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And Wike Will Speak at Great Ife, By Y.Z. Ya’u

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1 year ago

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And this is the news: Wike is to deliver a lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. According to the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Adebayo Simon Bamire, Nyesom Wike, CON, is to deliver the 2025 Matriculation Lecture on the topic “Partisan Politics, Party Loyalty and the Challenges of Party Supremacy in Nigeria,” which will be held in June. The first thing that came to my mind on reading that Wike, the loquacious Minister of FCT, the very architect of the political crisis in the opposition PDP as well as a chief combatant of the political derby in Rivers State, will deliver a lecture at OAU, Ile-Ife was to recall my student days. Ife of the 70s to early 90s was simply an incredible place to be for an activist, and that experience and exposure have remained an everlasting moment in my growth.

This was the university where the icon of left ideas and struggle in Nigeria, Dr. Segun Osoba, lectured for decades. He, along with Dr. Bala Usman of ABU Zaria, did the minority report to the Constitutional Conference in 1977 which till date is a reference point. Like Bala, his compatriot in the minority report, Osoba did not want to be called a Professor in a context in which a number of those claiming the title could not in all honesty be said to be representative of true professors.

Although like any other university, Ife (I use Ife rather than OAU to underline the fact that I am writing of both the pre-OAU and the OAU years) was deeply divided between the Left and Right (and its internal ideological battles were very bitter), however for outsiders, Ife was readily associated with anything about the left. It was here that Prof. Biodun Jeyifo, the first ASUU president, cut his teeth in radical unionism, and Ife played a key role in the eventual transformation of ASUU from a petty bourgeois staff Association of University Teachers which was only interested in arranging flight tickets to London for summer holidays to a union that became rooted in the imperative of the social transformation of the country.

In its contribution to ASUU, Ife has produced a legend of leaders who stood firm for the working class and the poor in the country. They include Prof. Omotoye Olorode, Idowu Awepetu and Dipo Fashina (Jingo) among many others. These three became a reference point of radical engagement in Ife. Indeed, in Dipo, the presidency of ASUU could once again return to Ife after Jeyifo. And their contributions in ASUU and indeed in social struggle in the country speak volumes.

Let it be remembered that Ife gave us such legal advocates for the poor as Femi Falana, the late Bamidele Aturu and Big Sam, just to name three of the most visible faces of this clan of lawyers for justice for the common man. It has also given us fine and formidable journalists in Owei Lakemfa, who would rise to the position of Secretary General of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Lanre Arogundade, a former NANS President. The campus gave us such cultural and literary giants as GG Darah, Yemi Ogumbiyi and many others, and the Ife Literary Tradition has in spite of all remained rooted in a left-wing commitment to this day.

Within the student population, Ife was as controversial as it had been on other fronts. Its student activists tended to belong to the Trotskyite Tendency, a matter that put it on a collision path with the Patriotic Youth Movement of Nigeria (PYMN), the key organization that was behind the strength of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). The Ife Trotskyites considered the PYMN as Stalinists who should be fought, just like the ruling class, ensuring that there was hardly unity in the left-wing movement.

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When an official of the World Bank decided to tour Nigerian Universities to sell the World Bank/IMF agenda of transforming Nigerian Universities, he was chased away from Ife. Months later, the leaders of the banned ASUU on the campus could organize a National Conference on the IMF and the University System in Nigeria to discuss the World Bank Agenda. While this was the outline for the conference, in actual fact, the conference provided the opportunity for ASUU activists from different universities to meet and strategize on how to continue with the struggle even as their union remained legally banned by the Military Government.

A day after the conference, when delegates were just leaving Ife for their respective bases, the Orkar Coup attempt occurred (Jega and I got the coup story while we were still at the Ife Central motor park, waiting for our vehicle to Kano to fill) and in the panicky response of the Government, it arrested the two arrowheads of the conference (Profs Olorode and Awepetu) along with Prof. Obaro, summarily dismissed them from their jobs and also charged them with treason (coup making) and they could remain detained for many months and only the legal tenacity of their lawyer got them out and reinstated into their jobs at Ife.

Ife was also one of the key nodes of both the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and the Democratic Alternative (DA) as well as fronts of these organizations that were set up to fight the military. And they fought tenaciously for people like PBAT to benefit. Ife was key to the founding of the Socialist Congress of Nigeria (SCON), the closest to what could be a contemporary Communist Party of Nigeria.

On the cultural front, Ife was a non-conformist environment. To be sure, on late afternoons, one was sure to find large numbers of students around the sports arena, members of the Christian Fellowship deep in prayer sessions and on Fridays you would see many men and women dressed for the Jumaat service, but by and large, it was no fertile ground for those warriors on behalf of God. Instead, the ever-watchful eyes of the Ogun and Orisa were there to keep a vigil on the lively campus. Ife was non-religiously religious.

In the past, no government official would like to have an Ife encounter, by taking the risk to address any public gathering on the campus. Even Vice Chancellors who have legitimate mandate to be there had trouble dealing with both their students and their colleagues in the academic union. Ife brooks no halfway measure nor tolerates hypocrisy: you are either for the masses or you are shouted out and escorted out of the campus.

This is the same university that a hawkish Minister will be going to address and tell the audience of the many good things that Uncle Bola Tinubu is doing in transforming the country. Of course, NANS has long been crushed and in its place a cash and carry non-students have assumed the leadership of students, the radical student movement which had been the backbone of NANS has been emptied out of the campuses, the PYMN has long collapsed and in its place mercenaries and rabid fundamentalists of all hues have taken over, while the radical tradition of ASUU is under stress. Who else is there to chase such an unwelcome guest? No one but his own political party in whose name he would be grandstanding.

This explains why a Wike would be at liberty to go there. But what will he say about party loyalty having spent years now serving in a government for which his party is the key opposition party? What party loyalty will he demonstrate when he decided to work against the presidential candidate of his party and worked to ensure that his party lost the election? How can someone who is doing everything possible to prevent the stabilization of his party be a credible person to talk about party loyalty?

Will he explain why the government is only happy to keep academics on poverty wages? Will there be an explanation why the libraries in the universities have no money to buy current journals and books for their shelves? Will there be an explanation on the lack of equipment and chemicals in the laboratories? Or now, come to think about it, will he explain why poverty is on the rampage in the country? These are not party loyalty matters: they tell the test of loyalty to the President.

But these questions were relevant before we lost our road long ago. Those who decided to afford him the podium on this topic have done a dishonor to not only the topic but to the nurturing and consolidation of democracy in Nigeria because they have chosen to promote the worst of party behavior in Nigeria as a possible example worthy of emulation. We wish him and his hosts good luck.

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Opinion

How Social Media Is Creating Jobs for Young Nigerians-Uzoamaka

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15 minutes ago

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August 3, 2026

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By Iheanachor Prosper Uzoamaka

Parents used to scold their children for staring at phone screens all day, warning that scrolling through social media would never pay the bills. Fast forward to today, and those very screens are helping thousands of families stay afloat across Nigeria. Faced with a challenging job market and limited corporate opportunities, many young Nigerians are no longer waiting for traditional employment. Instead, they are building their own digital careers from the ground up.

Walk into any neighbourhood and you will see it happening in real time. A student is scripting a comedy skit for TikTok, a vendor is updating her Instagram clothing store, and a freelance video editor is working on content for a client in London. Armed with little more than a smartphone, an internet connection, and determination, young people are creating opportunities for themselves while bypassing the traditional barriers to employment.

The Rise of the Creator Economy

Content creation is no longer just a hobby or a way to gain likes and followers; it has become a thriving industry. From comedians and dancers to tech reviewers and lifestyle vloggers, young Nigerians are turning everyday content into sustainable sources of income.

By building loyal audiences on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, creators become valuable partners for brands seeking to reach consumers online. What often begins as a passion project can grow into a full-time career through brand partnerships, sponsored content, advertising revenue, and affiliate marketing.

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Digital Marketing and Social Commerce

Beyond entertainment, social media has transformed the way business is conducted. Entrepreneurs no longer need millions of naira to rent physical shops in markets such as Kubwa or Wuse. Instead, many operate successful online businesses directly from their homes.

The rise of the “WhatsApp status vendor” has become a symbol of modern micro-entrepreneurship. Young Nigerians now sell products ranging from skincare items and thrift clothing to gadgets and food through social media platforms.

At the same time, established businesses increasingly depend on digitally skilled youths to manage their online presence. This has created growing demand for freelance social media managers, digital marketers, content strategists, and online customer service representatives.

Breaking Borders Through Freelancing

Perhaps the greatest advantage of social media and digital platforms is the opportunity to work beyond Nigeria’s borders. Talented graphic designers, writers, video editors, virtual assistants, and customer support agents are securing international clients through online platforms.

By working remotely, many young professionals earn in foreign currencies while living in Nigeria. This not only provides financial stability but also helps them build strong professional portfolios and gain valuable global experience.

Challenges Along the Way

Despite these opportunities, the journey is not without obstacles. High data costs, unreliable electricity, inconsistent internet access, and intense competition continue to pose significant challenges for many digital entrepreneurs. Success in the online space requires persistence, creativity, and continuous learning.

 

Despite the hurdles, Nigerian youths continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation. Social media has evolved far beyond a platform for communication and entertainment; it has become a powerful tool for entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic empowerment.

As the digital economy continues to expand, social media is proving that opportunities can be created rather than waited for. For many young Nigerians, a smartphone is no longer just a communication device it is an office, a marketplace, and a gateway to a better future.

Iheanachor Prosper
200lv student of Department of Development and strategic communication, University of Abuja

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Opinion

Why Sports Betting Is Becoming a Lifestyle Among Nigerian Youths-Yusuf Faizah 

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36 minutes ago

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August 3, 2026

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By Yusuf Faizah
Sports betting has gradually evolved from a recreational activity into a way of life for many Nigerian youths. What was once a weekend pastime has become a daily routine, with betting shops filled with customers and mobile betting apps recording thousands of users every day. From university campuses to busy city streets, betting has become deeply embedded in youth culture.

One of the major reasons for this growing trend is the promise of quick financial rewards. In a country where unemployment and economic hardship remain significant challenges, many young people see betting as an alternative source of income. The possibility of turning a small stake into a substantial payout makes it particularly attractive to students and job seekers seeking financial relief.

Technology has further accelerated this trend by making betting more accessible than ever. With a smartphone and internet connection, users can place bets within minutes from virtually anywhere. At the same time, betting companies continue to expand their reach through aggressive advertising, sponsorship of sports programmes, and promotional bonuses that attract new customers.

At the centre of this betting culture is football, Nigeria’s most popular sport. Millions of young Nigerians closely follow leagues such as the English Premier League and believe their knowledge of teams, players, and statistics gives them an advantage in predicting match outcomes. This confidence often encourages repeated participation, even after experiencing losses.

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Beyond economic hardship, the widespread promotion of betting and its growing social acceptance have also contributed to its popularity. Constant exposure to betting advertisements, discussions among friends, and success stories shared on social media have helped normalize gambling as part of everyday life for many young people.

However, this growing culture comes with significant risks. Many young people lose money they cannot afford to lose, while others develop gambling habits that negatively affect their education, employment, finances, and personal relationships. The excitement of occasional wins can quickly give way to frustration and financial distress as losses accumulate.

Sports betting can serve as a form of entertainment when approached responsibly, but it should never be viewed as a dependable source of income. As the industry continues to expand, greater efforts are needed to promote responsible gambling, strengthen public awareness, and address the economic conditions that push many young Nigerians toward betting in the first place.

Unless these issues are addressed, sports betting may continue to evolve from a recreational activity into a culture of financial dependence, with far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s youth and society as a whole.

Yusuf Faizah
200 Level Student, Department of Development and Strategic Communication, University of Abuja.

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Opinion

Kano Governor Yusuf Shortlisted for Africa’s SANKOFA Award of Excellence in Infrastructural Development

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1 week ago

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July 25, 2026

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By Abba Anwar

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf makes a list of potential Awardees across West African sub-region, observed and screened by an African association named Réseau des Jeunes du Sahel pour le Progrès, le Développement et la Démocratie (Network of Sahel Youth for Progress, Development and Democracy), on infrastructural development in their respective states.

The top most Award from the association, called Sankofa Award of Excellence across various sectors, is given to people or leaders who excel in their respective areas of work or responsibilities.

With the recent disclosure made by the Commissioner of Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring and Evaluation, Nura Ma’aji Sumaila, on the state of infrastructural development and payments of contracts in the state, the association included Kano to be part of the states across Nigeria and West African countries, screened for an Award of Excellence.

Source close to the association reveals that, Governor Yusuf’s achievements in the area of infrastructural development, could not be neglected and the Governor stands a better position to be seen and amplified across the globe. As a result of his commitment and service to humanity.

Parts of the major reasons that informed the association’s decision to include Governor Yusuf for Sankofa Award of Excellence for Infrastructural Development in West Africa is his genuine inclusion of infrastructures that are human centred, modern, location specified and standardization process and procedures.

According to the source, the Screening Committee saddled with the responsibility of selecting qualified personalities across West Africa are in their final stage of releasing the result. Assuring that, under infrastructural development, Kano excels. Though not officially announced.

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When Governor Yusuf gets this Award, he will be the second person from Nigeria who bags the Award. Last year the Deputy Senate President Barau I Jibrin, PhD, CFR, got the SANKOFA Award for Legislative Excellence in Africa. Coincidentally, Governor Yusuf who is also from Kano state, would be the second Nigerian in this category.

The President of the association Mr Fassoko Doumbia, from Mali, confirmed to my source that, from all indication, “Kano State Governor, from Nigeria, Mr Abba Kabir Yusuf is in the forefront of those screened for the Award.”

With this recognition of excellence, the Award places Governor Yusuf to be one of the best Nigerian governors. And the best across West Africa on infrastructural development. One good thing about the Award is, it will as well serve as an engine oil for state commitment and unwavering service delivery.

Mr Doumbia reveals further that “… it is amazing looking at the unmatched number of completed and ongoing projects as Kano has 799 completed projects and 709 projects at various stages of completion. It is encouraging to see that Governor Yusuf is executing over 1,508 developmental projects across all 44 LGAs.”

What keeps hope and commitment alive are the transparent monitoring, evaluation and effective payment to contractors. Of which out of N928 Billion of the total contract sum, the state has already paid over N600 Billion, that’s 64.7% payment rate.
Unlike in many states in Nigeria and West Africa. The association believes that Kano institutionalized transparency through the Ministry of Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring and Evaluation.

The screening committee appreciated Kano’s strategic and balanced infrastructure spread, between urban and rural areas plus improved security. For urban renewal it has the sum of N169 Billion. While there are 5km roads in 38 LGAs with the sum of N118 Billion. They appreciated the rural infrastructure across 44 LGAs with the sum of N397 Billion for roads, education, healthcare, and social services.

While under security infrastructure the total sum of N6.863 Billion for Neighborhood Security Watch offices in 36 LGAs. This assured deliberate, balanced development with value for money, quality delivery, and measurable impact on the lives of the people. All courtesy Governor Yusuf.

It serves also as indices of how Governor Yusuf makes the list for such Award, that his infrastructures are signals for the delivery of landmark, human-centered projects as Kano completed tangible projects that directly improve lives of the citizenry, with 40 metropolitan roads, 44 PHCs, 120 schools, 5 water plants, with the ongoing Dan Agundi and Tal’udu flyovers at over 80% completion.

It has also been discovered that, Kano enjoys proven technical leadership and political will. Which glaringly displays the political will and technical competence required to drive massive infrastructure without corruption or delays. This is part of the major engagements being identified, which eventually resulted into the popular Sankofa Award of Excellence.

Anwar writes from Kano
Saturday, 25th July, 2026

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