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Opinion

The discordant voices in Ekiti APC

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By Gboyega Adeoye 

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State should be more alive to political happenings around him. The State’s All Progressives Congress (APC) may be gradually bleeding and there is need to be circumspect so as to be able to treat and then pull through 2026 political huddles seamlessly.

Yes, Governor Oyebanji should be attentive to the tiny sounds of the political drumbeats of the moment.

Many party members are unhappy. They are old politicians now being thought what’s to them arrant political gibberish.

Or how could you overlook your political party members to be throwing political favours overboard into the camp of visible opponent? How can members be comfortable in their enforced mute mode when appointments meant for them are given away to opponents?

Certainly they think all is not too smooth any longer with their beloved party and they are angry.

Many party leaders in the state expressed concern that party politics have changed dangerously in recent time, fueling suspicions that APC may be forced onto a rough road towards 2026

Kirijtimes investigation reveals that the APC is fast loosing steam among some members who have no smooth access to the Governor. A coterie of party members and cronies of the governor, are believed to have fenced out the bulk of members and they are currently disgruntled.

The situation is so bad that party activities at the ward and Constituency levels are almost zero. Members are unhappy, believing they can’t be working for a privileged few

The fear is that a ruling party with all chances of having unfettered access to holding on to power beyond 2026 is not only neglecting the bulk of its members but also arming it’s major opposition in the state, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), against itself.

Feelers are that, like never before, a lot of appointments went to the opposition PDP under the administration of incumbent governor Oyebanji, to the bewilderment of APC members in the state

It is also rumored that the ongoing overhead bridge project in the capital city Ado Ekiti, which is the biggest and most substantive contract by the administration, was awarded to a top PDP member and former governor of the state, who is now openly supporting the second coming of BAO.

In the face of the current political anomalies, elected members of the administration found a safe haven in Ado Ekiti, thus leaving members of their constituents and wards in tense political wilderness.

Ward meetings, seldom hold across the state and wherever it holds, you can only found few old members who will be there discussing their ordeal or how things are no longer the way it used to be with the party.

The pain among the tiring former committed members is that only the beneficiaries of present administration cannot mussle enough election strength that could guarantee victory for APC, should the table turned against whatever personal strategy the governor may be nursing

A staunch member who spoke to us on condition of anonymity said there are already whispers that the coming elections would spring some surprises within the party as feelers are assuming some level of reality that strong contenders within the party may start expressing their intention in the early part of 2025

The fear is that such development may badly polarize the party ahead of election and make victory for APC a mirage should the PDP has a gameplan they conceive and would eventually come up with.

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Opinion

Future of Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment: A Path to Hope and Innovation

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By Abaire Olanlesi

Sickle cell anemia, a hereditary blood disorder, remains a significant global health challenge. As one of the most common genetic diseases, it affects millions worldwide, predominantly among people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian ancestry.

The disorder alters the shape of red blood cells, turning them from their normal round and flexible form into rigid, crescent-shaped cells that obstruct blood flow, causing severe pain, organ damage, and increased vulnerability to infections.

The Burden of Sickle Cell Anemia

The complications of sickle cell anemia extend far beyond pain crises. The disease manifests in various forms, including chronic anemia, leading to fatigue and shortness of breath due to insufficient oxygen supply.

Frequent infections are also common, as sickle cell patients have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to severe illnesses.

Severe pain episodes, also known as sickle cell crises, occur when blood vessels become blocked by sickled cells, causing intense pain and requiring urgent medical attention.

In addition to pain, the disease can lead to delayed growth and development, particularly in children, as reduced oxygen flow affects normal body functions.

Many patients also experience organ damage, including kidney disease and vision problems, which develop over time due to prolonged blood vessel blockages.

These challenges highlight the urgent need for better treatment strategies and long-term solutions.

New Era of Treatment and Hope

For decades, treatment for sickle cell anemia has focused on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Hydroxyurea, a drug that increases the production of fetal hemoglobin, has been widely used to reduce the severity of the disease.

Blood transfusions have also helped manage complications, but these methods do not offer a permanent solution.

Recent advancements in medical research, however, suggest that a cure may no longer be out of reach.

Gene editing therapy, particularly with CRISPR technology, is among the most promising breakthroughs.

Scientists have demonstrated that by correcting the genetic mutation responsible for sickle cell anemia, they can potentially cure the disease at its root.

Clinical trials have already shown remarkable improvements in patients treated with gene therapy, raising hope for a future where sickle cell is no longer a lifelong condition.

New medications such as voxelotor and luspatercept are also improving blood oxygen levels and reducing the frequency of pain crises, allowing patients to lead healthier and more productive lives.

The emergence of precision medicine, which tailors treatment plans based on an individual’s genetic profile, is another groundbreaking approach that enhances patient outcomes and provides more effective, targeted therapies.

The Role of Genetic Counseling

Beyond treatment, genetic counseling is playing an increasingly important role in sickle cell prevention.

By helping prospective parents understand their risk of passing the disease to their children, genetic counseling provides critical guidance on family planning and reproductive options.

Increased awareness and accessibility to genetic screening can significantly reduce new cases and promote informed decision-making among at-risk individuals.

Why Advancing Sickle Cell Treatment Matters

The potential for a cure through gene-editing technologies represents a major milestone in medical science, offering hope to millions living with sickle cell anemia.

Beyond the promise of a permanent cure, the development of new drugs and therapies is transforming patient care by reducing complications, improving quality of life, and extending life expectancy.

Expanding healthcare access through innovative models such as telemedicine and community-based programs is also helping to bridge the gap in underserved regions, ensuring that more patients receive the care they need.

A Call for Action

Sickle cell anemia remains a formidable health challenge, but progress is being made.

Scientific advancements, increased advocacy, and better healthcare accessibility are paving the way for improved patient outcomes.

However, more efforts are needed to address healthcare disparities, enhance public education, and combat stigma associated with the disease.

With continued investment in research and policy reforms, those living with sickle cell anemia can receive the care, support, and ultimately, the cure they deserve.

The future is bright, and with collective action, sickle cell anemia can be transformed from a life-limiting illness into a manageable or even curable condition.

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Opinion

The Dark Side of Scavenging in Abuja: Health, Security, and Environmental Risks

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By Ade Iyamoye 

Scavenging, commonly known as ‘Baban Bola’ in Abuja, has become a source of growing concern for residents. While it provides a means of livelihood for many, the activities of these waste pickers are increasingly associated with health hazards, environmental degradation, and security threats.

Scavengers operate without protective gear, exposing themselves and the public to harmful waste materials. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to toxic substances from waste dumps leads to respiratory infections, skin diseases, and eye irritation. The unhygienic handling of waste also increases the risk of disease outbreaks, endangering both the scavengers and the communities they operate in.

The indiscriminate sorting and disposal of waste contribute to environmental pollution. In some cases, scavengers resort to burning electronic waste to extract valuable metals, releasing harmful chemicals into the air. This practice not only depletes air quality but also contaminates soil and water sources, posing long-term risks to public health.

Beyond environmental and health risks, scavengers are increasingly linked to criminal activities. Residents have reported cases of vandalism, with scavengers stripping metal fittings from abandoned buildings, streetlights, and even vehicles. Some have also been accused of using their trade as a cover for theft and violent crimes, prompting calls for stricter regulations.

In certain instances, scavenger activities have led to fatal accidents. A tragic case in Abuja’s Sabon-Lugbe area saw a building collapse after scavengers tampered with its structure in search of scrap metal. Such incidents underscore the urgent need for authorities to enforce waste management laws and prevent further loss of lives.

While scavenging remains a survival strategy for many, its adverse effects cannot be ignored. The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) and law enforcement agencies must implement stricter regulations to curb illegal scavenging. Providing alternative employment opportunities, improving waste recycling systems, and educating scavengers on safe practices could help mitigate the dangers associated with their activities.

If left unchecked, the menace of indiscriminate scavenging could escalate, posing even greater risks to Abuja residents. Now is the time for urgent action to protect public health, security, and the environment.

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Opinion

NYSC: Some Nigerian Youths Are Unemployable

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By Our Correspondent 

In a nation of over 200 million people, Nigeria is home to an immense youthful population, with young people aged between 15 and 35 making up over 60% of the total population.

However, despite the large number of young people in the country, there is a growing concern among employers, educators, and policymakers about the increasing unemployability of Nigerian youths.

What was once viewed as an enthusiastic and ambitious generation ready to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth is now grappling with issues that hinder its ability to participate in the workforce.

One of the major initiatives meant to address youth unemployment in Nigeria is the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The scheme, established in 1973 to foster national unity and development, has, over the years, become a rite of passage for university graduates.

The NYSC aims to equip young people with leadership skills, promote national integration, and serve as a platform to improve community development.

However, recent trends suggest that the current crop of corps members are often failing to live up to the scheme’s expectations.

A number of factors contribute to this growing crisis, from lack of initiative and laziness to inadequate education and skills development.

These challenges are exacerbated by a higher education system that has long been criticized for failing to equip students with marketable skills.

As a result, the reality of a significant number of Nigerian youths being unemployable looms large.

 

A Crisis of Skills

One of the core reasons for the growing unemployability of Nigerian youths is the disconnect between what is taught in schools and what the job market requires.

According to a 2022 report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), over 23 million Nigerian youths are unemployed, with many more underemployed or working in informal sectors.

These numbers are reflective of a broader trend: the mismatch between academic qualifications and industry demands.

The Nigerian education system, particularly at the tertiary level, is often criticized for prioritizing theoretical knowledge over practical skills.

Most graduates leave university with limited hands-on experience, making them ill-prepared to meet the demands of the modern workforce. Furthermore, a significant proportion of graduates struggle with soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that are essential for success in any job.

For example, recent surveys have shown that many Nigerian university graduates are unable to effectively express themselves in English, the language of business in the country.

A study by the World Bank highlighted that only 29% of university graduates in Nigeria were considered “adequately skilled” for the labor market.

 

The Role of NYSC

The NYSC program, which is supposed to provide young Nigerians with opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute to national development, has also faced criticisms.

While some corps members utilize their service year to acquire valuable work experience and contribute meaningfully to their communities, others fail to do so, often due to a lack of initiative or apathy.

In some cases, it has been observed that some corps members exhibit laziness and an unwillingness to take on responsibilities.

A large number of them are unable to perform basic tasks such as communicating effectively in English, while some are unable to even write their names correctly.

Moreover, many corps members are reluctant to take up posts outside urban centers, preferring to serve in more comfortable locations.

This reluctance to step outside their comfort zones limits the potential impact of the NYSC program. The National Youth Service Corps was designed to address regional disparities and encourage national unity, but in recent years, it appears to have lost some of its relevance, especially in the face of widespread apathy and a lack of engagement from the youth.

 

The Impact on National Development

The implications of a growing population of unemployable youths are vast. When young people are unable to contribute meaningfully to the economy, it places a significant strain on national development.

The lack of a skilled workforce impacts industries across all sectors, from agriculture to technology, and limits the country’s ability to compete globally.

The rise of the “youth bulge,” where the population of young people continues to grow while job opportunities remain stagnant, has resulted in frustration, disillusionment, and in some cases, social unrest.

In a country where 60% of the population is under the age of 35, a failure to adequately address youth employability could exacerbate existing problems such as insecurity, poverty, and migration. For instance, the high rate of youth unemployment has been linked to the increase in youth involvement in criminal activities and militancy.

With no meaningful opportunities, many young Nigerians are turning to illegal ventures as a means of survival.

The Boko Haram insurgency, which has plagued the northeast, is a stark example of how unengaged and unemployed youths can be manipulated into violent extremism.

 

Efforts to Address the Problem

The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the employability of Nigerian youths.

Programs such as the Nigerian Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (NYESO), and the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), are designed to address youth unemployment and provide support for small businesses and job creation.

However, the scale of these programs often falls short of addressing the root causes of unemployability.

Additionally, there have been efforts to encourage skills acquisition and vocational training. Programs such as the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), provide various training opportunities for youths in different sectors.

These initiatives have had some success, but they often lack the necessary infrastructure and support to create lasting change. There is also the issue of youth mindset; many young Nigerians still place premium on white-collar jobs and are reluctant to embrace vocational training or entrepreneurship, viewing them as inferior alternatives.

 

The Way Forward

To tackle the issue of unemployability, a multifaceted approach is required. First, Nigeria needs a comprehensive overhaul of its education system.

This includes integrating practical skills training into the curriculum from an early age, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging entrepreneurial mindsets.

Educational institutions must focus on producing graduates who are not only academically capable but also possess the skills required to succeed in the real world.

Furthermore, the NYSC program should be restructured to encourage more proactive participation from corps members.

Instead of seeing their service year as an obligation, corps members should be encouraged to see it as an opportunity for self-improvement and contribution to national development.

This can be achieved through mentorship, leadership development programs, and exposure to real-world challenges.

In addition, the government must prioritize job creation and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Reducing the barriers to entry for small businesses, supporting startups, and investing in infrastructure are key components of this strategy.

Equally important is promoting the value of vocational training and entrepreneurship as viable alternatives to white-collar employment.

 

Conclusion

The unemployability of Nigerian youths is a crisis that requires urgent attention.

It is a crisis that is rooted in systemic issues within the education sector, a lack of skills development, and an inability to adapt to changing economic realities.

However, it is not insurmountable. By reforming the education system, improving vocational training, and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, Nigeria can turn its youthful population from a burden into a boon.

It is time for both the government and the private sector to take bold steps toward tackling the root causes of youth unemployability and creating an environment where young Nigerians can thrive. The future of the nation depends on it.

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