Posted on Leave a comment

The Impact of Illegal Miners on African Insecurity

The Impact of Illegal Miners on African Insecurity


Illegal mining activities pose significant threats to communities across Africa, contributing to insecurity, environmental degradation, and social challenges. Nigeria is among the countries experiencing such impacts.

Impacts of Illegal Mining

  1. Displacement and cultural disruption: Communities face forced removals affecting traditional ways of life.
  2. Environmental harm: Mining can contaminate water, cause soil erosion, and damage ecosystems vital for local livelihoods.
  3. Violence and insecurity: Illegal miners often use coercive tactics leading to fear, displacement, and human rights concerns.
  4. Health risks: Exposure to pollutants from mining affects community health.

Factors Contributing to Illegal Mining

  • Weak regulatory frameworks: Gaps in laws and enforcement enable illegal activities.
  • Corruption: Can facilitate unauthorized mining operations.
  • Economic drivers: Demand for minerals and poverty fuel illegal mining.
  • Lack of alternatives: Economic pressures push communities toward tolerating or engaging in illegal mining.

Context in Nigeria and Africa

  • Niger Delta oil conflicts in Nigeria highlight longstanding issues over resource extraction.
  • Artisanal and illegal mining of minerals like gold, tin pose environmental and security challenges across Africa.

Empowering Communities

  • Resource mapping helps communities anticipate threats.
  • Awareness and education inform communities about risks and rights.
  • Community engagement in decision-making can lead to more equitable outcomes.
  • Collaboration with authorities supports regulation and protection.

Advice for Community Leaders

  1. Identify local resources and assess risks.
  2. Build partnerships with NGOs, government, and stakeholders.
  3. Develop plans for protecting resources and safety.
  4. Promote practices balancing economic needs with environmental and social protection.

Challenges and Examples

  • Community-based natural resource management shows approaches empowering locals.
  • Transparency initiatives like EITI promote accountability in extractives.
  • Challenges include capacity constraints, security risks, and balancing competing interests.
Posted on Leave a comment

Unlock Your Digital Potential: Online Training with SaoLegend Enterprise

Unlock Your Digital Potential: Online Training with SaoLegend Enterprise

HANDSKILLS ENTREPRENEURSHIP INITIATIVE FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT in partnership with SAOLEGEND ENTERPRISE presents an Online Digital Training from September 5-12, 2025!

Summer class is #5,000. Grab this opportunity! Unlock your digital potential with your smartphone! Learn:

1. AI image creation for brands & personal use
2. AI image-to-real face transformation
3. Talking photos
4. AI-powered content creation
5. Digital marketing
6. Graphic design
7. Web design
8. Video editing
9. Skills monetization

Get:

1. Exclusive online resources
2. Personalized mentorship
3. Lifetime support

Promo Price: #20,000 (was #40,000) while summer class is #5,000

Sign up now: (link unavailable)

Don’t miss out! Hurry before the promo ends!

Posted on 5 Comments

Discover the Beauty of NYSC Orientation Camp in Rivers State

Discover the Beauty of NYSC Orientation Camp in Rivers State

Located in the heart of Nonwa, Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, the NYSC Orientation Camp is a breathtaking destination that showcases the natural beauty of Nigeria.

A Haven of Serenity and Learning

The camp serves as a haven for prospective corps members, providing a serene environment that fosters learning, growth, and camaraderie. As they embark on their National Youth Service Corps journey, the camp offers a unique opportunity for young Nigerians to bond, share experiences, and develop essential skills.
A Blend of Nature and Infrastructure

The camp’s picturesque setting, complete with lush greenery and modern infrastructure, creates an ideal environment for personal growth and development. The facilities are designed to provide comfort and support, ensuring that corps members can focus on their orientation and service year ahead.

A Memorable Experience

A visit to the NYSC Orientation Camp in Nonwa, Tai LGA, is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a prospective corps member or simply looking to explore the beauty of Rivers State, this camp is definitely worth a visit.

Conclusion

The NYSC Orientation Camp in Rivers State is a testament to the beauty and potential of Nigeria’s youth development programs. As a hub for learning, growth, and service, the camp plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

Posted on Leave a comment

NIMC Empowers Corps Members in Kwara State for Nationwide NIN Ward Enrolment Drive

NIMC Empowers Corps Members in Kwara State for Nationwide NIN Ward Enrolment Drive

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has partnered with the Ministry of Youth Development and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train corps members for a nationwide National Identification Number (NIN) ward enrolment drive. This initiative aims to take NIN enrolment closer to the people, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Key Objectives:

Increase NIN Enrolment: NIMC has already enrolled and issued NINs to over 120 million Nigerians and legal residents, and this initiative seeks to cover previously unreachable areas.
Improve Accessibility: The ward enrolment drive will bring NIN enrolment services closer to communities nationwide, making it easier for Nigerians, especially children under 16, to obtain their NINs.
Support Renewed Hope Agenda: This initiative is part of President

Posted on Leave a comment

Misplaced Priorities: FG Rewards Super Falcons with N153m, Genius with N200k

The Federal Government’s recent gestures have sparked controversy, with a genius recognized as the World’s Best in English receiving N200,000, while each Super Falcons player earned $100,000 (approximately N153 million) for winning WAFCON. This stark contrast raises questions about our priorities.

What does this say about our values? Are intellectual achievements and literary excellence less valuable than athletic prowess? Shouldn’t exceptional academic accomplishments be recognized and rewarded equally, if not more so, than sporting achievements?

Comparing the Impact

Both the genius and the Super Falcons players have made significant contributions to their respective fields. However, their rewards tell different stories. The genius’s achievement may have a lasting impact on literature and academia, inspiring future generations. The Super Falcons’ victory, while thrilling, is a momentary triumph that may not have the same long-term effects.

The Bigger Picture

This disparity in rewards highlights a broader issue. We need to examine our priorities and consider the value we place on different achievements. By recognizing and rewarding intellectual pursuits, we can foster a culture that values knowledge, innovation, and creativity.

Ultimately, the question remains: what are our priorities, and how do we reflect them in our actions?

Posted on Leave a comment

BREAKING NEWS: Nigeria Government Bans Writing Assignments in Textbooks



In a bid to promote sustainability and reduce waste, the Anambra State Government has implemented a ban on writing assignments inside textbooks. This initiative aims to make textbooks reusable, particularly for younger siblings of pupils who will need them in the future.

Why the Ban?

The government views writing assignments in textbooks as a wasteful and unsustainable practice. By banning this practice, they hope to:

Reduce the financial burden on families who would otherwise need to purchase new textbooks every year
Promote a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility
Ensure that textbooks are preserved for future generations of students

Impact on Students

Students in Anambra State will need to find alternative methods for completing assignments, such as using notebooks or digital tools. This change is expected to take some getting used to, but ultimately, it will benefit the environment and the students’ wallets.

A Step towards Sustainability

The Anambra State Government’s ban on writing assignments in textbooks is a step in the right direction towards promoting sustainability and reducing waste. By adopting this practice, the state is setting an example for others to follow.

Posted on 4 Comments

FUTA Graduating Class of 24 (The Vicimus) Costume Day.

Federal University Of Technology Akure Graduating Class of 24 (The Vicimus) Costume Day

Costume Day is a cherished tradition in FUTA, allowing students to express their creativity and showcase their personalities. For The Vicimus, this day is an opportunity to bond, have fun, and create lasting memories with their fellow graduates.

The importance of Costume Day lies in its ability to:

  1. Foster camaraderie and school spirit
  2. Encourage creativity and self-expression
  3. Provide a break from academic rigor and allow students to unwind

The origin of Costume Day in FUTA is rooted in the desire to create a fun and memorable experience for graduating students. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved tradition that showcases the students’ creativity and individuality.

The Vicimus, FUTA’s Graduating Class of 24, is sure to make the most of this special day, showcasing their unique styles and personalities. Let’s wish them a fantastic celebration!

Posted on Leave a comment

Unmasking Neocolonialism in Africa: How Former Colonial Powers Still Shape the Continent’s Fate

Unmasking Neocolonialism in Africa: How Former Colonial Powers Still Shape the Continent’s Fate

African countries, including Nigeria, continue to grapple with the legacy of colonialism, as former colonial powers exert influence through economic and political means. This phenomenon, known as neocolonialism, can undermine African sovereignty and hinder economic development.

Neocolonialism operates through various channels, including economic influence, financial dependence, and political manipulation. Former colonial powers maintain significant economic interests in Africa, often through extractive industries like oil, gas, and minerals. Many African countries rely on foreign aid, loans, or investments, creating dependence and limiting their economic autonomy.

The effects of neocolonialism on African economies and security are far-reaching. Economic exploitation perpetuates underdevelopment and inequality, while limited sovereignty constrains African countries’ ability to make independent decisions. External powers may prioritize their own interests over regional stability, impacting African security.

To break free from neocolonialism, African countries can adopt strategies like economic diversification, regional integration, and strategic partnerships. By promoting intra-African trade and strengthening regional organizations like the African Union, African countries can collectively address neocolonialism and promote continental unity.

Posted on Leave a comment

How to Guide Your Daughter: Essential Tips for Parents on Sex Education”

“How to Guide Your Daughter: Essential Tips for Parents on Sex Education”

Sex education is an essential aspect of a child’s development, and parents play a vital role in providing guidance and support. Here are some tips for parents to consider:

1. Start the conversation early: It’s essential to begin talking to your child about sex and relationships from an early age, using age-appropriate language and examples.
2. Create a safe and open environment: Make sure your child feels comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns. Listen attentively and provide honest, accurate information.
3. Focus on values and boundaries: Teach your child about healthy relationships, boundaries, and respect for themselves and others.
4. Use correct anatomical terms: When discussing body parts, use correct anatomical terms to help your child understand and communicate effectively.
5. Discuss puberty and changes: As your child enters puberty, discuss the physical and emotional changes they may experience and how to manage them.
6. Talk about consent and respect: Emphasize the importance of consent, respect, and healthy relationships.
7. Be prepared for questions: Anticipate questions and be prepared to provide accurate and age-appropriate information.
8. Be open to ongoing conversations: Sex education is not a one-time conversation. Be open to ongoing discussions and questions as your child grows and develops.

By following these tips, parents can help their girls develop healthy attitudes towards sex, relationships, and their bodies, setting them up for a positive and empowered life.

Posted on Leave a comment

Kwara Govt, KWASU Partner on Electric Vehicle Conversion


The Kwara State Government, in collaboration with Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, has officially received converted electric vehicles as part of its commitment to promoting sustainable transportation and technological innovation in the state.

The Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, disclosed this recently during the official handing-over ceremony of the converted vehicles by KWASU to the State Government.

The Commissioner described the project as a significant milestone in the partnership between the state government and the university, showcasing the potential of electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly transportation in Kwara State.

Hon. Adelodun commended the unwavering support of the Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, whose visionary leadership and tireless efforts made the initiative possible and stated that the successful conversion of vehicles to electric power demonstrates the feasibility of sustainable transportation options in the state, noting that training for relevant staff will be provided soon.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, lauded the management of KWASU for conceiving and executing the initiative, especially at a critical period in the global energy transition, expressing gratitude to the Governor for “putting smiles on the faces of the people” through forward-thinking projects.

Representing the Vice Chancellor of KWASU, the Chairman of KWASU Holdings Committee, Prof. Kenneth Adeyemi, said the university is proud to collaborate with the state government on a project that highlights the potential of electric vehicles in Kwara and thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for trusting KWASU to undertake the project, while appreciating the management and staff of the Ministry for their support throughout its execution.

Prof. Adeyemi emphasised that the initiative is a testament to the viability of public private/public partnerships when carried out in a conducive environment, praising the Governor’s infrastructure-driven vision for building a “new Kwara State” and noted that KWASU’s conversion of scrapped gasoline engine vehicles into electric-powered models serves as a proof of concept for technological and innovative possibilities championed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology.

The collaboration between the Kwara State Government and KWASU aims to promote sustainable transportation, drive innovation and enhance environmental awareness in the state.

Present  at the handing-over ceremony of converted  Gasoline-to-Electric were the Director, Personnel, Finance and Supply, MBIT, Mrs. Motunrayo Adaran; Director, Commerce Department, MBIT, Mr. Taiwo Adebisi; Deputy Director, Commerce Department, MBIT, Alhaji Sani Ibrahim; Head of Investment, MBIT, Alhaji Sarafa Murtala; KWASU HOLACO Members – Dr. AbdulRahman Mustapha, Barr. Yakubu Tosho, Dr. Adeshina Lambo; Deputy Director, Centre  for Sustainable  Energy (CSE), Dr. Adeogun; other staff from CSE – Engr. Azeez Akande, Mr. Abdulganiyu Azeez, Mr. Abolaji Musiliu; KWASU Press, Mr. Isaka Babatunde; KWASU HOLACO Secretary, Mrs. Adejoke Adeniyi Jackson; among others.


Taibat Baba Adams,
Press Secretary,
MBIT.