society
Nigeria Is Not a Dead Country: Our Politics Is Rotten, But Our Potential Is Limitless
Nigeria Is Not a Dead Country: Our Politics Is Rotten, But Our Potential Is Limitless.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
Nigeria is not a dead country. That truth must ring louder than the lies sold by cynical politicians and echoed by frustrated citizens. Nigeria is not a failed state; it is a hijacked one. It has been captured by a parasitic political class from top to bottom, soaked in corruption, nepotism, mediocrity and selfishness. Let us be clear: Nigeria still breathes. It still beats with the rhythm of resilience, talent and untapped greatness. As the legendary Fela Kuti said, “My people are scared of the air around them, they always have an excuse not to fight for freedom.” Even in our disillusionment, hope still shines.
It is not that we don’t have problems. We have plenty. Nigeria is plagued by chronic insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure, epileptic power supply, tribal divisions and a broken educational system. Our leaders, past and present, have largely failed us. They loot without shame and govern without vision. Whether in Aso Rock or in the state houses, most of them treat public office like a buffet table; eat as much as you can while it lasts. But despite all this, we must not write off our nation. Our problem is leadership, not a lack of national potential.
“Talent No Be By Region, E Dey Inside Person”
There has been renewed talk about restructuring and regional government. Fine. But we must not fall into the trap of thinking structure alone will save us. Leadership is not about location; it’s about capacity, vision and moral integrity. As AY the comedian once joked, “If dem give some people heaven, dem go still sell the golden gates!” The truth is, if you give a dullard a well-structured system, he will still crash it. A leader without direction is like a plane with no pilot; you’re headed for disaster no matter how fine the aircraft is.
We need to stop romanticizing systems without addressing the characters we put into those systems. Regional government without competent leaders is like pouring water into a basket. From federal to local level, bad leadership has been the virus spreading across our land. From fake credentials to forged NYSC certificates, padded budgets to phantom projects, corruption has been the thread that ties many of our so-called leaders together.
It would be dishonest to say all is lost. We still have exceptional Nigerians doing amazing things at home and abroad. In tech, entertainment, sports, science and medicine, Nigerians are winning. From Burna Boy selling out stadiums globally, to Tobi Amusan breaking records in athletics, to Nigerian tech startups attracting global investments (this country is pregnant with brilliance. It’s not the people who have failed Nigeria) it is the political system and those who manipulate it for selfish ends (stomach infrastructure).
A Country of Dreams Trapped in a Nightmare of Governance
Nigeria is the only country where talented youths are told to pray more than they plan. The same pastors cum politicians who don’t provide jobs ask you to “sow seed” for breakthrough. The same people who steal your future tell you to “believe in God’s time.” As Falz rapped in his protest anthem “This is Nigeria,”
“There’s plenty Wahala sha, but we dey manage am, corruption and greed still dey carry am.”
Why must the average Nigerian suffer because a few people at the top lack EMPATHY, CONSCIENCE and COMPETENCE? Why should a country blessed with oil, gas, cocoa, bitumen, gold, arable land and etc still depend on importation of fuel and food? Why should we be in 2025 still talking about ELECTRICITY like it’s a LUXURY? Even Somalia is stabilizing its grid. Yet Nigeria, the so-called “Giant of Africa,” remains a DWARF in DEVELOPMENT.
Youths Are Not Lazy; They Are Angry
The average Nigerian youth is not lazy. The average Nigerian youth is angry. Angry that our universities are shut down for months due to strikes, while politicians send their children abroad. Angry that N-Power and other schemes are just political Ponzi programs. Angry that we get blamed for not being patriotic while those in power loot the nation dry and fly out for medical treatment.
The truth is, we cannot build a new Nigeria with the same old mindset. As comedian Bovi once said, “Nigeria is the only country where the poor fight themselves while protecting the rich who are oppressing them.” And he is right. We need to stop idolizing thieves in agbada and begin holding them accountable; whether they are in PDP, APC, LP or any other POLITICAL GANG masquerading as a PARTY.
We must change the culture that celebrates criminals and shames the honest. We need new leaders not recycled bandits in suits. And above all, we must believe in Nigeria; not the government, not the politicians, but in the country itself and what it can be with the right people at the helm.
Our Strength Is in Our People
From ABA to ZARIA, from LAGOS to ENUGU, Nigerians are hardworking. Our ENTREPRENEURS don’t wait for government handouts. Our ARTISTS, TECH FOUNDERS, FARMERS and MARKET WOMEN/ MEN show resilience every day. Despite having little support, they keep going. That’s why we must not let the political rot define us. We are more than our politicians. We are not a people of failure, but are a PEOPLE SURVIVING and THRIVING in spite of failure.
In the words of Burna Boy: “My country people suffer, suffer… dem dey pray for blessing, but them no dey plan.” It’s time we stop PRAYING alone and start PLANNING, ORGANIZING, VOTING WISELY and DEMANDING ACCOUNTABILITY.
We must return to the idea that patriotism includes demanding better, not blind loyalty to leaders who treat governance like a family business. We must understand that Nigeria’s salvation lies not in any messiah, tribe or religion; but in an informed, united and determined citizenry.
No Region Is Better; No Tribe Holds the Key
Whether Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Tiv, Urhobo or Idoma, no group has a monopoly on intelligence or stupidity. The notion that leadership will improve if a certain region rules is pure FALSE. We have had presidents from the North. West and the South, Christians and Muslims, military and civilian; and yet Nigeria remains on the SAME SPOT, sometimes worse.
The problem is not where our leaders come from, but what they bring with them. If they come with empty heads and corrupt hearts, the result will be more pain. This is not rocket science. Nations don’t develop by magic; they develop by vision, discipline and courageous leadership.
We Must Reclaim Our Narrative
Let’s stop saying Nigeria is DEAD. Let’s stop the DOOMSDAY TALK. That’s the narrative they want to sell so we give up and let them continue to ruin us. Nigeria is alive, but in a coma of BAD LEADERSHIP. We must be the OXYGEN. We must be the VOICE that wakes her up. As Mr Macaroni says in his skits, “You are doing well… NOT!” that sarcasm is the daily reality of Nigeria. We are not doing well and pretending we are won’t fix anything. Neither will despair.
It’s time to RISE, to THINK, to SPEAK and to ACT. Nigeria is our country (not their estate. We don’t need saints in office) we need sensible people. Not angels (just accountable humans. Not perfect systems) just functional ones with transparency and fairness.
Final Word
Nigeria is not dead, but she’s being strangled slowly by those who were meant to protect her. We cannot continue to watch in silence. We must SPEAK, ACT and DEMAND BETTER, if we don’t, we are ACCOMPLICES to our own DOWNFALL.
Leadership is not about tribe, religion, political party or region; it is about VISION, DISCIPLINE and ACTION. And if the person no get am, no be regional government go give am. If e no dey, e no dey!
Let’s build a Nigeria that reflects the strength of her PEOPLE and not the greed of her politicians.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
Education
COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION
COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION
University of Abuja SUG President Unveils 6-Day Programme Focused on Leadership, Innovation, Culture, and Student Unity
ABUJA, NIGERIA — The President of the Students’ Union Government, University of Abuja, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO) has officially unveiled the schedule of activities for SUG WEEK 2026, scheduled to hold from 18th to 23rd May, 2026, at the University of Abuja.
In an official release to the general public, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu stated that this year’s edition is designed as a comprehensive student engagement and development programme aimed at promoting leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, culture, intellectual interaction, entertainment, sportsmanship, and social integration within the university community.
“SUG Week 2026 is not merely a celebration, but a reflection of purposeful student leadership and the collective spirit of the University of Abuja student community, ”Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu said. “I encourage every student to participate actively, represent their faculties and departments positively, and make the most of this platform for growth and unity.”
Building on a Record of Student-Centred Governance
Under the leadership of Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu, the current administration, has introduced several initiatives to improve student engagement and institutional representation. These include the unveiling of the official SUG Website, presentation of SUG Buses, development of strategic partnerships, presentation of the SUG Magazine, and various welfare and empowerment-driven programmes.
With the approval and support of University Management led by the Vice-Chancellor, *Prof. Abdulhakeem Fawehinmi Babatunde*, SUG Week 2026 has been structured to provide students with opportunities for networking, creativity, intellectual participation, relaxation, and campus-wide unity.
`
SUG WEEK 2026 Schedule of Activities
Day 1 – Monday, 18th May: Corporate Day
Official Launch & Unveiling
1. Official Unveiling of the SUG Website
2. Presentation and Commissioning of the SUG Buses
3. Presentation of the SUG Magazine
4. Award Presentation Ceremony
5. Leadership and Innovation Summit
6. Networking Session
The opening ceremony will feature distinguished personalities, public office holders, institutional stakeholders, business leaders, and guests from across the country.
Day 2 – Tuesday, 19th May: Old School Day
Inter-Faculty Debate Competition
A day dedicated to celebrating culture, creativity, and intellectual engagement through vintage-themed appearances and an inter-faculty debate competition.
Day 3 – Wednesday, 20th May: Jersey Day
Sports & Health Awareness
Focus on fitness, wellness, sportsmanship, and health awareness through sporting activities, recreational engagements, and sensitisation programmes.
Day 4 – Thursday, 21st May: Denim Day
Career & Entrepreneurship Day
Empowering students with career development opportunities, entrepreneurship knowledge, mentorship, networking, and innovation-driven discussions.
Day 5 – Friday, 22nd May: Fashion Show Day
Fashion Display & Runway Experience
Students will showcase creativity, talent, fashion expression, and entertainment through runway displays and coordinated fashion activities.
Day 6 – Saturday, 23rd May: Fake Wedding / Owambe Finale
Grand Finale
The grand social and cultural finale brings students together through music, culture, fashion, food, entertainment, and social interaction.
Call to Action
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu and the Students’ Union Government encourage all students to take part in the week’s activities and uphold the spirit of unity and excellence that defines the University of Abuja.
Students interested in volunteering, participating, partnering, sponsoring, modelling, or engaging in any activity are advised to send a direct message to the Union through the provided contacts.
For Sponsorship and Partnership: +234 810 593 0335
Signed:
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO)
President, Students’ Union Government (SUG)
University of Abuja
society
REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE
REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE.
The recent publication titled “Enugu Nursing College Faces Backlash for Using DSS, Police to Intimidate Student Nurse for Exposing Oppression” is a clear attempt to sensationalize a matter that is already before lawful authorities and to deliberately further tarnish the image of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences through emotional propaganda, half-truths, and social media trial.
For the avoidance of
doubt, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies are constitutional institutions established by law to investigate complaints, establish facts, preserve public order, and ensure justice. Their involvement in any matter does not amount to intimidation. Rather, it reflects the lawful pathway for resolving allegations, especially where there are claims of cyber-bullying, defamation, unauthorized recordings, false publications, and dissemination of misleading information capable of damaging institutional reputation and public confidence.
It is therefore surprising that intellectually poor bloggers and such individuals who continuously make public allegations on social media suddenly describe lawful invitations by security agencies as “oppression.” One cannot publish accusations, circulate inflammatory contents online, mobilize public outrage, and then reject legal scrutiny when called upon to substantiate those claims before competent authorities.
Mr. Francis Nwapa and those behind these coordinated media attacks should understand that social media is not a courtroom, and activism requires truths and fairness that must not place anyone above the law. If allegations have been made publicly against Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences and its leadership, then the proper and civilized response is to appear before the relevant authorities and provide evidence to substantiate such claims instead of resorting to media blackmail and emotional manipulation.
The attempt to portray every lawful investigation as victimisation is both irresponsible and dangerous. Security agencies are not established to entertain sentiments or online noise; they are empowered to determine truth from falsehood through a due process.
Or could it be that Mr.Francis Nwapa and his cohorts assume themselves untouchable and above the law, even when they churn out lies and deceits against legally established institutions on social media? If Nwapa claims to be the coordinator of Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), legal or illegitimate as it seems, should be able to know the duties of the DSS and the Police and accord them same respect. The group should know the law and its process. The group should have a learned legal profiled counsel to respond or educate their ignorance of the law. Needless to say that Mr. Francis Nwapa’s strategy of Cyber-bullying is a game the DSS and the police are so familiar with and cannot be cowed thereof.
The insinuation Mr. Nwapa made about transferring the case to Lagos for his convenience is baseless. He should have defined his jurisdiction before he went uncontrolled on social media space to write what he didnt understand. He should have asked questions on the location of the crime alleged. But, No. He went viral to disburse unfounded information which he claimed happened at a location he never knew. Now, he is being invited to Enugu where the alleged crime was committed, instead of yielding to the state of law, Francis is calling for public sympathy. He insinuates in the writing that investigation procedure be shifted to Lagos to accommodate his reporting ineptitude, rather than at Enugu where the petition and incidents took place. What a myopic view of the procedure! It is pertinent to note that the law does not recognize convenience.
Therefore, if invitations were extended by the DSS or Police, it is only proper for those involved to honour such invitations and clarify the numerous statements and allegations which they already circulated online.
Furthermore, it is important to remind the public that institutions have rules, ethical codes, and disciplinary procedures designed to protect professionalism, patient confidentiality, institutional integrity, and public trust. Unauthorized recording of patients, hospital environments, administrators, or internal communications and broadcasting them online without clearance may raise serious ethical and legal concerns, especially in professional healthcare training institutions.
It is also intellectually dishonest for certain groups to weaponize the current security challenges in Nigeria as an excuse to discredit lawful investigations.
The DSS and Police are capable of handling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, including investigating complaints relating to cyber harassment, defamation, false information, and conduct capable of inciting unrest. Mr. Francis, writing on his blog “Francis Nwapa Watch” on 15th of April called for proper investigation into the matter. The security agents yielded to that call and lunched investigations to establish the truth. Why is Mr. Nwapa afraid to dance the music he started beating its drums? Journalism is an age long profession practiced by men of seasoned value, honesty and integrity to uphold public truths. It is unfortune that Mr. Francis whose only known job is pest control and fumigation dabbled into a noble profession as journalism, untrained and unequipped to investigate truth before misinforming the public. More disheartening is that Francis might not know the huge negative impact he would be making to institutions and the public just because he afforded a cheap phone and data to post unverified information on blogs.
Dr. Gloria C. Bertram-Okoli and the management of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences have consistently demonstrated commitment to healthcare education, discipline, and institutional excellence. The college cannot and will not surrender its integrity to orchestrated campaigns of calumny or mob pressure driven by social media theatrics.
The public is therefore urged to disregard attempts to distort facts and to allow lawful authorities to carry out their constitutional duties without intimidation from activist groups seeking publicity. Justice is not established on Facebook posts, WhatsApp broadcasts, or media headlines, but through lawful investigation and evidence.
Meanwhile it is also contempt of the legal process as Mr. Nwapa continues to bully online and misinform the public about a matter which is already under investigation. The police had advised that all parties be invited to respond to questions.
The matter is being followed legally. Mr. Francis will do well to submit to legal procedure.
Those who have made allegations should courageously present their evidence before the appropriate authorities instead of portraying legitimate legal procedures as persecution. Truth does not fear investigation.
—Opinion—
society
ONDO EAST-WEST FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY APC ADOPTS OTUNBA BOLA FISAYO
ONDO EAST-WEST FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY APC ADOPTS OTUNBA BOLA FISAYO
Ahead of APC House of Representatives Election scheduled for Saturday 16th of May 2026, Ondo EAST-WEST Federal Constituency stakeholders have adopted Otunba Bola Olawafisayo as its flagbearer.
Rising from the stakeholders’ meeting held at Harmony Estate in Ondo city, a source close to Otunba Bola Olawafisayo disclosed that arrangements have been perfect and party members will formally adopt Otunba Bola Olawafisayo on Saturday the very day slated very for the primary.
-
news5 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society2 weeks agoSOCIAL MEDIA IS NOT A BATTLEFIELD COMMAND – WHY THE NIGERIAN ARMY’S ACTION AGAINST JUSTICE CRACK IS A NATIONAL SECURITY IMPERATIVE
-
celebrity radar - gossips4 months agoDr. Chris Okafor Returns with Power and Fire of the Spirit -Mounts Grace Nation Altar with Fresh Anointing and Restoration Grace on February 1, 2026
-
celebrity radar - gossips5 months agoProphet Kingsley Aitafo Releases 2026 Prophecy: ‘Nigeria Will Rise, but the World Must Prepare for Turbulence’




