The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has released a report detailing the tactics of disinformation used by political actors and influencers ahead of Nigeria's 2023 general elections. The report highlights the role of social media platforms like TikTok, Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces in spreading false information. It identifies key players, including campaign spokespersons and paid influencers, and discusses the impact of disinformation on election security and voter behavior. The report also examines the responses from government and civil society, advocating for collaborative efforts to combat disinformation and improve social media regulation.

The Chinese zodiac, a 12-year astrological cycle, features the Rabbit in 2023, symbolizing clarity and focus in managing affairs and goals. The Rabbit, associated with the wood element, represents organization and creativity, fostering growth and development. As the Tiger's energy from 2022 continues, the Rabbit's influence brings cautious optimism and disciplined determination. The Rabbit is seen as a symbol of spring, rebirth, and new beginnings, with a reputation for fertility and sociability. The year of the Water Rabbit is expected to be productive, with an emphasis on progress, abundance, self-evaluation, and attention to detail. Collaboration and efficiency in work or projects involving others can be enhanced by the Rabbit's spirit of harmony.

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) report outlines six critical issues that must be addressed to ensure free, fair, and peaceful 2023 general elections in Nigeria. These include rising insecurity, logistical challenges, public confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the influence of religion and ethnicity, the spread of fake news, and the implications of the new electoral act. The report highlights the need for high-level engagements, peace-building efforts, and efficient election technology to mitigate these challenges. It also underscores the importance of youth participation and provides recommendations for improving election credibility and voter turnout.

Jayme Closs, a 13-year-old girl, escaped from her captor Jake Patterson and sought help from Joanne Nutter, who was walking her dog. Kristin Kasinskas called 911, and officers were dispatched to the scene. Jayme was taken to a hospital and later reunited with her family. Patterson was apprehended shortly after. The article highlights the relief and efforts of those involved in ensuring Jayme's safety.

Rick Romley, a former top prosecutor in Phoenix, was hired by Hacienda HealthCare on January 14 to investigate how a patient in a vegetative state was sexually assaulted and gave birth. The facility's CEO, Bill Timmons, resigned following the incident. Romley's review will focus on patient-security procedures and management practices. The 29-year-old victim has been under Hacienda's care since age 3 and her child will be taken in by her family. There is also an ongoing police investigation and reviews by state regulatory agencies.

Nigeria ranks 15th worldwide in suicide rates, with initiatives like Hauwa Ojeifo's support group and national crisis helpline addressing the need for mental health support. Despite the stigma and lack of infrastructure for mental health care, efforts such as Ojeifo's online community and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital's SURPIN/SECS are making strides. The country's unique gender breakdown in suicide rates and the role of religion in society are highlighted, with a call for more preventive strategies focusing on mental health education from a young age.

The article discusses the significant under-representation of women in Nigerian politics, highlighting the challenges they face, including cultural, religious, and societal barriers. Despite Nigeria being Africa's most populous country, women's political participation remains low compared to other African nations. The article features stories of several female politicians and activists who have made notable contributions and continue to fight for gender equality. It also mentions organizations working to improve women's political representation and the importance of ratifying quotas for women in politics to ensure more balanced governance.

The article by TOLUWANI ENIOLA reports on the high rate of child mortality in Kano State, Nigeria, where one in five children die before the age of five, primarily due to diarrhoea and other diseases linked to contaminated water. The piece highlights the personal stories of mothers who have lost children or are currently treating them for diarrhoea at Hasiya Bayero Children Hospital. It discusses the lack of potable water in the region, with residents often relying on contaminated wells and streams shared with livestock. The article cites UNICEF and NDHS statistics on child mortality and diarrhoea prevalence in Nigeria, emphasizing the severity of the situation in Kano State. It also covers the efforts of local NGOs advocating for better water provision and the state government's response, which includes repairing water treatment plants and constructing new boreholes. The article underscores the need for improved sanitation, health education, and access to clean water to reduce under-five mortality rates.

The article tells the stories of several individuals in Nigeria who were abandoned as babies but found hope and success through the care of the Ijamido Children’s Home. Pelumi, abandoned at three days old, was rescued and raised in the orphanage, and now aspires to be a writer and teacher. Eromosele, another orphan, is now helping abandoned babies. Moses, who was also abandoned, graduated in accounting and works in a firm. Stella Amos, who faced educational and financial challenges, is pursuing a PhD. Dr. Victoria Awokoya, the first child at the orphanage, is now its CEO. John Olawale, abandoned at birth, is now a registrar at a university. These stories highlight the resilience and achievements of individuals who overcame difficult beginnings, and the article underscores the ongoing issue of child abandonment in Nigeria.