The Northernization Policy: Origins, Politics, and Power Dynamics in Pre-Independence Nigeria

PART ONE — Foundations of the Northernization Policy in Kaduna Colonial Legacy, Regional Politics, and the Making of a Divided Structure By Paul Nkom Yashim Introduction Before independence, the colonial administration placed little priority on developing Northern Nigeria. But with self-rule, the region’s indigenous leadership — particularly under Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto […]

Hidden Cost of Excluding Women from Africa’s Digital Economy

  Just five years remain before the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development deadline, which the world set to make equality a reality for all. Yet global poverty retains a female face. Countries worldwide have ratified conventions and declarations promising inclusion, but ten percent of women still live in extreme poverty, a number that has barely […]

Nigerian Women March in Abuja to Back Reserved Seats, Independent Candidacy Bills

https://www.icirnigeria.org/

Hundreds of women from across Nigeria converged in Abuja on Monday in a mass march to demand the passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill and the Independent Candidacy Bill currently under consideration at the National Assembly. The women, drawn from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, began their procession at the […]

A Case for Eldercare in Nigeria

Eldercare in Nigeria is rapidly becoming a matter of national urgency. Traditionally, elderly Nigerians have relied on family members for support, often rotating among children or relatives who provided care and companionship. However, societal and economic changes are eroding this support system, raising questions about Nigeria’s readiness to address the needs of its ageing population. […]

Ending Ritual Killings in Nigeria: The Role of Traditional Rulers and Religious Leaders

The increasing cases of ritual killings, particularly targeting young girls in Nigeria, have become a national concern. To effectively combat this menace, traditional rulers across the country must take decisive action, following the exemplary leadership of the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari. In a commendable […]

“Packed Like Sardines: A Challenging Trip Across Niger and Kwara”

I had to travel from Bida, Niger State, to Ilorin. Initially, I thought the distance wasn’t much, so rather than leave as early as 6 or 7 a.m., I decided to leave around 9 a.m. When I got to the popular park I know, there were no vehicles ready. Then, a metallic-colored two-door car passed […]

THE PAINFUL SILENCE: WHEN WILL OUR FOUR DETAINED JOURNALISTS BE FREE?

By Omotayo Ayanda As the new year unfolds, a haunting question lingers in the hearts of families, colleagues, and advocates: When will Olurotimi Olawale, Precious Eze Chukwunonso, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami be free once again? Since their detention in September last year, these journalists have endured separation from their loved ones, forced to spend […]

Youth Entrepreneurship Takes Center Stage at AbikeAmosun Foundation’s Empowerment Programme

Youth Entrepreneurship Takes Center Stage at AbikeAmosun Foundation’s Empowerment Programme The AbikeAmosun Foundation, in partnership with the Ayetoro Youths Association, has successfully hosted a groundbreaking one-day business empowerment programme at the New Gbadebo Omidokun Hall in Ayetoro-Yewa, Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun State. The event, which drew over 600 participants, aimed to equip youths […]

Honoring the Struggle for Public University Education in Nigeria

  The 2024 edition of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Heroes’ Day Celebration, held on November 12, was a profound reflection on the enduring struggle for the survival and revitalization of Nigeria’s public university system. The day is set aside to honour members who have made significant contributions to the Union. Professor Emmanuel […]