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I have just been diagnosed with diabetes. I want to know if this is a dangerous disease.

– Chigozie (by SMS)

Diabetes is not a dangerous disease when controlled with drugs and diets. However, uncontrolled diabetes over a long period can lead to kidney failure, nerve damage, loss of vision and senso-neural deafness.

It can even lead to diabetic foot ulcers and gas gangrene of the foot, which in serious conditions requires amputation (surgical cutting) of the foot. It is for these reasons that it is important for you to avail yourself of regular medical check-ups as well as strict compliance to your doctor’s advice.

I have become dependent on painkillers for the past three years due to my long-standing back ache. I want to know what to do about this.

– Gregory (by SMS)

Painkillers such as paracetamol, among others, are safe and very effective when used in moderate doses for specific periods of time. However, when used in higher doses over a long period, they can lead to gastritis, liver damage and even kidney failure.

Luckily, in addition to moderate amounts of painkillers, your chronic back ache can also be treated in other ways such as exercises, weight loss, and the use of comfortable beds and mattresses, among others. This way, the amount of painkillers that will be required for your back ache will be significantly reduced.

Starting is one thing; building momentum is another. It’s easy to track your spending for a week and then fall back into old habits. The goal isn’t just to have a good financial week; it’s to build a great financial life. It’s time to move from simply doing the tasks to creating a system that works for you, even on the days you don’t feel motivated.

Let’s build on the foundation you’ve already laid. Here are the next three steps to turn your new habits into a powerful, wealth-building system.

Your 3-Step System to Build Lasting Wealth

Automate Your Success: Become the Architect, Not the Labourer

You’ve already proven you can manually save and track. Now, let’s put it on autopilot. Willpower is a limited resource, and the single best way to beat future procrastination is to take the daily decision-making out of the equation.

Automation is your financial superpower. It ensures your most important goals are met before you even have a chance to spend the money elsewhere.

Pay Yourself First, Automatically: Log into your banking app right now and set up a recurring standing order. It could be ?5,000, ?10,000, or whatever amount you decide. Have that amount automatically transferred from your main account to a separate savings account the day after you receive your salary. This isn’t a bill; this is a payment to your future self.

The Result: By setting up this system, you become the architect of your financial future, designing where your money goes. You no longer have to be the labourer who manually moves the money every single month.

Give Every Naira a Job: Create Your ‘Money Buckets’

Now that you’ve faced your financial reality (Step 2), it’s time to tell your money where to go, instead of wondering where it went. This isn’t about a restrictive, complicated budget. Think of it as creating ‘buckets’ or ‘pots’ for your money. A simple and effective method is the 50/30/20 rule.

50% for Your Needs: This is the core of your spending. It includes essentials like rent, transportation, groceries, and utility bills. These are the ‘must-haves.’

30% for Your Wants: This is the fun bucket! It’s for dining out, new clothes, entertainment, and anything that makes life more enjoyable. This is guilt-free spending because you’ve planned for it.

20% for Your Future Self: This is the most powerful bucket. This money goes directly towards your SMART goals (Step 1). It’s for savings, paying off debt aggressively, and eventually, investing. Your automated savings (Step 5) are part of this bucket.

These percentages are a guide, not a strict rule. If your rent takes up 60% of your income, adjust the other categories. The goal is intentionality. You are in control. You are giving every single Naira a purpose.

Shift Your Mindset: From Scarcity to Abundance

This is the final, and most profound, step. Your financial journey is 80% mindset and 20% mechanics. You can have the best systems in the world, but if your mind is working against you, you will always struggle.

A scarcity mindset says, ‘There’s never enough,’ ‘I’m bad with money,’ or ‘I’ll never get ahead.’ It focuses on limitations and fear.

An abundance mindset says, ‘I can create opportunities,’ ‘I am a capable manager of my money,’ and ‘My wealth can grow.’ It focuses on possibilities and growth.

Here’s how to start making the shift:

Change Your Language: Instead of saying, ‘I can’t afford that,’ try asking, ‘How can I afford that?’ The first phrase shuts down possibilities; the second opens up your mind to solutions-like starting a side hustle, asking for a raise, or cutting back elsewhere.

Invest in Yourself: Your greatest wealth-building tool is your ability to earn. Spend time and money on learning new skills that can increase your income. Read books, take online courses, or attend seminars.

The Future is Now

You’ve moved from being a procrastinator to being a doer. With these new steps, you’re becoming a builder-constructing a system that will support your dreams for years to come.

It was a day of glamour, grace, and heartfelt tributes as Mutiat Yinka Ladoja, former First Lady of Oyo State and one of the wives of the newly-crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, celebrated her 70th birthday in grand style.

The septuagenarian is a popular politician and the Maye Iyalode of Ibadanland.

The birthday ceremony, which took place at the prestigious Sunlight Royal Hall, Ibadan, drew an array of guests from politics, business, royalty, and social circles. It was truly a gathering of the ‘who is who,’ as family, friends, and associates turned out in colourful attires to honour the celebrant.

Guests were treated to a day of music, fine dining, and glowing tributes. Speeches poured in celebrating Mutiat Ladoja as a woman of grace, resilience, and generosity whose warmth continues to endear her to many.

The celebrant, radiant in a resplendent attire befitting her natural beauty, was joined by her children, grandchildren, and friends, who all spoke fondly of her nurturing spirit and unwavering faith.

The event also featured musical performances, cutting of the birthday cake, and a lively dance floor that saw dignitaries and socialites alike celebrating with her.

From political heavyweights to captains of industries, Ibadan’s elite came together under one roof to toast to a woman whose life has been defined by service, elegance, and enduring love.

Different strokes for different folks, goes the saying. Nothing amplifies this age-long wisecrack more than the visit last Tuesday’s visit of the first daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mrs. Folashade Ojo-Tinubu, to the palace of Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, where she sought to introduce the ‘Iyaloja of Edo Markets’ to the revered monarch. SUYI AYODELE, Regional Editor, South-East and South-South, captures the moment Oba of Benin took the president’s daughter on a cultural voyage.

You are in Benin, the home of culture. We have our culture here.’ That was the opening response of Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, to the stranger-than-strange concept of an ‘Iyaloja of all Edo Markets’ which the daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mrs. Folasade Ojo-Tinubu, presented at the sacred grounds of the ancient palace.

At the palace of the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin, a new level of protocol prevails. The Benin Palace is unlike any other. When the Benin monarch sits, the entire kingdom bows in deference. Indeed, Uku Akpolokpolo radiates royalty in every ramification. His carriage and personality are overwhelming-too obvious, too domineering for anyone, even the blind or dumb, not to notice.

Guests to the ancient palace are treated differently. The king and his palace functionaries determine what is to be done at any point in time with any guest. Yes, the level of hospitality and reception may be the same, but the disposition of the king depends on the issue at hand. Ultimately, the oba determines the procedures and proceedings in his court.

When, for instance, the Omo N’Oba considers an issue too frivolous to attract his direct response, he assigns an appropriate chief to reply on his behalf. He is not an Uku Akpolokpolo for the fun of it. His is the Umogun-the Lion of the Benin Kingdom and its subjects, both at home and in the Diaspora. Little wonder the Benin people punctuate every word uttered by the oba with the prayer-wish: Oba Agha Tokpee (may the king live long)!

Oba Ewuare displayed not just the majesty of the Benin monarch at that chance meeting with the president’s daughter, he equally demonstrated that while others may discard their custom, he, as the Omo N’Oba, holds tenaciously to the traditions handed over to him by his forebears.

So, last Tuesday, when the self-styled Iyaloja General of Nigeria and first child of President Tinubu, Folasade Ojo-Tinubu, visited the Benin Palace to present to Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the ‘Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State,’ the monarch imposed on the president’s daughter a simple but profound exercise in cultural diversity.

Having reminded Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu that she was on Benin soil, after listening to her, the oba threw a sharp glance at his guest and asked: ‘Do you know the role of Iyeki in Benin culture?’

The guest could only mumble an affirmation. But the king was not impressed. He explained further: ‘Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. I have discussed this matter with my chiefs and those who are knowledgeable.’ Then he asked one of his chiefs, Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, to educate the president’s daughter on the concept of Iyeki-a purely traditional position, distinct from the social and cosmetic Iyaloja General of Nigeria, which Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu parades.

The controversy over the ‘Iyaloja of all Edo markets’ began on April 30, 2024, when, barely 11 months after her father, President Tinubu, was sworn in, Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu wrote an audacious letter to the Oba of Benin, asking him to provide all necessary support for Pastor Isi Ibhaguezejele, as her appointed Iyaloja of all Edo markets.

In the letter, Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu, who had transmuted from Iyaloja of Lagos to Iyaloja General of Nigeria, wrote:

‘Your Majesty, my name is Chief Dr. Mujudat Folasade Tinubu-Ojo (FCIML), the Iyaloja General of Nigeria, and the First Daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR).

‘With greatest sense of responsibility and utmost regards to our Royal Father, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, The Oba of Benin, I humbly write to introduce PASTOR MRS. JOSEPHINE ISI IBHAGUEZEJELE as the Edo State Iyeki-Elect.

‘With this development, it is her responsibility to see to the day-to-day affairs of traders in the state (Edo State).

‘Your Majesty, I humbly request that you give your daughter every necessary backing to succeed in this great and noble assignment as I look forward to your fatherly blessing for her to be fruitful in her newly assigned responsibilities,’ Folasade requested.

Expectedly, Benin market women did not allow that apparent aberration to pass unnoticed. From all the markets in Benin-Oba Market, Oliha, Ekiosa, New Benin, and many more-market women trooped in their thousands to the Benin Palace to protest the abnormality.

Leading the protest, the President of the Benin Market Association, Madam Blackey Ogiamen, emphasised that there had never been anything like ‘Iyaloja of Benin Market’ in the history of the kingdom. According to her, what obtains in each Benin market is an Iyeki (leader), who is independent of any other market, and who holds the position in trust for the Omo N’Oba.

Speaking during the protest, Madam Ogiamen said: ‘About three weeks ago, we heard that Folashade Tinubu wanted to impose another leader of the market women in Edo State. So, we are here to say thank you to His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II.’

The gale of protest, many thought, had put paid to the misadventure. But it turned out that Mrs. Folashade Ojo-Tinubu was only biding her time. At the time she first made the move, the government of Edo State was under the leadership of Godwin Obaseki. But with Governor Monday Okpebholo, who incidentally belongs to the same political party as President Tinubu, now in power, the president’s daughter felt that the time had come to install an Iyaloja of all Edo Markets.

So, last Thursday, Saturday Tribune gathered, the self-styled Iyaloja General of Nigeria moved to the Edo State Government House, where, in the company of other women, she pronounced Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State.

She then proceeded to the Benin Palace to inform the monarch and ask for his blessings. Accompanied by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo-Anani, Coordinator of the Edo State First Lady’s Office, Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu told Oba Ewuare II that she was in the state to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State and deemed it necessary to call on the monarch.

It was after listening to her that the Omo N’Oba decided to lecture the president’s daughter on the culture of the Benin people and the relationship between Iyeki and the Benin Palace. Hear Chief Idah, who delivered the traditional inaugural lecture on behalf of the Benin monarch:

‘Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace. Are you aware of that? Do you know that every Iyeki has a cultural role to perform inside every market?

‘The Oba does not interfere so long as the Iyeki does what is expected of her in the shrine of a particular market on behalf of the Oba. We are not going to say much, except to explain to you the concept of Iyeki in Benin.’

Chief Idah went further: ‘Iyeki is independent in every market, like the Oba Market, Ogiso Market, and others. The traders select their leaders from within the market. The Iyeki do more than the role of coordinating traders.

‘There are certain shrines in all the markets. They play roles on behalf of the palace. After their selection, they bring the person to the palace for confirmation.

‘The novelty of a general Iyeki is alien to Benin custom and tradition. We just believe the Iyaloja is your socio-cultural thing, like you have other clubs.

‘It is not in our culture to have a general Iyeki. Iyeki is particular to each market. No one has the right to control another in a different market. The Iyeki in Oba Market has no role to play in Ogiso Market. The Oba established the market for all in society.’

The finality of the oba’s tone may have permanently put paid to the audacious move by the president’s daughter to have a stooge preside over the affairs of market women in Edo State.

A palace source, who pleaded anonymity, hinted: ‘It will be suicidal for either Josephine Ivbazebule, or anybody whatsoever, to go to any market in Benin as Iyaloja. Who will she be talking to? An average Benin person knows that the Omo N’Oba’s words are laws here. Incidentally, Omo N’Oba was not mistaken in his choice of words.’

The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), under the Office of the National Security Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, is collaborating with the Taraba State Government in order to curtail the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in the country.

The disclosure was made over the weekend during a courtesy visit to Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, by the North-East Zonal Director, NCCSALW, Maj:-Gen. Abubakar Adamu (Rtd).

He said that the collaboration with governors would go a long way in curtailing the menace of the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in the country.

The Zonal Director stated that, ‘We are here to sensitize and educate the people on the dangers of the use of illicit SALW and also to speak with our stakeholders, particularly all the arms bearing units on how we can collaborate to stop the proliferation of these arms in our communities.

‘We came here to fashion out and tell the stakeholders our strategies on how to stop the proliferation of SALW as well as how to stop people from manufacturing or fabricating them’.

The Zonal Director further explained that the Centre was working in collaboration with all stakeholders in the country to mop up all SALW for onward destruction.

According to him, the Centre has been mandated by the Federal Government to prosecute any individual involved in the proliferation of illicit weapons in the country and is therefore seeking for more support and collaboration from all stakeholders in the country.

While highlighting the negative impact of the proliferation of illicit SALW on peaceful coexistence in the nation and its socio-economic activities, he pledged the Centre’s continuous cooperation with all stakeholders especially in intelligence sharing which he said, was paramount in preventing the proliferation of these weapons.

While responding, Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, appreciated the Zonal Director for the visit and assured him of the State Government’s full cooperation in discharging his official duties.

Represented by the Speaker, Taraba state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, the Governor emphasized the importance of collaboration in maintaining peace and security in the country and pledged the government’s commitment to working closely with the Centre.

The visit marked a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the Taraba State Government and the NCCSALW with both parties committed to promoting peace, security and development in the region.

Similarly, the Centre paid a courtesy visit to the Commander, 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brig:- Gen. Kinsley Uwa for more collaboration and synergy in the state.

The Zonal Director explained that the visit was part of a sensitisation tour to introduce the mandate of the Centre, which is focused on curbing the proliferation of SALW across the North East.

He also assured the NCCSALW’s readiness to collaborate with security formations through intelligence sharing, sensitization campaigns, and community engagements as part of broader efforts to combat illicit arms.

In his response, Brig:-Gen. Kingsley Uwa stated that the proliferation of SALW fuels violence, undermines peace, and hinders development.

He said ‘Addressing it therefore requires collective effort from all and sundry, not only from the Armed Forces and security agencies, but also from government institutions, communities, civil society and indeed every citizen.

‘I therefore, assure the Centre of the 6 Brigade’s readiness to collaborate closely with you in intelligence sharing, sensitization campaigns, and community engagement.

‘On our part, we pledge continued support and partnership with the Centre through synergy, vigilance, and sustainable collaboration. We will curb the menace of SALW and strengthen the pillars of peace and stability in our country’.

Other stakeholders visited in the State by the Centre for collaboration included the Commissioner of Police, Betty Isokpan Otimenyin and the Office of the Department of State Services (DSS) who also pledged to support the centre to ensure a safer Nigeria where everybody could sleep with their eyes closed.

I want to know if I can take antibiotics for the occasional infections I sometimes have. However, my fear is what I recently read in some medical journals about the possibilities of resistance to antibiotics by some organisms. Kindly advise me.

– Abdul (by SMS)

It is true that indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to drug resistance. To avoid this, antibiotics should be taken by a doctor’s prescription and should be limited to the prescribed dose and duration.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday, at the commissioning of road projects done by Governor Alex Otti, commended the governor for restoring the lost glory of Aba.

President Tinubu handed down this commendation on Friday, at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba while addressing Abians after commissioning the 6.7 kilometres, 6-lane dual carriage, Port Harcourt road and other roads including, Ohanku Road, Ndoki Road by East, Ajiwe Street, Pepple’s Road, Gabriel Nwosu, Nkoro and Umuatako.

The President, represented by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi noted that, through Governor Otti, Abia people have taken back their state as he has restored the lost glory of Abia State.

He appreciated Abians for trooping out enmasse to welcome him, stating, ‘It shows the love you have for our government, for your Governor, and for the infrastructural development taking place in Abia State.

‘Since I came, 10am, we have been commissioning projects. First was Michael Okpara Auditorium, a legacy project, a beauty to behold. I commend your Governor very highly. He is a sound economist, and a very experienced personality. I have no doubt that through him, Abia has recovered her lost glory.

‘Governor, I thank you very much, and I commend you for the great work you are doing, and I thank the leaders of Abia State, irrespective of political leanings.’

The President, who said that Abia State is very important in the economic development plans of Nigeria, assured that his government is committed to helping the sub-nationals to develop and deliver good governance, stating, ‘I commit to helping your governor, working with him to ensure that Abia State fully takes back their state.

‘Let me assure the people of the state that we are committed to helping the sub-nationals. The removal of subsidy is getting a lot of momentum projects. We are witnessing the gain of the removal of subsidy here in Abia State. It is happening in other states of Nigeria’, and higlighted many projects his administration is carrying out in the South East and solicited more support from Nigerians.

In his speech, Otti said that the road projects commissioned are of great economic and social importance to Aba business community.

‘Our joy is boundless, and for millions of people who live in this city, this day shall remain a background in our memory. Port Harcourt Road, which at a point mirrored Abari’s regrettable decline, has now returned triumphantly to its place in destiny.

‘it is projected that the economic impact of these roads could see the value of Aba’s gross domestic product rise significantly in the medium to long term. I have no doubt that over the next 12 months, the volume of trade between Aba and other business capitals in the country will double,’ he said.

He requested Tinubu to help in the developmaent of functional rail network in the Southeast and South-South region, as well as exploring how the seaports closest to businesses in the region could be optimised to drive the export of goods.

While responding to a request by Senator Enyinaya Abaribe if Abia Central on the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Otti informed that he is in talks with the President, assuring that he would be released.

‘I can assure you that I am engaging with Mr. President and he is favourably disposed to it (release of Nnamdi Kanu). And I am sure that in no distant future, Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom,Gov. Otti stated.

Abaribe while acknowledging the good projects of Alex Otti, made a case for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by the President, saying that it would calm the nerves and bring lasting peace in the South East.

Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu commended Governor Otti for the various projects he carried out in the State and urged him to do more.

While stressing the need for more partnerships between the State and Federal government, which he said, assists in delivering good governance to the people, Kalu said that he has no reason not to identify with the good governance of Governor Otti in Abia State, stating, ‘I have seen projects carried out by the governor, I commend him’.

In their goodwill messages, the Speaker Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, member representing Isialangwa and Chairman of Caucus of Labour Party Ginger Onwusibe and the acting National Secretary of Labour Party, Senator Darlington Nwokocha congratulated Governor Otti and said he has earned himself a second term in office.

The event which featured conferrement of a chieftaincy title of ‘?d? Kp? Enyi 1 of Abia State’ on President Tinubu by the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers led by its Chairman, Eze Linus Nto Mbah witnessd organic crowd both at l the venues of commissioning and the stadium, and attracted many dignitaries across the country.

In a vibrant fusion of Afrobeats and hip-hop, Nigerian-born genre-bending singer, songwriter, and creative visionary Nissi has released a powerful new single titled ‘Motivate,’ featuring Nigerian rap icon Olamide. The single which officially dropped yesterday, October 3rd, 2025, is now available across all major digital streaming platforms.

‘Motivate’ is more than just a song, it’s a declaration of ambition, resilience and drive. Nissi’s smooth, soulful melodies uplift, while Olamide brings his signature lyrical fire to remind listeners that setbacks are never the end, but rather fuel for the comeback.

The collaboration marks a significant moment for Nissi as she continues to evolve and cement her sound, bridging musical styles and fanbases.

The song’s infectious beat and powerful message make it an anthem designed to move listeners on the dancefloor, in their spirits, and through their daily hustles.

Losing a job rarely comes without warning signs. While organisations may not always openly communicate their plans, there are usually subtle changes in the workplace that can serve as early indicators that you may soon be sacked from your job. Recognising these signs early is crucial, as it gives you room to make adjustments, improve performance, or start preparing for alternative opportunities and life after the job. Also, it saves you from being caught off guard.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at six signs you may soon be sacked from your job.

1. Constant negative feedback

One of the first signs you may soon be sacked from your job is receiving repeated negative feedback from your boss or supervisor. Occasional criticism is normal, but when it becomes frequent, unusually detailed, and overly focused on your shortcomings, it could be a red flag.

Employers often document such issues carefully before making termination decisions, so ignoring these warnings can worsen the situation. Acting on feedback promptly may be the only way to turn things around.

2. Exclusion from important projects

This is another subtle sign that your work might no longer be safe. If you suddenly find yourself left out of meetings, projects, or key assignments that you once handled, it may be a signal that your role is losing value.

Being sidelined in this way might mean management is testing others to take over your responsibilities. If not addressed, this isolation could mean you are gradually being phased out.

3. Noticeable change in your workload

If there is a sudden and drastic shift in workload, either too little or too much, it might be a sign to watch. If your tasks are significantly reduced, it may be because the company is preparing for your absence or redistributing your role to others.

On the other hand, being overloaded with unrealistic expectations might also be a deliberate way to set you up for failure. Both extremes are signals that your position may no longer be secure.

4. Strained relationship with your boss

The relationship between an employee and their manager often plays a big role in job security. If your boss begins to avoid interactions, limit conversations, or openly show frustration, it could be an early sign of lost trust.

When communication with your boss breaks down and the bond weakens, it may be one of the strongest indicators that you could soon be sacked if things don’t improve.

5. Organisational restructuring

At times, being sacked from your job has little or nothing to do with your performance but rather with changes in the organisational structure. If your workplace is undergoing restructuring, downsizing, or sudden budget cuts, your role may be among those considered redundant. Employees in such positions are often the first to be let go, regardless of individual contributions.

6. Being asked to train a colleague on your role

Last but not least on this list is when you are suddenly instructed to train a junior colleague or someone new on the tasks you handle daily. While this can sometimes be a routine activity in most organisations, in some cases, it signals that the organisation is preparing another person to take over your duties.