Overcoming Cross-Border Banking Challenges in Africa: The Need for a Centralized Exchange System

Belonging is an intrinsic part of the human experience. We crave connections and spaces where we feel rooted and understood, but what happens when the very concept of “home” becomes as elusive as a distant memory? Many grapple with the sensation of not belonging where they currently live or, even more surprisingly, in the place they once called home. This in-between existence can feel isolating and unanchored, a bittersweet conflict that subtly seeps into our sense of self. Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, describes belonging as more than fitting in; it’s being accepted without compromising who we are. She highlights that true belonging begins within ourselves — accepting our worth without needing to conform to societal expectations. Without this self-acceptance, finding external belonging can feel more like chasing shadows than feeling grounded. This nuanced form of self-acceptance can be a safe space we carry, even when our physical environment feel...

  In the quiet twilight of midsummer, when the sky blushes with hues of tangerine and gold, there exists a tribe unbound — vagabonds, wanderers, the nomadic souls who dance to the rhythms of the wind. They are the dreamers, the drifters, with no ties to places or times, only to the roads that unfold before them like ancient scrolls, unrolling under the bare feet of those who refuse to be tamed. There’s a pulse that beats in the heart of every vagabond — a steady, unyielding drum that echoes through the canyons and forests. It calls them to the forgotten corners of the world, where the stars shimmer like stories yet untold. This morning, a different rhythm filled my ears — a note of nostalgia, a yearning that felt like a distant breeze. My headphones cradled the familiar strains of Yanni’s  End of August  and  November Sky , melodies that connected me to a time when I felt as free as a bird. The music washed over me like a memory, reviving the dreams of traveling the ...

  Life often unfolds in a series of challenges that test our willpower, resilience, and ability to persevere. For many men, these challenges are amplified by societal expectations that dictate how they should respond to adversity — often with stoic silence and unyielding strength. But beneath this exterior lies a world of internal battles, where willpower becomes a crucial factor in navigating both physical and emotional terrain. Willpower is not just a fleeting concept; it is a fundamental driver of human behavior, rooted in both psychological and spiritual dimensions. According to psychologist Roy Baumeister, one of the leading researchers on self-control, willpower functions like a muscle — capable of becoming fatigued when overused but also stronger when consistently exercised. Baumeister’s research shows that people who regularly engage in activities that require self-discipline — like maintaining an exercise routine or a structured morning habit — tend to build greater resili...

  Today, on International Day of the Girl Child, we pause to reflect on the importance of celebrating girls and the incredible women in their lives—especially mothers. This day, established by the United Nations in 2012, shines a spotlight on the unique challenges that girls face globally and emphasizes the need for empowerment and equality. Mothers are often the backbone of families, juggling numerous responsibilities whilst instilling values, aspirations, and resilience in their children. According to a study by the World Bank, educated mothers are more likely to ensure that their daughters receive an education, which can have a transformative effect on entire communities. Nigeria has been home to many remarkable women who have fought tirelessly for the rights of girls and women. One such figure is Dora Akunyili , the former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Akunyili was a champion for public health and safety, an...

  Perception plays a vital role in shaping our thoughts, actions, and behaviors, especially in fast-paced environments like corporate settings. It influences how we view challenges and ultimately dictates our responses to them. In today’s competitive work landscape, perception can either be a catalyst for growth or a barrier to progress. During a recent management meeting, we discussed the importance of perception using the biblical story of the 12 spies as an analogy. Ten spies returned with a negative report, perceiving the land they were sent to explore as full of insurmountable obstacles, while two saw the potential for great success. This difference in perception defined their actions and the final outcome. The story resonates strongly in professional environments. In high-stakes corporate spaces, how we perceive challenges determines our capacity to solve problems and achieve success. Take, for example, Steve Jobs' journey after being ousted from Apple early in his career. Ma...