Development and growth in any society hinge upon the establishment of an orderly framework of behavior that accommodates everyone. This includes creating effective systems for resolving disputes, addressing crimes, and fostering a collective understanding of the need to obey rules and regulations. These rules form the very foundation upon which a better society is built. To illustrate this, I will share a story that encapsulates the essence of what I wish to convey. The Story of Mr. Adamu Mr. Adamu was a retired civil servant who dedicated forty years of his life to working in the Ministry of Information. During his tenure, he rose to the position of director. However, despite his influential role, Mr. Adamu consistently ignored opportunities to engage in community sensitization programs. These programs could have educated citizens and security operatives about the importance of lawful behavior and the role of regulations in ensuring societal harmony. His focus was instead confined to bureaucratic tasks, leaving broader societal concerns unaddressed. Time, as always, took its course. After four decades of service, Mr. Adamu's career came to an end, and he retired to a quiet life in his estate, known as PPPN Platform. As a respected elder and former public servant, he often took morning walks along the estate's serene streets. Despite his position and status, he remained indifferent to the activities around him. He neither intervened in nor raised awareness about issues concerning societal growth and development. The Setting A major route in the estate served as Mr. Adamu's regular walking path. Along this route was a checkpoint manned by a group of security operatives notorious for extorting money from motorists. This daily extortion had become an accepted norm, a symptom of systemic decay ignored by many, including Mr. Adamu. Interestingly, the head of the security operatives at this checkpoint was Mr. Adamu's former classmate. This connection offered Mr. Adamu a unique immunity. The head of the unit had instructed his subordinates to always show respect to Mr. Adamu whenever they saw him. Thus, Mr. Adamu walked past the checkpoint daily, unconcerned about the corrupt practices occurring right before his eyes. The Incident One fateful day, tragedy struck. Mr. Okoya, a tricycle rider and neighbor of an army officer, returned home to find the officer's pregnant wife lying unconscious on the floor. Alarmed, he and his wife hurriedly carried the woman into their tricycle, intending to rush her to the nearest hospital. As they approached the main road, Mr. Okoya switched on the tricycle's hazard lights to signal the urgency of their mission. Unfortunately, the security operatives were already stationed ahead, preoccupied with their routine of extorting money from motorists. Mr. Adamu and his former classmate were standing nearby, reminiscing about their school days and oblivious to the unfolding drama. When the security operatives spotted Mr. Okoya's tricycle, they interpreted his haste as an attempt to evade their checkpoint without paying the usual bribe. Despite the visible distress signals and his wife's frantic shouting from inside the tricycle, the operatives decided to act. As Mr. Okoya accelerated to bypass the checkpoint, one of the operatives struck the tricycle's windshield with a heavy stick. The loud crash startled Mr. Okoya, causing him to lose control of the tricycle. In the ensuing chaos, the tricycle veered off the road and crashed into the barricade erected by the operatives. The aftermath was catastrophic. Mr. Adamu, his former classmate, and the pregnant woman all lost their lives in the incident. Mr. Okoya and his wife sustained severe injuries but survived. The question arose: who was to blame for this tragedy? Reflections This story is a stark reminder of the societal decay that stems from negligence, corruption, and indifference. Mr. Adamu's apathy toward societal issues during his career and retirement exemplifies how ignoring small acts of misconduct can snowball into larger, more devastating consequences. The security operatives, blinded by greed, failed to recognize the urgency of Mr. Okoya's situation. Their abuse of power and disregard for human life were the immediate catalysts for the tragedy. Yet, their actions were symptomatic of a broader societal failure—a failure to instill discipline, enforce the rule of law, and prioritize the common good over selfish interests. Conclusion The question, “Who killed the man?” is not merely rhetorical. The blame lies with a system that tolerates corruption, a society that prioritizes personal connections over accountability, and individuals who choose complacency over action. If we are to prevent such tragedies, we must embrace a collective responsibility to address societal flaws. It begins with each individual understanding the importance of their role in upholding justice, fairness, and humanity.

“Fool me once, you fool yourself. Fool me twice, and you've made me a fool.” This wise saying, rooted in African cultural philosophy, reflects a painful reality in our contemporary society. It brings to mind the poignant story of a young National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member posted from southern Nigeria to Jos in the North Central region. Determined not to remain idle, he decided to take up farming. He wasn't looking for charity—he paid for the ground rent and land clearing out of his hard-earned savings. But to his shock, he later discovered it was all a well-orchestrated scam by a local family. What he thought was a productive venture turned into betrayal and exploitation. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. It echoes a broader national concern: the erosion of values, the exploitation of good intentions, and the lack of commitment to nation building. A former Inspector General of Police once lamented that Nigeria, with a population of over 230 million, is policed by only about 450,000 personnel. Alarmingly, over 250,000 of those officers are assigned to VIPs and politicians. That leaves the majority of citizens vulnerable. So, one might ask—are we truly interested in national growth, or are we simply rehearsing the motions of progress without substance? The rot goes even deeper. Consider the disturbing trend among some NGOs in Abuja who feed off the hard work of grassroots organizations in other states. These urban-based groups claim credit before donors, receiving recognition and funding meant for those truly doing the work. This betrayal of effort and integrity is another example of the systemic dysfunction that hampers genuine progress. These interlinked acts of injustice have, over time, distorted our societal values. We now live in a society where some people value animals' more than human lives. Our cultural diversity should not be a hindrance to empathy. Humanity must always come first. If we continue to close our eyes and ears to today's evil, we may wake up tomorrow trapped in the consequences of our silence. Take the story of an elder statesman who refused to caution a fellow politician about neglecting the people's welfare. He dismissed it as none of his business—until tragedy struck. His grandchild fell into a well while trying to fetch water. The news caused his wife such distress that she suffered a hypertensive crisis. Due to poor healthcare and bad roads, she couldn't be saved. In a short period, he lost two loved ones. Only then did he realize that the evil men do doesn't just live after them—it often lives with them. So the question remains: what values are we embracing as a people? Are they driven by conscience, or by material gains and fleeting accolades? What legacy will we leave behind? What impact are we making in our communities? We often say Rome wasn't built in a day. But as we talk about building a better Nigeria, what role are we playing? Are we supplying the blocks, the sand, the water—or the blueprint? Or are we merely sitting on the fence, waiting to criticize or hoping for disaster if things don't go our way? Nation building is not the job of a select few. It is a shared responsibility. Once upon a time, people proudly traveled abroad to give birth so their children could claim citizenship of more developed nations. But those societies were not miracles—they were built by people who believed in progress, who were guided by values, and who sacrificed for the future. Let us be guided too—not by greed or selfish ambition, but by a true desire to see our nation thrive, even in the face of hardship. The call today is clear: we must return to values that prioritize integrity, responsibility, and collective growth. Only then can we hope to rewrite our story—and give the next generation a country worth calling home.

Protocol and the People A few weeks ago, I came across an article about an interesting diplomatic moment. The U.S. President's motorcade was passing through a city, leading to a temporary road closure. Coincidentally, the President of France was caught in the traffic. Rather than wait impatiently, he calmly stepped out of his car and walked to the French Embassy nearby. Reports say he even placed a call to the U.S. President—likely exchanging pleasantries and turning what could have been a frustrating moment into a graceful display of diplomacy and humility. This simple act carries deep lessons about leadership, protocol, and the human side of power. Once an individual becomes the President of a nation—regardless of how he or she got there—they automatically become the First Citizen. With that status comes an aura of respect and honour, not just for the officeholder, but for the nation they represent. A similar reflection came to mind during the recent burial of the late mother of the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). For the family, it was a day of grief; for the state, a day of honour. Never in her lifetime did the late woman witness such a parade of dignitaries—governors, ministers, senators, traditional rulers, and political figures—all converging to pay their respects. The state government equally played its part in ensuring that the ceremony went smoothly. However, for ordinary citizens, the event came with its share of inconveniences. Roads were blocked for hours, bringing the entire area to a standstill. Weddings were delayed, other burials were postponed, and small business owners—especially roadside vendors and tricycle riders—had their daily earnings disrupted. Some even saw the situation as an opportunity to increase transport fares. In the midst of it all, everyone had a story, and everyone sought attention in one way or another. Unfortunately, not everyone understood what was happening or why. A local reporter from Jay FM, in a rush to post breaking news, failed to respect the ethics of journalism. The caption that followed her post claimed that a Muslim attended a church service while pastors were denied entry into their own church and pulpit. The post spread quickly, stirring unnecessary tension online. I couldn't help but smile—not out of amusement, but disbelief. I asked myself: Hasn't the Bible reminded us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit? The church building, no matter how sacred, is still a physical structure where believers gather to worship. The real church is the people. If we understood this, perhaps we would not allow sensational narratives to divide us so easily. Now imagine if that misleading post had triggered public outrage—if people had reacted violently, destroying lives and property in anger. Plateau State could have been thrown once again into chaos, all because of a careless headline. That single act of ignorance could have reignited the painful cycle of violence we have worked so hard to overcome. Interestingly, the same burial event that sparked online controversy brought together people from different faiths—Christians, Muslims, and even traditional worshippers—all united in one gathering to honour a departed mother. That moment should have reminded us that, beyond our religions, tribes, and political affiliations, we are first and foremost human beings, bound by shared values and mutual respect. As a people, we must learn to understand how systems work. Protocol is not favoritism—it is a structured way of maintaining order, respect, and safety in public functions. Not everyone can sit in the front row or speak from the pulpit during a state event. It is not a measure of one's faith or relevance; it is simply procedure. Before we rush to social media to criticize, mock, or incite the public, we must seek understanding. Not every act of exclusion is discrimination; sometimes, it is protocol. And as we move closer to another political season, we must be mindful of how words, posts, and assumptions can inflame passions and cause irreversible damage. Some people may have survived such recklessness in the past—but not everyone will be that lucky. In the end, our society must find a balance between respecting protocol and valuing people. The ability to discern, to think critically before reacting, and to prioritize peace over pride is what makes a people truly mature. Leadership may come with power, but citizenship comes with responsibility

A few days ago, my cousin called me to express his frustration about losing his job with an international organization due to the policy shifts under the new U.S. administration. As we reminisced over the video call, I tried to reason with him and, in the process, educate him on the broader implications of donor funding and the need for self-reliance. I asked him pointed questions: Do you pay your taxes in dollars? Is the aid money your money? Did you vote in America? I reminded him that it's called aid money for a reason—it's not our money I drew parallels between the U.S. political system and Nigeria's, where each administration has its own agenda. I reminded him of how a sitting Nigerian president once changed the currency just weeks before an election, causing widespread disruption, yet Nigerians adapted. Similarly, the U.S. has the right to prioritize its interests, including reallocating aid funding. So I said to him let me burst your brain, There's an African country where a few months ago,the president awarded a road contract for $9.8bn to a construction company that has the president's son on the board The citizen of the country are currently on Twitter crying because Trump just withheld $500m worth of medical aid that they were expecting to receive in 2025, is that amazing because the same citizen cannot see the contradiction between paragraph 1 and 2. The conversation then shifted to the role of USAID and other donor agencies in Africa, particularly Nigeria and Plateau State. While USAID has undeniably created jobs and improved livelihoods in some sectors, its impact has been a double-edged sword. For instance, the insurgency in Nigeria's northeast has persisted, partly because the humanitarian aid industry has become a multibillion-dollar business. Beautifully written proposals often overshadow the real issues, and the narrative keeps changing without addressing the root causes of insecurity. I also highlighted the ethical dilemmas tied to donor funding. Despite these challenges, we cannot ignore the positive contributions of USAID. It has funded critical projects in health, education, and agriculture, creating opportunities for many Nigerians. However, the time has come for African countries, especially Nigeria and Plateau State, to focus on sustainability. The Way Forward: Building Self-Reliance and Accountability 1. Documenting Success Stories: Every state and NGO should document their field experiences, creating a repository of lessons learned and best practices. These documents can be translated into multiple languages and sold online, showcasing the impact of donor-funded projects. For example, Plateau State could create a digital museum highlighting its transformation from a region plagued by ethno-religious conflicts to a united community. This would not only preserve history but also attract tourists and investors, much like Rwanda has done. 2. Leveraging Cultural Heritage: Nigeria is rich in cultural heritage, yet this potential remains largely untapped. NGOs and local communities can collaborate to turn cultural assets into sustainable sources of income. For instance, traditional crafts, festivals, and historical sites can be marketed to the global community, creating jobs and fostering economic growth. 3. Strengthening Institutions: Accountability begins with strong institutions. Nigerians must learn to vote based on competence rather than ethnic or religious sentiments. Paying taxes and demanding transparency from leaders will strengthen governance and reduce dependence on foreign aid. After all, the countries providing aid achieved their development through proactive policies and strong institutions. 4. Corporate-NGO Partnerships: The NGO sector has created numerous opportunities that can be leveraged by the corporate world. By partnering with NGOs, businesses can fulfill their corporate social responsibilities while supporting sustainable development. For example, a tech company could collaborate with an NGO to digitize educational resources in rural areas, bridging the digital divide. 5. Embracing Technology and Data: The world revolves around data and technology. African countries must invest in these areas to compete globally. During his NGO journey, my cousin witnessed the beauty of Nigeria's cultural heritage. How can we use technology to preserve and monetize these assets? For instance, virtual tours of historical sites could generate revenue while promoting cultural understanding. Conclusion The ultimate goal of developed nations is to keep developing nations dependent on them. However, Africa, and Nigeria in particular, has the resources and potential to break this cycle. By focusing on sustainability, leveraging our cultural heritage, and strengthening our institutions, we can reduce our reliance on donor funding and chart a path toward self-reliance.

Abstract This discourse sheds light on how Lutrics Edu, an innovative educational tool, serves as a catalyst for promoting youth empowerment and peacebuilding. youth can access educational content on peacebuilding, fostering positive engagement and productivity in peace efforts. The content spans various subjects, including ethnoreligious harmony, safety skills, and peacebuilding strategies. By equipping young people with the necessary skills and knowledge. Introduction The interplay between youth empowerment and peacebuilding is crucial to addressing the socio-political challenges that Plateau State faces. Youth empowerment is not only essential for personal growth but also central to the collective development of society. In a region marked by ethnic and religious tensions, unemployment, and political instability, empowering young people is vital for creating sustainable peace. This article explores how youth empowerment, facilitated through innovative platforms like Lutrics Edu, can contribute to peacebuilding and development in Plateau State. It also highlights the role of education, skills development, and socio-political inclusion in fostering ethnoreligious harmony and reducing conflict. Key Challenges Facing Youth Empowerment Youth empowerment in Plateau State faces several challenges that impede the realization of its full potential. Some of the key barriers include: 1.Lack of Skills: Many young people lack the necessary skills to engage in peacebuilding or secure gainful employment. This skill gap stems from limited access to education, especially in rural areas, and a lack of investment in vocational training. 2.Lack of Awareness: Many youth are unaware of opportunities for education, employment, or peacebuilding. The absence of proper guidance and mentorship further limits their ability to access these opportunities. 3.Social and Economic Barriers: Economic disparities, gender discrimination, and technological barriers significantly hinder youth development. In Plateau State, poverty and illiteracy are prevalent among young people, limiting their ability to access credit and other resources necessary for entrepreneurship and socio-political engagement. 4.Vulnerability to Extremism: The economic and social marginalization of youth makes them vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups. Addressing the root causes of youth radicalization requires a comprehensive approach that includes economic empowerment, education, and social inclusion. Entry Points for Youth Empowerment Effective youth empowerment strategies must focus on enabling young people to become active agents of change within their communities. Some strategic entry points for youth empowerment in peacebuilding include: Strengthening Youth Networks: Establishing national and regional youth peace networks allows young people to collaborate, share knowledge, and mobilize their communities for positive change. Gender Inclusion: Encouraging the participation of young women in peacebuilding ensures that peace efforts are inclusive and reflective of diverse perspectives. Addressing patriarchal attitudes and gender biases is crucial for empowering all segments of society. Economic Empowerment: Providing youth with alternative livelihoods, particularly in areas affected by conflict, helps to stabilize their economic prospects and reduces the risk of involvement in criminal activities. Community Engagement: Engaging youth in community recovery efforts, such as rebuilding social infrastructure, fosters a positive image of youth and strengthens their role in reintegration processes. Recommendations Achieving youth empowerment requires a concerted effort across multiple sectors. The following recommendations are essential for promoting youth empowerment and peacebuilding in Plateau State: 1.Invest in Youth Skills Development: There must be deliberate efforts to train and empower young people through vocational programs, entrepreneurial training, and leadership development. Economic empowerment through grants and contracts can provide youth with the resources needed to create sustainable livelihoods. 2.Leverage Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurship offers a low-cost pathway to self-empowerment and economic independence. By encouraging youth to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, the state can foster innovation and create a more peaceful and stable environment for development. Conclusion Youth empowerment is a vital strategy for promoting sustainable peace and development in Plateau State. By equipping young people with the necessary skills, knowledge, and opportunities, they can play a central role in addressing the socio-political challenges that the region faces. Platforms like Lutrics Edu demonstrate the potential of technology to bridge the gap in education and provide rural youth with the tools needed for peacebuilding.