ECOWAS's decision to lift sanctions on Niger, despite the country's military coup and democratic backsliding, has raised concerns about the organization's commitment to democracy and good governance. This move may signal to other nations that flouting democratic norms carries no consequences, potentially destabilizing the region further and undermining ECOWAS's legitimacy and credibility. The decision could prioritize economic interests over human rights and democratic principles, setting a dangerous precedent in West Africa.

Nigeria has been grappling with the challenge of hard drugs since the 1980s, with 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15-64 involved in drug abuse. Despite the establishment of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in 1990, the agency struggles with limited resources and corruption, making it difficult to combat the growing drug trade. The NDLEA's efforts are further complicated by the emergence of new drugs and sophisticated trafficking methods. Corruption within the agency and connections between cartels and influential Nigerians hinder progress. Addressing the drug problem requires a comprehensive approach, including stronger enforcement, social and economic development, and international cooperation. Advocacy through schools, churches, and civil society organizations is also essential for promoting drug-free lifestyles.

Professor Benjamin Obi Nwabueze, a renowned constitutional lawyer and advocate for restructuring in Nigeria, passed away at the age of 92. Despite his achievements, including drafting the Zambian and Kenyan constitutions and authoring numerous publications, Nwabueze died feeling unfulfilled due to Nigeria's failure to adopt a more practicable constitution and federalism. He criticized the centralization of power in the 1979 and 1999 Nigerian Constitutions and supported restructuring to achieve a balanced federation. Nwabueze's legacy includes co-founding the socio-cultural organization Ohanaeze NdiIgbo, and his vision for a better Nigeria through constitutional reform remains a call to action.

The article reflects on Nigeria's missed opportunities to become a global superpower and the divergence between the noble aspirations of its founding fathers and their actions. It highlights historical missteps, including the Western Region crisis, the Tiv crisis, and the 1964 and 1965 elections, which led to military coups, pogroms, and a civil war. The piece criticizes the leadership since independence for its trial-and-error approach and corruption, which has cost Nigeria nearly $600 billion. It calls for a collective effort to revitalize the vision of a greater, stronger, and united Nigeria.

The article criticizes former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his ongoing critiques of President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, particularly regarding security issues. It highlights Obasanjo's history of criticism and questions his own record on security during his tenure. The text defends Buhari's efforts to tackle insecurity, suggesting that Obasanjo's criticisms are unconstructive and aimed at undermining the current administration. The article calls for Buhari to focus on improving security to prove critics wrong and restore public confidence.

The article commemorates the lives and contributions of Major General Alexander Madiebo and Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin. Madiebo, a key figure in the Nigerian and Biafran Armies, is celebrated for his leadership during the Nigerian Civil War and his insightful memoir on the conflict. Oshodin, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, is remembered for his academic excellence, administrative prowess, and integrity. Both men are honored for their significant impacts in their respective fields and their legacies are highlighted as exemplary.

The article criticizes the recent decision by the Federal Ministry of Education to increase the fees of Federal Government Colleges by 122%, arguing that it makes quality education inaccessible to many Nigerians. It questions the rationale behind such a steep hike, especially in the context of recent economic changes like the removal of subsidies and the floating of the Naira. The text calls for a review of the policy, highlighting the potential negative impact on students from less affluent backgrounds and questioning the government's commitment to education as a tool against poverty.

The article celebrates the 89th birthday of Professor Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, highlighting his significant contributions as a nationalist, novelist, poet, playwright, and human rights activist. It defends Soyinka's legacy against contemporary critics, emphasizing his intellectual and sociopolitical impact in Nigeria and beyond. The text also reflects on Soyinka's role in challenging military and civilian administrations, advocating for democracy, and maintaining his dignity and that of the academia. The article concludes with a tribute to Soyinka's enduring influence and legacy.

The article criticizes El Rufai for exploiting religious divisions in Nigeria, particularly in Kaduna, and for his descent from a position of a respected leader to one who panders to religious superiority. It questions the integrity of the Nigerian leadership class and warns against the dangers of leaders like El Rufai who may deepen religious and ethnic tensions. The author reflects on the duality of leadership and the importance of the decisions leaders make, urging El Rufai to amend his ways or continue on a downward spiral.

The article criticizes Nigerian statesmen El Rufai and Ganduje for their recent actions, which are seen as a departure from the honorable conduct of past political figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Shehu Shagari. El Rufai is accused of promoting Islamic extremism, while Ganduje is described as threatening violence against his predecessor, Rabiu Kwankwaso. The piece reflects on the political climate in Nigeria, particularly the controversy surrounding the Muslim/Muslim ticket in the upcoming 2023 presidential election, where Bola Ahmed Tinubu is running with Kashim Shettima.

Nigeria is experiencing a significant rise in food prices, with staples like rice, beans, and garri becoming increasingly unaffordable for many households. This price surge is pushing millions below the poverty line and exacerbating malnutrition among children. Despite local rice production, prices remain high due to policy and import restrictions. Other staples have also seen price increases, forcing families to cut back on food quality or other expenses. The rise in food prices is attributed not only to global factors but also to domestic issues such as inadequate storage facilities, poor transportation, incomplete agricultural policies, and escalating insecurity, including conflicts between herdsmen and farmers, terrorism, banditry, and ethnic clashes. The situation undermines the government's agricultural achievements and calls for urgent action from policymakers.

The article discusses the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections in Nigeria, questioning the nature of rigging that led to losses for the ruling party in its strongholds. It condemns violence and ethnic profiling in Lagos and the Southeast, while also questioning the pathways to victory for candidates like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. The author criticizes Obi's campaign strategies and reflects on past election irregularities, particularly those involving former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The text suggests that despite imperfections, the 2023 elections were relatively free and fair, and the lessons learned should guide future democratic processes.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo's New Year's letter, which criticized Bola Ahmed Tinubu's use of the slogan 'Emilokan' during his presidential campaign. The author argues that Obasanjo's criticism is hypocritical, given his own history of using similar slogans, and defends Tinubu's right to express ambition. The piece suggests that Obasanjo harbors envy towards Yoruba men aspiring to Nigeria's leadership and dismisses his critique as a fuss over nothing, ultimately endorsing 'Emilokan' ahead of the February 25th, 2023 elections.

The article discusses the travel advisory issued by the US and UK Embassies in Nigeria on October 22nd, warning of potential terrorist attacks in the nation's capital, Abuja. This led to a temporary shutdown of embassy activities and a recommendation for non-emergency staff and citizens to leave the country. The Nigerian Government, through Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the Minister for Information, criticized the advisory, suggesting it was an overreaction and asserting that Nigerian security forces were in control. The author questions why only the US and UK issued the advisory and whether the intelligence could have been shared more effectively to avoid public panic. The article also touches on the broader implications of the advisory for Nigeria's international relations and the perceived competence of its security apparatus.

The article discusses the failure of the Nigerian government to implement the Safe Schools Initiative and the Safe Schools Declaration, which were established in response to the kidnapping of schoolgirls by Boko Haram. Despite these initiatives, attacks on schools, particularly in the NorthWest and NorthEast regions, have continued, resulting in trauma for students, teachers, and parents. The author highlights the closure of schools due to security threats, the stalling of children's education, and the lack of implementation of safe school models due to issues such as funding and poor state of internally displaced camps. The article also mentions the Senate President's criticism of the initiative's implementation and the urgent need to address the safety of schools to protect the education of millions of children.

The article critically examines Governor Soludo's request for a N100 billion loan for infrastructure development in Anambra State, questioning the speed and lack of scrutiny in the approval process by the state house of assembly. It highlights concerns about the specific projects targeted, the loan's interest rate, and its potential impact on urbanization and poverty reduction. The author calls for greater accountability and transparency, emphasizing the importance of proper loan utilization for the state's development.

The article discusses the recent attack on the Kuje Custodial Centre in Nigeria, highlighting the failure of the nation's security architecture. It questions the efficiency and integrity of the security management and the presence of fifth columnists within the system. The author criticizes the decision to house terrorists in a single facility and points out the lack of effective intelligence that failed to prevent the attack. The piece reflects on President Buhari's response and the need for a comprehensive report to address the security lapses. The article suggests that the current security strategies are not working and calls for a significant overhaul to protect the lives and properties of Nigerian citizens.

The article discusses the controversial policy proposed by the Governor of Zamfara State, Nigeria, which encourages citizens to arm themselves against bandits. The author questions the constitutionality of the policy, the types of firearms to be allowed, and the financial implications of such a policy. Concerns are raised about the potential negative consequences, including the lack of psychological evaluations for gun owners and the risk of escalating violence. The author suggests that instead of arming citizens, the governor should focus on improving state and community policing, restructuring the security architecture, and enhancing the training and welfare of vigilantes. The article concludes by acknowledging the governor's concern for the safety of his citizens and viewing his call as a wake-up call to Nigerian authorities to address the banditry menace more effectively.

The article discusses the escalating violence in SouthEast Nigeria, comparing the current situation to the NorthEast's experience with Boko Haram. It questions the alignment of recent violent and fearful acts with the original identity of Biafra, which stood for sacrifice, patriotism, resourcefulness, and unity. The author expresses concern that the actions of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their supporters are counterproductive to the Biafran legacy. The text reflects on the historical context of Biafra's struggle for independence and the legacy of international support, while lamenting the current trajectory of the secessionist movement.

The article discusses the identity of Biafra, a nation born from the Eastern Region's secession from Nigeria due to persecution and violence. It challenges the view that Biafra was a product of Colonel Emeka Ojukwu's ego, instead presenting it as a collective response to the massacre of Easterners in Nigeria. The piece argues that Biafra was not an Igbo-only republic, highlighting the diverse ethnic groups involved. It also addresses the international politics of the time, noting Biafra's alliances were out of survival necessity rather than ideological alignment. The legacy of the Biafran war is still felt today, with ongoing marginalization of the Igbo people, but the article asserts that Biafra's identity is rooted in the people's will for freedom, justice, and survival.

Nigeria ranks low in the Global Youth Wellbeing Index, falling behind countries like Vietnam, Kenya, and Uganda. Despite various youth-focused policies and the 'Not too Young to Run Act', Nigerian youths face significant barriers to leadership and decision-making roles, with the average age of the highest policy-making organ being 60 years. The youth are marginalized, lacking access to quality education, opportunities, finance, and healthcare, leading to a cycle of crime and despondency. This marginalization is seen as deliberate by the elite to maintain control. Historical figures like Azikiwe, Awolowo, Ojukwu, Gowon, and Dietre Spiff are cited as examples of young leaders who once held significant responsibilities in Nigeria.

The article discusses the deteriorating state of tertiary education in Nigeria, highlighting the frequent strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) due to the Federal Government's (FG) failure to meet their demands. The author, a product of the University of Benin, reflects on the impact of these strikes on students' academic timelines and the quality of education. The article criticizes the FG for not fulfilling its agreements with ASUU, such as funding for university revitalization and the deployment of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS). It also touches on the broader issues of underfunding, corruption, and the elite's indifference to the crumbling education system, urging the FG to take action before it's too late.

The article pays tribute to Chief Charles Amilo, a former member of the Old Anambra State House of Assembly, commissioner for information, and Chairman of the board of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede. Born in 1945, Amilo was a scholar and a politician who played a significant role in Anambra's political history, including the 2nd Republic and the Third Republic. He was known for his oratory skills, knowledge of history, and loyalty to his principles. The author reflects on personal interactions with Amilo, highlighting his mentorship and impact on the author's career. Amilo's loyalty and steadfastness are emphasized as exemplary, and his passing is mourned.

The article criticizes former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan's governance, highlighting alleged corruption, poor handling of the Boko Haram crisis, and political conflicts during his tenure. It questions his potential return to office, considering the constitutional implications and the political strategy of crossing over to the APC. The piece argues that Jonathan's ambition to return to Aso Rock is inappropriate for a modern statesman and could be detrimental to the South's political influence due to zoning agreements.

The author reminisces about childhood Christmas memories and the joy and nostalgia the Yuletide season brings. Christmas is seen as a time for sharing, reflection, and expressing joy common to humanity, transcending religion and ethnicity. It is a call to ring in the common good, with the hope of reconciling, bringing peace and goodwill. The author hopes that during Christmas, people will strive to live true to its meaning and rededicate their lives to the common good, regardless of their status in Nigeria.

The article criticizes Chukwuma Charles Soludo's gubernatorial ambition in Anambra, Nigeria, questioning his credibility based on past actions and statements. It references his time as an economic adviser and his role in the banking sector consolidation, suggesting that his actions were transactional and self-serving. The article also criticizes the current state of Anambra under Governor Willie Obiano, implying that Soludo's support for Obiano was misplaced. It casts doubt on Soludo's ability to deliver on his promises if elected.

Igboeli Arinze discusses the significant rise in food prices in Nigeria, attributing it to inflation and the economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The article highlights the impact of soaring prices on staples like rice, beans, and garri, which have increased beyond the financial reach of many Nigerians, pushing millions below the poverty line and exacerbating malnutrition among children. Arinze points out that despite local production, prices remain high due to policy issues, lack of investment, and inadequate infrastructure. The situation is further aggravated by insecurity, including conflicts between herdsmen and farmers, terrorism, banditry, and ethnic clashes, which disrupt farming activities and contribute to supply shortages. The author calls for urgent action from the government and relevant bodies to address these challenges and prevent further hardship for Nigerians.