Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by MK Othman
Nigerian universities on the rise again: Salute to the FGN and Academia
Despite numerous challenges, including low wages, inadequate facilities, and dilapidated infrastructure, their struggles and sacrifices have built an enduring and resilient university system for Nigeria. Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) constitute the bulk of academia, and their struggles for a better university system were demonstrated through frequent industrial action: the “infamous” ASUU Strike.
Nigerian universities on the rise again: Salute to FGN and academia
The costs and consequences of the FGN-ASUU crisis in those years were devastating and indescribable, and they contributed to the deaths of several university lecturers during and after the 2022 industrial action.
Akoda develops AI technology to cut MRI scan time by 90%
Mary-Brenda Akoda, winner of the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, has developed artificial intelligence (AI) technology that reduces Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan time by up to 90 per cent. Akoda, an AI research scientist, founder of Genscan AI and former Microsoft engineer, disclosed this at the public presentation of the 2026 prize winner organised by Nigeria LNG Ltd. (NLNG) on Tuesday in Lagos.
Wike seeks German partnership on development
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday sought strategic development partnerships with German cities, particularly in agriculture, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and youth skills acquisition. Wike made the remarks when the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefan Rössel, visited him in Abuja. Welcoming the envoy, the minister highlighted the decades-long economic, cultural and political ties between Nigeria and Germany.
World Bank, IFAD partner on rural development
The World Bank Group and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have signed a new co-financing agreement to scale up investments in rural economies, strengthen food systems and create jobs. The agreement was signed on Tuesday during the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Bangkok, Thailand.
Cisco highlights AI, Digital skills for Nigerian youths
Cisco Nigeria has identified artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and digital skills development as key drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for Nigerian youths. Cisco is a global technology company that offers skills-to-jobs programmes. Mr Ikechukwu Ibeawuchi, Government Affairs Manager at Cisco Nigeria, said this on the sidelines of the 14th Africa Information and Communication Technologies Alliance (AfICTA) Summit in Abuja.
FAO, Adamawa validate climate-resilient livelihoods plan
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), in collaboration with the Adamawa Government, has validated a climate-resilient livelihoods strategy to support vulnerable communities from 2026 to 2030. Prof. Yakaka Maina, FAO Natural Resources and Energy Specialist, disclosed this at a state-level validation workshop on Tuesday in Yola.
NCC urges Nigerians to verify SIM-enabled devices
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Tuesday urged Nigerians to verify the approval status of SIM-enabled devices before purchasing them. The Director of Technical Services and Network Integrity at the NCC, Edoyemi Ogoh, said this at a media roundtable in Abuja. “When buying a phone, tablet, modem or any device that uses a SIM, consumers should ask the seller whether it is NCC-approved and independently verify its approval status. “The process is very easy.
Nigerian universities on the rise again: Salute to the FGN and academia [II], By Prof. MK Othman
As humans, we are forgetful, but we should not forget the recent decline and devastating deterioration of Nigerian universities before the current political dispensation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Nigerian universities on the rise again: Salute to the FGN, academia
We recall that in the 2020 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, only Covenant University, Ota, fell within the top 500 globally. By the 2023 edition, a broader Nigerian movement was evident, recording the largest improvement in average overall score in Africa among countries with at least five institutions ranked: Twelve of our universities were ranked in the 1000 band, which was twice the previous number; the Universities of Ibadan and Lagos were in the 500 band.
My odyssey to Saudi Arabia and crying for my Nigerianness
The nostalgia of standing before the Holy Ka’aba, the divine house of Almighty Allah, is so powerful that one can’t help but raise their hands in prayer to return to that moment. Yes, whenever you’re saying goodbye to Saudi Arabia, one of your heartfelt prayers is to return soon for Hajj or Umrah, reflecting Makkah’s appeal to Muslims worldwide.
Nigerian road accidents: “New norms” adoption and docility of FRSC officers
A few years ago, on my way to Sokoto, I met a stern-looking road safety officer at the rail crossing of Tsafe town, Zamfara State, who demanded my vehicle’s particulars, which I delivered promptly. After examining the particulars, he demanded a triangle and a fire extinguisher, which I provided. When he found nothing amiss, he tried to operate the extinguisher and, in the process, broke the pressure head. We looked at each other, and he profusely apologised.
Adieu Inna Ladi, Sanusi, Almu, and Sani: April 2026 – the harvest of deaths
Three key figures, who profoundly shaped my life passed away on April 15, 17, and 29, 2026. While I mourned them, I also learned of the death of a former student and colleague. It was truly a season of loss. Death is inevitable; our holy book says every soul must taste it. We each die at our appointed time, regardless of the cause. Death never misses its schedule. As mortals, why obsess over worldly things, knowing we arrive in this world and leave it with nothing?
NELFUND: Renewed Hope of access to higher education in Nigeria
Hitherto, the journey toward higher education in this country has long been a test of endurance and sacrifice, especially for many families, whose dream of a university degree often comes at a steep price, forcing parents to make immense financial sacrifices. Still, some had to give up any form of education beyond primary school.
45th ABU Convocation: Okonjo-Iweala’s unpalatable message to Africa
Nigeria stands at a decisive crossroads. With youthful potential, resources, entrepreneurial drive, and intellectual talent, we still struggle with policy inaction, weak institutions, and overreliance on outside approval. I have highlighted how stories of competence and integrity can transform Nigeria’s global image. This aligns with university values: seeking truth, engaging in evidence-based dialogue, and nurturing active citizens.
GMO, seed system, and food security question in Nigeria
I have received many requests for information on GMO seeds and their safety, and I have watched several video clips that criticise GMOs with serious accusations. I decided to update my previous articles on GMOs and food security. Over the past seven years, I have written multiple articles on this subject, and this will be the fifth in a series about GMOs, covering their origins, threats, biosafety, and the launch of Tela maize and Pod Bora cowpea, the first GMOs in Nigeria.
Saudi Arabia’s unfair visa treatment to Nigerians
With the benefit of hindsight—drawing from my diverse experiences in a successful postgraduate programme in Europe and visits to several countries in Africa, America, and Asia—I believe that no nation merits my strenuous effort to visit except Saudi Arabia (SA). Earlier, I made three unsuccessful attempts to visit Saudi Arabia until 2010, when I persevered and performed my first Hajj operation.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has emphasised the importance of ensuring that hospitals, particularly Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs), have oxygen readily available for newborns who may need it. UNICEF Health Manager for Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (MNCAH) and HIV, Martin Dohlsten made this call in an interview on Monday in Abuja.
Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have announced a new 0.5% levy on imported goods from Nigeria and other Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member-nations. The development comes as they seek to fund a new three-state union after leaving the larger regional economic bloc, they said in a statement. According to an official statement by the trio, the levy was agreed on Friday and will take effect immediately.
Japan-Australia flagship hydrogen project stumbles
Japan wants to become a hydrogen fuel leader to meet its net-zero goals, but one blockbuster project is hanging in the balance over questions about its climate credentials. The Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain (HESC) is billed as a billion-dollar attempt to ship liquid hydrogen from Australia to Japan. However, cold feet about the project in Australia means HESC will source hydrogen from Japan to meet a 2030 deadline for its demonstration phase.
WHO implements strategic budgetary cuts, operational changes
The World Health Organization (WHO) is implementing significant budgetary reductions and operational changes following the United States’ decision to withdraw its membership and funding. An internal memo from WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus outlines immediate measures to address the financial shortfall. Effective immediately, the WHO will freeze all but the most critical staff recruitment and substantially reduce travel expenditures.
World’s third largest steelmaker posts nearly $1b loss
World number-three steelmaker Angang Steel lost nearly $1 billion last year, it said in a stock exchange filing, as the Chinese giant was hit by domestic overcapacity and poor demand. China’s steel sector has been under pressure from a prolonged slump in the country’s real estate market, traditionally a major consumer, that has hit demand in the world’s second-largest economy.
Saudi's Unfair Visa Treatment to Nigerians, By Prof. MK Othman
With the benefit of hindsight—drawing from my diverse experiences in a successful postgraduate program in Europe and visits to several countries in Africa, America, and Asia—I believe that no nation merits my strenuous effort to visit except Saudi Arabia (SA). I made three unsuccessful attempts to visit Saudi Arabia until 2010, when I persevered and performed my first Hajj operation. After that, I visited Saudi Arabia thrice, with my last visit occurring this year between March 16 and 27, 2025.
Readers’ comments: IBB memoir and Trump’s return
I intended to write about Natasha – the crisis involving Godswill Akpabio rocking the red chamber. However, the moment’s exigency and the issue’s sensitivity demand serious attention and time, preventing me from following through with my plan. The situation is frustrating, portraying the Senate as a trapped system, making it nearly impossible to meet people’s expectations and their yearning for the dividends of democracy. Shenanigans and name-calling are emerging in the red chamber.
Trump: Are his policies blessing to Africa in disguise?
The United States of America is an enigmatic political embodiment reflecting human creation’s true nature. The more you observe, the less you comprehend; a more profound analysis leads to further confusion. Otherwise, why would Americans, who triumphantly denied Trump a second term in 2020, consider bringing him back to the White House in 2024? President Donald Trump was denied a second term as president of the United States in the 2020 election due to political, social, and economic factors.
The Pan African Agricultural Journalists (PAAJ), has elected new officials to manage its affairs for the next two years. Declaring the results at the end of the election on Tuesday afternoon, the chairman of the PAAJ electoral committee and Gambian journalist, Dawda Bayohose announced that Nigerian Journalist and Editor-in-Chief of ASHENEWS, Abdallah el-Kurebe, was elected unopposed.
Sokoto Muslims appreciate Buhari’s Ramadan support
ASHENEWS reports that thousands of Muslims in Sokoto State have expressed gratitude to Mr. Yahaya Buhari for his annual Ramadan support, which includes the distribution of fabric and food items. Buhari who is the King of all Imam in Sokoto, has upheld a long-standing tradition of giving back to the community during the holy month. The Philantropist distributed 10 yards of yadedi fabric each to 500,000 people in the state on the third day of Ramadan.
New statistics by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) revealed that power generation climbed to 5,713.60 megawatts on Tuesday. The latest data by TCN pushes the country’s 2025 generation feat to the highest since four years ago. According to the TCN, the whole of the 5,713MW recorded on Tuesday was successfully transmitted. The country recorded a 5.543MW generation on February 14.
Gombe farmers relocate to farms over escalating hippo attacks
Farmers in Difa Community, Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area of Gombe State, now stay on their farms to keep watch due to increasing hippopotamus attacks on their crops. A Correspondent who visited farms in Difa on Tuesday, observed the presence of several makeshift houses built with guinea corn and sorghum stalks, which the farmers now use as shelters. Signs of prolonged stays were evident, with burnt stalks, cooking pots, plates, and mosquito nets scattered around the area.
FG launches irrigation project in Bauchi to boost food security
The Federal Government has launched the Irrigate Nigeria Project in Gamawa, Bauchi State, under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), in a move aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (OON) represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the official launch of the project, highlighting its significance in driving agricultural modernization, food security, and economic growth. Amb.
Group seeks Medicaid support for HPV elimination
The International Human Papillomavirus Society (IPVS) Nigeria Chapter has sought a partnership with the Medicaid Cancer Foundation to enhance its campaign for the elimination of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in Nigeria. The President of the IPVS Nigeria Chapter, Prof. Mohammed Manga, made the appeal in Abuja on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Medicaid office.
Cashew merchants seek govt intervention over extortion on Ogun roads
The Ogun chapter of National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) has raised an alarm over the persistent extortion of money from its members while transporting cashew nuts within the state. The Consultant on Special Duties for NCAN in Ogun, Mr Taiwo Akinlabi during a news conference on Monday in Abeokuta called for government intervention.
Adamawa, REA to unlock $1.9b investment through 300MW Solar PV Farm
The Adamawa State Government has signed a partnership agreement with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to attract a $1.9 billion investment through the development of a 300MW solar photovoltaic (PV) farm. The project’s potential will also create 40,000 new jobs, spanning various sectors, including engineering, construction, logistics, and maintenance.
Are His Policies Blessing Africa in Disguise? By Prof MK Othman
The United States of America is an enigmatic political embodiment reflecting human creation’s true nature. The more you observe, the less you comprehend; a more profound analysis leads to further confusion. Otherwise, why would Americans, who triumphantly denied Trump a second term in 2020, consider bringing him back to the White House in 2024? President Donald Trump was denied a second term as President of the United States in the 2020 election due to political, social, and economic factors.
#StopASUUStrike-Yayale's arduous tasks - Blueprint Newspapers Limited
The first part of this piece was published in this column on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. At that time, I only knew Yayale through newspapers and news media. Nevertheless, I wrote about his responsibilities, background, risks, and potential challenges related to his assignment.
Environmentalist warns against bush burning
An environmentalist, Dr Albert Lawan has cautioned against bush burning to protect the environment and preserve the ecosystem. Lawan, a Bauchi-based environmental expert, said this in an interview on Monday in Bauchi state. He said that bush burning was posing significant threats to the environment, human health and the economy, stressing that it was a destructive practice with far-reaching and devastating consequences.
Endocrinologist recommends white fish for diabetes patients
An Endocrinologist with Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, Dr Ayuba Mugana has advised diabetes patients to consume more white fish to boost immunity and for a healthy lifestyle. He gave the advice in an interview in Bauchi on Monday. White fish is a group of fish with white flesh and mild flavor, different from oily fish like salmon and tuna. Common types of white fish include cod, haddock, and sole, which are known for their versatility in cooking.
OAUTHC performs 55 cancer surgeries in 1 month
The Professor of Surgery, Surgical Oncology department, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Segun Alatise said the institution performed 55 cancer surgeries in one month. Alatise made the disclosure in an interview on Monday in Ile-Ife, Osun. He explained that 55 cancer surgeries were performed by the department in January.
States now mandate drug tests — NDLEA
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has recorded some achievements in its war against abuse of narcotic substances, especially with the cooperation of sub-nationals. The agency’s spokesman Femi Babafemi said some state governments in the country have embraced the NDLEA’s advocacy to make drug tests mandatory for appointees and employees. Babafemi made this known on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief breakfast programme on Monday.
WHO’s new air pollution roadmap gains strong support
The member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) have strongly backed a proposed roadmap to cut air pollution-related deaths by 50% by 2040. Meanwhile, a draft Climate Change and Health Action Plan received conditional approval, pending further negotiations before the May World Health Assembly. Developing nations, including China and African states, pushed for greater emphasis on “common but differentiated responsibilities” and climate resilience rather than just mitigation.
Norway, U.S., Canada top global pizza consumption
Norway has emerged as the world’s top pizza consumer, with an average consumption of 11.4 kg per person per year, according to a report by World Population Review. The Nordic nation leads a global ranking dominated by Western countries, with the United States (9.6 kg), Canada (8.9 kg), and Australia (8.6 kg) following closely behind. Italy, the birthplace of pizza, ranks fifth with 7.6 kg per capita, falling behind Switzerland (7.5 kg), Sweden (7.2 kg), and France (6.8 kg).
Yayale's Arduous Tasks (II), By Prof MK Othman
The first part of this piece was published in this column on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. At that time, I only knew Yayale through newspapers and news media. Nevertheless, I wrote about his responsibilities, background, risks, and potential challenges related to his assignment.
Gender Agenda: Woman as a vanguard of change in society
Is a man more powerful than a woman? A woman with a sound anatomic physique, high physiological, provocative, and sensitive intellectual inertia can be a conqueror and vanguard of societal change. God has made the world to be that of a woman for her to pick, use, and abuse. This is a woman’s world to the envy of a man. What is the reasonable request of a woman that a man can deny? More than two decades ago, the government-ASUU crisis was stalemated.
Nigeria’s aviation sector eyes green transformation with clean fuel roadmap
Nigeria is making strides to decarbonize its aviation sector by shifting to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) as part of a broader national commitment to cleaner energy.
CAPPA urges $250bn in annual funding for Africa’s climate fight
Africa needs approximately $250 billion annually to effectively tackle climate change, according to Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), which starkly contrasts the mere $30 billion the continent received in 2020.
How enhanced crops can transform Africa
Enhanced crops, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), improved hybrids, and other advanced agricultural technologies, bring significant benefits to Africa’s agricultural sector. By examining examples from advanced countries, we can identify specific ways these crops could improve food security, economic growth, and sustainability.
Kano: NMA demands dismissal of commissioner, issues ultimatum
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for the immediate sack of Kano State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi, over an alleged assault on a female doctor. The association has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state government, threatening to suspend medical services at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital if their demands were not met. In a statement jointly signed by Kano NMA Chairman, Dr. Abdurrahman Ali, and Secretary, Dr Ibrahim D.
Canon introduces RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM lens for immersive 3D storytelling
Canon has unveiled its latest innovation in 3D visual storytelling, the RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens, a tool designed to bring immersive 3D video and photography to more creators. Specifically engineered for Canon’s APS-C camera bodies, this compact, 130g lens offers impressive functionality and makes the once-specialized world of spatial video creation far more accessible to professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Woman as a Vanguard of Change in Society
Is a man more powerful than a woman? A woman with a sound anatomic physique, high physiological provocative, and sensitive intellectual inertia can be a conqueror and vanguard of societal change. God has made the world to be that of a woman for her to pick, use, and abuse. This is a woman’s world to the envy of a man. What is the reasonable request of a woman that a man can deny? More than two decades ago, the government-ASUU crisis was stalemated.
StopASUUStrike: Yayale’s arduous tasks
I resisted writing on the above subject for an apparent reason, but the force of necessity outweighs the force of resistance, and I have to cede to the momentum’s law.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with MK
Contact MK, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack