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Nigerian Democracy Must Be Made To Be Admired. By D. Akinsanya Juliuson HonDBA, IOM (GAMJI) Naturally, we are all political animals in Nigeria. Politics may be fine for the politicians, but it’s got a pretty poor reputation amongst real business people. Politikers are perceived as power hungry dissimulators who act only to further their personal career. Politicians are the complete antithesis of business people. Details
Vice President Atiku Abubakar Must Explain! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI)
Vice
President Atiku Abubakar is bound by our Constitution and our Laws, in
view of what now looks like a huge scandal, the VP must make full,
complete disclosures of all material facts, relating all the issues raised
by his ownership of a property acquired or purchased in 2000 in Maryland
United States, (outside of Nigeria) after he became VP
The Terror Of Mass Propaganda. By Abdul A. Alliu (GAMJI) It is absolutely a good thing to see people of all faiths, be they Muslims, Christians, etc coming together to demonstrate against terrorism and violence as a means of solving a problem. But what is appalling to me is the way these so-called Muslim leaders has allowed themselves to be taken in and pushed to a defensive line by nothing other than an orchestrated propaganda by the western media and right-wing evangelist-politicians that are bent on portraying Islam as the cause of their problem rather than looking at their own world-wide policies. Details
The Eligibility Of Atiku As President. By Jonathan Manok (GAMJI) When Turaki Abubakar Atiku offered himself for service to his people as Governor of Adamawa State in 1999, little did he know that the whole nation would find him suitably qualified for the position of Vice-President in that same year, but as fate would have it, the Governor-elect of Adamawa State as he was then known, took oath of office, not as a Governor, but as the Vice-president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Details
Let President Obasanjo Continue Going. By Ibrahim Abdu Zango (GAMJI) President Obasanjo and his government seems unmindful with the situation that constant fuel hike aggravate to the whole country. The common man is always suffering and this had started since 1989 without many things at the hands of the generality of Nigerians. People are made to bear all the repercussions, persecutions and the federal might still pushes on perhaps until when most Nigerians are unable to move out from their houses. What really happening and why should the federal government in civilian attire not khaki should do this for God’s sake? Details
Critiquing of Kwankwaso and Shekarau Administrations in Kano State. By Salihu Muhammad Darma (GAMJI) Kano State returned to its former path with a different political party from that of the Federal Government. Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso who was compensated with the post of the minister of defense by Obasanjo is now engaged in fierce battle to remove Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau and return to power. Details
The Nigerian Media As Scapegoats. By Uche Nworah (GAMJI) Unfortunately, poor remuneration has led to a situation where journalists look elsewhere for supplementary incomes, some have resorted to demanding for the famous ‘brown envelope’ or according to Seyi Oduyela ‘jostling for appointments, contracts and advertisements’. Details
Obasanjo, Mass Communication, Sociology And The Real Issues. By David Olom Nkpe (GAMJI) As I was saying Mr. Matthew Aremu Obasanjo displayed his fundamental human right of freedom of speech when addressing Nigerians in the Diaspora recently by saying it is a ‘mis-education’ for anyone to ‘read mass communication’ and ‘sociology’ in the university. Details
Reflections On Muslims IN UK. By Dr. Sa’idu Ahmad Dukawa (GAMJI) Research has shown that Muslims in UK are living in some of the mainly inferior housing, have the poorest health, tend to significantly underachieve in Education, and are underemployed or, more likely. Unemployed in the labour market when compared with their non-Muslim ethnic minority peers (Abbas, 2004: 26). Details
A Tribute to the Late Umaru Aliyu Muhammad Gusau. By Dr. Abubakar A. Muhammad (GAMJI) Umaru Muhammad, even as a young man had heeded the poet’s warning about the deceptive life on earth. He was kind and generous to a fault. Umaru’s life style in Pittsburgh was remarkably unique from the average life style of a foreign student in the United States. His original career undergraduate study was engineering, perhaps with the idea of ending with graduate degree in Business administration so that he could help his father, General Aliyu Muhammad Gusau [rtd.] with his business transactions when Aliyu finally breaks away from his long and seemingly interminable public service in government. Details
The Mosaics Against Goje: Gombe 2007 Race for Gubernatorial Election. By U.K. Umar Kumbia (GAMJI) The claim that the Governor uses the Local Government funds to carry out his projects is a fabricated one because the Government of Gombe State by a valid federal statistics, is among the best three in the whole country that is transparent in handling the Joint Local Governments funds and even if the allegation is true, the end justifies the means. Details
Anti-Atiku Cabal, Leave Boni Alone Now. By Ibrahim Garbati Saleh (GAMJI) The “offence” of Atiku is certainly not that of disloyalty or untrustworthiness. Nigerians can still recall that in the heat of the alarming “northern” criticisms of the then nascent president Olusegun Obasanjo’s government, it was Atiku who, at a well attended occasion at Arewa House, Kaduna, summoned courage and patriotically carpeted the biased Northern critics, at the expense of his popularity among his fellow Northerners, Details
Why Are The Hounds After Atiku’s Jugular? -A Reply to Accusations on Washington Home. By Joel Isyaku (GAMJI) Unfortunately for Nigeria, our country enjoys the unenviable reputation of a people who delight sadistically in bringing down those who have laboured legitimately to attain success in life. Vice-President Atiku Abubakar is a living example of how men of humble origins could successfully lift themselves by sheer hard work and determination to carry their destinies in their own hands. Details
IBB: The Man is Vindicated. By Max Gbanite (GAMJI) First, they convened at the hills of Bakama, Adamawa State. A few money-driven prayer mallams and marabouts from certain West African countries, selected for séance rituals, gathered to find out in which banks and countries His Excellency General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, mni, had stashed billions in every currency that he allegedly appropriated to himself during his term of office. After many months of fasting and praying, a wise old mallam from Maiduguri got up and told the rest that the angels have spoken. The answer: “Ba corruption. Ba shiga!” Details
Boni Haruna and Uche Ezechukwu In Bed? By Babayola Toungo (GAMJI) It is amazing how insignificant events can shake the Adamawa State government to its very foundations and by extension Atiku Abubakar. Since May 7th, 2005 the State has not been the same again. The whole machinery of the state is deployed towards making Marwa look stupid, Details
Beyond Baba Shege's Homily To The Nigerian Actors' Guild.
By Nnaemeka Oruh
(GAMJI) Fascinating how the Nigerian movie industry (popularly known as NOLLYWOOD) became the third best in the world. Yet if one considers the abundance of talents in the country, one will not be too surprised. Details
Obasanjo Scores Some Marks. By Dr. Johnson Odesola (GAMJI) A lthough hackneyed, the phrase “Give the devil his due,” is appropriate this time. Specifically, it’s to West African States and the African Union. The states and the AU faced and dealt with severe cases of a malaise many Africans wish away daily: bad governance that has often degenerated into state thuggery. Details
“Reverend” Pat Robertson, A Criminal, Terrorist! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) It is becoming clearer by the minute, that terrorism is not the exclusive preserve of some aberrant Muslims; terrorism is in fact, a perversity shared by some high profile Christians! “A Man of God” such as Pat Robertson, is clearly a criminal and a terrorist! Pat Robertson of the United States should wear the appellation and toga of a terrorist and criminal from now on. Details
Only in America... By Amin Y. Lame (GAMJI) Under Ohio State's ethics Law, any public official who receives a gift over $75.00, yes, seventy five, from anyone doing business with the state government must report it to the state's ethics committee. The Governor, who is in his seventh year of his four second four year term, was found guilty of not reporting golf games that were paid for by his friends and associates, totaling $6000.00 over six years. Details
Nigeria and the Anti-Corruption Crusade. By Patience Abdon Gin (GAMJI) Corruption has many faces and meanings. It could also be the same wine in different bottles. The word corruption sounds light on our tongues, but it has bedeviled and truncated our beloved Nigeria. Over the years, this ungodly torment has found solace in our minds and our dear country Nigeria. As a result, so many of our patriots and service Nigerians have suffered a great defeat in the hands of this persistent monster. Details
One on One With The Northern Governor. By Bello Abdullahi (GAMJI) If you are entitled to serve another term, I wish you good luck if not for anything but for you to heed this advice and turnaround things that will add value to your state in particular and the region in general. Details
Nigeria’s Un Permanent Seat Bid And The Tsunami Gyration Gang. By Sokore Collins E. (GAMJI) Future generations of Nigerians will not forgive us if they read that in a contest in which other contenders were Angola, Senegal, Gambia, Libya, South Africa and Egypt, we could not shine. Details
What’s Religion Got To Do With It? A Reaction to Amanze Obi. By Sahabi Garba Aliyu (GAMJI) I hold this profession, journalism, in all the esteem it deserves, and I particularly find it quite sacred. Those that find themselves in this profession should take recourse in having to share in the divine occupation of Arch Angel Gabriel (Alaihis-Salam). Details
America: Between Politico-Religious Separation And The Fear Of Terror. By Jibo Nura (GAMJI) Again, if peace maker really have the fear of God and loves the best for all, why should a violence or anarchy be his/her driving force? The ravaging of a sovereign and independent country like Iraq, even without evidence of weapons of mass destruction should have really mattered. Details
Corruption In High Places: A Decadent Society Called Nigeria. By Ritchie Ejiofor (GAMJI) El-Rufai represent hope at this time of moral decadence that we have lived with for nearly a quarter of a century, it about time we emulate this very bold step and start the revolution to clean sweep our society and country’s image that has for long become enmeshed with corruption as our own landmark. Details
Re-strategsing to Eradicate Poliomyelitis in Northern Nigeria. By Dr. Murtala Muhammad Umar (GAMJI) The measures of health indices in Northern Nigeria such as maternal and under five mortality rates etc are far above the country’s average. We cannot afford to be left behind. We must realize that our children and children’s children would not forgive us for denying them access to immunization only to be crippled in later life. Let us cooperate to re ranked Nigeria among its pairs like Ghana and Botswana that have achieved up to 90% polio immunization coverage. Details
The Media in Nigeria II. By Seyi Oduyela (GAMJI) The Nigerian media has been credited for standing against the oppressive rule of the Military and was said to have been part of the struggle that removed the military from power. During the military era, we witnessed in Nigeria publications like Tell, Details
Taylor, George Bush; Are Moral Equivalents! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) President Bush and President Taylor are both warmongers! They both subscribe to the Clauswitzian theory or mantra, to the effect that war is the pursuit of public policy by other means, violent means, one might add. Details
If We Want to be Serious About Public Accountability By Ndukwe Uche (GAMJI) If a Manager entrusted with huge sums of money is not required to deliver any measurable results, what is the motivation for such a Manager to use the money wisely? Against what unstated vapour can anyone tell whether the Manager is managing the money wisely or not? Details
ActionAid International organized a West African High Level Meeting on the United Nations Reform in Abuja to debate and raise awareness on the issues and concerns of Africa and its peoples within the proposed UN reform agenda DETAILS
Ngige at the Last Bus Stop. By Hussaini Sani Kagara (GAMJI) Before now democracy in Anambra has been turn upside down; people have been deliberately disenfranchised; the rule of law has been abandoned and justice postponed by the power that be, lawlessness become the rule and law become an exception, what do you expect? Of course, godfathers having grazing day to display their vim and vigor of influence. Details
The Ban on Street Trading in Lagos is Wrong. By Obadiah Oghoerore Alegbe (GAMJI) It is most unfortunate that in a country like ours where everybody is struggling independently to make ends meet, those in power are bent on making life impossible for the people. Details
Banning Commercial Motor Bike. By Anthony A. Akinola (GAMJI) It is sad that the well-admired Minister of the Federal Capital Territory waited for an ugly incident to occur in Lagos before proposing his ban on the use of motorcycles for transportation in the city of Abuja. Nevertheless, he deserves our praise for not doing things in the manner of the military. It is commendable that the users of motorcycles have been given sufficient notice to find alternative means of livelihood before the proposed ban on their activities commences. Details
Atiku And The Anti Corruption War. By Tola Alice Ogundoyin (GAMJI) As the country moves towards another election year, the boundary line between the President’s politics and his war against corruption will attract more interest and more controversy. Details
Judith Miller; Woman of Character, Courage, Integrity & Principles! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) What did Judith Miller do? Many civil libertarians outside of the United States see America as the beacon of hope and an epitome of freedom, liberty, democracy and all that is good. Jailing journalists sends the wrong message Details
A Vice-President And His Governor-Friends. By Jonathan Manok(GAMJI) Given the increasing enthusiasm as to who succeeds President Obasanjo in 2007, analysts and prediction experts are having a busy moment examining the qualifications of individuals covetously eyeing General Obasanjo’s seat. If events of succession should follow their natural pattern, most sensible calculations may regard Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the logical choice to replace his boss in 2007. Details
Reconstructing Nigeria for Development and Sustainable Peace: A Pragmatic Roadmap. By Orji Uzor Kalu (GAMJI) Given the increasing enthusiasm as to who succeeds President Obasanjo in 2007, analysts and prediction experts are having a busy moment examining the qualifications of individuals covetously eyeing General Obasanjo’s seat. Details
Democracy, the Anambra Experiment. By Ayara Dennis Omeiza (GAMJI) Nigeria government since 1999 has not hidden their disdain for imported goods. Hence the ban on importation of some items which can be manufactured locally to stimulate the growth of the economy, the effect of this ban has been felt in all segment of the society, and it affects both the economy and the political atmosphere of the country. Details
Verdict on Ngige: Grounds for jubilation? By Ikenna O. Ezenekwe (GAMJI) Who amongst us would deny the influence of President Obasanjo PDP in hand delivering the recent verdict to Peter Obi via the tribunal – possibly for the sole purpose of embarrassing Ngige and for the continuance of perturbations to quake the little prosperous run the state has enjoyed so far. Details
Bank Consolidation: Reform Or Die? By Olatunde Anthony (GAMJI) A good case in point was the recent forbearance granted 13 weak banks owing the Bank a whooping N75billion. If the CBN had not granted these banks forbearance last April, they would have had their nunc dimities. The impact would have been devastating. Over 7000 jobs would have been lost by the closure of these 13 banks, while a total of N108 billion in uninsured deposit and other sundry deposits would have been lost. Details
Newspaper Vendors, AEPB and the Strike. By Emeka Oraetoka (GAMJI) It was also gathered that when complaints of the nuisance activities of vendors in central area, comprising NICON Hilton junction and some parts of federal secretariat; got to the authorities in AEPB, they were asked to stop hawking papers around there areas. They however, did not heed the order of AEPB. Reports have it that these vendors are on daily basis constituting nuisance in these areas; to the embarrassment of not even the people living in FCT, but foreign visitors; especially around NICON hotel. Details
The Hawkish North, Foxy West and Nude Niger Delta. By Sokore Collins Erebi (GAMJI) The predicted failure of the national political reform conference is a clear opportunity for well meaning Nigerians to ensure that this country which was maliciously amalgamated and subsequently decolonized by her imperial majesty does not go the way of a failed project because of the desire of a morally bankrupt cabal in the north and their surrogate in the south to undermine other regions of the country. Details
The Story of Sex in the Nigerian Community. By Sabella Ogbobode Abidde (GAMJI) Today’s Nigeria is vastly and radically different from the Nigeria of yester-years. Women, especially those between the ages of 18-40 are almost like their western counterparts: independent, assertive, aggressive and competitive, and can, in most cases, go toe-to-toe with a man. And whether this is good or bad for the well being of the society is beyond the scope of this missive. Details
Northern/Southern Nigeria: A Structured Discrepancy? By Ikenna O. Ezenekwe (GAMJI) The fact is the northerners have outperformed the southerners time and time again -politically and otherwise as a group. The assertion is not based on a suggestion either but on the reality on the grounds. Northerners have had an edge over the southerners ever since the early 1900s and not just due to the perils of the recent war but long before the war. Details
The Aftermath of the Illegal Confab... By Muhammad Bashir (GAMJI) On the contrary-where the raison detre behind such a conference remains nothing other than selfish presidential blueprint to pursue a self-perpetuation or regional marginasation agenda as was the case with recent Obasanjo’s one-man show deceitfully tagged ‘National Political Reform conference; the outcome remains a failure and the aftermath national confusion, chaos and probable disintegration of the country involved. Details
Start Paying Attention. By Deola Ndanusa (GAMJI) If Wole Soyinka in one of his many pontifications declared his age group a wasted "generation", then what can we call ourselves, a "castrated generation", and by who? We may find the answer in our almost senile and physically finished leaders from the 60's era and their anointed sons and daughters who seem to have a lock on governance in Nigeria. Details
Trip To Ghana. By Sule Ya’u Sule (GAMJI) The good name, which Malam Ibrahim Shekarau is fast building for himself, is also catching on across the West African sub region and beyond. A recent trip to Ghana revealed how much Africans beyond Nigeria identify with the integrity project. Like a goldfish Malam’s well-known reputation for Honesty, Probity and Fear of God cannot be hidden. Details
Isha Allah, Apo Six Will Not Die in Vain. By Ndubụeze Godson III (GAMJI) Nigeria as far as this writer is responsible does not need an army what she rather needs is a well trained civil defense unit that will encompass both community policing and border watch. A path with the United Nation will secure the necessary safeguard in case of any eventuality. I will broker no delay to ask the violent supporters of the military to tell us how many external wars Nigeria have undertaken? Details
Debt Relief For Nigeria, A Bogey? By Baba Kabiru Isa (GAMJI) While many have criticized the entire deal upon which the relief was premised as pyrrhic and callous, others viewed the recent euphoria with which many Nigerians, especially the president and his aides relished the debt relief as a big hoax. Details
Is Ahmadu Bello University Ripe for the Dress Code? By Usman, Sule Machika (GAMJI) It doesn’t matter whether it was on an Islamic, Catholic-Nun-Dress, or even on the half nude-dress-babes. After all it is a campus, ‘where everything goes’! Our concern is that the academic serene, the peace and tranquility the university is presently enjoying must not be punctured for us. Details
Youth: Tools For Political Achievement. By Okoro Akpoidevo .O. (GAMJI) Whatever the case might be, when all said has been done, after all the fat- envelops has flattened with no traces but with the ‘metal-tools’ still in the possession of the ‘galants’; the only alternative left is to put them to use again this time by perpetuating the well known act------armed-robbery. The government has therefore succeeded in breeding and introducing new thieves that would roam and devour unsuspecting citizens who they somewhat prevent periodically from exercising their franchise at the polls.Details
Edo State: Any Hope for the Minority? By Ayara Dennis Omeiza (GAMJI) If people are privileged to choose state, region and country of their choice, certainly, people from Edo-North Senatorial district would have looked else-where. Suffice it to say that, some Nigerians would probably have chosen modern and a saner country than our dear country. Details
RE: The British Dreamers and the American Sightseers. By Abba Anwar (GAMJI) Agreed that billions of dollars were stolen from oil revenue by the northern leaders over the years. May be it was because they ruled the country more than any other person since independence. But mark you the same north produced 2 leaders that are seen as the most transparent in the country. They are no more than the leadership of Generals Murtala Ramat Muhammad and Muhammadu Buhari. Details
George Taubman Goldie-the Founder of Nigeria (2). By Tatabonko Orok Edem (GAMJI) Even though, Goldie did not have the high profile of Lugard who was greatly admired by Flora Shaw, the Times correspondent whom he later married, Goldie’s genius was in laying a concept of indirect rule on the emirates, which Lugard was instructed to follow. Details
Gov Abdullahi Adamu’s Dubious Patriotism. By Ugochukwu Ejinkeonye (GAMJI) Adamu should, please, spare us this insufferable hypocrisy and dubious patriotism which constitute the distinguishing features of the PDP and the government it imposed on us in Abuja. We are utterly sick and tired of the party and all it stands for. Adamu should know by now that no one is impressed by the counterfeit patriotism he is parading. Details
The Politics Of Nuclear Arms – America’s Grand Plan. By Bello Abdullahi (GAMJI) So long as America does not drop its “Grand Plan” of dismantling the arms of other countries while together with its cohort, Israel, they continue to stock-pile, so long as America does not drop its senseless crusade of fighting Islam and Muslims, so long as America does not change its policy of divide and support in the Middle-East, the World will never be nuclear arms free. Details
The NEEDS Versus Our Needs: What an Encounter! By Mohmmed A. Adamu (GAMJI) At forty-five Nigeria has well come of age to conceive, plan, implement, sustain and serve a long-term economic development strategy. The national economic development strategy, NEEDS or National Economic Empowerment Development Strategy conceived by Obasanjo administration is a right step in the right direction. Details
Patrimony in Disarray. By Abubakar Kamara Mohammed (GAMJI) From 1999-2003,Governor Saminu Turaki competed bumper to bumper with the President on who to visit this and that island first. Aso Rock now cheers and yawn that the much criticized trips has paid off with the recent pseudo debt relief while Governor Saminu is slapping backs with bootlickers in the name of the arrival of dividends from far away Singapore. Details
The Nigerian National Anthem and Flag as Symbols of Patriotism and Indoctrination? By Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) The Nigerian Flag on the other hand, is so rare to come about, and in the few places where you find them they are either torn or rumpled so bad, on a make-shift poles that you wonder if our leaders in Government and people ever consider such symbols as important at all. All Americans can fly the American Flag on their cars and buses, and you are allowed to display it in your apartment. In Nigeria the police would arrest you or pull you over, if you dare parade the Flag. Details
Suicide Bombers And Martyrdom. By Komar Disu (GAMJI) The gloom fact of the world we live in today is that the people labeled as extremists and terrorists are not more recruited by the so-called anti-Western Mullahs calling to Jihad in abstruse madrasa in Pakistan or in Nigeria; promising the cited sexual pleasure, than they could be motivated by the western popular culture itself which is already heavily invested with both drug and violence. Details
In Defence of Assassins. By Remi Oyeyemi (GAMJI) How can people be so mean? How can they be so inconsiderate? How can they be so biased and jaundiced in their opinions? How can so many people be crying wolf where there is none? Why would people want to make other innocent hardworking Nigerians look so bad? Could this be envy or jealousy? What could be the motive for this character assassination of the members of the Association of Nigerian Professional Assassins (ANPA)? Details
Open Letter To El-Rufai On Housing For Workers. By Yushau A. Shuaib (GAMJI) As laudable as your foresight is, there is fear over the implementation of this lofty project in terms of the processes, procedures and execution not to talk of purchasing power of the potential landlords. Details
TRANSCORP PLC – Another White Elephant Project? By Bello Abdullahi (GAMJI) Going from the inaugural speech of Mr. President that night, Transcorp Plc may end up being the largest company in Nigeria, considering the amount of foreign exchange the government intends to pump, the company’s divergence in the key sectors of the economy, and its foreign connection. Details
Obasanjo And The Years The Locusts Have Eaten. By Madaki O. Ameh (GAMJI) When President Obasanjo assumed the mantle of leadership of Nigeria in May 1999, one of his early promises which still resonates in my mind is that he would, within a short period, restore the years the locusts have eaten. He had also promised then, that ordinary Nigerians would feel the positive impact of his administration’s policies within the first six months, and that their lives would begin to transform for the better within the first full year in office. Details
President Charles Taylor of Nigeria. By Kevin Etta Jr. (GAMJI) Certain developments in Nigeria have cast a very dark shadow over an already paling profile of Nigeria nationally and internationally, to the extent that there is need to, once again, ring a note of warning and alarm before it is too late and the unexpected overtakes the unexpecting. Details
Blueprint to the Nigerian Revolution. By Douglas Akunia (GAMJI) The culture of hard work and honesty is gone even though we have more churches per capita than probably any country in the world. The pursuit of luxury and privilege usually without the hard work is dizzying. A look at who owns most of the oil blocks and who gets most of the contracts and a look at a list of the richest people in Nigeria will show cronyism and nepotism at work. Details
2007 A Parameter For Judging Mr President’s Commitment To Good Governance And Fighting Corruption. By Okeke Chikaodili (GAMJI) As the battle towards who succeeds President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2007, enters its decisive stage, many, if not all true citizens of Nigerian believe that the outcome of the 2007 general elections and who succeeds the President himself will surely become the platform and parameter on which the President’s so called commitment to economic, political reforms and his desire to eliminate corruption in Nigeria will be ascertained, judged and determined. Details
The British Dreamers and the American Sightseers. By Miles Opara (GAMJI) While the south-south and the Yorubas lack the courage to secede, the Hausa/Fulani are only waiting to find the slightest oil well in their region before declaring their Islamic Republic. Anything more than this, is a tame version. Nigeria is a tribalistic entity and will continue loosing it's footing and falling. Details
Annan: A Quiet Revolution in the United Nations. By Nduka Uzuakpundu
(GAMJI)
The on-going attempt by Mr. Kofi Annan, the
Secretary-General of the United Nations, to reform the world body has
opened up a lively debate and series of intervention by member-states. The
main focus of the reform, which is informed by the bombing of the United
States on September 11, 2001, is the Security Council.
Details
Review of Cleopas Angaye’s Technology Development Vision for NITDA. By Femi Oyesanya For those that view Information Technology as an alternative source of wealth creation for developing countries such as Nigeria, a recent vision presentation by the new Director General of NITDA, Cleopas Angaye, needs to be carefully studied. Details
A Response to Paul Mamza's Nigeria’s Unsung Heroes. By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) It is refreshingly different and a welcomed relief, to witness a Nigerian Public Intellectual of Paul Mamza’s stature, discuss a Nigerian patriot, even though General Idiagbon is no longer with us, which means that Professor Mamza could not be accused of praise-singing or sycophancy in anticipation of some sorts of favor or appointment, from his subject! General Idiagbon deserves to be written about! Details
UN Reforms:Neo-Conservatives Versus Annan. By Nduka Uzuakpundu (GAMJI) For the Bush administration, which, in the past three years, has unveiled itself as a den of neo-conservative Republicans, it is a little difficult to come to terms with its disposition to the Annan-planned reforms – if, indeed, it’s the same Washington that’s trying to spread the gospel of freedom and democracy to all corners of the world. details
Albatross Around The Police Neck. By Mohmmed A. Adamu (GAMJI) In a nutshell, if stories told by new recruits, who have being there and seen it all, are anything to go by then, the “black uniform” is simply up for grabs for whoever is willing to pay the “royalty”. Indeed, it was a case of “ the highest bidder”. An intelligent and patriotic friend of mine sat for the recruitment exams twice but failed just because he refused to oil the hand or scratch the back of the examiners. Interestingly the young man insists he would not bribe, as his mission was to police the society. Details
Open letter to the Political Class. By Ali Alhaji Ibrahim (GAMJI) Sir(s) remember that one day you will retire fro active politics or service and how would you feel if your pension is denied? If you think you need no pension after retirement because you have accumulated enough ill-gotten wealth, have fat account in Europe, investment in and outside the country including shares in reputable companies and assets especially landed properties in Abuja and else where in the country, have dozens of commercial and private flashy cars for your luxury so on and so forth. Sir(s) If you think so, you are wrong and I repeat you are wrong Details
Mauritania Coup in the Context of African Politics. By Okechukwu Nwaru (GAMJI) A fundamental question that needs to be asked is this: who is in a better position to determine the destiny of Mauritania, than Mauritanians themselves? A number of important facts need to be borne in mind before anyone could assess whether the action of the coup plotters is justifiable. Details
NATIONAL POLITICAL REFORM CONFERENCE WHERE THE NORTH STANDS SIGNED ALHAJI MAGAJI DAMBATTA, OFR All told it is gladdening that the National Conference has confirmed the hopes of all those who believe Nigeria will come out stronger through a frank and forthright dialogue over its problems. The Northern delegates in particular are happy that the region spoke with one voice on virtually all issues, in the context of an even greater national unity. DETAILS
Debt Relief: A Motion Without Movement. By Muhammad Bashir (GAMJI) Media commotion and official drumbeating have characterized the Nigerian nation in recent times over a rumored debt relief gesture granted by the Paris club of lender nations to Nigeria under conditional circumstances....the whole saga is anything but official skullduggery or, if put mildly, an official exaggeration – there is nothing rejoiceable to me and to those who share the same intellectual psyche with me if the Paris club will call off everything that has to do with Nigeria’s debt today or tomorrow. Details
How to Tackle Corruption Effectively in Nigeria. By Sam Ejike Okoye (GAMJI) Bribery, which is an important aspect of corruption, needs two parties for it to happen: the bribe giver and the bribe taker. In some countries the culture of corruption extends to every aspect of public life, making it more or less impossible to stay in business without giving bribes. Details
Re-positioning Africa for the Emergence of China. By Eustace Amuka (GAMJI) When external forces looted and left Africa bare, the other continents grew and developed. That was the beginning of the failure that has held Africa down to this day. What has remained the contentious issue to date is how to kick start her on a new path to growth and development. Details
The Presidency And Nigerian Politics: 2007. By Bekeh Utietiang (GAMJI) Here in the United States, groups have been meeting around Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia area strategizing on returning IBB to power. Buhari is still interested in being the President in 2008. The Igbo’s think they have waited so long, it is now their turn to provide the next president.Details
George Taubman Goldie-the founder of Nigeria (1). By Tatabonko Orok Edem As it most often happen during the course of British history, an individual arose within this period that changed the course of events, leading to the creation of what is now called Nigeria. That man was George Taubman Goldie. Very little is known of him Details
President Obasanjo: Good; In Substance, Symbol! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) President Obasanjo in his actions, pronouncements and even attires, reflects his passions for Nigerian/African interests and his total or complete world view. I have seen him frequently, in active pursuit of our national and continental interests, he is demonstrably patriotic Details
Let us Think About This Tax Thing. By Jamez(GAMJI) There's something about paying for things I can’t see or control that bothers me a lot. Taxation being the chief vexation of mine in this regard. I however live in both Nigeria and the United States, the later where I pay about 30-43% of my salary in taxes. Details
ECON101 For Northern Leaders. By Ahmad Zakari (GAMJI) The 19 northern governors should institute a more meaningful conference, one in which we can launch a “neo industrial revolution” in the north. Top Economists like professor Ayagi, Industrialists like Dangote and Power brokers should all meet and discuss and design a plan to jumpstart the north’s economic development together. Details
Niger: The Shame of a Continent. By Mr. Sabella Ogbobode Abidde (GAMJI) My eyes welled as I watched the insanity that is going on in Niger. Why didn’t her president and political elite help avert such calamity? Why must Africa always beg the world, especially the West, for help with such simple matters as food, water and medicine? Why? Details
On Shekarau's Human Development Policy. By Isa Muhammad Inuwa In short, the perception displayed by Kwankwaso about Shekarau government is just a common example of how some people mischievously or genuinely misunderstand the methodological approach of the government in question. Details
Getting Practical: Time To Change The Status Quo. By Femi Olawole (GAMJI) The question now however is how we can easily and quickly break with the past when some of our people still believe in “cash and carry” elections by which money is demanded before votes are cast? Details
(GAMJI) But some people may be tempted to ask: have those owing National Electric Power Authority [NEPA], now Power Holdings Plc, been killed, why the fuss about AEPB? Information had it that Nigerians’ owe NEPA a whopping sum of Five Hundred Billion Naira [500B], a debt which government said it is going ahead to manage. Details
Suicide Bombers And Martyrdom. By Adebisi I. Obafemi (GAMJI) Suicide bombers need to be told the truth. They are not martyrs but murderers. Details
Cattle in The News. By Salisu Na’inna Dambatta (GAMJI) The Nigerian media recently gave bovines, popularly known as cattle, wide attention and free publicity in their news coverage, while columnists and specialized commentators, analysed the implication of, and generally condemned, the presence of cows where they should not be – on the runway of an international airport. Details
Demystifying Yariman Bakura. By Ali Liman Abubakar (GAMJI) Very few knew him prior to the 1999 General Abdussalami Abubakar’s elections. The few who knew him then could rarely predict the character that he cuts today. Yariman Bakura as he is popularly known was then young, energetic, and what one can easily call progressive. Details
Bishop Joseph Akinyele Omoyajowo Aka "Awolumate" The Samuel Ajayi Crowther Of Akure And Isarun, And A Great Nigerian By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) It is often said and true that one tree does not a forest make. By the same token, nation-building is a task for all citizens. The bottom line is that all of us must chip in and play our own role to the best of our ability in whatever occupation we find ourselves. Details
Not a Chance, Professor S. Mustafa’s Article Can’t be True! By Ndubụeze Godson III (GAMJI) You should remind those people that even the dams in Northern Nigeria were constructed with money generated from the oil in Eastern Nigeria. That is, coupled with loans and assistance from the World Bank and other lenders, in the name of 'unu du, ndi Nigeria.' Today, everybody in Nigeria has to pay back those loans. Details
If Ehindero Fails…By Ugochukwu Ejinkeonye (GAMJI) And because Nigerians have become so distrustful and even scared of the police, when then Ehindero announced that the police under him will “serve and protect with integrity”, the citizenry, long bored sore and sickened by meaningless slogans that unceasingly ooze out from irremediably insincere and dissembling public officers, simply sneered at him. Details
A Revolt Against Northern Colonialism. By Engr. Bello Gwarzo Abdullahi MNSE (GAMJI) With the power shift achieved through a combination of intrigues and intimidation there is now a concerted effort to divide the North along tribal or religious lines. When this failed the issue of derivation became a ready-made tool to put a wedge between the North and their traditional political allies-the South-South. Details
Orji Uzor Kalu: A Failed Second Term, And A Wobbling Presidential Ambition. By Nnaemeka Oruh (GAMJI) It is not too early to assert that Orji Uzor Kalu’s second term as the Governor of Abia State has been marked by gross failures. Very few people in the state would claim ignorance that Dr. Kalu is no longer ruling the state. Details
Fight Over Oil, Legal Precedent, and Way Forward. By Rickie Dann (GAMJI) In order to move Nigeria forward, the North should be made to sit down like a little baby and be told that it is not going to be business as usual and that their time is up. They should be told that advanced economies are not driven by handouts from the center. Details
What Manner Of Election Are We Practicing In Nigeria ? By Shuaibu Ibrahim Fari (GAMJI) The reflection of Nigeria’s condition, it cannot but be noted that throughout our history, right before independence, the issue of democracy, or better still, the wrong application of it, has been central to some of our problems as a nation. Details
Biofuels Production In Northern Nigeria. By I M Bugaje (GAMJI) The collapse of General Obasanjo’s National Political Reform Conference (NPRC) had been predicted by many commentators. This was because the conference was not only unbalanced in terms of representation but was basically being engineered to satisfy the President’s agenda. Details
A Reply to Sabella Abidde’s Response to Paul Adujie on Development Problems in Africa. By Eric Ula-Lisa (GAMJI) Before the advent of the Europeans, we had a system of laws and adjudication of disputes in our little disparate communities in Africa. These systems in every part of the area now known as Nigeria had to be replaced because they were “inadequate” to meet the needs of the European visitors. Details
Who is Looking Out for Nigerians? By Ikenna O. Ezenekwe (GAMJI) The case of the environmental neglect in Nigeria grievously adds more gravitas to this notion of puppetry. It highlights the perils of Nigerian administrative faults strongest in the most public manner. The Garbage Mountains that have become a landmark in every Nigerian State implies publicly that nobody is looking out for Nigeria Details
Africa and the World: Responding to Paul Adujie. By Mr. Sabella Ogbobode Abidde (GAMJI) Yes, it is true that some of the problems facing Africa, and especially Nigeria, have their root in the slavery and colonial era. But for how long must Africans keep playing victim? Details
The Miseducation Of Our Fathers. By Francis Kizito Obeya (GAMJI) In his student days, the Nigerian undergraduate of a foreign university must have been a witness to how life is in foreign lands. Those fortunate enough to study in these United States got front seat to watch democracy in action. Details
Intellectual Bankruptcy of the African Elite ByChika Onyeani (GAMJI) A community cannot survive when its so-called educated citizens are morally and intellectually bankrupt and decrepit. You cannot have a community whose intelligentsia are mere parasites of other cultures.Details
Resource Control: A Conversational Analysis. By Abubakar Kamara Mohammed (GAMJI) Falsehood they say if ignored can potentially weaken the truth if not defeat it at one fell swoop.’ A revolt against northern colonialism authored by one Yinka Ogundiran on the print media and the Internet is total falsehood nay pseudo written. The writer failed woefully in poisoning the minds of the west-and-southern axis of our great country against the north. Which perhaps was his ulterior motive? After reading the unfledged article, I thought of writing a rejoinder on it, but I later had to make an intuitive change of mind since the intellectual classes in Nigeria has emphatically corrected such atavistic notion. Details
Laying To Rest The ‘Ghost’ Of The 2001-Attempted Sale Of NITEL TO IILL. By Ajayi Olatunji Olowo (GAMJI) It was a welcome relief when the Thisday newspaper issue of 8th July 2005 published information released from credible official sources that Investors International (London) Limited (otherwise referred to as IILL) had finally lost its highly pursued battle to recover the ten percent (10%) non-refundable deposit it paid on 12th December 2001 in the process that would have seen it acquire 51% controlling stake holding in the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) Details
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