Nigeria's domestic challenges undermine its global influence, says Maranatha University Vice-Chancellor
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Professor Rufus Akinyele, Vice-Chancellor of Maranatha University, stated that Nigeria's domestic challenges are diminishing its global influence. He made these remarks while reviewing a compendium titled “Governance Crises and Contradictions in Nigeria’s Relations,” a festschrift honoring Professor Solomon Akinboye, former Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Lagos. Akinyele noted that Nigeria, once a "big brother" on the African continent, has lost this position due to internal issues, including the exclusion of women from governance, which he attributed to godfatherism and consensus candidacy. Guest lecturer Alade Fawole, speaking on "Nigeria–US Relations in an Unstable World Order," urged Nigerians to recognize threats to the country's sovereignty and to avoid discrediting the government, warning of long-term consequences. He emphasized the importance of citizens uniting to defend national sovereignty despite internal grievances. Former Senator Anthony Adefuye also spoke at the event, congratulating Professor Akinboye on his retirement and commending the University of Lagos leadership and students.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Afrobeats artist Davido, also known as David Adeleke, has scheduled an exclusive live premiere for his upcoming album, 'Oriade', in London on August 11. The singer shared this announcement on his X account, inviting fans to the O2 Forum Kentish Town for what he described as the "first and only chance to hear Oriade performed live." Tickets for the event are currently on sale. Davido had previously informed his fans that 'Oriade', his sixth studio album, is set for release on July 31. The album's title, 'Oriade', translates to "the crowned head" from Yoruba, combining "ori" destiny and "adé" crown. This album is intended to commemorate his 15 years in the music industry. Davido stated to Billboard that he decided to trust his musical destiny over fifteen years ago, believing that significant blessings come from self-belief. The lead single, "I Know Who I Be," featuring South African producers Jazzwrld and GL Ceejay, has already been released. The 13-track 'Oriade' is described as a return to his original, high-energy African sound, moving away from heavily pop-focused crossovers. This album follows his 2025 Billboard chart hit album, "5ive".
Wigwe University, founded by the late Herbert Wigwe, is facing allegations of mass staff dismissals, intimidation, and administrative high-handedness. Former employees, including Dr. Nonyelum Okechukwu, a university librarian, and Amarachi Ogbennia, a college secretary, claim their appointments were terminated without due process or clear reasons. Other former staff members, including a lecturer from Zimbabwe and a former deputy registrar, describe an atmosphere of fear and arbitrary dismissals, with some attributing these issues to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi. Documents reportedly indicate that about 30 academic and non-academic employees have either been terminated or resigned. Civil society organizations and legal experts are calling for an independent investigation, emphasizing that even private institutions must adhere to Nigerian labor laws. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi, denies personally terminating anyone's appointment, stating that the university follows established procedures for disciplinary matters and maintains high standards, with no place for "lazy people."
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