"The Forgotten Pandemic: Why Brain Diseases Deserve a Global Response

In a world increasingly shaped by technological progress and medical breakthroughs, one silent epidemic continues to escalate: brain diseases. From stroke and dementia to epilepsy and diabetic neuropathy, neurological conditions now represent the leading cause of illness and disability worldwide, affecting over 3 billion people—nearly half the global population.

🌍 A Growing Burden

The scale of the crisis is staggering. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, neurological disorders accounted for 443 million years of healthy life lost in 2021 alone. This figure surpasses even cardiovascular diseases, long considered the dominant global health threat.

The top contributors to this burden include:

- Stroke

- Alzheimer’s and other dementias

- Migraine

- Epilepsy

- Diabetic neuropathy

- Autism spectrum disorder

- Nervous system cancers

- Neurological complications from preterm birth and COVID-19

⚠️ Causes: A Complex Web

The causes of brain diseases are multifaceted:

- Genetic predisposition plays a role in conditions like Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease.

- Lifestyle factors—poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse—contribute to stroke and diabetic neuropathy.

- Environmental exposures, including pollution and infections, are linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.

- Social determinants, such as poverty and limited access to education, exacerbate risks and outcomes.

💉 Treatment & Cure: A Tale of Inequality

While some brain diseases are treatable or manageable, access to care is deeply unequal. High-income countries boast up to 70 times more neurological professionals per 100,000 people than low- and middle-income nations. This disparity means millions suffer without diagnosis, let alone treatment.

Current treatments include:

- Medication (e.g., antiepileptics, antidepressants, cholinesterase inhibitors for dementia)

- Surgical interventions (e.g., for tumors or severe epilepsy)

- Rehabilitation therapies (physical, cognitive, speech)

- Psychosocial support—often overlooked but essential

However, cures remain elusive for many conditions. Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS still lack definitive cures, and research is hampered by underfunding and limited global collaboration.

🔬 The Path Forward: Research, Equity, and Awareness

To combat this crisis, we must:

- Invest in brain research—not just in wealthy nations, but globally.

- Expand access to neurological care, especially in underserved regions.

- Promote brain health education from early childhood.

- Address systemic inequities that leave billions vulnerable.

As Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of the WHO aptly stated, “It is more important than ever to ensure brain health is better understood, valued and protected, from early childhood to later life”.

🗣️ Final Thoughts

Brain diseases are not just medical challenges—they are societal ones. They rob individuals of dignity, families of connection, and economies of productivity. If we are to build a healthier, more equitable future, brain health must be at the forefront of global health agendas.

Let this editorial be a rallying cry: the time to act is now

📰 Global Flashpoints: Armed Conflicts and Fragile Diplomacy in 2025

🔥 Armed Conflicts: Escalations & Flashpoints

1. Russia–Ukraine War

- Now in its fourth year, this war remains one of the deadliest active conflicts.

- Over 350,000 military casualties have been reported, with no durable peace agreement in sight.

- Bilateral nuclear arms control between Russia and the U.S. has collapsed, raising fears of a renewed arms race.

2. Middle East: Israel–Gaza–Qatar

- On September 9, Israel launched airstrikes in Doha, Qatar, targeting Hamas leadership.

- The UN condemned the attack as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, warning it could trigger “a perilous new chapter” in the region.

- Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. had been mediating ceasefire talks in Gaza, which are now at risk of collapse.

3. Sahel Region: Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso

- These nations have withdrawn from ECOWAS and formed an informal Alliance of Sahel States, rejecting constitutional transitions.

- Armed jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS continue to destabilize the region, with drone and IED attacks on the rise.

- Diplomatic efforts like the Algiers Accords are being revisited to restore stability.

4. Horn of Africa: Ethiopia vs. Trilateral Bloc

- A new alignment between Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt is emerging to counter Ethiopia’s growing influence over the Red Sea.

- Proxy confrontations are escalating, with concerns over maritime control and regional dominance.

🕊️ Diplomacy: Fragile Progress & Strategic Shifts

1. UN Peace Operations

- The UN’s Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) warns that peace operations are underfunded—only $12.7 million received out of a required $43 million for 2025.

- Weak mandates and limited political support are undermining conflict resolution efforts.

2. Global Nuclear Diplomacy

- The world now holds 12,241 nuclear weapons, with 3,912 deployed and 2,100 on high alert.

- The era of nuclear disarmament is fading, and multilateral arms control is in crisis.

3. Indo-Pacific Tensions

- India is advancing hypersonic defense systems, while North Korea strengthens ties with Russia.

- The Taiwan Strait remains a flashpoint, with global trade routes at risk.

📊 Evidence & Sources

- SIPRI Yearbook 2025 Summary: Offers detailed data on military spending, arms transfers, and nuclear forces.

- UN DPPA Briefing (Sept 6–12): Covers diplomatic fallout from Israel’s strike on Qatar and funding gaps in peace operations.

- Diplomacy Outlook 2025 – The Geostrata: Analyzes shifting alliances, proxy confrontations, and regional diplomacy.

The world is balancing on a knife’s edge—conflicts are intensifying, and diplomacy is under strain. Yet, there are still channels of negotiation open.

A World on Edge: Power Shifts, Storms, and the Rise of AI

🔥 Geopolitical Tensions & Conflicts

- Armed Conflicts: Over 110 active armed conflicts are ongoing globally, with the war in Ukraine entering its fourth year and resulting in over 350,000 military casualties.

- Misinformation Surge: Generative AI has amplified misinformation, contributing to societal polarization. According to the Global Risks Report 2025, 52% of chief risk officers expect an “unsettled” short-term future.

🏛️ Political Shifts & Controversies

- U.S. Federal Power Consolidation: President Trump’s administration has centralized economic control, managing $1.15 trillion in foreign investment funds from Japan and the EU.

- Immigration Enforcement: Massive ICE raids, including one at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, signal intensified federal action. Sanctuary cities like Chicago and Boston are under scrutiny.

- National Guard Deployments: Troops remain stationed in Washington, D.C., until November 30, sparking legal challenges over constitutional violations.

📉 Economic Indicators

- U.S. GDP Growth: Q2 real GDP rose by 3.0%, rebounding from a −0.5% contraction in Q1. However, volatility driven by tariffs and executive trade deals raises concerns.

- Inflation Trends: The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index increased at an annual rate of 2.9%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.7%, prompting fears of stagflation.

🧠 Technology & AI

- AI’s Expanding Role: AI continues to reshape labor markets and information ecosystems. Its influence is now considered a top-tier global risk, especially in relation to misinformation and job displacement.

🌡️ Climate & Natural Disasters

- Hurricane Erin: The storm is moving northward, triggering evacuations and emergency responses across coastal regions.

- Energy Transition: Progress is being made globally, but disparities remain. Renewable energy adoption is accelerating, though fossil fuel dependency persists in key regions.

🏥 Health & Demographics

- Global Health Stats: According to WHO’s 2025 report:

  - Healthy life expectancy continues to rise globally, though inequalities in immunization and premature mortality remain pressing issues.

  - The Triple Billion targets—1 billion more people benefiting from universal health coverage, better emergency protection, and improved well-being—are still far from being met.

This month’s headlines reflect a world at multiple crossroads—politically, economically, and socially. From executive power shifts to climate emergencies and AI’s disruptive rise, the global landscape is anything but static.

The Assassination of Charlie Kirk—A Nation Divided, A Democracy Tested

Who killed Charlie Kirk?

As of this writing, the FBI has not publicly named the shooter, though surveillance footage captured a suspect fleeing from a rooftop near the event venue. A high-powered bolt-action rifle was recovered in a wooded area, believed to be the murder weapon. Authorities are analyzing forensic evidence, including palm and forearm imprints, and have launched a nationwide manhunt.

While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the political undertones are unmistakable. Utah Governor Spencer Cox called it a "political assassination," and President Donald Trump vowed to "hunt down every single person responsible." The shooter’s motive remains under investigation, but Kirk’s controversial views—particularly his anti-Islam rhetoric, staunch pro-Israel stance, and hardline conservatism—have made him a polarizing figure.

Why Was He Targeted?

Charlie Kirk was not just a commentator—he was a symbol. At 31, he had built Turning Point USA into a youth-driven conservative powerhouse. His speeches, often provocative, challenged liberal ideologies and stirred intense reactions. He opposed immigration, criticized civil rights reforms, and linked Islam to terrorism. These positions earned him admiration from the right and condemnation from the left.

His death has sparked mourning in the U.S. and Israel, while celebrations erupted in parts of Palestine and some Muslim-majority nations. This global divide underscores the ideological fault lines Kirk embodied.

Reflection

Charlie Kirk’s assassination is more than a tragedy—it’s a warning. It signals the erosion of democratic norms, where debate is replaced by bullets, and disagreement becomes justification for violence. The fact that Kirk was shot while engaging students in open dialogue—his "Prove Me Wrong" tour—makes the act even more sinister.

This moment demands introspection. Political leaders must condemn violence unequivocally. Media must resist sensationalism. Citizens must remember that democracy thrives not on unanimity, but on respectful dissent.

Kirk’s legacy will be debated for years. But his death should unite Americans around one truth: no ideology warrants assassination. If democracy is to endure, it must be defended not just in policy—but in principle.

AI in Motion: From Newsrooms in Asia to Driverless Streets in Europe

 Asia, AI has evolved from a backend tool to a frontline communicator. Newsrooms across the region are now deploying AI-driven intelligent agents to read, curate, and even present news stories.

 Key Developments:

- Singapore & South Korea: AI anchors are now delivering live news bulletins. These avatars use natural language processing and facial animation to mimic human presenters.

- China: Xinhua News Agency introduced its AI anchor “Xin Xiaomeng,” capable of reading news 24/7 in Mandarin with real-time updates.

Statistics & Impact:

- According to Microsoft’s 2025 Work Trend Index, 53% of APAC leaders are already using AI agents to fully automate workstreams—including news curation and delivery.

- In the APAC AI Outlook 2025 report, 54% of enterprises expect AI to deliver long-term benefits in innovation and revenue generation, with 21% prioritizing customer experience—which includes media consumption.

- AI anchors reduce operational costs by up to 40%, and can deliver multilingual content instantly, making them ideal for diverse audiences.

What Makes It Work:

- AI systems analyze trending topics, verify facts, and generate summaries in seconds.

- They’re trained on massive datasets including historical news archives, social media sentiment, and real-time feeds.

 AI Driving Buses in Europe: The Road to Autonomy

Europe is pioneering Level-4 autonomous public transport, where buses operate without human drivers in complex urban settings.

Real-World Examples:

- Rotterdam, Netherlands: DAM Shuttles now run a 5-km route between Meijersplein and Rotterdam-The Hague Airport using AI-powered buses. These vehicles navigate roundabouts, traffic lights, and pedestrian zones at an average speed of 23 km/h.

- Stavanger, Norway: Vy Buss is testing buses with external Human-Machine Interfaces (eHMI) that communicate with pedestrians and cyclists—no driver needed.

- Geneva, Switzerland: The ULTIMO project is deploying 15 electric driverless minibuses to run 24/7, aiming to reduce congestion and improve off-peak service efficiency.

Statistics & Impact:

- The ULTIMO project has a budget of $60 million and will deploy 45 autonomous buses across Geneva, Kronach, and Oslo by the end of 2025.

- These buses use ADASTEC’s flowride.ai software, capable of handling traffic signals, bus stops, and overtaking scenarios.

- Automation is expected to reduce accidents by up to 90%, cut labor costs, and address Europe’s chronic driver shortage.

Editorial Reflection

Asia’s media landscape is being redefined by AI that doesn’t just assist—it speaks. Meanwhile, Europe’s streets are becoming testbeds for a future where public transport is autonomous, electric, and intelligent.

These aren’t isolated experiments—they’re signals of a global shift. AI is no longer confined to labs or apps. It’s reading your morning headlines and steering your evening commute.

Nigeria’s Foreign Policy in the Tinubu Era: Global Ambitions, Local Realities

Over the past three years, Nigeria has recalibrated its foreign policy posture, embracing a more assertive and strategic role on the global stage. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the country has pursued a “4-D foreign policy” framework—Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Dialogue—to reposition itself as a regional leader and global partner.

🌍 Diplomatic Engagements & Strategic Alliances

1. Strengthening Ties with Global Powers

- United Kingdom: In September 2024, President Tinubu met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, reaffirming the historic and strategic relationship between Nigeria and the UK.

- France: A state visit in late 2024 saw Tinubu hosted by President Emmanuel Macron. The visit was pivotal as France seeks to maintain influence in West Africa amid ECOWAS transitions.

- Saudi Arabia: At the Arab-Islamic Summit in November 2024, Nigeria secured Saudi support for economic reforms and explored cooperation in oil, agriculture, and infrastructure.

2. South-South Cooperation

- Brazil: Nigeria participated in the G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, endorsing the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. Tinubu advocated for UN Security Council reform to better represent Africa.

- South Africa: In December 2024, Nigeria co-chaired the 11th Bi-National Commission with South Africa, signing MoUs across eight sectors including defence, trade, and energy.

📈 Economic Diplomacy & Developmental Gains

1. IMF Engagement

- Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, driven by increased hydrocarbon output and a vibrant services sector.

- The IMF praised Nigeria’s reforms in foreign exchange markets, which stabilized the naira and boosted portfolio inflows.

- Inflation dropped from 31% in 2024 to 23.7% in April 2025, aided by tighter monetary policy and improved food production.

2. UNHCR Partnership

- Nigeria’s collaboration with UNHCR from 2023–2025 focused on refugee protection, climate displacement, and humanitarian resilience, aligning with global governance and risk management frameworks.

🛡️ Regional Leadership & ECOWAS Dynamics

Nigeria’s leadership in ECOWAS has been tested by political instability in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. In response:

- ECOWAS approved a transitional withdrawal period for these countries from January to July 2025, with Nigeria advocating for continued diplomatic dialogue.

- Nigeria’s peacekeeping and mediation efforts have reinforced its role as a stabilizing force in West Africa.

✈️ Diaspora Diplomacy

President Tinubu’s outreach to Nigerians abroad—especially in China and the UK—has emphasized the role of the diaspora in national development. His message: “One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hand to build our nation”.

🧭 Editorial Reflection

Nigeria’s foreign policy from 2023 to 2025 reflects a deliberate pivot from reactive diplomacy to proactive global engagement. By leveraging strategic partnerships, economic reforms, and regional leadership, Nigeria is not only reclaiming its voice in international affairs but also laying the groundwork for sustainable development and geopolitical relevance.

🇳🇬 Nigeria’s Foreign Policy: Domestic Perception & Challenges (2023–2025)  

While Nigeria’s international relations have gained momentum, the domestic reception of its foreign policy has been a mix of cautious optimism and critical scrutiny. Beneath the diplomatic handshakes and summit speeches lies a deeper tension: how do these global engagements translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians?

🧭 Public Sentiment: Aspirations vs. Reality

1. Economic Expectations

- Many Nigerians hoped that foreign policy would catalyze economic growth, especially through trade deals and foreign direct investment. While GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, inflation remained high at 31%, only easing to 23.7% by mid-2025, leaving many citizens unconvinced of the real impact.

- The naira’s stabilization and increased portfolio inflows were praised by economists, but everyday Nigerians still grappled with high food prices and limited job creation.

2. Security Concerns

- Nigeria’s leadership in ECOWAS, especially its stance against military coups in Niger and Burkina Faso, was seen as bold and principled. However, critics argue that regional peacekeeping efforts diverted attention and resources from domestic insecurity, particularly in the North-East and Middle Belt.

3. Anti-Corruption & Governance

- Tinubu’s administration pledged to align with global anti-corruption frameworks, but skepticism remains. Civil society groups have called for more transparency in foreign aid utilization and international loan agreements.

🧠 Intellectual & Academic Perspectives

Scholars and policy analysts have emphasized that Nigeria’s foreign policy is shaped by a complex interplay of:

- Historical legacies (e.g., colonial ties with the UK and Commonwealth)  

- Geopolitical ambitions (as a regional power in ECOWAS and AU)  

- Economic dependencies (especially on crude oil exports)  

- Domestic pressures (like insurgency, democratic transitions, and public opinion)

A comparative study from 2011 to 2023 found that while foreign policy contributed to regional integration and international standing, it also exposed Nigeria’s vulnerabilities—such as institutional weaknesses and over-reliance on oil revenue.

🗣️ Civil Society & Diaspora Voices

- The Nigerian diaspora has become increasingly vocal, urging the government to ensure that foreign policy reflects the needs of citizens abroad—especially regarding consular services, dual citizenship rights, and diaspora investment incentives.

- Youth-led movements within Nigeria have demanded that foreign policy be more inclusive, transparent, and development-focused.

✍️ Editorial Reflection

Nigeria’s foreign policy in the last three years has been ambitious, outward-looking, and diplomatically active. But the domestic reception reveals a critical gap: global prestige must be matched by local progress. The challenge for the Tinubu administration—and future governments—is to ensure that foreign engagements yield measurable improvements in security, governance, and economic well-being.

In essence, Nigeria’s foreign policy must not only speak to the world—it must also listen to its people.

President Tinubu’s Nigeria: Reform, Resistance, and the Road Ahead

When Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, he promised a new era of bold reforms and economic revitalization. Two years in, the results are mixed—and Nigerians are feeling the weight of both ambition and adversity.

💸 Economic Reforms: Shock Therapy or Strategic Misfire?

One of Tinubu’s first acts was the removal of fuel subsidies—a move hailed by economists but felt painfully by ordinary Nigerians. Fuel prices skyrocketed from ₦185/litre to over ₦617/litre within months, triggering inflation that peaked at 29.9% in early 2024.

- Naira Devaluation: The Central Bank’s shift to a floating exchange rate saw the naira plunge from ₦460/$1 to over ₦1,300/$1.

- GDP Growth: Nigeria’s GDP grew at a modest 2.8% in 2024, below the African average.

- Unemployment: Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high at over 40%, despite promises of job creation.

While Tinubu’s team argues these reforms are necessary for long-term stability, the short-term pain has been severe. The informal sector—where over 80% of Nigerians earn their living—has been hit hardest.

🏛️ Governance and Structural Bottlenecks

Critics argue that Tinubu’s government has failed to address Nigeria’s deeper structural issues. According to legal analyst Olisa Agbakoba, 90% of Nigeria’s governance architecture is dysfunctional, with local governments acting as mere conduits for federal allocations rather than engines of development.

- Centralization: Power remains heavily concentrated in Abuja, stifling innovation and regional autonomy.

- Bureaucracy: Red tape continues to choke private sector growth, with SMEs citing delays in registration, taxation, and access to credit.

📉 Social Programs and Public Sentiment

Despite launching initiatives like the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer, many Nigerians feel left behind. The program reached only 3 million households, far short of the 133 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty.

Public protests erupted in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt over rising costs and perceived government insensitivity. Tinubu’s response? A mix of defiance and recalibration—firing five ministers in a cabinet shake-up and pledging more inclusive policies.

🛠️ Infrastructure and Energy

On the brighter side, Tinubu has made strides in energy reform:

- Electricity Act 2023: Decentralized power generation, allowing states to license their own providers.

- Gas Infrastructure Projects: Renewed focus on gas pipelines and modular refineries.

Yet, power supply remains erratic, and over 60% of Nigerians still lack reliable electricity.

🧭 Final Thoughts: Reforming from the Top, or Repeating the Cycle?

President Tinubu’s administration is a study in contrasts—bold reforms paired with fragile execution. While some applaud his willingness to tackle entrenched problems, others argue that without structural political reform, economic policies will continue to yield suboptimal results.

The road ahead is steep. But if Tinubu can pivot from top-down governance to grassroots empowerment, he might yet reshape Nigeria’s trajectory.

🔐 Security Under Siege: Tinubu’s Struggle to Protect Nigerians

Despite bold campaign promises and increased military spending, President Tinubu’s administration has struggled to contain Nigeria’s deepening security crisis. From banditry in the North West to separatist tensions in the South East, violence remains widespread—and in some areas, it’s getting worse.

📊 The Numbers Tell a Grim Story

- Global Peace Index 2024: Nigeria ranked 147th out of 163 countries globally, and 38th out of 44 in Africa, reflecting persistent instability.

- Casualties and Abductions: In the first six weeks of Tinubu’s presidency alone, 555 Nigerians were killed and 267 abducted in violent attacks.

- Benue State Massacres: In April 2025, coordinated raids in Ukum and Logo LGAs left 69 people dead, with dozens more displaced.

- FCT Bandit Attacks: Even Abuja, the nation’s capital, has seen residents fleeing their homes due to rising kidnappings and bandit activity.

🧨 Unfulfilled Promises and Tactical Gaps

During the 2022 campaign, Vice President Kashim Shettima vowed to “lead troops to battle,” promising a hands-on approach to security. Yet nearly two years into their tenure, those pledges remain largely unfulfilled.

While the government touts the neutralization of 543 violent criminals, the arrest of 17,469 suspects, and the rescue of 9,821 hostages, these efforts have not translated into lasting peace. Many rural communities remain under siege, and displaced persons are slow to return home.

🗺️ Regional Flashpoints

- North East: Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to operate in pockets, despite military gains in Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad Basin.

- North West: Banditry remains rampant. In Zamfara and Kaduna alone, 11,250 hostages were rescued, but attacks persist.

- South East: Separatist violence and clashes with security forces have escalated, with frequent sit-at-home orders paralyzing economic activity.

- Niger Delta: Oil theft and sabotage have declined, but tensions over resource control and environmental degradation linger.

🧠 Strategic Missteps and Structural Weaknesses

Security experts argue that Tinubu’s approach has been overly centralized and reactive. The lack of coordination between federal and state governments, coupled with underfunded local policing, has left many communities vulnerable.

The introduction of the “Kaduna Model” for peacebuilding—where 35 warlords surrendered—is promising, but not yet replicated nationwide.

🧭 Conclusion: Reforming Security or Managing Decline?

President Tinubu’s security strategy has produced isolated successes but lacks the coherence and scale needed to reverse Nigeria’s descent into violence. Without deeper reforms—especially in local governance, intelligence sharing, and community engagement—the cycle of insecurity may continue to undermine national development.

Resistant Bacteria Rising: Humanity’s Dual Arsenal of Belief and Biology

In an age where science has mapped the human genome and sent probes beyond our solar system, one of the most formidable threats to global health is microscopic: antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These pathogens, once easily subdued by penicillin and its successors, are now evolving faster than our ability to treat them. But as the crisis deepens, a compelling question arises: Can faith and science, often seen as opposites, unite to protect humanity?

🔬 The Scientific Reality: Proven Samples, Proven Threats

The evidence is overwhelming. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur annually in the U.S. alone, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. Globally, the World Bank projects that without intervention, 10 million lives could be lost each year by 2050 due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Scientific studies have identified multiple mechanisms by which bacteria evade antibiotics:

- Efflux pumps that eject drugs before they act.

- Enzymes that degrade antibiotics.

- Genetic mutations that alter drug targets.

- Horizontal gene transfer, allowing resistance to spread across species.

Even remote environments—Arctic birds, isolated water bodies, and rural dogs—have shown traces of resistant strains. This proves that AMR is not just a hospital problem; it’s an ecological one.

🙏 Faith: A Human Response Rooted in Responsibility

While science provides diagnostics and treatments, faith offers a framework for ethical behavior and communal responsibility. Faith-based organizations (FBOs) have long been pillars of healthcare in underserved regions. Their influence can:

- Promote responsible antibiotic use through education.

- Encourage hygiene and sanitation as acts of stewardship.

- Foster trust in medical interventions, especially in vaccine-hesitant communities.

Faith, in this context, is not blind belief—it’s a moral compass guiding human behavior in the face of crisis. It reminds us that healing is not just technical but spiritual, and that caring for creation includes safeguarding microbial balance.

🧠 Science and Faith: Not Opposed, But Complementary

The dichotomy between faith and science is outdated. In truth, both are human responses to uncertainty. Science seeks understanding through evidence; faith seeks meaning through belief. Together, they can:

- Support community-based surveillance of resistant infections.

- Advocate for equitable access to new treatments.

- Inspire global solidarity, recognizing AMR as a shared threat.

As researchers explore novel therapies—like bacteriophage cocktails, nanoparticle antibiotics, and microbiome engineering—faith communities can help ensure these innovations are ethically deployed and widely accepted.

🌍 A Call to Action

The rise of resistant bacteria is a test—not just of our laboratories, but of our humanity. It challenges us to rethink how we live, how we heal, and how we relate to the invisible ecosystems within and around us. By embracing both scientific rigor and spiritual wisdom, we stand a better chance of overcoming this threat.

Let this be the era where faith and science walk hand in hand, not in conflict, but in collaboration—for the sake of every human life. 

🇳🇬 Nigeria’s Underdevelopment: A Nation Rich in Potential, Poor in Progress

Nigeria is a paradox. It is Africa’s most populous country, blessed with vast natural resources, a vibrant youth population, and cultural richness that spans over 500 ethnic groups. Yet, despite over six decades of independence, Nigeria remains underdeveloped—struggling with poverty, weak infrastructure, and systemic dysfunction.

This editorial unpacks the core reasons behind Nigeria’s persistent underdevelopment, with concrete examples from history, court-established cases of political looting, and documented human rights abuses.

 1. Poor Infrastructure and Planning

Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit is staggering. Despite early investments in rail and road networks during colonial times, progress has stalled.

Historical Example: In 1896, Britain began constructing the Lagos–Ibadan railway. It took just two years to complete. By contrast, in 2024, Nigeria still relies on foreign contractors to build and maintain its rail systems.

Current Reality: Roads in many states remain impassable during rainy seasons. Power supply is erratic, and water infrastructure is failing in both urban and rural areas.

Future Implication: Without domestic capacity to build and maintain infrastructure, Nigeria will remain dependent on foreign expertise, draining resources and delaying development.

 2. Corruption and Political Looting

Corruption is arguably Nigeria’s most corrosive challenge. Billions of naira meant for education, healthcare, and infrastructure are siphoned off annually.

Historical Example: The $16 billion power sector scandal under the Obasanjo administration (1999–2007) left Nigeria with less than 4,000 megawatts of electricity despite massive investment.

Court-Established Looting:

 In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the governments of former presidents Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and Buhari to disclose how they spent over $5 billion in recovered Abacha loot. The judgment exposed decades of opacity in managing repatriated funds meant for development.

A suit filed by the 36 state governments revealed that between 2015 and 2021, over ₦1.8 trillion in recovered assets—including 167 properties, 450 cars, and 20 million barrels of crude oil—were allegedly diverted into unauthorized accounts, bypassing the constitutionally mandated Federation Account.

Future Implication: Without transparency and accountability, foreign investors will remain wary, and domestic industries will struggle to thrive. Development funds will continue to vanish into private pockets.

3. Brain Drain and Weak Education Systems

Nigeria’s brightest minds are leaving. Doctors, engineers, and academics are migrating to countries with better opportunities and working conditions.

Example: In 2023 alone, over 5,600 Nigerian-trained doctors applied for licenses to practice in the UK and Canada.

Education Crisis: Public universities face frequent strikes, outdated curricula, and underfunding. Students graduate without practical skills, and many seek education abroad.

Future Implication: If Nigeria cannot retain talent or reform its education system, innovation and productivity will stagnate.

 4. Ethnic and Religious Divisions

Nigeria’s diversity should be its strength—but it’s often weaponized. Tribalism and religious bias influence elections, policymaking, and resource allocation.

Example: Political appointments are frequently made based on ethnicity rather than merit. This fuels regional resentment and undermines national unity.

Future Implication: Without elite consensus and inclusive governance, Nigeria will remain fragmented, making coordinated development nearly impossible

 5. Economic Dependence on Oil

Nigeria’s economy is dangerously reliant on crude oil, which accounts for over 85% of export earnings. This makes the country vulnerable to global price shocks.

Historical Example: The 2014 oil crash plunged Nigeria into recession, exposing the fragility of its mono-economy.

Current Reality: Agriculture and manufacturing remain underdeveloped, despite their potential to create jobs and reduce poverty.

Future Implication: Without aggressive diversification, Nigeria’s economy will remain unstable and unable to meet the needs of its growing population.

6. Established Human Rights Abuses

Nigeria’s underdevelopment is also fueled by systemic human rights violations—many of which have been documented and confirmed by courts and international watchdogs.

Documented Abuses:

The 2024 U.S. Human Rights Report on Nigeria cited credible evidence of arbitrary killings, torture, and unlawful detentions by security forces. Protesters, journalists, and activists were targeted, especially during demonstrations like #EndBadGovernance.

- In August 2024, Amnesty International reported that police killed at least 24 persons during peaceful protests. A 16-year-old boy was shot in Zaria; one soldier was arrested, but no convictions followed.

- As of late 2023, 15 protesters from the 2020 #EndSARS movement remained in detention without trial, violating their constitutional rights to liberty and fair hearing.

Constitutional Violations:  

Chapter IV of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution guarantees rights to life, dignity, liberty, expression, and peaceful assembly. Yet, enforcement remains weak, and judicial decisions are often ignored or delayed.

Future Implication: When citizens lose faith in justice, development stalls. Human rights violations erode trust in institutions, discourage civic participation, and fuel unrest.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

Nigeria’s underdevelopment is not inevitable—it’s a result of choices, systems, and missed opportunities. But the future is not written in stone. With visionary leadership, grassroots accountability, judicial reform, and strategic investment in education, infrastructure, and unity, Nigeria can rewrite its story.

The question is not whether Nigeria has the potential to rise—it’s whether it will choose to.

🧠 Mental Health and Drug Addiction: Nigeria’s Silent War

In the quiet corners of homes, on bustling city streets, and behind the closed doors of rehab centers, a silent war is raging. It’s not just about drugs—it’s about pain, isolation, and the desperate search for relief. Mental health and drug addiction are no longer separate crises. They are intertwined, feeding off each other in a cycle that devastates lives and communities.

 The Dual Epidemic: When the Mind and Substances Collide

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, nearly 38.6% of illegal drug users have a diagnosable drug disorder. Even more alarming, 51.9% of adults with serious mental illness (SMI) report using illicit drugs—more than double the rate of those without mental illness. This isn’t just coincidence. It’s a reflection of how untreated mental health issues often lead people to self-medicate with substances, and how addiction worsens mental health in return.

In Nigeria, the 2018 National Drug Use Survey revealed that 14.4% of Nigerians aged 15–64 had used drugs non-medically—nearly three times the global average of 5.5%. That’s over 14 million people, many of whom are battling depression, anxiety, trauma, or economic hardship.

 What Science Is Telling Us

Modern research is helping us understand the biological and psychological roots of addiction:

- Brain Chemistry and Hijacked Reward Systems  

  A study published in Science showed how drugs like cocaine and opioids flood the brain with dopamine, rewiring it to prioritize drug use over natural rewards like relationships, achievements, or even survival.

- MRI Scans and Opioid Use  

  Yale researchers found that individuals with opioid use disorder had reduced brain volume in areas responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making. This helps explain why addiction often feels like losing control over one’s own thoughts and actions.

- Early Exposure Risks  

  People who try illegal drugs before age 15 are 6.5 times more likely to develop a substance use disorder than those who wait until age 21 or later. This highlights the urgent need for early intervention and education.

 Real Lives, Real Struggles

Take Ayo, a 27-year-old from Ogun State. After losing his job during the pandemic, he turned to codeine to manage his anxiety. What began as a sleep aid spiraled into daily dependence. His story mirrors thousands across Nigeria—where economic hardship, stigma, and lack of mental health infrastructure fuel the addiction cycle.

In urban centers like Lagos and Abuja, rehab centers are overwhelmed. In rural areas like Otta, access to mental health care is limited, and many suffer in silence.

 What Authorities Are Doing to Curb Addiction

Thankfully, the Nigerian government and global partners are stepping up:

National Drug Control Master Plan (2021–2025)

Developed with support from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union, this plan outlines a national strategy to reduce drug abuse through:

- Evidence-based interventions targeting youth and vulnerable populations

- Integration of drug education into school curricula

- Expansion of rehabilitation services and community outreach

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Pilot Program

The Federal Ministry of Health, in partnership with UNODC and WHO, has launched MAT programs in selected states. These combine medication (like methadone) with counseling and behavioral therapy. Early results show improved recovery rates and reduced relapse.

 2025 World Drug Day Campaign: “The Evidence is Clear—Invest in Prevention!”

In June 2025, Nigeria hosted a national summit to rally stakeholders around prevention. The campaign emphasized:

- Youth-focused programs

- Mobilization of religious and community leaders

- Collaboration with media to reduce stigma

NDLEA Enforcement and Education

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) continues to crack down on trafficking while investing in public education. In 2024 alone:

- Over 1,000 metric tons of illicit substances were seized

- More than 500 school sensitization programs were conducted nationwide

🤝 Community and NGO Partnerships

Grassroots organizations like Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) and Drug-Free Nigeria are leading the charge with:

- Peer counseling and helplines

- Awareness walks and school talks

- Mental health first aid training

What Still Needs to Change

Despite progress, challenges remain:

- Access to Care: Mental health services are still scarce in many regions. Ogun State, for example, has limited public psychiatric facilities.

- Stigma: Many Nigerians still view addiction as a moral failure rather than a health issue.

- Funding: NGOs and community programs need sustained financial support to scale their impact.

 Final Thoughts: Healing Is Possible

Mental health and drug addiction are two sides of the same coin. And like any coin, they spin unpredictably—until someone reaches out and stops the cycle. Whether you’re a policymaker, a parent, a teacher, or someone quietly struggling, the message is clear:

Healing is possible. But only if we stop fighting alone.