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The Beautiful Game’s Ugly Side: When Football Betting Becomes a Trap

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The Beautiful Game’s Ugly Side When Football Betting Becomes a Trap

Football is called “the beautiful game” for a reason. The goals, the rivalries, the emotions – it’s a universal language. But there’s another language that has quietly crept in alongside it: odds, accumulators, cash-outs. Football betting has become so common that in some friend groups, if you don’t have a “ticket” for the weekend’s fixtures, you might as well be invisible. On the surface, betting looks harmless. A little thrill here, a small stake there. You put ₦500 on Arsenal to win and they actually deliver? Congratulations – you just made ₦1,200 while sitting on your couch. Feels good, right? But that’s how it starts. One win plants a seed in your mind: If I can win once, I can win again. And again. And again. The First Taste The first win is sweet. It’s like your team scoring a last-minute winner – you’re high on adrenaline, and your brain has already decided you’ve found the secret to life. You start imagining bigger stakes and bigger wins. That ₦500 win convinces you that if you’d just staked ₦5,000, you’d be on your way to millionaire status. The funny part? You completely ignore the fact that your ₦500 was a random guess that happened to land. You’ve already built castles in the air, and in your mind, the next weekend’s fixtures are your golden ticket. The Slide into Addiction Betting doesn’t start as an addiction – it starts as entertainment. But football betting has a way of sinking its claws in. You win once, lose twice, then win again. You’re not keeping track anymore; you’re just chasing that same feeling you had the first time. Soon, it’s not about enjoying football. You’re no longer watching matches for the goals or the beautiful passing – you’re watching because your “over 2.5” needs just one more goal in the 89th minute. And when it doesn’t happen, you can’t eat, you can’t sleep, and you’re one VAR decision away from throwing your TV out the window. The Money Myth Let’s be honest: one of the biggest attractions of betting is the idea of “earning money without working.” No alarms, no boss, no traffic – just vibes and predictions. You tell yourself you’re being smart, that this is strategic thinking. But in reality, you’re rolling dice with your emotions. And here’s the trap – one win isn’t enough. No matter how much you win, your brain tells you it’s just a stepping stone to something bigger. ₦10,000 today? Tomorrow you want ₦50,000. Tomorrow comes, and you lose ₦20,000 instead. Now you’re not just back where you started – you’re behind. And the only way to “recover” is… to bet again. Debt, Depression, and Isolation It doesn’t take long before the financial hits start to hurt. You borrow small amounts here and there – just “urgent 2k” – with promises to pay back when your next big win comes. But the win doesn’t come. Instead, the debts pile up. That’s when depression walks in, uninvited. You stop hanging out with friends because you don’t want to explain why you’re broke… again. You avoid calls because you don’t want to face your creditors. You start isolating yourself, not because you want to, but because you’re ashamed. Football betting, once a fun hobby, has quietly taken control of your life. The Hard Road to Quitting Quitting football betting sounds easy until you try. You tell yourself, That’s it, I’m done. And for a week or two, you actually stick to it. But then you go broke, and your mind whispers: If I can just win one ticket, I’ll be fine. You convince yourself it’s not “really” going back – it’s just “one bet to bounce back.” And just like that, you’re right back where you started, staring at live scores with your heart in your throat. The truth is, quitting betting is like breaking up with a toxic partner who knows exactly how to pull you back in. It takes more than willpower – it takes changing your environment, your mindset, and sometimes even your circle of friends. The Illusion of Control One of the most dangerous lies in football betting is the belief that you can “outsmart” the system. You start researching form tables, injury lists, head-to-head stats. You convince yourself you’ve cracked the code. But the truth is, football is unpredictable. That’s what makes it beautiful – and that’s what makes betting on it so dangerous. Even the best analysts in the world get it wrong. One red card, one penalty miss, one goalkeeper having the game of his life, and your “sure odds” go up in smoke. Finding Your Way Back Escaping the betting trap starts with honesty. Admit it’s not just a hobby anymore – it’s a problem. Limit your exposure to betting adverts, unsubscribe from tipster groups, and replace the habit with something else that excites you. Talk to people you trust. The shame only grows in silence. You might be surprised how many others have walked the same road. Some have found ways to redirect that passion for football into safer outlets – coaching, playing casually, writing about the sport, or even fantasy football leagues where money isn’t on the line. Final Whistle Football will always be a game of passion, unpredictability, and joy. But when betting turns that joy into anxiety, debt, and isolation, it’s time to blow the whistle. The house always wins – that’s not a slogan, it’s a fact. And no amount of “one last ticket” will change it. Winning once will never be enough, and the sooner you realise that, the sooner you can start enjoying the game again for what it is – 90 minutes of drama, beauty, and sometimes heartbreak, without the crushing weight of money riding on every pass. Betting may seem like an easy way to make money, but in reality, it’s an expensive way to lose peace of mind. Football will always be worth watching. Your life is worth even more. … Read more

Climate Equity in Africa: Bridging the Gap for a Just Future

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By Musa Salihu Introduction: The Unequal the Gap for a Just Future Burden of Climate ChangeImagine a farmer in rural Kenya who wakes up to a sun-scorched field, a fisherman in Senegal whose daily catch has disappeared, or a mother in Nigeria watching her child suffer from heatstroke. This is the stark reality of climate change in Africa—where those least responsible for the crisis bear the heaviest burden.Africa contributes less than 4% of global carbon emissions (UNEP, 2023), yet it faces some of the most severe climate impacts—droughts, floods, desertification, and rising sea levels. The injustice is clear: Africa is paying the price for the pollution of wealthier nations.This is where climate equity comes in. It is not just about reducing emissions but ensuring that Africa gets the financial, technological, and policy support it needs to adapt, survive, and thrive in a warming world. The Reality: Climate Injustice in Africa1. Extreme Weather Events: A Growing ThreatAfrica is experiencing unprecedented climate disasters:In 2022, Nigeria witnessed its worst floods in a decade, displacing over 1.4 million people and killing 600+ (World Bank, 2023).The Horn of Africa is facing its worst drought in 40 years, with over 36 million people suffering from hunger (FAO, 2023).Mozambique, Madagascar, and Malawi have been hit by back-to-back cyclones, wiping out entire communities.While these disasters escalate, funding to help African nations cope remains inadequate. 2. The Broken Promises of Climate FinanceDeveloped nations pledged $100 billion per year to help poorer countries adapt to climate change (UNFCCC, 2023), yet Africa receives only a fraction of this funding.The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates that Africa needs $277 billion annually for climate adaptation, yet receives less than $30 billion (AfDB, 2023).Only 20% of climate finance goes to adaptation efforts like drought-resistant crops and flood defenses (OECD, 2023). Without adequate funding, millions will continue to lose their homes, livelihoods, and lives. 3. Green Energy Transition: Africa’s Untapped PotentialAfrica has some of the world’s richest renewable energy resources—solar, wind, and hydropower. Yet, over 600 million Africans lack access to electricity (IEA, 2023). The solution? Investing in Africa’s green economy:✅ Solar farms in the Sahara could power the entire continent.✅ Wind energy from the Horn of Africa could revolutionize electricity access.✅ Hydropower projects on the Congo River could supply clean energy to millions.With proper investment and policy support, Africa can leapfrog fossil fuels and become a global leader in clean energy. Climate Equity: The Way Forward for Africa1. Developed Nations Must Honor Their Financial CommitmentsWealthy countries must pay their fair share by delivering the $100 billion climate finance pledge and increasing support for adaptation efforts. 2. African Leaders Must Prioritize Climate-Resilient PoliciesGovernments should invest in:✔ Climate-smart agriculture to protect farmers from droughts.✔ Early warning systems to prevent flood and storm disasters.✔ Reforestation projects to combat desertification. 3. Private Sector & Youth InvolvementAfrican entrepreneurs should be empowered to drive clean energy innovations.Youth-led climate movements should be supported in policy-making decisions. A Call to Action: Africa Must Not Be Left BehindThe time for empty promises is over. Africa needs:Real climate finance, not debt-driven loans.Investment in renewable energy to power its future.Stronger global climate policies that put justice first.???? Africa is not a victim—it is a leader in the fight for climate justice. But the world must act NOW to ensure a future of fairness, sustainability, and equity.

Travel: 4 positive transformative power

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The transformative power of travel

Travel is more than just visiting new places—it’s an experience that shapes how we see the world and ourselves. Whether it’s a short trip to a neighboring town or a journey across continents, traveling opens our eyes to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. It teaches lessons that can’t always be learned in a classroom or from books, making it one of the most enriching experiences anyone can have. 1. Experiencing New Cultures One of the most exciting parts of traveling is stepping into a world that feels completely different from what we’re used to. Each place has its own traditions, customs, and ways of doing things, and seeing them firsthand is both eye-opening and humbling. For example, in some cultures, people take life at a slower pace, prioritizing family and social connections over rigid schedules. In others, time is seen as something to be managed efficiently, with productivity being the main focus. Neither way is right or wrong—it’s just different. And experiencing these differences firsthand helps us understand that the way we’ve always done things isn’t the only way. Food is another great way to experience a new culture. Trying dishes that are completely unfamiliar—whether it’s a spicy street food delicacy or a homemade meal from a local—gives insight into the history and traditions of a place. There’s something special about sharing a meal with strangers and realizing that, no matter where we come from, food brings people together. 2. Learning to Adapt Travel isn’t always smooth. Flights get delayed, language barriers make communication tricky, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. But these challenges are part of the experience. They push us to adapt, think on our feet, and stay patient. Over time, we become more resourceful, learning to navigate unfamiliar places with confidence. Travel changes how we see everyday life. It’s easy to assume that our way of doing things is the “normal” way—until we see people living completely differently and thriving. It makes us question things we once took for granted. For example, visiting a place where people have fewer material possessions but seem genuinely happy makes us rethink what’s truly important. Seeing people with strong family bonds despite having little reminds us to appreciate what really matters. 3. The Beauty of Nature Travel isn’t just about people and cultures—it’s also about the natural world. Standing in front of a massive waterfall, walking through an ancient forest, or watching the sunset over an unfamiliar landscape reminds us of how vast and beautiful the world really is. Each environment tells its own story. Coastal towns have a deep connection to the sea, while mountain villages adapt to a completely different way of life. Traveling to different landscapes not only makes us appreciate nature’s beauty but also reminds us of the importance of preserving it. Seeing pollution in a once-pristine location or hearing locals talk about how climate change is affecting their way of life makes environmental issues feel more real and urgent. 4. Connecting with People One of the most memorable parts of any journey is the people we meet along the way. Even brief conversations with strangers can leave lasting impressions. Sometimes, the smallest interactions—a local helping with directions, a shopkeeper sharing a story, or a fellow traveler giving advice—turn into meaningful moments. What’s interesting is that despite cultural differences, human connection remains the same everywhere. A smile, a kind gesture, or shared laughter can break through language barriers. It’s in these moments that we realize we’re not so different after all. Coming Home with a New Perspective Travel changes us, even if we don’t realize it right away. Coming back home after a trip often makes us see familiar things differently. The daily routine that once felt boring might now seem comforting. The food we once took for granted might taste better. And the things we used to complain about might not seem so important anymore. At the end of the day, travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it’s about how those places shape us. It challenges us, teaches us, and reminds us of how much there is to explore and learn. And maybe that’s the greatest thing about it—no matter how many places we go, there will always be more to see, more people to meet, and more experiences waiting for us. Also Read: Mental health: 10 practical steps to help you prioritize your mental health

Unavailability of sanitary pad around UDUS classes

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UDUS Students Laments Unavailability of  Sanitary Pads At Business Centres Inside Campus It was a weekday in UDUS, when the reddish caliphate sun was at its peak. Maryam (last name withheld), was busy going around her academic activities that mounted the hem of her day when she felt the urge to ease herself. Luckily for her, she was close to the academic mosque (one of the masjids that defines the UDUS landscape) so she made her move. Maryam was urinating when she noticed it was the time for her menstrual flow. “I was not with my bag, just my phone, cash and pen,” she retorted. Left in the dilemma of where to get a pad, Maryam wished the blood could wait and allow her to get back to her hostel. What started as a smart day for her quickly transited into a looming embarrassment. For a second, she felt betrayed by the indignity of her own blood giving way between her thighs, down to stain her dress and wished there was a solution close by. “I noticed no pad around the school premise though I’m not sure of the school Mini Mart as I can’t think of going that far. I had to use my handkerchief because I hadn’t finished what brought me to school. The experience was nothing to be proud of,” Maryam recounted the ugly woes that befell her that day. According to Maryam, one of her daily routines now is putting a sanitary pad in her school bag before leaving for school due to emergency and knowing fully well that pad is inaccessible in UDUS classes. Maryam emphasized the essentiality of getting sanitary pads around UDUS classes which in her view helps to save many when the emergency happens. “Sanitary pad is a must for the  females, it is a monthly need and it should be available around the school premises at least it will save faces as unforeseen emergency happens,” Maryam advised. She furthered that, “We can never be too careful when it comes to menses because we experience change of hormones.” Like Maryam, Popoola Tomiwa, a 400 level student of education English recounted an embarrassing day her menstruation met her while in school. In her words, “There was a fateful day in school that I can’t forget in my life, I saw my period in class and I wasn’t with any pad. My dress was ruined before I could get to my hostel by bike because I couldn’t get a pad around class,” Tomiwa told Digest, letting out her disappointment about the lingering situation. She also underscored the importance of sanitary pad to womanhood and why it is essential to get it around school area “Sanitary pad is very important to me and every mature girl out there because of our monthly flow. It is important that we should be able to get pads around our classes because many female students feel embarrassed when their dress is ruined with blood,” she concluded. Period Poverty: The Bigger Picture In Nigeria, an estimated 37 million women and girls experience period poverty, meaning that they are unable to access or afford menstrual products like pads and tampons, but also pain medication and underwear. It’s a situation that remains largely unaddressed within society, even as the escalating cost of sanitary pads over the past five years has made the problem worse, putting an essential product out of reach for a large portion of the population. According to a report in East Africa, 4 out of 5 girls lack access to sanitary pads and related health education. More Woes “I do feel isolated anytime I see it while in the school premises. Because of the possible embarrassment it might bring upon me,” Khadija, another UDUS student, stated. “Inaccessibility of sanitary pads can cause embarrassment and stigma because I might have gotten stained before having access to one.” “Sanitary Pad is important for female fir menstrual hygiene because of absorbs menstrual flow and also serve as a sense of security and comfort when used.” “It is important to have access to it around UDUS classes to prevent females from getting stained/l after seeing it in the school premise before reaching out hostels,” she advised. I would leave the school premise and go to the hostel because I know there’s no way for me to get a pad around the school” another female student Nafeesah explained. Abdulrasaq Nafeesah, a 400 level student of Education English shared her distress toward seeing her menstruation while in school knowing she won’t get access to sanitary pad around the school area. “ I felt ashamed because I was afraid of staining my clothes; fearing that people would discover my situation the moment I start menstruation,” According to her, she knows there is no access to sanitary pads around School premises, so, she would always run back to the hostel when she discovers it is her time of the month. “I’m the kind of person that feels stomach ache whenever I’m expecting my menstruation. So, if I discovered this, I would go to the hostel because I know there is no way for me to get a pad around the school.” Sharafdeen Aisha, a 300 level of education Chemistry department disclosed how stressful it is getting her period on campus and knowing the inaccessibility of sanitary pad. In her words, Honestly, it is stressful. Seeing your period on campus, especially without easy access to a pad feels so uncomfortable and worrysome. You can’t focus and it is hard to feel clean or at ease,” Aisha furthered that she gets her pad outside school which makes her miss class sometimes. “I really wish if something can be done about it” Kawthar Arowona. Kawthar Arowona is a 400 level student of the Agriculture department, wishes sanitary pads could be sold around UDUS classes so as to avoid getting unprecedented embarrassment from both genders. “I have once cried in the toilet before, because I was feeling disgraced as a … Read more

Seven Harmful Implications and Disadvantages of Using Styrofoam

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Seven Harmful Implications and Disadvantages of Using Styrofoam

Styrofoam, commonly referred to as “take-away packs,” has become a staple in food packaging, especially at events, restaurants, and homes. This lightweight material, known scientifically as polystyrene foam, is convenient, affordable, and readily available. However, beneath its practicality lies a host of harmful implications that affect both human health and the environment. In this article, we explore seven key harmful disadvantages and implications of the production and usage of Styrofoam.   Non-Biodegradable One of the most alarming issues with Styrofoam is its non-biodegradable nature. It can take hundreds of years to decompose fully, and during this time, it occupies significant landfill space. Its persistence in the environment contributes heavily to pollution, especially as it accumulates in land and water ecosystems.   Health Risks Styrofoam poses serious health risks, particularly when used for packaging hot or greasy food. Chemicals like styrene can leach from the foam into food and beverages, especially when exposed to heat. Research has linked prolonged exposure to styrene with severe health issues, including cancer, impaired vision, and nervous system disorders. The potential ingestion of these harmful chemicals makes Styrofoam a risky material for food packaging.   Difficult to Recycle Unlike many other materials, Styrofoam is not easily recyclable. this is due to Its lightweight and bulky nature, that makes it inefficient to transport and recycle. Threfore, many recycling centers do not accept Styrofoam because of the cost involved in processing it. This results in vast quantities of used Styrofoam ending up in landfills, further compounding environmental problems, leading to climatic changes.   Contributes to Environmental Pollution: When Styrofoam breaks down, it does not decompose but rather fragments into smaller pieces, contributing to the growing plastic pollution problem. These tiny particles, known as microplastics, often end up in oceans and waterways, where they pose a grave threat to marine life. Animals may ingest these particles, mistaking them for food. This can further lead to injury or death.   Energy-Intensive Production The production of Styrofoam is not environmentally friendly. This means that its production, often requires significant amounts of energy and petroleum, a non-renewable resource, to manufacture it. As this goes on, this leads to a higher carbon footprint compared to more sustainable alternatives like paper or plant-based packaging. The energy-intensive process also releases harmful emissions, contributing to global climate change.   Flammability This means styrofoam are highly flammable, and when it burns. then, when it is burned, it releases toxic gases into the atmosphere.  When these gases, are released, including carbon monoxide and styrene vapor, they become harmful to both human health and the environment. The risk of fire is particularly concerning in environments where Styrofoam is used in large quantities, such as food restaurants, parties and outdoor events.   Non-Durability: While Styrofoam may be convenient, it lacks the durability and strength of other packaging materials. It is prone to cracking or breaking, especially when used to store heavy, hot, or greasy foods. This can result in spills or leaks of food. In turn, this makes it less reliable for transporting food safely and cleanly.   Conclusion While styrofoam remains a popular choice for food packaging due to its affordability and convenience, the harmful implications of its production, usage and process of recycling has implications on human health and the environment cannot be ignored. From its contribution to environmental pollution to its potential health risks, Styrofoam poses challenges that far outweigh its benefits.   Therefore, in order to mitigate these issues, it is best to embrace sustainable options for food packaging.  As more sustainable and safer alternatives become available, it is essential to consider these options to reduce our reliance on Styrofoam and protect our planet for future generations.   Also read: Five Effects of Car Emissions on our lives and Environment

MY BOYFRIENDS SCREWED UP BIG TIME

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My boyfriends screwed up big time

MY BOYFRIENDS SCREWED UP BIG TIME I sat on the couch and stared blankly at the TV as my mind replayed the events of the past days. Really, my boyfriend Alex had messed up this time. I couldn’t believe it. “Hey, what’s wrong?” my best friend, Rachel, asked, plopping down beside me. “It’s Alex,” I said, shaking my head. “He lied to me. Again.” “What did he do this time?” Rachel asked, grimacing her face like one who just tasted a bitter herb. “I found out he’s been talking to his ex behind my back,” I said, feeling a mix of anger and hurt. “That’s awful,” Rachel said. “You deserve so much better.” I nodded, remembering the conversation we had when Alex first told me about his ex. “She’s just a friend,” he had said. “Don’t worry about it.” “Friends don’t text each other at 2 AM,” I replied, raising an eyebrow. Alex laughed it off. “She’s just going through a tough time. I’m trying to be supportive.” I believed him. Or at least, I wanted to. Fast-forward to last night, when I saw the text messages on his phone. “Baby, I miss you,” his ex had written. “I miss you too,” Alex replied. My heart sank. When he tried to hold me while greeting me when he came visiting as usual, I confronted him. “Alex, how could you?” I asked, my voice trembling. “It meant nothing,” he said, minimizing it. “She’s just an old friend.” “An old friend you’re still in love with,” I fired back. Alex sighed. “Look, I know I messed up. But please, don’t leave me.” I rose to my feet and confronted him face-to-face. “You broke my trust, Alex. I don’t think I would ever be able to trust you anymore.” “You don’t have to do this,” he retorted. “Well, I am,” I answered. Rachel reached out and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “You did the right thing,” she said. “You deserve someone who respects and loves you fully.” I nodded, knowing she was right. I thought I overreacted but he didn’t try as much as I thought to beg me to return. He did just little. I was broken. The one I trusted had flopped. I sat down on the couch, knowing that all this time, I had been blinded to Alex’s flaws. “It’s time for me to move on,” I said to Rachel. “Oh, about time,” she replied with a smile. It took weeks, but slowly I was healing. Alex tried to win me back, but I wouldn’t budge. It was too late “I’m sorry,” he texted. “Sorry isn’t enough,” I replied. After a few weeks, I was with Racheal when I met someone new. “Hi, I’m Max,” he said, smiling. “Hi,” I replied, my heart fluttering. “I am Bella” READ ALSO A Regret that lasted a lifetime He was perfect, or so I thought. We met over cups of coffee again because we were both into books. The conversations flowed, and on our dates, laughter was never far away. Six months rolled around, and cracks started to appear. “Hey, where were you last night?” I asked him over breakfast. “Out with friends,” he said, not looking my way. “Just friends?” I pushed. Max hesitated before answering. “There was someone else there.from work.” Instinct had kicked in. “Who is she?” I asked firmly. “Emily. She’s new at the office. We just grabbed drinks.” I remembered the texts I’d seen on his phone. “Max, I’ve seen the way you talk to her. Flirty messages, late-night conversations.” Max sighed. “It’s harmless. You’re overreacting.” “Overreacting?” I echoed. “You’re hiding something from me.” Max’s face changed. READ ALSO 5 WAYS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS “Fine. Emily and I. We have a past. Okay? But it’s over. 5 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS “A past?” I echoed, shocked. “We dated briefly before I met you. It was casual.” “Casual?” I shook my head. “You never mentioned her.” “I didn’t want to hurt you,” Max said. “Hurt me?” I laughed bitterly. “You’re hurting me now.” Max reached for my hand. “I love you. Not Emily.” I pulled away. “Love? You call this love? You’re still connected to her.” The conversation finished with Max storming out, claiming that he needed space. I knew then I was caught in the same cycle. It was hard to admit it. “Why do I always attract these guys?” I later asked Rachel. “Oh, you deserve better,” she said. “Probably take time to put a little more focus on yourself.” I nodded, knowing the truth. “No more relationships for a while. They screwed up or maybe I did.” Rachel smiled.

The Climatic Impact of Plastics, Its Usage and Pollution

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The Climatic Impact of Plastics, Its Usage and Pollution

Plastic pollution has long been a concern for marine life, ecosystems, and human health, but its connection to climate change is often less discussed. The production, consumption, and disposal of plastic significantly impact our planet’s climate. In this article, we’ll explore how plastic waste and fossil fuels are interlinked, and how they contribute to global warming.   Plastics Are Derived from Fossil Fuels– Plastics are made primarily from fossil fuels, such as crude oil and natural gas. In fact, over 99% of plastics come from these sources. Hence, the extraction and processing of fossil fuels to produce plastics release a large amount of greenhouse gases, into the atmosphere contributing to global warming. Studies have shown that by 2050, the plastic industry could account for 20% of global oil consumption, and increasing carbon emissions.   Energy used in Production, generates carbon emissions: The production of plastic is an energy-intensive process. For every ton of plastic produced, a substantial amount of energy is used, generating carbon emissions. Ethylene and propylene, the key ingredients in plastics, require high temperatures for their conversion, typically provided by burning fossil fuels, leading to significant Green House Gas emissions. The chemical processes that produce plastics generate high levels of CO2, a leading contributor to the warming of our planet.   Landfilling and Incineration: In landfills, plastics take hundreds of years to degrade. Some plastics emit methane, a potent GHG, as they slowly decompose. Methane is far more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than CO2. Incinerating plastics releases CO2 and other toxic gases, intensifying the greenhouse effect. Research shows that only about 9% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled. The rest either ends up in landfills, is incinerated, or pollutes ecosystems.   Microplastic pollutions: Plastics break down into microplastics, tiny particles that now contaminate oceans and waterways. Oceans serve as one of the largest carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Microplastic pollution interferes with the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon, reducing its role in mitigating climate change. In turn, marine animals ingest microplastics, disrupting marine ecosystems and affecting the food chain, which indirectly impacts the planet’s ecological balance and climate systems.   Plastics Emit Methane Gases: Certain types of plastic, especially when exposed to sunlight and in marine environments, degrade and emit methane and ethylene. Both gases are powerful contributors to the greenhouse effect. Polyethylene, the most produced plastic worldwide, is one of the biggest emitters of methane as it breaks down in the environment. These emissions add to the methane produced during plastic waste disposal, accelerating climate change.   Plastic Use Aggravates Future of Global Warming: Without significant changes to plastic production and waste management, the industry’s climate impact will continue to grow. The projected increase in plastic production is driven by rising demand for single-use plastic. However, this will likely contribute to more Green House Gas emissions, pushing global temperatures higher. Shifting away from fossil fuel-based plastics and adopting alternatives such as bioplastics or materials with lower carbon footprints can help reduce emissions.   Conclusion The connection between plastic pollution and climate change is direct and in different ways. From production to disposal, plastics contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, largely because they are derived from fossil fuels.   The plastic industry is on track to become a significant contributor to the world’s carbon footprint, further exacerbating global warming.  Studies have shown that by 2050, the cumulative greenhouse gas emissions from the production, use, and disposal of plastic could reach over 56 gigatons of CO2 equivalent.   To combat this, we must push for sustainable alternatives, reduce plastic production, improve recycling processes, and minimize plastic waste, to mitigate climate change.   Also read: Effects Of Climate Change On Human Health 

7 Way To Achieve An Effective Work Out Plan

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7 WAYS TO ACHIEVE AN EFFECTIVE WORK OUT PLAN

This article enumerates seven basic ways to achieve an effective exercising work out plan. Many times, we have the will to exercise our bodies but many of us stop midway. So many times, we just pick exercises based on trends or what we see suits someone without finding out what is best for us or how best to work out our chosen exercise. Implementing a workout plan effectively involves more than just picking exercises; it requires careful planning and adherence to ensure you achieve your fitness goals. Here are seven ways to achieve an effective workout plan. Set Clear Goals: Setting clear goals helps you have a foresight on what to achieve after a period of time. Find out a suitable exercise for your body and what you aim to see as preceding results. Define what you want to achieve with your workout plan. Goals could range from losing weight, building muscle, increasing endurance, or improving overall health. By having specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, it will help you stay focused and motivated.   Create a Schedule: Having a schedule helps to plan effectively. To achieve an effective workout, you could plan your workouts according to your daily and weekly routines. This includes decide on the frequency, duration, and type of workouts you’ll do each week. With a schedule of plans, you will achieve consistency. Consistency serves as key. Therefore, find a schedule that fits into your lifestyle and stick to it.   Choose the Right Exercises: The next step is to find out your body fitness level. To determine your fitness level, through key areas, like Aerobic fitness, muscle strength and endurance, and Flexibility. By selecting exercises that align with your goals and fit your fitness level. A balanced workout plan typically includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance training. When you mix the different types of workouts, it can prevent boredom and work different muscle groups.   Track Your Progress: In order to achieve an effective workplan, tracking your progress, helps boost your efforts. You could do this by keeping a recording in a workout log or use a fitness app to track your exercises, weight or calorie loss. When you monitor your progress, it helps you see improvements. Therefore, adjust your plan as needed. This will help you stay accountable, stay motivated, set realistic goals and thus, lead to better results.   Integrate Rest and Recovery: Sometimes in a bid to achieve quick results, we never include rest in our schedules. However, rest days are crucial for muscle recovery and overall health. When you schedule regular rest days, it will help prevent burn outs. Hence, for an effective work out plan, consider incorporating active recovery activities like stretching, yoga, or light walking. Also, avoiding over exercising and overtraining will prevent injury and burnout.   Stay Flexible and Adapt: There are times work out plans have to be adjusted to suit a peculiar change or need. Therefore, be always prepared to adjust your workout plan as needed. This is because life can be unpredictable. Sometimes, you could miss a work out. Therefore, if you miss a workout or need to modify your routine, do so without getting discouraged. Flexibility helps maintain consistency over the long term.   Seek Support and Accountability: Accountability helps to be consistent and encouraged. When you have someone, you have to give account, it helps keep you on track. You could maximally achieve your work out plan, by looking out for a workout buddy, join a fitness class, or participate in online fitness communities. Having support and accountability can make exercising more enjoyable, fun and help you stay committed to your plan. Also read: Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 1)

YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIA

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youth unemployment in Nigeria

Hers was a sad case, Bola had graduated from the prestigious University of Ibadan with a high flying grade, the most prized first class of excellence. Yet, after several years of graduation and re-enabling herself, she was still unable to secure a good job that understood her worth and gained experience. Sadly, this is the tune played by most graduates in Nigeria. This youth unemployment in Nigeria has introduced a lot of havoc among the young adults. Except a few who possess strong connections and have good luck, or better still favour from the divinity, many are underpaid and struggle to make ends meet. According to Wikipedia, unemployment is a situation in which able-bodied people, who are looking for a job cannot find one and voluntary unemployment is attributed to the individual’s decision whereas, involuntary unemployment exists because of the socioeconomic environment, including the market structure, government intervention and the level of aggregate demand in which individuals operate. As Nigeria’s youth population grows, so does the unemployment rate of youths, the majority of unemployed people being females and rural dwellers. Research studies According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria presently has 43 federal universities, 52 state universities, and 79 private universities. By some estimates, Nigeria’s tertiary education and institutions produce up to 500,000 graduates every year and there are also Nigerians who study abroad who come home to seek jobs. Older Nigerians speak of a past when young graduates had jobs lined up even before they graduated. The plague of unemployment has continued to increase despite the abundant human and natural resources available in the country. Chronic youth unemployment is evident in Nigeria, the streets are littered with youth hawkers who ordinarily should have found gainful employment in some enterprise. The large number of youths who are unemployed is capable of undermining democratic practice as they constitute a serious threat if engaged by the political class in clandestine and criminal activities. Youth unemployment in Nigeria has led to an increase in the crime rate and has resulted in Nigeria’s setbacks and problems. Nigeria remains crippled with a massive unemployment level that continues to exact a considerable toll on its socioeconomic prospects. Causes of Youth Unemployment in Nigeria There are so many causes of youth unemployment in Nigeria, some of which are: Rapid rural-urban migration and an upgraded curriculum. Frustration, dejection, and desperation. Dependency on family members and friends, who have their problems to contend with. This precarious unemployment situation has left the youths in a vicious cycle of poverty that daily erodes their confidence and bright future. The issue of youth unemployment in Nigeria can be salvaged or reduced in the following ways: Encouraging creativity and dexterity as youths acquire different vocational skills thereby, making them job creators rather than job seekers. Vocational and technical education should be vigorously pursued. Provision of soft loans to the trained youths as take-off capital. Rural-urban migration should be checked: This can be achieved through the provision of essential social amenities that will make life in rural areas attractive to the youths. A mismanaged population growth is a recipe for disaster, as it would readily create an army of unemployed people who could turn to crime as a survival strategy. Public enlightenment campaigns on the dangers of population explosion and its adverse effect on national development. These strategies need to be placed in the right sectors to foster the employability of young graduates and develop the nation at large. Conclusion The issue of unemployment is stiffing to any country. Deliberate action through enlightenment, rural-urban migration management, and other strategies need to be put in place to manage the youth unemployment in Nigeria situation.

Marriage: 7 things to consider for a successful marriage

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Marriage.things to do

Marriage isn’t just about wearing a ring or having a beautiful wedding. It’s about choosing someone to walk through life with—someone to share your highest highs and toughest lows. It’s a huge decision, and while love is important, it’s not the only thing you need to make it work. Before you say “I do,” it’s worth sitting down and thinking things through. Here are seven real and important things to consider before taking that step. 1. Do We Truly Match—In Ways That Matter? You don’t need to be exactly the same to be a great match. In fact, your differences can make the relationship even richer. But when it comes to the big stuff—values, beliefs, and life goals—it’s crucial to be on the same page. Ask yourself: Do we both want kids? Are we on the same wavelength about money, religion, or how we want to live? For example, if one of you dreams of a quiet life in the countryside and the other wants the hustle of city life forever, that’s something worth discussing early. Shared values make decision-making easier and reduce conflict later on. 2. Can We Really Talk to Each Other? Good communication is the heartbeat of a healthy marriage. It’s not just about talking, but being honest, vulnerable, and respectful even when you’re upset. Do you feel heard when you express your feelings? Does your partner open up, too? If little misunderstandings often turn into big fights, or if either of you struggles to speak openly about feelings, that’s something to work on before tying the knot. Marriage is full of discussions—about finances, family, plans, and emotions—and being able to navigate those conversations kindly is key. 3. How Do We Handle Money? Let’s be honest, money can get messy. Some people are savers, others are spenders. Some are totally fine with debt, while others feel stressed just hearing the word. Before you get married, talk openly about your financial habits, incomes, savings, debts, and future plans. Are you comfortable combining accounts, or do you prefer to keep things separate? Who handles the budgeting? Will you set financial goals together? These conversations might not be romantic, but they are absolutely necessary for peace of mind. 4. Are We Both Emotionally Ready? Marriage isn’t always easy, and it takes emotional maturity to handle its ups and downs. That means being able to admit when you’re wrong, to apologize, to forgive, and to grow. Take a moment to reflect: When things go wrong, do we blame each other or work together? Can we disagree without being disrespectful? If either of you struggles with emotional regulation or carries unresolved baggage from the past, it might be time for some self-work before stepping into marriage. 5. How Do Our Families Fit Into the Picture? Let’s face it: when you marry someone, you’re also joining parts of their family—and they’re joining yours. So it helps to understand where your partner is coming from. What were they taught about relationships? Are there traditions or expectations that matter to them? Also, don’t shy away from talking about your own future family. How many kids do you want? What’s your ideal parenting style? Will both of you work, or will one stay home? These aren’t just “someday” topics—they can affect your relationship in big ways. 6. How Do We Handle Fights? In marriage, no couple is perfect. Disagreements will happen. What matters is how you deal with them. Do you listen to each other, or just wait for your turn to talk? Do fights become personal, or do you work toward a solution? Think about how you and your partner typically resolve issues. If one of you tends to shut down or if conflicts linger unresolved for days, that could build resentment over time. The way you handle disagreements before marriage often predicts how you’ll handle bigger ones later. 7. Are We Headed in the Same Direction? Love is about more than today—it’s also about where you’re going. Sit down and ask: What does the future look like for us? Do we want to travel the world or settle down early? Start a business together or pursue separate careers? Your dreams don’t have to be identical, but they should be compatible. A couple that dreams together, plans together, and builds together has a much stronger chance of lasting happiness. Marriage is one of the most beautiful commitments you can make, but it’s not something to rush into. Take the time to talk, reflect, and really get to know not just your partner, but yourself. These seven areas—compatibility, communication, money, emotional maturity, family dynamics, conflict resolution, and long-term goals—can make all the difference between a marriage that simply survives and one that truly thrives. You don’t have to have all the answers now. But being open, honest, and intentional sets the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect, growth, and lasting love.