Do You Read?

                         Source: Pinterest

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi

The library was almost empty. While others were busy scrolling through their phones, a young student quietly sat in a corner, flipping through the pages of a book. His friends laughed at him and asked, "Who still reads books in this digital age?" He simply smiled and kept reading. Months later, when the examination results were released, he was among the best in his class. The knowledge, confidence, and ideas he had gained from reading had given him an edge. His story reminds us of a simple truth: every page we read is an investment in our future

The rise of technology has ultimately led to the decline in the reading habit of many people. How many of us take our time to read books nowadays? The decrease in literacy rate is mostly due to lack of reading habit. Most students fail in their academics because they fail to read ahead of examination. A good reading plan lays a strong foundation for academic success.

Beyond academics, reading plays a vital role in expanding one's knowledge. Reading make us come across books that will give us insight or enlighten us on what we don't know. we become more familiar and knowledgeable about things when we read books.

                          Source: Pinterest

Exploring different kinds of books like novels, magazines or biographies can shape one's mindset. Books has the ability to influence one's belief or change people's perspective about an idea. It help people to see things in a different dimension and encourage readers to dream bigger. Reading stimulates imagination which will bring about creativity.

Often times we wish to travel round the world which might be hindered for one reason or the other. Rather than killing that dream, book offers an opportunity to see beyond our environment when you read them. Book contains descriptive words that gives a mental picture of the world and helps to explore different culture, histories and experience without leaving your comfort zone

How To Develop A Good Reading Culture 

Imagine standing before two doors. One leads to endless distractions, while the other opens to knowledge, wisdom, creativity, and opportunity. Every day, we choose which door to enter. Sadly, many have abandoned books for endless hours on social media, not realizing that a single book can change a life, inspire a dream, or provide the solution to a problem. The question is not whether books still matter—the question is, do you read? 

 

A good reading culture does not develop overnight. It requires careful steps and a high level of interest in reading, consistency and dedication. Here are some tips to achieve good reading culture.

1. Have a reading goal. This will help you stay motivated as you will be focused on achieving the goal. Decide on how many books you want to read within a particular period.

2. Create a specific time in each day for reading. Doing this daily will make reading become an habit for you.

3. Choose interesting books that can sustain your attention.

4. Visit libraries and bookstore regularly.

5. Have a reading partner with whom you can share ideas and book recommendations.

6. Limit the time you spend on social media.

7. Read extensively to broaden your knowledge and perspective.

8. Make use of your spare time to read. For instance, you can read while waiting for someone or something.

9. Be consistent in your reading activity.

Reading is necessary for your intellectual growth and personal development as it helps unlock hidden potential or instill knowledge that can be used for future success. Just as the saying "Readers are Leaders" reading makes you stand out among individuals and equip you with the right skill that will make you capable of leading.

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AI is No Threat to Journalism, Expert Says at NAMACOS Press Week

By Nimatallah Aliyu

Prof. Olatunji dismisses fears of job replacement, advocates technology adoption and AI literacy for future journalists

An Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert and President of an AI organisation, Professor Adams Olatunji, has urged journalists and communication professionals to embrace Artificial Intelligence as a tool for improving media practice rather than viewing it as a threat to their profession.

Professor Olatunji made the call while delivering a goodwill message during the fourth-day lecture of the National Association of Mass Communication Students (NAMACOS) Press Week at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), where he served as a special guest.

Addressing students, lecturers and media practitioners, the AI expert dismissed the widespread belief that Artificial Intelligence would replace journalists. 

According to him, AI is designed to enhance productivity and efficiency, stressing that "communicators who embrace AI will replace those who refuse to adapt." He further announced plans to collaborate with the Department of Mass Communication to promote AI literacy and improve students' access to emerging technologies.

Earlier, the representative of the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, Mr. Adegboye Ado, commended the department for organising the lecture and encouraged students to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly in advancing journalism and communication.

During the panel session, Mr. Adeshola Ikulajolu and Dr. Abimbola also encouraged students to see AI as a complementary tool capable of improving journalistic practice without compromising the ethics and principles of the profession.

The event featured the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities in recognition of their contributions to journalism, media development and public service. 

Professor Olatunji received an Award of Excellence, while veteran broadcaster Mr. Dayo Duyile was honoured with the Distinguished Media Icon Award. 

Other recipients included Hon. Ifedoluwa Oyediran, who received the Legislative Leadership Award, alongside several other personalities recognised for their outstanding service to the media profession.

Speaking after the lecture, students described the session as enlightening and impactful. 

A Mass Communication student, Oludele Olalade said: "the lecture broadened my understanding of the four media specialisations and changed my perception of public relations and advertising."

Another student, Busari Faesololajuwola, noted that the programme deepened his appreciation of broadcast journalism, "particularly the importance of timeliness in news reporting," while commending the proposed collaboration between Professor Olatunji's AI foundation and the department.

The lecture formed part of activities marking the Department of Mass Communication's 2026 Press Week, aimed at exposing students to contemporary issues shaping journalism and strategic communication in the digital age.

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Handling the Consequence of Peer Pressure

                                Source: Pexel

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi 

The desire to belong is natural, but losing yourself to fit in can come at a heavy cost. Learning how to resist unhealthy influence is one of the most important life skills every young person should develop

Some elderly ones are often of the opinion that the young ones should have less or no worries undermining the great effect that lies in peer pressure. Many people, during their adolescence and young adulthood, are been influenced directly or indirectly. This can be either on a positive term or negative term.

Young Simi, while growing up, tried to seek confidence and self validation from her friends by emulating their lifestyle which had a negative impact on her. Peer pressure this days has often lead to a bad consequence rather than helping people inculcate good morals.

                            Source: Pexel

Teenagers now force themselves to fit in to trends they see online, from friends and those around them. This has affected the choices they make ranging from the cloth they wear, how they act down to the manner the manner in which they address people. They can also be influenced into negative behaviour or harming people.

What is Peer Pressure?  

Peer pressure is when an individual is influenced by people who are of the same age group or social circle to behave in a certain way. This can occur directly such as people urging someone to do something or indirectly such a person feeling compelled to fit into a lifestyle or trend even if they are not comfortable doing it.  

However, peer pressure is not always negative. people can be influenced or prompted into cultivating good behaviour such as studying, respecting elders, participating in community service and encouraging healthy habit.  

Effects of Peer Pressure 

Peer pressure can lead to many great consequences. Continuous pressure to fit into societal standard can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. It causes many youth to engage in dangerous activities just to fit in. 

Some might lose their original identity in the process of trying to be like others. Some might also prioritize the attempt to fit in neglecting their main focus. Low self-esteem can also come in when they fail to meet up to their peers expectations.   

 

How to Handle Peer Pressure

The following are the effective and practical ways to deal with peer pressure.

1. Know your values. Understand what is wrong or right for you.

2. Learn to say no when you are not comfortable with a particular situation or if it doesn't align with your value

3. Choose friends wisely. Avoid groups that encourage bad behaviour. Ensure your friends share the same value with you.

4. Build self confidence. Believe and trust in your ability. This will make you not to be easily swayed.

5. Develop decision making skills. Learn to think before making decisions. Think if any suggestions or idea will benefit you before making decision.

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AAUA Appoints Olukoju as Sixth Substantive Bursar

By Nimatallah Aliyu

The Governing Council of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), has appointed the institution's Deputy Bursar, Mr. Bamidele Abiodun Olukoju, as the sixth substantive Bursar of the university, following years of service in its financial administration.

The appointment, approved at the Council's meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2026, takes effect for a five-year tenure. Olukoju succeeds Dr. A. Tobi Orina, whose tenure ends on June 30, 2026.

Before his appointment, Olukoju served as Deputy Bursar, where he supervised key units, including Treasury Services, Management Services, Accounting Services, Budget Control and Expenditure, Loans and Advances, payroll supervision, revenue reporting and financial administration. 

He also acted as Bursar on several occasions, reflecting the confidence reposed in him by the university management.

A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Olukoju holds degrees in Accounting and Business Administration and is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration at Adekunle Ajasin University.

Beyond the university, he gained professional experience in banking, auditing, financial analysis and consultancy with organisations including Pinnacle Micro-Finance Bank, J. Walter Udoeyop & Co., Essential HealthCare Ltd., Olivr Pearl Ltd., SAOK Consult, and during his National Youth Service Corps at the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Presidency, Abuja.

Within AAUA, he has served on several committees, contributed to financial reforms, supported the implementation of electronic payment systems, and participated in auditing the university's accounts. 

He has also lectured part-time in the Department of Accounting and co-authored academic publications in accounting and sustainability reporting.

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Managing Stress in Student Life

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi

From academic pressure to financial challenges, learning how to manage stress is essential for every student's success and we'll being

Gaining admission into the university is very vital and it can prove to be the most stressful in the life of every student. A student can experience any form of stress ranging from academic pressure, financial challenge, lifestyle or personal stress to parent or societal expectation. Therefore it is paramount that as a student, you manage your stress level well.

Stress is the natural reaction your body has to an overwhelming situation or a greater demand beyond what you can handle. One of the types of stress student can face is academic stress which include the pressure of exam, meeting deadline or fear of poor performance some of which might be caused by time mismanagement and procrastination. Due to high cost of living expenses, some student might face financial issues.

To properly and effectively manage stress level as a student, you need to give a time for yourself which will allow you do things that you are passionate about. You do not necessarily have to revolve your life around school activities only. Build a balance and healthy lifestyle by giving yourself time to relax. Also while studying, it is essential to take a little break in order to rest your brains, energize yourself and you will be more focused on your study.

As a student, you must practice time management. To do this, you must create a to-do list of what you need to do during a specific period and allocate time for each task. The list must be simple and achievable for you to do. In addition to this, cut down on any unnecessary extracurricular activities that may affect your to-do list. Prioritize your academic goal and do not be reluctant to seek support from family or friends in order not to be overwhelmed by burden.

In conclusion, stress is unavoidable but learning to manage it is key. A proper planning and adequate care of yourself helps you achieve a balance in your life and reduce stress. Know your self well and do not compare yourself with others. What will work for others might not work for you.

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Location of PVC Centre for Akungba

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi

To be eligible to vote in Nigeria, two key requirements must be met: age and possession of your own Permanent Voter's Card (PVC) issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

While being 18 years or older qualifies you to vote, having a Permanent Voter's Card is essential to participate in elections and fulfill your civic duty as a Nigeria citizen. 

To locate INEC’s office in Akungba for registration, data updates, polling unit transfers, or to report issues, visit the address: “Opposite Patrick Secondary School, Iwaro Oka Akoko.” 

The registration period begins on May 11, 2026, and will close on Friday, July 10, 2026. Registration hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Make sure to arrive early with a valid means of identification. Don't wait until the last minute, as queues may become overwhelming. 

All Nigerians who wish to participate in elections must take the important step of obtaining their PVC.

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Governor Aiyedatiwa Approves Obamuyi as New AAUA VC

By: Tofunmi Oyekanmi

A new leadership milestone had begun as the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa approved the appointment of Professor Tomola Marshal Obamuyi as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA).

According to the statement released on Friday by the Ondo State Government, the governing council, under the leadership of Dr Tunji Abayomi, recommended Prof. Obamuyi for appointment after a rigorous screening and interview exercise, which was conducted by the Joint Council and Senate Selection Board. This recommendation was finally approved by Governor Aiyedatiwa. 

Governor Aiyedatiwa, in his congratulatory message, has expressed his confidence and described the newly appointed vice chancellor as someone who is capable of building on the university's achievement and advancing academic excellence, innovation and institutional development. 

Prof. Obamuyi, an accomplished scholar of Banking and Finance, has served several leadership position including the Head of Department of Banking And Finance at Adekunle Ajasin university and the Dean of the School of Management Technology at Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).

He was also awarded as the best professor of banking and Finance in Africa at Africa Education Leadership award. The appointment takes effect after the completion of the tenure of the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Olugbenga Ige

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AAUA Cowrywise Hosts Finance IQ

By: Ayotomiwa Mayomi

The Adekunle Ajasin Universy Cowrywise Ambassadors organized a Finance IQ: Debate and Quiz on the 25th June, 2026, at the Old Relaxation Center (RC), opposite OBJ hall, by 11am. 

The event which was organized by the AAUA Cowrywise Ambassadors partnered with the AAUA Literary Debates and Society featured both quiz and debate competition subsequently. 

According to the Cowrywise campuslead, Olorundare Princess, She described the event as an intellectual space to promote financial literacy. She therefore encouraged student build their financial potential.

In addition, she encouraged students to embrace new skills in order to improve their financial potential. “Learn new skill. It can be remote, digital or physical skill. Just make sure you add to your earning potential,” Princess said.

                                 flyer

Princess also uses the avenue to announce the upcoming literacy conference on the 17th, of July, which will be a platform for growth and networking.

More so, a 300-level from Science Education department, Jegede Goodness, depicted the event space for network and beyond expectations. She states “ foremost, it’s beyond my expectations, I met new people and I was presented a double honour award.” 

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NAMACOS Equips Students for Life After Graduation

By Ayomide Oguntade

The National Association of Mass Communication Students (NAMACOS), AAUA Chapter, organised a one-day workshop for students at the Olusegun Obasanjo Hall on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

The programme was designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate life after graduation and position themselves for gainful employment.

Following the opening remarks by the NAMACOS President, Hammed Muhammed (p.k.a Anonymous), a leadership session was delivered by Public Relations expert and consultant, Oluwalade Oluwaseyi and during the session, he highlighted how Mass Communication students can strategically build their careers while still on campus.

Also speaking at the workshop, an alumnus of the Department of Mass Communication, and a multimedia journalist and BBC correspondent, Adesola Ikulajolu, addressed students on "life after school."

He revealed that there is "no pity" for graduates in the job market and stressed the importance of having tangible skills and achievements to showcase.

He further stated that graduates should not be afraid of outcomes, urging them to "risk it" or "jade tan" (meaning that a graduate should come out fully without fear).

During the panel session, students raised concerns about staying motivated amid unemployment and family pressure after graduation.

Responding to the concerns, lecturers from the Department of Mass Communication advised students not to allow pressure to diminish their hopes. 

They also encouraged them to learn from their mistakes and begin building their careers early.

When asked about one mistake graduates should avoid, a lecturer in the department, Dr Ishola Lamidi, said: "Don't despise your humble beginning."

Furthermore, while responding to questions about pressure from parents and family members when jobs are not forthcoming despite multiple applications, the former Head of Department (HOD), Dr Raphael Abimbola, noted: "Don't be idle, find something doing even when payable job isn't available."

Addressing whether the knowledge gained in the classroom is sufficient for employment or if students should acquire additional skills, another lecturer, Mrs Ayodele Ajayi, advised: "Start early; a little beginning is very important."

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Professor Akingbesote Unveils Future of Digital Trade

By Kuwam Babarinde

A professor of Artificial Intelligence and e-market service, Professor Alaba Akingbesote has advocated traditional market to bidirectional AI - cloud e-market place.

Professor Olatunji, who is a professor emeritus of the faculty of computing, made the call while addressing Adekunle Ajasin University 66th inaugural lecture, titled, “ From Traditional Markets To Bidirectional AI - Cloud E-Marketplaces: Emergence, Challenges, and Expectations,” on 16 June 2026.

He stated how his journey began as a computer graduate assistant, who was employed in the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti in 1995, and now, a professor of Artificial Intelligence and e-marketing service. 

In his speech he described this 66th inauguration ceremony in the university as the second of its kind in the faculty of computing. While the first lecture was delivered by Prof. S.O. Olatunji, who served as the first Professor of Artificial Intelligence in AAUA. 

He further stated that Prof Olatunji served as an inspiration to him as he stands before the audience today, as the first Professor of Artificial Intelligence and E-Market service in AAUA, and delivering the second inaugural lecture in the Faculty of Computing. Consequently, this is the first in the Department of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in AAUA.

According to him, this lecture focuses on examining the various marketing strategies that have evolved and some of the challenges of each marketplace. He therefore stated that this gives him the opportunity to present to the audience his contributions to the body of knowledge in addressing some of these challenges.

He believed that this lecture also looks beyond 2027 by forecasting or predicting some of the expectations that service consumers are awaiting in the bi-directional AI-Cloud e-marketplaces. He appeals to the audience to pardon him because there is the risk that some of the technical terms that he must inevitably use may still be tricky for the lay-man to understand.

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AAUA set for 2026 Students' Union games

Babarinde Kuwam 

‎The much-anticipated Adekunle Ajasin University Students' Union (AAUASU) Games is set to kick off from June 27 to July 4, 2026, marking the long-awaited return of sporting activities at the AAUA Sports Complex.

This comes after a prolonged break, as the Sports Director of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akanbi Oluwamayowa, popularly known on campus as "Mayor'bles," announced plans to revive the AAUASU Games.

According to a statement released by Oluwamayowa, the tournament is organized to promote sportsmanship, unity, physical fitness, and healthy competition among students.

Mayor'bles further stated that all faculties are eligible to participate in the tournament. He urged faculties to begin preparations immediately and complete the necessary registration within the stipulated period.

In the statement, the Sports Director also outlined the various events scheduled for the tournament, including football, basketball, volleyball, hockey, indoor games, and lawn tennis. He specified the number of players and coaches required from each faculty for the different competitions.

The 400lv Sociology student added that all additional information regarding the tournament would be communicated in due course.

On a final note, he encouraged all students to participate actively in the competition and support their respective faculties to ensure a successful and memorable sporting event.

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The Men We Forget to Celebrate

By: Ayotomiwa Mayomi 

“Globally, men are less likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety than women. But they are far more likely to die by suicide and to struggle with substance misuse. This isn't because men suffer less — it's because they seek help less, and stigma silences them." 

Based on World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Estimates

June is specially designed to celebrate men’s mental health, referencing men’s resilient and courageous steps to live daily. Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It has intrinsic and instrumental value and is integral to our well-being and men are recognized to experience them. 

At any one time, a diverse set of individual, family, community and structural factors may combine to protect or undermine mental health. Although most Men are resilient, Men who are exposed to adverse circumstances including poverty, violence, disability and inequality are at higher risk of developing a mental health condition.

Many mental health conditions can be effectively treated at relatively low cost, yet health systems remain significantly under-resourced and treatment gaps are wide all over the world. Mental health care is often poor in quality when delivered. Men with mental health conditions often also experience stigma, discrimination and human rights violations.

Men must be praised for their resilient struggles of life

On December 2025, The Lagoon Palms Aviary Club of Nigeria hosted an insightful symposium focused on men’s mental health awareness. The symposium, aptly themed “Breaking Barriers: Men’s Mental Health and Awareness,” was spearheaded by the club’s president, Adegoke Caleb.

In his address to journalists, Caleb emphasized the urgency of conversations around men’s mental health, highlighting that societal norms often sideline these discussions in favor of women’s health issues. “It’s important that we talk about men’s mental state of health,” he stated, pointing out that men face a myriad of challenges that can lead to emotional turmoil, stress, and even depression.

In a Facebook post from the Nigeria Ministry of Health to Men “June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This year’s theme, Partners in Care, reminds us that supporting men’s mental wellbeing starts with listening, checking in, and staying connected. 

Every conversation matters. Every person matters.

#MensMentalHealthMonth.”

Egemba Chinonso Fidelis popularly known as Aproko Doctor, who is a Nigerian doctor, health influencer publicly eulogies men

“525,000 a year, 10,000 a week, 1,400 a day. These are the number of men that die by suicide. 

Happy Men’s Mental Health Month

To Everyman reading this: your are not a burden and you do not have to carry the weight of the alone. Speaking up is real strength”

Too often, public health messages direct men towards overstretched or culturally incongruent clinical services. When men do engage particularly around suicidality they might be met with risk-averse, depersonalising responses.

This misalignment creates a paradox: the more visibly distressed a man becomes, the more likely he is to encounter exclusion from available services. Awareness without system readiness risks eroding trust and engagement. What is needed is evidence-informed awareness embedded in systems that are resourced and prepared to respond effectively.

Therefore, Men should be celebrated, encouraged and supported. Dr. Sunday Amosu (Consultant Psychiatrist, Director of Research & Training, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Nigeria) asserts 

"Our culture teaches that men must not cry, must not show emotions, and must always be in control. However, studies have shown that this is doing a lot of harm. When we bottle emotions, it is like a keg of gunpowder waiting to explode.

"Positive masculinity promotes empathy, respect, and partnership. It tells us that men can cry and still be strong. Crying is not a sign of weakness. It helps to regulate mood, relieve stress, and promote healing." 

 

Happy Men’s mental health month.

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AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: THE PROMISES WE RECITE

 

Letter To The President

His Excellency,
Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Aso Rock Villa
Abuja, Nigeria

Dear Mr. President,

AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU: THE PROMISES WE RECITE

I trust this letter finds you well. I write to you today out of concern for the state of our nation and the growing realities faced by millions of Nigerians.

The International Press Centre compiled your campaign promises, and after going through them, they seem feasible and would have brought benefits to Nigerians during your tenure. However, as it is running to an end, Nigerians are still in agony. 

Banditry and kidnapping have become our new normal, unemployment still flies in the air, starvation and malnutrition is rampant, the gap between the rich and poor widens every day, and Nigeria has now become a field of hunger games where we strive to survive in an unsecured state; no wonder we are termed “a state of serious concern.”

In May 2024, we returned to using our former national anthem, "Nigeria we hail thee". You didn't ask for the opinions of the citizens and the motive behind changing the national anthem is still not clear, it will be assumed that it was of good intentions because, the lyrics align with some of your 2022/2023 campaign promises. 

The first stanza of the national anthem summarises who we are as a nation with so many ethnic groups but do we still stand in brotherhood when there are ethnic clashes almost all over the states? Youths are deferring the NYSC call because they are scared of being posted to states with security concerns and the anthem says "Nigerians all, are proud to serve, our sovereign motherland". 

Stanza two says "our flag shall be a symbol that truth and justice reign" in a country where government officials forge certificates to get into position, laundering of public funds is the order of the day and the poor can't get real justice because, they can't afford it. 

"In peace or battle honoured, and this we count as gain", Are we counting the deaths of innocent ones as a gain? We sing not to pass on to our children a banner without stain but which banner are we talking about? Is it the green, white, green already coloured with the blood of citizens, or a banner that has crime and insurgency written all over it? Some children can't boast of an interesting childhood while some memories are filled with trauma and you think they still want to hold on to this banner that has failed them?

A country that is supposed to be “God's beloved” still suffers from oppression that devastates the country, the direct opposite of "help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed". Citizens are oppressed by the dilapidated economy, banditry and some government rules that do not favour the poor in their pockets. 

"And so with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed". Is it safe to say we are cursed? Because, there's definitely no peace in this country and lack lurks in every corner of the country. Food prices surge, humans go missing amidst terrorist attacks almost every month, and citizens are left in tears and fear.

The children kidnapped in Oyo state are still being held captive and the deaths of insurgency victims are still fresh in the hearts of family members. Some persons have gone missing, farmers can't go to farm anymore and serious deliberations are made before embarking on any journey especially when travelling by road.

How about the promise you made at a campaign rally held at Osogbo in February 2023 of "strengthening the bedrock of our national security and upgrading our weapon systems, exploiting aerial technological superiority, and to further identify, monitor, and subdue the criminals, terrorists, and bandits who would do harm to ordinary citizens"

Beyond this, is your promise of giving priority to confronting security, making the economy one of widely shared prosperity, and paying special attention to agriculture made at a rally organised by the Arewa community at the Mobolaji Johnson stadium, Onikan, Lagos in January 2023.

As this tenure is ending with plans of you going for another term, are Nigerians still eligible to keep their trust in you if re-elected or will the next four years be a continuation of this torture?

Yes, uneasy lies the head that wears the crown but please, make it easy for the ones who wore you the crown.

Yours faithfully,

Ayomide Oguntade

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Self-Esteem: Building Who You Want to Be

     Photo Credit: Wind of Change

Oyekanmi Tofunmi 

I often find myself speaking less because I fear saying the wrong thing or being criticized. I'm anxious about voicing my opinions because I worry that I might sound foolish or immature. However, I realized that how people value you is largely determined by how you respect and carry yourself; you will be perceived based on how you present yourself.

Where you fall on the self-esteem scale primarily stems from how you feel about yourself and the identity you have formed from your experiences with people in school, your circle of friends, your workplace, and more.

Dr. Morris Rosenberg, a professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland from 1975 until his death in 1992, defines self-esteem as “a favorable or unfavorable attitude toward the self.” This means self-esteem is fundamentally about how we evaluate ourselves as human beings. It’s less about talent or achievement and more about self-worth.

Several questions can help reveal your level of self-esteem, whether it is high or low. These questions include:

1. How do you speak to yourself when nobody is listening?

2. How do you treat yourself after making mistakes?

3. Do you believe your needs matter?

4. Can you respect yourself even when others don’t?

Having high self-esteem is where everyone wants to be and sometimes it might seem far but it is attainable. Self-discovery and intentional effort are essential to start building self-esteem. If you struggle with this, the following insights may be helpful.

The lifestyles you observe from friends, social media, or those around you can sometimes challenge your beliefs about your worth. Constant criticism, comparison, bullying, negative childhood experiences, and family expectations are major contributors to low self-esteem, making people feel inadequate and worthless. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge both past and current experiences. Take the time to self-reflect in a notebook. Intentionally debunk the lies and fears you hold. Read books that reinforce the idea that a person’s value is rooted in their belief about themselves.

How to Build Self-Esteem

Building high self-esteem requires practical steps to overcome negative feelings:

1. Start by speaking positively to yourself daily.

2. Remember that making mistakes is not bad; you don’t have to beat yourself up for them. Failure is just a first attempt at something. 

3. Counter any negative self-talk by identifying evidence in your life that disproves these thoughts.

4. Appreciate every good thing about yourself. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes, focus on improvement.

5. Always remember that everyone is created and trained differently. Do not compare yourself to others; everyone behaves differently, and you cannot be like anyone else.

6. Always celebrate your little wins, don't wait for the big wins to tell you how awesome you are.

Remember that everyone has a unique ability that makes them different. Recognizing your own uniqueness will help improve your self-esteem. No one can define who you are better than you can. I

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ESAN Claims Uneasy Victory as Rain Disrupts Final

By: Babarinde Kuwam

What was expected to be a thrilling conclusion to the 2026 AAUA Freshers' Cup turned into a difficult contest as heavy rainfall disrupted the final match between the Faculty of Education (ESAN) and the Faculty of Management Sciences (FAMASA).

The highly anticipated encounter, held on Friday, May 5, 2026, attracted a large crowd of supporters who were eager to watch two of the tournament's strongest teams battle for the title as both sides had impressed throughout the competition, reaching the final without conceding a goal.

However, shortly before kickoff, dark clouds gathered and heavy rainfall began, transforming the playing surface into a muddy and slippery pitch. The poor weather conditions made it difficult for players to perform at their best and significantly affected the quality of the game.

As the rain persisted, some supporters called for the match to be postponed, arguing that the players were struggling to maintain the tempo of play. Despite the appeals, the AAUASU Sports Director rejected the request, insisting that the match must proceed as scheduled.

The difficult playing conditions slowed the pace of the game and limited the attacking threat of both teams. Players repeatedly struggled to maintain balance on the slippery surface, while spectators watched in frustration as the final failed to deliver the level of excitement they had anticipated.

Despite the challenges, both teams showed determination throughout the encounter. At the end of regulation time, the score remained level at 1–1, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

The shootout proved to be a tense affair, with both sides displaying composure from the spot. In the end, ESAN emerged victorious, defeating FAMASA 6–5 on penalties to claim the 2026 AAUA Freshers' Cup title.

Although ESAN celebrated a hard-fought triumph, the final will be remembered as much for the disruptive impact of the weather as for the result itself. What promised to be a showcase of football excellence became a contest shaped by rain, leaving many supporters wondering what might have been under better conditions.

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