International

Principles and Politics with Governor Deval Patrick -Dr MJ Yushau

Published

2 years ago

January 27, 2023

Professor Deval Patrick

By Dr. Muhammad Jameel Yushau

Thursday was the first day of class with Professor Deval Patrick on “Principles and Politics.” Unlike most classes that take place twice a week at HKS,Deval Patrick’s class will hold on Wednesdays only from 4:30pm to 7:15pm.

I was attending the editorial meeting of The Africa Policy Journal when I realized it was five minutes to class. So we rounded up the meeting, and I rushed to the class. As I entered, the class was full. Everybody was seated. I started scanning the room looking for a seat, i found one on the front row. I greeted Deval on the way, shook his hand, and to my surprise, he said “Hi Jameel.” Perhaps he has recognized me from the shopping day when I asked him a few questions.

The class began with a poll as many professors do to gauge the understanding of concepts or help them clarify issues. Ahead of the class, we have watched several videos of Ted Kennedy’s interview launching his presidential campaign in 1979, as well as his convention speech after he lost the primaries to President Jimmy Carter. We also watched Ronald Reagan’s video launching his campaign in 1979.

HKS Diary (25): One holiday, eight cities

The class went straight into analyzing the ‘why’ in the desire of of both Kennedy and Reagan to seek for public office. What were their motivations, desire for impact, vision and readiness to seek for the presidency? How authentic were they, and whom were they targeting?

Students shared multiple perspectives about modern day politics. What I found most intriguing in the discussion is the similarity in the challenges faced by many countries. Students who spoke came from several countries, including Argentina, Costa Rica, Nigeria, United States and more. The challenges of campaign financing contributing in breaking the ethos of politics and how legislators spend more time seeking for campaign financing rather than focusing on the job resonated with many students. If you think your country is the only one facing challenges, you need to spread your net of learning. Neither developed or developing countries have a political system that is perfect. Nor do they have public office holders who are flawless. Every country is a work in progress within the realm of their development.

Unlike many classes, Professor Patrick provides ‘refreshment’ to the 100 students taking his course. The class might be late in the day, but it provides both intellectual refreshment and a light dinner to keep the energy level going. Next week, he will be inviting two former presidential candidates to speak to the class.

A little surprise for me after I commented in the class about politics in Nigeria, Professor Patrick told me he once lived in Kaduna, and he has visited my home town of Kano, in fact he has the ‘kaftan’ that he received during his visit.

Takeaway: Learning does not come from the teacher alone. You learn a lot from fellow students. That was the atmosphere established by Deval Patrick on Thursday.

Related Topics:Governor Patrick Professor

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International

ActionAid Nigeria Commemorates International Peace Day with Cultural Festivities

Published

1 month ago

September 26, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

By Naziru Idris Ya’u

Celebrating Peace: ActionAid Nigeria/Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative Commemorates International Peace Day with Cultural Festivities

On a radiant day marked by vibrant cultural displays, ActionAid Nigeria/Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative commemorated the International Day of Peace with an event that brought together communities in a celebration of harmony and resilience.

The Peace Fiesta, held in honor of this significant occasion, showcased various cultural troupes that performed traditional dances, songs, and skits, emphasizing the theme of unity amid diversity.

Speaking at the occasion, Andrew Amebu, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, articulated the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and sustainable peace in communities. “Today, we celebrate not just peace, but the ideals of brotherhood and the importance of understanding across cultures and nations,” she stated. “This event is a reminder that our shared commitment to peace is groundbreaking for the futures we want to create.”

Over the past 20 months, ActionAid Nigeria has made significant inroads into building community resilience against violent extremism. The organization recently provided livelihood equipment worth 100 million Naira (approximately 71,428.5 USD) to 600 youth and women across Kano and Kaduna States. These beneficiaries, trained in seven different vocational skills, are a vital part of the organization’s effort to promote socio-economic stability and discourage violent extremism.

Hajiya Dankabo highlighted that over 15,000 direct beneficiaries have been engaged in sensitization programs, cultivating a culture that values peaceful coexistence and embraces diversity. The ripple effect of these programs is evident in the increasingly harmonious interactions within these communities.

Partnering with the Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative (DRDI), the event also featured novelty football matches aimed at improving peace and social cohesion among community members. “Sports have emerged as a vital tool for unifying people, transcending differences, and creating a peaceful environment,” remarked the Executive Director of DRDI, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Yahaya, who noted that such initiatives are crucial for strengthening communal ties.

International Peace Day, observed annually, is a global call to action that encourages individuals and communities to prioritize peace above all differences. The day resonates deeply with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), both of which are instrumental in fostering a harmonious world.

This year’s theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” served as an impetus for ActionAid Nigeria to mobilize communities against ethnicism, discrimination, and intolerance. Supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) in collaboration with Global Peace Development, the organization has been implementing the System and Structure Strengthening Approach Against Radicalisation to Violence Extremism (SARVE III) project. This initiative has resulted in the establishment of 24 women’s safe spaces along with Peace Clubs and Local Conflict Management Alliances aimed at enhancing early warning capabilities for conflict and promoting peacebuilding efforts.

The cultural extravaganza at the event was a fitting highlight, demonstrating how art and tradition can symbolize and signify the ideals of peace and stability in communities. Each performance served as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that binds communities, encouraging them to embrace their differences as a source of strength rather than division.

As the sun set on the event, the atmosphere lingered with hope and the promise of ongoing efforts toward building resilient, peaceful communities throughout Nigeria. ActionAid’s initiatives reflect a broader commitment to weaving peace into the fabric of society—an endeavor that requires continuous collaboration, engagement, and education for lasting impact.

International

RE : Saudi Arabia National Day 94

Published

1 month ago

September 24, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman

By Abba Anwar

As I flipped through the pages of the Daily Trust Newspaper on Monday, September 23, 2024, a paid advert caught my attention. The Consulate General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria rejoiced with King Salman Bin Abdul’Aziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Muhammad Bin Salman Al-Saud, and the people of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the Kingdom’s 94th National Day.

The historical account of Saudi Arabia’s National Day, which began under King Abdul’Aziz Bin Abdurrahman Al-Saud, fascinated me. However, what truly captured my interest was the Kingdom’s bold strides in socio-economic development, positioning itself as a key player in the global arena.

Saudi Arabia’s determination to become an active member of the G20 Industrial Growth and Digitization is commendable. The upcoming Saudi Infrastructure Summit aims to bring public and private stakeholders together to collaborate and discuss challenges in delivering infrastructure.

The Kingdom’s $1 trillion Saudi Vision 2030 is an audacious plan to propel Saudi communities into a brighter future. This visionary initiative seeks to integrate modern advancements in science, technology, industrialization, and innovation into the fabric of Saudi society.

Under Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia is transitioning from a stagnant entity to a robust and responsive political entity, actively engaging in global economic development. The Kingdom’s political economy is undergoing a remarkable transformation.

Saudi Arabia is no longer an entity without a future industrial plan. Instead, it is embracing global incorporation of modern advancements, shedding its conservative understanding of growth and development.

The Kingdom’s membership in the G20 and its interest in hosting the Saudi Infrastructure Summit demonstrate its commitment to reducing dependence on oil exports. Investments in renewable energy, tourism, and manufacturing are poised to drive economic growth.

Initiatives like the Saudi Industrial Development Fund will support local industries, making the Kingdom a rallying point for true industrialization.

Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman recognizes the importance of investing in education, research, and innovation. Partnerships with international institutions will develop human capital, essential for Saudi Arabia’s transformation.

The Kingdom’s participation in global forums, dialogues, and cooperations under Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman’s leadership has opened up new markets and opportunities. Its membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO) is a testament to its commitment to global engagement.

Infrastructure development, social reforms, and economic empowerment are transforming Saudi Arabia into a hub for industrialization and global cooperation. The Crown Prince’s vision for a more liberal and diversified economy is unfolding.

Saudi Arabia’s bilateral relationship with Nigeria, established in 1961, is strengthening under Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman’s leadership. This partnership promises to foster economic growth, development, and global understanding.

As Saudi Arabia celebrates its 94th National Day, its remarkable progress under Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman is a beacon of hope for Muslims, Islamic nations, and the world at large. The Kingdom’s transformation is a testament to its dedication to global industrialization and cooperation.

Anwar writes from Kano State, Nigeria
Can be reached on
fatimanbaba1@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 24th, 2024

International

Plane Crashes With Passengers In Brazil

Published

3 months ago

August 9, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Footage broadcast by TV GloboNews showed a large area on fire and smoke appearing to billow from an apparent plane fuselage.

A passenger plane carrying 62 people has crashed in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Footage broadcast by TV GloboNews showed a large area on fire and smoke appearing to billow from an apparent plane fuselage.

The plane carrying 62 people, including crew members, has crashed in the city of Vinhedo, Brazil, according to the local firefighters Corps, Sky News reports.

The Voepass flight, an ATR-72 plane, was travelling from Cascavel in Parana state to Guarulhos in Sao Paolo state when it went down.

Voepass has confirmed the incident but has not yet released information on potential fatalities or injuries.

The cause of the crash is still unknown.