Take My Gist

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to offer empty promises and engage in PR exercises, the reality is stark: Our refineries are obsolete, technologically outdated, and hopelessly inefficient.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...