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LET US NOT BE TOO UNCHARITABLE TO OURSELVES.

Published

2 years ago

May 7, 2024

milcah

There is an uncharitable narrative being bandied on some platforms from Southern Borno to the effect that the region’s elites of yore did little to improve the plight of the people.

As such they should bury their heads in shame. While the younger ones that are not towing the line of the collective denigration and budding “revolution” are referred to variously as; slaves, stooges, sycophants, bootlickers, betrayers, saboteurs, defenders of the status quo, crumbs eaters, etc.

And their crime? Holding a different perspective on issues affecting the region. What an infantile approach to issues and a cheap warped blackmail to get people into ill defined political and ethno-religious orbits and clichés! A voyage of conviction is premised on ideologically molded moral rectitude and the capacity to inspire and not the ability to throw tantrums at both real and imaginary voices of desent.

And to take some people’s dignified silence as lacking in response or concurrence. Unfortunately this ugly trend has become the defining feature of many platforms, with some flirting with such fanciful catch phases as fighting for the “liberation” “unity” and “transformation” of Southern Borno.
Diversity may have constrained the elites and indeed the people of Borno South for long, but history tells that they have made and are still making greater marks in terms of quality of life in comparison with their more homogeneous counterparts from Central/Northern part of the State. Especially when judged by the State’s development indices regarding education, health and even adventure.

To use Southern Borno people’s inability to elect a State Governor as a measure of failure is not only mischievous but naive. It also represents poor sense of history and appreciation of the comperative living standards of the ordinary folks of Northern/Central Borno extraction with those from the South. The same assessment could be extended to the quality of lives in the rural areas of the two regions. This comperative advantage was achieved via the efficacy of Western education, and the positive roles played by the elites of the time, in propagating same. Elites that are now called upon to bury their heads in shame for being “visionless”.

In the 1920s while other parts of Borno were resisting education, the elites and traditional leaders we paradoxically referred to as “visionless” accepted it and made the region the bastion of education, manpower and enlightenment with the attended income so derived from. Today, the variant of poverty in Southern Borno is less desperate than elsewhere in the State. Thanks to a more equitable income distribution so earned to educational and other related endeavours. An educational movement that started with such humble Native Authority (N.A) schools in Gwoza, Biu, Lassa, Askira, Uba, Kwaya Kusar, Kwajaffa, Sakwa, Marama, Dile, Tampul, Chibok, Ngulde, Damboa, Miringa, Gunda, Ngoshe, Kirawa, K/Bura, Sakwa etc that were soon to be joined by the CBM Missionary schools in Garkida, Marama, Shafa, Waka, Uba, Lassa, and many more.

The impact of these educational initiatives in unqualified terms has been the envy of sister communities. And those who made it possible .The very people that are now being termed visionless. Maybe as “visionless” as those revolutionary figures who used education and mass literacy in the Soviet Union, China and even capitalist America to transform their respective societies. A model that holds great appeal but being poorly mimicked. Furthermore, in the late 60s, (1968 to be precise), the Biu the Native Authority/Federation (with Askira and Shani), among few others in the North pioneered the establishment of Community Secondary Schools.
The Biu Community Secondary School became a reference point in the whole of the then North Eastern State of Nigeria. The products of that school are out there contributing their quota to national development. That feat was achieved by the elites and leaders we now consider “visionless”.

Down the line, the forces of history and Military politics worked unfairly for the Southern part of Borno as the region ended up with only nine (9) LGAs out of 27 in Borno State . A structure embeded in the 1999 national Constitution. The series of exercises that led to the development was done through fiat by the Military. And maybe along with some privileged local elements. To even get this 9 LGAs it took some efforts, protests and lobby on the part of the past “visionless” elites/leaders from the region. Some of them are of blessed memory while others are still alive.

For instance at one time Biu and kwaya kusar were lumped together as one LGA. So was Shani and Hawul. It was the separation of the two sets, plus the creation of the Bayo LGA that brought the current number of LGAs to nine in Southern Borno. Bayo, for security reasons (Biu-Gombe Emirates border frictions), allegedly took the slot of a LGA that was to be curved out of Gwoza LGA.It took the efforts of patriotic citizens and various Community Development Associations (CDAs) to get the two sets of the paired LGAs separated and new ones created, thus bringing the number to nine. That struggle almost cost some citizens their career progressions in both the state and the federal services. Some almost lost their lives. Today people have luxury to call such people “visionless”

Of recent the proposed Savannah State has been ranks among some of the most viable and favourable proposals for states creation. Putting up the proposal has not been a smooth sail but the determination of those involved made it possible, on more than three or four past occasions. The last outing being in Bauchi recently.Through it all, the aspirations of the people of Southern Borno to have Savannah State never dies. Ironically it was the role of the “visionless” elites/leaders that keeps the vision of the Savannah State alive and never wished away.

The Nigerian Army University (NAUB) Biu, the Federal College of Education (FCOE) Gwoza, the Urban Renewal in Biu etc were all facilitated by the elites add to the efforts of Southern Borno elites past and present. Elites, that are now referred to as “visionless”.

Development is a process with wide latitude. It is also infinite with enormous room for all to play a part, be it incremental or revolutionary. However in fast tracking the process, imagination should be stretched and intelligence employed by the very individuals and groups who volunteer to build on the past. People perform better when they move from the known to the unknown, so says wisdom. A.G.Abubakar agbarewa@gmail.com

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Kwara celebrates Fela’s legacy with retrospective exhibition

Published

1 day ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Kwara State Government has celebrated the life and enduring influence of Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, with a retrospective exhibition aimed at preserving African cultural heritage and inspiring younger generations.

The exhibition, titled Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: A Retrospective, was opened by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film in Ilorin on Monday.

The Governor said the establishment of the institute reflected his administration’s belief that development should extend beyond physical infrastructure to include spaces that promote creativity, knowledge and economic opportunities.

“When we established the Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, our vision was clear: development must go beyond roads, bridges and buildings to create spaces for creativity, knowledge and opportunity,” AbdulRazaq said.

According to him, cultural infrastructure plays an important role in connecting people to their history, broadening their imagination and encouraging critical thinking.

“Physical infrastructure connects places; cultural infrastructure connects people to their history, expands their imagination and challenges their thinking,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq said the institute was established to preserve African stories, nurture talents and showcase the continent’s artists and thinkers to the world,
describing the decision to open the institution with an exhibition dedicated to Fela as significant, given the musician’s contribution to African music, social commentary and cultural expression.

“Fela was more than a musician. Through his music and artistic expression, he challenged conventions and confronted society with questions about power, freedom, identity and justice,” he added.

The Governor added that the late musician’s life demonstrated the capacity of artistic expression to influence public discourse and inspire social change.

The exhibition, curated by June Creative Art Advisory, led by its founder, Mrs Seun Alli, featured photography, archival materials, film, graphic works and other artistic expressions exploring Fela’s life, times and enduring influence.

AbdulRazaq commended the firm for bringing its curatorial expertise and creative vision to the project, while describing the exhibition as an opportunity for different categories of visitors to engage with the musician’s legacy.

He said the exhibition would provide students with learning opportunities beyond the classroom, inspire artists, support researchers and encourage young people to explore the creative industry.

“For students, this is a classroom beyond the classroom; for artists, inspiration; for researchers, an opportunity for deeper inquiry; and for young people, a reminder that creativity offers both self-expression and economic opportunity,” he said.

The Governor clarified that the state government was not claiming ownership of Fela’s story but was providing a platform for younger generations to encounter and learn from his legacy, adding that the state government is optimistic that the institute would promote cultural education, encourage creative enterprise, attract visitors and strengthen Kwara State’s position in Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.

According to him, the institution’s success would be measured by the talents it nurtured, the ideas it inspired and the opportunities it created.

“Governments change, but institutions should endure,” the Governor said, expressing the hope that the exhibition would mark the beginning of sustained cultural engagement at the institute.

“May this exhibition begin sustained cultural engagement at ICAAF and inspire our young people to create, question, discover and contribute to society,” he said.

AbdulRazaq added that the initiative reflected his administration’s commitment to building a state where cultural heritage, innovation and economic opportunities complemented one another.

In her address, the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, said: “Today’s exhibition offers us an opportunity to revisit the life and works of Fela
Anikulapo-Kuti and appreciate how his music, ideas and artistic expression continue to influence generations.

“For the Ministry of Communications, this occasion speaks to an important part of our
mandate: promoting the stories, talents and creative expressions that shape our identity as a people.”

The Commissioner particularly noted that under Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership, the State is creating opportunities for young people through investments in sectors such as film, fashion and technology.

She added: “Projects including
the Sugar Film Factory, the Garment Factory and the Ilorin Innovation Hub reflect the administration’s commitment to developing talent and supporting enterprise.

“The Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, formerly the Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, adds an important dimension to this effort. It provides a platform for artistic expression, cultural learning and creative collaboration.

“We want young Kwarans who are passionate about painting, photography, filmmaking, fashion and design to see ICAAF as a place where they can explore their interests, learn from others and showcase their talents.

“We also encourage students to engage with art and history beyond the classroom. Fela’s story is a fitting subject for this exhibition. It demonstrates how creativity
can go beyond entertainment to shape cultural identity and influence public conversations. There is much for our young people to learn from his artistic journey and enduring impact.

“It might also interest you that kwara state was also part of Fela’s creative showcase during his lifetime.”

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2027: Ilorin West LG Boss Leads APC Mega Rally In Ubandawaki

Published

1 day ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

•••Says Ward stands with APC

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Executive Chairman of the Ilorin West Local Government, Mallam Shehu AbdulRahman Babatunde Ladan, has led an All Progressives Congress (APC) mega rally in Ubandawaki Ward, reaffirming the commitment of party members and supporters to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rally attracted party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, youths, women, and other stakeholders who gathered to demonstrate their support for the party.

Addressing the gathering, Chairman Ladan declared that Ubandawaki Ward remains committed to the APC and its political leadership, expressing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the APC governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu (SYD), alongside other party candidates for the 2027 general elections.

The Chairman emphasised the importance of unity, peaceful political engagement, and sustained grassroots mobilisation in strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the forthcoming elections, urging party faithful to remain united, engage constructively with residents, and work collectively towards the party’s political objectives.

Ladan also acknowledged the importance of Ubandawaki Ward in the political landscape of Ilorin West, encouraging party leaders and supporters to maintain cordial relationships, promote inclusive participation, and sustain engagement with the electorate. He stressed that a united party structure would help strengthen internal cooperation and effective grassroots coordination.

The mega rally renewed calls for unity, loyalty, and peaceful political participation among APC members and supporters, underscoring commitment by participants to mobilising support for the party’s candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, while promoting peace, development, and responsible democratic engagement across Ilorin West Local Government Area.

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KW-IRS Staff Threaten Strike Over Alleged Poor Remuneration

Published

6 days ago

October 21, 2026

Our Reporter

Mgt Accuses Union Of Dishing Out False Staff Remuneration Scale

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The staff of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) have lamented poor welfare conditions, rising living costs and stagnant salaries they have been subjected to, despite their contributions to the state’s revenue generation.

In a statement issued by the KWIRS chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), the workers lamented that their sacrifice and professionalism, which have helped to place Kwara State among the more self-reliant states in the country, have not been matched with corresponding improvement in their welfare.

The workers questioned the disparity between their contributions to the state’s revenue and their welfare, saying many of them are battling financial hardship.

“We block leakages. We are posted to hospitals and other MDAs to secure government revenue. We work under pressure day and night but we continue to struggle to meet basic needs due to poor salaries.”

The association further expressed concern that personnel costs had remained unchanged for years while other expenditure heads had continued to increase.

It also cited a salary negotiation agreement dated October 11, 2022, which reportedly stated that the adjustment would be implemented “as soon as it can be accommodated in the budget.”

According to the workers, nearly four years after the agreement, there had been no implementation or clear indication of when the adjustment would take effect, despite the rising cost of living.

The staff said expenses on school fees, house rent, transportation and food had increased significantly while their salaries remained unchanged. “We smile outside but the majority of us are bleeding inside. We cannot continue to generate wealth for the state while we wallow in abject poverty,” they declared.

Urging their colleagues to remain united and resolute in pursuing improved welfare, the association said the workers should not expect better conditions without collectively standing up for their interests.

It called on members to remain calm, vigilant and prayerful as a 14-day period beginning October 15, 2026, counts down, without specifying further details in the statement about the expected action at its conclusion.

Reacting to the KW-IRS staff allegations, the Management, while
reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, political neutrality and its statutory mandate, expressed dismay over public speculation on staff remuneration and attempts to politicise unverified internal administrative communications.

“Management is concerned by attempts to exploit unverified internal administrative communications for political purposes, create unnecessary tension and distract the Service from its responsibilities. KWIRS will not be distracted from its mandate by such narratives,” said the Management.

It added: “The isolated salary figures being circulated on social media do not represent the full remuneration structure or total emoluments of KWIRS staff. Staff compensation extends beyond regular monthly salaries and includes the following benefits, in accordance with applicable policies and approved arrangements:

“Annual and Performance-Related Bonuses: Annual, festive, and situational bonuses linked to revenue performance milestones and staff performance and situational economic palliatives are paid periodically to staff members

“Annual Leave Allowance: A separate annual payment in addition to regular monthly remuneration.
Staff Welfare and Operational Support: Structured measures designed to support staff welfare and professional development throughout their careers.

“Accordingly, assessing staff remuneration solely on selectively circulated salary figures presents an incomplete picture of the Service’s compensation and welfare structure.

“Management remains committed to staff welfare, motivation and professional development. The Service will continue to strengthen policies and operational processes that support staff well-being and performance, within government-approved resource allocations and applicable administrative frameworks. The Service remains one of the Government Institutions with the most recruitment requests and this is a testament of Management’s commitment to staff welfare.

“KWIRS urges members of the public, taxpayers and other stakeholders to disregard unverified and misleading narratives, verify information before sharing it, and rely on official Service communications for accurate information about its operations and staff policies.

“All stakeholders are encouraged to refrain from politicising internal administrative matters or spreading claims capable of undermining institutional harmony and public confidence.

“KWIRS remains focused on its statutory responsibilities and committed to mobilising revenue for the economic growth and sustainable development of Kwara State.”