Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

The journey of the prestigious TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy began in earnest with Lagos as the first stop of the 2025 Trophy Tour yesterday , October 29th, with pomp and ceremony.

In partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), TotalEnergies launched the continental tour to share the excitement with stakeholders and fans ahead of the 35th edition of the biennial competition holding in Morocco between December 21 and January 18, 2026.

The initiative will see the iconic trophy on tour of five African countries including Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco-allowing millions of fans to connect with the symbol of African football glory.

Speaking at the Lagos flag-off, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samba Seye, expressed pride in Nigeria’s role as the starting point of the tour, affirming the company’s deep-rooted commitment to African football.

‘We are delighted to host the first stage of the Trophy Tour here in Lagos, Nigeria and kick off the 2025 tournament. Being the partner of African football is a great source of pride. Football is a universal, federating sport that is synonymous with joy, enthusiasm and, of course, energy,’ he said.

Similarly, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar, General Manager, Retail and Cards, TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, the enduring spirit of African excellence by confirming the extension of the partnership between TotalEnergies and CAF till 2028.

‘Our partnership with the Confederation of African Football has been a cornerstone of how we engage with communities across Africa,’ Umar said. ‘This partnership, which has now been extended to 2028, goes beyond sponsorship – it is a shared vision built on unity, empowerment, and the celebration of African excellence through sport.’

He further stated that football is not just about the competition but the unity and shared goal that drives the sport.

He added: ‘Football is not just about competition, it’s about community, resilience, and the power of shared dreams. At TotalEnergies, we believe in that power – the power that unites, inspires, and drives Africa forward.’

Attended by various stakeholders from TotalEnergies, the Lagos event attracted football enthusiasts, corporate partners, and members of the media, who gathered to witness the gleaming AFCON trophy up close-a golden emblem representing not just victory, but unity, resilience, and the dreams of millions across the continent.

The Lagos leg of the Trophy Tour began with a press conference at Eko Tower 2, Victoria Island, before moving to a vibrant public viewing event at Marcellina’s Place, GRA Ikeja, where excited fans turned out in large numbers to take photos with the iconic trophy and celebrate Nigeria’s proud place in the history of African football excellence.

The tour now proceeds to its next destination, continuing its journey across Africa as the continent counts down to the grand football festival in December.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has said it is set to celebrate 20 years of transparency, accountability and consumer protection as it is about to mark its second decade anniversary.

Its management made this known in a press statement yesterday.

The statement noted that ‘Established on 31st October 2005 under the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005-now replaced by the Electricity Act 2023-NERC has played a pivotal role in steering the evolution of Nigeria’s electricity market.

‘Over the past twenty years, the Commission has championed reforms that foster transparency, accountability, consumer protection, and sustainable growth across the sector.’

The management said the NERC announced the commemoration of its 20th Anniversary-marking two decades of dedicated service in regulating and shaping the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

According to the statement, the anniversary commemoration reflects on the Commission’s remarkable journey – from the early challenges of its establishment, through the regulation of the unbundled power sector, the privatisation of key assets in the value chain, and the oversight of the Nigerian Electricity Market from the post-privatisation and Interim Market stages to the Transition Electricity Market, among other milestones.

The management also said to mark this milestone, NERC will host a series of events and activities aimed at showcasing its achievements, engaging stakeholders, and setting a forward-looking agenda for the future of electricity in Nigeria. Stakeholders from government, industry, development partners, and consumer advocacy groups will convene to reflect on the sector’s progress, share insights, and renew their commitment to building a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity supply industry.

The statement reads in part: ‘Speaking ahead of the celebration, NERC Vice Chairman, Dr Musiliu Oseni said:

‘This 20th Anniversary is not just a milestone-it’s a reaffirmation of our mandate to protect consumers, promote investment, and ensure a level playing field in Nigeria’s electricity sector.’

‘We remain committed to driving reforms that deliver tangible value to Nigerians,’ said Dr Oseni.

‘Highlights of the celebration will include:

Technical session featuring panel discussions by eminent personalities in the power sector

Health and wellness session

Debate contest on energy-saving practices for secondary school students

A commemorative dinner to honour pioneer and deceased members of staff, as well as past chairmen and commissioners

‘These activities are designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and public engagement in the sector.

‘As NERC looks ahead to the next 20 years, the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to regulate the electricity supply industry in the public interest-balancing the needs of consumers and operators while supporting Nigeria’s energy transition.’

SIR: Cybercrime has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria. With rapid technological advancement and widespread internet penetration, the country has witnessed a surge in online criminal activities that threaten individuals, businesses, and government institutions. The increasing dependency on digital platforms for financial transactions, communication, and data storage has provided cybercriminals with fertile ground to exploit vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

The economic impact of cybercrime on Nigeria is severe. Currently, the country loses hundreds of millions of dollars annually due to online fraud and digital theft. Businesses face financial losses, reputational damage, and reduced customer trust, while the government loses revenue that could have been used for development. Furthermore, cyberattacks on banks and financial institutions disrupt the stability of the financial sector, making investors wary of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Another area heavily affected by cybercrime is national security. Hackers have targeted government websites, critical infrastructure, and databases containing sensitive information. These breaches compromise the integrity of government systems and could be exploited by foreign entities or terrorist organizations. The inability to safeguard national data poses a threat not only to Nigeria’s internal stability but also to its international reputation as a secure place for digital investment.

The evolution of cybercrime techniques in Nigeria is alarming. Beyond traditional email scams, criminals now employ phishing attacks, identity theft, ransomware, and online impersonation. Social media platforms are increasingly used to deceive victims, while cryptocurrency has made it easier for criminals to conceal and transfer stolen funds anonymously.

Nigeria’s limited cybersecurity infrastructure and lack of specialized personnel obviously hinder effective investigations and prosecutions. There is a pressing need for the government to invest in digital forensic tools and international collaborations to enhance its capacity to combat cybercrime.

Many Nigerians fall victim to online scams due to ignorance about cybersecurity practices. Schools, universities, and organizations should incorporate digital literacy and cybersecurity education into their curricula and training programs. This will not only protect potential victims but also steer young minds away from viewing cybercrime as an attractive career path.

The private sector also has a role to play in combating cybercrime. Financial institutions, telecommunication companies, and technology firms must strengthen their security systems to prevent breaches. Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential in developing effective cybersecurity strategies, sharing intelligence, and responding to cyber incidents promptly. Such partnerships can create a more resilient digital environment capable of deterring criminal activities.

Cybercriminal networks often operate across borders, making it necessary for Nigeria to work closely with international law enforcement agencies. Sharing data, expertise, and technological resources can help trace and dismantle transnational cybercrime syndicates. Additionally, adopting international best practices in cybersecurity can enhance Nigeria’s capacity to prevent and respond to threats effectively.

Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the seed system and achieving food sovereignty through innovative agriculture, policy reforms and global partnerships.

Speaking at World Food Forum and Global ‘Seeds to Foods’ Exhibition, organised by Food and Agriculture Organisation, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said FAO-Trkiye-Nigeria South-South Cooperation will enhance dry farming, boost food security, cut poverty, and promote sustainable forest management.

Kyari said the initiative can transform livelihoods and make Nigeria a hub for high er crop production and export, with Borno State as its pilot.

‘We see potential to scale up this initiative, not only to improve livelihoods in Borno State but to position Nigeria as a regional hub for production and export of these high-value crops. With vast arable land, entrepreneurial farmers, and support of FAO, Trkiye, and other partners, we can unlock markets and drive inclusive agricultural growth,’ he said.

Kyari said the partnership is proof of vision in action, noting that strengthening the seed system is key to securing Nigeria’s agricultural future.

‘When we strengthen seeds, we strengthen farmers; when we secure seeds, we secure our future,’ he added.

Highlighting the achievements, Kyari said the project introduced 10 Turkish crop varieties with five local ones, conducted 219 field demonstrations, and set up 14 seed multiplication plots.

He said the initiative produced 7.5 tonnes of seed, including 684 kilogrammes from new legumes, such as chickpeas and lentils. In addition, 186 participants, of which 55 are women benefited from capacity-building, training, and exchange visits to Trkiye on seed processing, value addition, and post-harvest handling.

The project, he said, invested $200,000 in training, demonstrations, and institutional development, with provision of boreholes and field equipment to support irrigation and dry-season farming.

Kyari said the government’s agricultural transformation strategy will continue to focus on building a resilient and competitive seed system, noting achieving food sovereignty depends on strong institutions and sustained action.

‘We must promote transparency, innovation, and private participation; invest in research and development to breed climate-resilient, high-yield varieties; strengthen certification and quality assurance; and empower the seeds council as well as others to serve national and regional markets,’ he said.

Kyari lauded Governor Babagana Zulum’s leadership and dedication to rebuilding agricultural livelihoods.

‘By rebuilding communities, restoring livelihoods, and returning the displaced, he has shown that agriculture is more than an economic activity, it is a pathway to peace, stability, and dignity,’ Kyari said.

He noted that the Mohammed Lawan College of Agriculture, Maiduguri, has benefited from technical assistance in extension services, crop monitoring, and knowledge exchange through the cooperation programme, demonstrating the impact of South-South collaboration in strengthening agricultural institutions.

Kyari further lauded the Government of Trkiye and FAO for introducing new crops such as lentils, fenugreek, coriander, chickpea, black cumin, buckwheat, and dry beans in Borno State, noting that these crops hold promise for improved nutrition, income generation, and climate resilience.

Nigerians in the diaspora under the aegis of Tinubu Ambo Support Group (TASG) have declared their support for re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

TASG Diaspora Director, Kelvin Muyiwa, spoke at a solidarity meeting in England, where members lauded Tinubu’s efforts in stabilising the economy and restoring public confidence in governance.

Muyiwa praised the President’s ‘visionary leadership,’ noting that despite initial challenges, the administration has remained focused on repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth through reforms in infrastructure, power, and industrial development.

‘We have observed the President’s steps in reviving critical sectors of the economy. His Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results, and we believe he deserves another term to consolidate on the gains,’ he said.

The group called on Nigerians at home to participate in the voter registration by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that participation in the electoral process is vital to sustaining democracy and national development.

‘We urge every Nigerian, especially youths, to register for their PVCs. The power to decide the future of our country lies in our hands,’ he added.

The congress of the group also expressed its support for Akinwunmi Ambode, former Lagos State governor, urging him to contest in 2027.

Muyiwa noted that Ambode’s first tenure remains ‘a benchmark in good governance, urban renewal, and people-oriented leadership,’ adding that his return would further accelerate the development of the state.

‘Ambode’s leadership transformed Lagos into a model city for other states to emulate. Bringing him back will consolidate those gains,’ he said.

Tinubu Ambo Support Group reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising support among Nigerians in the diaspora and at home to ensure the electoral success of Tinubu and Ambode in the 2027 polls.

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Faculty of Arts has unveiled a N500 million Endowment Trust Fund at its 60th Anniversary Gala and Awards in Lagos.

Chief launcher, The Agba Akin of Iruland and Chairman of DSE Foundation, Chief Tunde Fanimokun, pledged a personal contribution of N500 million to the initiative.

‘By God’s grace, I’ll donate N500 million to the Faculty of Arts Alumni Association,’ he said.

UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, praised the Faculty of Arts’ alumni as ‘ambassadors’ propelling the institution’s growth.

She lauded the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Hon. Francis Shonubi for his ‘heart of gold.’

‘You make us proud. What you do reflects on us. The University of Lagos thrives because of alumni dedication.

Chief Tunde Fanimokun exceeded expectations. He accepted our postgraduate school proposal, then funded 120 staff housing flats-the best in Nigeria. Drawings are ready.

We’re beginning to own who we are. Humanities drive this. Thank you, alumni, for making us proud,’ she said.

Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Akanbi Mudasiru Ilupeju praised the alumni association’s leadership at the faculty’s 60th anniversary celebration.

‘I was their student; today I host this emotional milestone. Alumni managed this event without interference-a testament to trust and mentorship,’ he said. He urged attendees to ‘give back to their source of success.’

Ilupeju lauded Fanimokun, adding : ‘I didn’t invite Baba; I told organizers to contact him. He came, proving the power of nurturing students.’

‘Guide students, trust them, celebrate their wins. You’ll reap the glory,’ he added.

Shonubi said: ‘The faculty is the university’s heartbeat. Technology needs human empathy, wisdom, and creativity. Let’s bridge the gap.’

He said the endowment fund will aid indigent students, support special needs, and fund research.

‘We urge alumni, friends, and philanthropists to contribute.Together, we can build a future we dream of. Let the Faculty of Arts shine as a beacon,’ he said.

One of the most striking takeaways from this year’s International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., particularly during the civil society sessions, was the deepening conversation around debt and debt sustainability. For many African countries-Nigeria included-the burden of debt has become an alarming drag on development, public welfare, and national stability.

Debt remains a critical concern because much of what African governments borrow is not channeled into productive sectors that drive growth or long-term investment. Instead, these loans often fund recurrent spending or consumption, with little transparency or accountability regarding their use. This pattern has left countries like Nigeria in a worrisome fiscal position, where debt servicing consumes an overwhelming portion of national revenue. Many of us within the civil society community believe this situation is unsustainable, unjust, and contrary to the spirit of genuine development financing. It is why we continue to advocate for greater debt transparency, responsible borrowing, and, in some cases, outright debt cancellation-especially for loans that have not directly benefited citizens.

Nigeria, in particular, is abundantly blessed with natural and human resources. What the country needs is not more loans, but stronger mechanisms to harness these resources effectively, block leakages, and curb wasteful spending. Reckless borrowing has only deepened dependence on multilateral institutions like the IMF and the World Bank, while domestic inefficiencies continue to stifle growth. During the meetings, we reiterated our call for these global financial institutions to reconsider the ease with which they approve new loans to African governments, especially when accountability mechanisms are weak or absent.

Another strong point raised was the need for civil society inclusion in the debt monitoring process. Across the continent, many national legislatures remain poorly informed about the specific terms and conditions of external loans negotiated by the executive arms of government. This opacity means parliaments are often unable to perform effective oversight or ensure that borrowed funds are used for genuine development projects. Civil society participation can bridge this gap by demanding transparency and ensuring that borrowing decisions reflect national priorities and public interest.

Beyond debt, discussions also touched on broader economic pressures-particularly inflation, the rising cost of living, and the erosion of citizens’ purchasing power. In many African countries, people are struggling to afford basic needs such as food, healthcare, education, and transportation. The situation has been made worse by the withdrawal of subsidies across key sectors, often imposed as part of the conditions for accessing international loans. Ironically, while developing nations are being urged to remove subsidies, many developed countries continue to maintain them to support their citizens in areas like agriculture, transport, and education. Africa, therefore, must return to the basics: build strong, transparent institutions, invest in its people, and harness its abundant resources to finance development internally. Only then can the continent free itself from the cycle of debt dependency and reclaim control over its economic destiny.

Nigerian Economy and the injustice of the debt trap for developing economies

One of the most persistent challenges confronting Nigeria is the fragile state of its economy, which remains largely monolithic. While many nations have diversified their production bases and embraced technology to drive inclusive growth, Nigeria continues to rely heavily on crude oil and gas as its primary source of revenue. This overdependence has left the country vulnerable to global price shocks and domestic inefficiencies. Even within the oil and gas sector, widespread theft, illegal mining, and poor accountability have stifled its full potential. The nation’s inability to provide clear leadership in economic diversification remains one of its greatest failings since independence.

Closely linked to this is the country’s weak infrastructure base, which has discouraged meaningful investment. Investors-both local and foreign-require a stable and efficient environment to thrive, yet Nigeria continues to struggle with unreliable electricity supply, poor road networks, decaying transport systems, and fragile digital infrastructure. The energy sector, in particular, remains underperforming, with generation and distribution capacities far below national demand. These persistent bottlenecks, coupled with worsening insecurity, have made Nigeria an unattractive destination for long-term investment. Businesses operate under enormous pressure, while millions of young people are locked out of productive opportunities.

Against this backdrop, the growing debt burden paints an even grimmer picture. The current debt trap facing developing nations like Nigeria represents not just an economic challenge but a structural injustice that perpetuates poverty and dependency. This debt spiral is partly a result of internal governance failures and partly the consequence of an unequal global financial order that favours lenders at the expense of borrowers.

For Africa, and Nigeria in particular, the tragedy is compounded by massive illicit financial outflows. Every year, billions of dollars leave the continent through corruption, tax evasion, and money laundering-funds that could have been invested in education, health, infrastructure, and social welfare. If these leakages were blocked, there would be little need for Africa to continue borrowing to survive. But corruption and weak institutional capacity ensure that borrowed funds are mismanaged, often diverted to recurrent expenditure and political patronage rather than productive investments that generate jobs and growth.

In Nigeria, the pattern of borrowing has been especially troubling. Most of the loans obtained are not directed toward capital projects or infrastructure but used to finance consumption and administrative costs. There is little transparency or public accountability in how these debts are incurred or spent. Civil society organisations have repeatedly called for inclusion in debt monitoring processes, given that even lawmakers in many African parliaments are not fully aware of the terms and conditions of these loans. The secrecy surrounding debt agreements has enabled mismanagement and mortgaged future generations to a life of perpetual repayment.

Even more disturbing is Nigeria’s growing tendency to borrow from commercial banks at high interest rates, further deepening fiscal vulnerability. As the Group of 24 (G-24) rightly observed during global financial meetings, developing countries are the most exposed to corruption and capital flight, largely because they have failed to establish robust systems to curb money laundering, illicit financial flows, and outright looting. As a result, money meant for roads, hospitals, schools, and small businesses is either stolen or wasted on unproductive ventures. The consequence is a vicious cycle: underdevelopment leads to more borrowing, and more borrowing fuels underdevelopment.

The injustice of this debt trap extends beyond domestic mismanagement-it is rooted in the very structure of the international financial system. Institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank were originally created to promote global economic stability and assist developing nations in achieving growth. However, over time, they have become instruments of conditionality, often imposing policies that deepen inequality. African countries are routinely compelled to remove subsidies on fuel, food, healthcare, and education as a condition for accessing loans. Ironically, developed countries that champion these austerity measures still maintain generous subsidies to protect their own citizens in similar sectors.

This imbalance highlights the urgent need for reform within the global financial architecture. The current arrangement leaves African countries with little or no voice in decision-making processes. The governance structure of international financial institutions still reflects the post-World War II order, dominated by a handful of wealthy nations. African representatives are often invited only to endorse pre-determined decisions or receive tokenistic support-what one observer described as ‘peanuts.’ Such marginalisation reinforces the dependency mindset that has long kept Africa at the periphery of global finance.

To break free from this cycle, Nigeria and other developing nations must push for a fairer, more inclusive international financial system-one that prioritises genuine development over profit. Equally, there must be a total overhaul of domestic financial management systems to eliminate leakages, strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms, and ensure that borrowed funds are transparently utilised. Civil society and the media must play stronger watchdog roles, while national legislatures should assert greater oversight on all loan agreements.

Nigeria’s abundant natural and human resources should be the foundation of its economic independence, not its vulnerability. The country must learn to generate wealth internally by investing in technology, value addition, and human capital development. Only then can it escape the injustice of the debt trap-a trap that continues to erode sovereignty, stifle development, and perpetuate the poverty of millions across the African continent.

Education, innovation and the future Africa must build

African nations, and Nigeria in particular, must urgently invest in education, science, and technology if they are to keep pace with a rapidly changing world. The global economy is now driven by knowledge and innovation, and without the right skills and capacity, Africa risks being left behind in the digital and artificial intelligence revolution.

Education remains the foundation of progress. Every major advancement in science and technology is powered by human knowledge. If citizens are denied access to quality education, they cannot meaningfully participate in or benefit from global technological shifts. That is why affordable, accessible, and quality education must be treated as a national priority, not a luxury.

Unfortunately, Nigeria’s education system has suffered decades of neglect. Public schools and universities are underfunded, overcrowded, and poorly equipped. Laboratories barely function, libraries are outdated, and research is virtually non-existent because there are no grants or institutional incentives for innovation. As a result, universities that once produced top-tier thinkers now struggle to conduct meaningful research. This has left Nigeria as a passive consumer of foreign technology rather than a creator of its own.

In the developed world, universities serve as engines of innovation. Governments invest heavily in research because they understand that every invention and technological leap begins in the classroom and the laboratory. In Nigeria, however, education has been reduced to a privilege for the few who can afford it. The political elite, rather than fixing the system, send their children abroad while local institutions decay. This attitude not only undermines public education but also deepens inequality and weakens accountability.

If Nigeria is serious about development, it must rebuild its education system from the ground up. Policymakers must recognise that without investment in human capital, there can be no sustainable growth. Reviving education requires adequate funding, modern infrastructure, improved teacher welfare, and curricula that reflect today’s realities in science, technology, and innovation. Partnerships between universities, industries, and government are also crucial to ensure that research is directed toward solving real problems-whether in agriculture, healthcare, or renewable energy. This linkage can transform research findings into products, jobs, and industries that drive inclusive growth.

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and other development advocates have long emphasised the need for financing for development-ensuring that national resources are channelled into productive investments like education, health, and research. But corruption, waste, and illicit financial flows continue to drain Africa’s wealth. Every stolen dollar is a classroom unfunded, a laboratory unequipped, a teacher unpaid.

The future belongs to societies that invest in people. Africa cannot borrow its way to progress; it must educate its way to greatness. Reviving education and research is the surest path to economic transformation. When Nigeria finally treats education as a national emergency and equips its citizens with the knowledge and skills to innovate, it will no longer have to depend on others for its survival. Education is not just a tool for development-it is the engine of freedom and the bridge to a better future.

On every campus, love seems to find its way into lecture halls, hostels and even library corners. Some students believe that dating and romantic relationships are the comfort that ease them from academic stress while for others, it is the very distraction that pulls them away from their books.

For Joseph Evah Tare, a 300- level Mass Communication student at Anchor University Lagos, staying single is not a sacrifice but a deliberate choice.

Tare represents a group of students who intentionally avoid romantic relationships during their undergraduate years. For them, love is not only a potential distraction but also an unnecessary burden.

‘When conflict or misunderstanding happens, it can affect concentration which makes it harder to stay fully focused on schoolwork .

Not all relationships are like this, but many students struggle to balance both,’ he said.

Tare further stated that he has been able to properly manage time, late night sleep and academic stress but he is not ready to add emotional stress to the list.

‘Staying single has allowed me to give more attention to my studies. I don’t have to worry about meeting someone’s expectations or managing relationship issues, so I can dedicate it more to reading, doing assignment and preparing for exams,’ he said.

Just like Tare, another 300-Level student Crescent University, Abeokuta, James Akorede, shares an indifferent view

‘Being in a relationship as a student is a balancing act. Sometimes it is great to have somebody to support you but other times it can be distracting,’ he said.

James stated that being in a relationship as a student comes with a lot of emotional stress which may affect focusing on studies.

A student in the Department of International Relations, Redeemers University, Emmanuel Glory stated that people in a relationship have a high probability of not focusing fully on their academics and it would affect their grades in the long run.

‘They will not focus well and their grades will be low if they cannot handle it,’ she said.

‘She said: ‘People in a relationship often spend more time with their partners which affects other relationships shared with friends and families.

‘ Staying single has helped me invest more in other social circles and explore a wider range of activities and people.’

A student in the Department of Mass Communication, Fountain University Osogbo,Sarumi Adebimpe, disclosed a personal disinterest for relationship on campus as it serves as distraction for student.

Sarumi said: ‘Students in a relationship may not be able to concentrate on their goals. It is a two-way thing, it can distract some and motivate some.’

She shared some reasons she lacks interest in relationships and tries to avoid any romance on campus.

‘I have not been emotionally abused or hurt by someone. I sleep early, no late night calls and I am not trying to impress anyone,’ she said.

She further stated that being single is a personal choice which has helped her to place her academics as her highest priority.

‘Last semester was on God, there were lots of distractions. That is why I feel it is best for me to stay off any relationship for now,’ she said.

She criticised some immature relationships in higher institutions that are not necessary for students’ growth.

‘My school is a small community. You will see a 17-year-old guy in 200-Level dating a 16-yea- old girl in 100level . They are immature and have no idea of what relationships are all about, moreover, it adds no value to their academics.

‘Students in tertiary institutions are free to enter relationships because they are considered adults.

However, they should always remember that their academics should always be superior,’she added.

Similarly, Adekanmbi Oluwatobiloba, a 300-level Mass Communication student at Babcock University, Ogun State, said relationships are forms of distraction and can have a negative impact on students.

‘ Personally, I am not in a relationship because I don’t think I can handle all the drama and stress that comes with it. I don’t believe I am emotionally mature to be in a relationship,’ she said.

She emphasised on the emotional energy that students invest into their relationship while trying to joggle through academic struggle which may create problems for such an individual.

‘Relationship is a big deal and it requires time and attention. A person who cannot balance his academic life and relationships will definitely have problems,’ she said.

She further stated that being single on campus has relieved her of distractions that may affect her academics, one of which is trying to impress.

‘I don’t have anytime to spare to one boyfriend. I am not always on phone calls or chatting for a very long period of time and I don’t cry or stress myself over one boy,’ she said.

Oluwatobi highlighted some emotional damages that relationship can have on students when it eventually fails.

‘ Heartbreak can cause a person to be hurt and uninterested in doing anything which may involve reading and paying attention to one’s studies,’ she said.

To students thinking of entering relationships or already in one , Adekanmbi advises that one should be matured and ready to cope with the stress involved.

‘If a person is mature enough to be in a relationship and can prevent it from messing with their academic life then there is no problem,’ she said.

When love motivates, not distracts

Not every student in the university sees relationship as a distraction. For some, relationship provides encouragement they need to excel.

Akorede Mojisola, a student in the Department of Mass Communication, Bowen University, believes her boyfriend has been a positive impact in her academic journey.

‘My partner is a great motivator and sometimes helps me with my assignment when it is too much,’ she said.

For a student like Mojisola, love is not a distraction but a partnership. Her value shows that while relationships may require time and sacrifices, she doesn’t allow it compete with her academics.

‘ I believe my education is more important than my relationship,’ she said.

Across campuses, many students share the sentiment that having a partner brings emotional balance, which in turn supports academic focus. According to them, instead of being a distraction, these relationships act as a support system-providing motivation, accountability, and sometimes even financial or moral support.

Omasaku Oluwatosin, a student in the Department of English and Literary Studies at Lead City University, Ibadan, said that her relationship has helped her build herself and has greatly helped her academically.

‘My relationship motivates me to study harder so I don’t disappoint myself and my partner,’ she said.

She said relationships can also be challenging when it clashes with academics.

‘Being in a relationship on campus is honestly a mix of sweetness and stress. Sometimes it is good to have someone who cares about you but at the same time, it can be distracting if you are not careful.

‘There were times I had assignment to finish but I ended up spending that time chatting or going out instead. Later I had to rush and it wasn’t always my best,’ she said.

Oluwatosin stated that there will be times that it will clash with academics and if care is not taken, distraction comes.

‘I have missed student sessions because of my partner. Not always intentionally, but sometimes emotions or spending too much time together made me forget plans.

‘It is easy to get carried away with chats and emotions, and before you know it, your reading time has gone.

‘I try to set boundaries. I fix specific times for reading and reduce chatting during those hours. I remind myself I came to school mainly to study and not just fall in love.

‘My advice is simple: know why you came to school first. If you are in a relationship, do not let it take the place of your academics. Learn to balance both, and when you notice that love is making you lose focus, be bold enough to reset your priorities. Books first,love later,’ she said.

Similarly, Odebo Ezekiel, a 300- Level Mass Communication student said relationships in school are sometimes seen as strength for some students.

‘Some students use their relationship as strength. They set goals for each other as partners, go to classes and just build each other up,’ he said.