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A Journey Of Purpose: Sharing My Chevening Story Of Impact And Hope
A Journey Of Purpose: Sharing My Chevening Story Of Impact And Hope....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Within me burns a fervent fire of excitement as I prepare to share my Chevening journey. It’s a narrative that traverses the realms of humanitarian development, social justice, and community building, radiating an unyielding hope that this voyage will enrich my knowledge and empower me to give back to my communities more profoundly.
Though not the most enthusiastic writer, I am driven to convey my Chevening story through words. My odyssey toward social impact commenced officially upon graduating from the University of Benin in 2007. Subsequently, as part of my mandatory one-year service to the nation through the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), I embarked on a transformative expedition to Northern Nigeria, specifically Yobe state.
As a freshly minted law graduate, the conventional path led me to the NYSC legal aid group. Yet, destiny had other plans, drawing me inexorably to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Community Development Service (CDS) group, now Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In no time, I recognized that I had discovered my true calling. The MDG service group ignited a flame within me, fanning the flames of my innate interest in humanitarian service. Here, I found a purpose that transcended the confines of a conventional legal career. In the heart of Yobe state, I began to perceive the tremendous potential for positive change through community engagement, development, and social impact.
Growing up during oppressive military regimes in Nigeria, I witnessed firsthand assaults on human rights, blatant disregard for citizens’ dignity, and systemic exclusion that gradually became the norm. These early experiences, along with the stories of my parents and the community around me, deeply affected me, instilling a determination to use my education and skills effectively to make a difference in the lives of those most in need. More than three decades later, I remain steadfast on that path.
These experiences marked the genesis of my journey, one I embarked upon with unwavering commitment. The desire to create a meaningful impact on the lives of the less privileged compelled me to pursue further education and professional opportunities in development and human rights.
Over the past year, restlessness overcame me as I contemplated more effective ways to channel my passion. I encountered situations that prompted me to think, “There must be more we can do!”
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey was the realization that change was attainable, even in the face of adversity. Beyond isolated and collaborative efforts to address the daily needs of citizens and communities, I believe it is crucial, even imperative, to tackle systemic imbalances and pursue holistic development.
Today, I find myself at a new juncture in my journey—as a Chevening scholar. This invaluable opportunity allows me to enhance my knowledge and skills in the field of development, alongside like-minded individuals from around the world. Together, we share a commitment to effecting positive change in our homelands and on a global scale. I stand on the brink of this new chapter, my Chevening journey.
Learning that Chevening received a total of 70,930 applications from 160 countries, with 14,700 originating from Nigeria alone, filled me with immense gratitude when I received the news of being one of the 44 scholars selected. This path, my Afro-consciousness, my Chevening scholarship, and all the in-between moments are not mere accidents. My steps were meticulously orchestrated, even when I had no inkling of the next one.
Now, I embark on a journey to enrich my knowledge while pursuing an MSc in Development Studies at the prestigious University of London. The curriculum of the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) enticed me, particularly its cultural context.
Each day since I was chosen for Chevening, I have been keenly aware of the immense responsibility that accompanies this opportunity. My aspiration is to deepen my knowledge and expertise, delving into the intricacies of humanitarian development and social justice. I aim to equip myself with the skills required to bring about enduring change and positive impact.
At this juncture, I must express my gratitude to everyone who played a part in this process—my support system. These individuals, often unaware of the roles they played, have been instrumental in my journey.
To my dear friend Nura Ali, my personal hand-holder, whose unwavering faith, friendship, and support inspire me endlessly—my gratitude knows no bounds.
To Oluseun Abimbola SAN, my esteemed big brother who is always available to provide guidance and counsel, regardless of the hour. His vast knowledge and comforting words are a constant source of strength.
To Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, for whom mere words cannot suffice, but endless gratitude for recognizing potential in me even when I saw only a seed. Uli Thum, a professional friend of rare value, who left an indelible mark on my journey—thank you, Uli!
To my comrade and friend, Tunji Buhari, who patiently listens to my rants and laments until they transform into ideas and solutions.
To my fellow CIVICUS consultant-turned-brother and Chevening Scholar Kenneth Gyamerah, who tirelessly answers my numerous questions, offering more illumination than I ever imagined on this journey.
To my cheerleader sister, Joke Akinsanmi, who attracts good fortune with her boundless goodwill. Thank you for providing an outlet when I needed it most. To my prayer-pillar brother, Dayo Ige, who works diligently behind the scenes, and my unwavering physical warrior and brother, De
ji Ige, who defends me against my worries—I owe this to all of you.
To all the communities of women, children, and men whose lives I have touched in nearly two decades of community building, I am profoundly grateful for the privilege to effect change and speak truth to power during pivotal moments.
Deep appreciation to my colleagues and comrades at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), led by Akinbode Oluwafemi. This narrative would be incomplete without your presence.
Finally, to the one person who would have been elated about this achievement if he were alive: Rev. Fr. Ezekiel Ade Owoeye, my firm and grounded director at JDPC Ibadan. This is for you. Continue to rest in peace.
I long to return to my communities, armed with additional knowledge and fresh perspectives. I envision a future in which I can contribute even more effectively, where my actions resonate deeper and impact more lives. As I take these strides forward, I carry with me the wisdom of the past, the inspiration of the future, and an unwavering belief that together, we can make the world a better place.
In conclusion, I am not only eager to share my Chevening story; I am enthusiastic about living it to the fullest—learning, growing, and returning home with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to give back in a more meaningful way.
As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I am that child.
Former presidential aide Babafemi Ojudu has strongly criticized a Nigerian musician for comparing himself to the late Afrobeats legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Naija News reports that Wizkid recently clashed online with Seun Kuti, Fela’s son, claiming he was greater than the Afrobeat pioneer.
In a detailed Facebook post on Wednesday, Ojudu described Fela as an unparalleled cultural and musical icon whose influence transcends generations.
“Is it true that a Nigerian youngster said he is greater than Fela? I sincerely hope he was misquoted,” Ojudu wrote. “Even if he were to live ten lifetimes, his art and his life could not measure up to Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.”
Ojudu highlighted Fela’s monumental contributions to music, activism, and African consciousness, calling him “a movement, a conscience, a revolution in human form.”
“Fela was not just a musician; he was a movement, a conscience, a revolution in human form. His music gave birth to Afrobeat—a genre now studied in universities worldwide, sampled by global superstars, and performed on the world’s greatest stages,” he added.
The former aide praised Fela’s courage and originality, emphasizing how his music challenged oppression and corruption during Nigeria’s military era.
“Fela stood alone, fearless in the face of military dictatorships, unapologetic in resisting oppression. He used his music as a weapon against injustice, corruption, colonial mentality, and state violence. He was arrested over 200 times, brutalized, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and silenced, yet never broken,” Ojudu said.
He also recalled the personal sacrifices Fela endured, including the murder of his mother, the burning of his home—the Kalakuta Republic—and the seizure of his property, yet he remained defiant.
“His mother was murdered by the state. His house was burned to the ground. His property seized. He was flogged, beaten, and jailed from Alagbon to Panti, hounded by police and soldiers alike. Yet after every assault, Fela returned with sharper lyrics, deeper rhythms, and more defiant truth,” Ojudu wrote.
In a sharp warning, he said anyone daring to compare themselves to Fela “must first walk the corridors of Nigerian jailhouses” and endure the persecution Fela faced.
“For any young person, musician or not, to compare himself to Fela, he must first experience police cells and military tribunals, lose everything, go into exile, and still return with his creative spirit intact,” Ojudu said.
He underscored Fela’s enduring legacy as “a multi-instrumentalist, composer, bandleader, philosopher, and cultural theorist” whose influence remains global.
“Fela did not chase acceptance. The world came to him,” he added.
Concluding, Ojudu dismissed Wizkid’s claim as unworthy of attention.
“So, whoever made such a claim should simply be ignored. He may be one of those who would flee the country the moment the police knock once on his car window in Ojuelegba. Fela did not run. Fela stood. Fela fought. And Fela remains immortal. Anikulapo, the man who carried death in his pouch,” Ojudu wrote.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld the exclusion of Labour Party (LP) candidates from the upcoming Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, scheduled for February 21.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, Justice Peter Lifu refused to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to accept or publish the list of candidates submitted by the Labour Party.
The court dismissed the suit, filed by the Labour Party and its candidates against INEC under case number FHC/ABJ/CS/2110/2025, on the grounds that it was statute-barred.
Justice Lifu noted that the matter was a pre-election dispute under the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and was not filed within the legally required timeframe. While the Labour Party filed the suit on October 7, 2025, the cause of action—the exclusion of its candidates by INEC—occurred on October 22, 2025.
The judge referenced Section 285(14)(c) of the Constitution, which requires pre-election suits to be filed within 14 days of the cause of action. “Having not been filed within the statutory period, this court no longer has the jurisdiction to entertain the matter,” he ruled.
Justice Lifu also noted that a similar case involving the same parties was pending before a High Court in Nasarawa State, which he said suggested forum shopping and further weakened the Labour Party’s position.
The Labour Party had argued that INEC acted unlawfully by excluding its candidates and omitting its logo from the list of participating parties, despite sending letters to the INEC Chairman on September 8 and October 2, 2025, which went unanswered. The party maintained that without court intervention, it would be unfairly denied the chance to field candidates in the FCT council elections.
However, the court rejected all reliefs sought by the LP and dismissed the case entirely.
INEC’s decision to exclude Labour Party candidates was influenced by the ongoing leadership crisis within the party, which prevented the electoral body from recognising the list of candidates submitted by its rival factions.
A retired Nigerian Army Major General, Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi, has urged a thorough investigation into the release of 48 terrorism financing suspects, including a man identified by foreign intelligence agencies as a top Boko Haram leader, who were previously held by the military.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Ali-Keffi, who in October 2020 was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari to lead the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW), described the circumstances surrounding their release as a major national security concern. OSW, which included personnel from the military, intelligence agencies, and legal officers from the Attorney-General’s office, was tasked with investigating terrorism financiers and collaborators.
In an interview with SaharaReporters, Ali-Keffi revealed that the task force collaborated with 33 countries, including the US, UK, and the EU, through the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). He alleged that the National Assembly failed to investigate the matter due to compromises involving a former Army chief.
According to Ali-Keffi, OSW had arrested 48 individuals tied to terrorism financing, including a principal Boko Haram leader as identified by Western and Middle Eastern intelligence agencies. He claimed that substantial counterterrorism funds were diverted to prominent military and government officials, including some National Assembly members, and suggested that putting the suspects on trial would have exposed this misappropriation.
Ali-Keffi further alleged that some of the suspects operated Bureau De Change firms as fronts to launder funds both for officials and Boko Haram operations. He specifically questioned the release of Hima Abubakar, whose $600 million offshore account was traced by the NFIU.
“Who ordered the release of these 48 terror financing suspects? Why were they freed without trial? And why did the government request the US to unfreeze Abubakar’s $600 million account despite prior indictments by the Committee on Defence and Arms Procurement (CADEP)?” he asked.
He also condemned the release of Alhaji Saidu Ahmed, aka Saidu Gold, identified as a top Boko Haram leader, despite intelligence linking him to recruits later jailed in Dubai for terrorism.
Ali-Keffi recalled that the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, had started a forensic audit into counterterrorism funds and unfinished procurement projects but died days before acting on the findings, which he claimed were suppressed.
He called for a full-scale investigation into terrorism financing and the handling of counterterrorism funds, warning that a public release of OSW’s findings would implicate many military and government officials, including lawmakers.
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