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RCCG, Adeboye, Daddy Freeze & Problem with Christianity in Nigeria

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By Nneka Okumazie

Well, no, the problem with the success of Christianity in Nigeria. Churches everywhere are not supposed to be, in a country that isn’t doing so great – in summary of the anxiety of haters of Christianity in Nigeria.

Critical thinking and questioning everything is often the excuse for this hate, but they’re often confused, delusional and unable to identify where to look.

Nigeria has problems that are not true Churches everywhere. The smartest Nigerians are not throwing themselves to solve the problems of Nigeria in diverse ways. Rather – for some – their talent and resourcefulness are diverted to activism, so whatever it is, to be activist at, goes.

How many known or unknown individuals or groups are working on different kinds of electricity solutions in Nigeria? And NO, electricity solution in Nigeria is not just renewable energy, or increase power generation, or several other vague ideas shared without any tests, or any real possibility of surviving the Nigerian factor sinkholes.

How many people or groups are working on proper solutions to poverty in Nigeria, solutions against hawking, solutions against living conditions of the poor, solutions against the poor been unable to afford the basics, solutions against hunger, solutions against starvation, solutions against transport discomfort, etc.

There is no fire in Nigeria. That is fire for solutions, burning from all angles presenting paths to progress. Yes, some would be nonstarters, but the country is likely to progress from serious efforts, far away from government offices.

The academe has a role, but some have argued that Nigeria has a poor education system, while others have argued that education is education and more is needed to diminish illiteracy. But there’s private education that’s supposed to be answer to the former, and there are also a ton of foreign-trained Nigerians.

What to ask is: has Nigeria not enough smart people to work on solutions – too great to fail, by whatever kills good development stuff in Nigeria? Or is it that no one is inspiring anyone else to be bold and daring, to work on useful solutions in all the areas of deficiencies?

Activism is cheaper, easier and lazier, so being thoughtful at it can be seen as doing something, while real work or courageous move is abandoned. Everyone says government is corrupt, OK, but there are choice areas of government corruption that may be tauter for solutions to withstand, but there are hundreds of other areas where there is little to no incentive for corruption, but nothing is done there – by those who can.

Instead, complain on everything, blame government, say they are useless, and then say the ‘useless’ should step up. By this model, power outage is what it is, poverty is up, environment is worst, traffic and road safety – declining, unemployment, desperation, etc. all the deteriorating, because the governments they called useless would do nothing.

Inspired by government activists, some like daddy freeze took to blaming true Churches – with claims that lack merit. Wherever daddy freeze had his education, he is probably a product of the poor education that many complain about. He went to school, learned nothing on how to be valuable to society, or to effectively deploy critical thinking, so in trying to be relevant and have a life of [negative] purpose, he blames true Churches for everything.

His education may be like some who didn’t like mathematics in ‘school’ because some Universities in Nigeria may have taught them based on abstractions, so they studied to scale, and quit. Meanwhile mathematics is currently at the cutting edge of science with neural networks, molecular modeling, etc.

Assuming some students were properly taught mathematics in Nigeria, there may have been so many graduates working on useful mathematical methods and models to poverty solutions in Nigeria, electricity solutions, unemployment solutions, hunger solutions, traffic solutions, road safety improvements, waste solutions, learning solutions, etc.

So the loss is a loss of everything, though there are several Nigerians great at really rare skills including those, but it seems working on real development solutions is off-limits for their talents.

True Churches are not the problem of Nigeria. All the blames on true Churches are mostly on stuff that isn’t their vision or mission. Attendance, giving and commitments are voluntary. There are so many upsides to being a true Christian than everyone often acknowledges. One example is the mind, or having a sound mind.

The mind almost does not want to be controlled, it wants to be distracted, influenced, satisfied, deceived and misled. There are people who quickly get to the worst place possible of worries or, say sadness. There are so many, aside those obviously disturbed, that are not in control of their minds because of several factors – and they can’t focus, pay attention, or get anything done right.

If Christians are expected to cast their cares upon Christ, this may mean for them that they can get worried, yes, but it stays at a level and the rest of the heavy-laden goes to Christ, so they don’t often get to the sunken place of the mind.

Christianity is personal, and can be a social activity. Hope and Faith in Christianity is also a choice, it does not mean brainwashing. There is lots of freedom to live and achieve while living as a true Christian, there are boundaries, yes, but career, professional and collective success is possible – legitimately in other activities.

Boundaries in Christianity have saved many for colossal troubles that if they were loose, or behaviorally boundless, could have led to disgrace, or something close.

Atheists, agnostics, etc. want proof and all the answers, before they can believe. They also want the all-Powerful GOD to show He’s really powerful by influencing stuff – measurably. But they believe neuroscience albeit experts say there are much more complexities yet to be understood.

Some will say at least they understand some, and it works. OK, sorry, but GOD’s Power is known, potent and the Almighty GOD is not science.

Roughly similar to bistable [visual] perception, it is possible to see two contrasting views of the same path, it is possible to be a total believer in the Lord, yet know that there are so many unknowns and unanswered questions.

Algorithmic explanability or interpretability [how it works] is still also fuzzy in machine learning, but the field forges ahead. Science cannot be compared to Christ, but the world uses the standards of science and materiality to judge the Lord. GOD is a Spirit.

Haters of Church in Nigeria often offer a reading of Christians, berating them, while elevating their own abilities. But their readings are worthless and at best wrong. There needs to be a reading of those reading others, to understand why they are doing it.

Nigeria is bustling with activities, talks, projects, conferences, private education, executive education, product development, product management, etc. but mostly lacking useful development.

Also, there aren’t many known useful psychology studies in Nigeria, on behaviors, actions, reactions, trends, etc. to be able to understand why a country needs to develop but everyone seems to abandon it.

Haters will help others question their choices and decisions, but will stick to their own and defend their own. If Christianity works for someone why is that some problem? Maybe lies against Christianity and all the unfounded criticisms offer a reading of the instigators.

These detractors are more of a problem to Nigeria than an individual somewhere going to Church, full of hope – in the light of Christ.

For genuine Christians, it is sometimes good to remember Micah 7:7-8, “Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.

Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD [shall be] a light unto me.”

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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Unlocking Full Human Potential: Growth, Diversity, and Purpose

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multichoice 2024 Step up

In Nigeria’s diverse workforce, the conversation around diversity and inclusion (DEI) extends beyond gender to address tribal diversity, socioeconomic representation, and other cultural nuances. Policies that promote inclusivity are crucial for fostering collaboration in Nigeria’s multicultural corporate environment.

“An organisation is only as good as its people. Ensuring those people perform to their best is the role of human capital. Today, the field has a range of tools to ensure real-time engagement and agile interventions for optimal job satisfaction and performance”, – Catia Teixeira, MultiChoice Africa Holdings Group Executive Head of Human Capital.

In both our professional and personal lives, we all strive for growth and development. These opportunities are deeply rewarding, supporting the kind of self-actualisation that makes life most fulfilling. In the Nigerian workplace, where career growth often intertwines with societal expectations and the drive for self-improvement, human capital plays an even more significant role. Opportunities to grow are not just fulfilling but are deeply rooted in our collective ambition for a better future.

Employee engagement is a reflection of how actualised individuals feel in their roles. Engaged employees are more likely to perform at their peak and contribute positively to the workplace. In Nigeria, where the “hustle culture” is celebrated, organizations must create environments that not only nurture growth but also recognize and reward the efforts of their people.

When employees feel enriched and their work aligns with their aspirations, the results are transformative. Growth and development are not just personal milestones—they are the foundation of a thriving organization and, by extension, a more productive society.

Identifying Growth Opportunities

In every workplace, some employees stand out from the first day, while others take time to grow into their potential. Talent management processes must cater to both. For instance, a twice-yearly organizational talent review can help Nigerian companies identify where employees excel and where they need support.

Interactions within the workplace also play a crucial role. In Nigeria’s highly networked professional landscape, creating opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration can open new doors for employees. Systematic development plans, supported by tailored training, ensure that these opportunities translate into tangible growth.

Take the MultiChoice Academy, for example, which offers over 4,000 online courses spanning finance, HR, marketing, and other fields. This mirrors the Nigerian appetite for continuous learning, especially as industries rapidly embrace digital transformation. While face-to-face training remains valuable, customized e-learning platforms are pivotal in bridging knowledge gaps and preparing employees for the future of work.

For any training program, balance is key. Organizations must align employee development with business goals while ensuring individuals feel empowered to pursue their aspirations. In Nigeria, induction programs that connect new hires with company visions and purpose are critical to building this alignment.

One of the most rewarding aspects of human capital management is witnessing success stories unfold. In a country like Nigeria, where talent is abundant, but opportunities may be unevenly distributed, developing talent internally can make a significant impact. Long-term employees bring invaluable institutional knowledge, and nurturing their growth ensures they continue to drive organizational success.

At MultiChoice, we are deeply committed to equipping our workforce with the skills and confidence needed to excel. Whether it’s training young leaders, empowering women in leadership, or developing heads of departments, every investment in our people enhances their value – as individuals and as indispensable assets to the company.

What Diversity Means

At MultiChoice, gender equity remains a key focus. Women make up 46% of our workforce, and 46% of leadership roles are held by women—a significant achievement in a society where women often juggle professional aspirations with traditional family roles. Our promotions policy is designed to push these numbers to 50%, ensuring equity across all levels of the organization.

When entering new markets, MultiChoice intentionally applies its culture of inclusion, empowering women to excel in leadership positions. This commitment extends to addressing barriers unique to Nigeria, such as access to resources and mentorship for women in underrepresented fields.

Data Drives Change

To drive meaningful change, data is indispensable. Nigerian companies often face challenges like high employee turnover and workplace inefficiencies. By leveraging data, organizations can address these issues strategically.

MultiChoice uses platforms like Office Vibe to generate insights into employee engagement, satisfaction, and work-life balance. Weekly surveys and random polls provide actionable feedback, enabling quick interventions and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

In Nigeria, where trust in leadership significantly influences workplace morale, data can also help bridge gaps between management and employees. Regular focus groups, coupled with robust analytics, ensure employees feel heard and supported. When organizations align employee needs with business goals, the result is a workforce driven by purpose and achievement.

The Collective Goal

In Nigeria, where community and collective growth are deeply valued, human capital strategies should emphasize the power of shared purpose. By investing in people, organizations contribute to a larger vision of national development.

At MultiChoice, every success story is a testament to this philosophy. From training young leaders to empowering women in leadership, the organization demonstrates that growth is a journey best undertaken together. For Nigeria, this represents a powerful blueprint for building a future where individuals and organizations thrive in harmony.

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Between Governor Bala and the Presidency

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Bala Mohammed Tinubu

Abba Dukawa

Although I’ve never met Governor Bala Muhammad in person, only seeing him on television, his recent outburst against the federal government’s economic policies resonates deeply with poor citizens’ view.

His concerns stem from empathy for the citizens’ going through unbearable hardships, which have worsened due to the economic situation where millions of citizens struggling with high cost of living, poverty and hardship, reflecting the reality on the ground where citizens face significant economic challenges.

His view resonated with the people in respect of political affiliations have praised Governor Bala for speaking truth to power, acknowledging that the economic policies aren’t working. But his outburst of the economic policies has sparked a heated response from presidency.

Even though President Bola Tinubu claims to have no regrets about his economic policies, aiming to strengthen the country’s economy, policies must be empathetic.

The Tax Reform Bills, in particular, have generated widespread concern, with experts warning of negative implications and advising the government to postpone the bill and engage in further consultations.

The National Economic Council, comprising 36 state governors and led by the Vice President, had expressed reservations about the bill, emphasizing the need for adequate consultation with stakeholders.

However, the Presidency swiftly rejected the NEC’s advice, stressing that the bill is crucial for supporting President Tinubu’s administration in bolstering the country’s fiscal institutions.

Governor Bala Muhammad’s expressed his concerns when hosting Sheikh Yahaya Jangir, a frontline campaigner for the Muslim-Muslim presidency, at the Bauchi Government House.

The governor urged President Tinubu to listen to Nigerians and correct his errors, stating that it’s his duty as a leader to tell the truth.

As Governor Mohammed noted, “I am sure you have heard that we are quarrelling with the president. Yes, it is true we are quarrelling because our people are suffering, and the president has refused to listen to us.”

His comments should not be seen as a critique of the president’s policies, not a personal attack. It’s essential for President Tinubu’s administration to understand the growing concern among Nigerians about the country’s economic direction and the need for effective strategies to address the current economic hardship.

The Presidency, through his Special Adviser, Sunday Dare, responded by urging Governor Mohammed to prioritize the welfare of Bauchi citizens instead of engaging in political posturing. Dare emphasized that the President’s administration is focused on national development and collaboration with state leaders.

It’s worth noting that Governor Mohammed has implemented various poverty alleviation programs, including the Kaura Economic Empowerment Programme (KEEP), to reduce the state’s high poverty rate. He has also prioritized education, with a focus on reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.

Additionally, Governor Mohammed has taken steps to improve the state’s healthcare system,  His administration’s efforts to address these challenges echo the experiences of poor citizens in Bauchi State and across Nigeria.

Overall, Governor Mohammed’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues faced by his state and its citizens resonates deeply with the experiences of poor Nigerians..

Dukawa write it from Abuja can be reached at [email protected]

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Tinubu’s Titanic Wahala

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Letter to President Tinubu

By Tony  Ogunlowo

‘Titanic’ can mean something that is very big, gigantic or enormous and it was also the name of a ship that sank on its maiden voyage.

When the Titanic sank in 1912 it sank due to a number of avoidable factors: a ship deemed unsinkable that wasn’t fitted with watertight compartments, a ‘unprofessional’ seasoned captain who was apparently bullied into going at full speed through known ice-berg strewn waters, lack of common binoculars for the deck watch and the unavailability of enough life boats for all the passengers.

This all put together, as they say, was a recipe for disaster. Red flags were ignored.

Translating this to President Tinubu’s modern-day Nigeria, the avoidable factors that can sink the country are way too obvious.

Nigerians have long enjoyed the benefits of fuel subsidy. Costly as it is to maintain it’s enabled the economy to keep running by keeping the cost of things low. It’s removal, as can be seen, has created a domino effect, as the experts predicted, resulting in the prices of even the basic commodities skyrocketing as everyone passes on the additional costs.

With inflation currently at 32.7% and still rising, things are only going to keep on getting more and more expensive. As a result, the new minimum wage of N70,000 will have less purchasing power than the previous 2021 minimum wage of N30,000. If fuel subsidy removal was meant to boost the economy it has done the opposite and will stagnate any efforts to kickstart it.

The governments inability to control corruption or severely punish corrupt officials which is robbing the country’s coffers of billions and billions of Naira every year is a stumbling block for development.

If a corrupt government official who built 750 houses with stolen funds or an ex-governor accused of misappropriating N80 billion are allowed to walk around freely, supposedly on bail, without fear of eventual conviction it questions the message the government is sending out to future looters: if the culprits were in Russia or China the outcome will be totally different.

Even though an austerity economic policy may seem harsh like it was designed to rob Peter to pay Paul, it should be short, sharp hardship with green pastures in the foreseeable future – not ever! A good start will be to cut down on the number of foreign loans being obtained every year as their repayment can take a huge chunk out of the country’s annual income.

The new tax laws are long overdue and it should include that VAT earned in a state stays in that state: so, if your state doesn’t generate any VAT (- such as from the sale of alcohol products) you don’t get to share in what other states have collected.

Insecurity in the country is not something that started yesterday. Previous governments have blood on their hands for not nipping these insurrections in the bud before they grew to become monstrosities. You don’t pat yourself on the back, like the Nigerian Army likes to do believing you have the threat ‘under control’ – you eliminate the threat completely using what ever means necessary.

Unless the order (given by ‘Somebody’) is not to destroy them completely and to quote the late Sani Abacha,”…any insurgency that lasts more than 24 hours, a government official has a hand in it..”, no wonder Boko Haram continues to flourish and bandits like Turji Bello continue to taut the government. When the armed robber Lawrence Anini did something similar in 1986 he was fished out within months, tried and executed.

As I’ve written before the Nigerian Police Force is long past its sell by date and considering the ever growing population of Nigeria with its associated acts of anti-social behaviour its time to seriously consider devolving the NPF into state-run outfits. The growing popularity of state-run security outfits, such as Amotekun, proves this is feasible and effective.

Considering the fact the country is going through severe economic hardship the President, himself, should curb frivolous spending where possible: no more new Presidential yachts or planes ( – that includes the new one for the VP), a cap on ridiculous-no-real-job SA and SSA appointments and most important of all a cap on ALL politicians salaries and perks (which is to say if politicians are patriotic enough they’ll agree to a pay cut, forgo some of their benefits and pay for their own jaunts abroad).

Implementing the Steve Oronsaye Report which recommends merging and closing of ministries etc that has been passed over by every President since President Goodluck commissioned it in 2011 will cut government operating costs even further. This should not just be at Presidential level but extended to all the states: this will not just streamline the bloated and largely inefficient civil service but will also weed out ghost workers and white elephant project.

The ‘japa’ movement which the government is trying to discourage should be allowed to continue. It’s morally wrong for a government that can’t provide suitable employment for its citizens to try and prevent them from seeking opportunities abroad : ‘japa’ is not just limited to Nigerians, it’s a worldwide phenomenon.

People, British, American, Filipinos, are migrating worldwide to where ever there are opportunities for them to prosper. That’s the way the world works now: nobody is going to stay in a ‘sh*t-hole’ country if there are no opportunities for them to grow. Scr3w patriotism! It’s every man for himself! So, if a country can’t provide adequate employment opportunities people will pack their bags and ‘japa’! And if you restrict them from leaving the country what are they going to do? Get up to mischief – 419, cultism, kidnapping!

These same people send money back to their home countries all the time: Nigerians in diaspora in 2023 alone sent home more than $19.5 Billion Dollars. This is a huge injection of foreign currency for a country that desperately needs it.

So, just like the Titanic the warning signs are there and the inevitable that will happen should they be ignored. The question is which way is President Tinubu going to go. This is what I call the ‘Titanic Wahala’, ignore the obvious and the proverbial will hit the fan, sooner or later.

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