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In every generation, young people have always been painted with bold colors-sometimes rebellious, sometimes revolutionary, but always impossible to ignore. Today’s youth culture is not just a passing phase; it is a force reshaping values, communication, and identity in ways older generations are only beginning to understand.

From TikTok trends to street fashion, from activism on social media to the creative redefinition of music, youth culture is setting the pace of global conversations. It is easy to dismiss these shifts as ‘just vibes,’ but in reality, what we are witnessing is the solidification of a cultural power bloc that dictates politics, consumer habits, and even morality.

Older generations often accuse young people of being distracted, unserious, or glued to their screens. But what is overlooked is the creativity embedded in that very digital presence. A viral dance trend may look trivial, but beneath it is a new language of global connection. A single tweet can mobilise thousands for protests, donations, or social change. The same tools that critics call ‘distractions’ are, in fact, instruments of innovation.

The youth are not merely consumers of culture-they are producers. Fashion houses, music labels, and even political campaigns have realised they cannot thrive without appealing to young audiences. The slang that dominates advertisements, the memes that fuel marketing, and the styles walking international runways all originate from youthful creativity. The world borrows from youth, yet ironically, youth are still told to ‘grow up.’ But youth culture is not only about entertainment. It is also about resistance. Across the world, young voices are leading conversations on climate change, gender equality, and mental health awareness. They are bold enough to question traditions, yet flexible enough to remix them into something fresh. They are redefining respect, not as blind obedience to age, but as mutual recognition of humanity.

The danger, however, lies in how quickly youth culture is misunderstood or exploited. Commercial industries capitalise on it without acknowledging its creators. Governments sometimes suppress it when it becomes too politically charged. Even within families, youthful expression is often mistaken for disrespect. To treat youth culture this way is to silence the very voices shaping the future.

The truth is simple: youth culture is not the enemy of tradition, nor is it a threat to society. It is the evolution of identity, the heartbeat of progress, and the living proof that society is never stagnant. To dismiss it is to dismiss the future.

It is time for parents, leaders, and institutions to stop asking, ‘What is wrong with young people today?’ and start asking, ‘What can we learn from them?’ Because whether through music, media, activism, or fashion, youth culture has already proven one thing-it is here to stay, and it speaks louder than ever before.

The Adamawa State Government has announced plans to establish a Free Trade Zone and an Industrial Park as part of efforts to boost investment, create jobs, and drive economic growth.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri approved the initiatives through the Adamawa State Investment Promotion Agency (ADIPA). The government also disclosed that preparations are underway for the maiden Adamawa Investment Summit, which will serve as a platform to showcase the state’s economic potential to local and international investors.

Speaking on the development, the Executive Secretary of ADIPA, Halilu Hammawa, said the agency is committed to transforming Adamawa into an investment hub.

‘Our vision is clear and ambitious. Over the next few years, we aim to attract at least 20 new investment projects, mobilize $1 billion in capital inflows, and create 2,500 direct jobs,’ Hammawa said.

He listed agribusiness, livestock, renewable energy, solid minerals, and industrial development as priority sectors for the government, stressing that Adamawa is ready to move ‘from potential to prosperity.’

The government believes the projects, alongside the upcoming investment summit, will reposition Adamawa as a leading destination for trade and industrial activities in Nigeria’s Northeast.

Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, GCON, is a rare pillar of integrity in Nigeria’s governance, a leader whose resolute honesty and patriotism forge a compelling vision for national progress. As Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, he embodies the essence of the blind men and the elephant parable-each perspective distinct, yet all converging on the undeniable truth of his dedication to Nigeria’s unity and prosperity.

My encounters with him reveal a man who leads with quiet conviction; his actions reflect a commitment that prioritises the nation’s future over personal acclaim. Abbas meticulously crafts Nigeria’s economic trajectory, ensuring the budget aligns with the country’s aspirations, meets fiscal demands, addresses critical needs like infrastructure and healthcare, and builds a foundation for a thriving tomorrow.

His Legislative Agenda drives economic diversification, education reform, and transparent governance, amplified by innovations that invite public scrutiny. Through peace-building initiatives and robust oversight, Abbas delivers tangible progress-roads, schools, and opportunities-transforming communities and proving that principled leadership can inspire a nation toward a shared, prosperous future.

Rt. Hon. Abbas represents many shared truths, first as a leader patriotically committed to our progress as a nation and will never compromise it for any reason. This commitment is demonstrated by guided actions, deeply rooted in his love for this country and a desire to see it prosper. He has shown steadfast dedication to the nation’s progress, working tirelessly to ensure that the country’s interests are protected and advanced.

A man of exemplary honesty and transparency, Speaker Abbas values truth, preferring to let his actions speak for themselves rather than seeking attention. This approach has earned him the respect of his colleagues and the public. Often noted for being straightforward to the core, Rt. Hon. Abbas is known for his uncompromising approach to governance. He is a man of his word, and his commitment to honesty and integrity is evident in all his dealings.An indisputably visionary leader and a model pacesetter, Rt. Hon. Abbas, both as Speaker and as a citizen, displays characteristics rooted in honesty and a singular commitment to the peace and advancement of the country.

As Speaker, his clear vision for Nigeria’s development, focusing on legislative excellence, has been instrumental in sponsoring numerous bills that aim to improve the lives of Nigerians, including those related to education, healthcare, and economic development, while his determination to promote constituency development has redefined the importance of constituency projects, ensuring government presence is felt in various communities across the country and positively changing narratives, resonating his steadfast commitment to peace, national development, and the promotion of unity and understanding among Nigerians.

The House of Representatives, under the effective watch of Rt. Hon. Abbas, bears glowing testimonies of his capacity, as it has outlined a model Legislative Agenda focused on driving progress, prosperity, and inclusivity across Nigeria. The agenda’s key mandates, both unprecedented and innovative, prioritise economic empowerment and diversification, incentivising investments in non-oil sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy to reduce dependence on oil exports and create jobs; infrastructure development to improve connectivity and economic opportunities; and education and human capital development to drive innovation and economic growth.

Other priorities include Healthcare for All, to improve access to quality healthcare services, and transparent Governance and Accountability, to ensure effective use of public resources, alongside security and safety measures to protect persons and properties. Indeed, these ambitious goals have met significant progress, though not without surmountable challenges, confronted with resilience, pragmatism, and patriotism.

For instance, Rt. Hon. Abbas has prioritised accountability and effective oversight, strengthening the audit framework to prevent mismanagement and corruption and ensuring the Assembly’s independence in checking the executive arm of government. With innovative initiatives like the Legislative Agenda Promise Tracker, the Assembly’s progress can be actively monitored, promoting transparency and accountability in governance, setting a robust stage for achieving the laudable goals of the House of Representatives.

Rt. Hon. Tajudeen’s drive to strengthen the legislative process and ensure effective law-making, coupled with strong advocacy for constituents’ voices, has positively impacted national development, contributing to the country’s growth through informed decision-making. As a citizen, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen demonstrates ingrained qualities like patriotism and honesty, shaping the lives of those around him and impacting society positively.

His deep affection and loyalty to the nation, its people, and institutions are reflected through prioritising the nation’s well-being and prosperity, alongside a strong sense of transparency, responsibility, and accountability. A man of honest disposition, Rt. Hon. Abbas exhibits a strong moral code and truthfulness in words and actions, building trust and credibility, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose, and promoting national unity and cohesion, propelling the nation toward more effective and responsible governance where equality, justice, national progress, and general well-being are non-negotiable.

Today, political leaders are more accountable, citizens’ quality of life is improving with better access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, and an environment of equality, justice, and human rights prevails. Nigerians can now work toward a common goal of national development and prosperity, encouraging active participation in the democratic process, all because the visions of a Parliamentary Speaker and the citizens align. Through Speaker Abbas’s leadership and promotion of meditative roles, there is practical evidence of peace and advancement.

Legislative interventions have established programs for dialogue and mediation, with communities organised to promote unity and understanding among diverse groups, and educational programs teaching peace-building, tolerance, and conflict resolution skills. These efforts have led to national advancements, with funds, energy, and time, once spent on insecurity, now invested in infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and public transportation to improve connectivity and economic opportunities, as well as entrepreneurship, job creation, and skills training programs to boost economic growth and reduce poverty, alongside access to quality healthcare, education, and social welfare programs improving citizens’ well-being.

Indeed, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas is a shining example of honesty and patriotism in public life. As Speaker, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the progress and development of our nation. His leadership style is characterised by transparency, inclusivity, and a strong sense of responsibility. Rt. Hon. Abbas’s legacy as a leader is built on his honesty, integrity, and dedication to public service. His contributions to the nation’s development will be remembered by generations to come. As a role model, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas inspires others to emulate his values and principles, ensuring a brighter future for all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, religion, or creed.

Three students of the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC), Mamudo, Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State, have received cash and laptops for their feat at an international competition.

The students distinguished themselves at the global TeenEagle competition held at the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom.

The gifts were given by a diplomat, lawyer, and philanthropist, Kashim Musa Tumsah.

In addition, cash tokens were presented to the principal, Habibullah Jogi, English teacher Adamu Mukhtar, and Olympiad coach Mohammed Umar, in recognition of their efforts and contributions. The donation was announced on Monday at NTIC, where Tumsah was represented by Kaka Ahmad Abubakar, a retired educationist and former principal at the Government Girls College Yobe.

According to Abubakar, the gesture reflects Tumsah’s longstanding commitment to supporting young people in education, innovation, and global competitiveness.

‘Barrister Tumsah made this donation not only to celebrate the students’ outstanding success on the world stage but also to encourage them and others to aim higher,’ Abubakar said. ‘He believes that with the right encouragement, Nigerian students can stand shoulder to shoulder with their counterparts anywhere in the world.’

The Principal of NTIC Mamudo, Mr. Habibullah Jogi, commended Tumsah for the intervention, describing it as a morale booster for the school community and a reflection of his passion for human capital development.

The beneficiaries of the donation, 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullahi Aminu, 15-year-old Rukayya Muhammad Fema, and Hadiza Kashim Kalli, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the philanthropist.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Nafisa said the recognition had further inspired them to continue working hard in their academic pursuits.

At the competition, Nafisa was named Overall Best in English Language Skills, while Rukayya emerged as Overall Best in Debate. Hadiza was honoured with the Outstanding Talent Award (Gold Medal).

The three students represented NTIC Yobe at the TeenEagle International Competition, an annual event that brings together some of the brightest young minds from across the globe to test their skills in English language, creativity, and problem-solving.

This year’s edition was held from July 27 to August 3 at the University of Surrey, United Kingdom, and featured over 900 students from 46 countries.

The Federal Government says it got approximately N250bn in funding for the development of modern light rail systems in Kaduna and Kano States.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the disclosure yesterday at the World Press Conference in Abuja, where he explained that N150bn has been allocated for Kano, while Kaduna will receive N100bn.

He stressed the administration’s commitment to advancing critical infrastructure development at the sub-national level.

‘The Federal Government is actively going further to support various subnational infrastructure projects, for instance, the light rail projects in Kano and Kaduna States, for which funding to the tune of N150 billion and N100 billion, respectively, has been secured,’ he said. The minister also pointed to broader efforts to strengthen governance at the grassroots, noting that local government areas were being fiscally reintegrated to serve as catalysts for growth and development.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu was determined to entrench financial autonomy for local governments, thereby making them more effective in service delivery, community engagement, and the provision of essential infrastructure.

Idris further explained that state governments were now receiving significantly higher revenue allocations from the federation account, a development made possible by the removal of the oil subsidy and other fiscal reforms.

This, he said, had positioned subnational governments to do more with fewer constraints and less reliance on debt, creating an opportunity to focus resources on capital projects that directly impact the lives of citizens.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has declared unconstitutional the shadow government proposed by the Prof. Pat Utomi-led Big Tent Movement.

Justice James Omotosho, delivering judgement on Monday, ruled that the initiative was alien to Nigeria’s presidential system of government and void under the 1999 Constitution.

‘The Nigerian Constitution makes no room for a shadow government. Therefore, any participation in any government which is unknown to law will be struck down by this court. I hereby declare the formation as void,’ the judge held.

The judge also restrained members of the movement’s Good Governance portfolio and council of economic advisers, including Dele Farotimi, Oghene Momoh, Cheta Nwanze, Daniel Ikuonobe, Halima Ahmed, David Okonkwo and Obi Ajuga, from operating the structure. Efforts by Daily Trust to obtain a reaction from Nana Kazaure, the group’s Shadow Minister for Communication and Public Orientation, proved unsuccessful as she did not respond to calls or messages.

The Department of State Services (DSS), which initiated the suit, argued that sections 1(1), 1(2) and 14(2)(a) of the Constitution uphold the supremacy of the constitution and sovereignty of the people, and that all governmental authority must derive from law.

The DSS had sought, among other reliefs, ‘an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendant, his agents and associates from taking any steps towards establishing or operating a ‘shadow government’, ‘shadow cabinet’, or any similar entity not recognised by the Constitution.’

To guide the court, eminent legal scholars were invited as amici curiae, including Prof. Ademola Popoola of Obafemi Awolowo University; Prof. Uchefula Chukwumaeze, Vice Chancellor of Imo State University; former NBA president Yakubu Maikyau (SAN); Joseph Daudu (SAN); Joe Gadzama (SAN); Prof. Dakas Dakas (SAN); and Miannaya Essien (SAN).

The shadow government, formally launched by Utomi on May 5, was designed to function like a shadow cabinet common in parliamentary systems. It assigned portfolios to opposition figures, professionals and activists to scrutinise government policies and propose alternatives.

At its unveiling, Utomi described the project as a ‘national emergency response’ aimed at deepening democracy beyond periodic elections. He argued it would serve as an alternative think-tank to highlight policy failures and mobilise citizens to demand accountability.

Lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi was named to head the Ombudsman and Good Governance desk, while Cheta Nwanze, Halima Ahmed, Daniel Ikuonobe and others were given shadow roles. Kazaure, who also serves as Director of Strategic Communication for the Obidient Movement, was appointed Shadow Minister for Communication.

The initiative immediately sparked controversy. Critics maintained that Nigeria’s presidential system does not recognise such arrangements. The DSS warned that the body could confuse citizens, undermine state authority and embolden separatist groups.

On May 13, 2025, the DSS filed suit FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025 at the Federal High Court, urging the court to declare the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government (BTCSG) unconstitutional.

In June, Utomi, through his lawyers, opposed the suit, arguing that the shadow government was merely an exercise of citizens’ rights to free speech, free association and political participation. He accused the DSS of attempting to criminalise civic activism and silence dissent.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has praised Nigerians for what he described as ‘uncommon patience, endurance, and resilience despite living under suffocating socio-economic and security conditions.’

In his Independence Day message to Nigerians, the opposition leader alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration had abandoned Nigerians to their fate.

Atiku lamented that Nigerians were enduring pains from ‘raging insecurity, rising food scarcity, mass unemployment, and a dangerous climate of hopelessness all ‘compounded by the insensitivity of the APC-led administration’.

‘It is tragic that in a country blessed with immense human and material resources, millions of our people have been reduced to refugees and beggars in their fatherland. Every responsible government holds the welfare and security of its citizens as supreme.

‘But what we have today is an administration that has abandoned its people. Hunger is killing Nigerians, bandits are massacring communities, yet President Bola Tinubu and his cabinet stand by, unmoved and uncaring.’

While calling on citizens not to lose faith, Atiku reminded Nigerians that 2027 provides a clear opportunity to reject bad leadership and reclaim the promise of a better tomorrow.

‘The beauty of democracy lies in the power of the ballot. Oppressed and battered as our people may feel today, they will have the chance to sweep away this inept government at the next polls. That is the power no cabal can take away from the people.’ He said.

Atiku said, At 65, Nigeria remains a giant moving painfully slow on feet of clay – a direct result of decades of poor leadership and wasteful governance.

He however, urged Nigerians to keep hope alive, insisting that with the right leadership, the country can still rise from the ashes of failed governance to reclaim its rightful place among the comity of nations

The opposition leader also wished Nigerians a happy 65th Independence Day anniversary celebration.

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have killed two people and burnt down the palace of the District Head of Kirawa town of Gwoza LGA of Borno State.

Daily Trust gathered that the incident happened when the terrorists infiltrated the community bordering Cameroon on Monday night.

‘They killed two civilians, and another one was abducted by the assailants. Many people have fled to Cameroon, for fear of another attack. The insurgents also burnt other buildings in the community.’ ‘In fact, we are all afraid that the town is no longer secure because the Cameroonian soldiers protecting us have left,’ said a source identified simply as Ibrahim.

Senator Mohammed Ndume, (APC, Borno South) confirmed the attack, saying the community, which resettled recently, have witnessed renewed attacks.

‘The attacks on Kirawa and other communities have become a source of concern. Many resilient IDPs, supported by Governor Zulum, have returned to their ancestral homes,’ he said.

He commended the efforts of Nigerian troops in the fight against insurgency, and appealed for establishment of military ‘platoons’ in vulnerable communities.

He also called on the federal government to fortify the military with drones and attack helicopters to reinforce the attack pattern of the military.

The attack came barely three days after the insurgents ambushed the civilian JTF members escorting passengers on Kirawa -Pulka road, killed one and set ablaze six commercial vehicles.

Last month, a military base was dislodged by the insurgents in the area, killing four soldiers under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and abducted a teenage girl.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has warned newly inaugurated Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) that the rank is only a privilege that can be withdrawn at any time if it is abused.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of 57 new SANs and the opening of the new legal year 2025/-2026 on Monday, Justice Kekere-Ekun said their achievement signifies not only professional excellence but also a commitment to ethical conduct and the upholding of the integrity of the legal profession.

‘The conferment of this rank is a rigorous process, reflecting the high expectations placed upon those who bear the title,’ he said.

‘It signifies not only professional excellence but also a commitment to ethical conduct and the upholding of the integrity of the legal profession. ‘You have all actively participated in the pre-swearing-in induction programme organized by the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), where invaluable insights were shared with you.

‘I urge you to uphold and internalize those principles, so that you may carry this rank with the utmost dignity, grace, and sense of responsibility it demands.

‘Let me take a moment to reiterate a caution I delivered at last year’s ceremony. The rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is a privilege, not a right. The privilege can, and indeed will, be withdrawn in appropriate circumstances where it is abused.

‘I commend the efforts of the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee in sustaining the standards and integrity of the processes leading to the final selection of successful applicants.’

She said the judiciary remains steadfast in its constitutional role of dispensing justice fairly and impartially, adding that they will continue to work tirelessly to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial process, uphold the rule of law, and protect the rights and freedoms of all Nigerians.

In his remarks, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), bemoaned the adverse ratings and negative perception indexes of the judiciary due to low public confidence in the judiciary arising from perceptions of undue influence, inconsistent rulings, and delays that frustrate justice, and allegations of corruption.

He recalled the Supreme Court’s decisions that have strengthened the country’s judiciary, including the 15th November 2024 matter of Attorney-General, Kogi State V Attorney-General of the Federation, which affirmed the constitutionality of the establishment laws and prosecutorial powers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit.

According to him, another major decision was the 22nd November 2024 judgment in the Attorney-General, Lagos State V Attorney-General of the Federation, which nullified the National Lottery Act, establishing that the National Assembly lacks the constitutional power to legislate on lotteries, which is a residual matter for the state houses of assembly.

A new scholarship initiative has been introduced in Kwara State to provide sustained educational support for orphans and vulnerable children.

The programme is designed to cover school fees, essential learning materials, and holiday classes, giving beneficiaries the resources to focus on their studies.

The scheme christened as the Mai Nasara Education Support Foundation, currently sponsors ten students on full scholarships from junior secondary school through university across a variety of professional courses.

In addition, 25 students from both public and private schools are receiving guidance under the initiative, which combines academic mentoring with moral support.

Nineteen of the beneficiaries are girls.

Speaking at a press conference during the unveiling in Il?rin, founder of the initiative and Dan Masani Gwanabe, Ahmad Muhammad, explained that the aim was to respond to the persistent challenges in the education sector and to provide opportunities for children who might otherwise be excluded due to financial constraints.

He said the move reflected a targeted effort to increase access to education for the girl child and address gaps in school attendance.

Muhammad said the programme was inspired by the progress made in Kwara State’s education sector in recent years and by the need to complement government efforts.

He emphasized that the foundation aims not only to support academic growth but also to nurture responsible and socially aware young adults who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

According to him ‘The foundation has set a long-term target of N100 million to expand the reach of the scholarship programme.

He said this funding will enable the foundation to sustain support for existing students while increasing the number of beneficiaries and extending the programme to other underserved communities across the state.

He said the ultimate goal is to produce a generation of professionals and community leaders who have the skills, knowledge, and moral grounding to drive development in Kwara and beyond.

The initiative, he added, also includes measures to strengthen the students’ readiness for national examinations and professional challenges.