Time Management: Its Intrigues And Features

by Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, countless individuals cum entities across the global community, particularly in this part of the world, had derailed as regards the interpretation of the real essence of time in our everyday lives. Often times, a lot of questions had been raised in respect of time. Amazingly, on most occasions, people failed to tender the apt answer to the enquiries. Hence, I decided to come up with a very crucial one, which reads ‘how do you manage your time?’ This very one deserves an unalloyed attention because it is targeted to address several anomalies concerning time management. We cannot shy away from discussions pertaining to time management if we are really determined to excel, or distinguish ourselves, in our various field of endeavour. It would shock, or perhaps surprise, you to note that adequate time management is arguably the secret behind most successes recorded by mankind. In his words, Baltasar Gracian said “All that really belongs to us is time; even he who has nothing else has that.” This intends to inform us that with time, one can attain to any height in accordance with his or her aspiration. And, the time itself ‘belongs to us’, meaning literally that we can make use of it the way and manner we desire. Frankly, our inability to utilize our time properly has been the prime reason we have failed in various occasions. The last time I checked, most of us were still lagging behind when it calls for utilization of time. And, those who fall in this bracket can never move ahead, even a bit, until they fully comprehend how best to manage their time.

An associate of mine, years ago, missed a mighty contract owing to his inability to abide by the time stipulated in the invitation. He was asked via a text message to report to the firm by exactly nine O’clock in the morning. But as a result of the ‘African time’ mentality, he didn’t take the time seriously, thus he arrived at some minutes past ten. He was, however, granted the interview as planned. He reportedly performed very well after all said and done. But surprisingly, the Human Resources Manager (HRM) said to his face “Mister Ken, you are truly qualified for this job but I am afraid of one thing.” When he tried to ascertain what informed the HRM’s fear, he was rightly told that the company was not ready to engage or contract anyone that believes in African time. That was how they deprived him of the golden opportunity. William Penn opined “Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.” Most people spend most of, or virtually all, their time catching funs or engaging in frivolous activities. They do so, forgetting time wait for no one. Jef Mallett wisely asserted “If time flies when you are having fun, it hits the afterburners when you don’t think you are having enough.” It was the famous Nigerian musician, Mike Okiri that sang in vernacular “Time na money.” In the song, he implored people to use their time judiciously, stressing good things do not fall from heaven but are acquired by hard work. Little wonder John Kennedy counselled “We must use time as a tool, not as a crutch”. Among all, it is pertinent to acknowledge that “Lost time is never found again” as opined by Benjamin Franklin. Hence, we are charged to always take into cognizance that time is invariably of the essence when carrying out any task. This signifies that it is an inevitable tool. So, no matter how much we make effort to steer clear of time, we can never succeed; rather, we will only end up hurting ourselves. It suffices to assert that one who plays with his/her time has played with the future.

“If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.” This was tendered by Maria Edgeworth, and I concur. She was trying to argue that if we properly handle our present situation, the future will certainly have nothing to fear for. And, it is important to understand that it is only adequate management of time that can enable us conquer the challenges of today. On a daily basis, we are expected to schedule our respective useful activities or consignments, and never play with any of the items in the timetable. Each of the items must be given a certain time frame, and you must consciously work not to abuse the schedule. This is a keyword to success for those who truly intend to succeed.

It would interest us to note that, even those we look up to, still don’t joke with their time. Survey shows that successful individuals are more conscious of their time than the incoming ones. This is because, out of experience, they have realized how powerful the said tool is. This is why each time you see them, their eyes are on their wrist watch. It’s, therefore, on this note I urge us to invariably bear in mind that time is the conqueror of everything under the sun, hence the need to adore it. At this point, I leave you with the words of Philip Stanhope that says “Know the true value of time; snatch, seize, and enjoy every moment of it… And never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.” You have all it takes to be in control of your precious time. So, you shouldn’t allow the reverse to be the case. Do not let your time control you, hence you will live your entire life to regret your steps. It only take proper planning to adequately handle or manage the situation. This implies that we must always be mindful of how we plan our schedules. The time has really and obviously come for us to treat our time with absolute seriousness if truly we are determined to arrive at the desired destination as it is being scheduled. Think about it!

PROMOTING TEACHING PROFESSION AMID TEACHERS’ CELEBRATION

by Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, October 5 annually remained World Teacher's Day. This implies that the 2021 edition of the lofty event was celebrated yesterday, meaning literally that the teachers are still in the mood of celebration. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Teachers at the heart of education recovery”. This is targeted to highlight the support teachers need to fully contribute to the recovery process as the Coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) crisis lingers after one and half years of emergence. In view of the unavoidable impact of teachers on any society, in 1994, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reached a unanimous resolution that October 5 of every year should be observed by all the UN Member States as World Teachers’ Day. The annual World Teachers’ Day, which is aimed at mobilizing support for teachers as well as ensuring that the needs of future generations would continue to be met by teachers, was first commemorated in the year 1994. According to UNESCO, World Teachers’ Day represents a significant token of the awareness, understanding and appreciation displayed for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and global development. On its part, Education International (EI), which is the global union federation that represents education professionals worldwide, strongly solicits that World Teachers’ Day ought to be internationally recognized and celebrated around the world. No doubt, every right thinking person eagerly wishes to know what he/she does not or is yet to know. Such attribute can be referred to as man’s quest for knowledge. In the same vein, for anyone to acquire any form of knowledge, he must be taught by someone or something.

In a situation whereby the knowledge recipient is being taught by a non-human such as book, internet, or as the case may be, it is worthy to note that that material or avenue through which he/she acquired the knowledge was invented by someone or a human. In other words, teaching cannot be possible without the effort of a person. Someone who imparts knowledge on other person(s), directly or indirectly, is generally referred to as a teacher. In a concise term, a teacher is someone who teaches others better ways of doing something or a better way of living. He can also be described as someone who helps or contributes meaningfully in the uplift of someone else’s educational status or level. Hence, teaching is simply the act of impacting knowledge. On the other hand, education, in a general sense, is the means through which the aims and habits of a group of people lives on from one generation to another.

Sure, anyone can be identified as a teacher, considering the relationship that exists between the persons involved. It would equally interest us to acknowledge that, there are those or group of persons who embrace teaching as a profession; this set of people could be regarded as institutional teachers. The latter are the people the World Teachers’ Day is targeted to celebrate. The institutional teachers are the ones that are often recognized as ‘teachers’ owing to the fact that they are the only persons that bring out their time, energy, resources, and what have you, to the fullness, to ensure that knowledge is fully and duly obtained by its seekers. Among all, anyone who practises teaching or who takes teaching as a profession, must had passed through a certain professional training in a higher citadel of learning, particularly an education institute. In most nations, it is disheartening to note that this set of people known as teachers, who had contributed immensely and relentlessly to the socio-economic development of the nation, are treated poorly as regards payment of salaries among other incentives.

It is even more pathetic and disgusting to acknowledge that in some quarters, these persons whom are meant to be the leading professionals are regarded as second class, if not third class citizens. If the truth must be told, then we all must agree that it is only an insane man that is yet to comprehend that teachers are the building block of any nation or society. Needless to say; they remain the rudiments or foundation on which any nation is built. As the popular saying goes "No teacher, no nation." So, when realized that same set of individuals are invariably relegated to the background, it becomes a thing of worry to anyone who truly means well for his country, or immediate society. As Nigeria joins the world to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the World Teachers’ Day, all relevant stakeholders and authorities are expected to encourage the teaching profession by ensuring that the following conditions are reached by employers of labour:  Good and enticing employment conditions including appropriate contracts, salaries, and prospects for career progression and promotion.  Effective management to include a teacher’s recruitment and deployment.  Conducive and charming work environment as well as high quality pre- and in-service training.

The international community and various governments need to stand firm and united to support teachers as well as quality learning worldwide, especially in those countries where the highest number of out-of-school children exists. In this regard, they are meant to acknowledge that an education system is only as good as its teachers. More so, the various existing teachers’ unions are equally expected to support their respective governments in the area of maintenance of sanity in our schools. By so doing, anomalies to include mediocrity, laxity, apathy, truancy, and other nonchalant attitudes found among most present days’ teachers would be totally eradicated. The above measures, if properly implemented in Nigeria, would enable every teacher in the country to proudly identify him/herself as a ‘teacher’ regardless of the circumstance, which would definitely help to uplift the country’s educational standard. We are, therefore, expected to support this remarkable crusade with utmost passion, especially at this era when the physiognomy of our education sector seems pitiable and epileptic. A teacher needs to be fully rewarded here on earth as he or she strives for excellence. Hence, the usual obnoxious belief that a teacher's reward lies in heaven must be delisted from our collective mindset. Think about it!

FUTO Don Ranks Best Natural Scientist In Nigeria

Professor Emeka E. Oguzie has ranked the Best Natural Scientist within the shores of Nigeria. According to the 2021 edition of the AD Scientific ranking in Nigeria, Professor Emeka Oguzie emerged the overall best on the list of the top twenty researchers across the federation. It's noteworthy that only four natural scientists made it to the list.

Prof. E. E. Oguzie, who is the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) on Research Development & Innovation (RDI) in FUTO, obtained his B.Sc, M.Sc and PhD in Analytical & Physical Chemistry from UNN, FUTO and UniCal, respectively. Prof. Oguzie previously served the University as the Dean of School of Environmental Sciences (SOES) between 2017 and 2019. Furthermore, he was appointed as the Director of Africa Centre of Excellence for Future Energies and Electrochemical Systems (ACE-FUELS), FUTO; a position he holds till date.

It could be recalled that the don was recently listed by the Stanford University, California among the top two percent of the most cited scientists in the world in various disciplines.

Buhari's 61st Independence Day Anniversary Address On October 1, 2021

President Muhammadu Buhari Presents 101-paragraph Speech,Promises Better Days Ahead ...Says Nigeria Commences Journey To Pharmaceutical Independence, Others

Citizens of Nigeria, It is with full gratitude to God that today, we celebrate Nigeria’s sixty first Independence Anniversary. 2.​For 1st of October 1960 to happen, all hands were on deck. East, West, North all came together to celebrate freedom. Today should not only serve as a reminder of the day the British handed over the reins of power to Nigerians, but also unified Nigerians from all ethnic groups, religions and regions. 3.​Today, despite the challenges we face, most Nigerians still maintain the spirit of 1st October. That positive outlook and determination to make Nigeria a peaceful and prosperous nation. It is due to this collective attitude that Nigeria doggedly continues to remain a united and indivisible nation. 4.​Fellow Nigerians, the past eighteen months have been some of the most difficult periods in the history of Nigeria. Since the civil war, I doubt whether we have seen a period of more heightened challenges than what we have witnessed in this period. 5.​Our original priorities for 2020 were to continue stabilising our economy following the deep recession while restoring peace in areas confronted with security challenges. But the COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating impact on all nations meant we needed to shift gears and re-strategise.

6.​Nigerians came together as one to fight against COVID-19. It is this attitude and by the special grace of God, we continue to survive the pandemic as a nation and indeed, provide leadership and example at regional and international levels. 7.​The doomsday scenario predicted for our country never came. Even as the Delta variant continues to spread, we have built the capacity we need to respond now and into the future. 8.​I will therefore appeal to Nigerians not to take COVID lightly, adhere to public health and social measures, put your mask on and get vaccinated. We can control this pandemic, but it requires effort on everybody’s part. The investments we made in response to COVID-19 will also serve our country to tackle any future disease outbreaks or pandemics. 9.​Despite the global inequity in access to vaccines, the Government of Nigeria has continued to explore all available options to ensure Nigerians have free access to safe and effective vaccines. 10.​Some five million vaccine doses have been administered to Nigerians through efforts led by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and we will continue to explore options for purchase or acquisition of vaccines such as through COVAX and the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust. 11.​I will take this opportunity to remind the global community that the current state of access to COVID-19 vaccines is unacceptable. We cannot afford a situation where a handful of countries keep the global vaccine supply to themselves at the expense of other nations. 12.​We must act now to accelerate equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. This is the message I conveyed to the international community in New York last week. 13.​As we push to source vaccines for our immediate needs, we shall invest more to support our pharmaceutical and research agencies to come up with ideas for locally developed vaccines. Should another pandemic arise in the future, Our question is simple; will Nigeria be ready? 14.​Accordingly, I have directed the Ministries of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Health, Education and Science and Technology to work with Nigerian and International pharmaceutical companies and research organisations to enhance Nigeria’s domestic pharmaceutical capacity. 15.​Already, the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority is raising a $200 million fund for this initiative that will complement the Central Bank of Nigeria’s ongoing N85 billion Healthcare Sector Research and Development Intervention Scheme to support local researchers in the development of vaccines and drugs to combat communicable and non-communicable diseases, including COVID-19. Fellow Nigerians, this is just the beginning. 16.​Similarly, on our approach to food security, I am proud to announce Nigeria has commenced its journey to pharmaceutical independence. 17.​This journey, which will take years to achieve but will ultimately result in Nigerian based companies developing the Active Pharmaceutical substances and competence needed for us to make our own drugs and vaccines. Fellow Nigerians, 18.​As our economy continues to open after the COVID-19 related lockdowns, we have also seen the resurgence of insecurity in certain parts of the country. 19.​In the last four months, the gallant men and women of the Military and Security Agencies have made tremendous progress in addressing these new security challenges. We are taking the fight to our enemies from all angles and we are winning. 20.​Earlier this year, I launched the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, the Deep Blue Project, which is designed to secure Nigerian waters up to the Gulf of Guinea. I am happy to inform Nigerians that we have taken delivery of key assets for this project and very soon, its impact will be felt. 21.​In the North East region alone, over eight thousand Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered. 22.​To support our surge approach to fighting banditry, the Nigerian Armed Forces have recruited over 17,000 personnel across all ranks. Furthermore, I have also approved for the Nigerian Police Force to recruit 10,000 police officers annually over the next six years.

23.​I am also pleased to note that most of the Air Force platforms we acquired over the past three years have started to arrive in Nigeria. These will positively impact our security operations in all parts of the country. 24.​In line with section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the security and welfare of Nigerians continue to be the prime focus on which programmes and projects of our government revolves. 25.​Therefore, as a Government, we are ready to arrest and prosecute all persons inciting violence through words or action. Our resolve for a peaceful, united and one Nigeria remains resolute and unwavering. 26.​That said, our hope is not to fight for peace. We can always settle our grievances peacefully without spilling any blood. 27.​I will therefore take this opportunity, on this special day that symbolises the unity and oneness of our great nation, to ask all Nigerians to embrace peace and dialogue, whatever your grievances. 28.​The seeds of violence are planted in people’s heads through words. Reckless utterances of a few have led to losses of many innocent lives and destruction of properties. 29.​Such unfiltered and unsubstantiated lies and hate speeches by a few evil persons must be stopped. Our media houses and commentators must move away from just reporting irresponsible remarks to investigating the truth behind all statements and presenting the facts to readers. 30.​We must all come out and speak against the lies being peddled. At this point, I would want to sincerely appreciate the large number of our Traditional, Religious and Community leaders as well as other well-meaning Nigerians who, in their various fora are openly spreading the message of peaceful co-existence and conflict settlement through dialogue in their respective communities. 31.​Nigeria is for all of us. Its unity is not negotiable. And its ultimate success can only be achieved if we all come together with a common goal of having peace and prosperity for our nation. 32.​We shall continue to work on dialogue based solutions to address legitimate grievances. But we remain ready to take decisive actions against secessionist agitators and their sponsors who threaten our national security. 33.​The recent arrests of Nnamdi Kanu and Sunday Adeyemo, and the ongoing investigations being conducted have revealed certain high-profile financiers behind these individuals. We are vigorously pursuing these financiers including one identified as a serving member of the national assembly. Fellow Nigerians, 34.​This is a clear example of how people abandon their national leadership positions for their selfish gains. Instead of preaching unity, they are funding and misleading our youth to conduct criminal acts that sometimes lead to unfortunate and unnecessary loss of lives and property. 35.​As the so-called leaders run abroad to hide, our innocent youths are misled and left in the streets to fight for their senseless and destructive causes. 36.​Government will continue, with greater level of peoples’ participation and in collaboration with our international partners, to improve the security architecture, reduce enabling environment for criminality to thrive and eliminate opportunities for terrorism financing. 37.​Fellow Nigerians, our unrelenting effort at resolving an almost two-decade stalling on the management of our Petroleum resources and ensuring equitable consideration to our host communities has resulted in the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021. 38.​This Act not only overhauls the Institutional, regulatory and fiscal framework of the Petroleum Industry but also reduces the previous opacity associated with this sector. 39.​This is the first step to the reforms as the process is a continuous one. Already, to further improve the governance framework, I have sought for an amendment of sections 11(2)(b) and 34(2)(b). We will also continue to review and amend as appropriate. 40.​At this juncture, it is very appropriate that I salute the leadership and members of the Ninth Assembly for their patriotism, dedication to duty, candour and most importantly the dispatch with which they have enacted legacy legislations for this nation. I do not take such level of cooperation for granted and hope it continues for the overall efficiency of the Federal machinery. 41.​Nigeria’s Roadmap on Local Refining is on track with the Commissioning of a Modular refinery in Imo State. 42.​A second is scheduled for commissioning by the end of this year in Edo State and the third one in Bayelsa State by 2022. 43.​In addition to the modular projects, we also have the two mega refinery projects coming up in Lagos and Akwa Ibom States. 44.​As these refineries are commissioned, more employment opportunities are created and there would be increased petroleum products available for local consumption which will significantly reduce our reliance on importation. 45.​In further demonstrating our plan to reduce our dependence on oil and tapping from our enormous gas resources, this administration remains committed to the “Decade of Gas” Initiative, which is aimed at bringing to focus the utilization of our huge gas resources. 46.​Already, we are supporting and promoting various gas-based projects including NLNG Train 7 and the mega urea and ammonia projects in the South-South region.

47.​As we continue to optimise and enhance our oil and gas sector, I am also proud and delighted to state that our economic diversification strategy remains on course with the persistent increase in Non-Oil Sector contribution to GDP. 48.​We recovered from economic recession in quarter four of 2020 with a GDP growth rate of 0.11%, and grew by 0.51% and 5.01% in real terms in the first and second quarters of 2021. 49.​The Agricultural sector remains key to our economic diversification efforts as the sector has been a consistent driver of the non-oil sector contributing 22.35% and 23.78% to the overall GDP in the first and second quarter of 2021. 50.​We have seen significant private sector investments in almost all areas of the agricultural value chain. And these have continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic. 51.​Unfortunately, as our food production capacity has increased, food prices have been going up due to artificial shortages created by middlemen who have been buying and hoarding these essential commodities for profiteering. 52.​To address this, I am hereby directing the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to rehabilitate the National Food Reserve Agency and also work with security agencies, the Nigerian Commodity Exchange, and the National Assembly to find a lasting solution to these disruptive and unpatriotic hoarding activities. 53.​To further enhance food production, we have completed several new dams and are in the process of rehabilitating several River Basin Development Authorities to enhance ground water supply for rainfed agriculture as well as surface water for irrigation agriculture. 54.​The water projects we completed between 2015 to 2020 have improved Nigerian’s access to potable water to 71% between 2015 and 2020. This means 12.5 million additional Nigerians now have direct access to potable water. Fellow Nigerians, 55.​This Government remains concerned by the significant transportation infrastructure deficit we have. Addressing the challenges our commuters and lorry drivers face on the motorways is still a high priority to us. 56.​To complement our budgetary allocations, the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund and the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, we recently established a N15trillion Infrastructural Corporation of Nigeria Limited (INFRACO), which is expected to begin operation by the fourth quarter of this year. 57.​INFRACO will also focus on leveraging resources on a public-private sector basis for infrastructural development in Nigeria. 58.​We hope through these innovative programs, the additional cost burden on individuals and businesses because of inefficient logistics operations will be reduced and ultimately, eliminated. 59.​We currently have over 13,000 kilometres of roads and bridges under construction all over the country of which a fair percentage have been completed. 60.​As we fix our roads, we also continue to extend and upgrade Nigeria’s railway network with the notable opening of the Warri- Itakpe standard gauge rail line. 61.​To increase capacity, we have introduced more locomotives, coaches and wagons including the establishment of a Wagon Assembly in Kajola, Ogun State. 62.​The sea ports however still remain problematic. The effect of our various interventions to reduce the gridlocks and inefficiencies have been slower than expected. 63.​However, the implementation of the Electronic Call-Up System as well as the conversion of the Lillypond Container Terminal to a Vehicle Transit Area will further enhance the ease of cargo evacuation. 64.​Our prioritisation of developing Nigeria’s Digital Economy has positively impacted the contribution of the ICT sector to our GDP. 65.​We hope our present efforts to ensure all Nigerians use a National Identification Number as well as our planned roll-out of the fifth generation (5G) network technology will ensure we stay in line with the global innovation curve as a Nation. 66.​As we embrace the digital economy in Nigeria, we are fully aware of the prospects and the perils. Our policies have been developed to enable Nigerians to take advantage of the prospects and avoid the perils of digital technologies. 67.​Social media is a very useful platform that has enabled millions of Nigerians to connect with loved ones, promote their businesses, socialise, and access news and other information.

68.​However, recent events have shown that the platform is not just an innocuous platform for information dissemination. 69.​Rather some users have misused the platform to organise, coordinate, and execute criminal activities, propagate fake news, and promote ethnic and religious sentiments. 70.​To address these negative trends, the Federal Government of Nigeria suspended the operations of Twitter in Nigeria on June 5, 2021 to allow the Government put measures in place to address these challenges. 71.​Following the suspension of Twitter operations, Twitter Inc. reached out to the Federal Government of Nigeria to resolve the impasse. Subsequently, I constituted a Presidential Committee to engage Twitter to explore the possibility of resolving the issue. 72.​The Committee, along with its Technical Team, has engaged with Twitter and have addressed a number of key issues. These are: National Security and Cohesion; Registration, Physical presence and Representation; Fair Taxation; Dispute Resolution; and Local Content. 73.​Following the extensive engagements, the issues are being addressed and I have directed that the suspension be lifted but only if the conditions are met to allow our citizens continue the use of the platform for business and positive engagements. 74.​As a country, we are committed to ensuring that digital companies use their platform to enhance the lives of our citizens, respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, cultural values and promote online safety. 75.​Nigeria’s progressive diplomacy continues to manifest through growing numbers of highly placed Nigerians in positions of regional and global influences. Very recently, Nigeria won election for the position of Commissioner for the expanded Political, Peace and Security Affairs of the African Union. 76.​Our persistent calls for a reorganized and reformed ECOWAS, to make the organization citizens-sensitive, paid off with the acceptance by the Authority of Heads of State and Governments of ECOWAS to commence the agreed reforms in the organization ahead of the next elections of the organization’s principal officers in December this year. 77.​At the African Development Bank, World Trade Organization and indeed, the United Nations, footprints of Nigeria’s Diplomacy are clearly evident. 78.​We remain confident that our goal of lifting 100million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years is achievable. 79.​Considering the positive impact of our Social Investment Programs, I recently approved an increase in the number of N-Power program beneficiaries from 500,000 to 1,000,000. 80.​Out of this, 510,000 have started the programme while the competitive selection process for onboarding the outstanding 490,000 beneficiaries is in progress.

81.​The National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme is currently being implemented in 35 States of the Federation and the FCT. Over 103,000 women have been engaged and empowered as cooks under the programme, while about 10 million pupils are being fed across public primary schools in the country. 82.​To grant increased access to credit to the most poor and vulnerable, I have directed an increase in the disbursement of Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme loans to an additional one million beneficiaries laying more emphasis on the smallholding farmers through the farmers Moni program. Fellow Nigerians, 83.​For far too long we have neglected the centrality of the civil service as the engine of governance and this has manifested in ineffective service delivery. 84.​There is widespread discontent and disillusion about the efficiency and probity of our civil service. 85.​It is for this reason that we are refocusing the Nigerian Civil Service to provide World class service to run our country. 86.​The youths of this great country remain propellants for our today and provide guarantees that we would have a secure tomorrow. 87.​It is for this reason that I remain focused on expanding opportunities for their participation in politics and governance. 88.​Recent appointments of young people into positions of authority and their track record so far, gives me confidence that we need to bring more of them into governance and this I promise to do. 89.​More specifically, to encourage Girl-Child Education, female scholarship schemes, life skills and digital literacy skills to boost girl’s enrolment, retention and completion of schooling, are all initiatives put in place to ensure gender balance in appropriately positioning our youths for positions of leadership. 90.​The commitment of this Administration to the well-being of people living with disabilities remains unwavering. 91.​Government recognises their contributions to development and I have, in this regard, directed that all relevant Government Agencies pay special attention to the peculiarities of different abilities in the implementation of policies and programmes. 92.​Rape and Gender Based Violence remains a sore point in our Nation as in many countries worldwide and this was worsened during and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. 93.​We are currently engaging Heads of Courts to establish Specialised Courts for the speedy and seamless trial of Rape/Gender-Based offences especially to ensure that justice is done for child victims of sexual violence. 94.​On the other hand, work has advanced in the reformation, reintegration and reunification of Minors involved in one crime or the other. 95.​The reformation in our Correctional Services has manifested in an increase in modernised custodial centres and a transformation from strictly punitive to attitudinal changes so that criminals do not relapse into their previous lifestyle. 96.​As we begin to celebrate our sixty one years as a Nation, we need to be conscious that Nigeria does not start and end with the Federal Government. This country is a great collective where Government at all arms and levels as well as the private sector, and more importantly individuals, have a role to play. 97.​In particular, security is a bottom to top undertaking. Joining hands and hearts together would enable us to secure ourselves and our country. 98.​I fully understand the anxiety of many Nigerians on the inability of this country to go beyond a never-ending potential for becoming a great nation to an actually great one. 99.​A lot has been achieved in the last six years on many fronts: in infrastructure, social care, governance, Nigeria’s image and influence in Africa and the international community. 100.​But critics misdiagnose incremental progress as stagnation. Since coming to power, this Administration has tackled our problems head-on in spite of the meagre resources. No government since 1999 has done what we have done in six years to put Nigeria back on track. 101.​We shall continue to serve the country: listen to all and protect our democracy and country. Thank you all and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

AS NIGERIA UNDERGOES ANOTHER MBER MONTHS

by Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, the most famous and controversial mber months is in our midst once again. The months that mark the end of the Gregorian calendar, that invariably start from September and end with December, are generally referred to as mber months. The term ‘mber’ might not be unconnected with the suffix that accompanies the entire months in question. The three basic needs of man remain food, clothing and textile. It’s equally worth noting that the three major desires of any sane being are wealth, fame and power. It’s pathetic that currently mankind has derailed profoundly as regards the avenue being embraced towards obtaining any of these three desires. Unequivocally, the manner in which most Nigerians parade themselves during the mber months has become so worrisome to all concerned, that, if proper and drastic measure isn’t taken by the apt authorities, it might degenerate into an unimaginable state of doom in the nearest future. The uncalled and irrational quest for materialism among mankind, particularly the youth, especially during the mber months, remains one of the rudimentary causes of the various lingering social-vices taking place in all nooks and crannies. Arguably, the current astonishing increase of death rate is attributable to some of these vices, to include cultism, armed robbery, cyber fraud, thuggery, prostitution, kidnapping, drug trafficking, assassination, and what have you. The astronomical prevalence of the aforementioned vices during mber months has made the former to seem synonymous with the latter, thereby making people to perceive the season as forbidden.

Aside the aforementioned vices, there are other countless anomalies associated with the period, such as over-speeding between commercial drivers, and cheating among sellers in various markets. This is the reason road carnage is invariably on the rampage at such a time. The truth is that, no one seems to be safe during the mber months, not just in Nigeria but across the globe. It is a period when an apprentice appears smarter than his master; a period when various law enforcement agents, whom are meant to control the menace, indulge themselves in all kinds of sabotage or unpatriotic acts; a period when an average seller sales food stuffs with a cup’s bottom. The mber months is a time when a commercial driver wants to cover a 7-hour journey within three hours; and of course, a season when a secondary school student feels like dropping from school towards participating in any available ‘moneymaking’ activity. Survey indicates that the ongoing alarming quest for materialism or youth restiveness is mainly occasioned by inconsequential rivalry, greed and/or lack of contentment among the populace. This implies that the anomaly is a product of man’s inability to face reality at a given circumstance, even when the answer to the situation is very glaring. Inconsequential rivalries are those competitions that are not called for, or that seem unreasonable and barbaric. On the average, politicians or established business men often indulge in this practice. It’s usually observed among this set of people during electioneering era or when battling over supremacy, as the case may be.

Some of our youths also indulge in this act toward showcasing they belong to the ruling or most powerful class, with a view to proving that they are ahead of their contemporaries. Some individuals often do all sorts of things to find themselves in such class. Greed or lack of contentment has also contributed immensely to man’s intolerable quest for materialism, thereby setting the period that leads to any festive season, such as the ember months, ablaze. Greed has arguably brought humanity to a state of mockery, and has succeeded in tearing several unions or societies apart. Against this backdrop, it’s needless to state that lack of contentment has remained a colossal nightmare to mankind. As Nigeria undergoes another era of mber months, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the commemoration of the forthcoming festive seasons, Christmas and New Year precisely, takes place in a peaceful atmosphere. Hence, governments at all levels, schools, families, the civil society, religious institutions, the mass media, as well as all well-meaning individuals, are urged to do everything humanly possible towards ensuring that the ongoing mber months would bring nothing but a blessing to the Nigerian society in its totality. This can be actualized by embarking on massive sensitization programme across the country via town-hall meetings, street awareness, and issuance of bulk SMSs, among others. More so, the various relevant law enforcement agencies shouldn’t hesitate to arrest any individual or group caught in any of the above listed acts, and must ensure that the suspect is brought to book at all cost. In view of this, the judicial custodians ought to endeavour to maintain speedy hearing of any case relating to youth restiveness among others; such step would definitely serve as a deterrent to all prospective criminals. Similarly, the concerned security agents assigned to the roads ought to be very watchful and mindful at their respective duty posts towards fishing out bad eggs among commuters. The parents and guardians, on their part, should at all times equally be mindful of what their wards do, where they go to, as well as who they mingle with. Those who are already party to any of these uncivilized and blasphemous acts, or intend joining the chorus, ought to acknowledge that it is only by the grace of God one can acquire laudable and everlasting wealth, power, or fame come rain come shine. Imo needs all of us safe and hearty at all times, hence it’s our individual responsibilities to do the needful to make her proud. Think about it!

ShortStory II Could it be Real?

by Fred Nwaozor

Wonders, they say, shall never end. The least he foresaw. The bashful Nneka just bashed into his matrimonial room.

“Could she be drunk?” he thought while sceptically and astonishly glancing at the pale-looking beautifully created creature, clad in a white nightgown as she stood at the room entrance leaning on the closed metal door.

Emeka who was lying in his bed in his boxers couldn’t fathom his view. It was unarguably just like a dream. But could he be dreaming while his eyes were widely and enthusiastically open?

“Nneka,” he managed to exclaim. “What are you doing in my room at this time of the night?”

It was about 11:08pm.

“I was feeling lonely,” she shyly responded. “I am sorry.”

Nneka was Emeka’s sister-in-law, precisely the immediate younger sibling to his newly wedded wife, Adaku. The couple tied the knot barely a few months back, and Nneka who was awaiting a call-up letter from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) having successfully rounded off her degree course some weeks back, had been asked by the new couple, upon request, to join them in the city of Port-Harcourt, Rivers State while she await her NYSC. She just arrived their home three days back.

Right from when the couple was still courting, Nneka had been attracted to Emeka without his knowledge nor his fiancée’s. Each time he visited their home in the absence of every other person, including their parents, she would employ every tactics to prolong his stay even when he was very anxious to take his leave, unknowingly to him she was up to something. Even on the day the couple tied the nuptial knots in which she was the chief bridesmaid, she felt as if she was the one getting married to him. The fantasies, euphoria as well as the not unusual sensational thoughts peculiar to such epoch-making moment were being nurtured by her person.

On that very night when she appeared at the couple’s matrimonial room unannounced or like a ghost, Adaku – a practising gynaecologist who was engaged with one of the government general hospitals in the city - had been called earlier at the night at about 8pm via telephone to report at the hospital for an emergency and she complied as usual, not knowing her darling hubby was a targeted prey.

“You were lonely…?” Emeka verified, still lying in his bed.
The fair, slim, and about 5.1-foot tall Nneka nodded calmly.
Her sparingly transparent night dress was showcasing her nude boobs coupled with her white panties, thereby making her seemed irresistible.

“Was that why you couldn’t even knock at the door?” He queried, though in a friendly tone; kept his head upright with the support of his left arm.

“I am very sorry, sir.” She said, gushed out tears and attempted to leave the room having kept the door open.

Emeka was moved by the deceptive tears. “Hold on, hold on.” He urged, stood up from the bed.
She stood still, held the partially opened door with her right hand.

“Come.” He enjoined passionately, sitting on the bed.
She quickly closed the door and walked pitiably to him with tears in her face.

“Sit down.” He requested soberly.
She complied.

He asked her to wipe out her tears and she heeded the advice.

They were seated on the bed about two centimetres apart from each other.

“What’s wrong with you,” Emeka inquired. “Is there anything you are not telling me?”

The 24-year-old Nneka quickly looked into his eyes romantically. “I fell in love with you the very first day I set my eyes on you.” She disclosed vocally.

The 37-year-old Emeka, who became dumbfounded and depressed, frowned at her, stood up.

There was a moment of silence.

“Are you out of your mind?” He ranted. “Are you insane?”

She stood up and joined him, holding his waist with her arms while facing him. Her booms were stylishly touching his bare chest. “I am so sorry,” she dished out. “Just that I couldn’t hide my feelings anymore.”

The chocolate, plump and about 5.4-foot tall young man couldn’t resist the unpredicted tender touch and lyrics; she was already all over him. Every dick and harry in him was feeling the unimagined warmth sensation, and of course his ancient driller was therein seemingly on her going by its renewed posture.

It seemed her sinister motive had been actualized. Apparently, there was no need for a prolonged preliminary since every needed instrument was within their reach. In view of this fact, in less than ten minutes time, the deed had been done.

Immediately after the unscheduled tango, they concurrently but coincidently took a glance at the clock hung on the wall – it was 11:45pm. Adaku had called to inform them the moment she got to the hospital that she may be back at the midnight. Could it be real? Did it really happen? Those were the thoughts expected to be running through Emeka’s medulla oblongata as he lay in his bed watched Nneka depart for her alleged lonely room.

On the other hand, who knows; would she feel lonely again as she earlier claimed, or had the loneliness been quenched by Emeka’s rugged trustworthy driller? Any good observer who was privileged to observe the melodrama wouldn’t hesitate to ponder over this required inquiry.

Who on earth could presume that Nneka, the renowned mouse-like and sanctimonious girl, would attempt to seduce a bachelor let alone her brother-in-law. Anyone who knew her very well could swear she was still a virgin. As the saying often goes, ‘the known devil is better than the unknown angel’. That was the most suitable clause for Nneka’s case.

Four weeks on, Nneka who was really obsessed with Emeka, deliberately conceived for him while Adaku was yet to be impregnated. She disclosed the latest development to the father of the unborn baby who frowned at her and consequently persuaded her to get rid of the pregnancy but she refused.

Emeka’s wife, Adaku who never knew that wonders were happening under her nose or imagined any antics, was totally kept in the dark until the hidden pregnancy became conspicuous in two months’ time. When confronted, her kid sister disclosed to her unequivocally that her husband was the owner of the unborn child. The disclosure was tendered when her affluent husband was away to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), for one of his numerous business trips. Adaku who couldn’t wait to have her hubby’s presence to confront him with the accusation, felt like an electrocuted creature within the two days and nights that ushered in his return.

Upon arrival, the awaited Emeka was issued the query. Surprisingly, contrary to his poor wife’s expectation, he never refuted the allegation, though it was admitted with the aid of an apologetic utterance.

Adaku passed on shortly afterwards, owing to the poison she took. She couldn’t bear the awful reality of the news relating to incest.

On World Tourism Day

by Fred Nwaozor

Today, the world over is celebrating the 2021 World Tourism Day. The remarkable event is commemorated annually on September 27. The theme of this year's commemoration is "Tourism for inclusive growth". Tourism has conspicuously emerged as one of the major Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR) sources across the global community, and is fast becoming the most highly-rated factor for societal development. At its third session held in Torremolinos, Spain in 1979, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly mandated its Member States to observe September 27 each year as the World Tourism Day having reached a unanimous resolution.

The day was chosen to coincide with an important historic milestone in the world’s tourism sector, which is the anniversary of the adoption of the UN Tourism Statutes on 27th September 1970. The first commemoration of the World Tourism Day took place in 1980. It suffices it to say that this year’s anniversary marks the 42nd edition of the laudable annual event. Tourism has over the years showcased its huge capacity in the area of job creation and human capital development, yet it’s often undervalued. Survey reliably reveals that tourism presently provides about 15 per cent of the entire world’s jobs. In spite of the above revelation, it’s appalling that the tourism sector of most countries across the global community, particularly on the African continent, is currently moribund or forgotten. It’s noteworthy that observing a beautifully-looking environment remained one of the prime desires of every sane being. This is the reason every able-bodied man works assiduously to ensure that his or her immediate surroundings appear enticingly. Tourism as an area of life or human endeavour is a sector that has over the decades pays an optimum attention to how attractive our surroundings look. This makes the area to be globally recognized. Concisely, tourism is the business activity connected with provision of accommodation, entertainment, and other hospitable services for people who are visiting a place for pleasure. In other words, a tourist can be described as a person who is travelling or visiting a certain locality for the sake of pleasure.

Tourism has been proven to be an outstanding industry that can guarantee absolute relaxation for mankind irrespective of background. This implies that no one is exempted when it calls for the essence of tourism among mankind. In the past, our various heritages were being used by our ancestors as a means of entertaining themselves, and their guests. Presently, the tourism industry has shown that these endowments can equally be utilized as business venture by upgrading them to international standard. Noting the positive impact of the tourism industry the world over, it is of no need reiterating that it has contributed massively to the socio-economic development of most nations in existence. Analysts are of the view that the industry currently represents about eleven (11%) of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and that it is a key revenue sector for developing and emerging economies. Indeed, tourism plays a very vital role in building blocks of a more sustainable future for all, which is community development. Above all, it is widely acknowledged for its capacity to respond to global challenges. In view of this, there is an urgent need for Nigeria and her likes to follow suit to ensure that the world tourism industry that helps to foster global unity and complete rest of mind is granted a preferential treatment at all cost. Nigeria can encourage the commendable crusade by ensuring that her countless socio-cultural resources are optimally rejuvenated. This proposed measure would not only help to encourage the world tourism industry, but would go a long way to elevate the country’s Gross National Product (GNP), thus strengthening her ongoing sagging economy. More so, as the world is fast embracing technology and its numerous benefits, it’s imperative for the concerned authorities to consider how to aptly deploy tech measures towards harnessing and showcasing the country’s countless tourism potentials.

To actualize this, we need to first acknowledge the impact of tech on our various activities. Then, we can proceed in engaging capable hands that truly understand the nitty-gritty of the said tool with a view to inculcating it into the sector in question. Hence, the cognoscenti must be well consulted for the way forward. Also, we must reconsider the country’s policy direction in the area of tourism to ensure that tech measures are duly enshrined therein. Nigeria as an independent state is made up of over two hundred and fifty ethnic groups, and each of these groups is tremendously blessed with various socio-cultural endowments. These cultural resources including dancing, masquerading, dressing, hunting, fishing, wrestling, and molding of sculptures, just to mention but a few, if well harnessed, would definitely help to revive the nation’s tourism sector, thereby boosting her socio-economic ego. It’s worth noting that the timing of the World Tourism Day is appropriate, because it comes at the end of the high season in the Northern hemisphere and at the beginning of the season in the Southern hemisphere, when tourism is of topical interest to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. The UN Conference on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) held in 2012 emphasized that well-designed and appropriately managed tourism can make a significant contribution to the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. The then Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon further highlighted that tourism, which remained one of the world’s largest economic sectors, was specially well-placed to promote environmental sustainability, green-growth, and human struggle against climate change through its relationship with energy. Ever since its inception, the World Tourism Day is being celebrated to foster awareness among the global community on the essence of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value. The celebration seeks to highlight tourism potential as regards promotion of the SDGs, as well as how it addresses some of the most pressing challenges the global society is currently faced with.

So, as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate the remarkable day, we are all expected to contribute our quota toward ensuring that our respective environments or surroundings become globally recognized as attractive and human friendly localities, so that, generations yet unborn would live to remember that an attractive environment is a society we all yearn for. The truth remains that everywhere in Nigeria bears tourism potentials, thus all that is required of the government, among other concerned stakeholders, is to swing into action headlong with the sole aim of doing the needful. The authorities are, therefore, encouraged to revisit the existing policies guiding the country’s tourism sector with a view to making amends where need be. Apt policy formulation and implementation as well as formidable maintenance culture are other inevitable factors. It’s high time we quit retrogressive debates and discussions regarding tourism towards focusing solely on progressive ones. Mind you, the goal cannot be aptly and holistically actualized if we continue to jettison tech value. Think about it!

UZODINMA AND ENDLESS VERIFICATION OF IMO PENSIONERS

by Fred Nwaozor 

The last time I checked, a certain set of individuals in Imo State – the Eastern Heartland – was apparently confused and stranded, hence needed to be rescued by well-meaning Imolites. The troubling and disturbing aspect of the aforementioned scenario is that the people in question are invariably referred to – by all and sundry – as ‘Senior Citizens’.

This topic is indeed discussing the teeming Imo pensioners whose story as a group has ostensibly become so ugly, pitiable, appalling and touching, to anyone who truly loves humanity, and the survival of the human race in general. 

These retirees, otherwise known as senior citizens, have unabated been subjected to ridicule, penury and unspeakable anguish by those who are constitutionally meant to protect them, or cater for their collective welfare. It’s not anymore news that since the assumption of duty of Senator Hope Uzodinma as the Governor of Imo State, it has remained verification upon verification of these innocent retirees. Till date, most of them have not been paid a penny since the emergence of this administration, yet they do not presently know what their fate entails. The affected ones as regards non-payment of pensions, and even backlog of arrears, are currently requested to once again tender their particulars and retirement documents to the concerned government offices such as the Office of the State Head of Service and the Owerri Municipal LGA Headquarters, as the case may be. This would be the umpteenth time they would be subjected to such form of slavery in a State where they are ordinarily supposed to be safeguarded and duly catered for. Each day, the affected pensioners wallow in agony, thus reportedly end up cursing the government and its officials. You ought not to apportion blame to any of them if they eventually cast spell on a government that’s apparently playing pranks on their persons.

If I do not have Imo pensioners in my ancestral home, I would have remained sceptical over the myriad of wails and complaints of the retirees, because on a daily basis, the government claims that no pensioner in the State is being owed by the present administration. My parents, who are still very much alive and hearty, are Imo pensioners. It suffices to say that I’m gathering my information from the horse’s mouth. In other words, I’m not exaggerating. My dearest Mum was paid last in April, 2020 while my Dad is yet to receive a kobo from the Uzodinma-led government. Still, one so-called media aide would shamelessly come out to misinform Imolites – and the public at large – on the true state of the matter. More painful is that, whenever they are being asked to re-submit their valid documents, the government or those in authority would never consider how they could manage to cover enormous distance towards appearing at the designated offices in Owerri, the State Capital city. They would even be requested to include their bank Statement of Account, not minding that such a document requires charges from the financial institution. How can an account that is showing red alert be able to service such charges? Knowing full well that virtually every salary account is a Current Account, most of the balances in these pensioners’ accounts are in minus form owing to the unending sub-charges occasioned by the various commercial banks in Nigeria. The short-lived Emeka Ihedioha-led administration took cognizance of this very aspect, as mentioned above. This was the reason it ensured that any retiree who was critically ill or bedridden was captured at their respective homes. Every Imolite was a living witness to this particular arrangement. None of those retirees who were in sick bed was allowed to cover any iota of distance for he/she to be captured or verified during the short reign of Chief Ihedioha. However, Ihedioha wasn’t a saint, therefore I’m not trying to eulogize or pour encomium on him, neither am I a fan to his person. Come to think of it; during his reign, it took the administration over four months to electronically verify the pensioners and none of them was paid the arrears owed them. Chief Ihedioha assumed office in May, 2019 but the retirees started earning their pensions between September and October same year. No one was paid for the months when the verification exercise was conducted; that is, between May and August, 2019. They were even meant to be paid the arrears owed by the Rochas Okorocha-led administration, because by law, government remains a continuum. This is to assert that, it has seemingly been a deceit all-along by our so-called political leaders. You cannot owe these old people and still wish and pray to be happy or live a happy life. It’s worth noting that if their blessing isn’t with you, either as a person or entity, you will never excel in your endeavours; hence, you will continue to float like a flying boat. It is more disheartening to hear that the national leadership of the Nigerian pensioners called on the Governor few weeks back and ridiculously appreciated the State’s number-one citizen for clearing the arrears of pensions owed the Imo retirees. How did we get here? In the advance society, or western world, the senior citizens are being pampered by their governments. In such a clime, everything about them is being taken care of by those in positions of authority. But here, the reverse is completely the case; they are even apparently seen as ‘witches and wizards’. Sometimes, my beloved Mum would keep malice with me, saying I’m very close to the government, hence sees me as one of those owing her. Of course, you shouldn’t blame the old woman whose case has obviously become so pathetic. Ever since she meritoriously retired, she is yet to receive a dime as gratuity, and she served the State as a Health personnel. I pray my mum won’t curse me someday, believing am part of the government that doesn’t want her to live or stay alive. I’ve taken time to explain to her that Fred Nwaozor has creditably done his bit; just that the government is acting adamantly and seems lackadaisical. I’m waiting for those who have reportedly been receiving their pensions to come and tell me their cheering stories. In fact, my mum wouldn’t like to hear – or even overhear – such a story, because that would definitely add more salt to her injury. I’m equally reliably informed that some of the Imo workers are passing through similar ordeal. The truth is that, we can’t continue to rob Peter to pay Paul. There are no two ways about it. At this juncture, I plead with Governor Uzodinma to come clean with a view to holistically doing the needful towards averting the wrath of the Almighty. I candidly mean well for him and his administration, thus more interested in constructive criticism. He might have been misinformed by his allies and sycophants, hence the compelling need for the Governor to move closer to the facts sheet. Think about it!

UZODINMA AND BUHARI’S ‘WORKING VISIT’ TO IMO

by Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, Imo was conspicuously at it again, hence needs to be re-examined by all-concerned for the good of all. It’s not anymore news that President Muhammadu Buhari was in Imo, precisely on 9th September 2021, on a ‘working visit’ in response of an invitation by Governor Hope Uzodinma. Amidst the scare, uncertainty and scepticism emanating from various quarters that greeted the preparations towards the D-day, the President alongside his allies graciously arrived the Eastern Heartland contrary to earlier speculation or notion that he wouldn’t come in person. Prior to his arrival, several Imolites were apparently of the view that the President was going to send a representative to the State. It suffices to assert that the visit of the country’s number-one citizen to Imo was unarguably a great surprise and shock to most citizens of the State. It was like the Governor used a certain charm on him, because a few reasons or factors would had made the President to either suspend the proposed visitation, or send a representative as opined by countless individuals. First, there was a myriad of security threats from different corners of Imo and beyond. This incident made the State seemed unsafe for human existence. The threat in question obviously made many Imolites to sit at their respective homes on the D-day. Secondly, in the contemporary Nigerian society, Buhari as a leader does not ostensibly have or maintain a good name, not just in Imo but in most parts of the country. This, perhaps occasioned by fathomless insecurity happenings across the country, has made Mr. President to drastically lose most of his fans, if not allies. This is to say that the coming of President Buhari to Imo, contrary to misinformed insinuations, signifies that Governor Uzodinma undoubtedly maintains a cordial and unflinching relationship with the President at the moment. The governor is indeed an enigma. Lest I digress; this topic is majorly interested in the reason President Buhari was invited for a ‘working visit’ to the State. What was really on ground that needed the revered presence of the president? If the President had come for a political reason, or activity, it wouldn’t have generated unnecessary dusts as being observed. But we were told he came for a working visit. It’s noteworthy that the President reportedly came to commission “some completed key projects” in the State. Then, one may wish to ask; what projects actually called for the visit? We were told that the ‘key projects’ included: first phase of the Naze-Nekede-Ihiagwa road, Egbeada by-pass road, and the renovated EXCO Chambers at the Government House, among others. First phase of Naze-Ihiagwa road..? I don’t understand this a bit. If you do, please interpret for me. Truth be told, this is very far from my understanding. I heard for the first time that a particular phase of an ongoing project could be commissioned. Come to think of it, is the road construction actually in progress? There’s absolutely nothing our politicians won’t teach us. But let’s be serious about this. How could a certain segment of a project be commissioned? Worse still, the road in question remains impassable. Such a gesture was really uncalled for, to assert the least. As if that wasn’t enough, we equally learnt a renovated building at the Government House was commissioned by Presdent Buhari. The commissioning of the EXCO Chambers, now rebranded as ‘New EXCO Chambers’, was another laughable move by the amiable Governor. One might wonder what exactly was going through the mind of the President when he was carrying out the ‘official assignment’. Meanwhile, the president had been there before now, so he ought to have noticed that those structures had been there prior to the emergence of the present administration in the State. But, can a renovated structure be commissioned? I’m still awaiting a candid answer to this sincere enquiry. However, I don’t want to discuss what resulted in the renovation of any building in the Government House a few years after its construction, because I’m not unaware that virtually all projects executed under the reign of Senator Rochas Okorocha as Imo Governor were obviously substandard and a slap to the State. Then, talking about the by-pass road at Egbeada, how many kilometres is the road? I have been resident in Owerri for almost two decades now, hence conversant with every part of the capital city including undergrounds. I was reliably informed that the ‘by-pass’ was named in honour of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu. The rest is history. It would be pertinent to acknowledge that I’m not here to tender criticisms or what have you, but to set the records straight. In my usual way and style, I’ve never been party to unnecessary criticisms; rather, my submissions have hitherto been objective and constructive, and nothing more. Therefore, I’m not writing or analysing for any politician to eulogize my pen. I love, cherish and adore this State so much, hence truly want people piloting her affairs to succeed. If they succeeded, the success would surely be for all well-meaning Imolites both home and abroad. In other words, my interest remains Imo, her belongings and wellbeing. So, don’t get it twisted. We have been deceived so much by our politicians. It’s, therefore, high time they desisted from indulging in activities just to score cheap political goals. Time has really come for us, as a people, to get it right. Overtime, we are told of the same story, from one leader to leader. Isn’t it time we heard something quite different and enticing? In view of this, I urge the governor to concentrate on making Imolites proud of his leadership. I sincerely want him to excel, and cannot wait to celebrate his person, thus he must choose priorities over frivolities. Lest I forget; the highpoint of the ‘one-day working visit’ was the President’s meeting with ‘South-East Leaders’. Maybe this was really the essence of the visit, rather than commissioning of ‘completed projects’. Though from what I gathered, Mr President was not informed about the intended purported town-hall meeting. Probably, he was taken unawares. Perhaps, that was the reason the President told the Governor that he would be very careful with his future invitations. However, let’s assume the meeting was for our collective good and wellbeing. But why were some key personalities side-lined in the gathering? Several notable individuals or stakeholders from the Igbo extraction were conspicuously missing at such an important roundtable discussion reportedly targeted to our common good. Nevertheless, I want to believe those who ‘represented’ us spoke our mind. I want to believe they didn’t participate merely to have a handshake, or pop champagne, with the President, but to present to his person the exact burden that had long befallen us as a people. On the other hand, I want to use this medium to tell my people that ‘Sit-at-Home’ might not be the best way or option to register our displeasure or grievance. There may be better ways if we think deeply about it. Sometimes when we resort to such behaviour, it may be to the advantage of our presumed enemies. All in all, as I enjoin our leaders to become more thoughtful of their actions at all times to avert hurtful outcomes, I equally urge their teeming subjects to be sober before reacting towards avoiding self-inflicted injuries. At this point, Imo truly needs to be re-examined, because ‘an unexamined life isn’t worth living’. Think about it!

CONDEMNING HOSTILITY AND CONFLICT AMIDST PEACE COMMEMORATION

by Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, 21st September each year remained International Day of Peace. This signifies that yesterday, the global community commemorated the 2021 edition of the lofty event. The theme of this year’s theme is “Recovering a better and equitable world”, which is targeted to recover a society where everyone irrespective of status is equal. This is necessary, because only equality can result in a peaceful society. In respect of the effect of peace to humanity, in 1981, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly through a resolution, established the International Day of Peace. The day was first celebrated on Tuesday September 21, 1982. The maiden commemoration was meant to coincide with the anniversary of the UN’s opening session, which was held annually on the third Tuesday of September. Consequently, in 2001, the UN General Assembly by unanimous votes adopted resolution that established 21st September of every year as an annual day of non-violence and ceasefire. By the resolution, the UN invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities, and to otherwise commemorate the day through education and raising of public awareness on issues related to peace. Hostility is unfriendly or aggressive behavior or feelings towards people from other backgrounds. It can also be described as a strong opposition against an idea, a plan or a situation. Conflict is a situation in which individuals, groups or countries are involved in a serious disagreement or argument which often results in violence. It can simply be defined as a state of complete confusion and disorder. On the other hand, peace is a period of time when there is no enmity, violence or war in a certain locality. It is the state of being calm or quiet, or living in mutual friendship with others. Hostility and conflict that have over the decades subjected mankind to a state of mockery, have indeed arrested the developmental thrive of most nations across the globe, thereby constituting a severe and uncontrollable poverty among the populace. Conflict, which is as old as the world, has succeeded in rendering the socio-economic growth of many countries incapacitated due to its cruel and dastardly nature. Conflict through the emergence of terrorist activities such as assassination, kidnapping, massacre, armed robbery, genocide, or what have you, has not only brought endless anxiety to the people, but has contributed immensely to the degradation of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the affected country or region, as the case may be. Also, the dangers of war, or the level of the post-traumatic stress disorder attributed to it, cannot be overemphasized. Research indicates that the rudimentary attribute of several conflicts are directly related to leadership and/or valuable natural resources such as gold, diamond, petroleum, coal, timber, water and so on. This is needless to say that, addressing the ownership, control and management of available natural endowments is crucial to maintaining peace and security in any society, thereby sustaining an ideal development needed by all. Hence, in Nigeria for instance, it’s imperative for the governments at all levels to include the host communities of the country’s resources in the scheme of things, especially while implementing capital projects. Equitable distribution of leadership positions among the citizens cum regions would equally be a welcome idea. Surely, peace and security are essential foundations for social progress and sustainable development, thus we must quench the fire of extremism among us in order to tackle the root causes of conflict. We must bear in mind that peace is definitely a long journey that we are bound to collectively embark on. It suffices to say that everyone is expected to hold peace at heart and tenderly nurture it so it would grow and blossom. It is not anymore news that armed conflict causes untold grief and hardship to families, communities and the entire country involved. Indeed, too many persons are suffering today at the brutal hands of war-mongers and terrorists. This is why, from the outset, we must learn to teach our children and wards the essence of tolerance and mutual respect. Let’s invest in the schools and teachers toward building a fair and inclusive world that embraces diversity; fight for peace at all cost, as well as defend it with all our might. The various religious bodies have a very vital and inevitable role to play in this regard. They must, at all times, endeavour to preach peace among their congregants irrespective of the circumstance. Survey shows that, on the average, a worshipper sees their religious leader as the god on earth. In view of this, the various church or mosque leaders across the country are required to tender a sermon that would bring only peace in the society rather than the reverse. From time to time, we are meant to sensitize our children, relatives, friends, colleagues, associates, and what have you, to emulate the habit of the UN Messengers of Peace, or the likes of Princess Haya, Daniel Barenboim, Paulo Coelho, Michael Douglas, Jane Goodall, Edward Norton, Steve Wonder, Charlie Theron, and Elie Wiesel, just to mention but a few, whom remain distinguished individuals carefully selected from the fields of art, literature, science, entertainment, and sports, among other fields of public life. The aforementioned prominent icons agreed to help focus worldwide attention on the work of the UN in the area of peace promotion. They volunteer their times, resources, energies, talents and passions, to raise awareness of UN’s tireless efforts to improve the lives of billions of people worldwide. The International Day of Peace offers people globally a shared date to think about how they can contribute towards ensuring that natural resources and quest for leadership positions are handled in a mature and tactical manner, thus reducing potential for disputes as well as paving ways for a sustainable future, which is obviously the future we want. Furthermore, in our various homes, we need to see our spouses as best friend, to avoid likely cases of domestic violence that could jeopardize our peace. So, as Nigeria joins the rest of the globe to mark this laudable commemoration, there’s a compelling need for holistic condemnation of any act that could result to any form of hostility or conflict around us, in order to sustain a formidable peace needed for both individual and national developments. We – as a people – might have derailed in one way or the other, but if we start now to preach as well as practice equity and fairness, the nearest future will surely usher in the needed peaceful atmosphere. Think about it!

Fred Nwaozor, a tech expert, author, policy analyst, blogger, public speaker and rights activist, has been a columnist with different national dailies in Nigeria for almost two decades now. He equally writes for the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). He's well known for his multi-tasking prowess. He’s an ace media strategist and voracious writer, and has thus far authored and published numerous articles, essays, papers and books. He’s a regular contributor and peer reviewer to various internationally-noted academic journals. He writes for Tekedia on issues bordering on Tech, Industry and Economy. He’s popularly known as TheMediaAmbassador, and has hitherto been a celebrity consultant in the media industry, image making and Information & Communications Technology (ICT) for several years. He’s currently a researcher & analyst with the revered Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Nigeria. He lectures in other citadels of higher learning within the shores of the country. He has degrees and certifications in various fields, including Industrial Physics, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, as well as Communication Engineering, and is an ardent researcher in Electronics & Telecommunications in many years standing. The enigma is presently resident in Nigeria, Owerri precisely, and hails from Awo-Omamma in Imo State, Nigeria. He passionately relaxes with reading, travelling, playing Table Tennis, Scrabble, Snooker, as well as listening to good music.