LANRE AROGUNDADE, THE KING OF BOYS, AT 60

By Tunde Akanni, Ph.D

Gals – and our younger Lanruze used to have a large army of them – may also insist he’s theirs. Perhaps, he belonged to them more… Lanre, who now wears a clean skull, used to flaunt a fairly curly hair on the head. And he really could be meticulous taming it. I used to wonder, during our National Concord days, how the tough former NANS guy could spare enough time to tend the head.

LAST JOURNEY OF NIGERIA'S FOUR-TIME CABINET MINISTER, CHIEF TONYE GRAHAM-DOUGLAS (1939-2022).

By Godknows Boladei Igali, Ph.D

In the world view of the Ijaw people, who occupy Nigeria's Atlantic coastline, the largest of whales never die. When the cycle of life eclipses, the master behemoth simply migrates to the deepest recesses of the oceans never to be seen again. So is the parallel story of a once towering, perhaps most outlandishly colourful Nigerian statesman – Alabo (Chief) Tamunotonye Tamunotenyin Omubo Graham-Douglas (1939-2022).

LATE SHONEKAN, A PATRIOT, GREAT INTERVENTIONIST, SAYS PIUS ANYIM

• * Commends His Formation Of Nigerian Economic Summit Group, NESG

By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-Chief)

Former leader of Nigeria's National Assembly and Constitutional lawyer, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, has expressed great shock and sadness at the death of the former Head of the Interim National Government (ING), Chief Ernest Adegunle Oladeinde Shonekan, who passed on in Lagos on Tuesday at the age of 85.

LAWMAKERS, CHAIRMEN LOCKED OUT AS NIGER GOV PRESENTS N198.2B BUDGET PROPOSAL TP STATE ASSEMBLY

By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)

Some Niger State House of Assembly members and some Local Government Council Chairmen were on Thursday locked outside legislative complex reportedly on the ‘orders from above’ as the state Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, presented the 2022 budget estimate to the legislature.

Leaked GTA6 Gameplay Videos And Source Code Surfaces Online

• *Rockstar Confirms The Leak In A Twitter Statement

By Chinua Albert Okafor @TheRoboRai

Grand Theft Auto VI footage has leaked online, the next entry in Rockstar's open-world franchise. There are 90 videos of GTA VI footage in a 3GB file posted on the GTA Forums, according to PC Gamer. "Teapotuberhacker" claims to be behind the recent Uber hack and says they may leak more data soon, including GTA V and GTA VI source code, assets, and testing builds.

Leaked Video Saga: TONTO DIKE'S ASSOCIATE FIRES KPOKPOGIRI IN OPEN LETTER

By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-Chief)

Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, a close associate of Nigeria's celebrated Nollywood actress, Tonto Dike, has fired angry broadsides at the ex-boyfriend of the thespian, Prince Kpokpogiri, over his alleged mastermind of a leaked audio recording of Tonto allegedly begging him not to leave her after he had accused the actress of cheating on him.

LESSONS ABOUT CHANGE FROM RUTO'S PLAYBOOK

By Azu Ishiekwene

In six African countries the heads of government have been in power for 20 years or more. Attempts to replace them by ballot have either been stalled, frustrated or crushed.

LESSONS FROM "WHAT THEY DON'T TEACH YOU AT HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL"

By Mark McCormack

The book, "What They Don't Teach You at Harvard Business School" which was published in 1984, offers practical advice on business and success, often focusing on insights and skills that go beyond formal education. Here is a detailed summary of the key concepts from "What They Don't Teach You at Harvard Business School" by Mark McCormack:

1. The Importance of People Skills: McCormack emphasizes the significance of people skills in business success. Building and maintaining relationships, effective communication, and understanding human behavior are essential aspects of achieving professional goals.

2. Street Smarts vs. Book Smarts: The book discusses the distinction between academic knowledge and practical, street-smart wisdom. McCormack argues that real-world success often requires a combination of both, with an emphasis on the ability to navigate and understand the dynamics of everyday business situations.

3. Negotiation Skills: McCormack provides insights into negotiation strategies and tactics. Understanding how to negotiate effectively, whether in deals, contracts, or interpersonal interactions, is a valuable skill in the business world.

4. Time Management: Time management is a crucial aspect of success, according to McCormack. The book offers practical advice on prioritizing tasks, making efficient use of time, and focusing on high-impact activities.

5. The Power of Perception: McCormack explores the role of perception in business. How others perceive you and your brand can significantly impact your opportunities and success. Managing and shaping perceptions is a key element of strategic career development.

6. Goal Setting and Planning: Setting clear goals and creating a strategic plan are discussed as essential components of achieving success. McCormack provides guidance on defining objectives, creating actionable plans, and staying focused on long-term aspirations.

7. Leadership and Decision-Making: Effective leadership and decision-making are critical in business. McCormack shares insights into making sound decisions, leading teams, and navigating challenges as a leader in the corporate world.

8. Salesmanship and Persuasion: The art of salesmanship and persuasion is explored in the book. McCormack discusses the importance of effective communication in selling ideas, products, or services, and how persuasion skills can contribute to career advancement.

9. Networking and Relationship Building: Building a strong network and cultivating relationships are highlighted as integral to success. McCormack provides practical advice on networking strategies, relationship-building techniques, and leveraging connections for professional growth.

10. Adaptability and Flexibility:

• The business landscape is dynamic, and McCormack emphasizes the importance of adaptability. Being flexible, open to change, and willing to embrace new opportunities are qualities that contribute to long-term success.

11. Ethics and Integrity:

• McCormack stresses the significance of conducting business with ethics and integrity. Maintaining a reputation for honesty and ethical conduct is crucial for long-term success and credibility in the business world.

12. Personal Branding:

• The book touches on the concept of personal branding and how individuals can shape and manage their professional image. Building a strong personal brand contributes to career advancement and opportunities.

13. Learning from Experience:

• McCormack encourages learning from practical experiences. Real-world situations often provide valuable lessons that go beyond what can be taught in a classroom setting.

14. Balancing Work and Life:

• Achieving a balance between work and personal life is discussed as a critical aspect of overall well-being and sustained success.

"What They Don't Teach You at Harvard Business School" is a pragmatic guide that draws on McCormack's own experiences as the founder of the sports marketing company IMG. The book provides actionable insights and lessons that professionals at any stage of their career can apply to achieve success in the business world. NNL.

LESSONS FROM 'THE POWER OF KINDNESS'

By Piero Ferrucci

1. The Deliberate Choice of Kindness: Ferrucci argues that true kindness requires intentionality. It's not just automatic politeness or hollow gestures, but a conscious decision to act with compassion and understanding. This often involves actively seeking out opportunities to be kind, even when it's inconvenient or requires sacrifice.

2. Kindness creates a ripple effect: The book showcases real-life stories where tiny acts of kindness, like a smile or a helping hand, sparked a chain reaction of positive change. This emphasizes the butterfly effect of kindness, highlighting how our individual choices can have unforeseen far-reaching consequences, and reveals the psychology of social influence, how merely witnessing kindness encourages others to follow suit.

3. More Than Just Giving: Ferrucci delves deeper into the various expressions of kindness beyond material generosity. He explores how forgiveness, honesty, gratitude, and service all weave into the tapestry of kindness, each contributing to building stronger, more meaningful connections.

4. The Science of Kindness: The book cites research studies demonstrating the tangible benefits of kindness for both the giver and the receiver. Kindness not only boosts happiness and well-being but also improves physical health and strengthens social bonds, creating a mutually reinforcing cycle of positivity.

5. Setting Healthy Boundaries: Ferrucci advocates for establishing clear boundaries to prevent burnout and manipulation. Kindness doesn't require self-sacrifice. In fact, true kindness must start from within, yourself. He emphasizes that kindness thrives alongside self-respect and self-care, ensuring a sustainable approach to fostering compassion without self-harm.

6. The Healing Power of Forgiveness Towards Ourselves and Others: The book discusses different types of forgiveness and their role in promoting healing. It highlights how forgiving others and ourselves frees us from negativity and allows us to move forward with open hearts, fostering both personal and interpersonal well-being.

7. Connecting with Kindness Through Service: The book highlights how forms of service like volunteering connect us with our community, foster a sense of belonging, and allow us to put kindness into action, creating a tangible impact on others' lives.

8. The Authenticity of Kindness: Ferrucci emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding your values to guide your acts of kindness. He encourages readers to avoid mimicking others' actions without genuine care and intention behind them, ensuring true meaning and connection in their kindness.

9. Starting Simple and Building Momentum: The book suggests specific, achievable acts of kindness suitable for beginners, like holding the door open or offering a sincere compliment. It emphasizes celebrating small victories and tracking progress to stay motivated and gradually build a habit of kindness. NNL.

LESSONS FROM 'THE ROAD TO CHARACTER'

By David Brooks

1. Humility is the Foundation: Recognize your limits and flaws, and appreciate the vastness of the world beyond yourself. True humility leads to openness, learning, and genuine connection.

2. Moral Fitness Matters More than Resume Values: Focus on developing your "eulogy virtues" like love, courage, and faith, rather than just "resume virtues" like intelligence and achievements.

3. Engage in the Struggle for Good: Building character is a lifelong journey, not a destination. Embrace moral challenges, resist self-centeredness, and actively cultivate virtues.

4. Practice "Long Obedience in the Same Direction": Develop sustained commitment to your values, passions, and relationships. Resist the allure of shortcuts and instant gratification.

5. Cultivate Humility through Faith and Rituals: Connect to something larger than yourself through spiritual practices and traditions. Rituals can remind you of your values and provide an anchor for moral development. NNL.

LESSONS FROM THIS BOOK 'KEEP IT SHUT'

(What To Say; How To Say It; And When To Say Nothing At All)

By Karen Ehman

1. Words have power: Recognize the impact your words can have on yourself and others, both positive and negative.

2. Silence is golden: Learn to be comfortable with silence, allowing space for reflection and thoughtful responses.

3. Consider before speaking: Pause before responding, allowing yourself time to process emotions and choose the right words.

4. Guard your tongue: Control your impulsive reactions and avoid speaking out of anger or negativity.

5. Listen actively: Pay close attention to what others are saying, both verbally and nonverbally.

6. Ask clarifying questions: Ensure you understand the other person's perspective before responding.

7. Speak with kindness and respect: Treat others with dignity, even when you disagree.

8. Offer constructive criticism: When necessary, focus on specific actions and offer suggestions for improvement.

9. Avoid gossip and negativity: Don't participate in spreading rumors or engaging in hurtful conversations.

10. Challenge negativity: Gently confront gossip and encourage others to consider the impact of their words.

11. Forgive and move on: Forgive those who have wronged you and let go of negativity to protect your own well-being.

12. Guard your heart: Be mindful of the thoughts and information you allow into your mind and heart.

13. Seek God's guidance: Rely on your faith for wisdom and strength when faced with difficult situations.

14. Practice self-care: Prioritize your physical and emotional well-being to manage stress and make wise decisions.

15. Humility is key: Recognize that you don't always have the answer, and be open to learning and growing.

Remember: These are just some of the key takeaways from "Keep It Shut." Each lesson offers valuable insights and practical strategies for improving your communication skills, fostering healthy relationships, and living a more mindful life. NNL.

LESSONS FROM THIS NOVEL 'NEVER SAW YOU COMING'

By Erin Hahn

This book, "Never Saw You Coming", delves into the complexities of family, faith, and first love. Here are 10 lessons you might glean from this captivating novel:

LESSONS IN THE BOOK, 'THE RICHEST MAN IN BABYLON'

By George S. Clason

The Richest Man in Babylon is a 1926 book by George S. Clason that dispenses financial advice through a collection of parables set 4,097 years ago in ancient Babylon. The book remains in print almost a century after the parables were originally published, and is regarded as a classic of personal financial advice.

LESSONS IN THIS BOOK 'YOU CAN NEGOTIATE ANYTHING: HOW TO GET WHAT YOU WANT'

By Herb Cohen

"You Can Negotiate Anything" by Herb Cohen is a classic guide to negotiation. Here are nine key lessons from the book:

LEST NANS PROTESTS BECOME ANOTHER #ENDSARS

By Bola Bolawole

University students under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have begun to make good their threat to shut down the country over the intransigence of the Muhammadu Buhari administration on the strike action embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which is more than eight months old already! The students’ action can be described as being in support of ASUU and helping to mount pressure on the government to make it hearken unto the striking lecturers but, in actual fact, it is more than that: the students themselves being the major victims of the lingering strike action and government’s reluctance to bow to ASUU’s demands, they are, therefore, the very ones in the eyes of the storm. So, they are acting not in support of ASUU alone but also in the advancement of their own interests. Why it took them so long before coming out to mount pressure on the government is what baffles me. It is part of the laziness or tardiness on the part of ASUU and the lackadaisical attitude of other stakeholders; folding our hands and doing nothing; simply wriggling our hands and thrusting everything on God, as if He exists only to carry the burdens of Nigerians!

LET US ACCEPT GOD'S CHOICE THROUGH US

By Hassan Gimba

As you read this, the nation is awaiting the results of the presidential election held two days ago – some anxiously, some eagerly, and some with their hearts in their mouths, but all are hopeful for a new dawn because, depending on the results, hopes for a better nation can either be actualized or marred.

LET'S DISCUSS THE 'AGBADO' ECONOMY

By Simon Kolawole

One of the most enduring jokes on social media is centred on “agbado” — the Yoruba word for maize, which is equally known as corn. Many Nigerians might have forgotten the source. Speaking at his 69th birthday colloquium in March 2021, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then addressed as national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), advocated the massive recruitment of youths into the army so that Nigeria could tackle insecurity and unemployment at once. He obviously goofed by suggesting that 50 million youths could be recruited into the army to address the security challenges. His media office later clarified that he meant to say 50,000 youths as 50 million was way out of line.

LET'S NOT ALLOW INSECURITY TO CRIPPLE NIGERIA.....Sen Ida

By Ankeli Emmanuel (Sokoto)

Senator Ibrahim Ida (Sarduanan Katsina), has appealed to all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity, political inclination and status, to come together and support the government towards providing a safe and secured environment for all.

LET'S SAVE NIGERIA, DEMOCRACY IN 2021, PDP CHAIRMAN, UCHE SECONDUS, URGES NIGERIANS IN NEW YEAR

By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-Chief)@CeleOkaf11

National Chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has urged Nigerians to put all hands on deck in the new year to save our democracy and the nation from destruction.

LET'S TALK HOPE

By Hassan Gimba

Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future, someone once said. Even though there are enough reasons to continue with the treatise on banditry and shared sovereignty - such a depressing fact of our national life - however, today I want to look at the other side - the side of hope. Hope is to believe with an audacity that better days are afoot, the ability to see light at the end of the tunnel.