Opinion

Dear Young Folks (Series 8) “Breaking Free: The Power of Resilience and Focus in the Journey to Success”

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Dear Young Folks, As early as the age of 14, I yearned for a freedom I knew wouldn’t come easily. I had a dream and a vision of everything I wanted, etched vividly in my mind. The years rolled by, and with every opportunity that came my way, I carefully executed my plans, one step at a time. However, as I grew older, the path to fulfilling my desires became more challenging. Along the way, I created more enemies, faced unforeseen battles, and waged wars I never anticipated. When I took my first shot at breaking free in 2013, I was unprepared for the struggles that had plagued my growth over the years. The freedom I once sought seemed to be consuming me, and at some point, I fell into a dark pit of despair. Yes, depression is real, and if not properly managed, it can make death seem like the only way to escape the weight of one’s worries. It’s easy to assume that everything is perfect when looking at the curated life I once displayed online. But pain is real, and it’s personal. I won’t air my dirty laundry here, but I will say this: if therapy is an option for you, don’t hesitate to seek it. In the eye of the storm, pause. Take a deep breath. Reassess your position, re-strategize, reinvent yourself, rebrand, and above all, stay alive. The most valuable gift is life itself, and the ultimate victory belongs to the one who endures to fight another day. A part of me was deeply broken in 2024, and that version of myself was laid to rest with the outgone year. It’s sad to bid farewell to the person I once was, but as I mourn him, I’m here, finding the courage to break free from trauma, rebuild, and improve my engagements moving forward. To young adults: Stay steadfast and focused in the pursuit of your dreams. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but your resilience and determination will lead to unimaginable growth. Do not be discouraged by setbacks or overwhelmed by the expectations of others. Instead, channel your energy into building the life you envision. As the saying goes, “Success comes to those who work hard and work smart; it’s not just about laboring, but about striving with wisdom and purpose.” Wishing you all the very best in 2025. Cheers IA

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Prioritizing Lives: Rethinking Emergency Response in Oyo State

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Two days ago, I witnessed two ambulances drive out of an event at Adamasingba Stadium, where over 1,000 people had gathered. This happened right at the peak of the event, raising serious questions about how intentional we are in ensuring effective emergency rescue operations. Amidst the ongoing Oriyomi saga – which increasingly feels like a witch hunt – it is crucial to shift focus back to what truly matters: protecting lives. This incident brings critical questions to the forefront: 1. What is the value of our investment in fire rescue, accident response, and emergency services? How many fire engines and ambulances have been purchased in the last six years? 2. How many first responders have been trained since the Bodija incident? Have there been significant improvements in our emergency response framework, or are we still reacting with the same inefficiency that has cost lives in the past? 3. What structures are in place to ensure the safety of citizens during large public events? While event organizers bear responsibility for safety measures, the state cannot absolve itself of the duty to provide overarching security and emergency frameworks. The reality is that the lives of our citizens must take precedence over political distractions. It is time to reassess our priorities and invest in robust emergency services that reflect the value we place on human life. Public safety should not be treated as an afterthought or left to chance – it must become a central component of governance. As we reflect on these issues, the state must not only ask hard questions but provide transparent answers and clear action plans. The security and well-being of Oyo State’s residents should never be compromised by oversight or neglect.

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Shaping Young Minds Through Conversations

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One of my boys called me recently, asking for a data subscription for their mi-fi. As the call was ending, he reminded me not to forget. Just as I was about to hang up, I heard his younger brother chime in, “Thank God you said that because my daddy forgets everything.” With that, they cheerfully said, “Bye Dad.” After the call, I sat quietly, reflecting on that brief exchange. I realized I couldn’t overlook this moment. If they are sharp enough to notice and point out my forgetfulness, then surely, they are ready for conversations about responsibility, empathy, and thoughtfulness. Without delay, I called them back. “Hi Al-Ameen, I haven’t heard from you in days. The only time we spoke was yesterday through Grandma’s phone, but you’ve been talking to almost everyone else. Next time you reach out to someone – even if they have obligations to you – start by building a conversation. It’s important.” As I spoke, I recalled their grandmother once telling me they hesitate to call because they assume I’m too busy and won’t answer, or that I’ll promise to call back but never do. That realization hit hard. I set aside my pride, acknowledged my fault, and stayed focused on the lesson I needed to share. Al-Ameen paused, then softly replied, “I’m sorry, Daddy.” Just like that, the moment passed, but the seed of understanding had been planted. It’s easy to overlook these small but essential details in life. We often receive calls from friends, family, or long-lost relatives who only reach out when they need attention, affection, or financial support. It starts from somewhere – the absence of meaningful conversations, the lack of genuine connection. Marriage and parenting are full-time commitments. As parents, we are the first and most influential agents of socialization for our children. Conversations, no matter how brief, shape their understanding of relationships, respect, and empathy. We must never assume they are too young to grasp these lessons. They are always listening, watching, and learning – it’s our responsibility to guide them with intentionality and care. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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“Silence and Injustice: The Oriyomi Hamzat Case and the Rot in Our Judicial System” 

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Few days ago, I came across a Facebook post by someone demanding that all Radio General Managers in the city publicly stand in solidarity with Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat. While this might seem like a noble cause, it raises deeper questions about the rot in our society, particularly the lack of critical thought, emotional intelligence, and our collective inability to read the room. For days, I refrained from commenting on the tragic incident that claimed many lives, even though the direction in which we should point accusing fingers is glaringly obvious. However, I cannot ignore the unlawful detention of one of the few journalists left who dares to stand for social justice, government accountability, and the rule of law, only to be victimized by the very system he fights to reform. The media’s silence when the news broke was deafening, further eroding trust in their credibility. Now, comments like the one I read cast an even darker shadow on the media’s ethical standards. Where are the NBC codes? Where are the principles of ethical journalism? Why do we resort to sensationalism instead of addressing such issues with the seriousness they deserve? In this case, we have not only witnessed the enemies of Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat roaring, but also the silence of so-called allies—betraying their oaths to uphold professionalism and ethical journalism. This silence speaks volumes. Perhaps the most glaring indictment of the rot in our judicial systems is the alarming speed with which this case is being handled. While countless others languish in the backlog of justice, awaiting their turn for a trial, this matter has been fast-tracked, exposing the deep flaws, biases, and corruption that plague our legal system. It is yet another reminder that justice is neither fair nor impartial in this system. Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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“Reclaiming Accountability: The Need for Ethical and Prepared Journalism in Nigeria” 

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The recently held Presidential Media Chat with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked widespread discussions, with one recurring theme standing out – the glaring unpreparedness of the journalists in attendance. This lack of preparedness reveals deeper issues within the media landscape, including inadequate research, poor questioning, and a general failure to seize critical opportunities for accountability. A key concern is the journalists’ inability to spotlight the glaring failures across various sectors and ministries. The platform presented a rare chance to question the President directly, yet no effort was made to call out specific ministers or hold them accountable for their underperformance. This omission reflects a troubling trend – the pervasive culture of compromise within the media, often referred to as “brown envelope” journalism. Rather than acting as a bridge between the public and government, some journalists appear to prioritize personal gain over professional integrity. This compromises the essential role of the press in fostering transparency and building a functioning society. The result is a media environment where tough questions are avoided, and the opportunity to drive meaningful change is consistently squandered. Way Forward: 1. Capacity Building and Training:Journalists must undergo regular training to enhance their investigative skills and deepen their understanding of governance and public policy. This will ensure they ask informed and impactful questions during such high-profile engagements. 2. Strengthening Media Ethics:Media houses and regulatory bodies should reinforce ethical standards, discouraging the practice of “brown envelope” journalism through stricter penalties and incentives for ethical reporting. 3. Public Engagement and Pressure:Citizens and civil society organizations should demand more from the media by holding journalists accountable for their performance during key national events. Public pressure can encourage more responsible and courageous journalism. 4. Transparency and Support for Journalists:The government and independent organizations should create mechanisms to protect and support journalists who pursue investigative stories, ensuring they are not left vulnerable to threats or financial inducements. For Nigeria to progress, the media must reclaim its role as the watchdog of society, prioritizing the collective good over personal gain. Without this shift, the cycle of underperformance and lack of accountability will persist, hindering national development.

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Dear Young Folks (Series 7) Embracing the Journey: The Power of Quitting to Move Forward

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Dear Young Folks Exactly ten years ago, I withdrew from my ongoing Postgraduate Diploma in Landscape Architecture just two weeks into the first semester exams. The bi-weekly journey from Enugu to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria was not only financially draining but also emotionally exhausting. Additionally, the program was not eligible for a Master of Science in Architecture. Nearly five years ago, I started almost from scratch, graduating in the top three of my faculty in 2022. I then proceeded to pursue a Master of Science in Architecture, only to call it quits a few weeks before the first semester exams. Initially, it was about the funds needed to continue, but funds arrived a week after I made the decision. It dawned on me that it was never about the money; it was my intention to take time off to focus on the February 25 and March 18 general elections, where some of my friends were participating. While some of my peers, with whom I started the program, will be graduating in a few weeks, I had a very special moment attending the induction into the postgraduate program again last week, knowing that I had already completed one semester. This experience further proves my resilience and my determination to do things at my own pace. I am my only competition, running my race not to finish first but to ensure I complete it no matter what. I have learned to call it quits if necessary, only to come back stronger and excel. So, when you hear “don’t quit,” it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t take a step back and reassess the situation before continuing. Those motivations can often become “motigbetional,” and you might struggle to continue what you should have stopped. Quit if you must, but don’t stop moving forward. Congratulations My Guy. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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Enhancing Communication and Accountability in Oyo State Ministries: A note to Michael Ogunsina

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Many agencies and ministries in Oyo State employ young aides to support political appointees, yet it remains difficult to reach these bodies via official emails. This gap forces individuals to resort to the unsustainable practice of delivering documents in person. It is perplexing to hear frequent excuses about the government’s inability to adequately empower some appointees. However, setting up an official email address is a basic administrative task that does not require high-level intervention. It is unreasonable to expect His Excellency to address such fundamental needs. Every government agency should establish a comprehensive feedback mechanism beyond the existing Oyo State Government Feedback system. I have observed numerous local government chairmen appointing aides to empower friends and supporters, yet these aides often fail to contribute meaningfully. Instead, they focus on disseminating trivial news, lacking any substantial engagement. Effective communication tools such as newsletters, webinars, apps, and forums like Nairaland should be utilized. When implementing these tools, ensure they are transferable and not dependent on individual officeholders. For example, some official Instagram accounts ceased functioning once the officeholders left, demonstrating a lack of continuity. As young professionals, we must strive to make lasting, intentional impacts regardless of our positions. It is essential to transcend the practice of merely sharing broadcast messages and copied posts across WhatsApp. Genuine relevance comes from making significant contributions that showcase intelligence and value to the realization of policies and projects. Instead of waiting to attack dissenting voices, demonstrate your capabilities through constructive actions. Ogunsina Oluwaseun Michael, I am disappointed by the current performances of some youths of the party working as aides in some departments and agencies because of their lack and of implementing an effective publicity and communication channels. That of Ministry of Agriculture’s significant work is concerning to mention at least, you can barely reach quite a number of these offices via any official channel. The public needs to be aware of the ministry’s activities and achievements but also an Avenue for which they can equally be officially reached. I require the official email addresses for the Ministries of Youth and Sports, Agriculture, Environment, Works, and Lands and Housing by the close of business tomorrow. Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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Effective Waste Management: Idris Animasaun score Temitope Glorious high on Municipal Waste Management

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Kolapo Temitope Glorious has initiated a competition to win the Best LG (Local Government) of the Year award. His recent efforts in evacuating a significant volume of waste from the Olorunsogo bridge a few weeks ago clearly demonstrate the necessity of decentralizing waste management in the state. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the state government to enhance waste collection services. By breaking the previous monopoly held by Mottainai Recy and incorporating additional relevant contractors, there have already been notable improvements in waste management. However, it is crucial to explore more sustainable solutions beyond these initial steps. Decentralizing waste management allows for tailored approaches that consider the unique needs of different communities. Localized strategies can be more responsive and efficient, addressing waste issues at their source rather than relying solely on centralized systems. This approach not only improves the effectiveness of waste collection but also fosters community involvement and accountability. Furthermore, our current systems and neighborhood planning underscore the challenges of motorizing waste management. The infrastructure in many areas is not conducive to large-scale waste collection vehicles, which often struggle with accessibility and maneuverability in densely populated or poorly planned neighborhoods. By adopting decentralized methods, we can implement more flexible and adaptive solutions, such as smaller, more agile vehicles or community-based collection points, which can significantly enhance efficiency. Additionally, promoting waste reduction and recycling at the local level is essential. Educational campaigns and community initiatives can encourage residents to minimize waste generation and participate in recycling programs. This not only reduces the burden on waste collection systems but also contributes to environmental sustainability. In conclusion, while the state’s efforts to improve waste collection through diversified contracting are commendable, it is imperative to pursue further sustainable solutions. Decentralizing waste management, improving neighborhood planning, and fostering community involvement are key strategies that can address the underlying challenges and pave the way for a cleaner, more efficient waste management system. Idris Animasaun  Architect and Social Change Advocate  Writes from Molete, Ibadan.

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DEMOCRACY DAY 2024: Idris Animasaun pens Open Letter to the Governor Advocating for Balanced Governance and Youth Empowerment in Oyo State.

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I believed it had been a positive experience engaging with our friends and associates in government, leveraging those relationships to offer our insights and advice where needed. Your leadership and dedication to the youth constituency are evident in your decision to entrust the future of the state to over 50 young individuals serving as commissioners, SSAs, SAs, EAs, Council Chairmen, or Vice Chairmen. However, under your administration, the state is almost becoming a one-party state. We have heard faint voices warning some individuals not to publicly associate with us, labeling us as opposition or a threat to their political careers. While it is understandable that some may submit to such autocratic pressures, we will not subject ourselves to enmity and dissociation. Instead, we continue to offer our support and collaboration in the ongoing effort to reposition the state and restore its former glory. Despite these challenges, this administration is the closest I have ever been to any government. Yet, I have never exploited this relationship for personal gain. I have no proposals seeking approval, no projects requiring endorsements, and I have never lobbied for any position, despite having ample connections to explore such opportunities. This commitment has enabled us to champion causes that have yielded positive results. We have seen responses to our calls, such as the relocation of the amusement park to Ilu-Tuntun, the upgrade of Agodi Gardens, the remodeling of the Government House, improvements in environmental management, and numerous emergency responses to road and drainage issues. Our actions have always been about asking relevant questions, not making libelous or malicious statements. I have never engaged in confrontational dialogue on any radio program with His Excellency. However, it is imperative that we do not all simply sing praises. I supported and voted for Seyi Makinde, but it would be a disservice to my conscience to remain silent in the face of oppressive and capitalist policies. All I seek are answers to the many questions posed by concerned citizens. My name has been mentioned numerous times due to the questions I continue to ask, not because I stand against or denigrate the achievements of your administration. Some of my articles you have read and responded to publicly, but I hope and pray that you continue to be properly briefed on our intentions and statements. The news and rumors circulating close to your office are becoming a major source of concern. Therefore, I advocate for continuous engagement rather than silencing dissenting voices, which are often misconstrued as opposition. On this Democracy Day, I pray you continue to receive guidance from God as you uphold the rule of law as outlined in your Omituntun road-map to sustainable development and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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The Importance of Positive Fan Conduct for Club Reputation and Success: Idris Animasaun pens Open Letter to 3SC Fans and Journalists

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I have been participating in various forums since the game ended, and one of the key topics for our radio discussion later today should be to commend Ibadan fans for their exemplary conduct thus far, encouraging them to continue this positive behavior. We must avoid stadium violence at this critical point in the season, regardless of the referee’s decisions and game results. However, it’s crucial to address the negative impact of stadium encroachments on the club’s image and publicity. We’ve invested considerable effort into elevating this league’s status, and incidents of violence detract significantly from these efforts. Instead of focusing on a negative and unfortunate conclusion to what could have been one of the season’s highlights in the Rangers versus Enyimba game yesterday, we should celebrate the vibrant atmosphere, the colorful displays, and the largely fair officiating. Stadium violence not only tarnishes the reputation of the club but also undermines the hard work and dedication of players, staff, and loyal fans. Such incidents can lead to severe penalties, including fines and stadium bans, which can hurt the club financially and disrupt our home game advantage. Moreover, they project a negative image to potential sponsors and partners who are crucial for the club’s growth and success. We should shift our focus towards positivity and rally support for the upcoming game against the antelopes from Enugu, ensuring the stands are filled as usual. Our fans are the best in the league, providing unwavering support at home and demonstrating resilience away, earning crucial points and positioning ourselves for continental football and possibly winning the title. As dedicated supporters, we must remember that our behavior directly influences the club’s public perception. Positive fan conduct can enhance the club’s image, attracting more fans, better sponsorship deals, and greater media attention, all of which are vital for long-term success. We are warriors, and our battle is far from over. Let’s maintain our strong support and positive presence. Up Sootin!

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