RAILWAY TRANSPORTATION

The effective utilization of the Nigerian rail transportation system has been said to be an impetus to the socio economic development of the nation Nigeria.
In today's news analysis correspondent examines the need for stakeholders to revive the rail transportation system in the country in line with global standard.
Rail transportation is a means of transporting people, goods and services on wheeled vehicles running on rail, also known as tracks, from one point to another.
Rail transportation is one of the oldest means of transportation in the world.
In Nigeria during the colonial era and after independence, rail transportation was effectively used to transport human beings as well as goods and services from one part of the country to the other.
Today the railway system in Nigeria has become dysfunctional, no thanks to political instability and high level of financial corruption.
However in the latter part of the Jonathan administration, some steps were taken towards reviving the nation's railway system, while the Buhari administration has gone further to consolidate on the Dr Jonathan's initiative.
Countries such as Great Britain, Russia, Holland, France, China, Japan, and South Africa amongst others all effectively utilize their railway systems with positive multiplier effects on their various economies.
Nigeria needs to copy these lofty examples by building more train stations and constructing more rail tracks to more parts of the country.
No doubt rail transportation has proven to be one of the safest and cheapest means of transporting goods and services for a long distances.
Furthermore rail transportation also helps to minimize traffic congestion and pressure on the roads, thereby reducing the rate of motor accident and increasing the life span of Nigeria roads.
The ease of doing business as championed by the Federal Government, through it's economic policy will receive a boost when the country's rail transport system is revamped and effectively utilized.
If the Federal Government is sincere about it's efforts at boosting mass transit in the country, then more resources should be deployed towards revamping the rail transportation sub sector.

TECHNICAL AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Over the years, the Nigerian Labour Market has been characterized by increasing number of unemployed youths who roam the streets in search of one job or the other.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the use of vocational, technical and entrepreneurship education to help reduce the high unemployment rate in Nigeria.

EMBER MONTHS

The period between September 1 to December 31 every year is usually referred to as ember months.
This segment of the year is mostly characterized by anxieties such as how to raise funds to celebrate the Xmas and New Year, as well as how to meet up other expenses thereby pushing many people to get involved in all sorts of nefarious activities.
In today's news analysis correspondent writes on how to prepare for the ember months to avoid stress and tension during the period.
The ember months are September, October, November and December.
These months are mostly characterized by all sorts of events and increased rate of social vices.
Some religious bodies usually organized different prayer programmes to avert death and other calamities during the ember months.
In ember months, public and private schools open for the new academic session from September and end the first academic term in December.
Most parents and guardians during these months are so anxious to pay their children's school fees, buy Christmas and New Year clothes, as well as raise money to meet other needs such as buying of gift items for in laws and friends.
Transporters during these months tend to be in a hurry to cover most trips so as to make more money thereby indulging in over speeding which often leads to accidents and deaths.
In ember months, most youths try to please their female friends and sometimes pushing them into stealing and other crimes.
Some of them want quick money with which to enjoy the Christmas but sometimes terminated their lives by being killed or when caught they are imprisoned.
What many people fails to understand is that ember months require adequate planning, budgeting and hard work, so that goals and aspirations can be actualized.
Therefore parents and guardians should endeavour to budget and plan for their children' s school fees, as well as cut their coats according to their available materials rather than incurring debts to celebrate Xmas or New Year, because life continues after the yuletide.
Furthermore, commercial drivers should make sure that their vehicles are in good conditions and also avoid over speeding which leads to loss of lives and property.
Young men who are in relationships with the opposite sex should be engaged in productive ventures, rather than being idle and looking for free money by committing crimes.
The Nigerian Police and other security agencies should come up with more proactive measures in curtailing crimes and social vices and also beef up security in the nooks and crannies of the society.
Road safety officials should intensify their efforts at preventing road accidents during the ember months.
All stakeholders should contribute their respective quotas to ensure that the ember months are stress free, accident free and crime free

NAIRA NOTES ABUSE

The daily abuse of the Nigerian Naira has become worrisome, thereby necessitating urgent steps to be taken towards ensuring respect for the Nigerian National Currency.
In today's news analysis correspondent examines ways by which some Nigerians have abuse naira notes vis a vis measures to put in place to prevent the abuse of the naira.
Money as a legal tender, is a currency that is generally accepted as a medium of exchange or means of payment.
Apart from being a means of transacting business, the currency of a country is also a national symbol.
Nigeria as a country make use of the naira as her currency.
In the past, the Nigerian naira used to compete favourably with foreign currencies such as the U S Dollars, Euro, Pounds.
The Nigerian naira also in those days was highly valued and respected.
But today however, the story is different, as Nigerians themselves are the ones abusing the naira at events such as marriages, birthday parties, burial ceremonies, or even political gatherings by throwing naira notes in the air, as a way to show off or you honour a celebrant.
Money vendors now go to social events where they hawk the naira notes in different denominations openly for invitees or guests to buy and throw in the air or on the body of the celebrant.
This money being throw around in parties or events, are being trampled upon by dancers.
But this practice is not obtainable in developed countries, as one hardly see a Briton, an American or a French citizen debasing the U S Dollar, Euro and Pound the way Nigerians abuse the naira in public.
Furthermore, some Nigerian traders, transporters, and other Nigerians rough handle or squeeze naira notes when transacting businesses or even when giving offering in places of worship.
To address this ugly trend therefore, the Federal Government through the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN, should put measures in place to prevent the abuse of the naira.
Penalties should also be spelt out for those hawking naira notes at social events and for those throwing the naira in public places.
Nigerians must learn how to package their naira notes neatly in their wallets, pockets or purges.
Those Nigerians who are of the habit of throwing the naira notes in parties or events should refrain from it.
They should learn how to neatly package their naira notes in an envelop or present the naira notes by hand to the celebrant, thereby preventing the naira notes from being trampled upon by dancers.
Taxi drivers, traders and other Nigerians involved in one form of business or the other, should learn how to arrange their naira notes properly in their hands or pockets.
Bankers who are in the habit of selling naira notes to money vendors for them to hawk in public places, should stop it or be made to face the wrath of the law.
The State Assemblies and the National Assembly should rise up to the occasion by legislating against the abuse of the naira notes.
Local Government Chairmen, State Governors, and the Presidency should come up with policy statements that will help to criminalize the abuse of the naira.
Enough is enough to naira notes abuse in the country.
Be warned.

Eid El Kabir

Eid El Kabir a Muslim festival known as the feast of sacrifice is celebrated by Muslims faithful all over the world.
Correspondent in today's news analysis underscores the significance of Eid El Kabir  celebration to the Muslims communities and Nigeria as a Nation.
The Holy Quran defined Eid El Kabir as the celebration of Ibrahim willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael on the mount of Moriah, as a sign of obedience and devotion to Allah.
Eid El Kabir also known as Eid al Adha is therefore a festival or feast of sacrifice.
It is the second of the two Muslim festivals celebrated worldwide every year and it is considered the holier of the two.
Eid El Kabir honored the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael, as an act of obedience to Allah's command, before Allah's intervention by sending his Angel to provide a ram in exchange for Ishmael for the sacrifice to Allah.
The celebration is observed by Muslims worldwide to render service to Allah the merciful.
The date of the celebration varies in accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar.
It falls on the tenth day of the twelve month known as Dhul Hijja.
In Nigeria and other part of the world, it is customary for the government to declare a national public holiday, so as to avail Muslim faithful the opportunity to celebrate the feast.
The festival usually begins with prayers in various praying grounds, which is followed by exchange of food and gifts as well as visit to love ones, family get together among others.
Muslims are also expected to give alms to the less privileged to enable them take part in the celebration and also to have a sense of belonging.
Muslim Worshipers are expected to slaughter animals that have blemishes, as a sign of purity towards Allah, as was exemplified by Ibrahim in the Holy Quran.
The meat of the sacrifice animal are shared into three parts, with the family retaining one part, the second part goes to relatives, friends and neighbors and the third part goes to the poor or needies in the society.
As Muslims in Delta State, Nigeria and the rest of the world celebrate Eid El Kabir it is expected that they should emulate the habit of complete submission to God and the law as demonstrated by Ibrahim in the Holy Quran's account.
It is also expected that Muslims should show love not only to their fellow Muslims but to Nigerians of other religions, which will help go a long way to enhance national unity and religion tolerance.
True Muslims should use the occasion to condemn Islamic extremists by Boko Haram insurgency,armed bandits among other vices in parts of the country.
Eid El Kabir should be used to condemn corruption that has post the most singular threat to national growth and development.
Muslims in position of authorities at all levels government as well as those heading different sectors of the nation's economy should shun fraudulent acts and figures manipulation practices, so that Nigeria can move forward.
All Nigerians irrespective of their religion affiliation should learn how to rejoice with their Muslims neighbors.
That way Nigeria will not only be a geographical entity but indeed a nation of one people with common history.

Political Thuggery

Electoral violence in Nigeria is perpetrated mostly by political thugs, most of whom are youths who allowed themselves to be used by greedy politicians.
In today's news analysis correspondent writes on the need for Nigerian youths to refrain from being used as political thugs to destabilize the nation's electoral process.
Since Nigeria's independence, the nation's electoral process has been characterized by violence,assassination,cancellation of election results and many other crimes.
Most of those used in perpetrating electoral violence in the country are youths who are full of energy and strength, as well as ample resources and smart thinking, which if utilized can bring about societal growth and advancement.
But why are some Nigerian youths not using their youthful potentials and resources to contribute meaningfully to nation building and why do they allow selfish politicians to manipulate them to cause havoc?.
In most of the political disturbances,it is the youths who usually suffer and sometimes die in the process, others are physically deformed, while their political masters run into hiding to foreign lands with their children and sometimes family members.
Political analysts have traced youths involvement in electoral violence to illiteracy, greed and poverty amongst other social indices.
Surprisingly most selfish politicians during their youthful ages held one political position or the other and they still hold on to power even at their old ages.
The practice of using Nigerian youths to forment trouble, kill political opponents, distort the electoral process, snatch ballot boxes amongst other is highly condemnable.
The popular saying that youths are the leaders of tomorrow is gradually losing relevance, due to the non preparedness of some youths in taking up leadership responsibilities.
The way forward is to eradicate political violence in Nigeria by training illiterate Nigerian youths to acquire knowledge and useful skills to enable them contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Nigerian society.
Nigerian youths who could not acquire education due to one reason or another, should strive to acquire skills that will make them self employed, employers of labor, productive and busy, thereby leaving no room for an idle mind that will be possessed by the devil.
Nigerian youths who are aides to politicians should be bold to tell their political masters to use their own children or family members to perpetrate political violence instead.
The youths of Nigeria, should see themselves as too important to be used as political thugs in the hands of politicians.
They should see themselves as change agents who have all it takes to drive the nation's economy on the path of sustainable growth and development.
Nigerian youths should view election period as a time to vote out politicians who have not delivered on their campaign promises to the people, rather than being used and dumped after elections.
With the signing into law of the not too young to run bill, Nigerian youths should aspire towards political elective positions and refrain from being used as political thugs.
The time for Nigerian youths to say no to political violence and thuggery is now.

Ramadan

Ramadan is an Islamic festival known as the month of fasting.
It is used to commemorate the first revelation of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad according to Islamic belief.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the significance of Ramadan to the Muslim communities and the Nigerian society at large.
Ramadan which is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar is seen as the most precious of all in which it is obligatory for all Muslims faithful from across the world engaged in fasting.
Ramadan is the fifth pillar of Islam.
The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramida or ramad, which means scorching heat or dryness.
During the month of Ramadan, fasting is compulsory for all adult Muslims, except those who are ill, the elderly, travellers, pregnant women, breast feeding mothers, women in their monthly periods as well as diabete patients.
It is expected that Muslims who fast in Ramadan from dawn to dusk, are expected to refrain from from eating, drinking, engaging in sexual acts as well as telling lies, backbiting, cursing and fighting, except for self defence.
The Muslims believe that spiritual rewards for fasting are multiplied within the month of Ramadan.
It is mandatory for all Muslims during Ramadan to offer prayers to Allah for themselves, their families, neighbors, Islam itself, their leaders, the nation among others.
In Ramadan month, Muslim faithful are also required to recite and study the Holy Quran as well as give charity to those in need in the society.
There is the strong belief that in the month of Ramadan, also known as the holy month, the gate of paradise are open while those to hell are closed with the Devil being locked up in chains.
The sighting of the moon, commence the Eid al Fitr celebration, thereby marking the end of Ramadan fast but if no visual sighting is possible due to weather conditions, the fasting continues until the full moon is sighted.
Eid al Fitr celebration is also a way to commend Moslems for ensuring the month of fasting successfully and returning to their normal life of eating and drinking and also to engage in romance with their spouses.
As Muslims from across the world celebrate Eid al Fitr, they should not forget the lessons and teaches of Ramadan that they got during the period.
The lessons should be reflected in their day to day activities, as they strive for righteousness and desist from sinful acts.
Muslims in high position of authorities in politics or private sectors and even heads of families, should adhere to the teachings of contentment, refrain from usurping the belongings of others and corrupt practices.
Muslim cleric, Imams, Mallams and even Islamic scholars should always preach the message of peace and tolerance in the mosque or Islamic gatherings, because no nation can develop in a rancorouse atmosphere.
Nigerians irrespective of their diverse religions should rejoice with their Muslims neighbors as they observe Eid al Fitr.
That way Nigeria will not be a state of religious conflicts but a geographical entity where religious sentiments are put aside for overall growth and development of the country.

Democracy Day

Today May 29,is observed as Democracy Day in Nigeria.
It is a day set aside to commemorate the restoration of Democratic rule in Nigeria from Military rule.
In today's news analysis correspondent chronicles the journey of democracy in Nigeria vis-a-vis the way forward in advancing democracy in Nigeria.
A one time President of the United States of America, Abraham Lincoln, once defined Democracy as a Government of the people by the people and for the people.
Some other school of thought, also added that Democracy is about good Governance with strict adherence to the rule of law and the constitution as well as better welfare package for the people, that is secure through due process of the land, in which the people are the prime consideration of policies.
The struggle for Democracy in Nigeria has been a long one, dating back into the Colonial era where Students, workers, market men and women, some traditional rulers,as well as leading political figures, including the media, were involved in the process, which later contributed to the attainment of Independence on October 1 1960 and a republic in 1963.
Nigeria as an heterogeneous nation with diverse ethnic groups, and different religions gained her Independence from her colonial master, there by putting an end to colonialism,imperialism,therefore paving way for democratic rule in the country.
After the attainment of Independence Nigeria was greeted with corruption by some politicians and civil servants, election manipulation of all kinds, tribalism, nepotism among others brought about instability and pave way for the first coup in 1966 which was followed by another coup in that same year and led to three years civil war in the country.
Democracy was briefly restorted in 1979 - 1983,but some certain factors such as electoral manipulation, corrupt politicians among others brought about the Military rule and was followed by series of Military Juntas.
The dreaded of all the Military rule was that of General Sani Abacha and was ended by his sudden death in 1998 and his successor General Abdulsalam Abubakar promised a transition to Democracy and accordly a new constitution was adopted in May 5 1999, elections were held and retired General Olusegun Obasanjo who has previously govern Nigeria as a Military ruler was elected president.
No doubt the end of Military rule in 1999 has brought about an era of regular elections, as well as the return of civil liberties, free press and an end to arbitrary arrest and torture, but that is not to say that Human Rights are not violated occasionally.
With the smooth transition of one government to the other in Nigeria, one can say that Democracy is growing but there are more to be done.
Nigeria Politicians should learn to practice politics of ideology and not  politics of self interest, that sometimes over heat the politic of the country.
Political parties,politicians and their supporters should emulate the virtues of Democracy which was copied from the western world by refraining from election violence, election manipulation, killing of opposition members, damaging of electoral materials and sometimes destruction of property worth millions of naira.
Politicians should also learn to concede defeat and stop litigation that most times slow governance but rather they should join hands with the winning party to bring developed to the land.
Every Nigerian irrespective of political affiliation or not, must allow Democracy to grow by avoiding act and things that will undermine Democracy in Nigeria.
The electoral umpire which is INEC, should be made to be more independent and INEC also should advance on the electronic voting system, as well as ensure that votes of electorates counts.
Political office holders elected to serve by bringing the dividence of Democracy to the people, should give qualitative representation and not engage in embezzlement of the nation's treasury. Furthermore,Democracy Day should not only be seen as a day of celebration but rather a day for a clarion call to all Nigerians to reflect on the gains of Democracy and so work towards achieving true Democracy in Nigeria, that will serve as model for other African countries to emulate.
Nigeria being referred to as the giant of Africa should demonstrate it by ensuring that Democracy strive and you and I have a duty to play.

Children's Day

May 27 every year is celebrated as children's day in Nigeria.
It is a day set aside by the Nigerian government to celebrate the Nigerian child, as well as to draw attention of the society towards the plight of children in the Nigerian society.
In today's news analysis, correspondent chronicles the journey of children's day celebration vis a vis the significance of the celebration to the Nigerian child.
Children's Day is a day recognized to celebrate children and also the day is celebrated on different calendar dates in different countries.
History has it that the pastor of the Universalist church of the Redeemer in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Rev Dr Charles Leonard celebrated the first children's day on the second Sunday of June 1855.
Dr Leonard held a special service on that day for the children and he named the day ROSE Day, although it was later named Flower Sunday and then children's day.
But the declaration of the day as a national holiday was first proclaimed by the Republic of Turkey on April 23 1929.
Irrespective of the different dates and accounts of children's day, it is pertinent to note that in August 1925, some 54 representatives from different countries gathered together in Geneva, Switzerland to convene the first world conference for the well-being of children, during which the Geneva Declaration Protecting Children was passed.
The proclamation made a strong appeal for the spiritual needs of children, relief for poor children, prevention of child's labour, reassessing the way that children are educated and other issues related to the welfare of children around the world.
After the conference, various government from around the world designated a day to be celebrated as children's day, as a way to encourage and bring joy to children as well as to draw the attention of the society to children issues.
However, Universal children's day is on November 20 ,as first proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954 with the aim to encourage all countries to institute a date, firstly to promote mutual exchange and understanding among children and secondly to initiate action to benefit and promote the welfare of children around the world.
The Nigerian government on its part, set out May 27 every year for Children's Day.
On this day, public and private schools goes to open fields or stadium to participate in match pass and other activities, with officials from the ministry of education on ground to witness the occasion.
Some parents and guardians, takes their kids and wards to recreational centers, amusement parks and eatries to celebrate them.
Wives of political office holders, well to do individuals in the society and some religious bodies organizes parties for children, especially for orphans or the less privileged in the society.
As Nigeria kids from across the federation celebrate today as children's day, government at all levels, parents, guardians, non governmental organizations NGOs that are saddled with the welfare of children amongst other stakeholders, must pay attention to addressing issues that will enhance the overall growth of the Nigerian child who are leaders of tomorrow.
These stakeholders should ensure that child labor, child trafficking, child abuse, illitracy in children amongst others are all address.
Parents and guardians on their parts, should learn how to raise their kids and wards in the fear of God, respect for mankind and also inculcate morals,cultural values and norm.
Places of learning and any centers for impacting knowledge, be it religious or otherwise should at all times always equip the children with requisite information, teaches and skills, they need to become useful to themselves and the society at large.
As it is often believe that there is a seed of greatness in every child but one should know that the seed can only grow when the child is given the right platform to operate and grow.
And the power to make that happen lies between you and I.

FAILED SOCIETY

A society  characterized by all types of social vices has been attributed to broken homes.
In today's news analysis correspondent examines the role of family in shaping the social Landscape of Nigeria.
The family consists of parents and children and classified into nuclear and extended families.
The family is the smallest unit of the society and it is the first agent of human socialization.This is why it is often said that the family is a reflection of the larger society.
The Father is the head of the Family assisted by the mother, who is his help meet in raising the children, instilling moral, ethical and cultural values in the children amongst other duties.
However, it is worrisome to note, that heads of families today are not living up to public expectations, especially in the upbringing of their Children.
Such " I don't Care" parents often leave their children to themselves without parental guide.No wonder Nigerian  Youths are today an endangered species, involved in sorts of crimes and anti-social activities. Parents in contemporary Nigeria Society, appear to be so busy with their kids who are always  in the care of house-help.
This "I don't care" attitude, no doubt, has negative impacts on the children, who sometimes go into themselves,exhibit deviant Characters,or make friends with persons of questionable Characters and negative influence.
Investigations have shown that such Children turn out to be armed robbers,sex workers, fraudsters and school drop-outs, amongst other.
The way forward is for parents, no matter how busy they are, to create time from their busy schedules, and be with their Children to provide leadership.
Parents, whether poor or rich, should strive to provide for their families instead of sitting idle and looking up to their Children for the family up keep.
Non-govermental or Civil Society organizations,saddled with the responsibility of protecting the Welfare of Children, should be proactive by visiting schools to give messages of hope to Children,who suffer from lack of parental care.School teachers and apprenticeship and trainers in workshops should help in identifying Children of this category, with a view to encourage them to look beyond their immediate circumstances.
Furthermore,adults resident in the neighborhood should help to cautiously correct any Child that is going astray as it was in traditional societies.
That way,Nigeria will be a society  devoid of social vices, immorality and crimes, a nation where high ethical and moral values are paramount and a society where everyone's brother's keeper.

May Day

May 1 every year is observed as the International Workers Day or May Day in most countries of the world.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the significance of May Day to Nigerians workers and the Nigerian economy.
International workers day is a day set aside to commemorate the 1886 Hay market affairs in Chicago,USA,where some workers engaged in a strike action to press home their demands.
This incident started the process for the international Labor Day. The first workers day in Nigeria was celebrated in Kano in 1980 as the then Governor Alhaji Abubarkar Rimi declared the day a public
holiday.
In 1981,however, the Federal government declared May 1 as workers day.
Nigerian workers converged on different open fields colorfully dressed in attires depicting their affiliate unions engage in match pass holding their union banners.
Governmental officials, civil society Activists and Human Rights crusaders also joined the Nigerian Labour union to observe the day. The day afford Nigerian workers the opportunity to reflect on the struggle for better working conditions and other  benefits.
On this memorable day Government Officials or their representives,the Nigerian Labour  congress NLC and the Trade Union Congress TUC and the United Labour council of Nigeria as well as Human Rights Activists deliver speech that dwell on workers welfare and well-being.
But how have the Nigerian Workers felt so far?
The Nigerian workers of today are still faced with unconducive working environment,inadequate working materials, poor remuneration,the inability of some States to pay salaries.
Many believes that the Nigerian workers are better off compared with their counterparts in other Climes.
Government and other Labour employers should endeavour to create a conducive working environment where employee can effectively discharge their duties.
Furthermore, the minimum wage of Civil Servants should be reviewed to meet current Economy realities  while workers salaries should be paid as at when due.
Employee, especially Government Workers who use precious working periods to engage in unproductive activities, those who are habitual late or truants should refrain forthwith.
Union Leaders who fight for the welfare and well-being of workers  should be more diplomatic in pressing home their demands and avoid confrontation.
As workers usually say"Solidarity is forever and the struggle continues until workers are better off "

SOURCES OF ENERGY

Nigeria is a country richly endowed with diverse sources of energy which can be used in all spheres of the nation's economy.

However it has been difficult for the nation to maximize these sources of energy for economic growth and development due to some variables.

This forms the basis of today's news analysis written by correspondent on how to maximize Nigeria's sources of energy for optimal economic development.

Since independence in 1960, energy generation and distribution in Nigeria has deteriorated to its present abysmal level.

Past and present administration have made concerted efforts to finding a lasting solution to the epileptic power challenges facing the country but with little or no results.

Many wonder why Nigeria the so called gaint of Africa, still produces bellow capacity, going by its enormous sources of energy.

Whereas other African nations, such as South Africa,Ghana, Egypt, Kenya among others, celebrate years of uninterrupted power supply.

Studies have shown that in a fast growing and modern industrialized world, energy is a major determinate of effective productivity, which also affect all spheres of human endeavors, including health, agriculture, commerce, trade, sports, research, just to mention but a few.

Some schools of thought, have blamed the energy problem in Nigeria, for the challenges facing many industries, small and medium enterprises, leading to pandemic poverty in the country.

The incessant power outage no doubt have resulted in increase crime rates in Nigeria.

Furthermore, the council for renewable energy has disclosed that power outage resulted in an annual lost of about one hundred and twenty six billion naira.

Apart from the huge income lost and high rate of criminality, power cut has also resulted in health hazards due to heat and frequent exposure to carbon emission cause by constant use of electricity generators in different households and business enterprises.

Energy experts have therefore suggested maximum utilization of renewable energy such as sunshine, wind and natural gas among others, which Nigeria has in abundant.

Many countries around the world, have long gone beyond hydro means of generating power into solar, gas turbine, wind mill, for generating electricity for distribution.

It is pertinent to note that while government strive to improve the power situation, the various authorities distributing power in the country should provide Nigerians with prepaid meters to help put an end to estimated billings.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission NERC, should live up to its bidding in checking the excesses of the electricity distribution companies, particularly in term of tariffs.

In addition, electricity consumers should endeavor to pay their bills as at when due, rather than conniving with power distribution staff to invade payment.

Unpatriotic Nigerians who steals or vandalize electricity cable and installation especially meters and transformers should repent and turn a new leaf.

Electricity consumers should manage power supply effectively in their homes and industries by switching off electricity supply when not in use.

Only a multi system approach can adequately put an end to the power problem in the country.  

INTER HOUSE SPORTS

The inability to identify and nurture sports talents from inter house sports competitions has been seen as one of the challenges facing the catch them young maxim in the sports world.
In today's news analysis correspondent writes on the need for education stakeholders, school authorities, government through the ministry of sports and youth development among other relevant bodies to begin to start prioritizing inter house sports as a strategy and platform for grooming young talents that will make the nation, their states and themselves proud in major competitive sports events both at national and international levels.
Every year public and private schools organise inter house sports competitions for their students and pupils.
During such sports meets, students and pupils are beautifully dressed in their different houses colors.
The children participate in various track and field events such as match past, different relay races, filling the bottles, sack race, long jump, high jump among others.
On this day, some sports officials, members of the Nigerian Association Physical And Health Education Recreation NAPHER are always on ground to document records of various games while parents and guardians sit as spectators to watch their kids and wards exhibiting sporty talents they have not seen in them before.
It is a directive from the ministry of education to all schools from across the nation, to organize sporting events to train school children mentally and physically.
However there are calls for a change in the narrative on why inter house sports are organized, so that inter house sports can be used to discover and develop sports talents that will make the state, and indeed the nation proud in the future.
Sports analysts have stressed the need for well to do individuals and organisations, including community leaders to sponsor and support sports development by building sports academies where young talented children will be trained.
Parents and guardians, should engage their children and wards in regular sporting exercises, as they stand alot to gain from it in term of making them bodily fit among others.
It is pertinent to note that aerobic exercises also help to build the affective, cognitive and psychomotive domains of the learning of a child.
Furthermore, inter house sports competitions should be sustained as a platform for catching them young in sporting activities.
The ministry of sports and youth development should ensure that they assign staff of the ministry to observe inter house sports competitions with the aim of identifying extra ordinary talents in school children who emerge winners by breaking set records, unimaginable for their ages.
Such uniquely talented children should not only be identified but also be followed up by ensuring that they are enrolled in sports academies where they can be trained to become great athletes in the future.
For more effectiveness, inter house sports should be adequately funded by government, since they are the ones who instructed public schools management not to collect inter house sports levies from school children.
Private schools who are not organizing inter house sports competition should be compelled to do so, for the good of those children in that school. 
If Delta state and indeed Nigeria must sustain its pride of place in sports, then we must start paying real attention to young talented athletes right from the primary and secondary schools during inter house sports competition.

ASH WEDNESDAY

Today is Ash Wednesday, the commencement of the season of lent, a period in which many christians prepare for Easter in fasting and prayers towards repentance and spiritual discipline.
In today's news analysis correspondent write on the significance of Ash Wednesday to the Christendom and the society at large.
Ash Wednesday is a very important Holy day in the Liturgical calendar and it is observed by christians of various denominations, including Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians, Roman Catholics, Baptists among others.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of lent, a season of penance, reflection and fasting for forty six days before Easter.
But if the sundays from which the fasting is not observed, are excluded from the forty six days, then the days of fasting before Easter will be forty days.
Easter is the day when Jesus Christ rose from the dead by which christians attained redemption.
Ash Wednesday was originated from the ancient Jewish traditional practice of penance and fasting.
It also symbolizes grief, sorrow, and true repentance.
The Holy Bible in the old testament gives accounts of how the people of Nineveh, King David and other Jews marked themselves with ashes and wore sack clothes to show remorse for their sins with a view to receiving divine mercy and forgiveness from God.
On ash wednesday the priest or the clergy administers ashes on the fore heads of interested christians in the sign of the cross.
Furthermore, the priest enjoins partaker to remember that they originated from dust and to dust will they return, with an advice to them to repent and believe the gospel.
The ashes are a symbol of penance made sacred by the blessing of the church and it help christians to develop the spirit of humanity and sacrifice.
Why the ashes symbolizes penance and contrition, they are also a reminder of God's grace and mercy to those who are repentant.
The church on this day is expected to seek God's mercy for our nation Nigeria as the Ninevites did in Bible days.
Consequently christians politicians, religious leaders and other Nigerians should use the lenten period to repent from their wrong doing and turn a new leaf.
For those christians who have stolen public funds, they should repent and return such monies as well as do things that will positively impact the Nigerian society.
Such spirit of penance no doubt will promote inclusive and sustainable growth and development in Nigeria.
Spiritually speaking christians should sincerely repent and demonstrate it in their daily activities, habits, behaviours as well as service to God and humanity.
Nigerians should remember that God cannot be mocked or deceived, knowing too well that we all shall give account of our earthly activities to our creator.
The time to repent is now.    

WATERESWAYS

Economic experts have implored government and other relevant stakeholders in the maritime sector, to explore the great potentials in the Nigerian maritime industry towards making the nation's economy more vibrant and competitive and progressive.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the enormous economic benefits of a well maximized maritime sector in Nigeria.
It is a well known fact that Nigeria as a country is richly blessed with vast mass of water bodies, linking internal and external geographical zones.
During the colonial era, the British made good used of the Nigerian waterways to export agricultural produce to the outside world.
However since independence in 1960, the Nigerian government has not been able to harness the nation's maritime sector for economic growth and development, probably due to inadequate political will, bad governance and insecurity in the waterways among others.
There is therefore the need for a proactive approach towards utilizing the Nigerian maritime base since the waterways remain veritable channels for transporting goods and services locally and internationally.
Therefore, government needs to create a more effective platform to influence private investors involvement in opening up the the Nigerian waterways to allow for bigger vessels to move in and out of the country.
Inland waterways have been the best channels of transporting heavy goods and services in large quantities all over the world, and Nigeria can not afford to be an exception.
In Delta State for instance, Warri, Koko, Sapele and the Burutu Sea Ports are moribund with Warri port operating below capacity.
If the four Delta State sea ports are made to function optimally as they were in the past, they will no doubt boost the economy of the State, especially in the riverine areas.
Although militancy created perceived insecurity in the areas leading to a slow pace of development, however the prevailing peace in the State's waterways calls for an urgent need for government and other stakeholders to focus attention on reviving the waterways towards making them more competitives.
The Federal Government through the ministry of transport, needs to be more serious about developing the maritime sector instead of politicizing the issue.
Furthermore, their is the need to beef up security in the nation's waterways to help curtail maritime crimes such as sea piracy, kidnapping and crude oil theft among others.
This no doubt will help enhance the smooth and free flow of goods and services in the Nigerian waterways.
The effective utilization of the nation's maritime sector will not only boost and grow Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product GDP but it will also help to sustain the prevailing peace in the riverine communities as many riverine dwellers will be gainfully engaged  

OVER SPEEDING

Over speeding has been identified as one of the major causes of road accidents that has led to losses of lives and property as well as disfigured many.
In reducing these road crashes caused by over speeding, the federal government in 2016 announced October 1. as the date for fall compliance to install speed limit device in their vehicles.
Correspondent in today's news analysis writes on the importance of the speed limit device to motorists and all road users vis a vis the compliance by transportation lines and private car owners.
Over the years the Nigerian roads have recorded many form of road crashes or fatal accidents, which cost victims their lives and lost of property.
Statistic shown that apart from bad roads, lack of adherence to traffic signs, over speeding amount for fifty percent of road crashes or accidents
This disturbing trend on our roads prompted the federal road safety corps FRSC and other relevant stakeholders to hold several meetings on the possible ways of reducing accidents cause by over speeding on our roads.
Relying on research findings the stakeholders came up with the idea of installing speed limit device 0n vehicles , as one way of curbing road crashes and save lives.
According to safety experts, speed limit device which is mostly used in developed countries, is to regulate the speed of a vehicle within a specific kilometer per hours.
The speed limit device which usually come in different sizes are to be installed in lorries, trucks, tankers, buses and small cars that ply the Nigerian road.
These safety experts have warned that the speed limit device are only to be installed by certified vendors and implored vehicle owners not to engage the services of quack in installing the speed limit device.
Passengers purchasing commercials vehicles are advice to ensure they only board vehicles with speed limit device install on it, so as to guarantee safe trip to their destinations.
It is pertinent to note that aside safety of lives and reduce of road crashes, the speed limit device also ensures low operational cost of vehicles as well as low consumption of fuel.
But since the introduction of speed limit device, how many vehicles plying the Nigerian road have actually adhered to it ?.
We still see drivers over speeding most especially on the highways sometimes leading to accidents.
But these drivers that have not complied to the speed limit device should note that the installation of the device in their vehicles is not to witch hunt them or the transportation lines but to ensure driving sanity on the roads.
Although some drivers had complained about the high sales of the speed limit device, calling on government to subsidize the price but as they wait for government to do that, they should also note that no amount can substitute for safety of lives.
So the earlier we start complying the better for all.
Many Nigerians will say that our safety religiously is in the hands of God or Allah but the true is that you and i have role to play in making safety a reality on our roads.
    

TAXATION

The inadequate collection of internally generated revenues IGR, in Nigeria, has been identified as a major factor militating against economic and infrastructural development in the country.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the importance of effective and efficient taxation system to socio economic development in Nigeria.
Taxation is a system of revenue generation by government.
It is a compulsory levy imposed by government on individuals or businesses to enable it perform it legitimate functions to the society.
The revenue collect from taxes is used for infrastructural projects such as basic social amenities as well as security and payment of salaries of civil servants among others.
Taxation worldwide is a way of ascertaining citizens sense of responsibility towards the society.
By paying taxes, citizens are making monies available to the government and its agencies to run the country.
However not much attention is paid to raising funds through taxation, probably because of over dependence on oil wealth.
The fall in the price of crude oil in the global market has necessitated the search for alternative sources of revenues and tax is one of such ways.
But Nigerians are reluctant to pay taxes because governments does not show enough evidence of what the previous taxes are used for.
Another challenges facing taxation in Nigeria is the poor taxation system at the federal, state and local government levels, in terms of collection and remittance.
The non remittance of taxes by some tax officials coupled with tax invasion by some corporate organizations in the rural and urban areas are factors hindering effective taxation in the country.
Statistics however reveals that Nigeria is among countries of the world with low tax generation rate, a situation which leads to government borrowing or relying on a rise in crude oil price.
Economists are of the view that effective utilization of taxes collected will help to boost government's revenue thereby reducing borrowing.
Prudent spending of tax payer's monies on infrastrutural projects, basic social amenities, security, prompt payment of civil servants' salaries, among others will go a long way in spurring Nigerians to paying their taxes regularly.
Government at the federal, state and local levels should fashion out ways by which Nigerians can conveniently pay their taxes, either electronically or through the banks rather than paying through revenue collectors.
That way the issue of fake and fraudulent revenue collectors who go about with fake receipts to collect taxes from people will be eradicated thereby leading to transparency and accountability in the Nigerian taxation system.
The need to intensify awareness campaigns on the importance of paying tax should be communicated in different Nigeria languages and broadcast on radio and television stations, so as to involve everyone in tax payment.
If the nation's economy must be boosted, then the issues raised in this work must be considered seriously.          

STRESS

Stress has been identified as one of the major causes of sudden death worldwide.
But what exactly is stress, what are its consequences and how can it be managed ?.
These are some of the questions which our correspondent tries to provide answers to in today's news analysis.
Stress is a mental pressure or worry caused by various problems in one's life.
It is a common knowledge that life itself is full of thoughts, demands, expectations, meeting deadlines, frustrations, making ends meet among others.
But if not properly managed, stress can affect one's central nervous system which can lead to bodily or mental breakdown or sometimes death.
It is a psychological fact that when a person is under pressure, he or she can not perform optimally or think straight.
Every profession or craft has it own peculiar challenges or hazards.
However some persons are privileged to work with a well defined schedule in a conducive work place while others are not so lucky.
It is instructive to note that stress in a work place could be cause by poor emoluments compared to the work load, inadequate working materials or equipment to get the task done as well as long overtime without a commensurate pay at the end.
In Nigeria stress is hardly noticed by those suffering from it and this portend danger because when stress become overwhelming it can negatively affect one's health, mood, quality life among others.
If not properly manage stress can lead to hypertension, stroke, fever, mental disorder, bodily pains, low productivity among other deadly consequences.
Research findings has shown that people can actually control or manage stress but unfortunately many Nigerians tends to cope with or control stress in ways that only help to compound the problem.
These crops of Nigerians are in the habit of drinking alcohol at the end of a stressful or hectic day, fill their stomachs with junk  or heavy foods, smoke cigarettes, sit in front of television all day watching worthless programmes or sometimes spend longer time with their computers or smart phones doing nothing productive.
In addition some used pills or hard drugs to help relax their nerves, thinking that they will get out better by so doing.
However stress experts have recommended relaxation, regular exercise, dieting, positive mental attitude, abstinence from habits such as smoking, alcoholism, hard drugs as well as regular medical check ups as ways of effectively managing stress.
Government and other relevant employers of labor also have roles to play in reducing stress among workers, such as making sure that workers are well paid and promptly, provide them with adequate working materials or equipment as well as create a conducive working environments for them to work.
Workers on their parts should make good use of their time off or vacations, so as to refresh themselves, engage in productive ventures during holidays, read the right books and also upgrade and develop themselves ahead of resumption.
Stress they say is inevitable but adherence to the various stress management techniques or scientific recommendations can go a long way to solving the problems.            

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY

January 15 every year is observed as Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria.
The day is set aside by the Nigerian Government to celebrate military heroes, who served to ensure peace in the country.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the significance of the day vis a vis stakeholders roles in ensuring sustainable peace in the Nigerian project.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration is an annual event organized to honour members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who fought in the first and second world wars, those that have retired and the ones that are still serving in various peace keeping missions worldwide as well as those who fought in the Nigerian Civil War.
The day is also used to to celebrate both the dead and living heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces, including those who suffered various deprivations and deformities among others losses as a result of war.
The day was initially marked on the 11th of November every year to coincide with the popular "Poppy Day" or eleven eleven for the first and second world war veterans in all commonwealth countries.
However in Nigeria, some significant historical developments such as the surrender of the Biafran troops to the Nigerian troops on January 15, 1970 and brought about change in date from November 11 to January 15 every year.
The surrendering of the Brafran troops to the Nigerian troops signalled the end of the Nigerian civil war which almost tore apart the unity, peace and progress of the country.
Since that historical achievement by the Nigerian troops, the date now became a national ritual where military personnel, including the Army, Navy, Air forces, the Nigerian legion, Politicians and a cross section of  the society converge on different centers across the country to celebrate the day and give honour to the fallen and living heroes who sacrificed and still continue to sacrifice their lives to protect the lives of others.
The event which is held at the Federal, State and Local Government levels, features several activities such as the release of pigeons to symbolize peace, laying of wreaths at cenotaph of an unknown soldier, inspecting of parades, gun salute among others.
Prayers were also offered in churches and mosques to commit the peace and unity of the nation to God.
It is worthy of note that the Nigerian military has helped in dislodging Boko Haram from the Sambisa forest.
However, this achievement is not significant enough for them to rest on their oars but rather step up their efforts in combating the cattle rustling menace, fulani and herdsmen clashes, militancy in the Niger Delta Region, frequent clashes between the christian and muslems in the Northern part of the country as well as other conflict that are capable of dividing the nation.
Government for its part has roles to play in ensuring that the military succeeds in its security task by providing funds for the acquisition of modern ammunition, prompt payment of soldier's allowances among others.
In addition, the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces should be frequently trained within and outside Nigeria.
Government should also ensure that the soldiers are properly kitted to boost their moral at the battle front.
Furthermore top ranking officers should endeavor to release benefits and entitlements to junior colleagues, especially those in the battle front, so as to help boost their moral and confidence.
Their is also the need for the Nigerian populaces, religions leaders and other stakeholders to assist the military to maintain the peace by refraining from acts and utterances that can undermine public peace in Nigeria.
Moreso, the celebration of this event should serve as a clarion call to overnment to promptly pay up allowances and entitlements of military pensioners as well as make policies that will affect the lives of families of fallen but gallant military officers and men positively.  
As Nigerians irrespective of their origins, political affiliations, tribal and religious backgrounds celebrate the day, it is important for all to join in allowing peace to prevail in the land so as to bring about growth and development to the Nigerian society.    

CULTURAL VALUE

Nigerian traditional values system and norms have being facing some challenges accentuated by non adherence to it, thereby pushing it almost into extinction, except proactive measures and urgent steps are taken to address the situation.
 In today's news analysis correspondent write on the need to revive the cultural heritage and values system of Nigeria towards building a better society.
In time past, the Nigeria traditional value system was characterized by respect for elders, good moral values, communal life, fear of the gobs, dignity of labor,cultural sense of pride and exemplary character, to mention but a few.
Unfortunately,these traditional values and cultural norms are today deteriorating very fast, a situation which many attributed to the influence of Western Civilization.
 Scholars of African History have argued that in the olden days the people who deviated from societal norms were sanctioned to serve as a deterrent to others.
The African scholars maintained that the need to protect the image of a family and also comply with societal norms was paramount in every community in Nigeria.
Before the advent of British the Nigerian traditional system was well structured to ensure sanity, law and order, high sense of responsibility.
With the introduction of western culture, Nigerians now act, react and behave like Europeans and Americans in virtually everything, forgetting their own core traditional values.
Why it may be plausible to argue that Western Civilization has some positive effects, Nigerians needs to draw inspiration from the interface into Africa and Western cultures, towards preventing the traditional values and norms that have defined Africans as a people.
One way to effectively strike a balance between the Africa Culture and Western civilization is for Nigerians to get the good aspects of either cultures and maximize them for societal development.
Another area of note, is the inability of the Nigerian child to speak his native language fluently, cook traditional delicacies and dress in his native attires.
These diminishing traditional values have been blamed on the family front, where parents and guardians hardly have the time to teach their kids and wards native customs and traditions, how to speak their native language and prepare native delicacies as well as how to dress traditionally among others.
The way forward in getting the home front right, is for parents and guardians to adopt the old practice where traditional folk tales depicting high moral values are told to children in the evenings and also ensures that english language is not spoken at home as well as to encourage the children to always prepare native meals among others.
The school also has a role to play by ensuring that teachers who teach vernacular or native languages should compel their pupils or students to interact in the native language being taught in the class.
In that way, children who are indigenes of that locality and those who are non indigenes will learn more about that language.
The ministry of education, should make it compulsory for schools to organize cultural festivals frequently rather than just once in an academic year.
The media who are the forth estate of the realm, should also create traditional programmes on radio and television.
If Nigeria must revive the almost eroded Nigerian traditional values and norms all hands must be on deck.                     

RECKLESS DRIVING

Reckless driving has been a major traffic problem on many Nigerian roads, accentuated by indiscriminate parking of vehicles on the roads, which most times lead to traffic jams and accidents.
In today's news analysis correspondent writes on the dangers of reckless driving and indiscriminate parking of vehicles on motor roads.
Traffic regulation is done through traffic lights, safety rules and regulations towards ensuring sanity on our roads and also to ease vehicular movement and reduce road accidents and death.
To achieve this, the Federal and State Governments set up various roads safety agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, the Vehicle Inspection Office, VIO, the Traffic Department of The Nigerian Police, the Delta State Traffic Management Authority, DESTMA and its counterpart in Lagos State, LASTMA.
In spite of these efforts, most Nigeria motorists have continued to drive recklessly on our highways.
Reckless driving and indiscriminate parking of vehicles are major traffic violations, a display of carelessness and lack of concern for others road users, as evidenced by over speeding, heavy gridlock and sometimes accidents.
Bad driving habits can also be attributed to failed portions on our roads as drivers try to avoid them by maneuvering their ways, using the better parts of the road as it is seen in most bad roads in Warri, Sapele, Asaba among others major Cities.
In addition, reckless driving are caused by impatience on the parts of drivers and when they are trying to avoid failed portions on our roads.
The situation is even worse when broken down vehicles are abandoned on the roads, while some vehicles are indiscriminately parked on very busy roads, thereby causing traffic chaos.
Statistics have shown that most of the road accidents in Nigeria are traceable to reckless driving and indiscriminate parking of vehicles.
However bad roads should not be used as an excuse for lawlessness on the roads, as motorists are expected to adhere to simple driving rules and obey highway codes with a high sense of maturity when plying the roads.
Traffic offenders should be punished while relevant government authorities should rehabilitate bad roads and also put measures in place to control over speeding on our roads.
Furthermore, Nigeria drivers should endeavor to install speed limit device in their vehicles.
The habits of making calls while driving should be discouraged and the culture of using the seat belts should be encouraged.
Motorists should be educated and enlightened on the dangers of reckless driving through regular seminars in motor parks and also through radio and television jingles.
If you think road safety is too hard to adhere to, then try accidents.     

WATSE INTO WEALTH

The failure of  government and other relevant authorities to convert wastes into wealth has been identified as one of the causes of dirty environments and attendant health hazards in Nigeria.
In today's news analysis correspondent underscores the socio-economic benefits of waste recycling to Nigerians and the environment.
Waste is a substance or anything that is discarded or disposed off after primary use or something that is considered worthless.
It is classified into different categories such as solid, liquid or organic wastes.
In developed countries of the world, waste are very useful and they are recycled into useful products, that is sold back to the markets, thereby generating income for their citizens and the government.
Such countries take advantages of these large population, which generate huge tons of wastes daily to boost their Gross Domestic Product GDP and create wealth for their citizens.
On the contrary, Nigeria as a country with a large population that generates many tons of wastes daily is still struggling to get it right, with wealth in forms of wastes littering everywhere .
Effective waste management is a major environmental issue in Nigeria's development discourse.
In developed countries wastes are sorted into different bags, both at homes, places of work and even in the markets, with the sole aim to sell them neatly to recycling firms, thereby generating little funds and also help in keeping the environment clean.
Furthermore, this practice creates wealth and also helps to sanitize the environment as well as eradicate health problems from the society.
On the other hand, organic wastes generated from the kitchens, restaurants and social events can be turned into manure to be used by farmers or the left over foods can be given to animals to feed on, rather than discarding them indiscriminately.
Such organic wastes can further be recycled into animals and poultry feeds, for those involved in fishery business, poultry and animal husbandry.
In addition, wastes from grasses and other vegetations can serve as foods for both terrestial and aquatic animals.
Now that government has placed much emphasis on Agriculture, Nigerians should exploit this opportunity by going into partime or full time farming, using organic wastes and grasses to feed animals and fertilize their farmlands.
This will no doubt help to boost food production in Nigeria and also help diversify the economy as well as reduce unemployment, hunger and crimes in the nation.
Nigerian government and investors should delve into the waste to wealth business by building recycling plants at strategic locations, so as to help collect wastes from that axes and recycle it into useful products.
Moreso, government should make policies and enact laws that will help promote the waste to wealth enterprise in all States of the Federation.
If well to do Nigerians can set up recycling plants that can transform waste into valuable commodities, then the nation's dependence on the oil sector will reduce and this will also help promote made in Nigeria products thereby strengthening the Nigerian naira.     

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION

At the start of every new year, people usually set goals for themselves and these goals are commonly referred to as New Year Resolutions.
In today's news analysis, correspondent examine the concept of new year resolution and the sincerity among Nigerians in keeping to their new year resolutions.
New year resolution as a practice can be traced to the ancient time.
Some Historians had it that new year resolution is a tradition that is most common in the Western Hemisphere and also in the Eastern Hemisphere, in which a person resolves to change an undesired triat or behaviour.
The Babylonians in the olden days also made promises to their gods at the start of each year, that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts.
The Romans on their parts began each year by making promises to their god known as JANUS,for whom the month of January was name.
While in the Medieval era, the Knights took the peacock vow at the end of the Christmas season each year to reaffirm their commitment to chivalry.
Indeed, in every new year celebration, people often think retrospectively, reflecting on their actions and inaction as well as seek for human and divine forgiveness of sins or wrong doings in the out gone year.
In today's Nigeria society, many Christians at cross over services plan for the year ahead through prayers, while others write down or say it orally what they intend to do in the new year.
The concept of new year resolution no doubt help people to critique themselves for improvement.
Nigerians irrespective of their religions, tribes or political affiliations also make different new year resolutions, which include getting rid of bad habits or practices such as smoking, alcoholism and drunkeness, fornication, crime, corruption and other vices.
Others resolved to get married, own a house, lose weight through exercises and dieting, be more financially prudent as well as engage in more productive ventures among others.
However it has been observed that some Nigerians set aside or jettison their new year resolutions after the euphoria of the yuletide within the first quarter of the new year.
The inability to keep to the new year resolutions can be blamed on making beautiful but unrealizable resolutions  while others fail because of prevailing societal realities such as economic recessions or inflation.
To avoid failed new year resolutions, it is important that people should critically examine prevailing situations before setting goals, so as not to disappoint themselves at the long run.
It is also imperative for one to write down one's resolution on a clean sheet of paper and paste on the wall where it can easily be read as a reminder.
It is very imperative for one to have a positive mentality or attitudes towards actualizing one's set goals or resolutions.
Procrastination is a negative attitude and it can kill people's set goals.
A resolution not carried out immediately may eventually fade away due to delay.
For instance, delay in the implementation of development policies by public office holders has been blamed for the socio-economic challenges facing the Nigerian masses today.
Moreso, a project contract not executed timely may cost more in future due to inflation indices and this may lead to such a project being abandoned or revoked at the expense of the beneficiaries.
As the saying goes "early to bed, early to rise" and "a stitch in time saves nine".         

VOTERS' REGISTRATION

The inability of some Nigerians within the voting age to register during voters registration has been identified as one of the challenges facing the Nigerian voting system.
In today's news analysis, correspondent underscores the benefits of voters registratin in Nigeria.
A voter is a citizen who is eligible to vote in an election while registration simply means the process of registering voters electronically or manually.
Voter registration is therefore a process of documenting citizen's names and other details in an electronic or manual data base of the nation's electoral body.
Voter registration is the right of every eligible citizen to participate in the choice of those to stare the governance of their country.
Voter registration is therefore one of the cornerstones of any democratic processes, that promotes free and fair elections.
For eligible citizens to vote and be voted for, there must be a comprehensive and inclusive voter's register.
The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, has commenced another round of the continuous voters registration exercise across the country with the aim of registering those who are now of voting age and those above but are yet to be registered.
The on going voters registration exercise has witnessed some challenges such as ineffective co-ordination by some INEC officials, lackadaisical attitudes by some INEC officials to work, inadequate voter registration centers, ignorance on the part of many Nigerians on where, when and how to get registered amongst others.
Voters registration, no doubt helps the electoral agency to ascertain the total number of registered voters towards ensuring that only registered voters, vote on election days and disallow those not registered from voting.
Despite these benefits to the nation's electoral system, many Nigerians still see voter registration as an exercise that does not concern them, yet they complain about bad governance and incompetent political office holders after elections, in which they disenfranchised themselves by not being registered.
Indeed, voter registration is the first step for eligible Nigerians to empower themselves to elect politicians of their choice and by extension determine the governance of their nation.
Unfortuately, many Nigerians complain after elections, even when they failed to vote because they did not register, while some registered ones stay at home on e;ection day, thereby denying themselves of the opportunity to choose good leaders.
Therefore, Nigerians who are eighteen yeats and above but are yet to register, should seize the opportunity of the on going voters registration exercise to empower themselves for the forthcoming political elections.
Nigerians should not see a voter's card as their power to run bank transactions alone, but as their right to determine the political landscape of Nigeria.
INEC on its part shold look at possible ways to increase the number of voters registration centers to accommodate more eligible voters and also run jungles on radio and television to help sensitize Nigerians who are yet to register.
Furthermore, Nigerians who have registered but are yet to collect their Permanent Voters Cards, should go to their Local Government Secretariats or where they registered to collect their PVCs.
Those who misplaced or damaged their voters cards should apply for a replacement, to enable them exercise their franchise on the day of election.
If you are not registered you cannot vote, and if you do not vote, you should not complain after elections.
The time to register is now