Author: The North Journals

In a world where many aspire to leave Africa for perceived greener pastures abroad, Bertin Tchoffo chose a different path. He left the bustling streets of Europe and returned to the fertile lands of Cameroon, transforming personal adversity into a thriving enterprise centered around cassava cultivation and processing. A Journey Marked by Resilience Born in Cameroon, Tchoffo’s early life was imbued with the rich cultural and agricultural heritage of his homeland. However, like many of his compatriots, he sought opportunities beyond the continent’s borders, leading him to France. The reality of life in Europe, however, was far from the dream…

By Hamzat Lawal Mallam Nuhu Ribadu became a household name in Nigeria during the administration of former president Olusegun Obasanjo. He was a prominent face in the small team of reformers put together by Obasanjo to set Nigeria on the path of democratic progress and economic prosperity in the dawning years of this Fourth Republic. I guess I was too young to care about politics and politicians at that time, so I do not have any memory or personal impression of the man Ribadu during that period. The first time Ribadu had a direct impact on my life and future…

In the heart of Africa, where communities live in rhythm with the land, ancient wisdom is emerging as a powerful force in the fight against climate change. Indigenous practices — honed over centuries — are proving invaluable for sustainable resource management and ecosystem resilience. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns grow increasingly erratic, these time-tested strategies are showing the world what true adaptation looks like. “Indigenous knowledge systems, deeply rooted in the cultural and ecological contexts of African communities, offer practical and invaluable resources for climate adaptation strategies,” writes Trésor Daniel MEFIRE in his research, Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for…

By Sani Mohammed In a remarkable display of compassion and dedication to his people, Hon. Ismaila Haruna Dabo, the member representing Toro Federal Constituency, has launched the distribution of Ramadan packages worth over N200 million, set to benefit more than 10,000 constituents. This initiative comes as a lifeline to many facing economic hardship during the holy month of Ramadan. The flag-off ceremony, attended by local government party leaders led by Barr. Bala Y. Umar, highlighted Hon. Dabo’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of his community. The Ramadan packages, filled with essential items, aim to ease the financial burden on families,…

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigeria’s 36 state Governors to ramp up their efforts in implementing Human Capital Development (HCD) programs, emphasizing that the nation’s future hinges on a skilled workforce, quality education, and the overall well-being of its communities. Speaking at the HCD Steering Committee meeting, Shettima highlighted the critical need for swift, targeted action, asserting that state-level implementation must be treated as a top priority. He underscored the importance of regularly tracking key HCD indicators, advocating for consistent council meetings to ensure human capital remains at the heart of governance. “Our collective prosperity as a nation is…

In a groundbreaking move set to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), leading FinTech giant Flutterwave, and tech innovator Alami Technologies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive innovation, enhance digital literacy, and boost infrastructure development across the country. The partnership aims to foster public-private collaboration, bridging gaps in digital payments and tech financing. By aligning resources and expertise, the trio seeks to empower Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem, providing critical support for startups, SMEs, and digital entrepreneurs. One of the highlights of this collaboration will be Digital Nigeria Week 2025, a premier event…

Abuja, Nigeria – February 22, 2025 Nigeria’s night skies are about to host a breathtaking astronomical event as the country prepares for its first lunar crescent sighting of the year on February 28, according to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA). The agency announced that the crescent will officially appear at 1:45 AM West Africa Time (WAT)—a moment astronomers refer to as the Crescent Zero Hour. However, the thin sliver of moonlight will only become visible to the naked eye between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM. Maiduguri is expected to be the first city in Nigeria to witness…

In A Journey in Service, former Nigerian military president Ibrahim B. Babangida presents a detailed and personal account of his life, military career, and time in governance. The book, which spans decades of Nigerian history, serves as both a memoir and a political chronicle, providing readers with a rare first-hand perspective on some of the most pivotal moments in the nation’s past. With a foreword by General Yakubu Gowon, this autobiography is both a personal reflection and a historical document, offering invaluable insight into Babangida’s decisions, motivations, and lasting influence. Early Life and Military Beginnings Babangida’s narrative begins with his…

2025 Climate Policies Decoded: What Governments and Businesses Are Planning 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year in global climate action, where pledges must transform into tangible progress. As the Paris Agreement undergoes its first major review and net-zero deadlines loom, the pressure is on for governments and corporations alike. Let’s break down the policies and commitments set to reshape our climate future. The year 2025 isn’t just a checkpoint; it’s a crossroads. The United Nations’ Global Stocktake will inform updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), compelling countries to reassess their emission reduction strategies. Meanwhile, over 70% of Fortune…

By John Innocent Bishop Airlines: Navigating Governance Turbulence. As Nigerians navigate the turbulent waters of economic uncertainty, the recent hike in tariffs by telecommunications network providers has left many wondering if the government is exacerbating the problem rather than providing relief. Coming on the heels of increased electricity tariffs and impending charges by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the timing of these hikes has raised questions about the government’s economic strategy. From an economist’s perspective, the decision to increase tariffs in the midst of an economic downturn is puzzling. With Nigeria’s inflation rate hovering around 21.5% (National Bureau of…