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Christianity, Prayers & Antidepressants: Is the Brain at Home with Addiction?

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By Nneka Okumazie

There is no direct medication to cure pathological lying – at least for now. The meds and psychotherapies available aim at contiguous disorders. But there is also no pill to solve intermittent lying. The one that comes to mind in the moment, from nowhere, said to save the moment.

There is also no pill to solve bitterness, wickedness, greed, envy, pride, lust, desperation, and the likes. But there are lots of meds for several kinds of conditions. There are meds to abate the side effects of other meds. There are strict rules on what to take or not take when on some meds. There are also difficulties experienced in getting off certain meds, after the brain gets addicted to them.

The science of medications is almost representative of the entire discipline, and others. Science and technology are so potent to the world that even at their limits or failures, trust in them hardly wavers.

The world is heavily reliant on science but science is focused on what it is focused on, while it is clear that science, at its best, cannot solve every problem there is.

There are focus areas of science but there are several other areas where science ignores because it would expose it.

Lying and deceit go together. Almost anyone can fall into deceit. It is always advised to tell to truth from a young age, but the world runs on all kinds of lies and deceits that surviving may require substituting truths.

There are those who would tell truth to the extent that it can be verified but the rest would be lies. There are also those who would do everything to deceive to get what they want.

There are those who are ethical in deceit, and there are those who are ruthless in deceit. There are liars who couldn’t care less about consequences and there are measured liars.

The world is a dangerous place, in part, because of liars and deceitful people. The world is also a dangerous place because of bitterness, wickedness, evil, greed, pride, unknown intentions, etc. but no medications on cures for these.

What seems to be applicable in some cases is therapy. But therapy sometimes, is often overrated. There are those who have been to it all, but no permanent way out. There are also certain therapists under pressure to help some patients they went outside the book.

Therapy seems great but just like reliance on meds for certain conditions with no solution, more prescription, more dependency and impossible to stop, therapy itself is addictive.

The brain, neuroplastic often has other plans for stuff – sometimes, making detachment difficult. But since meds cannot cure everything and sometimes have adverse effects and are addictive, why does it seem like the world would not want to adopt other sure ways to solve some other prominent conditions?

Genuine Christianity would have eased the work of science, technology and addiction solution, but no, genuine Christianity seems to be what some think the problem is.

Christianity is a lot of faith in God, which can be hope for the best rather than sadness, despair or emptiness. Faith in God can also be rejoicing, as the Scriptures often said, rejoice.

Genuine Christianity also consists of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. These, assuming adapted by all, would have been useful against the vicious hate in life and on the internet.

But science and technology are not so focused on solving: evil desire, unclean things, wrong use of the senses, worship of images, use of strange powers, hates, fighting, desire for what another has, angry feelings, attempts to get the better of others, divisions, false teachings, envy, uncontrolled drinking and feasting, and such things.

But these are important to dispose in order to have a better world. But no science is active on most.

Many attack prayer of genuine Christians, but prayer is communication with God, somewhat like a conqueror’s cure.

The Holy Spirit in genuine Christians gives them word, many times with power. The Holy Spirit can say don’t speak or be patient in a bustling moment, only to realize it was a great counsel. The Holy Spirit can counsel, give peace with the counsel and the grace to obey.

Also, prayer is important, it can be as easy as Lord be merciful unto me, or Save me O Lord, Save me, or Lord Help me, or Lord please make me happy, or Lord forgive my sins and give me grace to be holy. The Lord can hear from heaven and answer.

Genuine Christianity is a lot of mercy. Those in it are OK, by the grace of God, but the nature of sin tries to pull everyone, so it is always important to watch and pray.

[Ephesians 2:8-9, For by Grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.]

[1 Corinthians 15:10, But by the grace of God I am what I am: and His grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.]

The Holy Spirit knows every genuine Christian and attends to them specifically. Yes, the word of God is one, but as experiences differ, He counsels and helps – in line with the word of God, in different ways for everyone. The Holy Spirit is different from meds – serving everyone regardless of environment, situation, background, movement, influence, etc.

The brain lives off addiction, to the extent that many people do things without being themselves, because they are already wired to act that way, or think that way, after a period of time.

But the best advice most times is abstinence; flee which the Scriptures said. No matter the condition or situation, it is better to trust the Lord and believe on Him, and start small at it.

Repentance is the solution for pathological lying, as well as for desperation. Resting on Christ is a destination that won’t compete with the world for happiness, etc.

[Matthew 11:21, Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.]

[1 Corinthians 3:18, Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.]

[Genesis 24:12, And he said, O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray Thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham.]

Modupe Gbadeyanka is a fast-rising journalist with Business Post Nigeria. Her passion for journalism is amazing. She is willing to learn more with a view to becoming one of the best pen-pushers in Nigeria. Her role models are the duo of CNN's Richard Quest and Christiane Amanpour.

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Can Urban Farming Contribute Meaningfully to Nigeria’s Food Security?

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Urban Farming

By Diana Tenebe

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a complex web of food security challenges. Soaring food inflation, exacerbated by climate extremes, persistent insecurity in food-producing regions, and an inadequate supply of nutritious foods, has pushed millions into acute hunger. Despite vast agricultural resources, the country ranks low on the Global Food Security Index, underscoring a critical need for innovative solutions. Amidst this backdrop, urban farming, often dismissed as a niche activity, is gaining traction as a strategy to enhance food security, create income opportunities, and promote sustainable practices in urban areas.

Urban farming, encompassing a range of practices from rooftop gardens and vertical farms to community plots and aquaculture, offers the potential to localise food production, reduce reliance on distant supply chains, and enhance access to fresh, nutritious produce. As Nigerian cities continue to urbanise, converting agricultural land to other uses, the importance of maximizing food production within urban limits becomes crucial.

One of the most immediate and impactful contributions of urban farming is its ability to enhance food availability and access. By cultivating crops within city limits, fresh produce can reach consumers more quickly, drastically reducing post-harvest losses and transportation costs. This localised production directly addresses issues of food scarcity, especially for vulnerable urban populations who often struggle with the high cost and limited availability of fresh food. Successful initiatives in Lagos for instance have demonstrated how urban farms can become reliable sources of fruits, vegetables, and even protein through urban livestock and aquaculture for surrounding communities.

Beyond mere availability, urban farming plays a crucial role in improving nutritional outcomes and dietary diversity. Access to fresh, diverse produce encourages healthier eating habits, helping to combat prevalent issues like protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. When families cultivate their own food, they gain greater control over its quality and freshness, often opting for more nutritious varieties. This direct link between cultivation and consumption can lead to a measurable increase in dietary diversity within urban households.

Urban farming is not just about subsistence; it holds substantial economic promise and fosters job creation. It directly generates employment opportunities in various stages, including planting, harvesting, processing, and distribution. Small-scale urban farmers can sell their surplus produce at local markets, generating income and fostering entrepreneurship. This can be particularly impactful for Nigeria’s large youth population, offering a viable path to employment and self-reliance in a landscape of high unemployment. Initiatives that provide training and access to markets, like “FarmInTheCity” in Lagos, exemplify how urban farming can blossom into full-scale enterprises.

Urban farming contributes significantly to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Innovative urban farming techniques, such as hydroponics and vertical farming, are inherently resource-efficient, using less land and water compared to traditional agriculture. They also reduce “food miles,” significantly lowering carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Additionally, urban green spaces created by farming initiatives can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance urban biodiversity. This makes urban farming a crucial component of climate adaptation strategies, helping cities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts that affect traditional agriculture.

Finally, community gardens and collaborative urban farming projects serve as powerful tools for fostering community cohesion and social impact. They provide shared spaces where residents can connect, build knowledge, and foster a sense of community pride and ownership. These initiatives can also serve as educational platforms, promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about local food systems. This collaborative spirit can be particularly beneficial in diverse urban settings, breaking down social barriers and strengthening community bonds.

For Urban farming to work in Nigeria, policy support and integration are crucial. Governments at all levels need to recognize urban farming as a legitimate and vital part of the food system. This involves developing supportive policies, streamlining land-use regulations, and integrating urban agriculture into city planning. Second, capacity building and education are essential. Investing in education and training programs is vital. Access to finance and technology is a significant factor for urban farmers. Innovative financing models, perhaps incorporating “pay-as-you-grow” schemes for technology adoption, are needed. Also, leveraging technology like mobile apps for market access can significantly boost productivity. Lastly, adequate infrastructure, including reliable energy sources and efficient storage facilities, is crucial to minimize post-harvest losses and ensure the economic viability of urban farms.

Urban farming in Nigeria is more than just a passing trend; it can represent a tangible and impactful pathway towards enhanced food security. By embracing innovative approaches, fostering supportive policies, and empowering urban communities with the necessary resources and knowledge, Nigeria can unlock the immense potential of its cities to feed their populations, create economic opportunities, and build a more resilient and sustainable future. The revolution of urban farming, if nurtured effectively, can indeed contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s quest for food security.

Diana Tenebe is the Chief Operating Officer of Foodstuff Store

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Beyond the Final Whistle: Peter Rufai and the Cost of Being a Legend

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Beyond the Final Whistle: Peter Rufai

By Timi Olubiyi, PhD

The retirement from professional football, frequently glorified with illusions of legendary status and awards, reveals a contrasting reality upon closer examination, particularly in Nigeria.

Amidst the exciting goals and passionate stadium cheers exists a worrisome reality: numerous Nigerian footballers conclude their careers insufficiently prepared, financially insecure, physically impaired, and mentally overlooked.

Many retired Nigerian footballers, despite having earned significant sums of money during their careers, find themselves struggling financially soon after retirement. This is largely due to a lack of proper financial planning, poor investments, and the mismanagement of their earnings.

This post-retirement crisis of depression has affected even some of the nation’s most renowned figures, including Peter Rufai, the former Super Eagles custodian who once captivated spectators with his talent and tenacity.

Despite representing Nigeria internationally, and at the World Cup, notably and more recently Peter Rufai, has encountered the harsh reality of neglect following his retirement, and this has been the prevailing trend amongst football retirees.

Peter Rufai’s narrative resonates with the experiences of many former footballers who once bore the aspirations of a nation but now endure hardship, grappling with health complications and minimal assistance. The typical Nigerian player, throughout his career, frequently encounters a combination of inadequate money management, insufficient education, lack of appropriate legal guidance, and absence of long-term strategic planning.

Many of the players enter the illusion that they will leverage their talents, huge savings appear to be significant amounts, but fail to secure the stability of their retirement, despite all. In my opinion, these retirement failures are due to a lack of financial education and investment literacy, which leads to eventual poor retirement.

Nigerian footballers, in contrast to their colleagues in more developed footballing nations who enjoy strong player unions, pension schemes, and financial consulting services, frequently find themselves unsupported. Even injuries suffered over their career years often resurface later in life, accompanied by costly therapies that become unaffordable.  The abrupt shift from fame and significance to anonymity and irrelevance imposes a psychological burden that few individuals are equipped to confront.

Numerous accounts also exist of former celebrities in the Nollywood and music industry. After retirement, they reside in deteriorated circumstances, soliciting public aid, or passing away discreetly without access to fundamental healthcare. This condition is rooted in a structural issue, originating from a football administration that favours immediate success over the long-term well-being of its sportsmen.

Moreover, the absence of organised retirement planning or transitional programs for footballers by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Ministry of Sports signifies a neglect of the persons who have elevated Nigerian football’s prominence.

In simple terms, many retired Nigerian footballers do not benefit or have pension schemes or long-term financial plans after their playing careers end.

In contrast, football associations in countries like England or Spain provide players with comprehensive retirement programs and pension plans to ensure they remain financially stable even after they retire.

The harsh reality of retirement for Nigerian footballers is a growing concern that demands immediate attention. Therefore, a multifaceted strategy is urgently required to halt this slide.

Initially, financial education should be integrated into player development programs at the grassroots level, instructing young players on the significance of budgeting, investing, and saving.More so, mental health programs and education must be introduced to help retired footballers cope with the psychological challenges of retirement.

Secondly, the NFF should formalise retirement savings programs, pension schemes, and compulsory health insurance for all players representing clubs and the national team.  Furthermore, a welfare department inside the NFF must be formed to monitor and assist retiring athletes, guaranteeing they are not left to manage alone.  The government should enact legislation mandating retirement benefits and post-career healthcare access for national legislators, acknowledging their contribution to the country as a national duty.

Public-private partnerships may be utilised to establish a Footballers’ Retirement Fund, financed through endorsements, league earnings, and sponsorships.  Former athletes may transition into coaching, mentoring, or ambassadorial positions, so as to ensure both financial compensation and continued significance.

Corporate entities and NGOs should participate by establishing post-career training programs in entrepreneurship, coaching, and sports management.

Peter Rufai, who previously endeavoured to promote fitness and youth development during his lifetime, could have received enhanced support to establish a legacy of mentorship programmes if the appropriate structures had been implemented.

In conclusion, without implementing systemic reforms, Nigerian football will continue to celebrate stars on the pitch but neglect them after they retire. Therefore, the government, the NFF, football clubs, and other sports federations must collaborate to establish a sustainable support system for sportspeople, ensuring they are financially secure, emotionally supported, and equipped with the skills needed to succeed after their sporting careers. Without these reforms, many Nigerian sports icons will persist in facing a bleak reality as they transition from playing to retirement.

The call for reform is not just about securing the future of Nigerian athletes; it is about recognising their contributions and making sure that their lives after sport are as dignified and fulfilling as their careers. Rest in peace, Peter Rufai, the legend!

How may you obtain advice or further information on the article? 

Dr Timi Olubiyi is an Entrepreneurship and Business Management expert with a PhD in Business Administration from Babcock University, Nigeria. A prolific investment coach, columnist, author, adviser, seasoned scholar, Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), Member of the Institute of Directors, and Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) registered capital market operator. He can be reached on the Twitter handle @drtimiolubiyi and via email: [email protected], for any questions, reactions, and comments.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author,Dr Timi Olubiyi and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of others.

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Nurturing Our Planet For Greener Africa For All

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Greener Africa For All

Africa, despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions,  disproportionately suffers from the climate crisis. At MultiChoice Africa, powering  African dreams means investing in a greener, more sustainable future for the  continent.

Our commitment to enriching lives extends beyond entertainment to a profound  dedication to our vibrant African home. As Africa faces heightened vulnerability to climate  change, urgent action is essential.

The MultiChoice Group’s recently released Environment, Social and Governance (ESG)  performance report for the financial year ending March 2025 (FY25), highlights our devotion to protecting the planet.

The report is anchored in four core pillars, aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable  Development Goals (SDG): conserving natural resources, improving environmental  performance, minimising our environmental footprint, and building impactful  partnerships.

We believe a sustainable future for Africa is a shared responsibility. Here are five key  highlights from our 2025 ESG report:

1. Climate change  

Climate change is a significant challenge, especially for Africa, impacting everything from  farming to water. MultiChoice Africa is committed to reducing our environmental impact.  Our goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, meaning our operations will not add  more carbon to the atmosphere than we remove.

This commitment results in a healthier planet with cleaner air, more stable weather  patterns, and a more secure future for our communities. We continuously measure our  carbon emissions, and in FY25, we made significant strides in reducing emissions from our  direct operations.

2. Energy efficiency  

Optimising energy consumption is a key pillar of our environmental strategy. In FY25, we  achieved a notable reduction in energy consumption by optimising electricity use,

enhancing heating, cooling and ventilation systems, and improving data centre efficiency.

Across our facilities, we’ve deployed technologies like motion-sensor lighting, LED  systems, and energy-efficient inverters. In Nigeria, we’re replacing outdated chillers with  energy-efficient models. These smart solutions reduce our environmental impact and  contribute to operational efficiency.

3. Water security  

Water security is critical in Africa, and MultiChoice Africa is dedicated to responsible water  management across all our operational facilities. We’ve implemented technologies like  dual flush cisterns and drip irrigation systems, achieving up to a 40% reduction in water  usage in some facilities.

In Nigeria, we’re extending drip-piping sprinkler systems and repurposing water from  sewage treatment plants for irrigation. These efforts ensure responsible water use,  benefiting communities and ecosystems.

4. Waste management  

MultiChoice Africa is committed to responsible waste management, focusing on recycling,  proper disposal, and circularity principles. In FY25, we disposed of nearly 465,000  kilograms of general trash, with significant efforts to divert waste from landfills.

We also ensure e-waste is handled with utmost environmental care, with over 6400 kilograms collected and safely recycled. Our Irdeto offices have phased out single-use  plastics and recycle coffee waste, demonstrating our dedication to innovative waste  reduction.

5. Environmental partnerships 

Our environmental journey is strengthened by strategic partnerships. As an official African  Broadcast partner for The Earthshot Prize, we amplify messages around climate change  and inspire sustainable solutions.

Our collaboration with Fruitful Office has led to 7,048 trees planted since 2013, combating  deforestation and offsetting CO₂ emissions. Through Irdeto Crosscharge, we’re  contributing to the growing EV market, promoting secure and sustainable charging  solutions.

MultiChoice Africa is taking a leading role in promoting environmental sustainability  across the continent. The company is actively working to reduce its carbon emissions,  conserve vital natural resources, and build impactful partnerships. These efforts are all part  of a broader commitment to creating a healthier, more vibrant Africa for future  generations—reflecting a deep sense of responsibility toward the planet and its people.

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