Opinion
PROFESSOR ABDUL-RASHEED NA’ALLAH – A ROLE MODEL FOR FUTURE LEADERS
As the sun sets on his illustrious tenure, students and staff of the Centre for SIWES (CSIWES) and Centre for Student Employment and Mentoring (CSEM), stand in awe of the transformative legacy that would be left behind by our esteemed Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah. With boundless dedication and unwavering commitment, Professor Na’Allah has propelled our university to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the academia’s landscape.
Among his myriad accomplishments, perhaps this shines brightest-the establishment of Student Employment and Mentoring Schemes. This beacon of opportunity has not only provided financial assistance to countless students but also served as a nurturing ground for personal and professional growth. Through the visionary Student Employment Scheme (SES) pioneered by Professor Na’Allah, over 500 graduates with exemplary academic records have been empowered to contribute meaningfully to campus life while easing the burden of education expenses. Their stories stand as a testament to the transformative power of empowerment and opportunity.
The SES, launched upon his assumption of office in July 2019, allowed students with first class or second class upper CGPA to work on campus, gaining invaluable work experience while receiving stipends for hours worked. The scheme not only taught students crucial lessons of money and time management, but also assisted many in paying their school and hostel fees amongst other expenses. The personal stories of those who benefited from the SES are testament to its success. Chigozie Ogbuagbu expressed gratitude, stating, “Thanks to the efforts of the Vice Chancellor and the Student Employment Scheme. I was able to purchase a laptop, pay house bills, and boost my self-esteem in both work and personal interactions.” Similarly, Aregbesola Marvelous said, “Thanks to the Vice Chancellor, valuable experience was gained during my time as a student worker—experience that others often have to pay for in the outside world.” Otteh Ernest added, “The SES gave me a reason to continually improve my grades, as remaining a worker was contingent upon continued academic excellence.” These testimonials are just a few among many that highlights the profound impact of the SES.
In December 2023, student workers erected a monument in honour of Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, expressing their appreciation for the lasting legacy of this initiative.
Furthermore, under Professor Na’Allah’s stewardship, CSEM has blossomed into a hub of mentorship and guidance. The Student Mentoring Scheme (SMS), another significant and treasured initiative that paired 100 and 200 level students as mentees with 300 level and above who have been trained as mentors also emerged. Thanks to the visionary leadership of the Vice Chancellor, over 10,000 students are productively engaged while over 2,000 have successfully passed through the Scheme with testimonials of varying positive impact. The Mentoring scheme, along with the Student Employment Scheme, has now been institutionalized as a university policy for all undergraduate students. The Centre has fostered a culture of support and camaraderie, transcending academic boundaries to nurture holistic development. Countless hearts and minds have been enriched through the wisdom imparted by these student mentors, forging lifelong bonds and inspiring dreams anew.
On the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Professor Na’Allah revolutionized the programme, improving the SIWES experience for students and changing the narrative of the struggling old SIWES unit when he took over. Not less than three awards have been received for the Centre’s sterling contributions to SIWES under his tenure. Today, the SIWES Centre is up-to-date in its operations and administration, thanks to his effective leadership and outstanding support of Na’Allah’s distinguishedleadership.
Several milestone achievements have been recorded during his tenure. A few of these include:
• Creation of the Graduate Trainee Scheme which enables retention of outstanding graduating student workers by the university for youth service thus providing a seamless transition into professional roles nationally and internationally.
• Student Employment Scheme Policy statement that enhances all university partners to engage students covering 5 to 10% of their work force as part of their corporate social responsibility as well as other versions of the Scheme
• Not less than ten student workers, have benefitted from the Undergraduate Research grants. Two teams from the Centre won the prestigious Wageningen University grant for Food System Challenge.
• Involvement in Key University Activities: Student workers played significant roles in supporting various university Centres, Units, Departments, etc.
• Enhanced Capacity Building: The SES project team developed innovative tools, such as the SIWES Animation Teacher (SWAT 1.0 and 2.0), the first of its kind in any Nigerian university, the CSSME communication App in the google play store, several digital channels to enhance productive and creative engagement of students participating in the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme, Student Employment and Mentoring Schemes.
• The first ever University of Abuja SIWES handbook and optimized logbook was developed in his tenure as Vice Chancellor.
• Not less than 30 student workers graduated with First Class honours from the 25th to 28th convocation ceremonies.
As we bid farewell to our beloved Vice Chancellor, we do so with hearts full of gratitude, admiration and well wishes for his greater elevation in bigger places. Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah’s vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication to student welfare have left an indelible imprint on students collective consciousness. Though he may move on from our midst, his legacy will endure; he is a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Professor Na’Allah as he embarks on new adventures. May the same spirit of innovation, compassion, and excellence that defined his tenure continue to guide him on his journey. Farewell, dear Vice Chancellor, and may the world be forever enriched by your boundless passion and vision. May you be richly blessed for your kind heart and unwavering determination to raise a generation of trailblazing youths. Indeed Professor Na’Allah, is a bedrock of youth development and empowerment.
Dr Ogunlade-Anibasa, Grace Oyiza
Director, CSEM/CSIWES
A pro-democracy group, the Progressive Group for Democracy (PGD), has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and stop local government officials in Lagos State from pursuing unconstitutional third terms in upcoming council elections.
The group alleges that officials in Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) are exploiting legal loopholes to extend their tenures, in violation of Nigeria’s Constitution.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, PGD National Coordinator Aladesanmi Abiodun Salawu described the move as a “clear violation” of constitutional provisions and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
He invoked President Tinubu’s historical opposition to tenure elongation, referencing the president’s fierce resistance to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term bid in the early 2000s.
“As a pro-democracy group, we are reminded of President Tinubu’s fierce opposition to Obasanjo’s third-term agenda. President Tinubu stood firmly against constitutional manipulation then. Where is the president’s voice now?” Salawu asked.
The PGD alleges that the officials in question assumed office following the deaths of elected chairpersons, took oaths of office, and later won full terms in subsequent elections.
“Their current bids for re-election, the group argues, constitute an unconstitutional third term. Salawu cited the Fourth Alteration to the Constitution, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, which prohibits individuals from seeking a third term after completing a predecessor’s tenure and winning a subsequent election.
“Today, we stand at a very dangerous crossroads. The same anti-democratic forces that our heroes fought against during the June 12 struggle are re-emerging in Lagos State,” Salawu said.
“In Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri LCDAs, we are witnessing a calculated attempt to normalise constitutional violations through the backdoor.”
The group also criticised Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, accusing him of complicity due to his silence on the issue. “As the chief security officer of Lagos State, (Sanwo-Olu)has a constitutional duty to uphold the rule of law. His silence is not just concerning; it is complicity,” Salawu said.
The PGD urged President Tinubu to publicly denounce the third-term bids and called on the Attorney General of the Federation to issue an advisory on term limits for local government administrations.
It also demanded that the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) disqualify candidates seeking unconstitutional terms.
“These individuals in Agbado Oke-Odo and Ikosi Isheri LCDAs must withdraw their candidacy immediately. We are not making a request; we are stating what the constitution already mandates,” Salawu declared.
The group vowed to challenge the alleged violations through legal means, including mobilising civil society, approaching the courts, and organising peaceful protests if necessary.
“The Lagos Society for Good Governance will utilise every legal means available to challenge this dangerous precedent,” Salawu added.
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
History was made again today at the National Assembly Service Commission NASC as the newly appointed as Executive Chairman,Dr Saviour Enyiekere and his Commissioners, was sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential villa to signify the beginning of another five years journey for the new management of the Commission.
Dr Enyiekere who was appointed along with his 12 commissioners representing the six geopolitical zones on 20th, February, 2025, assumed duty on 5th, May, 2025 few months after their appointment after been taking oath office.
He took the oath of office as the sixth National Assembly Service Commission Chairman since the inception of the Commission over four decades ago .
Until his appointment, Enyiekere, an environmental specialist, was the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President and had played a leading and strategic roles in the last 19 months before his elevation.
Soon after he took the oath office along with his commissioners , he assumed duty and was hosted by management and staff of the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and by extension, the National Assembly management led by Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana, the new Clerk to the National Assembly CNA.
Fresh and determined to make a difference,While acknowledging the audience along with his new commissioners , he described today’s occasion as unique with the date falling to 5/5/2025, stating his determination to work with all stakeholders at the NASC and NASS.
He eulogised the outgone leadership of the commission and also paid a glowing trubutes to the deceased ones , acknowledging their unique performance and contributions to the development of the commission in all areas.
Enyiekere who solicited for the cooperation of the management, staff and staff union , promised to prioritize the welfare and well-being of staff of the commission.
The New Executive Chairman , National Assembly Service Commission NASC, Dr Saviour Enyiekere also promised to work harmoniously with the management of the commission , staff, and members of Parliamentary Staff Association PASAN.
Dr Saviour who attracted a conference hall that was filled to capacity bare his mind of carrying all and sundry along in his new administration .
Assertive, young and brilliant to manage the affairs of the commission, he promised to promote and sustain the legacies of management and previous leadership saying their contributions was indelible on the sands of time.
He used the opportunity to appreciate Nigeria’s President and reiterated his commitment along with his commissioners to promote and protect the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with full support the leadership of the National Assembly under Senator Godswill Akpabio and Rt Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, lauding them for a job well-done and careful selection of the new Chairman and members/commissioners of the commission.
While describing the new responsibility as hectic and challenging, , saying with prayers , God will see us through.
Dr Saviour Enyiekere who promised to keep intact the good records of NASC management and the staff union , so as to ensure harmonious working relationship going forward.
During the handing over ceremony, The Secretary to the Commission, Mr
Lucky U. Ikharo, while presenting the handover documents to the new NASC boss, pledged the total commitment of the NASC Management towards the effective performance of the Commission’s assignment.
Speaking further during the handing and talking over ceremony at the Commission’s Conference Room, the new NASC boss told officials of the National Assembly Service that his leadership would emphasise the welfare of the workers of the Service, harmonious working relationship and productivity.
The new Chairman and his commissioners anxious to make a difference asked all stakeholders to extend their fellowship, admonition and possibly corrections.
Dr Saviour , a grassroot politician , with indepth experience in civil and political exposure, promised to make a difference without further delay .
The entire National Assembly Service Commission NASC bounced back to life after three months since the exit of the former Executive Chairman , National Assembly Service Commission NASC, Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE.
Highlights of the occasion included group photograph, media interview and interactions with the management and staff of both the National Assembly Service Commission NASC, National Assembly leadership led by Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana along with the new commissioners.
With his assumption of duty and his promises, no doubt a new dawn has encapsulated and heralded the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and his leadership.
In a goodwill message, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana, assured the new Commission of the full co-operation of the National Assembly Management towards achieving success. He, however, pleaded with the Commission to carry the National Assembly Management along on key decision-making.
The Honourable Commissioners that reported to duty alongside the Chairman include: Mr. Hanmation Mark Tersoo and Mr. Salisu Umar Agboola-Balogun (North-Central); Alhaji Lawan Maina Mahmud and Aminu Ibrahim Malle (North-East); Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi and Hon Yusuf A. Tabuka (North-West), Chief Festus Ifesinachi Odii (South-East), Mary Samuel Ekpenyong and Mr Patrick Giwa (South-South), Mrs Taiwo Olukemi Oluga and Ipesa-Balogun, Afeez (South-West, with
The Honourable Commissioners that reported to duty alongside the Chairman include: Mr. Hanmation Mark Tersoo and Mr. Salisu Umar Agboola-Balogun (North-Central); Alhaji Lawan Maina Mahmud and Aminu Ibrahim Malle (North-East); Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi and Hon Yusuf A. Tabuka (North-West), Chief Festus Ifesinachi Odii (South-East), Mary Samuel Ekpenyong and Mr Patrick Giwa (South-South), Mrs Taiwo Olukemi Oluga and Ipesa-Balogun, Afeez (South-West), with Festus Ifesinachi Odii not yet resume from the South-East .
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
By Capt. Caleb Danladi Bako
The global shipping industry is the lifeblood of international trade, with nearly 90% of goods transported by sea. Behind this vast network of commerce are the seafarers professionals whose dedication keeps the world’s economy afloat. Yet, while the focus often falls on operational efficiency, safety, and environmental concerns, an equally critical aspect remains largely in the shadows: the mental health and wellbeing of those who spend months away from home, isolated and often battling invisible struggles.
Having worked both at sea and now within the maritime industry ashore, we have witnessed firsthand the emotional challenges faced by seafarers. Life at sea is often romanticized, but the reality is far more complex. Prolonged isolation, communication barriers, high-pressure environments, and the unpredictability of life at sea contribute to a unique mental health crisis that has, for too long, gone unspoken.
A seafarer’s life revolves around routines, watches, and operations that leave little room for personal downtime. The absence of family support systems limited recreational facilities, and minimal mental health resources onboard amplify feelings of loneliness and helplessness. Recent studies, including those by the Mission to Seafarers and the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), reveal alarming rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation among crew members. These findings highlight a pressing need for the industry to prioritize mental health with the same seriousness as physical safety.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed and intensified these struggles. Hundreds of thousands of seafarers were stranded aboard ships, unable to disembark for months beyond their contracts. Crew change crises turned ships into floating prisons, exacerbating feelings of abandonment and mental exhaustion.
Though some shipping companies have since introduced mental health initiatives such as access to tele-counselling and mental wellness apps, these measures are still the exception rather than the norm.
Mental health challenges at sea are not merely personal struggles; they can have direct safety implications. Fatigue, anxiety, and depression diminish focus and decision-making ability, increasing the risk of accidents. Thus, protecting seafarers’ wellbeing is not only a moral obligation but a safety imperative for the entire industry.
As industry experts and former seafarers, we believe urgent cultural change is required. Shipping companies must move beyond token programs to embed mental health care into the fabric of maritime operations.
Practical steps include mandatory mental health training, confidential support systems, improved internet connectivity for family contact, regular shore leave, and destigmatization of seeking help.
It is time to bring the untold struggles of seafarers into the light. By acknowledging their mental health needs and committing resources to support them, we honor not only their critical role in global trade but their fundamental humanity.
Capt. Caleb Danladi Bako
Maritime expert and Academic Researcher
E-mail: Caleb.Danladi@plymouth.ac.uk, dancb2k@yahoo.com
Phone: +2348064218253