Mr. Jude Idada shares his encounter at a public medical facility. Here's what he said: --- I went there. This medical laboratory. One run by the government. One of the tall laboratory scientists was dazzling to look at and conservatively dressed. She routinely came out and chatted with us all as she coordinated the sample taking. A young man sitting two seats away from me. Who had authority in his mien and a certain material comfort in his dressing spoke to her to everyone's hearing. "Madam, good morning. Has any one told you that you are a very beautiful woman?" She turned to him as we all listened in. "No o. This is a work place. No body talks of beauty. It is hard work we compliment here." "In that case, you are a very beautiful and hardworking woman." "Thank you for your comment about my hardworking nature. We are trying to show you people that government establishments can be as efficient as private companies, even though the staff are paid little because you pay little." "That is not good madam, you deserve to make money. In fact I am imagining how you will look if someone spends good money on you." "Please o. I don't want anyone to spend money on me. I want to spend money on myself. That is why I want to be paid more for the work I do here, if you people agree to pay more for government services." People laughed and cracked jokes at her expense. And the man stayed on her with zero focus, a sly smile on his face. He started speaking again as people convoked a jocular bedlam. "Madam, what if I take you to dinner and show you how I can spend money on you while making you earn the money?" She titled her gaze from the folks she had been in a friendly banter and settled it on him. "Dinner?" "Yes. Any restaurant of your choice any where in Lagos." She lifted her hand up, fingers spread out on which there was a wedding band and a studded engagement ring. "I hope that you can see that I am a married woman." "Yes. But it makes no difference." "It makes no difference to take a married woman out for dinner?" "Yes. You will go home after dinner. So it has no effect on your marriage." "And what will I tell my husband that I am going to?: "You are an adult, I expect that you have known him long enough to know what to tell him and what not to tell him." Everyone fell silent and turned to him. He was sitting at the edge of his seat. Confidence oozing out. She was staring down at him. "And if I know that he will not permit me to go out to dinner with you?" "Then if I were you, I will either ask for forgiveness after I have gone out for dinner with me or I will tell him that something came up at work that demands me staying late." "Oh no o! I cannot lie to my husband." "In that case you should ask for forgiveness." She placed her arms across her chest and turned to him fully. "What is this thing you want to tell me about that you need dinner to tell me?" "It is a life changing offer I want to make to you and I believe you deserve to hear it over good food and drinks." "That is expensive to spend money on just because of an offer." "It is befitting the occasion." "If you have so much money why are you at a public hospital?" "I will tell you why if you come to dinner with me." She shifted her balance from one leg to the other and held his gaze. "So if I don't come for this dinner I will not hear this offer from you?" "Exactly." "What if I come with my husband for this dinner?" "Then I will not make the offer and he willl have to pay for the dinner." "Hmmmm." People started giving her unsolicited advice. Most of it funny and eliciting laughter. She kept looking at him. He kept looking at her. Finally she said after sighing and uncrossing her arms. "I cannot go for dinner with you if I cannot come with my husband." "Okay." "But if you give me your number, I will call you when I think about it and let you know if I can do lunch..." Lagos Jude Idada February 22, 2025 --- #gisthub

Did he succeed with his plan? Your thoughts. #gisthub

Duolingo's Owl Mascot Duo 'Dies' Amidst Super Bowl Drama: What Does This Mean for Users? Duolingo, the popular language-learning app, has recently stirred up a whirlwind of speculation and humor by announcing the "death" of its beloved green owl mascot, Duo. This announcement coincided with a series of events that have left users both amused and bewildered. The Announcement and Its Aftermath On February 11, 2025, Duolingo posted a message declaring Duo's demise, requesting privacy during an "investigation" into the matter. The post was laced with tongue-in-cheek references, humorously attributing Duo's death to users' failure to complete their lessons. This playful approach led to a flurry of memes and speculations across social media platforms. The Super Bowl Connection Adding to the intrigue, the announcement came shortly after Kendrick Lamar's performance at the Super Bowl halftime show, where he performed his diss track "Not Like Us," despite legal attempts by Drake to prevent it. Following this, Duolingo aired an ad mocking Drake, referencing his label's owl logo and promoting their new music course. The timing of these events has led to speculation about a connection between the Super Bowl performance, the ongoing feud between Lamar and Drake, and Duolingo's mascot. Duo's Role in Duolingo's Strategy Duo has been more than just a mascot; it has been a central figure in Duolingo's user engagement strategy. Known for its persistent reminders and playful nudges, Duo has become a symbol of the app's commitment to keeping users on track with their language learning goals. However, some users have expressed frustration with Duo's constant prompts, leading to discussions about the balance between motivation and annoyance. Looking Ahead While the "death" of Duo is likely a publicity stunt, it raises questions about the future direction of Duolingo's branding and user engagement strategies. Will this lead to a new mascot, a shift in the app's approach to user interaction, or is it simply a creative marketing move? Only time will tell. Your Thoughts What do you think about Duolingo's recent antics? Do you find Duo's reminders helpful or intrusive? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #gisthub

Clash of the Titans: Pat Mahomes Sr. and John Rocker Face Off in Fiery Confrontation Amidst Super Bowl Week In a surprising turn of events during Super Bowl week in New Orleans, Pat Mahomes Sr., father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and former MLB pitcher John Rocker were involved in a heated altercation on Bourbon Street. The confrontation, captured on video, showcased the two ex-athletes exchanging sharp words, with bystanders intervening to prevent escalation. This incident has reignited public interest in both figures, known for their colorful personalities and past controversies. Rocker, who played for teams like the Atlanta Braves and Cleveland Indians, is infamous for his outspoken nature and a 1999 interview where he made derogatory remarks about various groups. Mahomes Sr., a former MLB pitcher, has faced legal issues, including multiple DWI arrests. Adding fuel to the fire, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has hinted at a potential celebrity boxing match between Mahomes Sr. and Rocker at an upcoming "Rough N' Rowdy" event. While the fight hasn't been officially confirmed, the speculation has garnered significant attention. This unexpected clash between two former sports figures has captivated fans and the media alike, blending nostalgia with the allure of a potential showdown. Whether this leads to a full-fledged boxing match or remains a fleeting moment, it underscores the enduring public fascination with sports personalities and their off-field interactions. #gisthub

Marc Fogel's Release from Russian Detention: A Diplomatic Milestone Marc Fogel, a 61-year-old American history teacher, has been released from Russian detention after a prolonged legal battle. In August 2021, Fogel was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport for carrying approximately 17 grams of medical marijuana prescribed to him for chronic pain. Despite his claim of medical necessity, Russian authorities charged him with drug trafficking, leading to a 14-year prison sentence. The breakthrough in Fogel's case came through diplomatic negotiations led by U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff. On February 11, 2025, the White House announced that Fogel had been released in an "exchange," though specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz described the release as a "show of good faith" from Russia and a positive step toward ending the war in Ukraine. Fogel's return to the United States was marked by a heartfelt reunion with his family. Upon arrival, he expressed gratitude to President Trump for honoring a promise made to his mother, who had spoken to Trump at a rally shortly before an assassination attempt. Fogel referred to President Trump as a hero and thanked Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his role in securing his freedom. Fogel's case highlights the challenges faced by individuals detained under foreign legal systems and the critical role of diplomatic channels in resolving such situations. The resolution of Fogel's detention also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, particularly in the context of U.S.-Russia relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the specifics of the exchange remain confidential, the event signals potential shifts in diplomatic engagement between the two nations. For those interested in the broader implications of this case, it serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories behind international disputes and the enduring importance of diplomatic efforts in safeguarding the rights and well-being of citizens abroad. #gisthub #marcfogel

WHO Unveils Free Cancer Medicine Platform for Children in Poor Countries The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new initiative to provide free cancer medications to children in low- and middle-income countries, a move aimed at improving survival rates in regions where treatment access remains a major challenge. The program, currently in its pilot phase, has already delivered its first shipments to Mongolia and Uzbekistan. Plans are underway to expand to Ecuador, Jordan, Nepal, and Zambia, with a target of assisting around 5,000 children across at least 30 hospitals this year. This initiative is part of WHO’s broader effort to bridge the healthcare gap, as childhood cancer survival rates in poorer nations often fall below 30%, compared to approximately 80% in wealthier countries. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the organization's commitment to addressing this disparity. The program is supported by a $200 million investment from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, ensuring that children in resource-limited settings receive essential cancer treatments. With this initiative marking a major step in global health equity, the question remains: What more can be done to ensure lasting access to life-saving treatments for children in need? Share your thoughts below. #gisthub #punchng

Edo Lawmaker Exposes Police Claims on Traditional Ruler’s Release A member of the Edo State House of Assembly, Inegbeboh Eugene, has accused the police of misrepresenting the circumstances surrounding the release of the Onogie of Udo-Eguare Kingdom, Friday Ehizojie, who was kidnapped alongside five others. Contrary to claims by the Edo State Police Command that security operatives rescued the monarch, Eugene revealed that a ransom was paid to secure his freedom. The traditional ruler and his companions were abducted on February 3, 2025, while traveling along a remote path leading to their community. Following the incident, the police announced that they, alongside vigilantes and local hunters, successfully rescued the victims unharmed. However, speaking at the state assembly, Eugene dismissed this claim, stating that the community had to negotiate and pay the kidnappers before the monarch was released. He further criticized security agencies for their lack of action during the crisis, emphasizing the need for more effective and transparent security measures in the state. The revelation has raised concerns about the reliability of official reports on security operations and the increasing burden placed on communities to handle their own safety. With growing insecurity across Nigeria, many are questioning the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in tackling kidnappings and other violent crimes. How can security forces improve their response and regain public trust? Share your thoughts in the comments. #gisthub #punchng

Nigeria's Crude Production Costs Soar to N18 Trillion Annually Nigeria's annual expenditure on crude oil production has escalated to approximately N18 trillion, raising significant concerns among industry stakeholders. Data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission indicates that the minimum cost to extract a barrel of crude oil in Nigeria is about $25. With an average production of 1.4 million barrels per day, this translates to daily production costs of around $35 million, or N1.575 trillion monthly. Annually, this amounts to at least N18.9 trillion. Key Points: High Production Costs: The cost of crude production in Nigeria ranges between $25 and $40 per barrel, significantly higher than in other oil-producing nations. For instance, Saudi Arabia's production cost is approximately $10 per barrel. Impact on Revenue: The elevated production costs substantially reduce the government's share of oil revenues. For example, if crude oil is sold at $80 per barrel, only $32 would be available to the government after accounting for production costs. Government Response: The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has acknowledged the high production costs, attributing them to factors such as insecurity and operational challenges. The NUPRC aims to reduce production costs to $20 per barrel in 2025. The escalating costs of crude oil production in Nigeria demand urgent attention. Stakeholders must collaborate to identify and implement strategies to reduce these expenses, ensuring that a greater portion of oil revenues benefits the nation. What measures do you think should be taken to address this issue? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation. #gisthub

Relationship expert shares critical questions one should ask to avoid marital issues. Watch, Comment and Share #gisthub https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4Q_m2fsGAIU

Celebrity Accountant Shares Her Thought On What She Calls "Good Advice" Mrs. Chioma Ifeanyi Eze, a professional accountant and founder of Data Entry Academy shared the post below: "I have settled in my heart that my definition of good advice is any advice that I can give my own child from my womb. There are many other things I might permit on social media because I like to be flexible to the choices of others. But nwannem, personally, there are loads of quiet advice that I will silently give to my own child, in private. Example - If you get married at 43, I will rejoice with you and dance with you and celebrate you. But you see for Chioma to open her mouth and advise my own child from my womb to take her time, build herself, become a power woman and marry whenever, I no fit talk am. I will advice my own child from my womb to marry earlier and continue building herself. Social media fit talk am o. But Chioma cannot say it to her own child. Anything I cannot say to my own child, I will not say to anyone else. Moral of this story - While taking advice from social media, ask yourself, "Can this person say this thing to his/her own child?" Kindly feel free not to agree with me. This is my truth. #chiomaifeanyieze" --- What is your thought on her submission? Do you agree? #gisthub

Falana Sues Meta for $5M Over False Health Claims and Privacy Violation Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights lawyer, has initiated a lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, seeking $5 million in damages. The lawsuit alleges that Meta violated his privacy by publishing a false health advertisement on its platform, falsely portraying him as suffering from prostatitis—a condition he asserts he has never had. Key Details: False Advertisement: The contested content appeared on the "AfriCare Health Centre" Facebook page, featuring Falana's name, image, and a voiceover falsely attributing to him a 16-year battle with prostatitis, including symptoms like pain, fatigue, and urinary issues. Legal Grounds: Falana argues that the unauthorized use of his identity infringes upon his fundamental right to privacy under Section 37 of the Nigerian Constitution and Sections 24(1)(A) and (E) & Section 34(1)(D) of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023. Damages Sought: He is seeking a court order for the immediate removal of the false video and $5 million in general damages for the distress and reputational harm caused. This legal action underscores the growing concerns over privacy violations and the spread of misinformation on social media platforms. What are your thoughts on the lawsuit filed by Femi Falana against Meta? How do you think this case will impact privacy rights and the responsibility of social media platforms? Share your insights in the comments below and join the conversation. #gisthub

Call For Applications: Innovate for Impact Challenge - Empowering AgTech Startups (up to $50,000 prize) The World Food Prize Foundation, in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, has launched the Innovate for Impact Challenge to accelerate agricultural technology (AgTech) innovation. This initiative aims to support early-stage, tech-driven startups addressing global food security and sustainability challenges. Key Details: Global Call for Startups: The challenge invites startups worldwide, emphasizing innovation and sustainability. Live Pitch Event: Finalists will present their AgTech solutions during the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue. Top Prize: The winning startup will receive $50,000 to advance their impact on global food security. Eligibility Criteria: Company Stage: Open to early-stage, for-profit startups, from validated concepts to pre-Series A funding. Founder Commitment: At least one founder must work full-time on the project. Evaluation Metrics: Startups will be assessed on innovation impact, market potential, sustainability contribution, and scalability. Prizes and Recognition: 1st Place: $50,000 2nd Place: $10,000 3rd Place: $5,000 Finalists will gain global exposure by presenting at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, connecting with over 1,500 food and agricultural leaders from more than 70 countries. Judging Panel: The panel includes Han Chen, a business leader in sustainable innovation, and Lazarus Lynch, a chef and advocate for inclusive food security solutions. Additional judges will be announced prior to the final pitch in October 2025. Timeline and Application Process Applications Open: January 21, 2025 Submission Deadline: April 15, 2025 Top 10 Announced: June 2025 at DialogueNEXT India Virtual Public Voting: June-July 2025 Top 3 Announced: August 2025 Final Competition: October 21-23, 2025, at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa Apply here - https://www.worldfoodprize.org/en/nominations/innovate_for_impact_challenge/ Share with your contacts! #gisthub