Poverty: Nigeria’s timeless challenge by Priscilla Christopher

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Activities for Nigeria’s 55th anniversary had longed commenced; what was probably left is the dawn of this epochal day and here we are. Nigeria is celebrating another year of robust economic, infrastructural, social developments, and other strides it has recorded all the way. Without mincing words, Nigeria has truly come of age in terms of development in all sectors of its economy. There have been tremendous changes in the pattern of operation thus, leading to a sharp contrast between the ancient pattern of things and what is obtainable today. This is seen in the maturity showcased and enlightenment garnered by leaders as the years go by.

Akwa Ibom @28: Our 10 plagues BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

The news about Akwa Ibom State being a year older today has gone virile before now to the nooks and crannies of the state and country at large with mixed reactions greeting it from every sphere it is mentioned. 28 years ago, the state was born out of the desire for its founding fathers to have a place they can call their own, not just for themselves but for the good of future generations as well. Today, 28 years on, the state has manifested this dream of its founding fathers. We can now boast of a place to call our own; a place we can run to and be sheltered in times of storm, and a place of our heritage. Akwa Ibom State has as a matter of truth gone through several death valleys, murky waters and troubled times to become victorious and strong. Numerous internal and external setbacks have been on its way of progress yet, triumph has always been sure.

Addressing insecurity on School campuses

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Security, according to Wiktionary.org is the condition of  not being threatened, especially physically, psychologically, mentally, spiritually emotionally or financially by anybody or force. Issues of insecurity have often raised concern in troubled states and countries who have little or no provision for security. This is why some weak states/countries opt for support from nearby or stronger nations when it is necessary. The campus, being a unit of the larger society is also one place where insecurity is almost inevitable. Issues of cult clashes, disagreements between and among students and the school management, neighbouring disputes as well as strikes often challenge the security modalities of institutions.

Addressing addictions (2)

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

In the previous edition of this piece, the concept of addiction was analysed and defined as a  great interest in a particular thing to which a lot of time is devoted. A state of physiological or psychological dependence on a potentially harmful act or habit. Addictions are habits we find ourselves indulging in without being duly conscious of. They are attitudes we put on that apparently stand out no matter how much we try to hide them. It is an excessive involvement in a particular act which renders the performer incomplete or dissatisfied when they are unable to carry out the act as at when due. It is in summary, an unstoppable interest developed for an action for which one is always noted for.

Constituency briefing/town hall meetings: The need for citizens participation BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Due to its strategic role of lawmaking and ensuring through its oversight functions that laws made are implemented for the well being of the society, the legislature has been widely reputed as the fulcrum of democracy. Being the second arm of government after the executive, the legislature strives to make good governance possible by checking the excessive abuse of power by the executive, and by so doing, complements the judiciary arm of government.

To ensure effective representation however, those elected to serve as legislators are expected to offer selfless service to the electorate who elected them and this can only be achieved through regular interaction with the constituents through constituency visits and briefings to ascertain their needs and expectation with a view of galvanizing ideas for qualitative and purposeful legislative business. 

This forum which provides a platform for the legislature to share their experiences, hear from the constituent and get feedback on the best way to serve those who voted them to power is worth commending, hence, the ongoing constituency briefings holding at town halls provides our representatives the opportunity of presenting score cards of their achievement from the time they were elected till date. It has been observed however sadly that some viable electorate have chosen to exonerate themselves from the briefings as a result of personal grievances against representatives while some are afraid of being lynched or assaulted by armed men posing as crowd control unit boys. 

Making the International Women’s Day count BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

The International Women’s Day is held an nually on March 8 to celebrate women’s history and achievements throughout history and across nations. It is also known, as the United Nation’s (UN) Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace. The Day is aimed at helping nations worldwide eliminate discrimination against women while focusing on helping them gain full and equal participation in global development.

The International Women’s Day celebrates women’s deeds without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political, and reflects on these progresses to call for change where necessary. It is a day where acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities are applauded.

As is usually the custom, various women including political community and business leaders as well as entrepreneurs and television personalities are usually invited to speak on the importance of women in the society; their influence and issues that affects them. It is an occasion for looking back on past struggles and accomplishments and more importantly, looking ahead to the untapped potentials and opportunities that await future generations of women.

Curbing the menace of reckless driving BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Perhaps the existence of human  rights, including the right to own properties and use them at will has resulted in the abuse of some privileges one of which includes the right to use the motorways. The advent of the motor car, no doubt created a craving in the minds of those who could afford it. Subsequently, the cost of acquiring a private car dwindled to an extremely affordable rate; making it a disposable commodity even among the middle class.

Sequel to this, those belonging to the wealthy class saw this competition as a race which must be won. Other brands of exorbitant cars started coming into view. The likes of SUV, Prado, Hummer and others became the ‘in-vogue’ object in the minds of the rich, particularly the politicians who acquired them to showcase their wealth. Then came the giving out of some of these cars to relatives, friends and others who with little or no knowledge of how to drive, receive the gifts from the ‘philanthropists’ with glee.

Governor Akpabio and critics BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

As the Akpabio led administration draws to a close, it has been observed that tongues have been wagging and ink is being spilled on every platform to create a defaming image of the leader of the administration and this expression of disapproval and giving of opinions about the administration’s faults and qualities by critics have now given rise to side talks, oppositions and enmity between the administration and her close allies.

As far as politics is concerned, there is no perfect system where everybody’s wish is granted, but as long as a majority of the populace is satisfied with the developmental strides and benefits of democracy, we can then say that democracy is justified. This is not to say however, that fair and accurate judgments about the qualities of such administration should not be made to promote the variety of options necessary for a true democracy.