Take My Gist

Nigeria's World Press Freedom Day (May 3rd) arrives under a dark cloud.  The very principles celebrated—freedom of information, truth-seeking—are stifled by a government that, in many ways, resembles a parent beating a child and then demanding silence.  The press, meant to be the mirror reflecting the nation's struggles, is increasingly muffled, rendered voiceless in the face of injustice. Silencing the Truth: How Nigeria's Government Stifles Information: The government's approach to dissent and critical reporting often mirrors tactics of control and suppression: Gagging the Press: Restrictive laws and decrees frequently target journalists and media outlets.  These measures are often used to silence critical commentary on government policies and actions. Threats and Harassment: Journalists daring to expose corruption, inequality, or human rights abuses face a barrage of threats, intimidation, and harassment by security forces.  Fear pervades the air, silencing vital ...

~~ Tenin Yahaya   The narrative of a "matrimonial market" flooded with women seeking marriage, often portrayed as a crisis of overpopulation, is a misleading and harmful oversimplification. While modern life presents unique challenges to relationships, the issue isn't a numerical imbalance, but a complex interplay of shifting societal expectations, economic realities, and evolving relationship dynamics. The "overpopulation" framing ignores the reality that many women face barriers to finding fulfilling partnerships beyond the sheer number of available men. Instead, it's a matter of compatibility, opportunity, and the very definition of success in today's world. The Shifting Sands of Expectations: Dual Career Paths: Women are increasingly choosing (and often excelling in) demanding professional lives. This can lead to competing priorities and a limited availability for dating and relationship building. The expectations of a "career first" tra...

~~ Ahman Makams   The tensions between Niger State's Governor Bago and Deputy Governor Garba highlight a need for improved communication and collaboration within the state's leadership. The situation underscores a challenge many governments face: maintaining effective working relationships between key officials. The reported events – disagreements over candidate selection, budget allocations, and the alleged leaked recording – point to a breakdown in trust and effective internal conflict resolution. Addressing these issues requires a proactive and collaborative approach from both leaders. The controversy surrounding the consensus list for local government elections serves as a case study. The selection process, and the resulting perceived marginalization of the Deputy Governor, created a sense of disconnect and fueled tension. A more inclusive approach, involving greater collaboration and transparency, is needed to prevent similar situations. Open dialogue and a willingnes...

~~ Ahman Makams  Governor Umaru Bago's current engagements in Russia underscore his firm commitment to transforming Niger State's agricultural sector. His focus on agricultural development is a deliberate, ongoing strategy aimed at securing a brighter future for Nigerlites. These interactions, rather than mere visits, represent strategic investments that will positively impact the state's prosperity. A Multi-Billion Dollar Investment in Niger State's Future: The discussions with Gazprombank, a leading Russian financial institution, are not simply exploratory; they are focused on concrete investment opportunities worth potentially billions of dollars. Gazprombank's involvement signifies a major step towards realizing Niger State's agricultural potential. This partnership will provide: Access to much-needed capital: Gazprombank's expertise in investment banking will facilitate securing crucial funding for the purchase of modern agricultural machinery and ...

Dr Wey George Danlami Consultant-Family Physician  To those who knew her, she was Mummy.  To me, she was everything.  Born on the 25th of August, 1945, to the late Pa Festus Edmund Josiah Williams and Mama Hannah Grant Williams, she was a remarkable woman, a trailblazer in every sense of the word.  Her life, though sadly cut short, was a testament to resilience, dedication, and unwavering faith. Growing up in Zaria, attending St. George's Primary School, her early years were steeped in community and faith, a life intertwined with her beloved church.  It's poignant to remember that former Governor Jim Nwobodo, a name etched in the annals of Nigerian history, was a teacher at St. George's during her formative years.  Her transition to the prestigious Queen's College, Lagos, marked a significant step in her educational journey, culminating in her Senior Prefect year in 1965. This wasn't just about academic success, but about leadership and discipline – qualiti...

~~ Ahman Makams  The passing of Hajiya Khadijad Yadi, my stepmother, has left an irreplaceable void. This past week has been a blur of grief and sorrow, slowing my work and leaving me emotionally drained. Yet, amidst the profound sadness, I find solace remembering her. From my childhood, Hajiya Yadi was more than a stepmother; she was my mother. Our shared jokes and laughter are cherished memories.  Even in her final moments, her spirit shone. Visiting her in the hospital, she reached for my hand; we shared a comforting moment, this time without words, in our peculiar mix of languages. She held my hand for five minutes, a precious last embrace before the doctors moved her. She fell asleep shortly after; that was the last time I saw her. The irony: I left her bedside to help prepare for my youngest brother Ismail's wedding the next day, Ismail, Hajiya Yadi's last-born.  The wedding's joy was tinged with unspoken anxiety, that was shattered by the devastating news: Hajiya Y...