Feature/OPED
In Nigeria, Not Much Makes Sense

By Prince Charles Dickson PhD
A lady in Chicago was reported to have used hammers to kill flies. When asked why, she replied that she wanted to make sure the sucker was dead! –Ezeana Achusim
President Muhammadu Buhari has called on the relevant bodies to ensure justice is served in the murder of Hanifa Abubakar, the five-year-old schoolgirl killed in Kano State.
He specifically ordered the police and the Ministry of Justice to uphold the integrity of the detective work that busted the case by preparing well and presenting a good case that will earn the respect of the court.
The President gave the directive on Friday in a statement by his media aide, Garba Shehu, in reaction to the death of little Hanifa who was initially abducted in December last year.
He expressed the nation’s condolences to the family of the schoolgirl whose body was discovered in a shallow grave in Kano after almost two months of fruitless search.
President Buhari, however, commended the police and the secret service for unravelling the mystery behind the disappearance of Hanifa, and particularly for the arrest of her teacher and his accomplices suspected of the child’s kidnap and murder.
According to him, the family and the whole nation which followed up on Hanifa’s travail every day since her disappearance was hoping for the girl to have returned home alive and well.
The President stated that the thorough and painstaking detective operation by the law enforcement bodies, leading to the discovery of her remains and the arrest of the suspects who have already made confessions, was commendable.
He described it as an achievement that should instil more public confidence in the authorities, adding, “when breakthroughs like this happen, people will talk differently of law enforcement.”
President Buhari prayed for the repose of the soul of the little schoolgirl and urged her parents to bear the sad loss with courage and fortitude in God.
Until her death, Hanifa was a pupil of a private school – Noble Kids Academy in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
The Public Relations Officer in the state, Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed her death to journalists on Friday, saying her teacher, one Abdulmalik Tanko, was indicted in the murder.
Abdulmalik, Kiyawa stated, confessed that he kidnapped Hanifa and took her to his house where he contacted her relatives and demanded a ransom of N6 million.
He later conspired with one Hashim Isyaku to kill the girl on December 18, 2021, having realised that the victim had recognised him.
Hanifa was buried in a shallow grave within the school premises located at Kwanar ‘Yan Gana in Tudun Murtala Quarters.
With the above, I am almost done with this admonition. I recall that in February 2020, I had written about a nation that forgets quickly.
…So, ‘Scientists are wrong’, the Uruguayan writer Eduardo Galeano said with a warm smile on his face. ‘Human beings are not made of atoms; they are made of stories. It is why we want to sing and draw, tell each other about our lives and our hopes, talk about the wonders in our lives and the wonders that we dream about. These dreams – this art – are what makes us get up each day, smile, and go forward into the world. It is so common for human beings, even in the most wretched situation, to find a way to lift the spirit through our own forms of art. In Nigeria we seek refuge in God, pray about everything, blame everyone but ourselves soon we forget. And our art is to forget, painfully we forget and very quickly too.
Stories of death, brutal death, corruption, maladministration, poor leadership and in cases total lack of governance, and we carry on; we may never know the number of people that die every day until death takes someone you know.
Last week, our young friend, John Elama, was shot dead in circumstances that will never be unravelled. My painter, Mohammed’s father and sister, were kidnapped in Kaduna and after ransom was paid, they released his father and kept on to his sister, the abductors said they did keep her as a booty.
After long gruesome bargaining, we got her out, but not after buying a motorcycle for the kidnappers. They even gave specifications of the type!
We have a short fuse memory, preferring to largely forget very quickly from a point of learning slowly, we either never remember or we choose to totally forget.
Two years ago, 30 were killed in two Katsina villages, 13 killed in Plateau communities, how about that attack for which the President visited Borno State? And also the University of Maiduguri girl that was burnt or the lad from Plateau state that was murdered?
We will forget that 11 members of the same family were locked up and burnt in their house in Kaduna by armed bandits who invaded their Bakali village in Fatika district of Giwa local government area.
Remember Hanatu, the pregnant mother of two, and a pharmacist that was killed by bandits in Zaria. It was August last year and by October, operatives of the Force Investigation Bureau-Intelligence Response Team (FIB-IRT) had arrested two suspected members of the gang responsible. It’s months gone but I dare say nothing will happen.
Hanifa’s case is like the “Mocking bird, you are accused of insulting the king.” It asked when would it have time to insult the king, seeing that it must sing two hundred songs in the morning, two hundred in the afternoon, and two hundred at night, mixing it all up with some frolicsome notes?
Why should the President be involved in a matter that the law should ordinarily take its course, why all the drama for a seemingly straightforward case? Truth is that nothing is straightforward in Nigeria; the law, our politics, the people, our education, our health, the governance systems and structures.
In another incident in Kaduna, an 80-year-old girl named Asma’u was also killed in Zaria after a N3 million ransom was paid. The father of the deceased, Alhaji Shuaibu Wa’alamu said: “My daughter was abducted on the 9th of December 2021 and when she failed to return home, I lodged a formal complaint with the Police.
“I know those who abducted her and killed her. They are around us. I have strong evidence. I have told the police. And they are on it. In fact, the suspects have been arrested,” he said.
Kaduna Police Command Spokesman, ASP Muhammed Jalige, confirmed the incident.
He, however, said investigations were ongoing on the incident and that he needed to get more information from Zaria command in order to be able to give full details.
The fact is that many people, including the killers, are sick, we have psychopaths, there are not just bandits, killers, kidnappers or terrorists; we do not have healers, or a solution to bring about healing as not much makes sense.
While one weeps, one can still see. However, no matter how accommodating one is, one should never take leave of one’s good judgement. I am personally accommodating of the present crop of leaders, but I do not see where they are bringing cure from, they still cannot seem to figure out how to make sense of the Nigerian project, in few months albeit weeks, we would have moved on, how long would we go on like this—Only time will tell.
Feature/OPED
Airtel AI Spam Alert Tackles an Urgent Telecom Problem

By Faedat Temideni
In Nigeria today, unwanted messages have evolved from a mere annoyance into a serious security risk. From deceptive investment opportunities to phony bank notifications, spam communications have transformed into complex frauds that target unsuspecting victims.
For numerous Nigerians, starting the day with several spam messages has turned into a regular occurrence. Telemarketing offers, questionable lottery prizes, and phishing schemes inundate mobile inboxes, frequently inundating users with unsolicited messages. Although some communications are simply annoying, others are designed to mislead and take advantage.
In recent years, there has been a rise in fraudulent SMS messages, where scammers mimic banks, government bodies, and reputable companies to obtain sensitive information from people. A report by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) indicates that financial fraud via mobile channels has resulted in substantial monetary losses, causing unsuspecting victims to lose millions of naira.
Consider the scenario of Adebola, a civil servant in Lagos, who got an SMS purporting to be from her bank, urging her to click a link and refresh her account information. Just moments after complying, she noticed that her account had been breached, resulting in thousands of naira being withdrawn before she could respond. Tales such as Adebola’s emphasize the necessity for a strong approach to tackle SMS fraud and unwanted spam messages.
Airtel’s Spam Alert Service: A Historic Innovation
Acknowledging the critical necessity to tackle this problem, Airtel Nigeria, in March 2025, launched its Spam Alert Service, a creative system intended to screen spam messages before they reachusers. The service utilizes Artificial Intelligence built by Airtel to examine incoming SMS, detect suspiciouspatterns, and alert users accordingly.
Airtel’s Spam Alert Service Works in Three Key Ways
Quick Identification: The system automatically identifies suspected spam messages.
User Alerts: When a suspected fraudulent message is detected, users receive an alert notifying them of the potential spam.
User Reporting Feature: Customers can report spam messages by forwarding them to a dedicated short code, helping Airtel enhance its spam alert mechanisms.
With the launch of the Spam Alert Service, Airtel is not only protecting its customers but also strengthening trust in mobile communication. By helping to curb SMS fraud, Airtel ensures that users can engage with their mobile devices with a much-reduced risk of falling victim to SMS scams.
According toAirtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Dinesh Balsingh,the AI Spam Alert Service demonstrates the priority the company places on user security. “We understand that spam messages are more than just an annoyance, they pose real threats to individuals and businesses. So, our Spam Alert Service is part of a broader effort to ensure a safer and more secure digital experience for our customers,”MrBalsingh said.
An Urgent Call to Action
As Airtel takes the lead in the fight against spam and SMS fraud, mobile users must remain vigilant. Customers are encouraged to report suspicious messages and avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. Additionally, businesses must adopt best practices in digital communication to ensure their messaging systems are not exploited by fraudsters.
With initiatives like the Spam Alert Service, Airtel is setting a new standard for mobile security in Nigeria. In a world where digital threats continue to evolve, proactive measures like this ensure that users can communicate safely, free from the fear of falling victim to SMS scams.
The battle against spam and fraud is far from over, but with Airtel’s Spam Alert Service, Nigerian mobile users now have a powerful ally in safeguarding their communication channels.
Feature/OPED
Can Urban Farming Contribute Meaningfully to Nigeria’s Food Security?

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

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.
-
Feature/OPED5 years ago
Davos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism9 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years ago
Estranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking7 years ago
Sort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy2 years ago
Subsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking2 years ago
First Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports2 years ago
Highest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn
-
Technology5 years ago
How To Link Your MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile Lines to NIN