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Uzodimma Endows Chair At UNN, Urges Universities To Lead Way For New Nigeria

May 10, 2024

The pursuit of learning and research at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka was given a boost on Thursday as the Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma endowed a Chair in the Political Science Department of the Social Science Faculty just as he challenged Nigerian universities to lead the way for a new Nigeria.

The endowment to be called “Hope Uzodimma Chair for good governance and civic responsibility” is in sync with the content of the 52nd Convocation Lecture of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka which Governor Uzodimma delivered at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium on Thursday.

The theme was: Why Universities Should Lead the Way to a New Nigeria.

One time Governor of old Imo State, who was also a Foreign Affairs minister and Senator, General Ike Nwachuku (rtd) was the Chairman of the UNN 52nd Convocation Lecture which had in attendance, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and the Chancellor of the University, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, among other dignitaries.

Governor Uzodimma challenged the Nigerian Universities to rise up to their expected role of leading the way for a new Nigeria, taking up their leadership and innovative roles, and contributing to the all round development of the country, the way it is done by their counterparts in other parts of the world.

He congratulated the graduands of the prestigious university despite the challenges they faced and advised them to roar into the world to make a difference.

As Governor Uzodimma rounded off with his lecture, he announced the endowment of the Chair as part of his contribution to advance the course of erudition and research at the first indigenous University of Nigeria even as urged the UNN to lead the way towards Nigeria’s rebirth.

He reminded his audience that Universities all over the world are known as centres of learning and excellence and that the society looks up to them for guidance and learning, and advised the students and all faculties of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to be ambassadors of truth.

Governor Uzodimma disclosed that he carefully chose the topic for the lecture taking into account what will best align with the current mood of the nation, and considering also, that the University is the brewer of fresh ideas.

His lecture brought to the fore what roles Universities play, through research and scientific inventions in the economic development of nations and more importantly, why the Universities in Nigeria must do the same. He challenged Nigeria’s Universities to assume the role of drivers of social change and lead the way to a new Nation.

“A recent study on the economic impact of the University of California got me thinking on how we can improve the economic impact of our own universities. In the report, the University of California was described as an essential economic engine for the State of California, contributing about 82 billion U.S dollars annually, to the economic output of the State.”

Governor Uzodimma posited that Nigerian Universities should not only provide high level manpower for national development, but should also produce disciplined and well cultured graduates, adding that, “Universities must certify that their students are of good character before graduating them.”

“It is not in doubt, the role Universities should play, is to serve as the compass to lead the society to technological breakthrough and informed leadership. Our own Universities must lead us to the new Nigeria of our dreams, especially in technology and governance.”

Governor Uzodimma reeled out names of Nigerians, most of them graduates of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka who are making waves globally in their chosen fields and posited that Nigerian Universities can be part of that great change agent for a new country of our dream.

He suggested that the Universities must key into the new ways of smart and digital learning processes that help to produce skilled manpower that cannot only be exported but help to drive development and competitiveness locally.

“There is no doubt that the future surely holds great prospect for Nigeria’s digital economy when all our higher education institutions are transformed into smart universities imbued with the knowledge base and competitive edge to match their contemporaries in other parts of the world,” he said.

He added: “I dream of a time when new political and economic theories will emerge from our lecture rooms and scientific discoveries and revolutions are announced in our laboratories. A time when our campuses become places where ideas are hatched, where new theories are examined and where new philosophies are debated. In this University of my dream, young adults should be nurtured and turned into thinkers, innovators, analysts, dreamers and sceptics.”

Governor Uzodimma decried some of the maladies that go on in the Universities today that impede our dream of Universities as agents of development and insisted that deployment of sanctions could go a long way in helping to save the situation.

To improve the ability of Nigerian Universities to play the roles expected of them, Governor Uzodimma proposed the following: establishment of ICT centres in all Universities and possibly, in both Secondary and Primary schools; strengthening the law establishing the Nigerian Universities Commission; empowering Universities to be able to withdraw the certificate of any of their graduates indicted in any form of criminality or corruption.

Others include; De-robing and withdrawal of all certificates of any lecturer indicted in any form of corruption, sexual assault or any other form misdemeanour while similar faith should be visited on University authorities who misappropriate funds meant for research and administration.

His words: “If you are wondering why I am insisting that our Universities must lead us to the new Nigeria of our dream, it is because I see the Universities as the sculptors, while Nigeria is the rock. The sculptor owes it as a duty to mould the rock into a monument to behold. In truth, there is no alternative to the pivotal role of Universities in our country and indeed every country.

“So, the path forward requires a collective effort, s shared vision and a commitment to excellence. It is time to invest in our Universities to prioritise research and innovation. In addition, we must creat an enabling environment for our students to thrive and ensure they are equipped with the skills, knowledge and character necessary to contribute to the development of our nation.

“Yes, the Nigeria of our dream is possible and it starts with our Universities. As Nigeria’s first indigenous University, this new or revised consciousness should start here at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.”,

In his remarks, Chairman of the Convocation Lecture, General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd) said “Universities, as bastion of knowledge and innovation, have a crucial role to play in leading Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future.”

He said, “since Universities are homes of research and development, through cutting edge research and innovation, they have the capacity to address some of Nigeria’s most pressing issues in all sectors, including insecurity.”

While welcoming the dignitaries who accompanied the UNN 52nd Convocation lecturer to the occasion, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Charles Igwe said Convocation Lecture requires that the lecturer is carefully chosen are invited to speak on topics of national and global interest.

Prof Igwe said Governor Uzodimma fitted the mould as a two term Senator, serving Governor in his second term in office, Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum, Chairman of South East Governors’ Forum and a detribalised Nigerian with huge appetite for service. He thanked the Governor for honouring the request by the University to share his experience with them and the public.

Adding his voices, both the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and Chief Iwuanyanwu lauded the delivery of the topic by Governor Uzodimma and promised to facilitate the distribution in different parts of the country.

The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chike Olemgbe, his Deputy, Rt Hon. Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu, former Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, serving and former Ministers, Commissioners, Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff, Barr Nnamdi Anyaehie, and other top government officials attended the lecture.

Also in attendance were ranking traditional rulers from Imo State and beyond, captains of industries, All Progressives Congress chieftains from the South East; women, youth and student groups.

“Replace Our Dead Son With One Of Us” – Family Of Murdered Officer Appeals To Nigeria Customs Service

The Source

May 9, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The immediate family members of a Customs operative, Auwal Haruna Customs Assistant II, suspected to have been felled by yet to be identified gunmen at Gamjin -Makaho check point along the Katsina- Dakama road in Kaita Local council of Katsina state, on April 17,2024, have appealed to the Nigerian Customs Services NCS, and other relevant authorities to replace their late son with a member of the family.

This is just as the Comptroller General of Customs CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has reaffirmed his determination to fish out out and prosecute all those directly and or indirectly involved in the gruesome killing of Haruna.

The deceased family members who spoke through the Chairman of Dutsi local council, the home local government of late Haruna during a condolence visit to the family on Thursday May 9 by CGC, Adeniyi, lamented the huge loss and pain that have been inflicted on the family and entire community by the sudden death of Haruna.

The Council boss regretted that with the demise of Haruna ,the community has been stripped of the only customs personnel from its rank,urging the NCS to strongly consider his replacement from amongst them.

The CGC ,who was represented by NCS delegation led by the Customs Area Comptroller ,Katsina Command Muhammad Umar ,while vowing to ensure that justice is served ,noted that the service has commenced investigations in to the sad incident..

Adeniyi who had about penultimate week in an official statement assured that the suspected killers of Haruna will not go unpunished, also emphasised the importance attached to the safety of every personnel of the service.

In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the katsina Customs Command Tahir Balarabe SPC , the CGC described the killing of the NCS operative as unprovoked,and painful.

,while expressing profound grief over the needless death of the gallant officer CGC Adeniyi,also commiserated with the family of the deceased and the entire Kayawa community over the painful loss .

” The brutal attack on the Customs operatives demonstrates the danger faced by men and officers of the Service in the line of duty .

The NCS in collaboration with other security agencies are tirelessly working to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full wrath of the law .

While we pray for the repose of the soul of Haruna ,we also assure his family and Kayawa community that the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to be with them during and after the grieving period ” CGC Adeniyi stated.

Meanwhile the Katsina state Governor Dikko Umar Radda ,has tasked security agencies to leave no stone unturned in their bid to arrest and prosecute the killers of Haruna .

Governor Radda who spoke when the CGC delegation paid him a visit at the Katsina state Government House said “It is very important that the security agencies in charge of investigation, ensure that the culprits are brought to book and justice done.

On behalf of myself and the good people of Katsina state ,I condole the Comptroller General of Customs and the entire personnel of the Service over the irreplaceable loss.”

Fish Out Those Behind Insecurity In Nigeria –Kano Gov Yusuf Charges Security Agents

Ayodele Oni

May 9, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Still in search of solution to insecurity in the northwest area of Nigeria, the Directorate of State Security Services (DSS) has rallied security chiefs in the zone for High-Security zonal conference in Kano.

The conference, according to organizers aimed to enhance operational and intelligence-sharing synergy among State SSS Directors across the Northwest Geopolitical Zone.

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, while addressing participants, called upon security agencies to intensify efforts in uncovering the sources of insecurity plaguing Nigeria.

Governor Yusuf emphasized the need for proactive strategies to address the escalating security challenges in the country.

“I challenge you to use intelligence data gathering to locate the whereabouts of those perpetrating the crimes,” Governor Yusuf urged, highlighting the importance of identifying the individuals or groups behind the attacks.

“Are they Politicians, Traditional Leaders, Religious or Business Community? Do more to unravel those sponsoring and conducting attacks on innocent lives for the Country to be peaceful.”

The conference, convened by the State DSS Director in Kano, Alhassan Muhammad, under the auspices of the Director General State Services, Yusuf Magaji BICHI, aimed to enhance operational and intelligence-sharing synergy among State SSS Directors across the Northwest Geopolitical Zone.

Alhassan Muhammad emphasized the complexity of today’s security landscape, ranging from cybersecurity threats to physical security challenges and from terrorism to armed banditry.

He underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange among security agencies and stakeholders to tackle these multifaceted challenges effectively.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, security concerns have become increasingly complex and multifaceted.

“Thus, this conference has curated a comprehensive program that features thought-provoking keynote presentations, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among DSS from various States.”

Enugu Property Belongs To The Military, Nigerian Army Insists

The Source

May 9, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigerian Army, on Thursday, May 9, 2024, insisted that until proven otherwise, the now contentious Enugu property situated at Plot 30 Abakaliki Road and encompassing 7 Abakaliki Lane in the Government Reservation Area GRA remains under its ownership.

Army Spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, a Major General, in a statement said until there is valid legal position proving that the said property does not belong to the military, any claims to the contrary are only predicated on misinformation.

His reaction, is coming amidst claims by a civil society group, Civil Rights Realization and Advancement Network CRRAN that the Nigerian Army is trying to confiscate the said property from its rightful owners, in complete defiance of the directives of the Chief of Army Staff,.

However, General Onyema, in the statement described the accusations as unfounded ,as well as intended to rubbish the Army’s ongoing efforts to enthrone peace and normalcy in the Southeast region of the country.

According to the Army Spokesman, the property in question has all along belonged to the institution, with its immediate past occupant as Colonel Emeka Ugwuoke Rtd, while in service.

He noted that Col. Ugwuoke was however evicted from the said property in April 2023 following his retirement from service, adding that some trespassers decided to encroach through a corner of the property from where the Nigerian Army evicted Col. Ugwuoke.

“The Nigerian Army is a disciplined institution that respects human rights and the rule of law . we urge the public to disregard the narrative that suggests the NA is acting unlawfully or without respect for due process.

The NA’s position is that the property remains under its ownership ,until proven otherwise through appropriate legal channels,and any claims to the contrary are based on misinformation” General Onyema stated.

Sirika, Daughter, Son-in-Law, Barred From Unauthorized Trip, Each Granted N100 Million Bail By Court

Akinwale Kasali

May 9, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Hadi Sirika, former Aviation Minister, has pleaded not guilty to the corruption charges leveled against him by anti graft agency, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, at the High Court at the Federal Capital Territory. The suspects are accused of alleged fraud to the tune of N4.135 Billion.

Sirika was arraigned before Justice Sylvanus Oriji along with his daughter, Fatima, his son-in-law, Jalal Sule Hamma, and a firm – Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, but was each granted bail to the tune of of ₦100 million with two sureties.

The daughter and son-in-law also pleaded not guilty to the six-count charges when read to them.

The sureties, according to the Court, must have landed properties in Abuja and also responsible citizens.

Also, the sureties must depose to an affidavit of means. The court also restricted the defendants from travelling abroad without its permission.

Justice Orji ordered that the defendants be remanded in prison custody if they failed to meet their bail conditions.

The court fixed June 10 and 11 for the resumption of the trial of the defendants.

Crisis Looms At Kano State-owned Maitama Sule University, As ASUU Kicks Over Breach Of Agreements

The Source

May 9, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities, Yusuf Maitama Sule University YMSU Kano State, Branch, has warned of a possible breakdown of industrial peace, should the visitor, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf fail to address some issues concerning the welfare of its members within a reasonable time frame.

ASUU has alleged that efforts so far made to convince the authorities of the Kano state to attend to its demands in the past nine months have continued to be rebuffed, noting that it may be forced to declare an industrial action as a last resort.

In statement jointly issued on Thursday May 9 2024, by Mansur Sa’id and Yusuf Gwarzo, Chairman and Secretary respectively in Kano, ASSU YMSU ,said that their demands which are encapsulated in three fold,include the improvement of conditions of service for its members,.

Other demands are the boosting and hastening of the growth and development of the university through increased funding,and strengthening and protection of university autonomy and academic freedom.

“On condition of service,the ASUU YMSU branch demands the immediate payment of the outstanding Earned Academic Allowance EAA totaling N178 million.

“The Union reached an agreement with the kano state Government to pay this sum in four installments starting from April,2024 . However ,there has been no release of the first installment to date.

“The Union also demands the payments of the outstanding Consequential Adjustment Arrears which stands at N111 million .

“Furthermore,the union is requesting the implementation of the newly approved Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure COUASS II,set on January,1 2023. as effective date” the statement partly reads.

ASUU ,said its decision to bring the situation to the public domain was the failure of several efforts to get the concerned authorities to accede to its demands.

The umbrella body of the University teachers ,while calling on the visitor, to the University to resolve the brewing industrial crisis, insisted that most of its demands which also include the payments of N35 000 Wage Award for six months ,had already been paid by all federal Federal Universities in the country.

Reps Member Lists Benefits Of Dualization Of Highways In Ekiti, Says It Unlocks Economic Potentials

Ayodele Oni

May 9, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

A member of the House of Representatives, Femi Bamisile, has said dualization of Ado-Ijan-Ikare road will unlock the economic and investment potentials of Ekiti state.

The representative of Ekiti South Federal Constituency II, comprising Ayekire/Ekiti East/Emure Local Governments, stated this in a statement in Abuja on Thursday.

The Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Delegated Legislation, also appealed to the federal government to speedily commence the dualization of the road project recently awarded to ease the suffering of people.

The road, which connects some state, federal and private institutions such as Federal Polytechnic, ABUAD, Knowledge Zone, Air Force Base and International Cargo Airport, as well as, linking Ondo State, has become death trap for motorists.

Bamisile, who commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for constantly interfacing with federal authorities for the project to come on stream, saying such efforts clearly showed that the governor feels the pain of the residents that suffer daily on the dilapidated road.

He said his major concern remains that the project will add immeasurable values to the economy of the state, as well as, complement Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s six pillars of development.

Bamisile, lamented the current decrepit status of the road, which he described as “becoming a booby trap threatening the lives of commuters”, saying the safety of Nigerians should also be accorded utmost priority.

“Let me commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for acceding to the request for the dualization of this highly pivotal road that favourably connects the Southwest to the Northern part of our country through the efforts of our progressive Governor, Biodun Oyebanji.

“It is quite commendable, because it came at a time when works are ongoing on the reconstruction of Ado-Ikere-Akure road. One can’t imagine the advantages the combined effects of these two projects will attract to Ekiti when completed.

“The Ado-Ikare road is of particular concern to me because it touches the lives of my constituents in Ayekire Local government. This local government is revered as a major cocoa, timber, palm tree and yams belt in Ekiti.

“My constituents’ contributions to the Gross Domestic Product(GDP) of Ekiti are enormous because of their comparative advantage in farming.

“If this project is completed, farmers in that axis would have limitless opportunities to transport some of their produce to Abuja, Kabba, Lokoja and Lagos markets for better profits. But as of now, the deplorable state of the road is inhibiting these opportunities and limiting farmers’ capacities to make profit.

“I appeal to the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, who had commendably visited the site of the project to as a matter of fact and urgency makes this road a priority being a major artery and nerve centre of Ekiti’s economic survival.

“The contractor has nothing to fear. My people are hospitable people. They will seamlessly cooperate with them to ensure that the project is successfully executed.”

War Against Insurgency: Defence Headquarters Takes Delivery Of Armoured Personnel Carriers

Ayodele Oni

May 9, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

In a renewed determination to continue with onslaught against insurgency, the Ministry of Defence, (MoD) has handed over 20 newly acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers, (APCs) to the Defence Headquarters to enhance the professional capabilities of troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

This is contained in a statement by Dr Ibrahim Kana, Permanent Secretary of the MoD in Abuja on Thursday.

The APCs were handed over to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, by the permanent secretary.

In his remarks at the handing-over event, Kana pointed out that that the step was geared towards bolstering the nation’s defence capabilities to effectively address emerging security challenges.

He also stated that it was geared towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

According to him, this handover marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the operational readiness of our Armed Forces.

“These Armored Personnel Carriers will provide our troops with enhanced protection and mobility, enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively in safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty.”

Similarly in his remarks, the CDS underscored their strategic importance in enhancing the Armed Forces’ ability to respond swiftly and decisively to security threats.

“The acquisition of these Armored Personnel Carriers underscores our commitment to equipping our troops with the necessary resources to confront evolving security challenges.

“I commend the Ministry of Defence for its unwavering support and dedication to strengthening our national defence capabilities.”

Musa also expressed gratitude for the acquisition of the APCs, noting that the handover ceremony signifies a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defence capabilities and safeguard national security.

According to him, with the acquisition of these 20 Armored Personnel Carriers, the Nigerian Armed Forces are better equipped to tackle the challenges of the modern security landscape and uphold peace and stability across the nation.

Also present at the ceremony was Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, the Chief of Defence Intelligence.

Thrills, Joys and Surprises of Selling

The Source

May 9, 2024

By Azu Ishiekwene

There are probably more books on how to sell everything than there is sand by the seashore. I have read a few myself and might say that when it comes to selling, even though what you have read might help, nothing teaches like what you learn by doing it.

For some, selling feels natural. I cannot remember how many times I have bought stuff that I really didn’t need because the seller made me feel like they were offering the moon on a stick. Good for those who have such skills but when it comes to selling, I’m far from a natural. I overthink, over-analyse and take failure to deliver rather personal – all perfect signs of a poor salesman.

Even after giving it my best shot, I linger on the matter, beating myself over the head about how I might have done better. That was probably why my first book, The trial of Nuhu Ribadu: A riveting story of Nigeria’s anti-Corruption war was not a commercial success, even though I closed it believing that recording that important phase of Nigeria’s life was more important than commercial success.

When I set out to write my second book, however, a couple of things had changed. Not the textbook principles of selling such as – place, product, promotions, price or physical presence. Sixteen years ago, when that first book was released, the Internet and social media were in their infancy. That has changed.

Thinking of writing?

And just as important, I cannot be thinking of writing a book about monetising content, without thinking about how the book will reward my effort, and of course, also inspire young writers. If that was ever going to happen, I needed to be intentional – and even if I fail, fail intentionally.

Being intentional meant digging a bit more beforehand to find the best combination of theory and practice. Given that social media was going to play a vital role in the effort, a digital migrant like me also needed to immerse a bit more in the cauldron where for many years I was more than happy to have just one toe in.

A group of closet experts – Adeyeye Joseph, Freeman Oloruntoba, Emeke Ishiekwene, Wilson Onwuka, Sam Ossai and Ololade Bamidele – prepped me for weeks on the perils and promises of riding a digital highway riddled with avatars and the armours I must always remember. On this road, it’s not enough to look left, right and left again, as your mother taught you. Timing, form, medium and message are just as important. Plus remembering all the time that the vocabulary in your standard English dictionary may have gone stale!

KK’s fan base rule

I must also share something from an article by Kevin Kelly updated in Tim Ferriss’ book, Tools of Titans. Kelly’s principle of 1,000 true fans says that a true fan is someone who will buy anything and everything you produce. This rule of true fans says that to be a successful creator, you don’t need millions. Not millions of dollars or millions of clients or millions of customers.

If you’re happy to make a living, and not a fortune, you need just 1k true fans who will climb any mountain, cross any river, and jump any hurdle to buy a minimum quantity of what you have produced over a period of time. With the over 3k contacts on my phone, I had to decide who among them could be superfans.

King’s exceptionalism

But a part of me also kept going to Stephen King. I don’t know what it was, whether it was genius or serendipity. But when he made his break there was neither Facebook nor X. There was no Instagram or LinkedIn. He was, quite frankly, an unknown; a man of promise and a good husband no doubt, but nevertheless an unknown part-time teacher and writer, hoping for a break someday. He didn’t have a community outside his family of his wife and three children, never mind a fanbase of 1k.

And then he produced Carrie, a book he totally didn’t expect much from when he mailed the manuscript to Doubleday, his publisher, that later passed the paperback rights to Signet Books. He was in his kitchen one day, long after the manuscript had been sent when he got a call from Doubleday that nearly knocked him off his chair. The book, which he would have been delirious to get only $30k from, had just fetched him $400k!

Genius or luck?

Don’t ask me what that was. Genius, serendipity or a good mix of both. But there you have it! No true fans, no social media, no promotions. Yet, boom! It happened.

You’re right. You don’t get a King every time. And so, I took my fate in my own hands hoping to put into play in the sale of Writing for Media and Monetising It, everything I have learnt about selling, from selling charcoal for my mother many years ago to selling newspapers for the past over 35 years I’ve been a journalist.

My experience in the past three weeks since Premium Times Books released my book has been funny, thrilling, with not a few surprises – and yet these are early days. Last week, I shared the concerns of one of the journalism’s icons and publisher of Vanguard, Sam Amuka, fondly called Uncle Sam, about how to get people to read the book.

Not an easy one but I’m hoping that sharing how folks can be rewarded – in a clear, relatable way – while they’re doing what they enjoy doing, might interest more than a few regular folks enough to read. I hope I’m right.

My ‘fan-mail’

If social media feedback were convertible – and there have been quite a number of heartfelt ones – then King might well be prepared for a good chase. Are you laughing, as I suspect?

But seriously, there have also been a few rather curious feedback. One follower – I’m not sure whether to classify him as super, lightweight or just a passer-by – sent a message congratulating me profusely for the book. I was naturally hoping the next thing he would ask was how or where he would buy a copy, to which I would have directed him to: www.azu.media. But no. He simply said, “Great one, Azu. Send me a copy!”

That put me on the spot, but not for long. After mulling how to respond, I said, “Thank you, Sir.” To which he responded with the meme of hands clasped in prayer. End of story!

Another one was more social. Amidst a video thread of greetings and wishes for commercial success, this follower simply said, “My own na you look good…brains plus charms…hmm.” To which I responded with the meme of hands clasped in prayers. Or what?

I know it’s still a long road to June 26 when the book will be publicly presented, but with followers like Brains Plus Charms, you’d better not rule out a Carrie story. Writing for Media and Monetising It, may not be a work of fiction like King’s Carrie, but it was invested with no less heart, passion and planning. The rest, perhaps, is a matter of luck!

Ishiekwene is Editor-In-Chief of LEADERSHIP

NASS Renovation: Northern Youths Drag Ndume Over Plot To Destabilise Senate

James Orji

May 9, 2024

A group, the Northern Ethnic Youths Group Assembly, NEYGA, has criticized Senator Ali Ndume over his recent comment on the renovation of the National Assembly.

Rather than dissipating his energy on such minute issues, the youths said Ndume representing Borno state in the Senate should focus on more important national issues.

Recall that Senator had in the course of the week, described the just renovated Senate Chamber as a “conference centre,” almost suggesting that the funds spent may not have been judiciously used.

Over N40 billion has been spent for the renovation, according to checks by the magazine.

Reacting, NEYGA said there are more important matters that require the attention of Senators, saying that what the NASS should focus on at the moment is how to turn the country around for the benefit of Nigerians.

According to the group, the NASS renovation is an internal issue that must be resolved as such, adding that Nigerians need not be involved.

Ibrahim Dan-Musa, the spokesman of the group said the Senate should concentrate on the serious business of lawmaking, warning against any plan to destabilise the upper chamber of the Assembly.

He said: “At a time when Nigerians are facing multiple taxations and levies, we expect the Senate leadership to engage in constructive dialogue and debate to alleviate the suffering of citizens.

“We are advising the Senate leadership to emulate the decorum and maturity displayed by their counterparts in the House of Representatives, as the Senate chamber is a revered institution for serious lawmaking, executive regulation, and government oversight.

“The group also called on Sen. Ndume to use his position as Chief Whip to ensure that the Senate focuses on important national issues and not get bogged down by internal affairs.

“They emphasised the need for the Senate to engage in constructive dialogue and debate to address the economic hardship facing Nigerians, rather than wasting time on trivial matters like renovation of the National Assembly chambers.”

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