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Nigeria: Why We Are Where We Are (1) Fola Ojo

Ojo has wondered why other big or small countries have what he described as “alluring testaments” while Nigeria is plunged to what he called “undeserved and endless troubles in all endeavours.”

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The founder of City of Praise Milwaukee, Wisconsin United States, a journalist and contributing columnist with The PUNCH, one of the biggest and largest African newspapers with headquarters in Lagos, Folahan William Ojo, has shade light on why Nigeria is where it is.

Ojo has wondered why other big or small countries have what he described as “alluring testaments” while Nigeria is plunged to what he called “undeserved and endless troubles in all endeavours.”

He queries why Nigeria bears the “Giant of Africa” title “in abundant and abounding divine endowments in human and natural resources,” while “the country is still far away from that place in history from where milk and honey flow.”

Ojo juxtaposes Japanese exports of around $717 billion without a single drop of crude oil, with Nigeria which possesses enormous natural resources deposited in its soil in different regions.

The full read :

I love studying up on nations. Mine is a ravishing interest in stories of leaders with great visions and their countries doing exploits economically even with minimal natural resources. Moments I stumble on enamouring stories of big and small countries, a natural reflex in me immediately juxtaposes their alluring testaments with Nigeria’s undeserved and endless troubles in all endeavours.

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Despite the Giant of Africa’s abundant and abounding divine endowments in human and natural resources, the country is still far away from that place in history from where milk and honey flow. Regrettably, many countries with economic success stories do not possess a third of the natural gifts Nigeria can boast of. It is why I ask this question this week: Why is Nigeria where she is as a nation?

I love studying up on nations. Mine is a ravishing interest in stories of leaders with great visions and their countries doing exploits economically even with minimal natural resources. Moments I stumble on enamouring stories of big and small countries, a natural reflex in me immediately juxtaposes their alluring testaments with Nigeria’s undeserved and endless troubles in all endeavours.

Despite the Giant of Africa’s abundant and abounding divine endowments in human and natural resources, the country is still far away from that place in history from where milk and honey flow. Regrettably, many countries with economic success stories do not possess a third of the natural gifts Nigeria can boast of. It is why I ask this question this week: Why is Nigeria where she is as a nation?

Japan is a mountainous, volcanic island country, and the world’s fourth largest economy. It is the largest importer of coal and liquefied natural gas; and the second largest importer of crude oil.  Its natural resources are fish and scanty mineral resources. Japan exports automobiles, consumer electronics, computers, semiconductors, copper, iron, and steel. This country with no drop of crude oil has exports of around $717 billion. And Nigeria has much more than Japan in resources, but no testaments of remarkable progress.

Less than 600 miles from Japan is South Korea; the world’s 13th largest economy.  The World Bank once submitted that South Korea went from an African standard nation (on a par with Ghana) in the 1960s to one of the world’s leading industrial powerhouses today. Like Japan, her mineral resources are sparse. Exports are around $632 billion and highly dependent on foreign-imported materials. On the other side of South Korea is Italy; the world’s 10th largest economy and a leading industrial nation.

Natural resources here too are scanty. And Italian land is not commodious for farming. To a limited and minimal extent in this dispensation, Nigeria grows a portion of her food, but Italy cannot touch what Nigeria has touched in agricultural ‘revolution.’ The country imports most of its food, imports 99.7 per cent of its solid fuels demand, 92.5 per cent of oil, and 91.2 per cent of natural gas. Most raw materials needed for manufacturing are imported. But Italy’s total annual exports are $626 billion. Every state in Nigeria has natural resources in varying commercial quantities, but millions are still hungry and poor. Why are we where we are?

Singapore also has very few natural resources. This tiny island has become one of the world’s most prosperous and advanced economies. Singapore imports everything she needs, including water from neighbouring Malaysia. Forty-eight per cent of Singaporean exports are made up of re-exports. They import raw goods and refine them for export purposes. The tiny island produces 10 per cent of the world’s semiconductor wafer. Singapore’s exports total $638 billion. It is currently the 31st largest economy in the world. Nigeria has an overwhelming advantage to do much better than all these nations put together, but we are still stuck where we are, and we keep asking why.

Switzerland is a completely landlocked country but the natural inconvenience is not a hindrance to the nation becoming one of the world’s leading exporters. Its annual exports run to about $629 billion. Switzerland has virtually no natural resources, and its annual trade balance is usually in the red, owing to the economy’s reliance on large quantities of imported raw materials for industry. Switzerland has a very strong food processing and confectionery industry, producing multinational food companies like Nestle, and luxurious watch-manufacturing, with well-known global brands such as Rolex and Swatch. The country is the 20th largest economy in the world. In development, Nigeria is hundreds of years behind Switzerland, and with our endowment, must this be so?

Nigeria is an island of wealth, a trough of tintinnabulation treasures, a penstock of prosperousness, a depository of abundant and abounding natural resources, the home of innumerable sages, an arsenal of intellectuals, the harbour of highbrows, and a human assemblage of geeks and deft double-domes with nothing much to show for the divine bestowment. Juxtaposing Nigeria’s wealth with the prevalent extant poverty firestorm ravaging the country is a noisome paradox and a fetid contradiction.

Nigeria is the 12th largest oil producer in the world and has the 10th largest proven oil reserves. Iron ore, coal, tin, columbite, limestone, lead, zinc, gold, silver and more litter our land. Our fertile soil, forests, and water resources make it suitable for crops like cocoa, rubber, palm oil, and tropical fruits to grow in abundance.  Significant deposits of uranium are found in some parts of the North and large deposits of bitumen are found in the southwestern region. Nigeria is blessed beyond measure. Unlike other nations with no incomparable profitable resources, the country’s total export for 2022 was a paltry $70 billion derived solely from crude oil and its products.

With Nigeria’s vast wealth, it shouldn’t be a sticky wicket if every Nigerian desires to drive an expensive jeep or rest their hurting bones on water beds in mansions. This should be a cinch. But an average Nigerian is not asking for too much from their government or driven by the morbid ambition of big bank accounts. They want to feed their families and desire a safe place to raise their children. Give Nigerians good roads, rebuild their run-down schools, revamp the rickety hospitals, provide regular power supply, and flood the market with enough and affordable food items, and Nigerians are satisfied.  That is not too much to ask for in a country that has more than enough. But the dream of an average Nigerian to live a decent life seems far from actualisation because corruption will not allow it.

Nigeria’s natural resources have the potential to drive economic growth and development but their exploitation and management have been affected by various challenges, including corruption. The corruption carnival in Nigeria is not quieting down. The magnitude of the evil is Brobdingnagian in nature and grows with every government in power. A free-for-all fiesta of stealing among men and women with access to power now appears like the norm. Blisteringly unapologetic thieves and coddlers of blizzards of corruption are still subtly watering the ancient wall. These garroting and goading beings continue to pillage our patrimonies in a frenzy. Over 60 years after independence, corruption in Nigeria is still considered an unchangeable lifestyle. With corruption, no country has a tomorrow. It is the reason Nigerians are not getting what they must get by right. This is why we are where we are.

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Global Affairs

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls. Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.

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Iran–Israel War Escalates in today’s Attacks

Latest Developments

  • Israel’s Operation Rising Lion launched coordinated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites (Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow), key IRGC commanders, and missile infrastructure—including in Tehran—claiming “total air superiority” (theguardian.com).
  • Iran retaliated with over 300 missiles and drones, landing in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other regions (apnews.com).

Current Casualties & Damage

  • Iran: Health Ministry reports 224 killed, ~1,277 injured; independent sources suggest up to 400+ deaths, many civilians, with extensive damage to city infrastructures—water, power, hospitals (theguardian.com).
  • Israel: Official sources confirm 24 civilian deaths, ~60–500 injured from Iranian strikes (apnews.com).

Official Statements

President Donald Trump

  • Urged all Tehran residents to vacate right away; left G7 early to address crisis (reuters.com).
  • Pushed for a “real deal” nuclear agreement with Iran, denying ceasefire claims (reuters.com).

Israeli Government (PM & IDF)

  • PM Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as many days as needed to neutralize the threat”—emphasizing hits on nuclear/scientific and missile facilities (understandingwar.org).
  • The military claims destruction of 120 missile launchers (~1/3 of Iran’s stockpile) and “total air superiority” over Tehran (theguardian.com).

Iranian Response


Humanitarian Impact & Civilian Exodus

  • Over 100,000 Tehran residents have fled northwards to Mazandaran, Gilan, and Alborz provinces (en.wikipedia.org).
  • Reports of fuel shortages, hospital strain, internet blackouts, and psychological distress are emerging (en.wikipedia.org).

🔮 What’s Next?

  1. Further military escalation — Iran may strike U.S. or allies if intervention continues (understandingwar.org).
  2. Nuclear diplomacy in limbo — Iran paused talks pending Israeli ceasefire; Trump supports negotiation .
  3. Broader regional ripple effects — Proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias, could escalate (en.wikipedia.org).
  4. Global economic disruptions — Oil prices spiked after Tehran warnings; airlines diverted flights (en.wikipedia.org).

Biblical Perspective

  • Operation Rising Lion invokes Isaiah 31:4 (“As a lion… roars!”), reinforcing Israel’s belief in its God-given resolve (newarab.com).
  • Some Christian prophecy scholars see this as part of eschatological build-up (Ezekiel 38, Isaiah 17)—though cautioned by others to avoid hasty conclusions (forums.crosswalk.com).
  • Biblical themes abound: calls for justice, divine defense, and the lament over cities under siege echo Psalms and prophets (e.g., Lamentations 2:1; Joel 3:2). Prayer for peace and wisdom is urged.

Key Takeaways

  • The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls.
  • Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.
  • Expect continued conflict, potential negotiations, and regional escalation.
  • Many believers are interpreting the events through biblical lenses—prayers for peace are critical.

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Global Affairs

Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

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Trackingtimes News & Politics

Historical Background

Since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, tensions with Israel have grown over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy militias like Hezbollah. Israel has consistently opposed any perceived existential threat. This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts are mostly orchestrated from the shadows. This rivalry has rarely escalated into full-scale war.


Most Recent Updates & Casualties

🛑 Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” (Started June 13)

  • Targets hit: Over 100 Iranian sites—including Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, IRGC bases, missile production plants, Tehran’s Ministry of Defense HQ, and oil/fuel depots near Tehran (english.mathrubhumi.com, theguardian.com, en.wikipedia.org, wsj.com).
  • Casualties in Iran: At least 78–224 killed (including 20+ senior commanders such as Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri, Gen Hossein Salami, Gen Gholam Ali Rashid, Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh); 6–14 nuclear scientists killed; hundreds wounded; many civilians among victims (theguardian.com).
  • Notable death: Brigadier Gen Mehdi Rabbani and his family were killed in one strike (en.wikipedia.org).

🇮🇷 Iranian Retaliation

  • Missile & drone attacks: Waves launched at Tel Aviv and Haifa; 65 ballistic missiles and scores of drones fired (theguardian.com).
  • Casualties in Israel: At least 14–24 killed and ~390 injured; critical infrastructure—including a power plant and U.S. Embassy wing—was damaged (theguardian.com).

Official Statements

Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

“Israel opened its wicked and blood‑stained hand… will receive a bitter and painful fate… severe punishment awaits.” (thedailyguardian.com)

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We acted pre‑emptively to prevent Iran’s nuclear bomb… we’ll do what we need to do. Regime change is possible.” (ft.com)

USA – President Donald Trump

“We were aware of the impending Israeli operation… working behind the scenes on a deal… vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader… unprecedented retaliation if Iran targets the U.S.” (theguardian.com)


🌍 Regional & Global Impacts

Middle East

  • New proxy wars erupt across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Oil markets surged, then stabilized—global energy remains vulnerable .
  • Gulf and NATO countries deploy military to deter escalation amid high tensions (theguardian.com).

USA

  • Supports Israel’s missile defenses and may deploy naval vessels.
  • Oil price fluctuations could worsen inflation.
  • Diplomatic pressure mounts with vetoes and summit-level interventions .

Africa

  • Rising oil prices strain developing economies.
  • Cargo and shipping risks impact African trade.
  • Diaspora populations in Africa may intensify local debates or protests via spiritual and cultural channels.

📖 Historical & Biblical Lens

  • Biblical parallels: Books like Ezekiel (chapters 38–39) discuss invasions from the North targeting Israel. Some interpret modern Iranian threats through this prophetic narrative.
  • Spiritual implications: Maxwell Nnawuihe’s teachings on justice, fearlessness, and faith echo strongly amid this crisis.
  • Economic ties: Faith & Fortune Finance’s messages on biblical stewardship and fiscal resilience are directly relevant as nations and individuals face uncertainty.

🕊️ Pathways to Peace

  1. U.N.-mediated ceasefire with verified arms monitoring to halt further strikes.
  2. Inclusive regional security framework involving Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria to reduce proxy aggression.
  3. Faith-driven diplomacy: Interfaith councils (Christian-Muslim-Jewish) promoting reconciliation, trust-building, and shared economic ventures.
  4. Economic resilience programs: Channel resources into reconstruction and economic stability—aligning with themes from Faith & Fortune Finance’s “Kingdom Wealth” strategy.

  • Faith & Fortune Finance’s content tied to economic resilience:
  • “Biblical Wealth Under Crisis”
  • “Kingdom Finances When Markets Shake”

Maxwell Nnawuihe’s video on prophetic motivation and fearless leadership:

“Courageous Voices Precede Peace”

Conclusion

This Israel–Iran conflict marks a historic escalation, with devastating strikes, high-profile casualties, and global political impact. Blending historical, biblical, and economic insight provides deeper understanding—and grounds your YouTube channels in relevance.

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Biafra

Tinubu Refused To Honour Our Agreement To Release Nnamdi Kanu After Election– Kanu’s Brother

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

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Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has said they had an agreement with President Bola Tinubu for the release of his elder brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Emmanuel disclosed that he had the pact with Tinubu’s son, Seyi, in Abuja before the 2023 presidential election.

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

According to him, it was agreed that IPOB would not bycott the polls on the condition that Tinubu would release Kanu if elected President.

Prince Emmanuel expressed disappointment that nearly two years after the emergence of Tinubu as President, his brother (Kanu), has continued to languish in detention despite the fact that the presiding Judge, Justice Binta Nyako, had since recused herself from the matter.

He said it was disappointing that those who claimed to be honourable, failed to keep their words.

The statement read:”Before the last election, I received a message from an ex-governor that Seyi the son of President Tinubu wanted to see me. I agreed to meet with him on the condition that the overriding priority and hence the fulcrum of our discussion will be the release of my brother. The meeting was held in Abuja in the presence of another individual whom I asked along to witness the deliberations and if need be provide independent verification should the need arise.

“Seyi confirmed to me that his father sanctioned the meeting and that I should consider any agreement we reach as binding on the then candidate Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Justice Binta Nyako Steps Down From Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial, As He Fearlessly Scolds Her For Disobeying Supreme Court’s Judgment

Biafra: Justice Binta Nyako Directs Tinubu-led Fed. Govt. And Nnamdi Kanu To Pursue Reconciliation

Nnamdi Kanu Facing The Most Violation Of Fundamental Human Rights In The World- Ohanaeze Youth Council.

“In good faith we agreed that I shall relay the outcome to my brother to reinforce the long held tradition of IPOB not interfering with the conduct of elections, either through boycott or any other form of civil disobedience. This understanding was duly communicated to my brother and he reaffirmed his commitment not to stop the elections or order any boycott.

“When President Tinubu as a candidate visited Owerri during his campaign, he too reiterated his commitment to facilitate the release of my brother if elected. We took his public statement as a tacit reaffirmation of the understanding I reached with his son Seyi.

“At the end, IPOB did not call for election boycott despite having the capacity to do so. IPOB also made sure that discordant voices urging election boycott were overcome because election boycotts would not reflect well on the reputation of a global movement that prides itself on adherence to democratic tenets.

“It therefore, defies logic that nearly two years after President Tinubu assumed the mantle of leadership in Nigeria, my brother is still in detention despite not having any charge against him. It’s been over three months now that Justice Binta Nyako recused herself from the case yet no new judge has been assigned the case.

“This is on top of the fact that Appeal Court had earlier discharged him of the sham charges and ordered his release which the previous regime of Buhari declined to obey.

“Supreme Court determination that his bail ought not to have been revoked has been ignored by the courts and the government. The latest insult is that Abuja courts of all persuasion are no longer willing to determine the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on merit but are rather relying on ludicrous and inapplicable technicalities to stall the timely determination of his cases.

“The truth is that Nigerian courts cannot, will not and do not have both the substantive and procedural jurisdiction to try him. His detention is without the backing of any known law in Nigeria or elsewhere in the world.”

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