Opinion

Russia’s Unfortunate Stalemate

Published

3 years ago

March 3, 2023

Friday, February 24, 2023, was the eve of the long-awaited 2023 presidential election in Nigeria. For many, it was a chance to initiate a new paradigm even though some of the old guards were doubling down to cut their pound of flesh after decades of political toil. However, February 24 would remain in infamy, because it was the day almighty Russia started the greatest conflict the world has seen since the end of the Second World War. February 24, 2023, is the first anniversary of the Russia – Ukraine war. Unsurprisingly, in his classical delusion, President Vladimir Putin of Russia continues to refer to his war on Ukraine as simply a military operation, not minding the fact that the Red Army, has suffered more than 150,000 casualties according to some estimates. The strongman of the Kremlin has shown himself a villain willing to go to any length for his legacy, which is essentially to resurrect the Soviet Union. This is in every sense a pipe dream.

In the last quarter of 2021, it became clear to the global intelligence community that Putin was preparing to go to war when he began to amass military armaments, and create a supply line leading to the Ukrainian border. All the signs of an impending invasion were there, but the President of Ukraine, Vlodomire Zelensky, hoped against all odds that Putin’s madness never sees the light of day. That hope was misplaced because President Putin had an ‘oh yes’ intelligence, that told him the inversion of Ukraine would be a walk in the pack – an operation that would hardly last a month.

At the outset of the war in Ukraine, President Putin declared that the goals of his special military operation in the country were “demilitarisation and de-Nazification.” However, the position of most in the West was that these reasons were preposterous at best; and, one of the primary reasons was that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was a Jew and a descendant of Holocaust survivors. Therefore, one of Putin’s stated primary objectives was unachievable, the reason being that it was a farce and an idea in his mind.However, to understand Putin’s chief military objective, which was to demilitarize the country of Ukraine, the name, Mikhail Gorbachev must be mentioned, even though he died on August 30, 2022, six months after his country’s invasion of Ukraine.

He was the eighth, and the last President, and the one who supervised the dismantling of the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR) more than three decades ago. In the eyes of President Putin, Gorbachev supervised the “greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the twentieth century.” Why? Gorbachev was a man of peace who abhors bloodshed.For President Putin, and most of his henchmen, the conquest of Ukraine is a major plank in the calculus of the restoration of ‘Mother Russia.’ Putin intends to right the wrongs of the fall of the USSR in the cold war. Therefore, he set his agenda in motion in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea. Unfortunately, he misjudged the response of the international community, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), and the resolve of the Ukrainian people, and their army in particular. And as a consequence, Putin’s chief objective remains a mirage, but on the other hand, a perfectly hidden secret is out in the open. The whole world now knows that the Russian army is a paper bear.

Since Putin stamped his foot on the corridors of power about two decades ago, he has done everything possible to reverse the gains of a free society. Under his rule, Russia has become somewhat insular and having a free and democratic country next door was an anathema. So what does a Ukrainian defeat represent, bearing in mind the actions of Russia in Georgia, Belarus, and other Baltic states given the current geopolitical configuration, and the happenings in the South China Sea? A defeat for Ukraine in the first instance would mean the brutish takeover of an independent country, which goes contrary to every international law, including treaties that Russia, is a party to. But beyond that, it would mean that might is right; and therefore if the Chinese take over Taiwan by force it would be morally okay. It would also mean that no country unless a military superpower has the right to determine its political future without seeking leave from its powerful neighbours.

It also means that the global order and the primary purpose of the creation of the United Nations – which is to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, and promote social progress, better living standards, and human rights have been defeated by Russia.
It is also very encouraging that the US and its NATO allies, EU institutions, and EU countries have made stannous to support Ukraine in spite of the economic blowback effect of their sanction on Russia. For instance, research by Statista, a digital online research company shows that in course of one year, the US, EU institutions, EU countries, and NATO nations have doled out an estimated 130 billion Euros in bilateral, financial, humanitarian, and military aid to Ukraine.

The recent rally to support the Ukrainian army with modern tanks and other offensive weaponry is a major effort in the right direction, especially in the face of a new Russian offensive. But beyond military aid to Ukraine, the US must take a further step by joining the UK, Germany, Netherlands, France, and the Nordic, Baltic, and Eastern European countries to support Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s request that President Putin and his cronies by indicted. An OpEd by former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, in the UK Guardian on February 24 sums up Putin’s crimes when he wrote, “the crime of aggression is Putin’s original and fundamental crime, the one that has been the starting point for all the other atrocities. Aggression is a crime for which evidence is already available, and a special tribunal on aggression that complements the work of the international criminal court (ICC), now investigating war crimes and crimes against humanity, is the best way forward.” Would this deter China, vis a vis Taiwan? Only time would tell.

But, has Nigeria learned anything from the ongoing crises, especially given what played out across the country on Saturday, February 25, 2023? I am not sure. Because as one whose goddaughter had to flee Ukraine in the company of 5000 fellow Nigerians, because of war, I saw people who ordinarily would be unable to move their family out of the country in the event of war aiding and abating political terrorists across the country. We are still a country where some of the old political elite are doing everything possible to set the country on fire because their children are abroad. Nigeria should pay keen attention to global events and learn.

Doing everything possible to set the country on fire because their children are abroad. Nigeria should pay keen attention to global events and leader. All the signs of an impending invasion were there, but the President of Ukraine, Vlodomire Zelensky, hoped against all odds that Putin’s madness never sees the light of day. That hope was misplaced because President Putin had an ‘oh yes’ intelligence, that told him the inversion of Ukraine would be a walk in the pack – an operation that would hardly last a month.

In spite of the colossal failure of the Russian Army in the past year, the blow on the Russian economy, occasioned by sanctions, and the current stalemate of the war, President Putin continues to live in denial. Some in the west had anticipated some bit of truth during Putin’s rally last week to mark the one-year anniversary of his so-called military operations in Ukraine, it never happened, rather all he could say was the “special military operation is moving on step by step.” At this juncture in the war, after twelve months of indiscriminate bombardment, razing of civilian infrastructure, displacement of 8 million Ukrainians within their country, and the exile of more than 9 million others, what has Putin achieved? What does he continue to fight for? What would a Ukrainian defeat represent? How should the world continue to respond? What can Nigeria glean from the war, and the response of the Intentional Community so far?

By: Raphael Pepple

Opinion

Curbing Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

Published

2 weeks ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “A nation that fails to empower its youth risks mortgaging its future.”

Youth, generally defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, represent a critical phase of human development—a transition from adolescence to adulthood marked by ambition, energy, and the pursuit of purpose. In Nigeria, this demographic constitutes a significant proportion of the population, making it one of the country’s greatest assets. However, this strength is increasingly undermined by a persistent and troubling challenge: youth unemployment.

Unemployment, the condition of being without gainful employment despite the willingness and ability to work, remains a major global concern. In Nigeria, however, it has reached alarming levels, particularly among young people. With estimates suggesting that a substantial percentage of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed, the consequences have become deeply embedded in the nation’s social and economic fabric.

The impact of youth unemployment is both widespread and severe. Economically, it leads to increased poverty levels and reduced productivity. Socially, it fuels frustration, hopelessness, and disillusionment among young people. This often manifests in rising rates of crime, cyber fraud, substance abuse, and involvement in political violence. When young people are unable to find legitimate means of livelihood, they may become vulnerable to negative influences, posing a threat not only to themselves but to society at large.

One of the primary drivers of youth unemployment in Nigeria is the inadequacy of the educational system. While many young Nigerians graduate from tertiary institutions each year, a significant number lack the practical and technical skills required in today’s job market. The disconnect between academic curricula and industry demands leaves graduates ill-prepared for employment, thereby widening the gap between education and employability.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s heavy dependence on the oil sector has contributed significantly to the unemployment crisis. Over the years, this reliance has led to the neglect of other critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology—sectors that have the potential to generate large-scale employment. The failure to diversify the economy has limited job opportunities and stifled innovation, leaving many young people without viable career paths.

In addition, rapid population growth continues to put immense pressure on the labor market. Each year, thousands of graduates enter the workforce, but the number of available jobs remains insufficient to absorb them. This imbalance creates intense competition for limited opportunities, leaving many qualified individuals unemployed for extended periods.

Access to finance also remains a major barrier for young Nigerians who wish to venture into entrepreneurship. Despite the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that many youths possess, the lack of access to credit facilities, mentorship, and business support systems makes it difficult for them to establish and sustain their own enterprises. This challenge is further compounded by infrastructural deficits, such as unreliable power supply and limited access to technology.

Security challenges across various parts of the country have also worsened the situation. In some regions, economic hardship and lack of opportunities have made young people susceptible to recruitment into violent or extremist activities. This not only exacerbates insecurity but also diverts the energy of the youth away from productive engagement.

Addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The government must take the lead by implementing policies that promote economic diversification, particularly by investing in agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy. These sectors hold immense potential for job creation and can absorb a large portion of the unemployed youth population.

Equally important is the reform of the educational system to emphasize skill acquisition, vocational training, and entrepreneurship. Schools and institutions must align their curricula with market needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant and practical skills. Public-private partnerships can play a vital role in facilitating internships, apprenticeships, and job placement programs.

The private sector also has a crucial role to play in driving job creation and innovation. By investing in youth-focused initiatives and supporting startups, businesses can help unlock the potential of young Nigerians. Additionally, financial institutions should develop more accessible and youth-friendly credit schemes to support small and medium-sized enterprises.

On an individual level, young people must embrace self-development, adaptability, and continuous learning. In an increasingly competitive and evolving global economy, acquiring digital skills, engaging in vocational training, and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities can significantly improve employability.

In conclusion, youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today. However, it is not an insurmountable problem. With deliberate policies, strategic investments, and collective action from government, the private sector, and individuals, Nigeria can transform its youth population into a powerful engine of growth and development. By empowering young people with opportunities, skills, and resources, the nation can secure a more prosperous and stable future.

IVARA Favour Isaac is a student of Pan-African Institute of Management and Technology.

By: Ivara Favour Isaac

Opinion

Ozoro Festival: Tradition or Tyranny?

Published

2 weeks ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote:“These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.”

In recent days, national attention has turned to the small community of Ozoro in Delta State, where what was once described as a cultural fertility rite—the Alue-Do Festival—has become the subject of outrage, grief, and urgent national reflection. According to accounts from notable indigenes of Ozoro and the Isoko ethnic group, the festival was originally conceived as a symbolic ritual intended to bless couples struggling with conception. In theory, it was meant to celebrate life, continuity, and communal identity. However, what reportedly unfolded on March 22 bore no resemblance to any noble cultural ideal. Videos circulating widely on social media show groups of men chasing women, forcibly stripping them, and subjecting them to sexual assault in public spaces. These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.

They compel us to confront a difficult but necessary question: when does tradition cease to be culture and become tyranny? It is encouraging that prominent voices—including the First Lady, the Minister of Women Affairs, human rights organisations, and women’s advocacy groups—have condemned these barbaric acts. The Delta State Government has since banned the Alue-Do Festival, while law enforcement authorities have reportedly made arrests. Yet beyond the immediate outrage lies a deeper and more uncomfortable conversation—one that communities across the country must confront honestly: the thin line between culture and abuse. “Culture is not static—it evolves, or at least, it should.” Culture is often described as the soul of a people, encompassing traditions, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations. Nigeria is richly endowed with diverse cultural heritage, much of which we rightly celebrate.

However, when culture becomes a shield for harmful practices, it loses its moral authority. When actions that violate fundamental human rights are justified in the name of tradition, we must ask: whose culture is this, and at what cost? The events in Ozoro illustrate how a practice that may once have held symbolic meaning can devolve into something deeply harmful. Even if the Alue-Do Festival began as a benign fertility rite, its present manifestation—marked by violence and coercion—cannot be defended. “Culture must align with dignity, consent, and respect—anything less is not tradition, but abuse.” One of the most persistent arguments in defence of controversial practices is that they are “part of our heritage” and therefore beyond criticism. Yet harmful practices—child marriage, inhumane widowhood rites, and domestic abuse—have long been justified using this same reasoning. This argument is not only flawed; it is dangerous. No culture is above scrutiny, particularly when it endangers the rights and safety of its people.

History reminds us that many practices once considered “normal” are now widely condemned. Societies progress by questioning and reforming such practices—not by clinging to them. Nigeria is not exempt from this reality. As a nation governed by law and constitutional principles, we cannot afford to tolerate practices that undermine the rights of citizens—especially women. At the heart of the Ozoro incident lies a broader societal issue: the perception of women as objects rather than autonomous individuals. The actions of the perpetrators were not isolated—they were enabled by a mindset that sees women’s bodies as accessible, controllable, and, in some contexts, communal property. “Women are not possessions, prizes, or objects of exploitation—they are individuals with rights, agency, and dignity.” This mindset reflects a deeper systemic problem often described as “rape culture,” visible in victim-blaming narratives, the dismissal of harassment, and the silence that frequently surrounds abuse.

For meaningful change to occur, this mindset must be confronted directly. Parents, religious institutions, government agencies, and the media all have critical roles to play in reshaping societal attitudes. Traditional institutions also wield significant influence, particularly in rural communities. With that influence comes responsibility—not only to preserve culture but to ensure that cultural practices align with contemporary standards of human rights and decency.The reported denial by the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom of knowledge of the recent festival raises important questions about oversight and accountability. Community leaders and members alike must rise to their responsibilities. Cultural practices are sustained by collective acceptance. Silence, indifference, or complicity only perpetuate harm. While cultural reform is essential, it must be accompanied by accountability. The arrests made in connection with the incident are a step in the right direction, but they must lead to tangible outcomes. “Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.”

Allowing perpetrators of sexual violence to go unpunished sends a dangerous message—that such actions are tolerable. This fosters a culture of impunity. The law must be clear and unequivocal: sexual assault, in any form and under any guise, is a crime. It is not a cultural expression—it is a violation.It must be emphasised that calling for the abandonment of harmful cultural practices is not an attack on tradition, but a call to refine it. Culture, at its best, is dynamic—it adapts while preserving its core values.“Tradition should uplift, not oppress.” Modernising culture does not mean erasing identity. It means ensuring that traditions remain relevant, inclusive, and respectful of human dignity. As Nigeria continues to evolve, it must decide what kind of society it aspires to be: one that hides behind tradition to justify abuse, or one that embraces progress while honouring its heritage responsibly. The outrage over the events in Ozoro is justified—but outrage alone is not enough

. It must translate into action: legal, cultural, and educational. We must state, without ambiguity, that no tradition justifies the violation of human dignity. We must hold perpetrators accountable and challenge the attitudes that enable such acts. True development is measured not only by infrastructure or economic growth, but by how a society treats its most vulnerable members. “If a cultural practice dehumanises, degrades, or endangers, it has no place in a modern society.” Where tradition fails to uphold dignity, it ceases to be culture. It becomes tyranny.

By: Calista Ezeaku

Opinion

Bazia EXCO @ One: NUJ Rivers Reawakened

Published

3 weeks ago

March 23, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “For the first time in years, Rivers journalists are not just hearing promises—they are seeing a union that works.”

The first year in office of the Paul Bazia-led executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has offered something many had almost given up on—renewed confidence in union leadership. For a body as critical as the NUJ, whose responsibility goes beyond professional coordination to include the welfare, protection, and continuous development of journalists, expectations are always high. Unfortunately, past experiences had conditioned many members to expect less—less action, less visibility, and less impact.This is why the past twelve months stand out. Within a relatively short period, the Bazia-led administration has demonstrated a level of drive that distinguishes it from its predecessors. There is a noticeable shift from inertia to activity, from routine administration to purposeful leadership. Initiatives captured in the one-year report point to an executive that understands both the urgency of its mandate and the frustrations of its members.

Particularly commendable is the renewed attention to journalists’ welfare. For too long, welfare issues have lingered without meaningful resolution, leaving many practitioners feeling unsupported. The current leadership’s efforts—through engagement, structured support, and timely interventions—signal a welcome change in priorities. Equally important is the push toward professional development. In an era where journalism is rapidly evolving, capacity building is no longer optional. The administration’s commitment to training and skill enhancement reflects an understanding that a stronger union must be built on more competent and competitive professionals. There is also something to be said about visibility and voice. A vibrant NUJ must not only serve its members internally but also stand as a credible voice in the public space—defending press freedom, promoting ethical standards, and constructively engaging critical issues.

Encouragingly, the current executive appears more present and responsive, giving the union a renewed sense of relevance. Perhaps what resonates most, however, is the sense of movement. For many members, the difference between the present and the immediate past is not subtle—it is clear. Where there was once stagnation, there is now direction. Where there was doubt, there is growing belief. Beyond the visible strides recorded within this first year, what perhaps deserves even greater applause is the restoration of institutional confidence within the Nigeria Union of Journalists. For a long time, many members had grown disenchanted, viewing the union more as a ceremonial body than an active force capable of defending their interests and advancing their welfare. That narrative, however, is gradually changing. The Bazia-led executive has not only initiated programs but has also rekindled a sense of belonging among members.

Meetings appear more purposeful, engagements more intentional, and decisions more reflective of collective interest. This psychological shift—subtle as it may seem—is one of the most critical achievements of the past year, because a union that its members believe in is already halfway to effectiveness. It is also important to underscore the contrast with the immediate past, not as an exercise in criticism, but as a necessary context for measuring progress. Where previous administrations struggled to translate plans into action, the current leadership has shown a greater bias for execution. Projects that once lingered in discussion stages are now seeing tangible movement, and issues that were previously deferred are receiving attention. This difference in approach—moving from prolonged deliberation to decisive action—has helped reposition the union as a more responsive and relevant institution.

While no administration is without its shortcomings, the willingness to act, even in the face of constraints, marks a significant departure from what members were accustomed to. Looking ahead, the expectations of members—and indeed the wider public—will only grow stronger. With a solid first year behind it, the Bazia-led executive now carries the burden of consistency. Members will expect deeper welfare interventions that go beyond immediate relief to more sustainable support systems. They will look for expanded training opportunities that prepare journalists for the rapidly changing media landscape. They will also expect a firmer, more courageous voice on issues affecting press freedom and professional integrity. Above all, they will demand continuity—assurance that the progress recorded so far is not a fleeting phase but the beginning of a sustained transformation.

Meeting these expectations will not be easy, but it is precisely this challenge that defines enduring leadership. That said, this moment of applause must also serve as a moment of reflection. A strong first year inevitably raises expectations. Journalists in Rivers State will now look beyond initial achievements toward consolidation. Welfare interventions must become more structured and far-reaching. Training programs must be sustained and expanded. Advocacy must become more consistent and impactful. Most importantly, the unity of the union must be strengthened, ensuring that all members feel included and carried along. Transparency will also be key. Continued open communication about finances, decisions, and challenges will deepen trust and set a standard for accountable union leadership. The task ahead is clear: to convert early momentum into lasting institutional progress.

For the Bazia-led executive, the opportunity is significant. It has, within one year, reawakened belief in what the NUJ Rivers State Council can be. The next step is to ensure that this renewed energy does not fade, but instead becomes the foundation of a stronger, more responsive, and more respected union. For the members, the message is equally clear—expect more, demand more, and support what works because in the end, a vibrant union is not built by leadership alone, but by a collective commitment to progress. And for now, under Bazia, that progress has truly begun.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi