Remote jobs Nigerians are winning at – and how to get one
I’m head of the Nigerian delegation – Tinubu jokes with Obi at Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration
In a rare public interaction, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Ekiti State governor Kayode Fayemi met in Rome on Sunday for Pope Leo XIV’s installation mass.
“Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
“I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.”
“Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
“In this our time, we still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest,” the Pope said.
[A MUST SEE] Checkout Five Ways To Identify Substandard Palm Oil
Palm oil, scientifically known as Elaeis guineensis Jacq is a common edible oil in many Nigerian households.
The oil derived from the mesocarp of the oil palm fruit is a key ingredient in numerous Nigerian cuisines, ranging from stews to soups to frying.
It is also a major ingredient for pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries to produce drugs and skincare products.
Nigeria is the fifth largest producer of palm oil in the world with 1.4 million metric tons, reflecting the huge production gap.
To increase the quantity and make surplus gains, experts warn that traders now add water and artificial colouring agents such as red oxide — used for painting gates, to litres of palm oil, which can increase cancer risk as well as cause liver problems.
Alphonsus Inyang, president of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria has warned against this criminal practice and encouraged the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to work together with the association towards curbing this act.
“We need the FCCPC to work with us because we need the protection that they offer. We also need to work with the police so that we can go around with them to identify where these things happen,” he said.
“These things don’t happen in the mills. They happen in places where they sort and grade palm oil,” he added.
BusinessDay looks at top five ways Nigerians can identify fake palm oil which has become rampant across markets in the country and poses several health risks.
Deep reddish colour
According to experts, the fake palm oil has a deeper red colour than the original palm oil.
This is because certain colouring additives like red oxide, Azo dyes particularly Sudan III and IV, are used to enhance their colour.
Nigerians can therefore look out for palm oil with deep shades of red colour when next they go to shop in markets.
“Red oxide is mixed with original palm oils so they become more red. This is one of the simplest ways to identify the fake oil. Their colour is a deeper red than original palm oil,” Alphonsus told BusinessDay in a telephone interview.
Unpleasant taste
It is customary for adulterated palm oil to leave a bad after-mouth taste. The presence of colouring additives gives off an unpleasant taste even after cooking.
Experts say they leave a foul taste in the mouth even when and after eating, the taste still lingers.
For several Nigerians, the original taste of palm oil is like that of ‘Banga’.
“When you are eating it, the taste of the palm oil is still there. In a normal house, everybody knows the right taste of palm oil,” the palm oil president said.
Foul odour
Like the taste, fake palm oil gives off a foul odour when cooking. Experts refer to this odour as ‘chalky’.
When used to cook, they produce a pungent smell that takes a while to disperse.
Smokes too quickly
The fake palm oil smokes very quickly when used to cook or fry. They begin to produce much smoke within seconds of being on the gas or stove, experts say.
“It smokes too quickly. If you put a little in the pot, like say you want to fry or you want to add onions, once you put it in the pot, the whole kitchen becomes smokey. This is fake palm oil,” said Alphonsus.
Bleaches very fast
Adulterated palm oil turns into what might appear like vegetable oil within seconds of being on low heat. The chemical additives make it bleach faster than it is supposed to.
SOURCE: Businessdayng
Ex-US President Biden diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer
Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasised to his bones, according to a statement released by his personal office on Sunday, May 18.
Expert reacts to Biden’s illness
![Former US President Joe Biden. [Getty Images]](https://image.api.sportal365.com/process//smp-images-production/pulse.ng/19052025/47fd3c01-23c7-49f0-89ff-8563bd5b360c.jpg?operations=fit(1042:))
Fly as Leitmotif in “Wake the Flies” Documentary
The chosen title Wake the flies, can be a powerful and evocative title for a documentary however it can also be confusing to place it on the narrative of such a sensitive and complex issue as the conflicts and killings on the Jos Plateau that can be traced since September 2001
Let’s delve into why the fly leitmotif could be a compelling choice and explore its aesthetic implications before the official screening of 24 May, 2025 in Frankfurt- Germany . Let it be clear that the documentary was inspired by real fly on a lonely dead body- a victim of one of the many killing situations that the writer of the documentary saw, but let’s us advance a little for I shall tell the full story someday.
First, let’s define leitmotif in film. It’s a recurring musical theme, visual element, or even a narrative idea associated with a particular character, setting, situation, or emotion. It acts as a subtle through-line, reinforcing themes and creating connections across different parts of the film.
Now, considering the title “Wake the Flies” and the documentary’s focus on killings in Jos plateau and the contradictions between the narrative of the migrant settlers or indigenous populations, and the Christian-Muslim conflict in Jos, the fly leitmotif was employed for several artistic and aesthetic exploration potent that includes:
Symbolism of Death and Decay: Flies are often associated with death, decay, and the aftermath of violence. Their presence can visually and metaphorically represent the loss of life and the lingering impact of the killings on the land and its people. The buzzing sound of flies can also create an unsettling and disturbing atmosphere, subtly reminding the audience of the underlying tragedy. ” It is a marker in the film as it’s starts with, the sound of the files ”
Ubiquity and Persistence: Flies are everywhere and can be incredibly persistent. This could symbolize the pervasive nature of the conflict, its cyclical recurrence, and how it continues to “buzz” in the background of daily life in Jos, even when overt violence subsides. It suggests that the underlying tensions and unresolved issues remain, like flies that are difficult to swat away.
Fragility of Life: In contrast to their association with death, flies can also be seen as fragile creatures, easily swatted and extinguished. This could serve as a subtle commentary on the preciousness and vulnerability of human life, particularly in the face of such brutal conflict.
Witness and Observation: Flies can be seen as silent witnesses, present at scenes of both life and death. The documentary also referenced the fly imagery to suggest an objective, almost detached observation of the events, highlighting the stories of those affected without taking an overtly biased stance.
Contradictions and Irritation: The irritating nature of flies could subtly mirror the frustrations and tensions inherent in the complex contradictions between different groups in Jos. Just as flies can be a persistent annoyance, the unresolved issues and historical grievances can continue to irritate and fuel conflict.
To this end, the Aesthetics of such Representation created Atmosphere and Mood-Recurring fly imagery or sounds can create a consistent atmosphere of unease, tension, or even mourning throughout the film. We believe
It can subtly influence the viewer’s emotional response to the narratives being presented.
Secondly, the idea of Subtlety and Nuance can be an aesthetic experience. Instead of explicitly stating the themes of death, persistence, or fragility, the fly motif can convey these ideas in a more subtle and nuanced way, allowing viewers to make their own connections and interpretations.
Again, the visual representation of flies – close-ups, swarms, their presence in specific environments – add a layer of visual symbolism to the storytelling, enriching the documentary’s visual language.
Lastly, the fly plays the role of the unifying element: The recurring motif can act as a unifying element, connecting different stories and perspectives within the documentary under a shared symbolic umbrella it reminds us of how the story is not local to Plateau state alone or Nigeria, or even Gaza, or Ukraine but a tale with a global Outlook.
The choice of a fly leitmotif in “Wake the Flies” likely add a layer of poetic and symbolic depth to the exploration of the Jos Plateau conflicts. It suggests a desire to move beyond a purely factual account and delve into the more visceral and lingering impacts of the violence and the complexities of the human experience within this context. The film’s aesthetic, therefore, could be characterized by a blend of stark realism in depicting the events in a more metaphorical, sensory approach through the recurring presence of the fly.
MEGA SYMPOSIUM ANNOUNCEMENT: PYC Pankshin LG invites you to a pivotal symposium (Read More)
MEGA SYMPOSIUM ANNOUNCEMENT
The Plateau Youth Council, Pankshin Local Government, invites you to a pivotal symposium:
Theme: Mentorship: A Panacea for Community Development and National Building/Book a Child Initiative
Keynote Speakers:
1. Prof. Christopher Goson Piwuna
Dean of Students Affairs, University of Jos & ASUU National President
2. Leman Cornelius Emmanuel
Executive Director, Educating the Rural Child Foundation
Convenor: Dennis Dauda
PYC Deputy Chairman, Pankshin LGA
Date: Thursday, 16th May 2025
Time: 10:00 AM prompt
Venue: Pankshin Youth Center
Join us for insightful discussions, mentorship, and community development strategies. Let’s shape the future together!
Target Audience: Students, Educators, Community Leaders, and Stakeholders in Education
Objective: To empower secondary school students and promote community development through mentorship and education.
Court Adjourns Suit Against President Tinubu’s Suspension of Rivers Officials to May 26 2025
The Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has adjourned the constitutional suit challenging the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Professor Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.
The court on Monday adjourned the suit to May 26, 2025 after a hearing.
The suit was filed by former federal lawmaker and 2023 Rivers State governorship aspirant, Dr. Farah Dagogo, who argues that President Tinubu’s actions are unconstitutional.
The case challenges the President’s suspension of the state’s democratically elected officials and his appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the state’s Administrator after declaring a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, 2025. The President cited security concerns as the reason for the declaration.
Dr. Dagogo filed Suit No: FHC/PH/CS/50/2025 on April 9, 2025, contending that the President’s actions lacked constitutional backing and were ultra vires.
During the hearing, Cosmas Enweluzo, SAN, counsel to the plaintiff, informed the court that all defendants had been duly served and were ready to proceed. The defendants named in the suit include President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the Administrator of Rivers State.
Of all the defendants, only Vice Admiral Ibas appeared through his counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, who requested additional time to respond to the originating summons. After hearing from both parties, Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed granted the request but warned that the matter would proceed on the next adjourned date, regardless of further delays.
Speaking after the court session, Enweluzo emphasized that the case is about the President’s violation of the Constitution. He stated, “The President cannot act as a ‘Tin god’. He does not have the constitutional authority to suspend elected representatives or govern over four million Rivers people and those doing business in Rivers State by fiat. It is a constitutional aberration and must not be allowed.”
Enweluzo also questioned the justification for declaring a state of emergency, stating, “The insecurity narrative is unfounded. In states like Benue, Plateau, and Borno, where serious security challenges persist, no state of emergency was declared. Rivers State has remained relatively peaceful.”
He commended Dr. Dagogo for challenging what he described as unconstitutional actions, asserting that citizens have the right to be governed by their elected officials.
Regarding the adjournment, Enweluzo explained that counsel for the fifth defendant (Vice Admiral Ibas) requested additional time to complete filings in response to the originating summons. “Since it was their first request, we agreed,” he said. The court then adjourned the case to May 26, 2025, with the reminder that if delays continue, the court may proceed with the case.
Enweluzo also noted that while all other defendants had been duly served, none had filed a memorandum of appearance or any legal response to the suit.
Governor Mutfwang Reaffirms Commitment To Prudent Resource Management For Development — Attends CITN National Conference
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to prudent and transparent management of public resources as a strategy to stimulate sustainable development across the state.
The Governor made this known while delivering a goodwill message at the 27th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), held at the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Taxation for Development: Policies, Laws, and Implementation,” Governor Mutfwang described the event as a timely and strategic platform to interrogate ongoing tax reforms and chart a realistic roadmap for accelerated national growth and development.
He noted that since assuming office, his administration has prioritized the judicious use of public funds to address critical needs, improve the living conditions of citizens, and create a conducive environment to attract investments and development incentives.
“I commend CITN for organizing this important conference to reflect on how taxation policies and collection mechanisms can be more effective in fostering national development. This is crucial, as taxation remains a key driver for funding government programmes,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
He emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the implementation of tax reforms to ensure they yield the intended outcomes for all Nigerians.
“To test the validity and credibility of the current tax reforms, those charged with their implementation must embrace transparency and inclusiveness. This is the only way to achieve equitable dividends of development,” he said.
The Governor also expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure efficient tax administration across all levels.
“At the sub-national level, we are committed to prudent resource management. On the Plateau, we believe that you cannot tax poverty, you can only tax wealth. That’s why we are focusing first on stimulating economic activity and wealth creation before expanding the tax base,” he emphasized.
Governor Mutfwang revealed that Plateau State’s internally generated revenue has seen a remarkable increase from N800 million to N3 billion monthly since the inception of his administration, attributing this progress to strategic reforms and investment in the economy.
Reiterating Plateau’s hospitality, he extended an open invitation to the CITN leadership to consider hosting future editions of the conference in the state, known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
In his remarks, the President and Chairman in Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, welcomed delegates to the conference and urged members to contribute meaningfully to the robust discussions aimed at propelling Nigeria’s economic advancement.
The Plateau contingent was led to the conference by the Executive Chairman, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), Dr. Jim Pam Wayas.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
May 14, 2023.
Dr. Chris Piwuna Elected ASUU President
Professor Chris Piwuna of the University of Jos has emerged as the new President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The announcement followed the union’s 23rd National Delegates Congress, which recently concluded at the University of Benin in Benin City, Edo State. This significant development sees Professor Piwuna taking the helm of the radical academic body in Nigeria.
The keenly contested election saw Professor Piwuna secure victory, defeating his opponent, Professor Adamu Babayo from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi. The National Delegates congress,(NDC) an arm of the union, brought together delegates from various universities across the country to deliberate on key issues affecting tertiary education in Nigeria and to elect new leadership.
Professor Piwuna’s assumption of the ASUU presidency comes at a critical time for Nigerian universities, with ongoing discussions surrounding funding, Earned Academic Allowances of University academic staff, mass labour migration from the Universities ( brain drain), issues of autonomy, and improved welfare for academic staff. His leadership is anticipated to guide the union’s engagements with the government and other stakeholders in addressing these pertinent challenges.
The New Front Desk: AI, Chatbots, and the Automation of Hustle
At exactly 2:47 AM, a customer sent a message to SkinSutra*, a skincare brand based in Jos, asking whether their turmeric face serum was suitable for sensitive skin. Seconds later, a friendly message pinged back: “Hi there! Our turmeric serum is made with gentle ingredients and has been tested for sensitive skin types. Would you like to place an order?”
But the founder, Tina Ayuba*, was asleep.
“I woke up, checked my dashboard, and realized the chatbot closed three sales overnight,” she laughs. “I was literally making money in my dreams.”
Automated Hustle, Human Results
What used to be the domain of large corporations—automated customer care, 24/7 support, instant responses—is now available to Nigeria’s emerging entrepreneurs. From freelance designers to food delivery services, AI-powered automation is becoming the new front desk.
According to Kingsley Onyeagusi, digital strategist, “Conversational AI is no longer futuristic—it’s functional. It’s the receptionist, assistant, and customer service rep you didn’t know you needed.”
The Tools Leveling the Field
A new breed of low-code and no-code AI tools is enabling this shift. Some of the most widely used include:
ChatGPT – to auto-generate email templates, proposals, and product descriptions
ManyChat – for WhatsApp and Instagram chat automation
Tidio and Zendesk – for live chat and helpdesk services
Calendly with AI – for appointment scheduling and smart reminders
Notion AI – to organize workflows, brainstorm, and manage tasks
Zapier – for automating repetitive digital tasks across platforms
These tools allow businesses to cut human workload by over 40%, according to a 2023 Deloitte Africa report.
Human Hustle Meets Machine Muscle
For small business owners like Joseph Aliyu, who runs a Lagos-based courier startup with just three full-time staff, AI tools are the backbone of daily operations.
“We have a WhatsApp bot that helps clients track packages. We don’t even need to hire a call center team anymore,” he explains. “I use ChatGPT to write client updates and Notion AI to summarize our weekly tasks.”
This blend of automation and entrepreneurship is changing the language of the hustle.
Beyond Convenience: A Tool for Inclusion
Automation is not just about convenience—it’s a lifeline for people working with limited capital or physical constraints.
Take Olamide Bakare, a hearing-impaired baker in Ibadan. She uses an AI-driven chatbot on Instagram and her website to communicate with customers, confirm orders, and schedule deliveries.
“Before automation, I needed someone to help me handle calls and customer support. Now, I can run the business independently,” she says through a translator.
Challenges & Cautions
Still, automation has its limits. Some customers prefer a human touch, especially when complaints or emotional nuance is involved. There’s also the risk of over-relying on AI and losing the unique voice of the brand.
Experts recommend blended automation—using AI for repetitive queries while reserving high-touch issues for real humans.
And then there’s cost. While basic plans are free or affordable, premium features can get expensive, especially for solo entrepreneurs.
The Future of Hustle is Augmented
What’s clear is that automation is no longer a tech buzzword—it’s the secret ingredient in the toolkit of modern entrepreneurs.
As Kingsley Onyeagusi aptly puts it, “A young designer in Zaria can now offer the same booking experience as a design studio in Cape Town—thanks to AI. That’s not just evolution. That’s revolution.”
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