Category: Education

  • Govt introduces new measures to curb examination malpractices

    Govt introduces new measures to curb examination malpractices

    The Federal Government has announced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at eliminating examination malpractices in the 2026 and beyond.

    This measure is geared towards eliminating examination malpractices in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations.

    This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.

    Boriowo said the new initiative was part of the ongoing reforms to strengthen credibility, transparency, and public confidence in Nigeria’s assessment system.

    She quoted the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, to have said that the ministry was intensifying oversight and deploying targeted strategies to safeguard the integrity of national examinations.

     Among the key measures, he said, was the introduction of enhanced questions’ randomisation and serialisation mechanisms.

    He said while all candidates would answer the same examination questions, the sequencing and arrangement would differ for each candidate, ensuring that every student wrote a unique version of the examination and significantly reducing opportunities for collusion.

    Alausa reaffirmed the ministry’s strict policy prohibiting the transfer of candidates at the Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) level.

     “This directive, already communicated through an official circular, will be rigorously enforced to prevent last-minute school changes often associated with examination malpractices.

    “To further ensure transparency, a new national continuous assessment guidelines have been developed for immediate implementation.

    Read Also: JAMB’s crusade against examination malpractices

    “All examination bodies (WAEC, NECO, NBAIS e.t.c.) must strictly follow the standardised submission deadlines for each academic period,” he said.

    Alausa said the submission windows for first term continuous assessment would be in January while that of the second and third term continuous assessments would be in April and August respectively.

    According to him, the timelines are mandatory and designed to ensure consistency, data integrity, and prompt processing of continuous assessment records across the country.

    In addition, Alausa said the ministry was also introducing a unique Examination Learners’ Identity Number for all candidates.

     The identifier, he said, would enable effective tracking of learners throughout the examination process, strengthen monitoring and accountability, and support long-term reforms in assessment, certification, and data management.

    He assured the stakeholders that examination administration would be conducted under strengthened supervision and coordination with relevant examination bodies to ensure strict compliance with established guidelines and ethical standards.

     He added that these measures reflected the Federal Government’s resolve to conduct examinations that are credible, fair, and reflective of global best practices, while addressing Nigeria’s unique educational realities.

     He, however, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working closely with all examination bodies, state governments, school administrators, parents, and candidates to ensure the successful implementation of these strategies and the smooth conduct of the 2026 examinations nationwide.

  • TETfund supplies 20 electric tricycles to Unilorn

    TETfund supplies 20 electric tricycles to Unilorn

    The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has taken delivery of 20 electric tricycles from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund).

    The gesture is aimed at assisting the university to ease its transportation challenges, Vice Chancellor of the university Prof Wahab Egbewole has said.

    He appreciated the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the assistance.

    He reiterated the  commitment of the university to resolving the transportation challenges on campus with the official unveiling of five new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and the electric tricycles.

    He said that the university was still expecting the delivery of additional CNG buses as earlier promised.

    Prof Egbowole said this during the unveiling ceremony held at the university’s new park.

    explained that the transportation difficulties experienced in 2025 were largely a consequence of the relocation of the university motor park, a decision he described as deliberate, strategic, and necessary for the long-term development of the institution.        

    While acknowledging that the decision initially came with challenges and resistance, the vice-chancellor explained that the relocation was undertaken to protect the master plan of the university and to position the institution on the path of becoming a world-class university with full control over its processes, systems, and procedures.

    Prof. Egbewole, who is also the Secretary General of the Association of West Africa Universities (AWAU), expressed confidence that in the long run, members of the university community would be proud of the decision, adding that significant improvements had already been made at the new park and that plans were in place to further develop the area, including the construction of a shopping mall within the park before the end of the year.

    Read Also: TETFund to facilitate tighter security in tertiary institutions

    He also attributed some of the transportation challenges to issues of attitude and coordination rather than the absence of vehicles, noting his personal commitment to monitoring operations at the park, as he is often on ground as early as 6:00 a.m everyday to ensure compliance and efficiency.

    He pointed out that the ultimate goal of the transport reform was to ensure total control over vehicles operating on campus, effective fleet management, and improved connectivity within the university.

    He added that under the new arrangement, transport operators would be brought under the university’s supervision to guarantee punctuality and reliability, particularly during peak hours.

    Prof. Egbewole applauded the students for their orderliness and consistent support for the university system, noting that at no time did they exhibit any negative disposition towards the institution.

    The vice-chancellor acknowledged the support of Starlink Global & Ideal Limited that provided a ₦200 million intervention to the university in July last year that was channelled towards addressing the transportation challenges.

  • 43 bags First Class as Fountain University graduates 508 students

    43 bags First Class as Fountain University graduates 508 students

    …varsity won £83,400 foreign research grants

    …we’re converting our research outcomes to products, influence govt policies—VC

    No fewer than 43 students of Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State, bagged First Class Degree Honours as the institution graduated 508 in various degrees at the 15th convocation ceremony.

    The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Ramota Karim, disclosed this while addressing newsmen on Wednesday, ahead of the ceremony scheduled for January 16th 2026.

    She stated that of 426 students who graduated with their First Degrees, “43 bagged First Class Honours, 190 got Second Upper, 135 secured Second Class Lower, while 51 graduated with Third Class and 7 of the graduands finished with Pass.”

    The VC added that the varsity also graduated 81 Postgraduate students, including one institution’s first Ph.D student from the Department of Biological Science (Microbiology option).

    She also said that 32 maiden students of the school’s Law Programme met the requirements to gain admission into the Nigerian Law School.

    Read Also: Fountain University seeks Adeleke, IGP’s Intervention over alleged land grabbing

    Prof Karim highlighted the achievements made by the school, saying, “Research output and grant attraction recorded remarkable growth during the session. Professor Nusrah Afolabi-Balogun, in collaboration with Dr. Sarah Pensa of the University of Cambridge, secured additional international research funding totalling £83,400.”

    She also disclosed that the school executed capital projects totalling N2.7billion, including roads, a 180-bedded hostel, a 500-seater hall, among others.

    Speaking about the Federal government’s mandating upload of research work to the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) portal, the VC said “the school, through our Centre for Research, Innovation and Technology, is working to convert our research outcomes to products and influence govt policies.”

  • NBR inducts five into Hall of Fame 

    NBR inducts five into Hall of Fame 

    The Nigerian Books of Record (NBR) has inducted five eminent Nigerians in diaspora into its prestigious Hall of Fame. 

    The landmark ceremony which held recently, in Joga-Orile, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, at the palace of Oba Dr. Adeyemi Olanrewaju Adekeye, Lagori III, the Abepa of Joga-Orile, brought together an exceptional convergence of traditional authority, national leadership, diaspora excellence, and cultural heritage.

    Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, music for the ceremony was provided by legendary juju maestro King Sunny Ade.

    The inductees, Chief Mrs. Moronke Faloyin-Badejo, Otunba Abiodun Badejo, Chief Taiwo Alli, Chief Kehinde Alli, and Chief Mrs. Omolola Alli, were honoured for decades of service, leadership, philanthropy, and sustained contribution to Nigeria’s development and global image, despite living and working abroad. 

    Chief Mrs. Faloyin-Badejo is based in the United States and holds revered matriarchal titles including Iya-Oba of Joga-Orile and multiple senior titles across Egbaland and Ibogunland. 

    Otunba Abiodun Badejo, also U.S.-based, serves as Chairman of Diaspora on Ethics and Values and is widely recognised for his ethics advocacy and institutional leadership.

    Chief Taiwo Alli, a United Kingdom–based entrepreneur, is a prominent traditional leader holding titles such as Otunba Bobajiroro of Ibogun-Balogun in the Owu Kingdom, Baajiri of Joga-Orile, Otun Apagunpote of Egbaland, and Akinlagun of Kemta, Abeokuta. 

    His twin brother, Chief Kehinde Alli, based in the United States, holds equally significant titles including Otunba Bobagunwa of Ibogun-Balogun, Baaloro of Joga-Orile, Otun Bobagunwa of Egbaland, and Akinrogun of Kemta. 

    Chief Mrs. Omolola Alli, a U.S.-based healthcare executive and psychiatric nursing specialist, is invested with influential female traditional titles including Erelu Otunba Bobagunwa of Ibogun-Balogun, Erelu Baaloro of Joga-Orile, Erelu Otun Bobagunwa of Egbaland, and Erelu Akinrogun of Kemta, reflecting her standing as a bridge between professional excellence, philanthropy, and cultural authority.

    Each inductee was formally admitted as a Member and Fellow of the Nigerian Books of Record and permanently enshrined in the Hall of Fame following the reading of detailed citations documenting their national and international impact. 

    Read Also: The unbreakable Akpabio: Strength in the face of falsehood

    The layered traditional recognitions held by the inductees across Ogun State and Yorubaland vividly affirmed a rare reality that physical distance has not diminished their authority, service, or relevance within Nigeria’s cultural and social institutions.

    The ceremony attracted an eminent audience, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, business leader Princess Dr. Toyin Kolade, traditional rulers Oba Rotimi Mulero and Oba Dr. Olayinka Salako, as well as celebrated actress Faustina Balogun, popularly known as Madam Saje, further underscoring the national stature of the event.

    Performing the formal induction, the Director General of the Nigerian Books of Record, Professor David Obongekong David, stressed the strategic relevance of recognising Nigerians who lead from the diaspora, stating that Nigeria’s story is no longer confined within its borders and that many of the most disciplined builders of the nation’s image, ethics, institutions, and humanitarian footprint now operate globally. 

    He warned that ignoring such figures would amount to amputating Nigeria’s global influence, adding that the mandate of the Nigerian Books of Record is to ensure that wherever Nigerians lead with integrity, excellence, and impact, the nation records it, honours it, and preserves it for history.

  • Fed govt unveils measures to curb malpractices in NECO, WAEC, other exams

    Fed govt unveils measures to curb malpractices in NECO, WAEC, other exams

    The federal government has announced new measures to curb examination malpractice in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations.

    The government said the measures are part of ongoing reforms to strengthen credibility, transparency, and public confidence in Nigeria’s assessment system.

    Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmed, announced the measures in a statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations of the ministry, Boriowo Folasade, on Monday in Abuja.

    The minister stated that the Federal Ministry of Education was intensifying oversight and deploying targeted strategies to safeguard the integrity of national examinations.

    Among the key measures is the introduction of enhanced question randomisation and serialisation mechanisms.

    While all candidates will answer the same examination questions, the sequencing and arrangement will differ for each candidate, ensuring that every student writes a unique version of the examination and significantly reducing opportunities for collusion.

    The ministry also reaffirmed its strict policy prohibiting the transfer of candidates at the Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) level.

    It said this directive, already communicated through an official circular, will be rigorously enforced to prevent last-minute school changes often associated with examination malpractice.

    “To further ensure transparency, new national Continuous Assessment guidelines have been developed for immediate implementation. All examination bodies (WAEC, NECO, NBAIS etc) must strictly follow the standardized submission deadlines for each academic period:

    Submission Windows

    •             First Term CA: January

    •             Second Term CA: April

    •             Third Term CA: August

    “These timelines are mandatory and designed to ensure consistency, data integrity, and prompt processing of Continuous Assessment records across the country.

    “In addition, the Federal Ministry of Education is introducing a unique Examination Learners’ Identity Number for all candidates. This identifier will enable effective tracking of learners throughout the examination process, strengthen monitoring and accountability, and support long-term reforms in assessment, certification, and data management,” the statement said.

    Read Also: Fed Govt set for AfCFTA’s preferential terms, says Oduwole

    The ministers assured stakeholders that examination administration will be conducted under strengthened supervision and coordination with relevant examination bodies to ensure strict compliance with established guidelines and ethical standards.

    They emphasized that these measures reflected the Federal Government’s resolve to conduct examinations that are credible, fair, and reflective of global best practices, while addressing Nigeria’s unique educational realities.

    The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all examination bodies, state governments, school administrators, parents, and candidates to ensure the successful implementation of these strategies and the smooth conduct of the 2026 examinations nationwide.

  • I have achieved my goal for establishing ABUAD, says Afe Babalola

    I have achieved my goal for establishing ABUAD, says Afe Babalola

    Founder and Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has declared that his lifelong vision of establishing and nurturing a world-class university has been fulfilled.

    Babalola spoke on Monday during the 16th anniversary of the commencement of academic activities at the university, saying ABUAD has recorded remarkable growth, global recognition, and academic excellence over the last 16 years.

    The legal luminary said the university, which commenced academic activities on January 4, 2010, with just 240 pioneer students, has grown into a globally competitive institution that has not only surpassed many older universities but has also become a reference point for quality and functional education in Nigeria and beyond.

    Highlighting ABUAD’s achievements, Babalola noted that the university has consistently ranked among the best universities globally, referencing its placement by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings among the top 100 universities in the world and its recognition as the number one university in Nigeria in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

    He added that the feat confirmed that age is no barrier to success, noting that he founded the university at about 80 years old.

    According to him, ABUAD has emerged as a clear leader in key disciplines such as Law, Medicine, and Engineering, surpassing many older institutions and firmly establishing itself as a global brand in higher education.

    He expressed gratitude to God for divine guidance and sustaining grace since the inception of the institution, describing the journey as one marked by faith, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to quality and functional education.

    Read Also: Crown Solicitors lifts Aare Afe Babalola trophy  

    He also commended the management and staff of the institution, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, for translating his vision into a flourishing academic reality admired both within and outside Nigeria.

    The elder statesman cautioned against complacency, stressing that sustaining success requires even more effort than attaining it.

    He urged academic and non-academic staff to remain disciplined, committed, and focused, emphasizing that maintaining the university’s high standards should be the collective responsibility of all stakeholders.

    ABUAD Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, described the institution’s 16-year journey as a testament to visionary leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

    She said that the university’s steady rise in global and national rankings reflected the clear vision of the Founder and the uncompromising dedication of staff and students to academic integrity, research relevance, and innovation.

    The VC noted that ABUAD’s recognition by reputable global ranking bodies did not come by chance but was the product of deliberate policies, strict adherence to standards, and continuous investment in infrastructure, teaching, and research.

  • Schools resume in Abuja as FCTA hails massive turnout

    Schools resume in Abuja as FCTA hails massive turnout

    Academic activities for the second term of the 2025/2026 session officially commenced across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Monday.

    Visits to some schools in the nation’s capital showed that student and teacher turnout was high.

    This was the situation at Government Secondary School (GSS), Junior Secondary School (JSS), both in Apo Resettlement, Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa Maitama, and JSS Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja.

    At GSS Apo Resettlement, out of 1,158 school population, the total number of students on the first day of resumption was 405.

    During a routine inspection of schools to monitor compliance, Ms. Joy Okeke, Permanent Secretary of the FCTA Education Secretariat, praised the “massive” turnout of students and pupils.

    Speaking on behalf of Dr. Danlami Hayyo, FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Okeke attributed the high attendance and readiness to learn to the conducive environment provided by the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike.

    “The turnout is very impressive; it shows that the children are ready to learn,” Okeke stated during a visit to Government Secondary School (GSS) Apo.

    She added, “The Honorable Minister has made the school environment conducive. I have advised the students to be attentive and the teachers to remain punctual and committed.”

    She reiterated that the FCTA Education Secretariat continues to encourage a collaborative spirit between staff and students to ensure a successful 2026 academic year.

    At Government Science Secondary School, Maitama, students expressed enthusiasm about the swift start to the term.

    Adishokun Oluwashimilore, an SS3 student, noted that the clean environment was already enhancing their learning experience.

    “We have started learning already; we are in a Physics class right now. I am impressed with the teachers’ commitment,” he said.

    Similarly, Ogechukwu Victory shared similar sentiments after her first Mathematics lesson of the year.

    “The environment is very conducive and full of excitement,” she noted, while urging absent peers to return immediately.

    She adds, “When you come early, classes start immediately, and it helps us go further in our studies.”

    Also, speaking on managing the logistics of the resumption, Suzie Wamandogo, Vice-Principal Admin of GSS Maitama, revealed that boarding students had returned as early as Sunday, January 4.

    Despite the recent New Year festivities, she confirmed that approximately 471 students had already settled in.

    “It is not easy, being the first week of the year and following the celebrations, but we are surprised to see so many parents bringing their children back.

    “All our teachers returned yesterday to receive the students and are currently in the classrooms, Wamandogo said.

    However, it was observed that most of the Private schools visited were almost empty, as they are yet to resume activities for the term.

    Read Also: FCTA to mark Tinubu’s third anniversary with massive projects – Wike 

    When the inspection team visited the Beautiful Beginning Academy, Abuja, the school Principal, Mr. Henry Essang, explained that although it resumed with teachers on ground the first day, its students are expected to fully resume on Wednesday, 7th January.

    “The school has resumed, but our students are to come in on the 7th of this month. Because our experience has been that they don’t come to school.

    “So that’s why we moved it to 7th instead of any other time. And we have made it mandatory for them to come to school on the 7th.

    “Also, a couple of parents have written that they are not in town, they have travelled and all that, ” he stated.

  • Investment in education no gamble, says Shettima

    Investment in education no gamble, says Shettima

    By Abdulsalam Idris

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has said investment in education is never a gamble but a worthy investment to secure the future.

    He described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s investment in education as a deliberate and strategic effort to secure a better future for Nigeria and Nigerians.

    The Vice President noted that education remains the most powerful tool for national development, economic empowerment, and societal liberation.

    He said countries that prioritise education are better positioned for sustainable growth.

    Shettima spoke at the weekend during the combined convocation ceremonies of Kashim Ibrahim University, Borno State, where 2,294 students graduated across three academic sessions in 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025.

    The Vice President said investing in education is a conscious plan for a more secure future, stressing that neglecting the sector could have long-term consequences for national stability and progress.

    READ ALSO; Tears, tributes at Anthony Joshua’s friends’ funeral prayer in London

    Addressing the graduating students, he urged them to act as ambassadors of integrity, service, and excellence, adding that their conduct would reflect on the reputation of Kashim Ibrahim University wherever they go.

    Shettima also noted that Borno State understands the cost of neglecting education, having experienced years of disruption due to insurgency.

    The Vice President, who was Borno State governor between 2011 and 2019, emphasised that strengthening education is key to rebuilding the state and ensuring lasting peace and development.

  • Institution pledges commitment to academic excellence, practical relevance

    Institution pledges commitment to academic excellence, practical relevance

    The American Open University, Nigeria said it remains committed to offering forward-thinking programmes that combine academic excellence with practical relevance.

    The institution also said its equipped students with industry-recognised certifications and global perspectives needed to thrive in the digital age.

    A statement by the Registrar of the institution said it is positioned as transformative academic hub, designed to prepare students for future of work in a rapidly evolving global digital economy. 

    The statement noted that beyond conventional teaching, it serves as a launchpad for digital skills, innovation and global competitiveness.

    The university explained that its mission, tagged “Reposition. Reskill. Reinvent.”, is anchored on the EDGE instructional framework—Educate, Develop, Grow and Empower—aimed at enabling students to learn locally while earning globally. 

    It stressed that its flexible, competency-based model is designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.

    The institution also announced commencement of admissions into its tech-focused Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), top-up and degree conversion programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session.

    The university said the new admission cycle marks a significant step in its vision to redefine higher education in West Africa through industry-engaged, technology-driven learning.

    Read Also: NYCN seeks criminalisation of ransom payments to end kidnappings in Nigeria

    “The admission exercise targets three major categories of applicants: direct entry and transfer students including NCE, ND and NID holders; degree conversion and top-up candidates such as HND holders, third-class degree holders and chartered professionals (ICAN, CIPM, CIBN, CITN); as well as professionals seeking to pivot into high-demand technology careers.

    “Available NUC-approved programmes are offered under the College of Technology and the College of Business. In the College of Technology, programmes include B.Sc. Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering and Information Technology, with specialisations spanning artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital forensics and full-stack development.

    “Under the College of Business, applicants can choose from B.Sc. Business Administration, Business Information Technology, Entrepreneurship and Public Administration, with options in digital governance, data analytics, technology entrepreneurship and corporate finance.

    “The university stated that its admission philosophy places emphasis on clarity of purpose, adding that all applicants are required to submit a 500–750 word statement of purpose outlining their motivation and career goals. 

    “Candidates are also expected to demonstrate digital readiness by passing a digital skills test, with a free preparatory course provided for those requiring additional support.”

  • CHRICED urges Tinubu to implement Oronsaye report

    CHRICED urges Tinubu to implement Oronsaye report

    The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has tasked President Bola Tinubu on the implementation of the Oronsaye report to reduce the cost of governance.

    The Oronsaye Report recommended the scrapping of some government agencies with similar operations to reduce the cost of governance.

    Speaking at a new year media briefing in Abuja on Saturday, Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, lamented the continued neglect of the Oronsaye report, saying its failure to be implemented reflected a lack of political will to reduce the cost of governance.

    Zikirullahi stated, “The Oronsaye Report — a long-standing blueprint for reducing the cost of governance — remained buried under political convenience. Instead of streamlining government, new agencies, committees, and appointments multiplied, consuming scarce resources that should have been directed toward lifting citizens out of poverty.

    “This contradiction is not just irresponsible — it is immoral. A government that asks the poor to endure hardship while expanding its own privileges is a government that has lost its moral compass. Nigeria cannot continue to bleed resources into a system designed to enrich the few at the expense of the many. The people deserve leadership that sacrifices first, spends wisely, and governs with conscience.”

    Speaking on democracy, Zikirullahi said off-cycle elections in 2025 exposed the fragility of Nigeria’s electoral system, citing allegations of voter suppression, violence and manipulation.

    According to the CHRICED boss, many local government elections were reduced to “coronations” for ruling parties, undermining public trust.

    Zikirullahi expressed concern over what he described as an accelerated drift toward a one-party state, pointing to mass defections of opposition lawmakers and governors to the ruling party.

    According to him, the trend has weakened accountability, endangered judicial independence and fuelled public disillusionment.

    “This is not speculative; it is observable and dangerous,” he said, warning that Nigeria risks becoming a democracy only in form, not substance.

    On insecurity, Zikirullahi said Nigerians remained under siege despite huge budgetary allocations to defence, with kidnappings, banditry and violent crime persisting across the country.

    He said communities had been displaced, farms abandoned and businesses shut down, adding that security must go beyond slogans to tangible action.

    The CHRICED boss decried what he described as a shrinking civic space, alleging that peaceful protesters, journalists and activists faced harassment and intimidation in 2025.

    Read Also: Bello seeks support for Tinubu as Kogi APC kicks off e-registration

    “A democracy without dissent is a democracy in name only,” he said, insisting that civic freedoms were non-negotiable and central to accountability.

    Zikirullahi said Nigeria now faced defining choices in 2026, urging leaders to show courage by reducing the cost of governance, reforming key institutions, strengthening the electoral process and protecting civic rights.

    He also called on citizens to transform resilience into action by holding leaders accountable and refusing to surrender their democratic power.

    “The message of 2025 is clear,” he said. “The people are suffering, the system is failing, and silence is no longer an option.”

    He, however, maintained that hope was not lost, saying Nigerians had survived the worst and could still build a just and dignified society if collective resolve replaced apathy.