Take My Gist

Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel Global Human Capital & Energy Management  As Noam Chomsky aptly puts it, the willingness to sacrifice the well-being of humanity for personal gain is a reprehensible act that transcends the definition of evil. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is all too familiar in Nigeria, where corruption has become a pervasive and entrenched problem. To understand the root causes of this endemic corruption and propose solutions, it's essential to examine the role of Nigeria's leaders, past and present. Causes of Endemic Corruption in Nigeria Corruption in Nigeria is a complex issue with multiple factors contributing to its persistence. Some of the key causes include: - Weak Institutions: The lack of effective institutions and mechanisms for accountability has created an environment conducive to corruption . - Poor Leadership: Nigeria's leaders, past and present, have often been accused of corruption and abuse of power, setting a bad precedent for the rest of ...

Today's Friday sermon eloquently highlighted the profound importance, numerous benefits, and immense rewards associated with the blessed month of Ramadan.  The Khutbah (sermon) emphasized that Ramadan is not merely a month of fasting, but a time of intense spiritual rejuvenation, self-improvement, and profound connection with Allah (SWT). Importance: The sermon began by emphasizing the unparalleled significance of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar.  It was presented as a month of immense mercy, forgiveness, and increased spiritual growth.  The Khutbah likely underscored the spiritual elevation achievable through increased prayer, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity, all of which are magnified in their reward during this sacred time.  The unique opportunity to cleanse oneself from sins and draw closer to Allah through sincere repentance (tawbah) was a central theme.  It may have also touched upon the historical context of Ramadan's revelation and its cruci...

 ~~ Ahman Makams  Nigeria grapples with a stark reality: a deeply entrenched corruption problem that disproportionately affects the poor, while the wealthy often escape accountability. This isn't a subtle issue; it's a gaping chasm in the nation's justice system, visible to even the casual observer. The discrepancy between the punishment meted out to petty thieves and those involved in grand corruption is a glaring indictment of the system's fairness and effectiveness. While stealing is inherently wrong, the current approach reveals a disturbing double standard.  A street vendor caught shoplifting faces months, even years, behind bars.  Meanwhile, individuals who embezzle billions – sums their descendants will likely never exhaust – often receive lenient sentences, plea bargains, or protracted legal battles that effectively shield them from meaningful punishment. This disparity fuels public cynicism and erodes trust in the institutions meant to uphold the law.  ...

~~ Ahman Makams  The proposed Nigerian tax reform bills have sparked a fierce debate, with the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi, issuing a stark warning: the bills risk legislating the NCS out of existence.  This raises critical questions about the future of the agency, its 10,000+ employees, and the potential impact on national revenue generation. Adeniyi's concerns, presented at a House of Representatives public hearing, center on jurisdictional conflicts between the proposed bills and the newly enacted Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.  He argues that the Nigerian Revenue Service Establishment Bill, 2024, particularly its broad definition of "tax" encompassing all government duties and revenue, effectively subsumes the NCS's core functions.  Sections 23, 29, and 41 of the Joint Revenue Bill further exacerbate these concerns, creating overlapping jurisdictions and potentially rendering the NCS redundant. The Potential Fallou...

  ~~ Tenin Yahaya  The discovery that your husband is marrying another woman is devastating, triggering a cascade of intense emotions.  Controlling these feelings isn't about suppressing them, but about navigating them healthily to preserve your well-being.  First, allow yourself to feel.  Don't bottle up your anger, sadness, hurt, or betrayal.  Cry, scream, journal – find healthy outlets to process your pain.  Suppressing emotions only prolongs the suffering.  Lean on a trusted support system: friends, family, therapists, or support groups for women in similar situations can provide invaluable emotional support and guidance during this challenging time. Next, focus on self-care.  This is not a time for self-neglect.  Prioritize healthy habits: regular sleep, nourishing food, and physical activity.  Engage in activities that bring you joy and peace, even if it's just for short periods.  This could include spending time in natur...

Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel Global Human Capital & Energy Management  Technology has revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact with one another. However, the notion that technology is a neutral tool is a myth. In reality, technology has a profound impact on our habits, thoughts, and priorities, often in ways that are detrimental to our well-being. Benefits of Technology Technology has undoubtedly brought numerous benefits, including: - Increased connectivity: Technology has made it easier to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues across geographical distances. - Access to information: The internet has democratized access to information, enabling us to learn new skills, access knowledge, and stay informed about global events. - Improved productivity: Technology has streamlined many tasks, enabling us to work more efficiently and effectively. Challenges of Technology However, there are also significant challenges associated with technology, including: - Distr...

  ~~ Ahman Makams  Senate President Godswill Akpabio's declaration that only 30% of Nigerians pay taxes has ignited a firestorm of criticism and rightly so. His statement, made during the public hearing on tax reform bills, highlights a glaring inequality in Nigeria's tax system: a significant portion of the wealthy elite, including powerful individuals and large corporations, seemingly evade their civic duty while ordinary citizens shoulder the burden. Akpabio's acknowledgment of the problem is a positive step, but his call for tax reforms falls flat without addressing the elephant in the room: the systemic tax evasion practiced by the country's affluent. The question isn't just *how many* Nigerians pay taxes, but *who* isn't paying. The implication is clear: a significant portion of the missing 70% are likely those with the means to avoid taxes—the very individuals who wield considerable influence within the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, a...