Rising Cyber-Jarumai: Navigating the Digital Battlefield

 

“Not to know is bad; not to wish to know is worse.”—African Proverb

 

Ah, October, the month of falling leaves, pumpkin-spiced everything, and, of course, Cybersecurity Awareness! As we ease out this remarkable month dedicated to the virtual vigilantes of the digital realm, let's embark on a satirical journey to explore the need for cyber awareness in Nigeria, a nation that's no stranger to the incredible dance of the cyber criminals.

Imagine, for a moment, a horde of Cyber-Jarumai led by a virtual Queen Amina of Zazzau or a Barbushe of Kano, fiercely defending their digital territory. Jarumai simply means heroes, in the form Greek Spartans.  In their quest for supremacy, they wield firewalls and antivirus swords, clad in the armour of secure passwords and knowledge, all while wearing the stylish cape of cyber vigilance. Chai, imagination wan ki mi! But, you may wonder, why should we, the ordinary citizens, concern ourselves with such matters?

The digital realm is as much a battlefield as any ancient battleground. It's where the economy thrives, personal data flows, and communication prospers. As we navigate this modern-day Iliad, the Cyber-Jarumai among us play a critical role in securing our virtual Troy (ganuwa) from the lurking Trojan horses.

Let's delve into the ironic side of things, shall we? Cybercrime can be quite the economic spoiler. Take, for instance, a scenario where an enterprising cybercriminal decides to ransack a financial institution. The result? Oh, just a little thing like potential financial chaos, loss of customer trust, and possibly even a dip in the country's economic growth. A mere trifle!

In a land where digital transactions have become as common as jollof rice at a party, cyberattacks on financial institutions can be as devastating as an inferno in Onisha market. Your hard-earned savings could vanish quicker than Suya at a Zaria Street corner! Dey play.

But fret not, dear citizens, for this is where our Cyber-Jarumai come to the rescue. In this Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let's align ourselves with the rising Cyber-Jarumai to reinforce our digital defenses. To do this, start by raising your awareness about common cyber threats, phishing scams, and secure online practices. Knowledge is your shield in this digital battlefield. Additionally, fortify your online presence by using strong, unique passwords, as simple ones are no match for the digital adversaries. Keeping your devices and software up to date is akin to maintaining your armour – a crucial element in defending the digital realm. Furthermore, don't hesitate to report any suspicions invader, be it a dubious email or website; timely reporting is your sword against cyber villains. In this collective effort, remember to share your knowledge of cyber hygiene with friends and family, for a united front is essential in this ongoing battle.

In the spirit of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let's embrace our roles as digital defenders, equipping ourselves with knowledge, vigilance, and a strong sense of collective responsibility. Together, we form a formidable force against cyber threats, ensuring a safer and more secure digital landscape for us all.

In our satirical odyssey through the digital battlefield, we've discovered the importance of Cybersecurity Awareness. The economic implications of cybercrime are far from funny, and we must take the initiative to protect our virtual assets.

As we commemorate this October, let's not only savour our pumpkin spiced lattes and snuggle into warm sweaters but also equip ourselves with digital armour, becoming the much-needed rising Cyber-Jarumai Nigeria desperately needs. Remember, our digital ganuwa is worth defending, and together, we can stand strong in the face of digital invaders (mahara).

Here's to a secure and cyber-vigilant October!

 

Dr. Shafi’i Hamidu

Piece of Peace: De-escalating Military Tension in Niger Republic

 

“Don't beat the drums of war unless you're ready to fight.” - African Proverb.

“Don’t beat the drums of war because we are friends and not ready to fight.” I flipped it.

 

In recent times, the West African region has been gripped by tension due to the coup d'état that took place in our friendly neighboring country, Niger Republic. The democratically elected President, Mr. Mohamed Bazoum, was overthrown by the military, mainly comprised of members of the presidential guards, led by General Abdourahmane Tchiani. This unfortunate incident has sparked reactions from regional bodies, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposing sanctions and threatening the use of force if President Bazoum is not reinstated within a week.

As an advocate of democracy, firmly believing in the government of the people, by the people, the situation in Niger Republic deeply concerns me. History has taught us that military governments that come to power through coups tend to hold on to power and resist relinquishing control voluntarily. Such a coup undermines democracy and hampers progress, pushing Niger Republic backward in its democratic journey. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we strive for a diplomatic resolution to this crisis and prevent any further military escalation.

Looking beyond the current crisis, it is essential to highlight the historical ties between northern Nigeria and Niger Republic. During my upbringing in Zaria, I had the privilege of experiencing the presence of Nigerien families in our compound. One particular family that frequented our home was headed by a man known as Baban Salah, whose son, Saleh, was just a few years older than me. Whenever they visited during the Chirani (dry season labour), we shared the same living space, fostering good memories and nurturing harmonious relationships. Like most northerners, they value friendship, and they are promise keepers. It is the same situation in most northern cities. We are simply one people separated by imaginary colonial boundaries. 

In the aftermath of the coup, events have unfolded rapidly, revealing that a considerable number of Nigeriens support the coup plotters, viewing them as saviors who will liberate their country from foreign dominance and exploitation of its resources. While President Bazoum's government shares similar objectives, the military junta believes his approach is too soft and too slow. It is essential to respect the Nigerien people's choice in determining their nation's path. We may disagree in their support to the military junta that overthrew the elected government, but at the end it is their country and their choice.

However, threats of military force from ECOWAS to bring back President Bazoum are not the solution. We firmly reject any military intervention in our friendly neighbor's internal affairs. Instead, we advocate for peaceful means to resolve the crisis, regardless of the time it might take.

It is crucial for Nigeria to prevent any crisis from erupting in Niger Republic because of the potential consequences it may bring to our nation. As neighbors, we share a close geographical and cultural bond with Niger, and any instability in their country could lead to a significant influx of displaced refugees into Nigeria. Given our current economic hardship and limited resources, coping with a humanitarian catastrophe of such magnitude would pose immense challenges. By maintaining peace and stability in Niger Republic, we safeguard the well-being of both nations, fostering a sense of regional cooperation and mutual support. It is in Nigeria's best interest to act proactively to prevent any crisis from escalating in our neighboring country, ensuring the preservation of peace, security, and prosperity in the West African region.

To deescalate military tension in Niger Republic, we must explore peaceful avenues for resolution, such as engaging in intensive diplomatic dialogue with all stakeholders, appointing neutral mediators for reconciliation efforts, involving African Union (AU) for support. In addition, economic and political incentives can encourage a peaceful transition. Addressing the concerns of the coup plotters and engaging constructively with Niger's leadership can pave the way for a stable democratic government.

Citizen engagement is equally vital in the process of rebuilding democratic institutions. Empowering civil society organizations and involving citizens in open discussions and debates on the country's future fosters a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

In this pursuit, we must be cautious not to involve external Western countries, such as France, the UK, Russia, and the US, in African conflicts. Their involvement tends to complicate matters and may not serve the best interests of African nations. It would only add multiple levels of complexity to the crisis. Instead, we must rely on regional solutions and collaborative efforts to resolve the crisis in Niger Republic. By doing so, we can demonstrate that Africa has the capacity to address its challenges and work towards a peaceful, united, and prosperous continent. 

In conclusion, the situation in Niger Republic demands a concerted effort to find a peaceful resolution. As friends and neighbors, it is our responsibility to advocate for peace and stability in the region. Let us reject any form of military kinetics and pursue diplomatic means to ensure a democratic and prosperous future for the people of Niger Republic. Through dialogue, mediation, and reconciliation, we can deescalate military tension and uphold the values of peace and democracy in West Africa.

 

Dr. Shafi'i Hamidu wrote-in from Minna, Nigeria.

 

 

PUBLISHED IN:
 1. The Nation, with the title "De-escalating the tension in Niger Republic", August 7, 2023.

 2. Daily Trust, with the title "De-escalating Military Tension in Niger Republic", Sat, 5 Aug 2023.