Opinion

Rainy Season: Need for the Needful

Published

6 months ago

June 27, 2024

By Sani Surajo Abubakar

A rainy season (also known as a wet season) is a time of the year where the majority of a country’s or region’s annual precipitation occurs. Rainfall is experienced throughout the year in Nigeria, with most significant rainfall occurring from April to October, and with minimal rainfall occurring November to March.

As predicted by the NiMet (Nigerian Meteorological Agency), this year’s raining season has set in expectation of heavy downpour and flooding in some communities spread across the country especially those in the coastal areas.

The NiMet’s 2024 rainfall prediction indicated that the rainfall is expected to begin in the first week of April, and end in the first week of December. It is also predicted the delay of rainfall in some parts of the country, especially in the North – Central states. However, other parts of the country are likely to observe normal to above normal annual rainfall amount.

In normal circumstances, the rainy Season in the northern Nigeria if not for the effects of weather and climate Change, do set in early June and ceased to stop towards the middle or end of October or in the first week of November as the case may be.

The coming of the rainy season brings succor and reduce the disturbing heat of the dry weather, yet, while the rain can be enjoyable, it also poses certain health risks for people to be cautious of to enjoy the period and tap from its enormous benefits.

One of the health risks that the rainy season comes with is food and water contamination. Watching food and water to use during the season is very crucial as food and other factors may have contaminated the water or food to use.

Careless handling and improper storage of food and water can lead to contamination and brought about illnesses capable of disastrous consequences.

To avert food and water contamination, people need to maintain proper hygiene practices such as washing hands before handling food, thoroughly cooking food, storing perishable items appropriately and always consume freshly cooked food and avoid eating loosely during the period.

Secondly, rainy season often increases mosquito population. As it the period that mosquito breeds due to the availability of stagnant water and conducive atmosphere for breeding. The higher the rate of mosquito breeding, the higher the heightening the risk of mosquito-related diseases such as malaria, Zika virus, and dengue fever among others.

For people to protect themselves, they need to eliminate stagnant water around their residences, use mosquito repellants, wear long sleeves dresses especially at night, sleep under mosquito nets. Additionally, people should consider using screens or mosquito nets on windows and doors to prevent mosquito entry.

Waterborne illnesses are caused by recreational or drinking water contaminated by diseases or can be acquired by consuming contaminated food or beverages from contact with animals or their environment, or through person-to-person spread.

During the rainy season, water sources can get contaminated, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as Cholera, typhoid, and so on. These diseases are transmitted through contaminated water or contact with infected surfaces.

It is pertinent in reducing the risks to drink safe, purified water, maintain good personal hygiene and avoid playing or working in floodwaters.

Furthermore, on the health risks that accompanied rainy season is the possibility of increasing respiratory infections, including common cold, flu and respiratory allergies and can trigger conditions like sickle cell anemia if care is not taken.

The state of being between dry and wet (damp) environment promotes the growth of mould, fungi and allergies which at long run exacerbate respiratory and other related conditions.

To totally overcome or minimize the risk of developing the said infections and other medical conditions, people should maintain good hygiene practices, avoid crowed places if possible, keep living spaces well ventilated and free from dampness.

Slip and fall accidents also do accompanied the rainy season. This is happening in wet and slippery surfaces and accounting to higher percentage of injuries like sprains, dislocations, fractures, head trauma and other diseases witness in such period.

To reduce the possibility of having slip and fall accidents, people should wear appropriate footwear with good traction, use hand rails when available, and walk cautiously on wet surfaces. It is advisable further to keep living and work space areas well-lit and clear of potential hazards and not to step or stroll in flood water, no matter how small.

Another risk that occurred in the rainy season is flooding. The floods due occur when water overflows from the normal boundaries of a stream, river or other body of water, or accumulates in an area that is usually dry. The floods usually come with devastating effects as it renders many people homeless, loss of property and to some extent lives.

To avoid occurrence of flooding, waterways must be cleared and people should desist from erecting structures on waterways and channels for safety and comfortability of habitation at residences, markets, places of worship, public buildings among others.

Also, drainages should be desilted, cleared and authority concerned must ensure evacuation of refuse and enforce stiffer penalties on recalcitrant who dump refuse in drainages and water ways.

Despite the risks of the rainy season and the ways to avoid them stated above, and with total and unrelented commitment of all the stakeholders, people can enjoy hitches free rainy season and maximally benefitted from enormous bounties, bumper harvest and blessing the season do brought.

Sani, is an Assistant Information Officer, Government House, Kano

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.