LIST OF REASONS

The conventional wisdom that democracy is the best form of government is challenged by the observation that its strengths are relative, not absolute, and contingent on the context of the governed, the governing, and the underlying institutions. While most people, regardless of political affiliation, harbor high hopes for democracy, especially when they believe they can manipulate its levers, the reality often falls short of these expectations. The flaws of democracy, particularly the potential for the “tyranny of the majority,” are rooted in the inherent limitations of political markets and the cognitive biases of voters. Public Choice economics highlights the foibles of political markets, including the disproportionate power of interest groups, the unjust exercise of power by the general public, and the misuse of power to redistribute resources. Rational ignorance, a concept central to this critique, posits that voters, possessing minimal influence in political outcomes, find it econo...

Long ago, the way people measured time was deeply influenced by both practicality and belief in luck. In the early days of Rome, the calendar was very different from what we use today. Originally, the Roman calendar had only 10 months, leaving a gap during the winter months. To better reflect the cycles of the moon and to create a more complete record of the year, the legendary King Numa Pompilius added two months—January and February—to the calendar. However, this was not done solely to account for missing days; it was also influenced by the Romans’ belief that even numbers were unlucky. To avoid the misfortune associated with even numbers, Numa carefully restructured the days in each month. Many of the original months had 30 days, but he reduced these by one to make them 29 days long, because odd numbers were considered more favorable. This adjustment was a clever attempt to blend the requirements of an accurate calendar with the superstitions that permeated Roman society. Yet, mathe...

Concerns are escalating regarding Nigeria's status, with discussions increasingly pointing towards the nation's categorization as a failed state. This assessment stems from a confluence of factors, notably the country's crumbling infrastructure, the severe decline in essential utility services within critical sectors like education and healthcare, and the alarming deterioration of fundamental human development indicators. These indicators, including infant mortality and literacy rates, paint a grim picture of the nation's current state. Furthermore, Nigeria is grappling with rampant corruption, which has created an environment where honest economic activity is stifled, and a negative growth rate persists. The economic downturn is particularly stark, with the Nigerian naira reaching unprecedented lows against the dollar, a clear indicator of the nation's financial instability. Compounding these issues is the bold and unprecedented act of a terrorist organization dire...

Nigeria remains a land of opportunities and unique advantages, particularly when compared to living abroad. Many Nigerians seek to migrate to foreign countries in search of better economic prospects, but there are compelling reasons why staying in Nigeria could be a better choice. First, Nigeria’s weather is far more favorable than the extreme conditions experienced in many parts of the world. Unlike the harsh winters of Europe, North America, or some parts of Asia, Nigeria enjoys a tropical climate that does not require residents to endure freezing temperatures or excessive heating costs. The relatively stable weather conditions mean that people can go about their daily activities without the added stress of seasonal disruptions. Another major advantage is Nigeria’s food. Nigerian cuisine is diverse, nutritious, and rich in cultural significance. Fresh, organic ingredients are readily available at local markets, unlike in many Western countries where processed and genetically modified...

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has reaffirmed her commitment to visiting her constituency for the Sallah celebrations despite a ban on rallies and public gatherings imposed by the Kogi State Government. She dismissed speculations that she had canceled her visit and assured her supporters that all necessary arrangements had been made for a successful event. In a statement released by her media team on Tuesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that she remains steadfast in her role as a representative of the people and is dedicated to fostering unity and cooperation within her community. She encouraged her constituents to join her in celebrating Eid-el-Fitr, reiterating her unwavering support for the development and progress of Kogi Central. Her announcement came shortly after the state government declared a restriction on public gatherings, citing security concerns. The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, stated that intelligence repo...

The Federal Government’s naira-for-crude policy is expected to continue as officials recognize its significant impact on fuel prices and other economic indicators. The first phase of the six-month deal, involving the Federal Government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and Dangote Petroleum Refinery, ended on March 31, 2025. However, discussions are underway for its renewal, despite Dangote Refinery ceasing the sale of refined petroleum products in naira following the deal’s expiration. Reports indicate that Dangote Refinery processed approximately 400,000 barrels per day of crude oil in 2025, with around 35% of the supply sourced from international imports. This translates to about 140,000 barrels per day and a total of 12.6 million barrels imported within three months. To diversify its supply, the refinery has begun sourcing crude oil from Brazil and Equatorial Guinea, reflecting concerns over domestic availability. The first shipment of one million barrels of Braz...

The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has intensified its operations against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta, leading to significant arrests and dismantling of illicit refineries. In a coordinated effort with other security agencies, troops arrested 39 suspected oil thieves and destroyed 18 illegal refining sites across the region. Additionally, over 60,000 litres of stolen petroleum products were confiscated during a special six-day operation spanning multiple states. Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, detailed the operation's success, citing key interceptions in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states. In Rivers State, troops intercepted a twin tank containing 18,000 litres of stolen products, alongside a MAN Diesel container truck attempting to smuggle crude oil concealed with sawdust. Further seizures included thousands of litres of stolen crude oil from makeshift refining sites across the region. In Bayelsa...

In a bid to enhance electricity supply in Ondo State, Lincs Power Energy Solutions has donated a 5-megawatt power project to Ondo town. The initiative, which is expected to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents, was facilitated by Mr. Olumbe Akinkugbe, a former Senior Special Assistant to the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu on ICT. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, the Project Manager of Lincs Power Energy Solutions, Mr. Otinniyi Micheal, stated that the power project would later be upgraded to 20 megawatts. This expansion is aimed at ensuring a reliable electricity supply to the entire Ondo State and its neighboring communities. He commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his support and encouragement, expressing confidence that the project would be completed as scheduled. Akinkugbe emphasized that the donation marked a significant step in addressing the electricity challenges in Ondo West Local Government and beyond. He assured residents that Lincs ...

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced plans to establish 18 innovation hubs across tertiary institutions in Nigeria by 2025 as part of efforts to strengthen research and technological advancement in the country. This initiative aligns with the Fund’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving among Nigerian academics and researchers. The Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, made this known at the closing ceremony of the 30th Cohort of the Research for Impact (R4i) initiative, held at Innov8 Technology Hub in Abuja. He emphasized that education and research play a crucial role in nation-building and sustainable development, highlighting the necessity of equipping institutions with facilities that encourage innovation and knowledge application. The R4i programme, in collaboration with Innov8 Technology Hub, aims to enhance the capacity of researchers and academics to conduct impactful, solution-driven research that...

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has called on paramilitary agencies in the state to intensify patrols to prevent crime and criminality. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among various security agencies to maintain peace and stability, stressing that meaningful development can only thrive in a secure environment. Ibas made this statement during a meeting with heads of paramilitary organizations at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday. He acknowledged their contributions to maintaining law and order in Rivers State and urged them to participate actively in joint operations designed to weaken the capabilities of criminal elements. According to Ibas, criminals gain ground when law-abiding citizens are unable to conduct their legitimate businesses freely. He, therefore, stressed the need for security agencies to prioritize the interests of the people and the nation while carrying out their duties. Ibas directed the paramilitary ...