The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Abiodun, First Lady, Osoba to get TASFUED’s honorary doctorates Jan. 29

    Abiodun, First Lady, Osoba to get TASFUED’s honorary doctorates Jan. 29

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and former Ogun State governor and elder statesman, Chief Olusegun Osoba, have been listed to get Doctor of Science (D.Sc., Honoris Causa) during the 17th convocation of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASFUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, on January 29.

    The institution’s management announced this in a statement by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dapo Oke.

    The statement described Governor Abiodun, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s wife, and Aremo Osoba as “exceptional individuals” who = deserve the honours because of their outstanding contributions to their fields and significant impact on society.

    The TASFUED management said it felt honoured to recognise these outstanding individuals whose achievements inspire others.

    The university stressed that the honorary degrees recognised their exceptional contributions and solidified its commitment to excellence.

    READ ALSO: Why Northern Nigeria must put education first

    Explaining why it will honour Abiodun, the institution said, besides being the governor of the state since 2019 and having been re-elected in 2023, he was a successful entrepreneur and former Chairman of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

    TASFUED said Abiodun brought his wealth of private and public sector experience to his role.

    It stated: “His administration is defined by the “ISEYA” agenda, focusing on Infrastructure, Social Welfare, Education, Youth Development, Agriculture, and Governance, which has driven significant projects, like the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport, affordable housing, and strengthened public systems.

    “Governor Abiodun’s transformative leadership has earned Ogun State recognition as a leading industrial and investment destination. His impact is validated by numerous distinguished awards, including Governor of the Year honours from Independent and The Sun newspapers in 2023, the Silverbird Man of the Year award and, recently, 2025 accolades for Digital Transformation and as Best Governor in Enterprise and Investment Promotion.

    “These honours reflect the substantive progress and empowerment his governance has achieved for the people of Ogun State.

    “This award is in recognition of his notable strides in governance, education and humanitarian efforts. The university takes special cognisance of his passion for education and numerous contributions in reviving Ogun State’s legacy and a model of progressive governance. His modest achievements and accomplishments represent the ideals of integrity and selflessness, which our University stands for.

    The history of the institution will not be complete without mentioning the fact that his administration kick-started the process that initiated the transition of the university into a federal institution, the transformation that will bring long-term significance to education in Ogun State.

    “He is to be awarded Doctor of Science ( D.sc. Ed.) Honoris Causa in Education Management.”

    The statement described Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a philanthropist who has supported the cause of women and the girl-child through her New Era Foundation, which also focuses on youth development and public awareness in environmental health, Women’s Health and Education Foundation.

    It noted that the foundation is also aimed at empowering women and children through healthcare and education.

    “As a senator who represented Lagos Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2023, during her time in the Senate, she served on the Committees on Health and Women’s Affairs and championed causes related to education, healthcare accessibility, and community service.

    In her role as the First Lady, she continues to advocate for women’s rights and youth.

    “She is to be Awarded a  Doctor of Science (D.Sc Ed.) Honoris Causa in Childhood Education,” the statement added.

    TASFUED described Osoba as a “distinguished media icon, statesman, and administrator of uncommon clarity of purpose”.

    The institution also described him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history of public service, journalism, democratic struggle, and nation-building.

    “Aremo Osoba stands as one of the most respected voices in Nigeria’s political and civic sphere. 

    “Aremo Osoba served twice as Executive Governor of Ogun State, first in the Third Republic, and again, in the Fourth Republic. His tenure was marked by purposeful governance, massive rural and urban development, infrastructural renewal, community empowerment, and policies rooted in compassion and accountability. His legacy in Ogun State remains visible, meaningful, and celebrated.

    “A consummate democrat, His Excellency played a pivotal role in the struggle leading to the restoration of civilian rule in Nigeria. Aremo Olusegun Osoba is to be awarded a Doctor of Science (D.Sc. Ed.) Honoris Causa in Political Science.

    “The history of the university will not be complete without mentioning the fact that his administration kick-started the process that eventually snowballed into the transformation of the old College of Education into the Tai Solarin University of Education through signing into law the Bill that first made the college a degree-awarding institution in affiliation with the University of Ibadan.”

  • FUOYE approves 25-year strategic plan to safeguard varsity’s stability

    FUOYE approves 25-year strategic plan to safeguard varsity’s stability

    • …lauds Prof. Fasina’s transformative leadership

    The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) and its Governing Council have endorsed a 25-year transformation agenda that positions the institution to become a digitally driven, entrepreneurially oriented, and globally connected university.

    The consensus was reached during a two-day Council–Management Strategic Retreat held at Elomaz Hotel, Lagos, where participants affirmed that the path to long-term relevance requires a comprehensive shift in academic delivery, institutional culture, and operational systems.

    According to a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Foluso Ogunmodede, the retreat also emphasised strengthening FUOYE’s financial sustainability through diversified revenue streams, including endowments, alumni contributions, public-private partnerships, grants, and enterprise-based income initiatives, while maintaining affordability and broad access for students.

    At the retreat entitled, “FUOYE beyond today: Strategic Alignment, Governance, Partnerships and Financial Sustainability for the next 25 years –2025-2050,” the management of the institution lauded FUOYE outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina for demonstrating what was described as “commendable leadership throughout his tenure during which the university recorded significant milestones in academic development, research visibility, infrastructural expansion and overall institutional strengthening.”

    Read Also: Protest rocks FUOYE as NYCN demands VC’s suspension

    Prof Fasina was specifically commended for his contributions to the growth and stability of Federal University Oye Ekiti since he joined it about five years ago.

    Also praised was the incoming Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, especially his seamless, transparent, and credible appointment, which was widely recognised as a model for good governance and due process in university administration.

    Although both the outgoing and the incoming Vice-Chancellors were actively involved in the initiation and development of FUOYE’s 25-year strategic plan, a factor considered critical for leadership continuity, institutional stability, and the smooth and effective implementation, the proposed 25-year strategic plan would provide a realistic, phased, and costed roadmap for FUOYE’s future development.

    However, in a communique, the Council-Management resolved to work collaboratively with a view to ensuring that FUOYE by 2050 would stand amongst the world’s leading universities, digitally empowered, financially sustainable, ethically grounded, and socially responsive.

    Accordingly, they resolved amongst others, that, “The Federal University Oye Ekiti would deliberately transition into a digitally driven, entrepreneurially oriented and globally connected university over the next twenty-five years in line with the vision articulated in the strategic plan;

    “The university shall strengthen financial sustainability and resilience through the diversification of revenue sources, including endowments, alumni giving, public-private partnerships, grants, and enterprise-based income streams, while maintaining affordability and access.

    “Governance systems and processes shall be reinforced to ensure clear role delineation, transparency, accountability, ethical leadership, and performance-based management across all levels of the university; and

    “Risk management, campus safety, and institutional resilience shall be mainstreamed into strategic planning and operational decision-making to safeguard the university’s stability, reputation, and long-term sustainability.

  • UNN Governing Council, SUG agree on 60% increment in sundry charges

    UNN Governing Council, SUG agree on 60% increment in sundry charges

    The Management of the University of Nigeria, acting on behalf of its Governing Council, has approved a 60 per cent increase in sundry charges for the 2025/2026 academic session, following extensive consultations with the Student Union Government (SUG) of the Nsukka and Enugu campuses.

    The decision represents a significant reduction from the 100 per cent increment earlier proposed by the Council and reflects a shared commitment to dialogue, compassion, and collective responsibility. 

    Under the new arrangement, both fresh and returning students will pay a 60 per cent increase on existing sundry charge, amounting to a 40 per cent concession from the initial proposal.

    According to the acting Public Relations Officer of UNN, Inya Agha Egwu, the agreement was reached on Friday after a meeting between the University Management and SUG representatives, including the SUG Presidents of Nsukka and Enugu campuses, Speakers of the Legislative Arms, and the SUG Senate President. 

    He stated that a detailed breakdown of the revised charges, disaggregated by faculty and level, will be communicated to the University community in the coming days.

    The resolution culminates weeks of sustained negotiations that began in December 2025. During the engagements, student leaders explained that they revised their initial position of a 30 per cent increment in recognition of prevailing fees in comparable universities and the urgent need to upgrade infrastructure at the institution.

    Prior to Friday’s agreement, the University Council had already moderated its stance from a 100 per cent increment to 90 per cent, before acceding to the students’ plea for a 60 per cent increase.

    Read Also: JAMB directs UNN, others to reverse irregular admissions

    Both parties subsequently signed a formal agreement outlining key terms, including the option for students to pay the new charges in two instalments across the two semesters to ease the financial burden on parents and guardians. 

    The agreement also provides that there will be no increment in students’ accommodation fees for the 2025/2026 academic session.

    At the conclusion of the meeting, the SUG leadership commended the Governing Council for its understanding and responsiveness, while urging students to remain calm, law-abiding, and fully compliant with the terms of the agreement. 

    The union also cautioned against actions capable of disrupting peace on campus and warned external elements to refrain from interfering in students’ affairs or inciting unrest under any guise.

    The University Management reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, student welfare, and the continuous development of the institution in the collective interest of all stakeholders.

  • Okpebholo named Governor of the year in education

    Okpebholo named Governor of the year in education

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has been awarded Governor of the Year by New Telegraph Newspapers.

    The award is in recognition of the giant strides his administration has made in the education sector.

    The award will be conferred on him during the award ceremonies coming up later in the year.

    Within the first year of the administration, it has constructed over 100 schools, employed over 6,000 teachers and increased subvention to tertiary institutions which saw Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma having its subvention increased from N41 million monthly to N500 million.

    Listing some other achievements of the Governor, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, mentioned the construction of new workshops, procurement of sophisticated equipment and strengthening technical colleges across the state.

    READ ALSO: Ibadan Bodija explosion victims urge Makinde to use N30bn FG support for compensation

    ” The state government has also signed international partnerships that have seen many teachers and students from the state going abroad to study and learn. The governor has also increased the subvention to Edo University,  Iyamho from N25 million monthly to N250 million. We have done the digitalisation of certificates across schools, and anybody anywhere can have access to their certificates.

    ” There is also the construction of six-kilometre internal roads in the only state owned polytechnic in Usen after 23 years of its existence via partnership with the NDDC. We have introduced bursary payment to students after 20 years. There is also the ongoing dualisation of Ekpoma Road with concrete and fixing of street lights with support from President Bola Tinubu to ease the age-long suffering of both students and commuters

    ” Also, it is the administration that resolved the predicament of 128 medical students of AAU who could not be inducted four years after  graduation. The same way the government resolved the issue of 810 nursing graduates of the university who were not inducted. Similarly, over 1,000 students who had irregularities in their admission processes with JAMB were unable to be mobilised for the NYSC scheme until the governor stepped in.

    ” The government is not relenting as there is the ongoing construction of 600 hostel capacity in AAU, as well as the ongoing work on two in one 500 sitting capacity lecture theatre in AAU. Teachers welfare is also top priority and our teachers have never had it so good. There is also this strategic partnership with NELFUND to ensure no child in Edo tertiary institution is sent home because of  school fees,” he said.

    Iyamu noted that the recognition given Governor Okpebholo was well deserved and that it would spur him to do more, adding that more are still coming.

  • FULL LIST: Fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students in 2026

    FULL LIST: Fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students in 2026

    Several fully funded scholarship opportunities are available for Nigerian students in 2026, covering undergraduates, masters, doctoral, and postdoctoral studies across multiple regions. These scholarships are designed to reduce financial barriers while offering access to world-class education and professional development.

    Here are the fully funded scholarship opportunities you should look out for:

    Global & Intercontinental

    * Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2026 – Deadline: February 27, 2026
    * Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship 2026/2027 – Deadline: January 31, 2026
    * Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026 – Deadline: January 14, 2026

    Europe

    * Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters 2026

      * JANUS (Applied Security and Defence) – Deadline: March 6, 2026
      * META (Manufacturing 4.0) – Deadline: February 15, 2026
      * GLOBED (Education Policies) – Deadline: February 12, 2026

    * Africa Scholarship Programme (ASP), Wageningen University, Netherlands – Deadline: February 1, 2026

    * DAAD Scholarships (Germany) 2026/2027 – Deadlines vary by course

    * Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026

    READ ALSO: Ibadan Bodija explosion victims urge Makinde to use N30bn FG support for compensation

    United Kingdom

    * University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship – Deadline: March 31, 2026
    * University of Southampton GREAT Scholarship (£10,000 tuition support)
    * Chevening Scholarship (UK Government) – 2026/2027 applications open later in 2026

    North America & Australia

    * Australia Awards Scholarships 2026
    * Knight-Hennessy Scholars, Stanford University (USA)
    * McCall MacBain Scholarship, McGill University (Canada)

    Regional & Special Interest

    * Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Scholarship, Qatar
    * TaiwanICDF International Higher Education Scholarship – Deadline: March 15, 2026
    * Nigerian Law School Scholarship Programme 2026

    Together, these scholarships present valuable opportunities for Nigerian students seeking fully funded education abroad and at home in 2026, across diverse fields and academic levels.

  • Quality education will end insecurity —Akande 

    Quality education will end insecurity —Akande 

    …’institutions lowering cut-off marks will make Nigeria students less competitive globally’

    The pioneer chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande has said that investing in quality education remains a lasting solution to insecurity in Nigeria. 

    This is just as he warned institutions that lowering cut-off marks in tertiary institutions would weaken academic standards and leave Nigerian students ill-prepared to compete with their counterparts globally. 

    Speaking on Friday in his hometown, Ila-Orangun at an event to mark his 87th birthday, added that merit-based admission and rigorous assessment are essential for producing graduates who can thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

    Akande, a former governor of Osun State, proffering solutions to challenges of insecurity, he said the menace cannot be eradicated overnight or by cutting corners but can be gradually eliminated through quality education.

    Now look at Boko Haram, banditry, Kidnapping let people study very deep, all of this insecurity will become a thing of the past. 

    ”Although, your generation cannot eradicate it, it can be eradicated gradually if you adopt deep education.”

    He cautioned that that lowering the cut-off marks of institutions will not improve educational standards in Nigeria, adding that the practice will make the country less competitive globally.

    Akande, a former governor of the state, said, “Good education will make you competitive with the global world if you offer 25% as pass mark in the University, you can’t compete with China that will expect you to score 80% where they do absolute meritocracy

    “When you cut corners pass 25%, admit 20%, you cannot compare with people like China, who if you have never achieved you can’t become a member of the Communist party and only members of the Communist party can vote and be voted for, this is absolute merit.

    “Here in Nigeria, it’s cut corners, Americans threatened the other time, went to Venezuela to pick the president, and take him away, thats power of knowledge which we are trying to cheat by saying things call them 25% 20%. You won’t have that knowledge, you won’t be able to compete with the advanced world and you will be enslaved, your land will be taken over by the strangers.”

    Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, described the event as a rare privilege to celebrate a life wholly dedicated to the service of the nation, marked by integrity, courage and devotion to democratic ideals.

    The President who was represented by the Secretary to the Federation, George Akume, said,“This is a privilege to honour and celebrate the live that have been dedicated to the service of our nation, the live filled with humility and unwavering Commitment to democracy.

    “The history of our Nations progress towards democracy is incomplete without the special place preserved for you.”

  • Varsity names male hostel after A’Ibom Reps Idem

    Varsity names male hostel after A’Ibom Reps Idem

    Southern Atlantic University Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has named its ultramodern male hostel after the lawmaker representing Orukanam/Ukanafun federal constituency, Rt. Hon Uyime.

    Uyime was honoured for his various human capacity interventions in education, skills development and entrepreneurial supports to hundreds of his constituents.

    Founder of the institution, Pastor Bassey James said the naming of the male hostel building was was a well thought out decision to appreciate the contributions of the federal legislator to human empowerment.

    According to James, Idem is one of the Akwa Ibom federal lawmakers who has impacted lives of his constituents positively hence deserves to be honoured.

    Read Also: 2027: Reps Deputy Speaker drums support for Tinubu, says Igbo must extend handshake to southwest

    “Southern Atlantic University thrives on merit. It recognizes and appreciates people who sacrifice their resources for the upliftment of the society.

    “Giving back to the society is what Rt. Hon Unyime Idem is known for. Our institution has observed over time the many human capacity programmes carried out by the lawmaker.

    “Through him, thousands of Akwa Ibom children have been trained and certificated in various profitable skills including the oil and gas sector.

    “He has also given scholarships to students in tertiary institutions to study at home and abroad. I am not even talking about the business grants he has given to small and medium scale businesses.

    “Southern Atlantic University is very proud to identify with Rt. Hon Uyime Idem hence the decision by the authorities of the University to name it’s male hostel after him.

    “We hereby encourage other political office holders to emulate Rt. Hon Uyime Idem so that we can a better society where life enhancement opportunities and privileges are made accessible to all including the less privileged”.

  • IMSU scholar Nwaeke Ezekiel bags academic honour, eyes AI advancement

    IMSU scholar Nwaeke Ezekiel bags academic honour, eyes AI advancement

    Imo State University (IMSU) graduate, Nwaeke Ezekiel Abure, has successfully completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, a feat that underscores his academic excellence and consistency throughout his undergraduate studies.

    The achievement marks a significant milestone in Ezekiel’s academic journey and reflects his ability to thrive within the demanding academic environment of Imo State University, particularly in the Department of Computer Science, which is widely regarded for its intensive and technically rigorous curriculum. 

    The programme exposes students to advanced computing concepts such as algorithms, software engineering, data structures and emerging technologies.

    Graduating with a Second Class Upper Division places Ezekiel among the top-performing students in his cohort and demonstrates a strong command of both theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills required in today’s technology-driven landscape.

    Speaking on the milestone, Ezekiel described the experience as a defining chapter in his personal and professional development.

    “The journey through the Computer Science programme at IMSU was as demanding as it was rewarding. This achievement represents more than a degree; it reflects years of discipline, resilience, and deep engagement with the logic that powers modern technology,” he said.

    Beyond academics, Ezekiel distinguished himself through active participation in the technology industry while still an undergraduate. 

    He worked professionally with HelpmeAI Solutions, a company focused on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, gaining hands-on industry experience alongside his studies.

    Read Also: IMSU lecturer, five others die in auto crash 

    According to him, balancing academic responsibilities with professional work was challenging but highly beneficial.

    “Maintaining a Second Class Upper Division while working within a fast-paced tech environment required an exceptional level of focus. It pushed me to apply classroom theories directly to real-world AI challenges, which ultimately strengthened my understanding and confidence,” he stated.

    Observers within Nigeria’s growing technology ecosystem have continued to emphasise the importance of graduates who combine strong academic foundations with practical industry exposure. 

    Ezekiel’s academic distinction and professional engagement align with this emerging standard, positioning him among a new generation of Nigerian tech professionals driving innovation.

    Reflecting on the broader impact of his academic journey, Ezekiel noted that quality university training remains critical to national development. 

    “Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and solid academic training from institutions like IMSU remains critical. The skills I developed systems thinking, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning will guide my work as I focus on building solutions that address real social and business challenges through AI,” he said.

    With his undergraduate studies now complete, Ezekiel is expected to leverage both his academic achievement and industry experience to support the expansion of HelpmeAI Solutions, contributing to the growth of artificial intelligence and digital innovation across West Africa.

  • Oborevwori approves minor cabinet reshuffle, nominates three for DELSU governing council

    Oborevwori approves minor cabinet reshuffle, nominates three for DELSU governing council

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle involving four commissioners.

    According to a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, the redeployments are as follows: Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka has been moved from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal to the Ministry of Energy.

    Hon. Sunday Tataobuzogwu has been redeployed from the Ministry of Energy to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal.

    Mrs. Rose Ezewu has been transferred from the Ministry of Secondary Education to the Ministry of Primary Education.

    Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu has been moved from the Ministry of Primary Education to the Ministry of Secondary Education.

    The SSG noted that the redeployment of the commissioners takes immediate effect.

    In a related development, Oborevwori has also approved the nomination of three individuals to the Governing Council of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.

    The nominees are Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas; Rt. Hon. Frank Enekorogha and Mr. Charles Ajuyah (SAN).

    Emu said the inauguration date for the newly nominated Governing Council members will be announced in due course.

  • Don  urges Fed Govt to declare January 15 public holiday

    Don  urges Fed Govt to declare January 15 public holiday

    A military sociologist, Dr. Fisayo Ajala, has urged the Federal Government to declare January 15, Nigeria’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, a national public holiday.

    He warned that the country risks trivialising the sacrifices of its fallen heroes by treating the day as a routine working day.

    Ajala said the continued confinement of Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) to military barracks and official ceremonies has weakened its national impact and denied citizens the opportunity to fully reflect on the human cost of war and insecurity.

    “Beyond wreath-laying and parades, the day does not speak powerfully to the average Nigerian,” he said.

     “When a nation does not pause to remember its fallen defenders, it slowly erodes the value it places on sacrifice, service and national unity.”

    Observed annually on January 15, AFRD honours Nigerian soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of the country and recognises serving personnel and veterans who operate under harsh climatic, psychological and physical conditions.

    The date also marks the formal end of the Nigerian Civil War following the surrender of the secessionist Republic of Biafra on January 15, 1970.

    Ajala argued that declaring the day a public holiday would elevate it from a symbolic military ritual to a powerful national moment of remembrance, similar to Independence Day celebrations.

    “Nigeria is battling insecurity, mistrust and social fragmentation,” he said. “A national day of remembrance would remind us that, despite our differences, there are men and women who stand between the nation and chaos.”

    He stressed that Nigeria’s low-intensity conflicts have affected entire communities, not just soldiers, making civilian participation in remembrance both necessary and overdue.

    “This is not only about the military. Civilians live with the consequences of conflict, displacement, trauma and loss. Armed Forces Remembrance Day should reflect that shared reality,” Ajala said.

    According to him, a public holiday would also help repair strained civil–military relations shaped by memories of military rule and allegations of human rights abuses.

    “Honouring sacrifice does not excuse wrongdoing,” he noted. “But remembrance creates space for accountability, healing and a more honest relationship between the military and the people it is sworn to protect.”

    Ajala said broader national observance would shine a long-overdue spotlight on military families, widows of fallen heroes, wounded soldiers, veterans living with combat trauma, and children who grow up bearing the silent cost of service.

    “Too many veterans return home to neglect, unemployment and psychological scars,” he said. “A public holiday would humanise the soldier beyond the uniform and force national attention on their welfare.”

    He added that the day could become a platform for policy debates, fundraising and structured support for veterans, in line with practices in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Ghana, where remembrance days are nationally observed.

    Ajala also cited recent civil–military engagement initiatives as proof that public interaction builds trust.

    He pointed to medical outreaches, road construction and education support by the Nigerian Army, as well as open-day programmes such as the Nigerian Air Force’s “Come See Your Air Force” and Nigerian Navy ship tours, which attracted large civilian participation and rekindled national pride.

    “When the military opens its doors, Nigerians respond,” he said. “A public holiday would institutionalise that connection.”

    He insisted that Armed Forces Remembrance Day deserves to move beyond hashtags and ceremonial speeches into schools, workplaces, religious centres and public life across the country.

    “January 15 should be a day when the nation stops, remembers and reflects,” Ajala said. 

    “Declaring it a public holiday would be a powerful statement that Nigeria truly honours those who gave everything to defend its sovereignty.”

    Ajala holds a PhD in Sociology from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, and is a Visiting Research Fellow at the Centre for Death and Society, University of Bath, England. His research focuses on military sociology, conflict, peace and security, with published works in several international academic and public policy platforms.