Category: Nigerian Tribune

Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has made a direct appeal to Northern Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general election, urging them to trust him with the nation’s highest office, insisting that his presidency would unite rather than divide the country.

Speaking during an interview on Politics Today on Channels Television, Obi dismissed claims by some political opponents that an Igbo presidency would threaten Nigeria’s unity, arguing instead that electing a leader based on competence rather than ethnicity would mark the beginning of genuine national reconciliation.

Addressing Northerners directly, Obi declared that no Nigerian politician understands the challenges confronting the region better than he does.

‘I will work with them. I will ensure that unity, security and prosperity become realities. Nobody can drive that process today better than me,’ he said.

According to him, Nigeria has reached a point where citizens must abandon ethnic and religious politics and instead focus on solving the country’s pressing socio-economic challenges.

‘My ambition is to fix Nigeria, not occupy office’

Obi stressed that his presidential ambition is driven by a desire to rebuild Nigeria and not by a personal quest for power.

‘I don’t even need to hold any political office. I’m contesting because I believe I can unite this country and show what is possible.

‘What matters to me is seeing a Nigeria that works. Whether Peter Obi is President or not is not the issue. As long as Nigeria works, I’m satisfied.’

He maintained that leadership should be measured by the ability to improve citizens’ lives rather than by political titles.

Responding to criticisms from former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, who reportedly described him as incapable of uniting Nigeria, Obi said his personal record contradicts such allegations.

He recalled visiting several conflict-ridden communities across Northern Nigeria while serving as Governor of Anambra State and even after leaving office.

‘I visited Kaduna when many people were afraid to go there. I went to Borno, Plateau, Benue and several other troubled areas.

‘I spent Christmas and New Year in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue. I supported rebuilding schools for displaced children.

‘I have travelled across Nigeria by road more than many politicians because I love this country.’

He also listed educational and humanitarian interventions he personally sponsored in Northern states, including support for schools in Kaduna and Sokoto.

Obi further argued that Nigeria has not completely healed from the wounds of the Civil War but insisted that electing leaders based on merit rather than ethnicity would strengthen national cohesion.

‘The beginning of healing is when every Nigerian believes he or she can aspire to any office in the country.

‘We must stop being prisoners of yesterday. The future belongs to our children, who should grow up simply as Nigerians, not defined by tribe or religion.’

According to him, his administration would consciously build bridges across ethnic and religious divides.

‘I will never divide this country. I will unite Nigeria and show love to every part of it. I will involve everybody.’

Responding to allegations that he favours Christians over Muslims, Obi pointed to his record while serving as Governor of Anambra State.

‘My ADC was from Kaduna. Most of my commissioners were from Northern Nigeria. I funded pilgrimages for both Christians and Muslims equally.’

He added that he continues to support educational institutions owned by Muslim communities in Northern Nigeria through personal philanthropy.

‘So, where is the evidence that I discriminate? These are narratives deliberately created to keep Nigeria divided.’

Obi lamented what he described as the deliberate diversion of national discourse from critical governance issues to personality attacks.

‘Instead of discussing poverty, education, healthcare and insecurity, they spend their time discussing Peter Obi.

‘Over 80 million Nigerians live in poverty. Millions of children are out of school. Those should be the issues.’

He argued that politicians continue to exploit ethnic sentiments because they have no concrete solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges.

The former Anambra governor also reaffirmed his willingness to serve only one four-year term if elected President.

According to him, Nigeria’s problems are too urgent to justify prolonged political promises.

‘I don’t need more than four years to show Nigerians what good leadership can achieve.

‘When I contested for governor, everything I promised during campaigns, I implemented.

‘Leadership is about character and consistency.’

Obi said the country’s decline can be reversed within months if government demonstrates commitment, discipline and prudent management of public resources.

‘You can redirect Nigeria within six months if you have competent leadership.’

On insecurity, Obi argued that military operations alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security crisis.

‘Poverty is one of the biggest drivers of insecurity. The more poverty you create, the more criminality you produce.’

He promised to overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture and personally lead efforts to restore public confidence.

‘I will be fully committed. I will strengthen the security architecture and mobilise every available support, including international cooperation where necessary.’

He also pledged to personally visit communities affected by attacks instead of governing from a distance.

‘Whenever Nigerians are under attack, I will be there. As Governor of Anambra, whenever there was a security incident, I went there myself-even at 3 a.m. If securing Nigerians requires my physical presence, I will be there.’

Obi also took a swipe at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigeria is heading in the wrong direction under the current administration.

He argued that while government may have recorded some gains against insecurity, the scale of the crisis demands far more decisive leadership.

‘The President has done his best, but his best is no longer enough for the magnitude of the crisis we face.

‘Nigeria needs leadership with urgency, commitment and compassion.’

He maintained that the 2027 presidential election should be determined by who possesses the capacity to solve Nigeria’s challenges rather than by ethnic or religious considerations.

‘Our politics must move from tribe and religion to competence, character and capacity.

‘That is the Nigeria I want to build.’

Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has declared that his commitment to peace is driven by his desire to make heaven, stressing that every individual will one day account to God for their actions while on earth.

The Senator, presently Chairman of the Senate Service Committee, made the remark on Sunday while addressing his supporters shortly after a strategic meeting with key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi West.

The meeting was attended by local government chairmen, members of the APC State Executive Committee, APC local government chairmanship candidates, women leaders, and youth representatives.

Karimi urged all members of the party to put aside their differences and work together to ensure the APC records a resounding victory in the 2027 general elections.

According to him, unity within the party is essential to sustaining the achievements of the APC-led administration at both the state and national levels.

‘All my life, I have always wanted peace because I want to make heaven. Whatever you have in this world is temporary. When the time comes, God will judge you according to your deeds while you were alive,’ he said.

The lawmaker explained that the stakeholders’ meeting was convened to strengthen cohesion within the party and rally support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid.

‘I called this meeting to ensure that members of our party work together for the success of the APC. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election is our first priority, and we must deliver Kogi West for him. The President is doing well, and we must unite to ensure that our people come out in large numbers to vote during the election,’ Karimi stated.

He commended President Tinubu for the efforts being made to address Nigeria’s security challenges, including insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry.

Karimi noted that the proposed establishment of state police is one of the measures being considered by the Federal Government to strengthen security and effectively tackle criminal activities across the country.

He called on APC members in Kogi West to remain loyal to the party, shun actions capable of causing division, and focus on building a united front that would guarantee victory for the APC in the 2027 elections.

WE have seen that by January 1, 1900, four distinct administrative units had emerged. They were: (1) The Colony and Protectorate of Lagos under a Governor; (2) The Protectorate of Southern Nigeria under a High Commissioner; (3) The Protectorate of Northern Nigeria under a High Commissioner; and (4) The Egba United Government under the Alake of Abeokuta and his Chiefs. British officials in charge of the first three were responsible to the Colonial Office. But this had not always been the case.

Before 1900, British officials in Nigeria were responsible to three different authorities. Those in the Niger Coast Protectorate, later known as the Protectorate of Southern Nigeria, were responsible to the Foreign Office; those in the Colony and Protectorate of Lagos, to the Colonial Office; while those in charge of the areas which later became the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria were responsible to the Board of Directors of the Royal Niger Company. This extra-ordinary administrative set-up was streamlined in 1900, and fully rationalised in 1914 under the Governor-Generalship of Lord (then Sir Frederick) Lugard.

An imperialist of a very deep dye, Lord Lugard was an exceedingly able and resourceful administrator, and a brilliant soldier. To him, more than to anyone else, belongs the credit and discredit for setting Nigeria on a course which Nigerian nationalists and patriots feel themselves obliged to pursue, albeit with mixed feelings, till the present day. We shall have more to say on this assertion in Chapter 4. For the time being, let us try to learn, among other things, a little more about this man and his doings in Nigeria. His first visit to Nigeria was in 1894. He was then a soldier with the rank of Captain; and he had come here, on behalf of the Royal Niger Company, to negotiate treaties with the Chiefs of Borgu. It was his speed and skill in the conduct and conclusion of the negotiations that won Borgu for Britain and Nigeria as against France and Dahomey. He had beaten the French to it by only five days.

After a spell of service with the British East India Company, he reappeared on the Nigerian scene in 1897 as Brigadier-General. He had been commissioned by the British Government to go to West Africa to raise a local military force which was to be officered by men from the British army. The immediate object of this arrangement was to cope with the threats of French aggression ‘on the western boundaries of Northern Nigeria. But it was also intended that this force, together with three companies of the West Indian Regiment, would combine to protect British possessions in West Africa. He executed his mission successfully, and the Royal West African Frontier Force, with headquarters at Jebba, was born. It must be mentioned that the R.W.A.F.F. remained in being for 60 years. It was disbanded, and reconstituted on strictly national basis when Ghana pulled her men out of it on her attainment of independence in 1957.

On January 1, 1900, Lugard became High Commissioner of the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria. As we have noted, one of the things which led to the revocation of the Charter of the Royal Niger Company was its inability to bring the bulk of the areas within its allotted jurisdiction under effective administrative control and, hence, British influence. As a matter of fact, when the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria was inaugurated in 1900, slave-raids, slave-trade, and slavery were prevalent in most parts of the North, and internecine wars continued to be waged. But within the space of six years, Lugard had, by force of arms and clever diplomatic moves, subdued the North and pacified it. He had, into the bargain, established orderly government, as well as effective

British influence throughout the region.

The size of Northern Nigeria, coupled with the difficulties of communication and of means of transportation, presented formidable administrative problems. ‘Direct administration of such an area, under

the prevailing conditions, would have involved the British Government in extremely heavy expenditure. A large army of administrative and military personnel of British origin would have been required. The expenditure necessary to maintain such a huge personnel would have been considered by the British Government to be quite disproportionate-to Nigerian prospects. And, in any case, it would have been impossible to attract British citizens of the right type and education, in those numbers, for service in Nigeria, which, like other countries on the west coast of Africa, had earned the odious reputation of being the’ White Man’s Grave’.

Furthermore, direct British Rule would have almost implacably antagonised, and embittered another imperial power, indigenous to Africa, the Fulani, which had preceded the British to the North by about 100 years. Indeed, with other ‘principalities and powers’ prowling around for more and more of the African loot, and waiting for Britain’s injudicious and unguarded hours, such a course would almost certainly have had the effect of driving the ruling class in the North into the imperialist embrace of the French or the Germans.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has said a joint presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso has a stronger chance of winning the 2027 presidential election.

He made the remarks during an interview with Symfoni TV released on Saturday.

According to him, Peter Obi-Kwankwaso ticket would stand a 70 per cent chance of victory, while he predicted that President Bola Tinubu would have a 50 per cent chance and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar would lose.

His words; ‘Peter Obi will try to be fair to everybody. Peter Obi will try to do that which is right. Peter Obi, Kwankwaso, take note, I’m pairing them. I’m pairing them. Individually will be disaster, but I’m pairing them.

‘So I’ll give them, on my own scale, close to like 70 per cent. Again, Bola, 50. Atiku, zero.’

He stated that Atiku would not win the 2027 presidential election.

‘Definitely, Atiku will lose. He will, and I pray he loses. I’m not the only one, and he will lose,’ he added.

Lawal’s comments come after his fallout with Atiku following his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The former SGF has repeatedly alleged that the ADC presidential primary that produced Atiku as the party’s candidate was marred by widespread irregularities, claims the party has refuted several times.

Numerous Nigerian homeowners have been putting money into solar power systems to avoid the unreliability of the grid, but after a few months, they begin to see a significant decrease in the amount of power their solar systems produce.

The environmental factors which cause the glass surface to become a physical barrier are dust, harmattan haze and bird droppings which are never encountered by the system. This buildup blocks sunlight from the PV cells below, gradually cutting back your energy production each day.

A cheaper solution can get your system back to its best, rather than spending big money with professional technicians.

High cost of dirty panels

Dirt can do a lot more harm than just the untidy look of your roof. Field research conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) indicates that without regular cleaning of the solar panels, they lose as much as 25% of their overall efficiency each year in dusty or dry areas.

However, in the Nigeria environment, the power drop may happen in a few weeks given the high dust load transported by the harmattan winds, which results in undercharging of batteries and frequent power outages for appliances.

Essential DIY kit

Special industrial chemicals and expensive technology are not required for restoring your system.

The most basic and safe way to start is to buy a soft-bristle broom or a long-handled window squeegee with a sponge side, which can be acquired from the local hardware market for anywhere between N3,500 to N4,500. Use this with a regular bucket of clean water (soft tap/ distilled water) to which you add a few drops of the safe and environmentally friendly dish washing liquid, making your highly effective N5,000 cleaning kit complete.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for Peak Performance

First, make sure there is a complete electrical safety by shutting down your solar inverter and isolating the DC breaker before touching the roof array. It is important to clean in the early morning or late evening as the hot water temperature from the panels could cause thermal shock to the glass and crack it when exposed to full sunlight in the afternoon.

Second, remove the top layer of material with a gentle brush or a garden hose with low pressure. Avoid pressure washers, hard plastic brushes or abrasive wire sponges as they will cause micro-scratches to the tempered glass, scattering the sunlight and reducing the efficiency over time.

Third, clean the surface systematically with your soapy water solution and sponge extension in order to carefully remove any stuck bird droppings and baked-on dirt. Use the rubber squeegee side to keep the glass from getting hard water stains and mineral streaks, since the hard water and minerals block sunlight from reaching the solar cells below the glass.

The Senate has moved to compel Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to comply with its resolutions amid alleged growing disregard for parliamentary oversight duties by the agencies.

Top among the penalties approved by the Senate is zero budgetary allocations to MDAs and all statutory and non-statutory bodies flouting resolutions arising from motions passed on the floor.

A latest report by the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance named the Ministry of Works; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Power; Ministry of Petroleum Resources; Ministry of Information; Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction; Ministry of Environment; and Ministry of Solid Minerals Development among the defaulters that will risk zero allocation of funds in 2027.

Also listed in the details of the report obtained by the Nigerian Tribune are the Department of State Services (DSS); Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC); National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA); Nigeria Revenue Service; Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC); Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoS); Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA); and the Ecological Fund Office.

The committee, which is chaired by Senator Garba Maidoki, had investigated the non-implementation of 27 resolutions passed by the Senate by the affected MDAs, leading to the recommended penalties.

The Senate, acting on powers conferred under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Order 95(A) Rule (7) of its Standing Orders, 2026, set up the committee to monitor compliance with Senate resolutions by MDAs and other bodies.

‘In the course of its work, during the period under review (of 27 resolutions), the committee observed with concern that some MDAs did not fully comply with resolutions of the Senate, thereby undermining legislative oversight and diminishing the efficacy of parliamentary resolution’, the report stated.

The finding prompted the recommendation on zero allocations, especially as the committee noted that some of the agencies either simply ignored the resolutions or failed to honour invitations to make appearances in the course of the investigation.

The report noted that while it is within the powers of the Senate to make resolutions, the authority to act on them lies with the executive, which in this instance, failed to perform its own part of the chain.

‘The implementation of Senate resolutions is often delayed and sometimes ignored.

‘The Executive retains the final authority to issue directives for the implementation of Senate resolutions’, it further noted.

The report added, ‘Accordingly, the committee recommends that the Senate apply budgetary or other sanctions on MDAs that fail to respond or implement resolutions of the Senate, including but not limited to Federal Ministries of Works, Health, Power, Petroleum Resources, Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Information, Environment and Solid Minerals Development as well as the DSS, Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC)…’

However, the committee also found that some agencies were unable to implement resolutions because funding was not provided in their respective budgets to do so, even if they were willing to comply.

For such agencies, the report called for budgetary provisions to be made in the succeeding year to accommodate the implementation of the resolutions.

It cited the case of the NDLEA, which had yet to address the medical treatment of Eromonsele Omhonria, a child shot and injured by its officer on July 13, 2023, during an NDLEA operation in Asaba, Delta State, ‘due to its inability to access funds from the Confiscated and Forfeited Properties account to facilitate the child’s treatment abroad.’

The committee recommended ‘automatic appropriation’ in the following year’s budget to address cases such as Omhonria’s, where the affected MDA is ready to comply but for lack of funds due to non-provision in the current budget.

But, in all other instances of deliberate disregard for Senate resolutions, ‘particularly on roads’, the committee recommended zero allocations for the defaulting MDA in the next budget to serve as a deterrent.

However, the report also partly indicted lawmakers for rushing to pass certain resolutions without first doing their own due diligence to be sure that resolutions from such motions do not have encumbrances like insufficient financing, legality and wrong conclusions.

It stated, ‘Some agencies directed to implement Senate resolutions lack the requisite statute mandate to do so.

‘Sponsors of motions often did not investigate matters fully before seeking legislative action, and multiple prayers on a motion relating to actions to be taken by a single agency affect effective implementation of the resolutions adopted therefrom.’

Incidentally, while the Committee on Legislative Compliance was conducting the investigation, the Senate also passed a separate resolution on July 23, threatening to invoke serious sanctions against heads of Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs), MDAs who fail to honour invitations by its committees for appearances henceforth.

It said in that separate intervention that such sanctions would include issuance of arrest warrants and zero allocations in the national budget, a similar penalty as also recommended by the detailed report by the Committee on Legislative Compliance obtained by the Nigerian Tribune.

The resolution followed a motion moved by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa, backed by 18 others, on the ‘Persistent Non-Compliance by Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs) and MDAs with the Oversight Activities of the Senate Committee on Finance.’

About 14 years after stepping away from the spotlight, Nigerian rapper and music executive, Lanre Dabiri, popularly known as Eldee The Don, is preparing for a highly anticipated return to the music scene.

The rapper, who dominated Nigeria’s music industry in the 2000s with a string of hit songs, recently gave fans a preview of a new song on his social media page, signaling that his long break from recording music may finally be over.

The teaser is believed to be one of the tracks from his forthcoming extended play project titled Long Time Coming, a title that many fans say perfectly reflects his lengthy absence from the industry. Eldee’s announcement immediately sparked excitement online, with many music lovers flooding the comment section to welcome him back and express their eagerness to hear fresh music from one of Nigerian hip-hop’s pioneers.

The preview showcased the lyrical storytelling, smooth rap delivery and melodic style that earned him widespread acclaim during his prime, reminding listeners of classic records such as Big Boy, Bosi Gbangba and Na Wash.

Eldee stepped away from active music after releasing his last album in 2012, choosing instead to focus on business opportunities in the United States, where he established interests in technology, real estate and other entrepreneurial ventures.

Over the years, he has maintained that leaving music was a carefully considered decision rather than one forced upon him by circumstances.

In an earlier interview, he explained, ‘The business side of music for me wasn’t making sense anymore. I realised it was not something that was sustainable. Music wasn’t going to see me through retirement, so I decided to do something else.’

He also revealed that his other businesses were generating significantly more income, making it easier for him to leave the entertainment industry at the time and focus on securing his future.

Despite his long absence, Eldee’s influence on Nigerian music has remained undeniable. As a founding member of the legendary Trybesmen group and the founder of Trybe Records, he played a major role in shaping the careers of several artists, including Sasha P and Dr Sid.

His contributions helped define the sound of Nigerian hip-hop and Afrobeats during the early 2000s, earning him recognition as one of the country’s most respected lyricists and innovators.

With the announcement of his new project, fans are hopeful that the veteran rapper will once again make a significant impact on the evolving Afrobeats landscape while reconnecting with longtime supporters and introducing his music to a new generation of listeners.

Abdulmalik Salman, a Nigerian scholar and doctoral student, was recently recognised as the Most Outstanding Graduate in Secondary English Language Arts in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, University of Alabama, United States, during the institution’s 2026 Honors Day, an annual event celebrating exceptional academic achievement. Originally from Ejigbo, Osun State, Salman has built a career spanning classroom teaching, language education, educational leadership, and research, with a focus on literacy, culturally relevant teaching, and linguistic justice.

In this interview with ADAM MOSADIOLUWA, he reflects on his journey from the University of Ibadan to the United States, the significance of the award, his research on equitable language education, the future of artificial intelligence in classrooms, and his advice for young Nigerians aspiring to careers in education and academia.

Congratulations on being recognised as the Most Outstanding Graduate Student in Secondary English Language Arts at the University of Alabama’s 2026 Honors Day. How did you receive the news, and what did the award mean to you personally?

Thank you very much. I received the news through an email inviting me to the College of Education’s 2026 Honors Day Convocation. At first, I wasn’t sure what it was about because the email didn’t specify the award category. I remember having mixed feelings and wondering why I had been invited. After speaking with some of my professors and mentors, I realized they had nominated me for the award. Honestly, I was speechless.

Receiving the award was both humbling and encouraging. More than anything, I saw it as a vote of confidence in my journey as a scholar and educator. It reminded me that the work we do, even when it feels challenging or unnoticed, can make an impact.

I am sincerely grateful to my PhD advisor, Dr. Latrise P. Johnson, and to Dr. Karen Spector for believing in me, supporting my growth, and encouraging me in my doctoral journey. Their mentorship has shaped me in profound ways, and this recognition means more to me than I can fully express. The award recognises exceptional performance among graduate students in your area of study. Looking back on your academic journey, what does attaining this milestone represent for you?

When I reflect on my academic journey, I see this recognition as a testament to the value of commitment, perseverance, and continuous learning. It reminds me that academic success is not simply about individual achievement but about consistently striving to grow, remaining open to new ideas, and learning from the people around you.

For me, this milestone also comes with a greater sense of responsibility. It challenges me to be even more intentional in my research, my teaching, and my service to the profession. As an emerging scholar, I want my work to contribute meaningfully to improving educational opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds. So, while I am grateful for this recognition, I also see it as motivation to keep learning, keep serving, and keep pursuing work that can make a positive difference.

Can you take us through your journey from Ejigbo, Osun State, to becoming an award-winning doctoral student at the University of Alabama? What were some of the defining moments that shaped your academic path?

Hmmmnn! That’s a question I always enjoy reflecting on because it reminds me how every stage of my journey has shaped who I am today.

I was born and raised in Ejigbo, Osun State, Nigeria, where I completed my primary and secondary education. Looking back, my academic journey began long before I entered graduate school. As a secondary school student, I already knew I wanted to work in the humanities and education because I genuinely enjoyed teaching, connecting with people, and listening to their stories. I believed education could be a powerful tool for transforming lives.

Growing up in Nigeria also exposed me to experiences that would later become central to my research. My schooling was characterized by strict English-only policies, and speaking Yoruba, which is my first language, was often discouraged and even punished. At the time, I accepted those practices as normal because they were part of the educational system I knew. It was only years later that I began asking deeper questions about what those policies meant for students’ identities, learning, and sense of belonging.

I owe a great deal to my parents, especially my father, whose encouragement and belief in education inspired me to pursue this path. With their support, I enrolled at the University of Ibadan, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Teacher Education and English with a minor in Communication and Language Arts. I also completed my master’s degree in Language Education at the same institution.

After graduation, I taught English Language and Literature to students at various levels of education before moving into education program management and language assessment. Those professional experiences gave me opportunities to work with learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. They helped me realize that language education is about much more than grammar or vocabulary. It is deeply connected to identity, culture, power, and educational opportunity.

Coming to the University of Alabama for my doctoral studies was another defining moment. The experience transformed how I think about language, literacy, and education. Through courses in critical literacy, second language acquisition, multicultural education, qualitative inquiry, and language teacher education, I encountered scholars whose work gave me the language to understand questions I had been carrying for many years. Reading the works of Gloria Ladson-Billings, Bell Hooks, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Paulo Freire, Ofelia García, and many others fundamentally reshaped my thinking as both a teacher and a researcher.

Today, my research focuses on critical pedagogy, English language teacher education, culturally relevant teaching, and linguistic justice. I am particularly interested in understanding how teachers can create classrooms where students’ cultural and linguistic identities are valued as strengths.

When I look back, I realize that every stage of my journey – from growing up in Ejigbo, to studying at the University of Ibadan, to teaching, working in education, and now pursuing doctoral research in the United States has been preparing me to explore one central question, which is: How can language education become more humanizing, equitable, and responsive to the diverse realities of learners? That question continues to guide both my research and my teaching, and I hope it will continue to shape my contributions throughout my career.

You earned both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Ibadan before pursuing your PhD in the United States. What motivated your decision to continue your academic journey abroad, and how challenging was that transition?

First, I would like to acknowledge the University of Ibadan because the academic foundation I received there has been invaluable. It equipped me with the knowledge, discipline, and confidence that prepared me for doctoral studies.

My decision to pursue a PhD in the United States was motivated by a desire to broaden my academic horizons. I wanted to learn within a different educational system, engage with diverse perspectives, and expose myself to new ways of thinking about teaching, research, and language education. I believed that studying in a different cultural and academic environment would help me grow both professionally and personally.

Of course, the transition was not easy. Moving to a new country meant adjusting to different academic expectations, cultural norms, social systems, and even everyday ways of life. Like many international students, I had to learn how to navigate a new environment while balancing the demands of rigorous doctoral study.

But those challenges also became opportunities for growth. They taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of building meaningful relationships with mentors, colleagues, and the wider community. Even after three years in the United States, I continue to learn something new every day. I meet people from different backgrounds, encounter new ideas, and gain fresh perspectives. To me, that is one of the greatest values of education; it is a lifelong process of learning, unlearning, and growing.

Your research focuses on literacy, language education, culturally relevant teaching, and critical pedagogy. For readers unfamiliar with these concepts, what do they mean, and why are they important in today’s classrooms?

At the heart of my research is a very simple question: How can schools help every student succeed while honoring who they are?

Literacy is much more than learning to read and write. It is about helping people understand the world, communicate effectively, and think critically. Language education is about supporting people as they learn and use languages to connect with others and participate fully in society.

Culturally relevant teaching means recognizing that students come to school with different languages, cultures, experiences, and ways of knowing. Rather than asking students to leave those parts of themselves at the classroom door, effective teaching builds on those strengths to support learning. Critical pedagogy, on the other hand, is the idea that education should help students think critically about the world around them, ask thoughtful questions, and become active participants in creating positive change in their communities.

These ideas are relevant because today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever before. When students feel that their identities, languages, and lived experiences are respected, they are more likely to participate, engage with learning, and reach their full potential. Therefore, good and quality education is about giving every student the opportunity to succeed.

A significant part of your work explores how culturally and linguistically diverse students experience literacy and language learning. What inspired this research interest, and what impact do you hope it will have on education?

My interest in this area is personal as well as professional. As I said earlier, I experienced educational practices that placed a strong emphasis on English while often discouraging the use of students’ home languages. At the time, I accepted those experiences as normal, but over the years I began asking what those policies meant for students’ identities, sense of belonging, and opportunities to learn.

Later, as an English teacher, I worked with students from many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Those experiences showed me that every learner brings valuable knowledge, experiences, and perspectives into the classroom. The challenge is whether our educational systems recognize and build upon those strengths.

My hope is that my research encourages educators to see cultural and linguistic diversity as an asset rather than a barrier. I want to contribute to language teacher education and classroom practices that create more inclusive, equitable, and humanizing learning environments, where every student feels seen, respected, and capable of succeeding.

You often speak about equity, identity, and justice in education. In practical terms, how can teachers create classrooms where students from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds feel valued and included?

I believe inclusion begins with listening. Every student enters the classroom with a unique story, and teachers make a tremendous difference when they take time to learn about those stories rather than making assumptions. Students want to know that their voices matter and that their experiences are valued.

Practically, this can happen in many ways. Teachers can include books and learning materials that reflect different cultures and perspectives. They can encourage students to share their experiences and connect lessons to their own lives. They can also recognize multilingualism as a strength by creating opportunities for students to draw on the languages they already know while learning new ones.

Just as importantly, teachers should hold high expectations for every student while providing the support each learner needs to succeed. Equity does not mean lowering standards; it means ensuring that every student has meaningful opportunities to meet those standards.

When students feel respected, represented, and supported, they are more likely to develop confidence, engage actively in learning, and believe that they truly belong in the classroom.

You were previously elected to the board of the Alabama-Mississippi Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (AMTESOL) and now serve as Co-Chair of the Proposal Committee for its 2027 conference. What has that experience taught you about educational leadership and professional service?

Serving in AMTESOL has been one of the most rewarding parts of my professional journey. It has given me the opportunity to work alongside dedicated educators who are truly committed to improving English language education and advocating for multilingual learners.

One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that leadership is fundamentally about service. It is not about holding a title; it is about creating opportunities for others to learn, collaborate, and grow. Whether serving on the board or helping coordinate proposals for our annual conference, my focus has been on supporting educators and creating spaces where innovative ideas and diverse voices can be shared.

These experiences have also shown me the importance of collaboration. The most meaningful progress in education happens when teachers, researchers, school leaders, and communities work together toward common goals.

Having studied and worked in both Nigeria and the United States, what are the biggest differences you’ve observed between the two education systems, particularly in literacy and language education? Are there lessons each country can learn from the other?

Both systems have unique strengths. Nigeria has dedicated teachers, resilient students, and a strong emphasis on foundational knowledge despite limited resources. The U.S. education system, in many contexts, places greater emphasis on student-centered learning, critical thinking, classroom discussion, and supporting diverse learners.

In literacy and language education, I believe Nigeria can benefit from giving greater value to students’ home languages and creating more learner-centered classrooms. At the same time, the U.S. can continue learning from countries like Nigeria, where multilingualism is a natural part of everyday life. Both countries can learn from one another by creating educational systems that are both academically rigorous and culturally relevant and sustaining.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how students read, write, and learn. As someone researching literacy and language education, how do you see AI shaping the future of education, and what opportunities and risks should educators be aware of?

AI has enormous potential to make learning more personalized, improve access to educational resources, and support both teachers and students. If used well and ethically, it can enhance learning and create new opportunities for creativity and collaboration.

At the same time, nothing can effectively replace authentic human interaction in teaching and learning. I believe AI should complement human thinking, meaningful classroom interactions, and good teaching. Educators also need to help students use AI responsibly by developing critical thinking, ethical awareness, and the ability to evaluate information. The future of education is not AI versus teachers; it is teachers using AI thoughtfully to improve learning.

Many Nigerian students dream of securing fully funded postgraduate opportunities abroad. What practical steps helped you prepare for your PhD journey, and what advice would you offer to those hoping to follow a similar path?

I prepared by building a strong academic foundation, gaining teaching and professional experience, participating in research, and seeking guidance from colleagues and mentors. I also invested time in developing my research interests and preparing competitive application materials.

My advice is to be intentional and not be discouraged by temporary setbacks. Read widely, seek mentorship, build meaningful experiences beyond the classroom, and apply to opportunities that align with your goals. Most importantly, believe in your potential. Persistence, preparation, and consistency often make the difference.

Research can be intellectually demanding, especially at doctoral level. Were there moments when you questioned yourself or considered giving up? If so, how did you overcome those periods?

Absolutely. I think this is true of any worthwhile endeavor. Every journey has its highs and lows, and doctoral research is no exception. There are certainly moments when the work becomes overwhelming, but I have never seriously considered giving up.

Whenever I feel challenged, I remind myself why I started this journey in the first place. I also lean on my support system: my mentors, colleagues, friends, and family. Sometimes, the best thing I can do is take a short break, rest, and return with a fresh perspective. I’ve learned that taking care of yourself is part of doing the work well.

As a Nigerian scholar making an impact in the United States, how do you think your achievements reflect the potential of Nigerian students and researchers on the global stage?

I believe my journey reflects what many people already know about Nigeria and Nigerians. Nigerians are exceptionally talented, resilient, and hardworking. Given the right opportunities and supportive environments, we can thrive anywhere in the world.

I see my achievements not only as personal milestones but also as a reminder that talent exists everywhere. What many young Nigerians need is access to quality education, mentorship, and opportunities to demonstrate their abilities. I hope my story encourages others to believe that they, too, can make meaningful contributions on the global stage.

If you had the opportunity to redesign one aspect of Nigeria’s education system overnight, what would be the first thing you would change, and why?

I would make instruction in children’s home or first language a central part of education throughout the primary school years, alongside English. Research consistently shows that children learn best when they build strong literacy and thinking skills in a language they understand well. This approach would strengthen learning and help children value their own languages and cultures while also developing proficiency in English.

Many Nigerians believe the country’s greatest resource is its young people. Based on your experience working with students, what is one quality among Nigerian youths that gives you the greatest hope for the future?

What gives me the greatest hope is their resilience and determination. Nigerian young people have an incredible ‘can-do’ spirit. Even in the face of challenges, many remain eager to learn, improve themselves, and pursue their goals.

Our generation also has access to technology and information in ways that previous generations did not. I see many young Nigerians using these opportunities to acquire new skills, build businesses, conduct research, and connect with the world. That willingness to keep learning gives me great confidence in the future.

Beyond your research and academic responsibilities, what do you enjoy doing in your free time, and how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance while pursuing a PhD?

I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring nature, traveling, connecting with friends and family, and playing football both in person and on my PlayStation. Those activities help me recharge and maintain perspective.

Pursuing a PhD is demanding, but I’ve learned that maintaining a healthy balance is important. Taking time to rest, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy simple hobbies helps me return to my work with renewed energy and focus.

Finally, what advice would you give to young Nigerians who aspire to build successful careers in education, research, and academia, whether at home or abroad?

My biggest advice is to be intentional and purposeful in everything you do. Whether you are a teacher, a researcher, or a student, always know why you are doing what you are doing. Let your work be driven by purpose, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

I would also encourage young people like me to keep learning, seek mentors, collaborate with others, and never be afraid to ask questions. Most importantly, don’t let setbacks define you. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. If you remain committed to excellence and continue investing in yourself, opportunities will come, and your work can make an impact far beyond your immediate community.

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 48 kidnapped victims following a terrorist attack on Magami village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara.

The rescue operation, carried out in the early hours of July 26, followed a swift response by troops after receiving a distress call that heavily armed terrorists had invaded the community.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja on Sunday.

According to the statement, troops of Sector 2 were alerted that a large group of terrorists, riding about 40 motorcycles, had stormed Magami village and abducted several residents.

The statement said the attackers had rounded up numerous villagers with the intention of taking them into the forest, while another group remained on the outskirts of the community with the motorcycles.

‘On arrival at the scene, the troops immediately engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, forcing them to abandon the kidnapped victims and flee into the surrounding bush,’ the statement said.

It added that the troops’ prompt intervention led to the successful rescue of all 48 abducted civilians.

The military, however, disclosed that one civilian was killed during the attack, while two others sustained gunshot injuries.

The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital, Kaura Namoda, where they are receiving treatment.

Following the rescue operation, troops conducted aggressive patrols across the area to maintain dominance and prevent further attacks by the fleeing terrorists.

The Theatre Command commended the gallantry and professionalism displayed by the troops during the operation and reassured residents of the North-West of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to sustain ongoing efforts to rid the region of terrorist elements.

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has announced the planned closure of Konduga IDP camp, following the successful closure of Bama IDP camp, the largest displacement facility outside the state capital, and the planned shutdown of Gwoza camp.

Speaking to newsmen on Sunday, Babagana Zulum, however, stressed that the relocation is entirely voluntary and no one will be forced to resettle where they are not willing to go.

The Governor has consistently maintained that returning to ancestral homes or other areas of choice must be based on the displaced persons’ expressed willingness.

He said, ‘We are not carrying out the resettlement process immediately; we are here to discuss with the IDPs so that in the next four months they will be resettled in a dignified manner. I believe you heard from the IDPs that they are willing to return home. Return shall be voluntary, not by force.’

During his visit to Konduga, Governor Zulum inspected resettlement houses currently under construction in Amarwa and later proceeded to Maiwa in Mafa LGA. The Amarwa resettlement city, for which the Governor had earlier laid the foundation, is being built to shelter displaced persons living in camps.

In Maiwa, the state government is constructing massive housing units as part of the ongoing resettlement programme. The resettlement houses are equipped with public facilities like a primary healthcare centre, a water facility, and other basic amenities.

Babagana Zulum was accompanied by the member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba; the member of the House of Assembly for Konduga, Hon. Bukar Modu; the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; and other senior government officials.