Kokoroko Nigeria News

15/10/2025

The Decline of Our Education System: Why Removing Mathematics Is a Dangerous Policy

As the government continues to gamble with policies, mathematics is no longer required for art students seeking admission into higher institutions.

In recent times, our educational system has witnessed a steady decline — from the frustration of graduates unable to secure their dream jobs to students being offered courses that have no connection to their passions. All these issues have made many people say that education is a scam. Although that’s not true, the system has made it appear so.

One of the latest controversial policies is the removal of mathematics as a criterion for admission into arts and humanities courses in universities and polytechnics — a decision approved by the Minister of Education.

If you look at borrowed courses in schools, they are meant to support the main courses so that, upon graduation, students don’t become ignorant of related fields. Without such knowledge, their degrees lose value and depth.

Mathematics, in particular, is a fundamental subject that plays an important role in our daily lives. Beyond its practical uses, it develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills that make other subjects easier to understand. You’ll often hear students say, “If you know mathematics, every other subject becomes easier.” Mathematics has always been a key requirement for science students — preparing them for demanding fields like medicine, engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence. These fields drive global economies, industrialization, and technological advancement. With our nation already facing a shortage of students in these areas, this new policy will only worsen the situation. Many may now opt for “softer” courses just to earn a degree.

Yet, it’s true that mathematics has long been a nightmare for many students — either due to a poor foundation in basic arithmetic or a lack of interest. The shortage of qualified teachers has only made things worse, contributing to widespread failure in the subject. Most students study mathematics only to achieve the minimum grade required for admission, not out of genuine interest or understanding.

Another issue lies in the curriculum itself — with too many topics that have little relevance to students’ future careers. For instance, how useful is calculus to most non-science courses? Even topics as common as algebra are rarely applied in many professions. These are the areas the government should have reviewed, rather than removing mathematics entirely as a requirement for admission.

Now, children who already fear mathematics will see no reason to even learn the basics — skills they actually need for everyday life.

Politicians are not academics, and it’s clear that proper consultation was not done before approving this policy. The future of industrialization lies in science and technology courses. By striking a blow at the very foundation of these fields, we are endangering our nation’s progress.

15/10/2025

The Illusion of Unity: Why Nigeria’s Foundation Remains Shaky

Nigeria’s continued existence as a nation is heavily dependent on the monthly inflow of oil revenue. If that source of wealth ever runs dry, or if each major region becomes economically self-sufficient, the unity of Nigeria as a single nation could be seriously threatened.

The British amalgamation of diverse ethnic groups with contrasting and often conflicting ideologies laid a foundation for constant tension. Since independence, different groups have continually sought to assert their identities or autonomy. From regional to federal governments—down to states, local governments, and councils—the desire for self-recognition has always been clear.

One of the greatest illusions of modern history is the belief that the largely conservative, Islamic North and the liberal, Christian South can permanently coexist under one national identity. Historically, the two religions from which these ideologies stem have been in conflict for centuries, and that hostility persists among their followers. Any appearance of unity is often superficial, existing mainly when it comes to sharing national resources.

In Nigeria, ethnic and religious backgrounds often determine leadership choices before competence or national interest is even considered. This bias is reflected in appointments and policy directions that favor one’s ethnic or religious group. Consequently, successive governments frequently reverse or reshape policies to suit their group interests rather than the nation’s collective good. Even within the same ethnic or religious groups, internal divisions still exist, further complicating matters.

Nepotism thrives within government agencies and institutions, undermining efficiency and fairness. Even when a president introduces sound policies, those responsible for implementation often sabotage them for selfish, ethnic, or religious reasons. Over time, Nigerians have become accustomed to this dysfunction. Instead of challenging it, many have adapted to it, adopting the mindset of “if you can’t beat them, join them.” This has fueled a culture of survivalism where individuals pursue personal gain at the expense of the common good—a dangerous trend for any nation.

Although democracy is often described as the voice of the people, in practice, it can act as a refined form of bondage—especially in societies where loyalty to tribe and religion outweighs national unity. True federalism could help distribute power fairly among the regions, but those benefiting from centralized control continue to resist it. A clear example is seen in state governors preventing federal allocations from reaching local governments, even when the president supports decentralization.

The only viable solution is to hold a national referendum, where all ethnic, religious, economic, and cultural groups come together to decide the best path forward for the country. Only through open dialogue and mutual agreement can Nigeria chart a sustainable and peaceful future.

15/10/2025

NIGERIA'S HEADLINES TODAY 🇳🇬🌍 | October 15th, 2025

In today’s top stories:

Education Reform: Mathematics is no longer compulsory for Arts and Humanities students — FG announces major admission policy change. 🎓

Sports: Victor Osimhen’s stunning hat-trick keeps Nigeria’s World Cup dream alive! ⚽🦅

Security: A new terror group, Wulowulo, linked to Boko Haram, emerges in North-Central Nigeria. ⚠️

Politics: Senate targets December 2025 to conclude Electoral Act amendment, says Opeyemi Bamidele. 🏛️

National Affairs: Senate sets up 12-member ad hoc committee to probe alleged Christian genocide claims. ✝️

Africa News: Military takes over in Madagascar after President Rajoelina’s impeachment — protests rock the nation. 🇲🇬

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14/10/2025

When Strikes Feel Like Hostage-Taking

At first glance, strikes and hostage-taking seem completely different. One is seen as a civil right; the other, a crime. But when you look closely, they’re not as far apart as we might think.

All over the world, unions go on strike to demand better conditions. They drop their tools, shut down systems, and force the government to come to the table. On the other hand, hostage-takers — often labeled as criminals — also use pressure tactics to make authorities listen. One is called activism, the other terrorism… but don’t they both aim for the same thing — to force negotiation?

There’s a popular saying: “When two elephants fight, the grass suffers.” And that’s exactly what happens. Ordinary people — the masses — end up paying the price for the power play between strikers, hostage-takers, and negligent governments.

Look at the war between Hamas and Israel, for example. Israel claims it has killed about 25,000 Hamas fighters, yet total deaths are estimated around 67,000, with countless injuries and massive destruction. Innocent civilians on both sides have suffered far more than those who started the fight.

Now, back home in Nigeria, we see the same pattern in a different form. Our unions are quick to go on strike — sometimes at the slightest provocation. Doctors abandon patients in critical condition; lecturers walk away from classrooms, leaving students stranded for months or even years. But here’s the irony: neither the strikers nor the government officials they’re protesting against truly feel the pain.

Many union leaders send their children to private or foreign schools. Many politicians fly abroad for medical care when local hospitals shut down. So, who really suffers? The average Nigerian — the ones who can’t afford to leave.

Recently, the PENGASSAN strike over a trade dispute with Dangote Refinery — a private company, not even the government — disrupted the country’s energy supply chain. We’re still feeling the effects today.

The truth is, there must be accountability. People should be held responsible for the loss of lives, property, and national hardship caused by their actions — whether they wear a suit, a lab coat, or a union badge. The government’s “no work, no pay” rule doesn’t really work either, because unions often go on another strike just to demand payment for the same period they didn’t work.

So, what’s the way forward?
If we truly live in a democracy, then we — the people — must rise up and pressure our lawmakers to protect the masses. There must be laws that balance the rights of workers with the rights of citizens. Because until that happens, the system will remain chaotic, and the grass — that’s us — will keep suffering every time the elephants fight.

14/10/2025

HEADLINES TODAY (14th October 2025)
Nigeria’s major stories making waves today:

1️⃣ Nationwide Strike: ASUU fires back at Tinubu government’s “No Work, No Pay” order — says lecturers won’t bow to threats.
2️⃣ Ohanaeze Youths: Endorse October 20 nationwide protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s release, warn Tinubu against injustice.
3️⃣ Sheikh Gumi: Calls on Nigerian government to make peace with bandits, citing Israel–Hamas truce as example.
4️⃣ Kano Pillars Sanctioned: NPFL slams ₦9.5m fine, stadium ban, and 3-point deduction after pitch invasion chaos.
5️⃣ Maryam Sanda’s Presidential Pardon: Family of murdered Bilyaminu Bello condemns “injustice” and calls it a national disgrace.
6️⃣ Middle East Update: Hamas releases all remaining 20 Israeli hostages under US-brokered peace deal as Gaza faces humanitarian disaster.

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13/10/2025

The Politicization and Culturalization of the Spiritual Doctrine of Forgiveness

The followers of Nigeria’s two dominant religions are often consciously or unconsciously emotionally tied to their respective doctrines. Both faiths preach forgiveness of sins, assuring that as long as one sincerely seeks pardon while still alive, no transgression is beyond redemption.

However, in Nigeria, this concept of forgiveness is frequently influenced by cultural and political affiliations—particularly among those with the authority to grant such pardons.

This reflection is inspired by the recent pardon of 175 convicted Nigerians, some of whom were found guilty of grave crimes, including murder and drug trafficking. The decision sparked widespread criticism, especially from opposition parties. Yet, these same groups have acted similarly when in power. For instance, the PDP government once negotiated with Niger Delta militants—who had taken up arms against the state and crippled national oil production—offering them amnesty and even awarding them contracts to protect the very facilities they once attacked.

Since then, similar acts of pardon have recurred across the nation: from amnesty programs for Boko Haram insurgents to negotiations with bandits, and even the release of Sunday Igboho. Many of these individuals or groups had committed what Nigerian law defines as treasonable offenses, yet they were granted forgiveness—and in some cases, continued their actions afterward.

Criticism of these moves often depends on one’s political or regional loyalties. For instance, many Christians and Southerners oppose forgiveness for Boko Haram and bandits, while Muslims and Northerners reject calls for amnesty for IPOB or other Southern agitators. This sentiment echoes the current debate surrounding the release or continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu.

In all of this, the Nigerian Constitution—which does not incorporate religious doctrines—has often been sidelined. Forgiveness, meant to encourage repentance and serve as a deterrent, has instead been politicized. By excusing offenders based on religious, cultural, or political considerations, we embolden others to commit crimes, believing they too will be shielded from justice. This growing sense of impunity can push citizens to take the law into their own hands, losing faith in the fairness of the legal system.

To preserve justice and social order, emotions must be set aside in such sensitive matters. Only those coerced or misled into committing crimes should be considered for pardon. Those who deliberately break the law must face the consequences as stipulated by the Constitution. This remains the only effective way to deter future offenders and uphold the rule of law.

13/10/2025

Nigeria's news updates today 13/10/2025

FG warns ASUU — the Federal Government tells lecturers not to strike or face “No Work, No Pay.”
💳 CBN gives banks 48 hours to refund failed ATM transactions — can this restore trust in the system?
💼 Wale Edun reportedly suffers stroke, flown abroad as Tinubu considers replacement.
⚽ Kano Pillars fans go wild after late equaliser — chaos erupts at NPFL match!
🕊️ Katsina Government opens peace talks with bandits across five local councils.
⚖️ Atiku blasts Tinubu over presidential clemency — says it undermines justice.

Stay tuned for the latest breaking news, verified updates, and political insights across Nigeria.
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12/10/2025

12/10/2025

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Welcome to KOKOROKO NIGERIA'S NEWS UPDATES– your trusted source for verified Nigerian news updates. We bring you the latest news in Nigeria, including politics, economy, security, and social updates. Our reports are sourced from credible newspapers, radio, television, and trusted local and interna...

12/10/2025

Nigeria’s top headlines this Today 12/10/2025

President Bola Tinubu grants Maryam Sanda a presidential pardon after she was convicted for killing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello. 🇳🇬Tinubu also departs Abuja for Rome to attend the Aqaba Process Summit on global security. ✈️Meanwhile, PDP’s Bala Mohammed vows the opposition will return to A*o Villa in 2027 despite defections. 🏛️Plus — a ValueJet plane carrying Nigeria’s Super Eagles makes an emergency landing in Angola! ⚽In international news, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore pushes for Nigeria’s re-designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” over killings in Christian communities.And from the Middle East, a top Hamas official confirms that hostage releases will begin Monday morning under a new truce deal. 🌍Stay informed — subscribe for daily political, national, and world news updates! 🔔---🎯
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11/10/2025

Today on Nigeria Now Update, 11/10/2025.

We bring you the biggest political, national, and global stories making waves:

Gov Mbah to formally join APC on Tuesday

Protest: Nigerian Army Distances Itself From page Run By Soldiers Threatening Sowore, Others

World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles edge Lesotho to keep qualification hopes alive.

We didn’t import bad fuel – Dangote Refinery

Alleged Christian Genocide: Nigerian lawmakers to send delegation to US Congress

White House Condemns Nobel Peace Prize Decision After Committee Chooses Machado Over Trump

Stay tuned for credible updates, balanced analysis, and trending stories from Nigeria and around the world.
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