demonstrations, and a growing sense of alienation among students threaten the academic and administrative stability within these institutions. If left unaddressed, this issue could undermine campus peace, exacerbate disenchantment among students, and disrupt the broader learning environment.

    Honourable Minister, as you embark on the mission to strengthen Nigeria’s education sector, I respectfully request that you consider addressing this matter as one of your immediate priorities. We appeal to you to direct JAMB, NYSC, and other relevant agencies to mobilize these graduates in the upcoming NYSC batch. Such a decision would bring swift relief to affected students and their families, while demonstrating your commitment to equity, inclusivity, and the welfare of Nigeria’s youth.

    Addressing this issue with compassion will underscore your dedication to fairness and inclusivity in Nigerian education. With your leadership, I believe a fair and positive outcome is within reach.

    Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved appointment.

    •Olayinka Iroye,

     The Federal Polytechnic Offa