Fintech: Leveraging Covid-19 Pandemic For Future Gains

Fintech is the new application processes, products or business models in financial services, industries composed of one or more complementary financial services and provides end to end process via internet, the use of smartphones for mobile banking, investing services and crypto currency are examples of technologies aiming to make financial services more accessible to general public. Fintech companies consist of both start ups and established financial institution and technology companies trying to replace or enhance the usage of financial services provided by existing financial companies.

Fintech is the technology and innovation that aims to compete with the traditional financial methods in the delivery of financial services. Fintech companies and Start-ups are adapting to the new Normal amidst COVID-19 pandemic most of them have the advantages of having built agile teams and systems, it's now a matter of their resilience and the relevance of their services.

Social distancing for example lends itself to mobile first of many, since people cannot go to bank to perform transactions alot of people go to their phones so we go to the new normal of using our which is Fintech.

Another outcome of Covid-19 maybe the acceleration of partnerships with financial institutions that offers benefits such as capital and infrastructure, but increasingly seek Innovative digital solutions, the Fintech are also better geared towards partnerships using Innovative tools and technology to do

Coronavirus: The Growth of Online Learning Business

Following the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, especially with the absence of an immediate cure in sight, businesses, including schools have started to explore new modes of operations. Before now, many parents thought it would be impossible to execute digital learning in Nigeria and even to hook-up their children online to receive relevant teaching. The Federal Government has launched free e-learning portals for all students in primary and secondary schools as there is a closure of schools nationwide to prevent the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

The online learning process is coordinated by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in conjunction with the States Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs). Also, many state Governments and executives have backed this initiative, including the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, who on Saturday, joined the government-backed virtual digital training for youths in the state with a call on participants to compete to evolve with homegrown technological solutions to local problems.

Prior to this pandemic, online learning had existed. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, edx and still counting give opportunity for professionals and amateurs to exchange intellectual property and learn for a token of money or on scholarships.

The business comes when you either become a tutor or you own the learning platform. Anyone can just start with your WhatsApp and Facebook groups and teach what you know for free or for a fee

The Struggles of Sapa

By Dictargh 

 

"21, 22, 23...", I continued in my reverie as I counted the number of grains of rice remaining in the black nylon that contained what was left of the one derica of rice I bought three days ago from the ọmọ Ibo who lived next to me. At first glance, one would think it was as a result of joblessness that I engaged in such an unprofitable activity but a second look would surely direct the viewer's gaze to my sunken cheekbones, "colour-less" skin and the forced "Sapa, nice one" grin that etched itself on my face. 

There had been no light for some days now and I had to make use of my roommate, Akpan's stove. Had there been power supply, my hot plate would have shown itself capable of satisfying my cooking needs. Instead, I had to use a stove that was not mine and borrowed kerosene; the kerosene was for Akpan and since he had gone home for a few days, I pleaded with him to lend me the little amount of kerosene remaining in the stove while promising to replenish it with an equivalent amount of money. In summary, I was cooking on credit. Oúnjẹ gbèsè! 

Life was looking at me like "Have you met me?" with that overly sarcastic Cruella kind of look. It was quite frustrating. I remembered hearing people say "One thing must kill a man"; I didn't quite understand till I met the bold and ruthless Sapa. Sapa is actually the native name of the well-known villain in real life commonly referred to as "Lack". It could be lack of money, food or situations that promote these. 

It was Sapa that made Vanessa leave me. There, I said it. It was the first time I said Vanessa's name out loud ever since the unspeakable happened to me. It had been five months, three weeks, four days, twenty minutes and uncountable nanoseconds since Vanessa broke up with me and no, I definitely don't miss her or think she's that important anymore. Chai! Vanessa! Vanessa who promised to spend the rest of her life with me; We had even agreed to have two boys and two girls who would be identical twins and we would name them Zach, Zeke, Zahra and Zinnia respectively, only because Vanessa said her celebrity crush was Zendaya. 

"So much for dreams", I said to myself. The crux of this matter is to present my case to the world and prove that Sapa is a relationship breaker and a confirmed ọmọ dalérú dalérú. Initially, when I was in my first year, things were very rosy for me. I had just gotten admission into a prestigious university and as the first child of my parents, they were ready to do all for me. In addition, my uncles and aunts sent me money from time to time to ensure I was comfortable even as I claimed that the registration process was rigorous. 

Oh, how I paraded myself in my first year. Now that I think about it, it was probably why Vanessa claimed she "liked" me but I was the one who asked her out. What if she charmed me? She was the one giving me the green light anyway. In all, I don't want to take the blame for involving myself in such a fake relationship. 

Two and two put together, and "four-ever" Vanessa and I promised ourselves. Our relationship was the talk of the department- the perfect couple. Vanessa was one of the most beautiful ladies in the class, truth be told. I lavished my pocket money on Vanessa because I was so sure more would come from my parents and that became my system of life; love made me blind or maybe I was just stupid and naive. 

Moving on to second year, I should have seen the signs when my parents sent me to school with half the provisions I took in my first year. I just thought they would replace the missing provisions with some extra money in my bank account. Long story short, I started fighting the battle of "half" in my life- my allowance money was halved and the uncles and aunts I used to see had vanished. Little did I know that Sapa had begun squatting in my corner. 

I still felt gallant and had this ridiculous hope in my heart that all was going to be well so I carried on with my extravagant "Vanessa-inclusive" lifestyle. The day I knew I was finished was the day I withdrew the last one thousand Naira in my bank account to buy Vanessa a packet of Maryland Cookies and a bottle of Pulpy Orange (I'm sure that food didn't digest well in her stomach). After withdrawing and buying the snacks, I called my parents to ask for the usual but instead of don't worry, I got a "Look, you'll have to wait for now because we don't have that cash and how did you even spend all that money? After all, you're no longer in your first year". I can't remember how the call ended because I was in shock for a while. 

I replayed the words in my head over and over again, checked the call log to see if it was my parents I called. My heart began to beat very fast because I knew I didn't have any money or food. I was so used to buying food that the hot plate my parents gave me was still sitting pretty in my cupboard. There was not even a trace of any food stuff in my belongings - it was that terrible. 

For the first time, I recognized the presence of the dreaded entity called Sapa. The mistake I made was to ask Vanessa to lend me some money. I thought my "better half" would cover for me as I had seen in the movies but I don forget say Hollywood no be real life. Till I die, I would never be able to forget the look of disgust Vanessa gave me that day. She said she didn't have any money to give to me after I explained the situation to her. She subtly insulted me after I said I was still receiving money from my parents. She made me know that my mates were hustling while I was still holding on to the strings of my parents' aprons. 

The next day, Vanessa broke up with me via a text message that read: "Olajide, I thought you were a guy of substance but I was wrong. I don't think I can plan my future with a guy who doesn't have money to cater for himself. It was nice while it lasted". Guess what I did? The money I could borrow from a friend: I used half of it to send messages to Vanessa to beg to stay with me. Looking back, I can say that I wasted the money. She was never worth it.

After the whole Vanessa thing, I started understanding the importance of planning financially and growing up. Prudence became my friend and Sapa, my on and off rival. Some days were good while others were "Sapa-induced". In all, I had learnt my lesson well and good.

The vibration of my phone jerked me away from my thoughts and I checked the message. Alas! It was Uncle Bayo from Dubai, my mum's younger brother, who sent me ten thousand Naira. I jumped from the bed with shouts of "Thank you, Jesus!!!". It felt like I had just received one million Naira. Another vibration came in and I saw another message urging all members of my department to pay the departmental dues as the deadline was the following day.

Shaking my head with a grin on my face, I saluted my comrade and said to him "Sapa, nice one!".

• Ọmọ Ibo - A child of Igbo origin.
• Oúnjẹ gbèsè - Food on credit.
• ọmọ dalérú dalérú - A child who scatters the home.

Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and the Post COVID-19 Era

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are becoming increasingly sophisticated and they are set to play a significant part of our future workplace even after covid era, many big companies and Highflyer organizations have made used of these both automation to performance some crucial responsibilities during this widespread of covid 19 virus. as many of these companies and organizations can't afford to close their business because of the lockdown announce in many countries.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are already/will be replacing the work traditionally performed by humans. This was unimaginable only a few years ago.
Robots are already entering the workplace, as explored in the following five examples.

1. Museum guides

Lincoln museum in the UK has a hi-tech robot which is equipped with sensors and cameras to guide visitors through the exhibitions. It was programmed by robotics experts from the University of Lincoln and finds the best routes around the museum, pausing at exhibits to offer facts and answer basic questions from visitors.

2. Fire assessment

Smoke and flames can make it impossible for even the most experienced of firefighters to navigate a building that is on fire. However, the SmokeBot can monitor the progression of fires and the damage being caused.

3. Fulfilment centre workers

Amazon’s fulfilment centres use robots to bring the shelves and stock to the workers for picking. They’re programmed to perform the most mundane and repetitive tasks, while the actual packing is still performed by humans.

4. Nuclear site clean-up

Robots are being used to remove dangerous radioactive waste at Sellafield nuclear power station. The waste is sucked up using arms mounted on overhead cranes. Another tool can attach to a crane and separate large pieces of debris into smaller chunks. The human operators stay safe, as they are shielded behind a wall while manoeuvring the robots.

5. Chatbots

Chatbots are pieces of software designed for humans to have conversations with, either verbally or via text (written) input. The first chatbot was invented in 1966 by Joseph Weizenbaum and was called Eliza. It used only 200 lines of code and delivered text responses based on the language of a therapist. People using Eliza knew they were interacting with a computer program. However, the humans using it during trials grew emotionally attached to it because of the set emotional responses Eliza was programmed to deliver.

Chatbots are now becoming far more sophisticated. They are creating an interface that soon won’t require a screen or a mouse to use, but will be completely conversational, meaning that they will respond to voice commands given by the user. Those conversations will be indistinguishable from those that we have with our friends and family.

In 2013, it was estimated in a research paper by the Oxford Martin School at the University of Oxford that 47% of jobs in the USA would be at risk of being lost to artificial intelligence (AI)1. This is just one of many differing predictions of what will happen. However, everyone agrees that significant changes within the workplaces of the future are inevitable.

There is a fear that automation (the loss of human jobs to the work of robots) is something that will happen to the world after covid 19. However, it’s more likely that it will happen with us. Robots might even make work better for humans by reducing the more menial and mundane tasks, allowing us to focus on more specialist skills. We may even need to work less.

Information from futurelearn course...

Opinion: Online Dating and the Love Path of Facades

"Beneatha, are you going for a beauty contest? I have never seen you spend so much time in front of the mirror like this.' Doris comments as Beneatha draws her brows. 'Well... it's all 'bout my new date I met on Facebook three months ago. Doris, this guy is amazingly cute. We've always had an online lovely time together. So, when he suggested that we should meet at Country Kitchen today, I couldn't resist him. He's such a nice guy.' Doris shrugs and giggles. She reminds Beneatha of her past experiences with online dating. She recalls her encounter with a dishonest person who created a profile with a dating site only for scamming her and other members.

'Gosh! You're so paranoid for my liking. I am an adult and I don't mind doing crazy things to find true love.' Beneatha says and bangs out of the room. Doris claps her palms in surprise. She wonders how a sane person will just choose to confide in a kind of abstract lover. What if the guy turns out to be a dangerous and evil. Perhaps a ritualist or a rapist? It will definitely end in tears.

Online dating is also known as internet where people find and contact each other through the internet to arrange a date, usually with the goal of developing a personal and romantic relationship.

Most times, online dating is usually a facade because it doesn't help to detect the true love. Hence, it becomes a love path that neither did run smooth nor balance. Below are some side effects of online dating:

There is a lot of personality misrepresentation because people tend to lie about their past and character.

Waste of time, effort and money as many online dating users never had the chance to meet anyone face to face.

Increased chances of impersonation or identity theft because geographical distance makes physical closeness difficult if not impossible.

It's difficult to meet people with similar core values, faith, interest, background and preferences.

Relationship consensus is very sensitive. It's a decision that can either make or mar your life. Thus, there's need for proper physical interactions and observations.

Online dating might be trendy or attractive but you'll be playing a risky game of meeting any/every Tom, Dick and Harry because...

True love doesn't come out cheap or on a 'platter' of chance!

Nigeria- We Can Make It Happen

Far from a trial to rub our wounds, Nigeria will pick up soon as indicators show. The best way to support these indicators is to become motivation to ourselves.

For me, each time, I carry a belief that it is what I give in that I get back. It simply implies that when I give all the necessary zeal, strength and dexterity into a thing, I get "all the desired results." Then I took to history, reading to find stories of persons whom this principle have worked for and I'm here with the "I can do it attitude."

History has the tales of experts who were convinced that the ideas, plans, and projects of others could never be achieved. However, the accomplishment of those same rejected projects, came to those who said, "I can make it happen."

I sometime ago, read the story of The Italian sculptor- Agostino d'Antonio who worked diligently on a large piece of marble. Unable to produce his desired masterpiece, he lamented, "I can do nothing with it." Other sculptors also worked on this difficult piece of marble, but to no avail.
After sometime, Michelangelo discovered the stone and visualized the possibilities in it. His "I-can-make-it-happen" attitude resulted in one of the world's wonderful masterpieces.
 

As you read this account under the magnificent lighting of your environment, from your mail, social media or blog as the case may be, consider that what you call an absurdity and waste of time could become an asset. You would find out that you can make it happen!

 

Yours in Inspiration

Football Is Politics: An Allegory - The Players and The Fans

 

I'm not a fan of football, but I think I do know a few things about it. I'm just one of those rare guys who do not like football.

Football is funny, it could be comedy at times; a game where players shake hands after play, and fans fight one another after play. That is the fun in it. I have noticed that to the players, it's a game and they've been paid(cool dough obviously) and; to the fans, they've paid and one must take the blame.

So players find no pain switching membership while supporters sense infidelity for cross-carpetting, thus the fans usually stick to one club while the players switch clubs often for the love of the game. If players are loyal to the game than their clubs, then supporters should be loyal to the game than their clubs; in that way, they will need not fight or kill one another for the game.

Another funny thing is that neither the players nor the game requires that they fight! Probably the fight comes up because most people are not just fans but fanatics. Be a fan not a fanatic.

That's football. I do not intend to derail from my sporty post with my socio- political analogy. But far from it is the political scene of Nigeria. My observation holds but sadly true in the polity and political game "Nigeria" that while our evil politicians and rulers who in this context are the players, short change the entire populace and people in the course of the game. leaving them high and dry; the populace who are the fans in the political arena rather than hold the politician i.e the players accountable, would rather turn against themselves whilst unleashing hell and sorrow and further impoverish themselves. All the while the politician players after every hot battle or game as put, after whipping the people into killer frenzy, vide the intoxicants' and toxins called religion and ethnicity and simply retire backstage to loot and dine together unbridled whilst the supporters or fans called Nigerians waste themselves.

Literally, soccer fans should hold players accountable when they play badly, rather than fight one another; concrete evidence suggests financial profligacy from most soccer stars, little wonder they feel sad when retirement calls. The major difference between this literal story and my allegory is that unlike the soccer fans who spend hard earned money to watch their favourite team, the electorates do not spend, rather they depend on the politicians who invest massively and brainwash the masses to stay in power.

People should see the light and realise that fellow citizens are not always the catalyst of their woes.

2023: A Battle of Popularity, Plans, Power and Process

 

 

As 2023 edges closer, the fate of a country on who will become its face in various political positions becomes hotly debated. In few months' time, Nigeria will once again experience a mass activity and participation from its inhabitants as each and everyone will troop out in numbers to canvass for support and vote for their beloved candidates. Enmity will be sworn, love will also be spread. There has always been the case of bloodshed and destruction and the coming year is expected to be no different.

 

With the coming year expected to be full of hope and optimism severely overshadowed by pessimism, as to what the next leader brings to the table. Each of these ambitious candidates are  already starting to reel out what they intend to achieve if elected. As at the time of publishing this article, more than 20 individuals have declared their interest in running for various political posts, with the presidential post being the one in the minds of most of these individuals.

While the primaries have not been done yet, many aspirants have made their ambitions known and have made it official, with some of these figures purchasing the nomination forms of their various political parties. The coming elections promises to be a tense affair as some of these aspirants aim to battle it out for the post without allowing the popularity and power some of their opponents wield, intimidate or rule out their interest. Each of these candidates who were once or are still leaders of a political post or the other rely on different concepts, ideology which gives them the assurance that they can boldly come out to declare their interest and win the elections.

Most of these leaders believe in their plans. While some of them have read out the plans they have for the country once elected, others are still drafting out their intentions. The plans of each of these candidates will go a long way to determine how people's opinion on who to vote for. Their plans are like their voices.

Just as their plans are important, their popularity is also quintessential in determining who will win the coming elections. Being a popular figure among the mass is also a great factor which each of these candidates are hoping to make use of, and this is where strategic campaign movements come into play. 

Some of this candidates also believe they wield power. Having been former leaders of states and members of the National assembly, different opponents believe the power they wield from these posts will also have a great effect as to how they perform in the coming elections. 

While bearing all these factors, let's have a look at some of these aspirants who publicly and formally declare their interests in running for the presidential post, while examining what they intend to achieve if elected:

Senator Ibikunle Amosun has officially declared his interest, and he promises to provide a leadership that will galvanize Nigeria to achieve her destiny as a leader in Africa. 

Former Governor of Cross River State, Ben Ayade also made his intentions known as he hopes to concentrate on power, security and economic challenges if elected as president. 

Yahaya Bello, also made his aspirations known and was one of the first candidates to purchase the presidential nomination form.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state has also declared his interest.

Rabiu Kwankwanso, the former Governor of Kano state feels it is high time the problem of insecurity was looked into, among other things.

The Minister of Labour and employment, Chris Ngige is not left out. He has also declares his intention Nas he believes he has all it takes to steer the ship of Nigeria to a safe harbour.

Current Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo declared his intentions also ,while holding the belief that the time for business and entrepreneurs to grow has come.

Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor also made his intention clear with the aim of returning the power in the hands of the ruling party to his own party - The People's Democratic Party.

Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Nigeria's minister of Transportation and Rochas Okorocha, former Governor of Imo State have also declared their interest, with the latter believing he has a compassionate heart to care for the poor and downtrodden and also the masses of the country.

The former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi is also not left out in this race.

Atiku Abubakar has also decided to rerun after failing to win in the last presidential election. He promises that his administration will focus on unity, security, economy, education and devolving more resources to federating units, which he believes are key areas affecting the country.

One of the major figures who has been tipped to win and is also viewed by many as being the favourite is former Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is a big political figure.

2023 indeed promises to be pregnant with loads of expectations and all we can say is May the best man with the purest of intentions win! 

Message Encryption: Is WhatsApp Really safe?

By the happenings in our digital world, information and digital access are very important. Virtually all information is online. In fact, the world is getting to a phase where every transaction and human dealing will be either over the internet or digital. The digital age has provided a high percentage of the human population with mobile phones. The different brands of mobile phones are powered by a variety of applications of varying functionality. We now have that application programs that can be used for gaming, chatting, video conferencing, purchase and sales, aviation and weather forecast. Notable among these different apps is WhatsApp. However, despite the different benefits there has been a recurring problem about the digital age. Regardless of the advancement in technology, hackers still pose a very serious problem. They have managed to infiltrate a lot of "secure" apps leading to loss of information and it seems like the WhatsApp Messenger is now on the radar.

The WhatsApp Messenger is a mobile application released in 2009. It was founded by Jan Koum and Brian Actom but is now owned by Facebook. Since it's inception in 2009, WhatsApp has grown so popular that five out of every 10 mobile phone owners make use of the app. The app has been a massive success due to its ease of use and the fact that it supports instant messaging. Over the years, WhatsApp has been as secure as possible but it now seems like there is a problem. This security problem was announced by Whatsapp. According to WhatsApp there is a security flaw in the app which allows attackers install spyware in the mobile phones of their targets.

Now, for anyone who is adept with technology, this is a quite serious problem. We all know that WhatsApp is linked to the lives of different people. This means that if any hacker is able to gain access to the WhatsApp application on your mobile phone, any information sent via WhatsApp on your phone may be at risk. Yes, it is true that WhatsApp messages remain encrypted and this means that the messages can only be decrypted by the receiver. However, the information in messages can still be accessed before or after they are decrypted. This basically means that the information can be accessed on either the phone of the sender or the receiver. This makes the security leak as dangerous as ever.

In truth, a lot of credit should be given to WhatsApp for all their efforts to stifle the activities of this attackers. It must be said that the threat has been managed to a minimum. The possibility of a hack still brings the question to mind; is WhatsApp really safe?

Coronavirus: Our Health in Nose Masks

As Government partially ease lockdown in various Countries globally, world governments through the United Nations World Health Organisation and several Health Organsations have now advised the use of nose masks in public settings.

Nose and face masks particularly became popular in use since the commencement of the lockdown on movement in various countries across the world in a means to reduce the wide spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Currently there is no clinically proven vaccine for Covid-19 (as at the time of publishing this content), and it appears that several country's economy is crashing down, in order to prevent the crashing of the economy and as well reducing the spread of COVID-19 by the use of nosemasks.

The use of Nose masks as the "New Normal" all across the world and the main question is does the use of a nose mask prevent COVID-19? Although the advise on the use of nosemasks when outside the house in a community setting is way different in various Countries. In Asia Countries, the wearing of nose masks in public has been a new normal since the outbreak of COVID-19.

In some European countries like Austria, Spain and the UK, there are enforcement on the use of nose masks in public gathering,

In some African countries like Nigeria where lockdown has been partially eased the use of Nose masks is enforced in order to prevent the wide spread of respiratory infectious disease such as the COVID-19.

The use of Nose masks is not an alternative to staying at home when you feel sick, the Government advised that when feel sick staying at home (self isolation) is one of the best way to reduce the spread of the virus. And it is not an alternative for hygiene such as washing the hand with soap and alcohol based hand sanitizer.

What experts Say about Nosemasks in prevention of COVID-19.

According to Prof Trish Greenhalgh, the professor of primary Health Care sciences, Niffield department of primary care health sciences, the University of Oxford. He said; 'The science on this is clear: Covid-19 is most commonly transmitted by droplets emitted when we cough, sneeze, shout, sing and even just breathe in close proximity to others. Cloth face coverings are highly effective at blocking droplets coming out of the mouth and nose. They’re not perfect, but if you can stop 90 or 95% of the droplets this will cause a very dramatic reduction in the number of people who catch the virus'.

'Face coverings, which can be made out of a double layer of cloth, are a crucially important measure for bringing the country out of lockdown, since in reality few of us can get properly back to work without getting within 2 metres of other people (either while travelling to work or in offices and factories). We can’t stay behind our front doors forever, and nobody wants a second wave of Covid-19, so covering our faces will become the new normal in public places, workplaces and on public transport.'


However, World Health Organization (WHO) published on April 6,2020 stated that "wearing a nosemask in the public is one of the means and measures to prevent and limit the spread of certain respiratory disease including the COVID-19. Importantly, WHO warns that facemasks and nosemasks are not a replacement for other protective such as Social distancing combined with other measures such as hygiene.

Coronavirus: The Positive Side On Public Health Systems

Coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19, broke out in  Wuhan City, China late December 2019. At the time, many people did not pay much attention towards the infectious disease until early this year when the spread of the disease became practically uncontrollable, spreading rapidly from its originating country to other countries and territories of the world while claiming lives. The world's attention has now been drawn towards this infectious disease.

The highly contagious disease comes with the possibility of causing severe respiratory infections such as a running nose, high fever, tiredness, dry cough and in some cases sore throat and  diarrhea, causing infected patient to have difficulty in breathing. Having achieved  a pandemic state, the World Health Organization  (WHO) and Centres for Disease Control (CDCs) across the world, have issued guidelines for managing the problem from biomedical and psychological points of view, with the provision of funds ,medical supports and encouragement to the workers in the Health sector.

 

One positive result of the Coronavirus pandemic is in the fact that World government leaders have diverted  attention and focus towards the Health sector by providing necessary medical supplies to various Countries and Territories which have been affected by the virus.

Also, world business giants such as Elon Musk (founder SpaceX), Jack Ma (Co-founder Alibaba group) and other notable figures  have contributed their part  in order to treat and prevent the wide spread of this disease. The notable provision of medical supplies such as Ventilators, personal protective equipment, Rapid test kits among others makes a mark for the health sector here.

Upon the outbreak of novel Corona virus in Nigeria in February, the Nigeria public health sector has been highly recognized. Recently, the World bank released $82 million to support the Nigeria public health sector and the federal government of Nigeria as well gas provided #102 Billion for intervention in the health care sector, the Nigeria Center for Diseases Control (NCDC) through ECOWAS as well, has well provided 120 ventilators, 240,000 diagnostic kits and other member states.

Also, Special Isolation centers and Quick test laboratories have been set up in some states and has been accredited for use prior to the outbreak of the pandemic disease. The European Union (EU) and other world bodies are as well working hand in hand with scientists and Medical professionals to produce vaccines and medications for the Virus (COVID-19).

The Essence of Pidgin English: A Review of the Gbedu Magazine

With over one hundred and five kinds of languages in Nigeria, we can't possibly know everything even if we try hard to.

It is definitely not impossible, but will take a long while.

As beautiful as the diversity of languages is, it serves as a barrier to the nation and we can't overlook the fall it would have on us as a nation especially when it comes to social and economical gain. The major tribes (Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo) are still striving to  a balance in communication as to what is important or not, it is not far fetched the major difference in the argument is the fact that language is not understood by nine of the tribes.

What does language bring? Or better put what is so special by the uniformity of language?

The unity brings still amazing me, the uniformity in the languague in the zone of the United kingdom has brought the whole done thus far. No argument either when we say America is one language nation in which they have sustained the whole national unity.

No matter what they all had languages special to them and in what way created a sense of knowing what one another is saying.

If we so crave national unity in Nigeria we need a unique language that is born within us even if it is not noticeable now.

If we got to make the Hausa understand the importance of education language goes far

If we have got to tell the Igbos the importance of education language goes far

If we have got to tell the Yorubas the importance of education language still goes far

It you have got to tell any of the tribe the Importances of anything at all language does the trick.

What about national unity?

If we need to build the brotherly love language goes far?

What be to us?

Pidgin! In other words, broken English

Now there are issues arising in the use of the language such as the language not having a root, or the language not having an error( you can find more on gbedu magazine) what should ask our self is

Isn't the language bringing the unity we need?

If the language does more good than harm why the hesitant on the legalizing of the language.

The citizen of the country can't deny the joy they experience when speaking the language even at the mention of its name. Even the white and other countries get the thrill of the language no wonder the BBC took upon itself to have pidgin as a broadcast.

America got different criticism when they were about to bring the American language out different from your and posh Queen's English. They had to sit down and realize what they actually wanted to achieve, they needed unity and a bond of the nation, they saw they had a different approach to English and decided they would have their English and so far so good it has been working for them.

It wouldn't be bad if Nigeria follows suit as the language speaks volumes of unity and international recognition.

It brings the numerous number of the ethnic group we have together and bonds us to knowledge.

It would bring an easy understanding to the student if schools and make teachers work easier.

Gbedu magazine has started the part of telling the importance of pidgin as it is written in pidgin, gives different languages in pidgin, and makes news in pidgin. It shows also the importance of why we should not allow the language to go into extinction; it would be like hanging our own mother tongue and living a slave to who we fought against.

Our greatest fear is the fear and nothing we do.

English isn't our language why should we continue in it?

We have different ethnic groups we can't pick one and neglect others...

Why then should we kill an inborn language mother nature has given to us

It was born in us. Liken it to a child we nurture, Children could be difficult yes! But that doesn't make them useless.

Coronavirus: Career Tamed, Professionalism Tampered

It is no longer news that there is partial and total lockdown as the case may be, due to the widespread of Coronavirus across the world.

Since the inception of this deadly virus, the basic existing mode of operations and way of life of people has been tampered with almost all sectors affected. There is a general experience of a massive downturn. 

The health sector is grossly affected alike. As the economy of the world now experience a downswing, the educational sector too is far from free of this virus, as all schools had been shutdown since the beginning of the virus. Not even one sector is free from this negative experience the world is into now.

Different sectors have been swayed by the sudden downturn in work. Not surprisingly, with travel at a minimum and social lives put on hold, the accommodation, travel agencies and food services industries also have a share in the suffering. Manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and real estate businesses are not out of this downturn.

From the emergence of this deadly virus, professionalism has been tampered and exposed, most especially the health sector, as many of the claimed professionals in this field have failed to produce or come out with any curable vaccines to the coronavirus, on the flip side of that, they try to get some immune enhancement injections to mitigate the effect of this virus on the body of the infected person.

The worst has happened to the career industry - employers, employees, companies and industries. Production is massively affected due to the restrictions of daily operations of the citizen.

According to the BBC, "A total of 81% of the global workforce of 3.3billion people have had their workplace fully or partly closed".

This is due to the restrictions of daily life which has in turn led to the closure of many companies and laying off staff either permanently or temporarily.

The sad news now is that many people have suffered a lay off already from their works as of recent, according to CNN, there are currently over 3.3million unemployment claims in the united States already as a result of the covid.19 pandemic. Those who have not been laid off are on a Payless leave.

"Workers and businesses are facing catastrophe in both developed and developing economies" said by ILO director general. He continued that, there is now a high risk that by the end of 2020, worldwide unemployment figure will be much higher than the initial count.

Coronavirus: Face masks, For Profit or Not ?

With the sudden rage of the Covid-19 pandemic, which appears to be a respiratory infection, health institutions have advised individuals to wear nose masks to prevent fluid discharge.

Having this in mind, the increase in the demand for these have forced an artificial scarcity of these products, created a business sector and caused an intentionally induced inflation. It's not surprising to find Gucci face masks, Prada face masks and even Versace face masks. It looks thus that many have lost the focus of the reason for this demand.

Ankara Nose-masks

We still have good ones, who somewhat have a non-profit mindset.

Alice and Olivia agreed to a mask-for-mask donation with their #MASKTOGETHER initiative. For each mask sold through A+O, they will donate one mask to the medical community. For every face mask purchase, Inkkas will donate one mask to Model Citizen Fund. Model Citizen Fund is a platform that uses donations to fill backpacks with essential emergency items, then gives them to homeless individuals and disaster victims in need.

Aviator Jeans has begun manufacturing premium protective masks masks for consumer use and allocating the profit to support the manufacturing of face masks for the medical community and other essential workers. The Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) railed against undue exploitation of consumers by retailers of the safety products.

“It has come to the attention of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) that certain suppliers and retailers are taking undue advantage of citizens and engaging in unconscionable trade practices with respect to basic safety and protective apparel such as face masks and latex gloves, as well as personal hygiene products like sanitisers and anti-bacterial wipes, because these products are relevant and necessary in preventing infection or spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus),” a statement signed by Babatunde Irukera, FCCPC chair, said.

“This unusual and inordinate practice of unreasonably increasing the price of these products in an indiscriminate manner, on account of the national public health concern (Coronavirus) violates both moral codes and extant law.

“Abusing citizens’ sensitivity, apprehension, anxiety and vulnerability, especially during emergencies that could adversely affect national security is a violation of law.”

The FCCPC noted specifically that Section 17(s) of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) prohibits “obnoxious trade practices”, or the “unscrupulous exploitation of consumers”.

The Commission said its surveillance efforts have revealed that some otherwise reputable pharmacies and department stores are engaging in price gouging and manipulating supplies in a manner that distorts the market, or temporarily restricts availability in order to unreasonably/unfairly increase prices.

“Any conspiracy, combination, agreement or arrangement to unduly limit or manipulate supply, in order to unreasonably enhance price or otherwise restrain competition is a criminal offence under S.108(1)(b) and (c), FCCPA,” the commission said.

“Any exercise or exploitation of undue pressure in selling or the sale of goods or services, or price manipulation between displayed, and selling price are also serious violations of the FCCPA under Sections 115(3) and 124(1). Taking advantage of the possibility of infection by a dangerous communicable disease to control supply, or unilaterally increase prices is predatory as it preys on the desperation of citizens.

“Considering the circumstances and the vital national interest/security this illegal conduct undermines, the Commission intends to strongly enforce the full letter of the law, including the fullest extent of penalties associated with this conduct.”

 

Opinion: When Opposition Goes Wrong by Awosusi Opeyemi

For so long the People's Democratic Party (PDP) has been marauded with leadership crisis. This is however not uncommon to the party as it has always been inflicted with one party crisis or the other, from the onset. The pioneer chairman of the PDP served for just three months due to the inordinate quest for power by some individuals in the party.

Fast forward to the present day Nigeria, one would only wonder if there is any opposition party in the country at all. This is not farfetched from the fact that the PDP which is supposed to be the paradigm of critical evaluation and subtle opposition of the government in power has not been able to put its house in order; one can only liken the PDP to a toothless tiger which only roars but  cannot subtly, and out of Nigeria's loyalty, critically appraise and help to set the APC-led government back on track whenever the need arises.

Several loyalists of the APC have argued that the government in power is the choice of the people - this no doubt, is the beauty of Democracy. However the question to ponder on is "What measures are in place to ensure the sustainability of Democracy in Nigeria?". We must not be too quick to commit the fallacy that Democracy is all about exercising our rights, indeed it is about adequate and efficient representation of the masses.

In a situation where the APC has been voted into power and they have relented in ensuring the adequate security and welfare of poor Nigerians, which is the primary function  of every government, the PDP wallowed in a play of political agility and sociological ignorance. Several persons have hoped to see the PDP help in putting the APC-led government on its toes; this hope has not only been shattered, but an exclusive mirage. Parties are more interested in playing bitter politics than clamour for the good of the people. How pathetic!

Heavyweight looters and perpetual law breakers cross-carpet to the APC everyday to enrich their pockets which confirms the yoruba sage saying that 'owo epo l'araye n bani la, won o ki n bani la owo eje' literarily meaning 'the world only stays with you when the going gets smooth'. This further reminds me of the popular song by the pop star,  Lil kesh that "NO FAKE LOVE". The political parties in Nigeria have successfully failed in serving as vital tools for a purpose-driven country, when it is time for elections, the party candidates buy roasted corn from the streetside just to 'acclimatize' with the people: indeed, this is fake love.

One could begin to wonder if cross-carpeting has aided our country at all, well, this is a discourse for another blessed day.

It is pretty saddening that opposition parties in the country always refuse to work hand-in-hand with the ruling party and prefer to sabotage efforts of the government in power: the so called ``watchdog`` function they claim to perform is a sheer opium of the masses.

Of recent did the supreme court declare Makarfi the substantive chairman of the PDP in a suit filed by Ali-Modu Sheriff, his PDP rival; although Sheriff's faction claims the judgement to be morally unjust, the law is absolute! It is high time the opposition parties in Nigeria began to perform their watchdog duties and work together with any government in power rather than playing bitter politics as obtainable in Nigeria.

Some political parties however parade themselves in the argument that their major objective is to capture power - Good! But can something else laudable and worthwhile  be done on behalf of the poor masses even before gaining power?

Parties must realise that if Nigeria fails under a political party, it is to the detriment of the populace and not just that of the party in power, therefore, checks should be put in place to move the country forward.

If the Democratic party of the USA is able to put President Trump on his toes, to follow the right path and use the most efficient strategies, then this feat is achievable in Nigeria as well.

We have all pledged our allegiance to our dear country Nigeria, and nothing shall set us back no more!

Koye-Ladele Mofehintoluwa: Brisket Bone, Buhari and Bourdillion

"If you give them your heart, they will want your soul. That is why those of us who do not think twice about them must always be right"- Bola Ige

The Nigerian internet space was recently pervaded with a viral broadcast. Of course, it is fast becoming usual for sensations to take over real news in the Nigerian scene. A lot of theorists have even suggested that these distractions are sponsored. For instance, it could be the case that a major determining policy of some sort has been set up. Nigerian internet space is in the midst of a hot argument on the policy. The government is beginning to feel the pressure of public opinion. Suddenly, everything fizzles away when the attention diverts to a controversy between Wizkid and Davido. Thus, in a matter of moments, the attention has been shifted and the policy discussion becomes an issue for the past.

Last week, someone must have felt the "Eureka" sensation and ran into the market naked to proclaim "Eureka!". This person attempts to trace have proven abortive suggested that the "biscuity" part of meat that we chew enjoyed best when the meat is fried and popularly tagged "biscuit bone" is incorrect but rather it is brisket bone. In a country where most of us are willing to imitate the foreign concepts and even diction without understanding them, a large number of us began to correct ourselves without trying to confirm if we were wrong. Brisket bone for three days won the hearts of the struggling-hard-to-speak-phonetics category of Nigerians.

Shortly after, it became the case that someone did Nigerians the favour of a research and came back to say brisket bones are found in the chest of an animal around the ribs and they are not what we coined the term "biscuit bone" in reference to. In a short time again, the quiet ones among us who did not take a position on if it was biscuit or brisket bone came out to mock those who did call it "brisket bones".

For a long time now, I have argued that until Africans understand their uniqueness and do not care for their local diction to affect their phonation as part of their pride. We will continue living a lie. African consciousness entails in totality a pride of who you are and what you are.

These youths who have decided to "brisket bones" are either uninterested or distracted from the fact that for more than two months, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been away. While theoretically, we are made to believe his absence creates no vacuum, some of us know better that the politics at work is holding the government to ransom. Aisha Buhari herself would take to Twitter and describe as "hyenas and jackals who want to reign in the absence of the Lion King".

Whispers convey the news that the President has cancer. Some louder whispers convey the news that he has become totally deaf. The true state of the President is being hidden effectively from those he governs. Welcome to Nigeria! This is one of our inventions. We create public servants that are isolated from those they lead till their tenure ends.

While the President was away, a serving Senator died and interestingly, a bye-election was conducted for his office. In typical Nigerian style, the replacement was a reward. Most political offices are held by people being rewarded for either party loyalty (which can also be the equivalent thuggery, violence and contribution of illegally sourced funds), being the next in line(yes. Even though we don't have a royalty. There's a queue on the way to power. Elections are just to determine who is really next in line) and also other criteria with the exception of capability.

The bye-election in Osun returned the brother of the deceased Senator. The Senator in question emerged from the opposition party. Despite federal might, regional might and power of incumbency, the APC could not return a candidate and the slot went out to the other party. This is interesting.

Bourdillion has been quiet. What is the man in Bourdillion up to? Is he scheming to put his man there or will be go there himself come 2019? What was the position of Bourdillion on the Osun senatorial bye-election? Has Bourdillion begun to lose political relevance in Nigerian politics? Is Bourdillion in good health himself as whispers also suggest he is ill?

Is the outcome of the bye-election a sign of things to come? Are the Osun masses simply dissatisfied with Aregbesola and are sending a message that they don't want his governance? Was the bye-election a protest vote? Were the votes bought? Was the outcome to reward the deceased?

The best analyst of political trends cannot in Nigeria come up with a satisfactory explanation for political occurrences. The influx of methods and processes outside the book has made obscure what really decides choices of the masses in Nigeria. The question is if the masses even choose! Our democracy is so complex that another name other than democracy should be coined for it.

As the politics in Nigeria continues to heat, the axe continues to wave in the air. Where will it land? On who will it fall?

Who is the anointed one for the 2019 elections?

Mr Speaker Speaks; Mr President Presides.

By Omole Isaac Adeonipekun

I have examined with keen attention the "wahala" between the Speaker of OAU Students' union and the President of the union. The simple truth is both persona are actors in a movie that seems to get interestingly interesting day-in-day-out. It will be my pleasure to then analyze analytically and technically the issue between the President and the speaker.

IN THE BEGINNING
We would recall that OAU Students' union elections came up 3/4 months ago. From the  facts at my disposal Mr Temitope a.k.a Tbamz was part of those persons that preached the gospel of Dr IBK in the Faculty of Administration - he was also renowned to have supported Emerald too in his faculty as against his faculty-mate, Annadiva. We did hear that Mr IBK promised to support Mr Temitope for Speaker of the Union's parliament.

Dr Ibk won the election as we all know and Mr Temitope from Accounting department was instrumental as regards his victory in  the Faculty of administration.
To keep his own part of the bargain, IBK and his political dads did ensure they sealed Tbamz victory at the in-house elections of Parliamentarians-They threw their weight behind him powerfully.
As at that point in time, the Speaker of the parliament and the Union's President were great padis.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

The question above is a  "one million naira" one as it is "multi-faceted" and multi-dimensional.

In truth and as a matter of factual reality, IBK and Tbamz were padis but before the end of last semester, they seemed to be dragging issues with each other.

In the first sitting for this semester, I noticed that certain Honorables moved Motion for adjournment of sitting/plenary and DR IBK was said to have opined that the sitting be postponed because he had an in-course or something of such. That seemed weird and had elements of less-sagacity on the part of the President, his vice  could have just stood in his place. Oh lest I forget, he doesn't even trust his vice too much, he has the view cum fear that the lady is eyeing his position.

It was learnt that Mr President went to the DSA without the knowledge of his fellow CEC members and the house in pursuit of collecting close to 12 million union dues backlog for the purchase of buses and this did vex the speaker.

The most dramatic of them all was the sitting were committees were constituted and the Judicial Council-that was technically the last straw that broke the camel's back.

JUDICIAL COUNCIL AND COMMITTEES BROUHAHA

This is the most laughable part of the story and perhaps the crux of the issue. Let me relay it narratively in subsequent paragraphs.

Akinteye Ife, a part 5 law student is a friend to Dr Ibk, the President and a close friend to the Union's PRO too. He did support Dr IBK during the last Union elections in fact against his class mate, Ibiyemi. The reasons we adduce to that decision of his is that , a. He is Ibk's friend;b. His padi, Oyewale Faith(a law student) is said to be Dr Ibk's cousin;c. LSS elections, Ibiyemi was supporting the candidate that went against Ifeteye's candidate, literally they belonged to different camps.

Akinteye Ife supported IBK with his life and Ibk did win the election but lost the Faculty of law, Ifeteye's constituency.

To reward his loyalty, he was promised the position of Lord Chancellor of the Judicial Council. From rumors emanating from different angles, Ifeteye had occupied the office of the Lord Chancellor even before he was nominated and had put some minor touch to the Lord Chancellor office at SUB.

Ironically, The Speaker and the President fell out because the speaker wanted a certain 30percent of  Judicial council members and certain statutory committees but the President selfishly wanted to have all of them 100percent just like "Oliver twist"  but the speaker was smarter.
On the day, the Judicial Council was constituted, Ifeteye wasn't nominated, not to talk of being the Lord Chancellor - he suffered for the sin(s) of his padi,eeyah!!!
Another law student emerged the Lord Chancellor, Mr Kayode, and Ibk and his permutations for council and committee membership was deleted from the equation.
Though currently, Ibk has been giving the current Lord Chancellor problems and in fact overstepping his bounds.

OTHER MATTERS ARISING...

Mr President is afraid he might be axed from office by the speaker because the speaker has a good relationship with Emerald the union VP. He feels the lady is eyeing his office and may do anything to impeach him.

In the last sitting, one in which correspondences were written against the president, many persons felt the President will be suspended, but he still has a chance to defend himself in the next sitting.

THE  CONGRESS OF JUNE 8th, 2017.

The congress which held on Thursday, June 8th, 2017 was one that was  "interesting".
In the early stages of the congress, the Congress was quite scanty...
But the best part of the congress was when the petition for the dissolution of the judicial Council and standing committees were presented. The petition was signed by 61 Parliamentarians.
However, some of the Honorables (who allegedly signed the petition) claimed they were oblivious of the petition and some claimed they signed it cos they weren't satisfied with the constitution of the Judicial Council and committees.
One scene that did light up the atmosphere was when One Petkoff from the department of Philosophy(though, he is known to be Dr IBK's loyalists) gave the submission that the Judicial  Council and standing committees be dissolved and the Speaker be impeached/removed . The congress then suffered disruptions and interruptions, so it couldn't continue smoothly. The President (Congress moderator) then claimed that Petkoff submission is a standing one and it has been adopted as the resolution of the congress ; The weird thing is why will one person's submission be the "resolution of the majority", ludicrous, isn't it?

Some persons loyal to the President claimed that based on Petkoff's submission, the judicial Council and committees have been dissolved, and the speaker suspended - That's the most "ridiculous" thing I have ever heard. Now I remember, the Deputy Speaker is Dr IBk's loyalist and permutations made him emerge as Deputy Speaker cos the best person for that position in line with in-house manifesto conducted for the house leadership election is Hon. Leveller. So, by now, I believe he would be seeing himself as the speaker.... Hmmm.... What a small world!!!

As far as I am concerned and maybe some clear-headed individuals, the congress of June 8th was a sham - The committees and Judicial Council still remain intact and standing! Mr Temitope is still the speaker and if they really do want to remove him, "they" should go and study the constitution well.

I am still shocked that because of one man(Ifeteye) and a few persons he promised committee membership, the President wants to dissolve the Judicial Council and committee - That act is close to an act of folly and most likely  abuse of powers, more like chasing the wind...

"FINAL NOTE"

I opine that the President should  not prepare the plans for his own "fall". First, it was Division in his executive council,another was his disgraceful act at Anglo-moz in early may, let me even mention the rumor that he is not in good terms with his next in command, now he has put his legs in the same trousers as "Mr Speaker".

As much as I would love to watch this drama, I feel it may end "tragically"...

I think the President should set things right, put his house in order. I advise that the speaker too do the right things.

One thing I know is that there is more chapters to this story and the ball is in their courts to end the story now or allow it to proceed to the next level.

And if the President is not careful, he might be put against the run of play.

For now, I want to sit, relax, and enjoy the drama unfolding before us..

On a final note, "Let the President continue 'Presiding' and the Speaker continue 'Speaking' "... 

     

Omole Isaac Adeonipekun (O'Zik) is a student of the Faculty of law, a Journalist, an editor, an analyst, and a social commentator. You can reach him via [email protected]

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