Take My Gist

A disturbing trend is sweeping Niger State and beyond, reaching into the lives of our children.  The issue is not merely academic; it's a profound crisis demanding immediate and serious attention from parents.  Children, even those in our care, are engaging in sexual activity, recording it, and sharing these images – often for monetary gain – via social media or other platforms.  This is a heartbreaking reality that demands we, as parents, recognize our crucial role in protecting our children. The Niger State Government's decision to ban graduation ceremonies and sign-outs in Kontagora Emirate highlights the disturbing presence of immoral behavior and thuggery at such gatherings.  This ban, while necessary, underscores the gravity of the problem.  It's a clear signal that our children are at risk. No one can adequately fill the role of a parent.  The protection and guidance of our children are paramount.  We, the parents, are the primary guardians, and...

The case of Mr. Aminu Ladan, the suspended Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Area in Niger State, highlights a critical issue plaguing Nigerian local governments: the disconnect between autonomy and accountability. While advocates rightly argue for greater local government autonomy to empower grassroots governance and address local needs, the reality is that many local government officials, even with existing powers, fail to deliver essential services and are rife with corruption. Granting greater autonomy without addressing these underlying issues would be akin to giving a loaded gun to someone who doesn't know how to handle it – the potential for misuse and harm far outweighs the benefits. The Ladan situation exemplifies several systemic problems hindering effective local governance in Nigeria: Lack of Accountability: The allegations against Ladan – mismanagement of funds, illegal land sales, contract irregularities, and failure to adhere to financial reporting requirement...

~~ Hauwee Saeed  Today, International Day of Friendship, we pause to appreciate the profound impact of human connection. Friendship, in all its forms, is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. From the deep, intimate bonds of lifelong companionship to the fleeting but joyful encounters with acquaintances, these relationships shape our experiences and contribute to our overall well-being. What have we gained from friendship? The benefits are multifaceted and profound. Friends provide emotional support, a crucial buffer against life's challenges. They celebrate our triumphs and offer comfort during difficult times. They offer different perspectives, broadening our understanding of the world and fostering personal growth. Sharing laughter, experiences, and inside jokes creates joy and lasting memories. Friendships, whether built on shared interests, common goals, or mutual respect, enrich our lives with diverse perspectives and a sense of belonging. Beyond the individual benefits, ...

Nigeria is grappling with a severe economic crisis, manifested in a plummeting Naira and a drastically declining standard of living.  While ordinary citizens struggle to afford basic necessities, the opulent lifestyles of the nation's political elite stand in stark contrast, fueling widespread anger and resentment.  The sheer extravagance displayed by government officials, as highlighted by their massive motorcades, underscores a profound disconnect between the rulers and the ruled. The article details the staggering number of vehicles comprising the convoys of high-ranking officials: the President's 23-vehicle fleet, including armored luxury cars; the Senate President's and Speaker's similarly extravagant entourages; and the equally lavish motorcades of ministers, the Inspector General of Police, service chiefs, and state governors. These convoys, often featuring armored vehicles and luxury SUVs, represent a staggering waste of resources in a country battling economic ...

~~ Dr Wey George Danlami Consultant-Family Physician   Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions worldwide. In 2019 alone, an estimated 18 million individuals lived with this debilitating condition, with women disproportionately impacted (approximately 70%) and a significant portion (55%) being over 55 years old. A staggering 13 million experienced moderate to severe RA, highlighting the urgent need for effective rehabilitation services. While RA's systemic nature impacts multiple body systems, its most prominent effects are seen in the joints – particularly the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, knees, shoulders, and elbows. Overview of Rheumatoid Arthritis RA is a chronic inflammatory disease causing persistent pain and inflammation throughout the body, primarily affecting the joints. Left untreated, it can lead to severe joint damage, impacting surrounding tissues and potentially causing complications in the heart, lungs, or nervous system. Common ...

Last month, the story of a Nigerian university's "no bra, no exam" rule, enforced through the troubling physical examination of female students, sparked widespread outrage and rightly so.  The viral video depicting female staff touching students' chests to ensure they were adhering to the policy highlights the problematic nature of the dress code and, more broadly, the increasingly inappropriate methods some Nigerian universities use to address perceived breaches of decorum.  This incident exposes a critical concern about the apparent erosion of traditional African values and customs among Nigerian students, and the urgent need for a re-evaluation of these practices. This incident compels us to address a multifaceted problem demanding immediate and collaborative action from all Nigerian universities.  This is not merely about a dress code; it’s about respect, dignity, appropriate enforcement mechanisms, and the preservation of cultural identity in the face of evolving...

For decades, Nigeria's state-owned refineries have been a festering wound on the nation's economy, a monument to mismanagement, corruption, and a blatant disregard for the suffering of its people. Billions – yes, *billions* – of dollars have been poured into these facilities, yet they remain largely non-functional. This isn't incompetence; it's a systemic failure, a betrayal of public trust on a grand scale. While our leaders continue to offer empty promises and engage in PR exercises, the reality is stark: Our refineries are obsolete, technologically outdated, and hopelessly inefficient. Attempts at rehabilitation have been nothing short of disastrous, leaving taxpayers footing the bill for a broken system that consistently fails to deliver. Aliko Dangote, a Nigerian business magnate who successfully built a world-class refinery, has bravely called out this charade. His words – that these refineries are beyond repair and should be sold – are not harsh; they are br...

Nigeria. The word conjures images of vibrant culture, bustling markets, and a burgeoning economy. Yet, behind this façade lies a stark reality: Nigeria is, according to recent BBC Africa health correspondent reporting, the world's deadliest place to give birth.  This isn't a statistic to be glossed over; it's a crisis demanding immediate and drastic action. The numbers are horrifying.  A woman dies in childbirth every seven minutes.  That's roughly 200 mothers lost each day, a staggering 75,000 annually – accounting for a shocking 29% of global maternal deaths in 2023.  These aren't simply accidents; many deaths are entirely preventable. Postpartum haemorrhage, obstructed labor, high blood pressure, and unsafe abortions are common causes, all treatable with adequate healthcare. The story of Nafisa Salahu, a young woman who survived childbirth but lost her baby due to a doctors' strike and subsequent lack of medical expertise, encapsulates the systemic failures w...

  The recent revelation by the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) that unlicensed courier services are brazenly transporting weapons and drugs raises serious questions about the state of national security in Nigeria. NIPOST's General Manager, Oludotun Sounde, has warned that these unregulated companies, operating with impunity, pose a significant threat. The situation paints a grim picture. Nigeria's insecurity, poverty and hunger are exacerbated by this unchecked proliferation of illicit activities. The pervasive sense of lawlessness suggests a critical failure of governance. The onus is on the authorities to address this critical failing to safeguard the nation's future. Until accountability is prioritized, Nigeria's problems will only continue to worsen. However, the alarming report, highlighting the seizure of firearms and drugs from one such operation, underscores a critical failing in the country's regulatory framework. The companies' lack of structure, acc...

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh, My dear brothers and sisters in Islam, today, as we gather on this blessed Friday, let us reflect on a profound and vital aspect of our faith: forgiveness. The Quran and the Sunnah consistently emphasize the importance of forgiveness, not only for others but also for ourselves. It is a cornerstone of a righteous life, a path to inner peace, and a crucial element in fostering a strong, compassionate community. We often hear the phrase "Forgive and forget," but true forgiveness is a far more complex and nuanced act. It’s not about condoning wrongdoing or ignoring the pain inflicted upon us. Rather, it’s about releasing the burden of resentment and anger that weighs heavily on our hearts and souls. Holding onto anger and resentment is like carrying a heavy stone – it tires us, it restricts our movement, and it prevents us from enjoying the blessings Allah (SWT) has bestowed upon us. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exempl...

  Mixed Reactions to Buhari's Death Highlight Nigeria's Complexities .... The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari on July 13, 2025, elicited a wide spectrum of reactions, revealing diverse perspectives on his legacy and personality. Analysis of the responses reveals several key themes: 1. Grief and Admiration: The outpouring of grief, exemplified by Governor Dikko Radda's emotional display, highlights the deep respect and affection many held for Buhari. Tributes focused on his perceived integrity, discipline, and sacrifice, portraying him as a "national father figure" and a symbol of these values. The massive scale of his funeral, with over 56 million online viewers, further underscores the profound impact he had on a significant portion of the Nigerian population. Many described him as a man of simple tastes, emphasizing his austere living conditions and his commitment to public service, even in the face of criticism. This sentiment is echoed in person...