Category: Nigerian Tribune

As the Nigerian judiciary concludes its annual ritual of new legal year commemorations across the federation, a leading non-governmental organisation has challenged the courts to move beyond celebratory rhetoric and address what it termed the lingering justice questions that keep justice out of reach for the average citizen.

Zarephath Aid (ZA), a non-profit focused on criminal justice reforms, delivered this message at a media conference held at the Press Centre, High Court of Lagos State, Ikeja.

Speaking at the media briefing themed ‘The New Legal Year and the Lingering Justice Questions,’ Ben Abraham, Founder of Zarephath Aid, noted that while legal year ceremonials are marked by significant ‘pomp and pageantry’ and speeches filled with achievements and projections, many Nigerians remain disconnected.

‘They eagerly await the day when they can touch justice or put differently, the day justice can touch them,’ Abraham stated, urging heads of the judiciary to take note of concrete steps required to make the significance of the legal year resonate with the populace.

The organisation laid out a five-point agenda for immediate action by the various tiers of the judiciary, stressing that the courts must move from mere words to tangible action in defence of the law and democracy.

Zarephath Aid highlighted the persistent failure of judicial officers to carry out monthly visits to law enforcement detention facilities, a mandate under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and various state laws.

This lack of oversight, the group warned, directly results in the illegal detention of persons and widespread abuse of suspects’ rights.

The NGO called for the effective implementation of oversight assessment reports to the Chief Judge and Attorney-General to curb these violations.

The group also expressed concern that the Child Rights Law exists only on paper in many states, devoid of the necessary structures for child protection and justice delivery.

It further lamented the lack of adequate detention facilities for child and underage offenders, which often results in them being held alongside adults and subjected to further abuse.

Of particular note, according to the organisation, is the slow trial of cases involving underage offenders in custody due to the absence of logistics for transportation to court, forcing relatives to pay heavily to ensure court appearances.

Zarephath Aid decried what it termed the progressive increase in police brutality, torture, extortion, and violations against citizens, observing that the police internal mechanism has proven ineffective in curbing the menace.

Abraham warned, ‘If the courts fail to leash this errancy, another uprising will be upon us sooner than later.’

The NGO also accused the police of shrinking the civic space by clamping down on rights activists, government critics, good governance advocates, and journalists, often ‘working for the Executive in some instances.’

‘Despite various legal aid interventions, correctional facilities remain severely congested, with inmates spending years on end awaiting trial,’ it added.

Zarephath Aid called for an audit of all correctional facilities to identify inmates and ascertain the status of each case.

This effort, the group recommended, requires the various tiers of the judiciary to collaborate closely with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) at the federal level and State Criminal Justice Sector Reform Committees.

Zarephath Aid insisted that the Cybercrimes Act 2024 is being applied to muzzle dissent and intimidate critics of the government into silence, noting that many criminal charges premised on the law are politically instigated.

In its words: ‘As long as our courts accommodate this undue interference and as long as they do not halt this surge against citizens’ constitutional right to freedom of expression, the Act will remain a tool for harassment of opponents.’

In concluding the conference, Abraham invited the media to join Zarephath Aid in monitoring the judiciary’s performance on this agenda over the next year, reinforcing the message that the judiciary must now go beyond rhetoric to action.

MORE than 100 students from seven secondary schools in Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, have benefited from a workshop on technology and artificial intelligence that was organised recently by a UK -based tech expert, Kayode Ajayi.

The students were trained on the use of technology in building build apps, solving real problems and the creation of career opportunities.

The workshop which also featured an interactive session with the students on software development, also involved a training on web design and IT support.

Speaking on the event, the convener, Ajayi noted that the workshop is meant to give the students the opportunity to explore concepts in more depth.

He added that giving students early exposure to technology will prepare them for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Reflecting on the session, Ajayi said, ‘I am inspired by how much the students learned and how interested they were. Their curiosity and energy were amazing, and it reminds me why I want to do more events like this.’

Ajayi further stated that the workshop which also held to inspire and motivate the students was organised with the support of an IT firm, Veldarr.

‘Technology is part of every industry today. If young people start learning now, they’ll be ready to take on the future with confidence.’

In their separate remarks, teachers at the event praised the convener of the workshop for making technology accessible and exciting for the students.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu about the movement of some opposition governors to the ruling party soon.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele warned Tinubu to be careful of some of these opposition governors who may join APC because not all of them will support him, as some will act as his enemies even within his party.

The cleric mentioned governors of Taraba, Zamfara, Enugu and Kano, explaining that while some have good intentions for him, some of them, including those that have already decamped, don’t have his best interest at heart.

‘About four opposition governors will decamp to the APC, including Taraba, Kano, Zamfara, and Enugu, but not all of them will work for the president. They have an agreement to seal Mr President’s second ambition and work fantastically for him, but not all of them will stick to the agreement.’

The prophet made it known that some of them are decamping to have the blessings of the president for their ambition.

‘Some will only move to receive the blessings of Mr President, so the issue of who becomes who will be a very serious matter.’

Primate Ayodele warned President Tinubu to personally review some of the decampees properly to identify those who are enemies. He also stated that some in the APC are not praying for the victory of the president.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Saturday, met with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political actors from Rivers State in Port Harcourt.

The meeting comes two weeks after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lifted the state of emergency imposed in the oil-rich state, following months of political tension between the FCT Minister and the Governor over perceived control of the state’s political structure.

The development is widely seen as a sign of restored peace and unity, marking what many observers describe as a major political truce in the state.

In a brief statement sent to newsmen on Sunday by Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, it was said, ‘Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and other leaders in a meeting in Port Harcourt yesterday.

‘The Political Family is fully united.’

Trying to figure out if someone is interested in you can be confusing and challenging, especially with girls, who sometimes give mixed signals.

Human emotions are complex, and people may send signals without even realising it. Still, in relationships, there are often clear behavioural cues that reveal hidden feelings.

For many, recognising these subtle hints can save time, prevent miscommunication, and even open the door to meaningful connections. That is why paying attention to certain signs that a girl likes you can make all the difference.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at six common signals that may suggest genuine interest.

1. She maintains eye contact and smiles often

Eye contact is one of the strongest non-verbal ways people show attraction. When a girl likes someone, she often holds steady eye contact and pairs it with genuine smiles that go beyond politeness.

Unlike casual glances, these moments feel intentional, sometimes lingering longer than normal, as if to draw you into her world.

2. She makes time for you even when busy

Life is demanding, and everyone seems busy, but when a girl deliberately makes space for you in her schedule, it is rarely by chance. Whether she replies to your messages quickly, agrees to meet on hectic days, or finds small excuses to check in, it shows she values your presence. Making time is one of the clearest signs a girl likes you because it means she sees you as a priority.

3. She engages in playful teasing or gentle touches

Teasing and light physical contact often signal attraction rather than mere friendship. A girl who likes you might touch your arm during conversations, playfully nudge you, or lean closer when speaking.

These behaviours are subtle but deliberate ways of creating closeness. While comfort levels vary, repeated patterns of such behaviour strongly suggest emotional interest.

4. She remembers little details about you

Paying attention to the things you say, even in passing, is a big sign of care. If she recalls your favourite food, the name of your childhood pet, or something you mentioned weeks ago, it shows she is not only listening but also values what she learns about you. Remembering small details goes beyond friendliness; it is one of the surest signs a girl likes you.

5. She shows curiosity about your personal life

Interest reveals itself in questions. If she often asks about your family, passions, dreams, or even how your day is going, it is because she genuinely wants to know you better.

This kind of curiosity goes past surface-level chat and leads to meaningful conversation. When a girl invests in understanding who you are, it is one of the most obvious signs she likes you.

6. She gets a little jealous or protective

A hint of jealousy, when subtle, can be a natural sign of attraction. If she seems uneasy when you mention another girl or makes extra effort to capture your attention in such moments, it may reveal her deeper feelings.

While this should not be confused with unhealthy possessiveness, small flashes of protectiveness often indicate emotional investment.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age; yet, many women don’t realise they have it until symptoms become severe or they struggle with fertility. Detecting PCOS early makes it easier to manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.

In this article, Tribune Online examines seven early signs of PCOS every woman should watch out for:

1. Irregular or Missed Periods

One of the most common warning signs of PCOS is having fewer than nine periods a year – very heavy periods, or none at all. Irregular cycles are usually caused by hormonal imbalances that disrupt ovulation.

2. Excess Hair Growth

Many women with PCOS experience hirsutism, unwanted hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, or back. This happens because the body produces higher levels of androgens (male hormones).

3. Persistent Acne

Acne that doesn’t go away with regular treatment, especially on the jawline, chest, or back, can be a red flag. The excess androgens associated with PCOS increase oil production in the skin, leading to breakouts.

4. Unexplained Weight Gain

Women with PCOS often struggle with weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. This is linked to insulin resistance, a common feature of the condition.

5. Thinning Hair or Hair Loss

While some women notice excess hair growth, others experience hair thinning or even male-pattern baldness. This is another effect of elevated androgen levels.

6. Dark Patches on the Skin

PCOS can cause dark, velvety patches on areas like the neck, underarms, or groin. This condition, known as acanthosis nigricans, is often linked to insulin resistance.

7. Difficulty Getting Pregnant

Because PCOS interferes with regular ovulation, many women find it harder to conceive. In fact, PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women.

PCOS can be overwhelming, but early detection and lifestyle changes can make a big difference. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right care, many women with PCOS go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Leading voices will reimagine African and Afro-diasporic archives as dynamic, contested, and future-shaping spaces at the Re:assemblages symposium in November.

THE Re:assemblages Symposium, a landmark gathering of artists, archivists, curators, publishers, and cultural practitioners, will take place on November 4 and 5 at Alliance Française, Ikoyi, during Lagos Art Week 2025.

Organised by the Guest Artists Space (G.A.S.) Foundation and the Yinka Shonibare Foundation (Y.S.F.), the symposium will bring together leading voices to collectively reimagine African and Afro-diasporic archives as dynamic, contested, and future-shaping spaces.

The event also marks the launch of the second phase of Re:assemblages (2025-26), a two-year programme aiming to reimagine the role of archives in shaping African and global art histories.

The organisers have designed the symposium to be an interactive experience, with opportunities for dialogue and exchange. They explained in a statement that it was developed in response to the Picton Archive-a collection of rare African-published journals, magazines, and manuscripts held at G.A.S.-the programme reframes archives not as static repositories, but as dynamic infrastructures for research, cultural production, and exchange.

They said that a second symposium, scheduled for autumn 2026, ‘will extend these conversations by developing a toolkit of adaptive archival practices.’

The seminar will unfold across four conceptual strands: Ecotones, The Short Century, Annotations, and The Living Archive, each offering unique insights and perspectives.

‘Ecotones trace transitional zones where ecologies, communities, and knowledge systems intersect. The symposium explores these intersections through presentations and workshops that envision Afro-ecotones across the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.

‘The Short Century revisits 1945-1994 as a catalytic era of African independence and cultural production, revisiting the seminal exhibition on The Short Century: Independence and Liberation Movements in Africa, 1945-1994 curated by OkwuiEwenzor.

‘Annotations probe margins, silences, and archival absences through experimental literary and Performative strategies, bringing to light hidden narratives and alternative epistemologies.

‘The Living Archive reimagines archives and libraries as active, artist-led, community-centred sites of care, restitution, and creative transformation. Through performances, readings, panels, and workshops, the symposium asks how archives can be regenerated as socially and politically vital spaces.’

The symposium will also serve as the inaugural public gathering of the African Arts Libraries Lab (AAL Lab), a new network convened by G.A.S. and Y.S.F. that unites a dynamic group of African arts libraries and publishers across cities, including Lagos, Dakar, Marrakesh, Cairo, Nairobi, Cape Town, and Limbe.

Through its Affiliate Network, the Lab engages with global institutions that hold significant African and Afro-Diasporic collections. Each AAL Lab public convening will culminate in a micro-publication documenting its outcomes and contributing to the Archive Futures Repository. This dynamic digital resource advances new, African-led models of archival stewardship and activation.

Commenting, Yinka Shonibare, founder of G.A.S. and Y.S.F., said: ‘The inaugural Re: assemblages Symposium in Lagos is a vital step toward building African-led frameworks for the future of archives. These collections are not relics of the past but living spaces that continue to shape our shared histories and futures.’

Symposium curator Naima Hassan added: ‘The symposium acknowledges the urgency of engaging African and Afro-diasporic art archives spanning text, image, oral tradition, and performance and asks: what encounters arise within these spaces, and how might they transform our understanding of the archive itself?’

Samantha Russell coordinates the symposium with thematic contributions from Maryam Kazeem, Ann Marie Peña, and Jonn Gale.

The Terra Foundation for American Art, Afreximbank’s Art Program, The Osahon Okunbo Foundation (TOOF), Bank of America, and Bookcraft Africa are supporters of the Re: assemblages Symposium, which opens with a roundtable on ‘How will we share this earth?’ on November 4.

MisslaLibsekal, Janine Francois, Ala Praxis, and Eve Oishi will explore Afro-Ecotones across oceans, beginning with a site-specific reading of Lagos’ lagoon as an ecotonal site of ecological care, memory, and resistance at the session.

The first panel discussion, ‘Destabilising the Archive’ featuring Ore Disu of the Museum of West African Arts, Benin, Samba Yonga of Women’s History Museum of Zambia and Amanda Maples of the New Orleans Museum of Art, will rethink restitution as a process, positioning archives as porous, unstable, and alive.

The second panel, ‘The Living Archive: Propositions for Collections into the Future’, will see Ann Marie Peña chairing a conversation with Michelle Jacques, Azu Nwagbogu and Jago Cooper on how artists and institutions activate archives as participatory, socially responsive spaces.

The day’s final panel, ‘Rematriating the Archive’, will feature Cheryl Finley leading a discussion with Sylvia Arthur, Aisha Augie, and Jareh Das on women-led strategies for regenerating archives through oral traditions, FESTAC ’77, and the legacy of Ladi Kwali.

A screening of Olukemi Lijadu’s ‘Sister, Sister’, a moving portrait of the Lijadu Sisters, reimagining music, memory, and devotion as a living archive, will wrap up activities on the first day.

The second day promises to be just as enjoyable as the first. Highlights include ‘Annotations in Four Acts’, which features Naima Hassan, Maryam Kazeem, Robyn Simpson, and Ufuoma Ogbemudje reading from a new publication on FESTAC ’77 and pan-African festivals, tracing archival fragments and their afterlives.

There will also be a discussion on ‘Curatorial History and African Archives’ where Serubiri Moses, Tumelo Mosaka, and Kemi Ilesanmi highlight the transformative role of African curators, tracing strategies of mobility, mentorship, and institution building across global art networks.

Every October 5, the world marks World Teachers’ Day. This is a moment to appreciate those who nurture dreams and build the foundation of every nation’s progress.

In Nigeria, teachers do more than teach. They inspire, improvise, and persevere, often in conditions that would break many others. They are the silent builders of tomorrow’s leaders.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at five reasons why Nigerian teachers need to be celebrated today.

1. Teachers Find Creative Ways to Teach Even With Limited Resources

Many Nigerian schools, especially in rural or underprivileged areas, face shortages of textbooks, laboratory equipment, and even stable electricity. Yet, many teachers continue to find creative ways to make learning possible.

They draw diagrams on chalkboards, reuse materials, and turn everyday objects into teaching aids. Many teachers improvise learning tools from bottle caps, sticks, and recycled paper to help pupils understand complex subjects.

This level of creativity keeps classrooms alive and ensures that learning continues, even when resources are scarce.

2. They Build Character, Not Just Careers

Beyond academics, teachers shape the values, discipline, and confidence of their students.

They are often the first to notice a struggling child, offer guidance, or encourage a shy student to speak up. In communities where mentorship is limited, teachers step in to fill that role, helping young people believe in themselves and their dreams.

Their influence extends far beyond the classroom. It ripples into society through every student whose life they have touched.

3. They Are Role Models of Dedication

Despite delayed and low income salaries, heavy workloads, and difficult working conditions, Nigerian teachers remain steadfast. Many still arrive early, conduct extra lessons, and mentor students long after school hours.

Their dedication is remarkable. It takes deep passion to keep teaching in the face of neglect or frustration. Yet they do it, not for applause, but because they understand the power of education to change lives.

This determination to teach, inspire, and persevere makes them true heroes in Nigeria’s development story.

4. They Are Innovators Shaping the Future

From digital classrooms to creative learning projects, Nigerian teachers are embracing innovation like never before.

One shining example is Olasunkanmi Opeifa, an English teacher from Abuja, who gained international recognition after being shortlisted among the Top 10 Finalists for the Global Teacher Prize. He used technology and storytelling to make English lessons engaging and fun.

Across the country, teachers are now integrating digital tools into their lessons, using WhatsApp for assignments, virtual quizzes, and interactive teaching methods. Nigerian teachers are not just adapting to a changing world; they are leading the transformation.

5. They Leave Lasting Legacies

Every great Nigerian success story begins with a teacher. From doctors and journalists to engineers, governors, and innovators, many leaders often recall one teacher who believed in them when no one else did.

Teachers may not get the loudest applause or the biggest paycheques, but their legacy endures through generations. They plant seeds that grow long after the school bell stops ringing.

Their work may seem ordinary, but its impact is extraordinary – shaping minds, building futures, and sustaining the hope of a better Nigeria.

In the wake of the tragic boat mishap on River Niger that claimed over 100 lives in Ibaji, Kogi State, the community has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to construct a modern market and rehabilitate the Idah-Ibaji-Anambra federal highway.

The incident occurred when a large wooden boat transporting traders from Ibaji to the Ilushi market in Edo State capsized, resulting in multiple fatalities.

In a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja on Saturday, the Coterie of Ibaji Youths of Nigeria (COIYN) made a passionate appeal to President Tinubu to approve the establishment of a modern farm produce market in Ibaji and the reconstruction of the dilapidated Idah-Ibaji-Otuocha highway.

The group attributed the tragedy to the absence of critical infrastructure in Ibaji, including a standard market and accessible roads, which compel residents to rely on dangerous waterways to transport their farm produce.

The statement, jointly signed by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Tony Edike, and the National Coordinator, Jerry Nwuchola, lamented the prolonged neglect of Ibaji Local Government Area and called for urgent federal intervention.

The group appealed for the construction of a centrally located, functional market that would reduce the risks faced by traders travelling long distances across perilous rivers to sell their goods.

‘Despite being a major producer of rice, yams, cassava, fish, and vegetables, Ibaji lacks electricity, asphalted roads, good schools, and health facilities, forcing people to travel dangerously by overcrowded boats to sell produce. We hereby passionately appeal to the government to construct a centrally located large market in Ibaji LGA, worthy of the produce Ibaji contributes to the national economy,’ the statement read.

The COIYN also called on the President to revive the abandoned Idah-Ibaji-Otuocha Federal Highway project, noting that the road would shorten travel time between Anambra and Abuja while enhancing economic activity in the region.

According to the group, the construction of a modern market and the rehabilitation of the highway would help prevent future tragedies, promote trade, and generate employment opportunities for the people.

‘Your Excellency Sir, we acknowledge your commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda. Hope is our lifeline, not just a slogan. Today, we hold onto it tightly. We urge you, as the father of our great nation, to immortalize the innocent souls lost in this latest tragedy by ensuring that such bloodshed is never repeated due to infrastructural neglect,’ the group added.

President Tinubu had earlier expressed condolences to the government and people of Kogi State over the incident, describing it as ‘shocking and unfortunate.’

The COIYN expressed optimism that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda would extend to the people of Ibaji, ending decades of neglect and infrastructural decay.

The group maintained that the development of a modern market and reconstruction of the highway would reflect the President’s commitment to responsive and compassionate leadership.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has declared that the era of branding Nigeria as the ‘most corrupt country’ in the world has come to an end.

The First Lady made the remark during her official working visit to Gombe State, where she commissioned several health facilities, including the newly established Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Kumo.

She urged Nigerians to refrain from running down the country’s image, noting that the world now views Nigeria as a nation of opportunity and rising global relevance, owing to the reforms of the current administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

During the visit, Remi Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Akko in his palace, stressing that ‘the era when Nigeria was branded the most corrupt country is over.’

According to her, the international perception of Nigeria is changing positively, and citizens must begin to show national pride by speaking well of their country.

The First Lady stated, ‘Calling on us as Nigerians, stop badmouthing your nation. Gone are the days when they say Nigeria is the most corrupt country. You won’t hear that again.’

‘Even when I go abroad, when they hear you’re from Nigeria, everybody’s interested. They want to come to Nigeria. Nigeria is the next destination,’ she added.

She commended the natural beauty of Gombe State, describing its landscape as comparable to that of the English countryside.

According to her, ‘We have to be proud. Your landscape is beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like that. You see that in the London countryside, but I’m seeing it here in Gombe and in other states too.’

Remi Tinubu linked her call for national pride to the administration’s ongoing reforms in security, education, and grassroots development, noting that traditional and religious leaders play vital roles in shaping citizens’ attitudes.

She explained that her work as First Lady is driven by a desire to leave Nigeria better than she met it after her husband’s tenure.

She stressed, ‘I’m 65 years old now, I pray I live long. But I’m working so hard so that when my husband finishes his tenure, me too I can walk around safely. That is what drives me.’

The First Lady urged Nigerians to be proud of the country’s progress and to support the present administration as it continues its efforts to restore Nigeria’s lost glory and strengthen its standing in the comity of nations.