Opinion

When You Have To Shoot ,Shoot Don’t Talk

Published

4 years ago

May 14, 2021

By Bala Ibrahim.

In the famous Italian western movie of the sixties, titled the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Eli Wallace, who played the Ugly under the name Tuco, was enjoying a bubble bath in the bathroom, when an enemy (Mario I suppose), that has long been out looking for revenge, walked in. Seeing Tuco naked and presumably helpless in the water, the enemy brought out his gun and started talking about how long he had waited for such a day to come.

Now he got him exactly in the position he wants him, and surely the end for the poor Tuco. Unknown to him, Tuco never leaves things to chance, or trusts any one, including himself. As he was busy making mouth and foolishly celebrating, Tuco raised his gun from under the foam and shot him straight, severally. While he was crawling on the floor from the devastation, Tuco gave him another parting shot and said, “When you have to shoot shoot, don’t talk!”

Today, Nigeria under PMB is almost in a similar scenario, as the government seems to be sliding towards slumber, while the quantity and quality of the enemies are silently swelling.

Organized crime syndicates are on the loose and on the increase, through kidnaping for ransom, attacks on the police and incessant agitations for the balkanization of the country. These tricks have succeeded in drawing the attention of the international community, just as they are forcing some state governments to succumb, or negotiate with the criminals, by paying huge sums of money as ransom to secure the freedom of abducted school children.

On Tuesday,11/05/21, PMB was compelled to preside over the National Security Council. It was the third in two weeks, and the mission is simply to stem the tide of the unending insecurity situation in the country.

Almost concurrently, another security meeting was holding in the south, by the governors of the southern region, which had in attendance 13 state governors and two deputy governors.

According to their statement, the southern governors meeting was to review the insecurity situation in the country, as well as the secession agitations and restructuring. But from the emphasis and body language of the chairman, who is the governor of Ondo state, Rotimi Akeredolu, they were more particular on open grazing of cattle, which they linked to the incessant killings by armed herders, and the movement of bandits to the Southern part of the country.

In summary, a 12 point agenda was released, with a ban on open grazing. According to them, “the population growth in the southern region has put pressure on available land, and increased the prospects of conflicts between migrating herders and host communities.

Eid-el-fitr:Kano Deputy Governor felicitates with Muslims
The Federal Government should support willing states to develop alternative and modern livestock management systems. As such, urgent and bold steps should be taken to restructure the Nigerian federation for it to make progress. There is the need for the evolution of state police, review of revenue allocation formula in favour of the sub-national governments and creation of other institutions which legitimately advance our commitment to and practice of true federalism.”

Similarly, on the same day, the Pan Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, had a meeting, wherein they called on PMB to resign with immediate effect. The group claimed that Buhari’s administration has failed to address insecurity and economic challenges confronting Nigeria.

In the south south, tension is high and the bubble is about to bust, over the reluctance of the president to direct Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to do the needful, by inaugurating the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission.

While this is happening, in Akwa Ibom State, of the same south south, the Commissioner of Police, Amiengheme Andrew, was crying over the loss of 21 personnel, 9 vehicles, and 11 firearms as a result of the series of attacks by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in conjunction with Eastern Security Network. (ESN). The commissioner disclosed this when Governor Udom Emmanuel led members of his executive to the police headquarters to commiserate with them on the deaths of some operatives.

In the north, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), was busy on air calling on members of the National Assembly to impeach the President, because of his failure to solve Nigeria’s insecurity problems.

Even at the doorstep of the President, there was an attempted robbery on Monday, where “unknown” persons tried to burgle the residence of the president’s chief of staff, Prof Ibrahim Gambari. Unknown persons, with a known agenda, I think.

In the face of these challenges, the government needs to go beyond the conventional and irritating rhetoric like the one coming out of the mouth of the minister for Information and Culture Lai Mohammed, that the Nigerian government and its security personnel have the wherewithal to crush all forms of insecurity in the country.

Also, the nation would appreciate it more, if the National Security Adviser, Gen. Monguno would allow the security chiefs to do their job, without the repeated, unending, boring, and tiresome public statements, that never yielded any positive result, viz, “the president has directed us to go after the criminals.” Gen. Monguno has said this times without number.

For God’s sake, in the first place, what were you employed to do? Pamper the criminals, or go after the law abiding citizens? And do you need the president to tell you this, or direct you every day?

When you have to shoot shoot, don’t talk, please.

Opinion

Let President Tinubu Rename University of Lagos After Gowon, Not Abuja

Published

4 days ago

December 18, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

I was not happy when Northwest University Kano was renamed to Yusuf Maitama Sule University, as student leaders of that University then, we followed the interest of the students who were also not happy with the renaming at that time for one reason; the renaming was politically motivated, to hurt the founder of the institution Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. I was busy mobilising students to protest, the next day I was invited to the DSS for questions where I spent hours and all the people we were mobilising the protest together ran and dissociated themselves from it. I have no option but to plead with the DSS to release me, assuring them that not a single student would protest the government’s action.

The renaming has affected many students who are seeking admission abroad; it’s Northwest University on my transcript and Yusuf Maitama Sule University on my certificate. This is kinda confusing and not good at all.

Politicians should immortalise individuals in their new projects not existing ones. The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is not good for the university’s alumni.

The President should have found a new project or built a new University by naming it after the former Head of State.

I don’t support the idea of playing politics by renaming our universities and this happens mostly in Nigeria.

Imagine waking up renaming the University of Maiduguri to Mohammed Goni University, Yobe State University to Ibrahim Geidam University, the University of Ibadan to Abiola Ajimobi University, the University of Lagos to Lateef Jakande University.

It will be bad for the alumni of the aforementioned universities to come across this.

Why is this only happening in Africa? Look at Makerere University in Uganda, it was established in 1920 but despite Yoweri Mosevenni’s long reign; he didn’t for once attempt to change it to even his name for selfish reasons.

He didn’t think of renaming the Entebbe International Airport after him but in Nigeria, we have this culture of renaming everything after individuals.

If you want to be immortalised, leave a lasting legacy as Gowon did in establishing NYSC. That enough is Okay and better than naming an institution after him.

President Tinubu should have renamed the University of Lagos after Gowon, not Abuja. I’m sure his people will reject this not for any reason but because of the large number of people that will be affected by it.

The University of Abuja Alumni were all crying over this painful decision.

Opinion

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya: Champion of Civil Society and Good Governance in Northern Nigeria

Published

5 days ago

December 16, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, is an influential Civil Society figure in Kano State and Northern Nigeria. He is currently serving as the Executive Director, Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), he has dedicated many years of his civil society activism as advocate for the promotion of democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, peace building and women empowerment

Amb. Waiya, holds number of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Master’s in Public International Law at Maryam Abacha, American University, Maradi, and he is currently pursuing a doctor of philosophy at Skyline University, Kano in International Relations

In the course of his career, he held several positions and managed a number of projects. He served as the Director, Alhilal Foundation, from 2003 to 2007, an organization which focused on women empowerment, through basic literacy and skills acquisition. He later coordinated the North West Zonal Office of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Foundation. Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, led and coordinated a number of Local Government Councils Elections Observation missions across 19 Northern states.

In 2011, Waiya managed the Campaign against Drug Abuse under the auspices of Northern Youth Assembly, a youth driven platform with leadership structures in the Nineteen Northern States. He served as Secretary, for both, Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign and Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Child Abuse, a project which was coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser, Child Welfare and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. His involvement in election observation coordination missions and various public engagements, highlights his commitment to civic engagement towards community development, democracy and good governance

Waiya’s extensive experience includes free consultancy support services to numerous Government Ministries and Agencies such as: Kano State Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development, Kano State Ministry for Community and Rural Development, office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Child Welfare, Ministry for Special duties, office of the special adviser, joint security services. He has facilitated numerous training workshops and seminars, impacting his knowledge, skills, experience on the community, particularly for community based organizations

In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to several key positions, such as the President, of the Kano Civil Society Forum, Chairman of the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks, Convener, Nigeria for Peace Project, Managing partner, United Nigeria Project, Head of Secretariat, Kano Peace Committee, Secretary General, National Action for Women Agenda,(NAWA), chairman, Board of Trustees, Northern Youth Assembly, (Majalisar Matasan Arewa) Fellow, Institute of Security and Strategic Studies, Fellow, Institute of International Peace and Secure Society, Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Financial Management, member, Commission of Inquiry on Missing persons, member, Implementation Committee, on the Recommendations of the Report of the Commission of inquiry on missing persons, member, Commission of Inquiry to investigate, various political violence and cases of missing persons, that occurred in the State from 2015 – 2023, member, Commission of inquiry to investigate protest, arson and destruction of public and private properties that occurred from 1st – 10th August, 2024 Amb. Waiya, served as Consultant on various government projects, such as: Kano State Security Trust Fund, Safe Corridor, Campaign against Drug Abuse, across the 44 Local Government Council Areas. Amb. Waiya”s active participation in peace building, policy advocacy and legislative reform has continued to impact positive change in Kano State, the North and Nigeria at large.

Opinion

“I Transition to PR and Digital Marketing to Transform Brands Globally” – Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

Published

6 days ago

December 15, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

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As 2024 comes to a close, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah reflects on his journey from journalism to public relations (PR) and digital marketing. With over a decade of experience in media and communications, Ibrahim’s transition was fueled by a desire to empower businesses—starting with Northern Nigeria but extending globally—to build impactful narratives and achieve sustainable growth.

“Every brand, regardless of location, deserves access to the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world,” Ibrahim says. “My goal has always been to bridge the gap in strategic communication, ensuring that no business is left behind.”

From Journalism to Strategic Communication

Ibrahim’s illustrious journalism career spans over a decade, during which he served as a Senior Reporter at TVC News, covering critical developments, including the Kano State Government House for three successive administrations. His work involved breaking major news stories, producing multimedia content, and engaging audiences through digital platforms.

“I’ve always been passionate about communication, but I realized I wanted to do more than report stories—I wanted to help brands craft their own,” Ibrahim shares. “That’s what led me to pivot into PR and digital marketing.”

To equip himself for this new journey, Ibrahim pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Master’s in Public Relations from Bayero University, Kano. He further honed his expertise with a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration and a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Skills Institute. These credentials underscore his commitment to mastering the art of strategic communication.

Empowering Brands Through Ayrah Media Concept

As the CEO of Ayrah Media Concept (AMC), Ibrahim leads a PR and creative agency that provides businesses with tailored solutions, including PR consulting, social media management, corporate campaigns, and digital marketing.

“My vision is to empower brands to connect with their audiences, tell compelling stories, and achieve global relevance,” Ibrahim explains. “Through AMC, we’re showing businesses—whether in Northern Nigeria or beyond—that they can reach new heights with the right strategies.”

In 2024, AMC worked on several impactful campaigns, including Ibrahim’s role as a Lead Consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, where he developed and executed PR and communication strategies to amplify the project’s impact.

Changing Perceptions and Building Bridges

Transitioning into PR and digital marketing came with challenges, including shifting perceptions about its value.

“Many businesses see PR and digital marketing as optional rather than essential,” Ibrahim says. “But the results are transformative. Strategic communication is not just about visibility; it’s about building trust, credibility, and lasting connections with your audience.”

This philosophy drives Ibrahim’s approach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes—whether local startups or established corporations—can access high-quality PR and marketing services.

Looking Ahead

Ibrahim’s vision for the future extends far beyond regional boundaries. While his roots and passion lie in Northern Nigeria, his focus is on creating strategies that resonate globally.

“Brands in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, or even New York share a common goal: to connect with people and make an impact,” he says. “My mission is to ensure that every business, regardless of size or location, has the tools and strategies to achieve that.”

In 2025, Ibrahim plans to document his professional journey in a book that will explore his experiences as a journalist and PR expert, offering insights into the evolving landscape of communication and its role in business success.

A Message of Gratitude

As he reflects on the year, Ibrahim expresses his gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “I’m incredibly thankful to my mentors, collaborators, and clients who have believed in my vision. Together, we’ve shown that impactful communication has the power to transform lives and businesses.”

With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is poised to lead the way in redefining PR and digital marketing, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.