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Inter-watch press UDUS, Sokoto (2026)

30/08/2026

𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗧-𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞: 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝗣𝗮𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗦𝗵𝘂𝘁 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗲

By Abdullahi Alatare

A viral notice circulating on social media claiming that OPay will suspend its operations indefinitely from September 1, 2026, is false.

The purported “Official Note,” addressed to OPay customers, claims that the fintech company would stop attending to transactions and account-related services from September 1. It also advises customers to withdraw their funds from their OPay accounts to avoid inconvenience.

However, OPay has debunked the claim, describing the publication as false and urging customers to disregard it.

A check of OPay’s official X account shows that the company posted a clarification stating: “This is FALSE! OPay is not going on break by September.” The company further urged customers to identify its authentic communications and verify information before sharing it.

Several Red Flags Identified

The company’s clarification also points to several inconsistencies in the viral notice that indicate it is not an authentic OPay communication.

The fake publication uses an incorrect OPay logo, which OPay says is not its current official logo. It also uses the wrong spelling of the brand name, writing “Opay” instead of the company’s official “OPay” branding.

In addition, the design and formatting of the document do not follow OPay’s official communication template. These inconsistencies, combined with the false claim about the company going on an indefinite break, further indicate that the document is fabricated.

OPay has therefore advised its customers and members of the public to rely on its verified communication channels when seeking information about its operations.

The company’s position was also reported by THISDAY, which quoted OPay as saying that the viral publication was “false, malicious and misleading” and that the company was not shutting down.

OPay’s response comes amid the rapid circulation of the fabricated notice across social media, where its message to customers to withdraw their funds could potentially create unnecessary panic.

VERDICT: FALSE

The claim that OPay will go on an indefinite break and stop processing transactions from September 1, 2026, is false.

Evidence: OPay has publicly debunked the claim on its official X account and identified multiple red flags in the circulating notice, including an incorrect logo, incorrect brand spelling and an unofficial design template.

What the public should do: Disregard the viral notice and verify financial or operational announcements through OPay’s verified communication channels before taking action.

23/08/2026

P-connect Comes to UDUS Hostels: A New Digital Lifeline or Another Connectivity Challenge?

By Moses Abloda

For many students living in university hostels, internet access has become almost as important as electricity and water. From downloading lecture materials and conducting research to submitting assignments, attending online classes, communicating with friends and running small businesses, the internet has quietly become part of everyday student life.

Yet, staying connected often comes at a cost.

With the rising expense of mobile data subscriptions, students are frequently forced to choose between spending money on internet access and meeting other daily needs. It is against this backdrop that a new hostel-based Wi-Fi service, P-connect, has been introduced at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, offering students the prospect of more affordable and convenient internet access.

The initiative, which is being developed in collaboration with the Student Union Government (SUG) and the Student Affairs Division, is currently in its initial trial period, during which students can access the service for free.

For Prince Ndu, Chief Executive Officer of P-connect, the idea behind the service is straightforward: to make reliable internet access more accessible to students.

“P-connect is a student-focused internet service provider designed to provide affordable, reliable, and high-speed internet connectivity to students, particularly within student hostels,” Ndu explained.

He said the service was created to reduce the burden of expensive mobile data while supporting students in activities ranging from academic research and online learning to communication, business and entertainment.

The company’s proposed subscription model after the free trial is ₦5,000 monthly or ₦300 daily for unlimited access within the P-connect coverage area.
According to Ndu, affordability is central to the initiative.

“We are focused on keeping the service affordable for students while maintaining good network quality,” he said.

A Welcome Development

The arrival of the hostel Wi-Fi has been welcomed by some students, particularly because of the convenience that comes with having internet access closer to where they live.

For ThankGod Edwin, a 100-level student of Criminology and Security Studies, the introduction of the service is a welcome development, although he believes there is still room for improvement.

“I’m very happy with the introduction of the Wi-Fi system in the school hostel, but I think it’s yet to be stable,” Edwin said.

He described the connection process as relatively easy, explaining that students could connect simply by switching on their Wi-Fi and connecting to the network.

However, when asked to rate the internet speed compared with what he had previously used, Edwin gave it 5 out of 10.

He said he sometimes experiences slow internet speeds but believes the issue can be worked on.

For Edwin, one of the most important benefits of the initiative is the easier access it provides to students.

He noted that the service could assist students with research, online classes and communication, making internet access more convenient within the hostel environment.

His experience reflects the cautious optimism among some students: they welcome the idea of hostel Wi-Fi but hope its performance improves as the service develops.

A Welcome Development, But With Concerns

For Shaibu Rufai Omale, a 200-level student of the Department of Pure and Environmental Chemistry, the initiative addresses a genuine need despite some shortcomings in its current performance.

He described his experience with the new Wi-Fi as mixed, noting that the network fluctuates frequently and is not yet fully functional from his experience.

However, Omale believes the introduction of the service itself is a positive development.
“The major benefit is accessibility and convenience,” he said.

According to him, students can access applications and online resources from the comfort of their rooms rather than moving around campus in search of internet connectivity.

For students who have had to walk considerable distances or spend additional money to get reliable data, the prospect of having Wi-Fi within their hostels could represent a significant change in their daily routine.

Omale, however, believes the service needs improvement before it can fully deliver on its promise.

He rated the internet speed he has experienced at 3 out of 10, particularly in comparison with the previous internet options available to him.

Between Promise and Reality

While P-connect management is confident about the service's performance, some students say their early experiences have not entirely matched those expectations.

Omale said connecting to the network has sometimes been difficult, with occasions when he had to wait several minutes or reposition himself before successfully connecting.

He also reported frequent interruptions, saying the connection sometimes disconnects or becomes slow during use.

Another student, who requested anonymity, gave a similarly cautious assessment.

The student said their experience with the Wi-Fi had been limited, but the experience so far had been poor.

Although connecting was easy initially, the student said subsequent attempts became more difficult, particularly because access required being within the FBI hostel area where the service was available to them.

The student also reported frequent interruptions and poor network performance, adding that they had not yet noticed a significant benefit from the service because of their limited use of it.

These experiences raise questions about whether P-connect can consistently deliver the fast and reliable connectivity promised by its management.

Management's Response

For P-connect, however, the current phase is precisely what the trial period is intended to address.

Ndu acknowledged that, like other internet services, P-connect could experience technical, power, equipment or network-related challenges.

“Our objective is to provide stable 24/7 connectivity,” he said. “Like any internet service, there can occasionally be technical, power, equipment, or network-related challenges, but we are putting measures in place to minimize interruptions and respond quickly whenever they occur.”

He explained that the free trial would allow students to use the service under real conditions while providing feedback that could help the company identify and resolve problems before full commercial operation.

Rather than relying solely on internal testing, Ndu said students would have the opportunity to determine the quality of the service themselves through activities such as browsing, online classes, research and streaming.

The company has also designed the connection process to be simple, with support available to students who encounter difficulties. Ndu said students can reach the P-connect team through calls, WhatsApp groups or the company's website.

More Than Just Browsing

The significance of reliable hostel internet goes beyond social media and entertainment.

For students, particularly those in programmes that require extensive research and access to online academic materials, connectivity can directly affect their ability to study.

A student who has dependable internet access in their hostel can download lecture materials, conduct research, communicate with classmates, attend online classes and submit assignments without necessarily leaving the hostel in search of a stronger connection.

For students involved in online businesses, digital services and other internet-dependent activities, the benefits could extend beyond academics.
This is why Omale believes the initiative deserves support even while its current shortcomings are addressed.

He commended the authorities and those behind the installation for recognising the need for reliable internet access among students, describing the introduction of hostel Wi-Fi as a “commendable and significant achievement.”

What Happens After the Trial?

The bigger question now is whether P-connect can transform its promising beginning into a dependable long-term service.

The proposed ₦5,000 monthly subscription and ₦300 daily option could provide an alternative to individual mobile data subscriptions, but the value students receive will ultimately depend on the consistency, coverage and speed of the network.

For a student paying for unlimited access, frequent interruptions or difficulty connecting could quickly become a source of frustration.

At the same time, the trial period offers P-connect an opportunity to listen to its users before the service becomes fully commercial.

Ndu said the company is not presenting itself as a finished product.
“We are not claiming to have everything perfect from day one. We are starting with a vision, listening to our users, and improving as we grow,” he said.

He also appreciated the university authorities, Student Affairs Division and SUG for their support and cooperation, while encouraging them to continue supporting initiatives aimed at addressing practical challenges faced by students.

To the students, his message was equally direct: “P-connect is for you.”

A Connection Still Being Tested

For now, P-connect represents both an opportunity and a work in progress.

Its arrival signals recognition of the growing importance of affordable internet access in student life. The free trial gives students the chance to experience the service without an immediate financial commitment, while their feedback could determine how effectively the system evolves.

But the early experiences of some students show that the journey from installation to dependable connectivity may not be entirely smooth.

Whether P-connect ultimately becomes the reliable digital lifeline students are hoping for will depend not only on the promise of fast, affordable internet, but on how well the service responds to the realities students encounter every day.

For a generation increasingly dependent on the internet to learn, communicate and earn, staying connected is no longer simply a convenience.

It is becoming a necessity.

13/08/2026

A Hundred Naira Difference: How Amana Rides’ Fare Reduction Is Easing Students’ Burden

By Ahmed Rukayat

For many students, the increase from ₦200 to ₦300 was not simply a difference of one hundred naira. It became an additional expense that had to be considered every time they needed to travel between the university and town. For students who use the shuttle regularly, especially those who make several trips within a day, the additional cost could quickly accumulate and place pressure on already limited student budgets. The situation became even more difficult for those who had chosen Amana Rides because of its convenience and female-only service, only to find themselves having to reconsider that choice because of affordability.

The increase also changed the way some students moved around the university. Students who had previously preferred Amana Rides began turning to the regular school shuttle because it offered a cheaper alternative. For some, the decision was not necessarily because they preferred the other buses, but because the additional ₦100 was difficult to justify on a student budget. In this sense, the fare increase created a difficult choice between the comfort and convenience associated with Amana Rides and the need to reduce daily transportation expenses.

One of those affected was Zulaihat Mudassir Al-Mustapha, a regular Amana Rides passenger from the Department of Mass Communication. She said the increase affected her enough to change her usual transportation choice. Having become accustomed to using Amana Rides, she found herself switching to the regular school bus after the fare increased, simply because it was more affordable.

Her experience changed when she later heard that Amana Rides had reduced the fare back to ₦200. The announcement, she said, came as a welcome development after the inconvenience caused by the previous increase. She expressed happiness about the decision and said she hoped the company would maintain the new fare for the benefit of students who depend on the service.

For Students Living in Town, Every Trip Counts

The impact of transportation costs becomes even more noticeable for students who live outside the university environment. Unlike students who may remain on campus for most of the day, those living in town often have to calculate the cost of travelling to school and returning home, sometimes making several journeys within a single day. When the price of each trip rises, the total amount spent on transportation can become a substantial part of a student's daily expenses.

For such students, the increase to ₦300 was therefore more than a temporary inconvenience. It affected their daily routine and forced some to reconsider how they travelled to and from the university. The additional cost could become particularly challenging for students who rely on the shuttle regularly throughout the academic session.

Rabiatu Musa Mohammed, a 200-level student of Political Science and a regular passenger of Amana Rides, experienced this reality firsthand. She explained that the higher fare was particularly difficult for students living in town, as the cost of going to and returning from the university could quickly become expensive.

“It was somehow difficult for students who are staying in town like us because just coming and going back home a day, I used to spend ₦2,600 a day when the price was high,” she said.

The return of the fare to ₦200 therefore offered her a measure of relief. While the reduction may appear modest, Rabiatu said it made transportation feel more manageable.

“I felt a bit relieved about that,” she said.

Beyond her personal experience, Rabiatu believes the reduction could also be beneficial to Amana Rides itself. She suggested that the previous increase may have affected the company's customer base as students searched for cheaper alternatives.

“I think it’s better that they reduce the price because when the price was high they also suffered a great loss due to that, and now we’re glad that they saw the reaction of the students and reduced the price.”

A Relief for Regular Passengers

The return to ₦200 has also been welcomed by other regular passengers who experienced the inconvenience of the previous fare. For students who had already incorporated Amana Rides into their daily routines, the increase meant having to spend more money or look for alternative transportation. While the difference was only ₦100 per trip, repeated journeys could make the additional cost significant over time.

Ramlat Umar, a 400-level Computer Science student and regular passenger, was among those who felt the effect of the increase. She acknowledged that the higher fare caused inconvenience and made transportation more difficult for her as a student.

Asked whether she experienced any inconvenience when the fare increased, she said: “Yes, I did.”

The reduction, however, brought a different feeling. With the fare once again at ₦200, Ramlat said she was pleased with the decision and believed the current price would provide useful support for students who regularly depend on Amana Rides.

“It makes me feel good,” she said.

Her request to the company is simple: “They should please keep the price the way it is now. It really helps the students that follow Amana Rides.”

The Students Were Not the Only Ones Feeling the Pressure

While the students felt the effect of the fare increase in their pockets, the company was also operating in an environment where the cost of running a transportation service had risen sharply. Fuel prices and other operational expenses placed pressure on transport operators, making it increasingly difficult to maintain previous fares without affecting the sustainability of the service.

The decision to increase the fare to ₦300 was therefore made against the backdrop of these rising costs. From the company's perspective, maintaining the previous ₦200 fare while facing higher fuel and operational expenses presented its own challenges.

However, when fuel prices subsequently declined, Amana Rides found an opportunity to reconsider its earlier decision. Instead of keeping the higher fare, the company reduced it to ₦200, allowing students to benefit from the change in operating conditions.

This is where the interests of the students and the realities of the company intersect. Students want an affordable and convenient means of transportation, while the company has to maintain its ability to operate the service. The return to ₦200 represents an attempt to strike a balance between those two realities.

Amana Rides Explains Its Decision

The management of Amana Rides said the decision to return the fare to ₦200 was guided by its commitment to its passengers. According to the management, the company did not make the decision simply as a response to students' complaints, but also because the reduction in fuel prices created an opportunity to reduce the financial burden on its passengers.

“The decision to reduce our fare from ₦300 back to ₦200 reflects our commitment to putting our passengers first whenever circumstances allow,” the management said.

Explaining the circumstances surrounding the earlier increase, the company said it had been forced to respond to the rising cost of operating the service.

“While we increased the fare in response to the sharp rise in fuel prices and other operating costs, the recent reduction in fuel prices gave us the opportunity to pass the benefit on to the students we serve,” the management said.

The company also addressed one of the major concerns that could remain in the minds of students: whether the ₦200 fare will eventually be increased again. While management acknowledged that economic circumstances can change, it said its present intention is to maintain the current fare for as long as possible.

“Our sincere expectation and commitment is that the ₦200 fare will remain in place for a long time,” the management said.

It added that, “Based on the current outlook, we do not foresee the need for another fare increase in the near future, and we are doing everything within our power to absorb operational costs and maintain this fare.”

Still, the company recognised that unforeseen economic changes could affect its operations in the future.

“Of course, like every responsible business, we must also acknowledge that unforeseen economic changes beyond our control could arise,” the management said.

Even in such a situation, management said increasing the fare would not be its first option.

“However, any future review of our fares would only be considered as a last resort, after exploring every possible option to avoid placing an additional burden on our passengers.”

The statement reinforces the central issue surrounding the fare: affordability. While students want a service that fits within their budgets, Amana Rides must also contend with the economic realities of keeping its buses on the road.

For now, however, both sides appear to have found some relief in the return to ₦200.

30/07/2026

MACOSA to Host Media Training on Ethics and Digital Journalism

By Ahmed Rukayat

The Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA), Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS) Chapter, is set to organise the MACOSA Media Training 2026 as part of efforts to equip students with practical knowledge and skills for the evolving media industry.

The training, scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Prad-Lab, will commence at 9:00 a.m. It is being organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Chapter, Jikan Babi Media Production and Consultancy, Sokoto, and ALU TV International, Nigeria.

The programme is themed "Empowering the Next Generation of Media Professionals Through Innovation, Ethics, and Digital Journalism," reflecting the organisers' commitment to preparing students for the demands of modern journalism and media practice.

Participants will receive lectures on key areas of the profession, including "Journalism Ethics and Professionalism in the Digital Age" and "Innovation and Digital Journalism: Preparing for the Future of the Media Industry." The sessions are expected to expose students to contemporary media trends, ethical reporting standards, and the impact of digital technologies on journalism

According to the organisers, the training is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice by providing students with practical insights from experienced media practitioners. It will also create opportunities for interaction, networking, and knowledge sharing among aspiring journalists and communication professionals.

The event is expected to attract students, media professionals, academics, and stakeholders interested in advancing journalism education and promoting ethical, innovative, and digitally driven media practice.

The organisers encouraged all Mass Communication students and other interested participants to take advantage of the training, describing it as an opportunity to learn, engage, innovate, and lead in today's rapidly changing media landscape.

29/07/2026

Beyond the Bench: How Deji Adeyanju's Visit Inspired Law Students at UDUS

By Oladimeji Kabir

The Moot Court Hall at the Faculty of Law, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), came alive with anticipation as aspiring lawyers prepared to test their advocacy skills before one of Nigeria's foremost human rights lawyers, Deji Adeyanju. What began as a routine moot court competition soon became an unforgettable lesson in excellence, generosity, and mentorship.

Renowned human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju visited the faculty as a guest judge during a moot court competition between a team of UG V (500-level) students and a combined team representing UG I to UG IV (100- to 400-level students). Organised in collaboration with the Law Students' Association (LAWSAN), the exercise was designed to sharpen students' courtroom advocacy, legal reasoning, and confidence before they enter legal practice.

Throughout the proceedings, Adeyanju listened attentively as both teams presented their arguments, assessing their courtroom etiquette, legal analysis, and advocacy skills while offering observations that reflected the realities of modern legal practice. For many students, the opportunity to argue before a lawyer of his stature was itself a memorable learning experience.

However, the day's biggest lesson came after the moot court had ended.

In a gesture that drew prolonged applause from students and lecturers alike, Adeyanju rewarded each member of the winning team (UG I–IV) with ₦100,000, while members of the opposing team (UG V) each received ₦50,000 in recognition of their impressive performance. The financial rewards underscored his belief that dedication and excellence deserve encouragement, regardless of the outcome of the competition.

His generosity did not end there.

To further strengthen student development within the faculty, he announced a ₦1 million donation to LAWSAN to support its activities and programmes. He also pledged to sponsor the Nigerian Law School tuition of the graduating student with the highest CGPA, a commitment aimed at rewarding academic excellence and easing the financial burden often associated with legal education.

In another announcement that excited many students, Adeyanju promised internship opportunities for two law students, offering them the chance to gain practical experience under experienced legal practitioners. For many aspiring lawyers, the pledge represented more than an internship; it was an opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and legal practice.

As news of the announcements spread across the Faculty, conversations among students shifted from the moot court itself to the possibilities the visit had created. For many, the event was not merely about who won or lost the competition but about renewed hope, motivation, and a reminder that success in the legal profession can also mean lifting others.

For many students, Deji Adeyanju's visit extended beyond the moot court proceedings, leaving them with valuable lessons about the legal profession, perseverance, and the rewards of hard work.

When speaking with Inter-Watch Press, Yisau Babatunde, a 300-level law student, said one of the moments that resonated most with him was Adeyanju's remarks on the importance of seniority and dedication in the legal profession. According to him, the lawyer's address provided a realistic picture of the discipline, hierarchy, and commitment required to succeed in legal practice.

Babatunde added that Adeyanju's generosity also prompted him to reflect on the opportunities available within the legal profession and the impact that excellence and hard work can have on one's career.

"When he announced the cash rewards and other commitments, I started thinking about how he had become so successful in the profession to be able to give out that much. At that moment, I told myself that I must also succeed and make a meaningful impact through this profession," he said.

He further explained that watching the counsels present their arguments before the guest judge and observing the enthusiasm of the audience changed his perception of mooting.

"Seeing the counsels argue their cases and the level of interest shown by the audience made me realise that mooting is not just another academic activity. It inspired me not only to strive for academic excellence but also to aspire to become one of the best advocates in moot court practice," he added.

Reflecting on the broader lesson from the event, Babatunde said the experience reinforced the importance of persistence and excellence.
"For me, the message is simple: keep striving until the very end. People remember and celebrate those who persevere and eventually succeed," he further added.

A Moment That Will Stay With Us: Counsels Reflect on the Experience

While many students watched from the gallery, the experience carried even greater significance for the counsels who stood before the bench to argue their cases. For them, the moot court was more than a competition it was an opportunity to test their advocacy skills before a renowned legal practitioner and gain lessons that will shape their future careers.

Reflecting on the experience, the participating counsels described the event as both challenging and inspiring, noting that Deji Adeyanju's courtroom conduct, words of encouragement, and generous support left a lasting impression on them.

Among them was Musa Abdulmuhsin Sahban (SAS), a 500-level law student who represented UG V during the moot court competition. He described the exercise as one of the defining moments of his academic journey, saying that appearing before renowned human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju was both a privilege and a valuable learning experience.

According to him, the courtroom session was intense from the outset, but the opportunity to argue before such an experienced legal practitioner made every moment worthwhile.

"It was a heated courtroom session to start with. I was happy that I had the privilege of appearing before him. What stood out most for me was the way he controlled the court and ensured that we managed the limited time we had effectively," he said.

Sahban further recalled the moment Adeyanju announced the cash rewards for both teams, describing it as completely unexpected and deeply motivating.
"I was completely taken aback when he announced the cash award. I was excited at the same time. It was one of those moments that makes you look into the future and challenge yourself to step up your game," he said.

Beyond the financial reward, Sahban noted that the experience taught him one of the most enduring lessons of his legal education.
"That moment taught me humility at its highest level. It reminded me that no matter the position I attain in the future, humility should always remain my guiding principle," he added.

For him, the visit conveyed a clear message to every law student about the standards expected in the legal profession.
"The central message I took from his visit is that whatever is worth doing is worth doing well. We should prepare ourselves for real legal practice by striving for excellence while remaining humble and respectful because legal practice, just like the military, is built on discipline and respect for seniority," he said.

Among the participants who shared their experiences with Inter-Watch Press was Naziru Sulaiman, a 300-level law student and counsel for the winning team. Sulaiman, who was among the Respondents' counsel, described the moot court competition as one of the most memorable experiences of his academic journey.

According to him, appearing before renowned human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju was both exciting and inspiring. Beyond the courtroom proceedings, he said he was particularly impressed by Adeyanju's approachable personality.

"It was a really amazing and interesting experience. One of the things that stood out most for me was how friendly and jovial Deji Adeyanju was," he said.

However, Naziru noted that what many people did not see was the enormous effort that went into preparing for the competition.
"Another thing that stood out was the sleepless nights we had drafting our processes. We spent countless hours researching, preparing our arguments, and planning what we were going to present before the court. I even appeared with bloodshot eyes because of the lack of sleep," he recalled.

Reflecting on the moment Deji Adeyanju announced the cash rewards, Naziru admitted that the gesture came as a complete surprise.

"To be very honest, when he announced the cash prize, I felt so happy and thankful because I never expected it. It was a moment of great joy for us after all the effort we had put into preparing for the competition," he said.

For Naziru, the experience reinforced the importance of hard work and sacrifice in the legal profession.
"The biggest lesson I learnt is that hard work, research, and sacrifice are truly the keys to success. Our preparation reminded me that excellence does not happen by chance, it comes through dedication and consistent effort," he added.

Beyond the rewards, Naziru believes Deji Adeyanju's visit carried a broader message about leadership and service.
"One message that was very clear from his visit is the importance of giving back to society and making an impact. If more successful legal practitioners support students the way Deji Adeyanju has done, law students will have greater access to mentorship, motivation, and opportunities to grow," he said.

Recognition Beyond Victory: Best Advocate Reflects on a Long-Awaited Milestone

While the moot court competition showcased impressive advocacy from both teams, one participant distinguished himself through exceptional courtroom advocacy, earning the coveted Best Advocate Award.

For Gbolahan Badru, a 500-level law student (SAS) and member of the team representing the final-year class, the recognition was far more than an award, it was the fulfilment of years of preparation, dedication, and unwavering passion for advocacy.

Speaking with Inter-Watch Press, Badru described the moment his name was announced as one of the proudest moments of his academic journey.
"When I was announced as the Best Advocate, I felt so proud of myself because it was a moment I had waited many years for. I had always looked forward to the day my advocacy would be recognised within the courtroom," he said.

He also explained that although he had previously received praise for his public speaking and advocacy skills outside the courtroom, this recognition carried a unique significance.

"I've received accolades for my advocacy and presentation skills before, but those were mostly outside the courtroom. What made this one special was that I had the opportunity to test my advocacy before the celebrity lawyer in court, and I excelled. For me, it was a moment of personal validation, years of study, effort, reading, and practice coming together. But this is not the end; we will continue striving for excellence," he added.

Reflecting on what earned him the recognition, Badru attributed his success not to performance or showmanship but to authenticity, passion, and thorough preparation.

"I wasn't trying to impress anyone or put on a performance. Everything came naturally because I genuinely love advocacy and believe in the spirit of the law. When you are original and you speak from knowledge rather than acting, your arguments become meaningful and convincing," he explained.

He further revealed the extent of his preparation before the competition, recalling how he spent hours rehearsing on his own to perfect his advocacy.
"A day before the competition, I kept rehearsing throughout my journey back to the hostel. Whenever I mispronounced a word, I repeated it until I got it right. I didn't want us to invite an accomplished legal practitioner and leave a poor impression. Preparation gave me confidence," he said.

For younger law students hoping to excel in advocacy, Badru stressed that confidence is built on knowledge rather than appearance.
"Read your books. Knowledge gives birth to confidence. You cannot speak confidently without understanding what you are arguing. Master the substantive and procedural aspects of the law, because when you know the law, confidence comes naturally," he advised.

Recalling Deji Adeyanju's announcements after the competition, Badru said the lawyer's generosity demonstrated a commitment to investing in the next generation of legal practitioners.

"When Deji Adeyanju made those announcements, I felt proud to witness such a remarkable opportunity being created for law students. I believe many students left that courtroom with renewed hope because his message went beyond financial rewards—it showed that successful lawyers can give back and inspire those coming behind them," he said.

For Badru, the moot court was not merely a competition but a reminder that excellence is achieved through discipline, preparation, and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement

As the applause faded and students gradually left the Moot Court Hall, many departed with more than memories of an exciting courtroom contest. They left with renewed hope, fresh motivation, and a stronger belief that excellence, hard work, and dedication can open doors to remarkable opportunities.

Beyond the cash rewards, scholarship pledge, internship opportunities, and donation to LAWSAN, Deji Adeyanju's visit served as a powerful reminder that accomplished legal practitioners have a vital role to play in mentoring and investing in the next generation. His gestures demonstrated that success in the legal profession is measured not only by personal achievements but also by the willingness to inspire and uplift others.

For many law students at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, the event was more than a moot court competition. It was a lesson in advocacy, humility, discipline, and service. More importantly, it reaffirmed that every hour spent studying, every moot court appearance, and every challenge encountered on the journey to becoming a lawyer can one day lead to opportunities that extend far beyond the walls of the classroom.

As the Faculty of Law continues to nurture future advocates, the memories of that remarkable day will likely remain a source of inspiration, encouraging students to pursue excellence with confidence, integrity, and the determination to one day give back to those who follow in their footsteps.

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