Alternative Perspectives 1: Quality Publications & Indexing
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
I want to share an interesting discussion I had with my friend, Dr. Usman Isyaku in his posts about how to publish freely, where to publish, and whether university-based journals should be avoided entirely. I will reproduce his posts which are available on his Facebook wall, and my comments for context. Happy reading.
Dr. Usman Isyaku
Post 1
I often get this question: “where can I publish my research without paying?”. Journals that are indexed in the Scopus database (Elsevier, Springer, Taylor and Francis etc) are entirely free. I mean zero article processing and review fees. All you need is to submit something original, and they have a software called iThenticate to check it line by line. The publishers make their money through access subscriptions by individuals or universities. You can pay up to 10-100 US dollars to access a single paper if the journal has a high impact factor ranking and the content is extremely useful.
In some cases, some of these journals can offer Open Access options, where the author(s) can pay fees for the paper to be openly accessible to everyone for free indefinitely. Prices can be prohibitively expensive ranging from 500-3000 US dollars for a single paper. This is not a mandatory payment, and the paper can still be published if authors cannot afford it.
Any journal that is asking for money from authors beyond open access fees is a money grab that must be avoided if authors want to publish with impact. I personally do not publish in those journals, and will not read or cite their contents in my publications. 99.9% of everything written therein is a plagiarised junk or unimportant information that nobody needs. They are targeted at those who are desperate for academic promotions and nothing else. Excellent publications can be extremely rewarding in many ways. Publish wisely!
Post 2
How about our university based journals?
1. Politically correct answer: they are reviewed by our researchers and are accepted in our university system. It is good to publish locally to demonstrate local knowledge and engagement with our experts. They are more recognised by the promotion committee and are highly recommended.
2. Non-politically correct answer: they are not properly peer reviewed and indexed for experts to access, read, cite, and critique. Contents are often disconnected from state of the art knowledge and methods. They are operated by a small circle of friends and well wishers. Avoid them.
Choose your answer!
My 1st Comment
While I agree with some of your positions on this matter, I would like to make some clarifications that I feel are important to this discussion based on my little experience in research publications in Nigeria and abroad.
There are 2 distinct categories that we need to accept, each having its own peculiar properties as follows.
(1) Nigerian-based researchers
This category includes those Nigerians whose research experience is only limited to Nigeria. In other words, they have never been abroad for any postgraduate degrees or postdoctoral fellowships. You can find in this category, those never heard about Scopus or ISI, which is the the gold standard for scientific journals, and they are not to blame entirely. Institute for Scientific Information (ISI), formerly under Thomson Reuters and now under Clarivate Analytics, primarily focuses on highly-cited, peer-reviewed journals in science, technology, medicine, and social sciences. While Scopus covers more journals and areas than ISI due to the latter’s stricter criteria for including a journal in the ISI core collection, ISI indexation is considered superior, especially in science and engineering fields. Most of the ISI-indexed journals are also indexed by Scopus. Many Nigerian-based researchers now know about Scopus and ISI journals. But the million-dollar question now is the access to these worlds of the highest quality journals. Nigerian universities either do not have the money to subscribe to these databases or it is not their priority to do so or fail to renew subscriptions in some instances. For someone who does not know the kind of quality information he is missing without these databases, it would be business as usual, and open-access journals from Google Scholar and Google Search engine suffice. He would patronize local journals and other international journals with questionable quality and move on with his life. Others who are very passionate about the quality of their research, could make a list of some good articles without open access that they came across, and ask their friends abroad who may have access to these articles to get them to improve the quality of their research.
I can remember when I was doing my master’s degree research work in the late 2000s, one of my mentors, Prof. @Nafiu Abdu (from ABU), introduced me to the HINARI (launched by WHO) and AGORA (launched by UN) databases for developing countries where I freely accessed high-quality journals. This was in addition to the numerous other resources that my other mentor, Prof. @Nuhu Muazu Dalhat sent me from KFUPM, Saudi Arabia.
Exposure to these high-quality research materials had a profound impact on my quest for a PhD in that I had resolved NEVER to earn my PhD from any Nigerian university. If I could not find any scholarship abroad, I was determined to utilize my meager salary if it would be sufficient to pay my way to Ghana to earn my PhD there, but not in Nigeria. In Allah’s mercy, I got the KFUPM scholarship to study in Saudi Arabia. And the rest is history.
Another major challenge for researchers whose area entails elaborate laboratory experimental study and adequate material characterization is the lack of the requisite equipment either to perform the lab experiments or test the results to such a standard that the research outcome could be published in those high-quality Scopus or ISI-indexed journals. There are 2 problems here. One is the lack of research funds to purchase these equipment, and in a few cases where some of these equipment are available, the tests may be prohibitively expensive for the researcher or they may not be properly maintained. I know this for a fact because I supervise MSc and PhD students in Nigeria. In this unfortunate situation, one has to make do with what is available as well as affordable.
However, I assure you that even in the absence of a conducive research atmosphere in Nigeria, some researchers are doing excellent and original work despite publishing them in local or non-Scopus-indexed journals to the extent that some are getting patents for their inventions. Patent signifies the highest level of originality. Nigeria also has a couple of local journals indexed by ISI. The awareness of publishing in high-impact factor journals is on the rise despite the above challenges.
(2) Diasporan researchers
This includes those with any foreign touch in research. It could be spending a few months abroad for benchwork, earning a degree, especially an MSc or PhD, or a postdoctoral fellowship, or working in a country with a conducive atmosphere for research. Those who belong to this category are more often than not exposed to some of the best resources for conducting quality research that can be published in the top-ranking journals available. Research funds, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment for experimental research and testing, subscription to all the top databases, technical expertise, relevant computer packages, and supercomputers for extensive simulations, and adequate remunerations are not lacking at all. With these resources, Nigerians would be churning out articles in some of the highest-quality journals available and obtaining US patents every now and then. This goes to tell you that the major problem necessitating those Nigerian-based researchers to publish in local or non-Scopus-indexed journals is not necessarily because they cannot perform high-quality research publishable in those journals, it has more to do with the lack of a conducive atmosphere to research bedeviling our institutions. Some of those in this category usually try to distinguish themselves by doing a quality job as much as possible when they go back to Nigeria, others are caught up by the Nigerian reality and blend as though they never had any foreign research exposure. But it is not something new that Nigerians are among the most intelligent and hardworking people on Earth. Just give them the opportunity and a conducive atmosphere, and see how they will outshine others in almost everything.
The bottom line here is that one has got to make do with what is available and affordable under given circumstances. At the same time, one can attain a renowned position in research, with a humble background.
Dr. Usman Isyaku’s Response
Prof, the only line of separation between the 2 categories you mentioned is the willingness to follow standards. I know Nigerian researchers who are publishing with impact and they have never trained abroad. Our desire to create a separate category for mediocrity, accepting their excuses, and recognizing them as equivalent to the competent ones will do more harm to our tertiary education. I have no academic respect for junk journals, irrespective of those who publish therein and the excuses that produced them.
My 2nd Comment
(1) I am not after creating a separate category for mediocrity. I am only providing another perspective so that readers can be well-informed with respect to the background problems and challenges that led us to where we are today.
(2) It is so easy to criticize a faulty system, but changing such a system entails having a thorough understanding of what corrupted the system in the first place with a view to bringing the necessary changes for improvement.
(3) Nobody should have any respect for junk or predatory journals, and I don’t want you to relax your position on that. However, I want you to understand that some universities, at least ABU for a fact – where you and I did our undergraduate from – are striving to stamp out these predatory journals by blacklisting them. Hence, they cannot be considered for promotion. The list is being updated periodically.
(4) On university-based journals and other local journals in Nigeria, it will appear inappropriate for one to simply advise that they should all be avoided, because according to your other post on the same subject matter, “they are not properly peer-reviewed and indexed for experts to access, read, cite, and critique.” This is a gross over-generalization and does not represent the facts on the ground.
(5) What are these facts? One, many university-based journals are available online now for experts to access, read, cite, and critique. Two, there are Nigerian journals (university-based or otherwise) that are indexed by both Scopus and ISI with the associated impact factor from each. This, I have known for almost a decade now. Below are just 2 samples of these journals, one is a university-based, published by the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, and the second one is a publication of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN).
ISI & Scopus-indexed Nigerian Journals
(a) Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.
Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin
(b) Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice.
This is the official publication of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN).
(6) You see, getting indexation by either Scopus or ISI does happen overnight. Journals have to be up and doing, publishing for some time, applying, and awaiting the decisions from these bodies. This could take a very long time. In my view, rather than advising researchers to boycott all university-based journals some of whom are actually Scopus and ISI-indexed, Nigerian diasporan academics can strengthen and support our local journals to improve their quality and standards to such a level that we will have many more Scopus and ISI-indexed journals in Nigeria rather than condemning all of them to hell. This does not in any way imply that we should abandon the renowned international publishers for local ones.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
I have been taking cow’s milk, meat, poultry, and other dairy byproducts for time immemorial. I started learning about lifestyle enhancements in 2015 when I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I changed my lifestyle and reversed it in 2016, i.e. 7 years ago and counting. I stumbled upon low-fat plant-based diets in 2020 after watching the Lifestyle Enhancement Conference videos that I shared with you earlier. The presenters emphasized that one of the main keys to the prevention and reversal of many chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, heart disease, etc. was eating low-fat plant-based diets exclusively. Plant-based diets essentially consist of greens, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, especially legumes such as beans. In other words, it implies ditching all animal-based byproducts, from dairy byproducts (fresh milk, powdered, yogurt, cream, cheese, butter, ghee, ice cream, condensed milk, etc.) to meat (red meat, poultry, fish), eggs and all other derivatives from these products, i.e., a VEGAN diet. This is because of the overwhelming and long-term negative impacts that these animal products have on our overall health. I set a goal back then in 2020, that I want to become a vegan one day but it has been very difficult for me to ditch these animal byproducts, especially milk, yogurt, fish, and egg that I take almost daily.
Listening to Dr. Chidi in the past few days discuss the various side effects of these animal byproducts, especially cow’s protein in milk and beef has again strengthened my resolve more than ever before to ditch these animal byproducts for good except fish. Yes, I need oily fish to get adequate omega-3 intake instead of taking omega-3 supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining good health. You can say that I am now 99 %. There is also economic gain to becoming a vegan. You will save the money you used to spend on these animal byproducts. Maybe I will ditch fish in the future to become 100 % eating only low-fat plant-based diets. I also call on all, diabetics and non-diabetics, to set similar goals and work hard to achieve them. I will preach this lifestyle to my family members with the hope that one day, they will join me on board. Always aim high, but start small. Remember, we are what we eat, and let our medicine be our food.
There is good news for cow milk addicts. Soy milk from soya beans is an excellent plant-based alternative with as much protein as cow milk but fewer saturated fats, overall fats, and calories but more expensive. There are other plant-based alternatives such as oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk, etc.
In this video, Dr. Chidi Ngwaba, a renowned lifestyle physician who swapped the surgeon’s knife for lifestyle medicine to save more lives, trained at University College London (UCL) and Cambridge, has been reversing these chronic illnesses for the past 26 years now, discussed several important things such as:
Some constituents of milk can increase the risk of cancers in general and breast cancer in particular. Eliminate cow’s milk in your diet. Soy milk, on the other hand, has what it takes to prevent breast cancer.
Cow’s protein found in its milk has been incredibly linked to triggering type 1 diabetes in children.
Generally, cow’s protein in its milk and meat can trigger autoimmune responses in our bodies. This can lead to a number of other autoimmune diseases and cancers.
Prostate cancer can be reversed using plant-based diets.
Strive to get adequate sunlight for vitamin D3 production and other benefits. Otherwise, take vitamin D3 supplements under the supervision of your doctor to boost your immune system.
For more details, endeavor to watch the video below.
Outcomes of Brainstorming Session 1 (Newton vs. Einstein)
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
After brainstorming on who deserves to be crowned the G.O.A.T. between Newton and Einstein for almost 2 weeks – I engaged and debated all commentators on their various viewpoints so as to buttress the achievements and impacts of these great geniuses – the following outcomes can be deduced from the brainstorming session.
Newton
Newton had built on what Galileo Galilei had started before him on motion and astronomy and unified as well as invented other simple foundational physics principles (laws of motion, universal gravitation, optics, heat, viscosity, etc.) into what we know today. Dr. Michio Kaku, an American professor of theoretical physics, put it simply that Newton had invented physics from scratch, and without him, there would be no physics. Newton also invented calculus – touted as the most important achievement in modern mathematics – and contributed significantly to mathematics and astronomy. He is also considered the greatest of all astronomers, after solving the problem of predicting exactly the positions and motions of stars, planets, and their moons in one magnificent sweep. He was both an excellent theoretical and experimental physicist (2 in 1) if not the greatest to have ever combined these two areas.
Einstein
Einstein, a theoretical physicist, only used a pen and paper to come up with his groundbreaking theoretical explanations and theories on photoelectric effects (won a Nobel Prize in Physics for this work and laid the foundations for quantum mechanics), Brownian motion, the special theory of relativity (E=mc2 – mass-energy equivalence, the faster an object moves, the slower time ticks for it, an extension of Newton’s laws of motion for objects moving at extremely high speeds), and the general theory of relativity (considers gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by the presence of mass and energy, gravitational pull according to Newton is replaced by space push, also an extension of Newton’s law of universal gravitation for high gravity objects). The mathematics of his last theory indicates that the universe is expanding which led other scientists to formulate the Big Bang Theory. When other physicists solved his field equation of the last theory during Einstein’s lifetime, they predicted the existence of gravitational waves and black holes, which have all been detected or observed in 2015 and 2019 respectively, despite Einstein’s vehement rejection of their existence when he was alive. The last 2 theories of relativity are very difficult to understand – although I have simplified them here – how much more difficult to put them forward originally! Again, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, the world’s most famous astrophysicist, said that when you plug in low speed in the special theory of relativity and low gravity in the general theory of relativity, they would reduce to Newton’s equations of motion and gravity respectively. Einstein is regarded as the most famous scientist that ever lived, the greatest genius of the 20th century, and probably, the greatest theoretical physicist of all time.
Other Notable Mentions
Aristotle
Michael Hart describes Aristotle as “the first genuine scientist” and “the most influential individual in the history of Western thought.” He credits Aristotle with developing the scientific method, making significant contributions to logic, biology, physics, and metaphysics, and founding the Lyceum, the Peripatetic school of philosophy. Aristotle is still considered the greatest philosopher and scientist of the ancient world. Many of his ideas are outdated today. He was a leading expert in every field of science during his time, an incredible feat that is not likely to be duplicated by any man in the future.
Faraday
If you are enjoying electricity today, which I am sure you are, then you need to thank Faraday. He discovered electric and magnetic fields which led to the invention of electric motors, generators, and transformers. Although he had no formal education and knew no mathematics, he was the greatest experimental physicist the world has ever known.
Verdict
Comparing Aristotle, Newton, and Einstein, it is evident that they all made groundbreaking and impactful contributions to their respective fields. While Aristotle laid the foundations for logic, metaphysics, physics, biology, ethics, and politics, Newton revolutionized our understanding of motion, gravity, optics, and calculus, and Einstein transformed our perception of space, time, gravity, mass-energy equivalence, and provided a theoretical explanation of Brownian motion based on his theory of relativity, thus confirming the existence of an atom. Each of their contributions has had a profound and lasting impact on our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
Based on the foregoing analysis of the various contributions of Newton and Einstein, Sir Isaac Newton has won the crown of the G.O.A.T.
However, when you take into account, those who had the greatest effect on history and on the course of the world according to the total amount of influence that each of them had on human history and on the everyday lives of other human beings, then, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the most influential person to have ever walked the face of the Earth. Michael Hart, an American Jewish astrophysicist and author of ‘The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History’, ranked Prophet Muhammad number 1, Newton 2, Einstein 10, and Aristotle 13. You can download this wonderful piece from this Telegram online library:
Hart continues, “Furthermore, Muhammad (unlike Jesus) was a secular as well as a religious leader. In fact, as the driving force behind the Arab conquests, he may well rank as the most influential political leader of all time.”
The Quran is a book of spiritual guidance, and it also contains many proven scientific verses. Reading the Quran with the intention of deriving spiritual guidance from these verses can be a very rewarding experience for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Another way to derive spiritual guidance from the Quran’s scientific verses is to reflect on the wisdom and power of God. The Quran describes many of the natural wonders of the universe, such as the creation of the heavens and the Earth, the Big Bang, the Big Crunch, the development of the human embryo, and the intricate balance of the ecosystem more than 1400 years ago. Reflecting on these verses can help us to appreciate the greatness of God and to develop a deeper sense of humility.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
Exercise: The Miracle Drug You Didn’t Know You Needed, Unlocking a World of Health and Happiness
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Highlights:
The Power of Exercise
Hormones for Better Mood Stability and Fight Depression
Heart Health
Normalizing Blood Pressure
Good Glycemic Control
Weight Management
Can You Lose Weight Without Exercise?
Inclusivity and Diversity
Other Benefits of Exercise
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
What Types of Exercise Are Best?
Can Exercise Cause Weight Gain?
Introduction
Exercise is often touted as a weight loss tool, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In reality, exercise offers a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s crucial to prioritize our health and well-being. While exercise is often associated with weight loss, its benefits extend far beyond shedding a few kilograms. From boosting mood stability to promoting heart health, exercise truly has something to offer everyone. In this article, I will delve into the wide-ranging advantages of exercise and explore why it’s an essential component of a healthy lifestyle.
The Power of Exercise
Exercise is not just about fitting into a smaller dress size or appearing more “fit.” It has the power to positively impact our lives in numerous ways. Let’s explore some of the remarkable benefits that exercise brings, regardless of age or body type.
Hormones for Better Mood Stability and Fight Depression
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins – often referred to as the “feel-good” hormones – which have mood-boosting effects. Endorphins can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. Regular exercise has been shown to be effective in treating depression and improving mood stability. Hence, it becomes a natural remedy for boosting mental well-being, providing a refreshing sense of clarity and positivity.
Heart Health
Engaging in cardiovascular exercises, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, strengthens the heart muscles and improves blood circulation. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and promotes overall cardiovascular health, ensuring a strong and resilient ticker.
Normalizing Blood Pressure
Exercise helps to lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow. This is especially beneficial for people with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
Good Glycemic Control
Exercise plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk. Physical activity enhances insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to effectively utilize glucose for energy. This leads to better glycemic control and reduces the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes. Exercise can help to prevent type 2 diabetes and improve overall health.
Weight Management
Although exercise alone may not magically melt away excess calories consumed from unhealthy foods, it plays a crucial role in weight management. Combining regular exercise with a balanced diet helps create a calorie deficit, aiding in weight loss. Additionally, exercise promotes the development of lean muscle mass, which boosts metabolism, leading to more efficient calorie burning even at rest.
Can You Lose Weight Without Exercise?
Yes, it is possible to lose weight without exercise. While exercise can be an effective tool for weight loss, creating a calorie deficit through dietary changes alone can also lead to weight loss. Here are some strategies to help achieve weight loss without exercise:
Caloric Deficit: Weight loss primarily occurs when you consume fewer calories than you burn. By carefully monitoring your calorie intake and creating a calorie deficit, you can achieve weight loss. This involves consuming fewer calories through portion control, choosing nutrient-dense foods, and reducing excessive calorie-dense foods.
Balanced and Nutrient-Dense Diet: Focus on incorporating a variety of whole foods into your diet, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. These nutrient-dense foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, keeping you satisfied and supporting overall health.
Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Practice mindful eating by eating slowly, savoring each bite, and being aware of your body’s signals for hunger and satiety. This can help prevent overeating and promote better portion control.
Hydration: Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help with weight loss. Water can help you feel more full, curb unnecessary snacking, and support overall hydration and metabolism.
Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting enough quality sleep each night. Lack of sleep has been linked to increased appetite, cravings, and weight gain. Aim for 7 – 9 hours of sleep for adults to support your weight loss goals.
Stress Management: High-stress levels can contribute to emotional eating and hinder weight loss efforts. Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in activities you enjoy to help reduce stress and emotional eating. The stress hormone cortisol can cause weight gain.
It’s important to note that incorporating regular exercise into your routine not only aids in weight loss but also offers numerous health benefits. Combining exercise with a balanced diet can enhance weight loss efforts, improve physical fitness, and support overall well-being.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Exercise knows no boundaries when it comes to age, gender, or body type. It benefits people of all backgrounds, offering a multitude of activities to suit individual preferences. Whether it’s strength training, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), there’s something for everyone. Finding an exercise routine that you genuinely enjoy increases the likelihood of long-term adherence and reaps the full range of benefits.
Other Benefits of Exercise
Stronger bones and muscles
Improved balance and coordination
Reduced risk of falls
Increased energy levels
Better sleep quality
Improved cognitive function
Reduced risk of some types of cancer
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. Children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.
If you’re new to exercise, start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you spend exercising each week. It’s also important to choose activities that you enjoy. This will make it more likely that you’ll stick with an exercise routine.
What Types of Exercise Are Best?
There are many different types of exercise, so you can choose something that you enjoy and that fits your fitness level. Some examples of moderate-intensity aerobic activity include:
Walking
Biking
Swimming
Dancing
Gardening
Examples of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity include:
Running
Playing sports
HIIT workouts
You can also combine aerobic activity with strength training exercises, such as lifting weights or resistance bands. Strength training helps to build and maintain muscle mass, which is important for overall health and well-being.
Can Exercise Cause Weight Gain?
Yes, strength training can lead to an increase in weight, but it’s important to understand that this weight gain is typically due to an increase in muscle mass rather than fat. Strength training involves engaging in exercises that target and challenge your muscles, such as weightlifting or resistance training. Resistance training is a form of exercise that focuses on improving muscular strength, endurance, and overall fitness. It involves using external resistance, such as free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or even body weight, to create resistance against muscle contractions. The primary goal of resistance training is to progressively overload the muscles, challenging them to adapt and become stronger over time. The resistance can be adjusted by increasing the weight, repetitions, or intensity of the exercises.
Strength training can help improve your body composition by reducing body fat percentage and increasing muscle mass. While your overall weight may stay the same or slightly increase, the composition of your body will shift towards a higher proportion of lean muscle mass and lower fat mass. This can lead to a more toned and defined physique. Strength training is essentially what we call bodybuilding.
Conclusion
Exercise is an invaluable tool in our pursuit of a healthy, fulfilling life. It goes beyond mere weight loss, delivering a plethora of advantages that enhance both our physical and mental well-being. From the release of mood-boosting hormones to the prevention of chronic illnesses, exercise empowers us to take control of our health. So, let’s embrace exercise, find joy in movement, and unlock a world of health and happiness. Remember, consistency is the key to reaping the full rewards that exercise has to offer. Start today, and let your journey toward a healthier you begin!
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
Between Glycemic Index & Glycemic Load, Which One Should A Diabetic Use?
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Introduction
Are you looking for the ultimate guide to managing your blood sugar levels as a diabetic? Look no further! In the world of nutrition, two terms frequently mentioned are Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL). Both play a crucial role in understanding how different foods affect your blood sugar levels. In this article, I will explore the differences between GI and GL with specific examples, and offer insights into which one should be prioritized by individuals with diabetes.
GI Vs. GL
Glycemic load (GL) is a measure of how quickly and how much food raises blood sugar levels. It considers both the glycemic index (GI) of the food and the amount of carbohydrates in a serving.
The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels compared to pure glucose. It is calculated by comparing the blood sugar response after eating a particular food to the blood sugar response after eating pure glucose.
GL is a more realistic measure of how foods raise blood sugar levels than GI because it takes into account the amount of carbohydrates in a serving. This is important because a food with a high GI may not have a high GL if it contains a small amount of carbohydrates. This means that even if a food has a low glycemic index, consuming a large quantity of it could still lead to a significant increase in blood sugar.
The glycemic load (GL) ranges are as follows:
Low: 1-10
Medium: 11-19
High: 20 or more
How is GL calculated?
GL is calculated by multiplying the GI of a food by the amount of carbohydrates in a serving and dividing by 100.
Example:
Watermelon has a GI of 76 and 11 grams of carbohydrate per serving.
White bread has a GI of 70 and 23 grams of carbohydrate per serving.
GL of watermelon: 76 x 11 / 100 = 8.36 (Low GL)
GL of white bread: 70 x 23 / 100 = 16.1 (Medium GL)
In this example, watermelon has a lower GL than white bread, even though it has a higher GI. This is because watermelon has a lower carbohydrate content per serving. This means that eating a slice of white bread will raise blood sugar levels more than eating a wedge of watermelon, even though watermelon has a higher GI.
Other results reported lower GL for watermelon (<5) and higher white or brown bread (>20).
GL is a more useful tool for people with diabetes or other blood sugar control problems. This is because it can help them to choose foods that are less likely to cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
Here are some tips for using GL to choose healthy foods:
Choose foods with a low or medium GL.
a) Be aware of the GL of foods that you eat frequently.
b) Pair high-GL foods with low-GL foods to help slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and reduce the impact on blood sugar levels.
c) Eat foods in moderation, even if they have a low GL.
How To Pair High-GL Foods With Low-GL Foods
To demonstrate a practical pairing of high-GL foods with low-GL foods to reduce the impact on blood sugar levels stated in b) above, see one of my meals below, consisting of Jollof spaghetti with spinach (GL of about 15 – 20), salad cocktail (GL of about 3), 2 cuts of fried mutton (GL of about 15 – 20), and orange (GL of about 6). Jollof spaghetti alone has a GL of about 25 (High), adding spinach has reduced its GL to a range of 15 – 20 (Medium/High).
Now, including a salad cocktail made from carrot, cucumber, habanero, garlic, and onion in addition to orange will bring down the average GL of the meal to within the low range, thereby not spiking my blood sugar level. Notice that the salad and the spaghetti are of the same quantity, portion size control is very important for a nutritious meal. Hence, despite ‘cheating’ with spaghetti, I have added enough low-GL foods to dilute the high-GL Jollof spaghetti I wouldn’t ordinarily eat. I do this once in a while during my ‘cheat day’, because, spaghetti is one of my favorite meals. A cheat day for a diabetic is a day when they allow themselves to eat foods that are not normally included in their diabetes diet, such as high-sugar and high-carbohydrate foods. I would always jog up and down the staircase of a 6-storey building 3 times immediately after eating my meal. This workout is essential for improved blood sugar control, increased insulin sensitivity, reduced risk of heart disease, increased energy level, and improved mood. Engage in at least 5 – 10 minutes of workout immediately after each meal.
What do you expect how healthier this meal would have been if the spaghetti were to be replaced with beans or oats porridge and the fried mutton cuts with boiled fish cuts? A diabetic should always avoid fried foods in general and fried red meat in particular due to their high GL. They can spike your blood sugar level, add unhealthy fats to the diet, and contribute to weight gain. I would normally take fish, but I ran out of stock. Sardine and salmon are top on the recommended list. Fish oil is needed because it is healthy, but chicken’s and red meat’s fats are considered unhealthy overall.
This example also demonstrates the importance of eating fruit with every meal as well as salad. They have low GL and help in adding fiber and nutrients to your diet for good gut health and sugar level control. Eat a fruit with every meal if you can.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to managing blood sugar levels as a diabetic, both the Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) can be valuable tools. While GI provides a general idea of the impact of carbohydrates on blood sugar, GL takes into account serving sizes, providing a more accurate representation of a food’s effect on blood glucose levels. For overall blood sugar control, it is recommended for diabetics to consider GL instead of GI when choosing healthy diabetic meals. By appropriately pairing high-GL foods with low-GL foods, individuals with diabetes can make informed choices that promote stable blood sugar levels and improved overall health. Take control of your health and make informed choices for a brighter, healthier future!
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
Diabetes Reversed in 7 Days: A Compelling Success Story
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Introduction
In a world filled with the complexities of chronic diseases, it’s truly extraordinary when a success story defies the odds and inspires us all. Today, we have the privilege of sharing an awe-inspiring account of one individual’s journey toward reversing diabetes in just 7 days, solely through the transformative power of lifestyle changes. The patient is a resilient and determined individual who embraced a revolutionary approach to managing his diabetes. Rather than relying solely on medication, he embarked on a 7-day adventure, committed to proving that lifestyle modifications hold the key to regaining control over his health.
Throughout this article, we will delve into the remarkable details of his inspiring journey, exploring the pivotal moments, and strategies that propelled him toward success. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind his 7-day transformation, and discover the remarkable potential that lies within each of us.
His story serves as a testament to the incredible possibilities that emerge when we believe in the power of our choices and embrace the opportunity for change. Are you ready to embark on this remarkable journey together? Stay tuned for the next installment as we uncover the secrets behind Sarah’s seven-day transformation and explore the life-changing potential of lifestyle modifications in the quest to reverse diabetes.
How He Did It?
Find the details provided below.
He is 49 years old, weighs 130 kg, and BMI of 40.
He was diagnosed on 29 July 2023 with the following: Fasting – 18.1 mmol/L (325.8 mg/dL), HbA1c – 11.8 %. He was placed on 1000 mg of Glucophage after every meal. He is also hypertensive and on medication.
I started following up on his case last week on Friday, 13 October 2023. Before that day, his fasting blood sugar (FBS) used to be around 10 mmol/L.
I would advise him on what food to eat daily and emphasize his daily workout which is a brisk walk for about 1 hr just before Magrib after which he eats dinner.
He takes 4-point glucometer readings daily. Fasting and 2 hr after breakfast, just before dinner, and 2 hr after dinner. He eats only twice daily.
Within the first 3 days, his FBS fell from 10 to an average value of about 8.5. There were 2 readings of the 2hr after breakfast above 12 (12.3 and 12.8).
I asked him to be monitoring his blood pressure daily from Day 2.
I asked him to stop taking diabetic medication after Day 6, and his FBS was 6.2 on Day 7. The normal FBS is up to 7. All other readings were within the normal range on Day 7 despite stopping the diabetic medication. In addition, I asked him to observe a 10 – 15 min workout after every meal from Day 7 when the medication was stopped to avoid blood sugar spikes after the meal.
Accordingly, with this change in his lifestyle, his blood pressure fell from 145/99 and 150/96 on Days 2 & 3 respectively to an average of 121/84, which is normal. I hope that it will fall further to such an extent that he will also be weaned off antihypertensive medication. His headaches resulting from the uncontrolled blood pressure are all gone now.
He has been successfully weaned off of diabetic medication and his blood pressure fell from high to the normal range in just 7 days! Yes, 7 days.
Conclusion
I weaned myself off diabetic medication in 2016 and my blood sugar level has always been within the normal range since then. With the help of my team, we helped several other diabetics normalize their blood sugar levels and in some cases wean them off diabetic medications completely in a similar way to the above. You can also do it if you are diabetic or you can follow up with your loved one in a similar way if he or she is diabetic to change the narrative. Nothing is hidden in this process, I have already explained all the good and the bad foods for diabetics in several of my articles and presentations on the Diabetic Monitoring Forum (DMF). Join us to say goodbye to diabetes through lifestyle enhancement without selling any diabetic medication to anyone in any form.
This success story is a reminder that diabetes is not a life sentence. With lifestyle changes, it is possible to reverse diabetes and live a healthy, active life. If you are diabetic or you love someone who is diabetic, please know that there is hope.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
The Power of Empathy: Nurturing Compassionate Connections in an Unempathetic World
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Highlights
The Essence of Empathy
What is Emotional Intelligence?
How Does Empathy Affect Emotional Intelligence?
Empathy and Personal Development
The Bright Triad
Exploitation of Empathy
Understanding Empathy in Mental Disorders
Raising Empathetic Children
Empathy in Interpersonal and Intimate Relationships
Introduction
Welcome to a thought-provoking exploration of empathy, a fundamental trait that shapes our relationships and influences our personal growth. In this article, we will delve into the significance of empathy, its impact on emotional intelligence, and how it can foster compassion, consideration, and overall kindness. We will also shed light on the unfortunate exploitation of empathetic individuals by certain personality patterns while offering insights into raising empathetic children and understanding the challenges faced by those with specific mental disorders. Join us on this journey as we uncover the profound role empathy plays in various interpersonal and intimate relationships.
The Essence of Empathy
Empathy, distinct from sympathy, is a powerful force that allows us to understand and share the genuine feelings of others. It serves as a cornerstone for emotional intelligence, enabling us to connect deeply with those around us. By embracing empathy, we become better equipped to navigate the complexities of human emotions, fostering harmonious relationships and personal growth.
What is Emotional Intelligence?
Emotional intelligence, often referred to as EQ (Emotional Quotient), is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It involves being aware of our feelings, having empathy for others, and effectively using emotional information to guide our thoughts and actions.
Emotional intelligence is a valuable skill that can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships, professional success, and overall well-being. It can be developed and improved through self-reflection, practice, and a willingness to understand and connect with others on an emotional level.
How Does Empathy Affect Emotional Intelligence?
Empathy plays a crucial role in emotional intelligence. It allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others, which in turn helps them navigate social interactions and build meaningful relationships. By being empathetic, one can better recognize and respond to the emotions of others, leading to improved communication and conflict-resolution skills. Empathy also fosters a sense of compassion and understanding, which contributes to a more harmonious and empathetic society.
Here are three specific examples of how empathy affects emotional intelligence:
Improved Communication: When someone is empathetic, they actively listen and try to understand the emotions and perspectives of others. This allows them to communicate more effectively, as they can tailor their message to be more sensitive and considerate. By acknowledging and validating the emotions of others, empathetic individuals can create a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue.
Conflict Resolution: Empathy plays a vital role in resolving conflicts. By empathizing with the emotions and needs of all parties involved, individuals can find common ground and work towards a mutually beneficial solution. Empathy helps de-escalate tense situations, as it allows people to see beyond their own viewpoint and consider the feelings and perspectives of others involved.
Building Relationships: Empathy is a key ingredient in building strong and meaningful relationships. When someone is empathetic, they are more attuned to the emotions and needs of others, which helps foster trust and connection. By showing genuine care and understanding, empathetic individuals can create deeper bonds and establish a supportive network of relationships.
These are just a few examples of how empathy positively impacts emotional intelligence, leading to better communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills.
Reno Omokri has this to say on the significance of EQ over and above IQ (Intelligence Quotient).
“IQ will help you pass exams, but it is EQ that will make you pass in life. That is why those who come first at school, hardly come first in life. Because in life, academics do not affect social dynamics. EQ or Emotional Intelligence helps you get along with people. When you have a high EQ, you are less irritable, fun to be with, and more tolerant. And your personality always affects your upward mobility.”
“IQ is what you know, EQ is how you use what you know. IQ is like a car, EQ is like the driver. You can have a very expensive car, but if you don’t know how to drive it, it’s useless.”
“EQ is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It’s the ability to build and maintain relationships, and to resolve conflict peacefully. EQ is more important than IQ in the workplace and in life.”
Empathy and Personal Development
Scoring high on empathy not only makes us better individuals but also enhances our ability to relate to others. It empowers us to offer genuine support, lend a listening ear, and provide comfort during challenging times. By nurturing empathy within ourselves and our children, we lay the foundation for a more compassionate and understanding society.
Here are three specific examples of how empathy improves personal development:
Self-awareness: Empathy allows individuals to understand and connect with the emotions of others. By practicing empathy, individuals can also develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions and motivations. This self-awareness helps in personal development by enabling individuals to recognize their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. It allows them to reflect on their own actions and make positive changes to become more empathetic and compassionate individuals.
Emotional regulation: Empathy helps individuals develop better emotional regulation skills. When someone is empathetic, they are more attuned to the emotions of others and can recognize and understand their own emotions more effectively. This awareness and understanding of emotions enable individuals to regulate their own emotional responses in a healthier and more constructive manner. By practicing empathy, individuals can learn to manage stress, handle conflicts, and respond to challenging situations with greater emotional intelligence.
Perspective-taking: Empathy involves putting oneself in someone else’s shoes and seeing the world from their perspective. This ability to take different perspectives helps in personal development by broadening one’s understanding of the world and fostering a more open-minded and inclusive mindset. By practicing empathy, individuals can challenge their own biases and assumptions, develop a greater appreciation for diversity, and become more adaptable and flexible in their thinking.
These are just a few examples of how empathy improves personal development by enhancing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and perspective-taking skills. By cultivating empathy, individuals can grow personally and become more compassionate and understanding individuals.
The ‘Bright Triad’
The ‘Bright Triad’ is my coinage, taking a cue from the Dark Triad of narcissism (Narcissism, Marchiavellianism, Psychopathy) which I elaborated on in one of the 6-part series I wrote on narcissist and narcissistic relationships (https://salihulukman.com/part-5-narcissist-zuma-ga-zaqi-ga-harbi-marmari-daga-nesa/). The Bright Triad here includes empathy, emotional intelligence, and non-judgmental. These represent 3 bright attributes that one should strive to nurture and score high on each one of them, and they are closely interrelated.
Empathy is closely related to emotional intelligence and being non-judgmental. Emotional intelligence involves the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Empathy is a key component of emotional intelligence as it allows individuals to connect with and understand the emotions of others.
Being non-judgmental is an important aspect of empathy and emotional intelligence. When someone is non-judgmental, they suspend their personal biases and preconceived notions, allowing them to truly empathize with others without passing judgment. This open-mindedness and acceptance create a safe space for individuals to express their emotions freely, knowing that they will be understood and supported.
By practicing empathy and being non-judgmental, individuals can enhance their emotional intelligence. They become more attuned to the emotions of others, better equipped to manage their own emotions, and capable of fostering positive and supportive relationships. This combination of empathy, emotional intelligence, and non-judgmental attitude contributes to a more compassionate and understanding society.
Exploitation of Empathy
Regrettably, certain personality patterns, such as narcissists and psychopaths, may exploit empathetic individuals for their own gain. I have explored how these antagonistic personalities manipulate, exploit, and take advantage of empathetic traits and, shed light on the importance of setting healthy boundaries to protect yourself in my previous article titled, “The Dark Side of Niceness: How Narcissists Exploit and Manipulate”, available at:
I will explore how certain mental disorders, such as narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, autism spectrum disorder, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder, can impact empathy. By gaining insights into these conditions, we can foster empathy and compassion towards individuals who may struggle to express or understand emotions in conventional ways.
Some people think that narcissists don’t have empathy at all. Well, their type of empathy – like all their other traits – is complicated. Narcissistic empathy, also known as “pseudo-empathy,” refers to a distorted or superficial form of empathy often exhibited by individuals with narcissistic personality traits. While narcissists may appear empathetic on the surface, their empathy tends to be self-serving, and driven by their own needs for admiration, control, or personal gain. This is also called transactional empathy.
Narcissistic empathy is characterized by a lack of genuine understanding or concern for the emotions and experiences of others. Instead, narcissists may mimic empathy to manipulate or exploit others for their own benefit. In other words, narcissists weaponize empathy. They may use selective empathy to appear caring when it aligns with their self-interests, but their empathy is typically inconsistent and lacks depth.
It is important to note that not all individuals with narcissistic traits exhibit this form of empathy, and the degree of narcissism can vary. However, when narcissistic empathy is present, it can hinder genuine emotional connection and lead to manipulative or exploitative behaviors in relationships. For a better understanding of narcissism and narcissistic empathy, watch the YouTube videos of the world’s number 1 expert on narcissism, Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a former professor of clinical psychology, who releases a daily video on narcissism and narcissistic relationships on her YouTube channel called, Dr. Ramani.
For a deeper treatment of narcissistic traits, I have written a 6-part series on narcissists recently in the Hausa language titled, “Narcissist – Zuma Ga Zaqi Ga Harbi, Marmari Daga Nesa”, where I unboxed the ABCs of narcissists with clear examples and demonstrations. You can find the articles here:
Next, is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). A person with BPD has unstable empathy which changes like a roller-coaster. Sometimes, he will appear hyper-empathetic and at other times, he can show no empathy at all. Just like his unstable sense of self or self-image which keeps on changing from time to time, so does his empathy.
Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) often struggle with expressing or understanding empathy in conventional ways due to the unique challenges they face. BPD is a complex mental health condition characterized by intense emotional experiences, unstable relationships, and a distorted sense of self. Here are a few reasons why individuals with BPD may struggle with empathy:
Emotional Dysregulation: People with BPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, which can make it challenging for them to regulate their own emotions, let alone understand and respond to the emotions of others. This emotional dysregulation can hinder their ability to empathize in conventional ways.
Fear of Abandonment: Individuals with BPD commonly have a deep fear of abandonment, which can lead to difficulties in empathizing with others. Their fear and insecurity may cause them to be overly focused on their own emotional needs, making it challenging to fully understand or connect with the emotions of others.
Splitting and Idealization/Devaluation: BPD is associated with a pattern of splitting, where individuals may see others as either all good or all bad, i.e. purely white or black without any shades of grey in between. This black-and-white thinking can make it difficult to empathize with others, as they may struggle to see the nuances and complexities of different emotions or perspectives.
It is important to note that while individuals with BPD may struggle with empathy in conventional ways, it does not mean they are incapable of empathy altogether. With appropriate therapy and support, individuals with BPD can learn to develop and express empathy in more effective and healthy ways.
Individuals with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and bipolar disorder may face challenges in expressing or understanding empathy in conventional ways due to the following reasons:
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): People with OCPD tend to be overly focused on rules, morals, order, and perfectionism. They are also workaholics. This intense preoccupation with control, work, and rigid thinking patterns can make it difficult for them to empathize with others’ emotions or perspectives. Their attention is often directed toward their own concerns and maintaining a sense of control, which can hinder their ability to connect emotionally with others, especially in an intimate relationship.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Individuals with ASD often have difficulties with social communication and interaction. They may struggle to understand and interpret nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions or body language, which are important for empathetic understanding. These factors can make it harder for individuals with ASD to express or comprehend empathy in conventional ways.
Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, including periods of elevated or manic moods and depressive episodes. During manic episodes, individuals may experience heightened self-focus, irritability, and impulsivity, which can make it challenging for them to fully engage in empathetic responses. Conversely, during depressive episodes, individuals may struggle with their own emotional well-being, making it difficult to extend empathy toward others.
It is important to note that these are general observations, and each individual’s experience may vary. It is always best to consult with mental health professionals for a comprehensive understanding of how these conditions may impact empathy in specific cases.
Raising Empathetic Children
Parents play a crucial role in instilling empathy in their children. I will discuss various strategies and techniques to raise highly empathetic children, emphasizing the importance of modeling empathy, encouraging perspective-taking, and fostering emotional intelligence. By equipping our children with empathy, we empower them to navigate the complexities of relationships with kindness and understanding.
Here are some strategies and techniques to raise highly empathetic children, with an emphasis on modeling empathy, encouraging perspective-taking, and fostering emotional intelligence:
Model Empathy: Children learn by observing and imitating their caregivers. By consistently demonstrating empathy in your own interactions and relationships, you provide a powerful example for your child to follow. Show kindness, understanding, and compassion towards others, and explain your actions to help them understand the importance of empathy.
Encourage Perspective-Taking: Help children develop the ability to see things from another person’s point of view. Encourage them to consider how others might be feeling in different situations. Engage in conversations that explore different perspectives and encourage empathy by asking questions like, “How do you think they might be feeling?” or “What would you do if you were in their shoes?”
Teach Emotional Literacy: Help children identify and understand their own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Use age-appropriate language to label emotions and discuss their causes and effects. Encourage them to express their feelings and validate their experiences. This helps children develop emotional intelligence and empathy by recognizing and understanding emotions in themselves and others.
Practice Active Listening: Teach children the importance of active listening, which involves giving their full attention to others and showing genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to ask open-ended questions and reflect on what they’ve heard. This helps children develop empathy by truly understanding and connecting with others.
Promote Kindness and Compassion: Create opportunities for children to engage in acts of kindness and compassion. Encourage them to help others, volunteer, or engage in activities that promote empathy and understanding. Highlight the positive impact their actions can have on others, reinforcing the value of empathy in making a difference in the world.
Remember, raising empathetic children is an ongoing process that requires patience, consistency, and reinforcement. By modeling empathy, encouraging perspective-taking, and fostering emotional intelligence, you can help cultivate empathy as a core value in your child’s life.
Empathy in Interpersonal and Intimate Relationships
Empathy forms the bedrock of healthy relationships, be it between couples, colleagues, friends, teachers, or leaders. I will delve into how a lack of empathy can manifest in these relationships, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and emotional disconnection. By recognizing the importance of empathy, we can cultivate stronger bonds and create a more empathetic and supportive environment.
When there is a lack of empathy in relationships, it can lead to various challenges and negative outcomes. Here are some ways in which a lack of empathy can manifest in different types of relationships:
Couples: In a romantic relationship, a lack of empathy can result in misunderstandings and emotional disconnection. Without the ability to understand and validate each other’s emotions, partners may struggle to communicate effectively and meet each other’s needs. This can lead to conflicts, feelings of neglect, and a breakdown in intimacy.
Colleagues: In a professional setting, a lack of empathy among colleagues can create a hostile work environment. Without understanding and considering each other’s perspectives and emotions, conflicts may arise, teamwork may suffer, and collaboration may become challenging. This can negatively impact productivity, job satisfaction, and overall work atmosphere.
Friends: Lack of empathy among friends can strain relationships and lead to emotional disconnection. Without the ability to empathize, friends may struggle to provide support and understanding during difficult times. This can result in feelings of isolation, resentment, and a gradual breakdown of the friendship.
Teachers: A lack of empathy in teachers can hinder effective communication and understanding with students. Without empathetic guidance and support, students may feel misunderstood, unimportant, or unsupported. This can impact their motivation, engagement, and overall learning experience.
Leaders: Leaders who lack empathy may struggle to connect with their team members and understand their needs and concerns. This can lead to a lack of trust, reduced morale, and decreased productivity. Empathy is crucial for effective leadership, as it helps leaders make informed decisions, inspire their team, and create a positive work environment.
In all these relationships, a lack of empathy can contribute to misunderstandings, conflicts, and emotional disconnection. Empathy is essential for fostering understanding, building trust, and maintaining healthy relationships.
Conclusion
Empathy is a transformative trait that holds immense power in shaping our personal growth and relationships. By embracing empathy, we enhance our emotional intelligence, foster compassion, and create a more understanding world. Let us embark on this journey together, as we strive to nurture empathy within ourselves, our children, and our communities, ultimately making the world a better place for all. Remember, the best thing we can instill in our children is empathy. This will help us to nib narcissism in the bud, thereby making the world a better place to live.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia.
The Dark Side of Niceness: How Narcissists Exploit and Manipulate
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Introduction
In a world where kindness and compassion are widely regarded as virtues, it’s unfortunate that some individuals exploit these traits for their own gain. Narcissists, with their manipulative tendencies, are masterful at using the seemingly harmless trait of niceness to exploit and manipulate those around them. In this article, I delve into the dark side of niceness and shed light on how narcissists leverage it to perpetrate untold hardship on unsuspecting kind souls.
How Narcissists Exploit Niceness
I have written a 6-part series on narcissists recently in the Hausa language titled, “Narcissist – Zuma Ga Zaqi Ga Harbi, Marmari Daga Nesa”, where I unboxed the ABCs of narcissists with clear examples and demonstrations. You can find the articles here:
To clearly understand who narcissists are and how they affect your life negatively, you need to read the detailed 6-part series. Find below, a summary of ways that narcissists and antagonistic persons can exploit one’s niceness.
The Charismatic Mask: Narcissists possess an uncanny ability to put on a charismatic mask, making themselves appear likeable, charming, and trustworthy. They easily win over the hearts of genuine, nice individuals who are drawn to their seemingly genuine intentions. By presenting themselves as kind and approachable, narcissists create the perfect facade to exploit the goodwill of others.
Emotional Manipulation: Nice people often have a natural inclination to be empathetic, always striving to understand and support others. Narcissists exploit this empathy by manipulating emotions. They use guilt, flattery, and emotional manipulation to assert control and influence over their victims. By preying on the trusting nature of nice individuals, narcissists slowly gain power and dominance over them.
Building Dependency: Narcissists are skilled at identifying individuals who are prone to putting others’ needs before their own. They capitalize on this by subtly encouraging dependency. By selectively offering just enough support and validation, they make nice individuals reliant on their approval and validation, gradually eroding their self-confidence and personal boundaries.
Gaslighting and Distortion: One of the most insidious tactics that narcissists employ is gaslighting. They manipulate the perception of reality, making their victims doubt their own experiences and emotions. Nice individuals, with their trusting nature, are particularly susceptible to this form of manipulation. By distorting the truth and sowing seeds of doubt, narcissists gain control over their victims and perpetuate their own agenda.
Exploiting Empathy: Nice people often possess a deep well of empathy, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer support. Narcissists exploit this empathy by turning the tables, making themselves the victims in need of constant attention and care. They take advantage of the kindness and compassion of nice individuals, leaving them emotionally drained and neglected in the process.
The popular social media influencer, Reno Omokri, has made several important posts on his social media handles regarding this subject matter. I intend to reproduce some of these posts in quotes and comment on them, including the viral comment by Vice President Kashim Shettima on former Vice President Osinbajo.
“What is the benefit of being NICE? NICENESS is NOT a VIRTUE. It is a WEAKNESS. God does NOT reward NICENESS. NICENESS just means you are INOFFENSIVE, ANODYNE and easy to TAKE ADVANTAGE of. Be KIND. Be LOVING. Be HONEST. Be PATIENT. But dont be NICE” – Reno Omokri
While I understand that there are individuals who exploit niceness for their own gain, it is important to approach this topic with nuance and balance. Niceness, when practiced in a healthy and assertive manner, can be a virtue that promotes kindness, empathy, and positive interactions. It is essential to differentiate between being nice and being a pushover.
Being nice does not equate to being weak or lacking virtue. It involves showing genuine compassion, respect, and consideration for others without compromising one’s own boundaries. Kindness, love, honesty, and patience are all valuable qualities that contribute to building meaningful relationships and fostering a harmonious society.
Yes, there are instances where being overly nice can make one more susceptible to manipulation, especially by individuals with exploitative intentions. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between kindness and assertiveness. Setting healthy boundaries and being aware of red flags can help protect against those who seek to take advantage.
Rather than dismissing niceness, we should encourage individuals to develop emotional intelligence, assertiveness, and the ability to navigate complex social dynamics. It is possible to be both kind and assertive, and by doing so, we can maintain our integrity while still exhibiting compassion and empathy.
Ultimately, it is essential to remember that being nice is a personal choice, and its value should not be undermined by the actions of those who misuse it. Let us strive to create a world where kindness is celebrated, and individuals are empowered to be both kind and strong.
“Stop being nice. Niceness is a waste of time because people will respond to you out of their nature and not because of your niceness. A snake bites. That is its nature. No matter how nice you are to a snake, it will still bite you. A goat eats your yam. No matter how nice you are to it, it will steal eat your yam. So, treat everyone with courtesy and respect. But don’t displease yourself to please others. There is no profit in it. Those who will still dislike you will dislike you no matter how nice you are to them. There are nine fruit of the Spirit listed in Scripture and niceness is not one of them. Instead of being nice, relax and be yourself.” Reno Omokri
It is crucial to maintain self-respect and set clear boundaries, even when being kind and courteous. Being kind does not mean disempowering oneself or going against one’s own values and well-being. By establishing boundaries and communicating assertively, we can maintain our integrity while still treating others with respect.
Rather than completely dismissing niceness, it is more beneficial to encourage individuals to find a balance between being true to themselves and treating others with kindness and respect. By being authentic and compassionate, we can foster connections and contribute to a more positive and inclusive world.
“There is a big difference between KINDNESS and NICENESS. KINDNESS is strategic and deliberate. It involves CHARITY to those with NECESSITY that they can’t meet by themselves. NICENESS is emotional. It involves CHARITY without CLARITY or PURPOSE” Reno omokri
Kindness, as described, involves strategic and deliberate acts of charity towards those in need. It encompasses empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others improve their circumstances. Kindness, when practiced with intention and purpose, can bring about meaningful change and make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
On the other hand, niceness, as described, appears to emphasize a more emotional aspect of charity without clarity or purpose. While it is true that niceness alone may not always lead to tangible solutions or lasting impact, it can still contribute to fostering positive interactions and creating a sense of goodwill among people.
In reality, kindness and niceness are not mutually exclusive. Both can complement each other and be practiced in different contexts. Kindness can be strategic, deliberate, and rooted in empathy, while niceness can contribute to maintaining harmonious relationships and showing basic respect and courtesy to others.
Rather than pitting kindness against niceness, it is more beneficial to recognize that both have their place in human interactions. By combining strategic kindness with genuine niceness, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world where individuals support each other and foster positive change.
“I am not heartless because I refuse to give or lend you money (which you will never repay) for your emergency. Your failure to plan or prioritise is not my emergency. You can’t be using luxuries and begging for necessities. I never claimed to be nice. I am wise—big difference! My generosity is strategic, not erratic. I give where there is need, not where there is greed.” Reno Omokri
It is true that enabling irresponsible behavior can lead to a cycle of dependence and hinder personal growth. However, it is equally important to recognize that circumstances vary, and some emergencies may genuinely require assistance. Balancing wisdom and compassion allows us to make informed decisions while still being considerate of others’ struggles.
Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide how they want to allocate their resources. However, it is worth considering how we can use our wisdom and generosity in a way that uplifts and supports others, promoting growth and resilience rather than perpetuating dependence or greed.
“Stop wasting words on people who deserve your silence. The beauty of silence is that it cannot be misquoted, yet it says so much. For instance, if someone insults you and you respond, they can twist your response. But stay silent, and it is they who will be twisted” Reno omokri
While it is true that choosing silence can sometimes be a powerful tool, especially when dealing with a narcissist or antagonistic persons, in certain situations, it is important to approach communication with thoughtfulness and consider the context.
Silence can indeed protect one from being misquoted or having their words twisted. It allows for reflection and can prevent unnecessary escalation of conflicts. There are instances where responding to insults or provocations may only fuel further negativity.
However, it is also important to recognize that silence may not always be the most effective response. In some cases, speaking up and addressing concerns directly can lead to resolution, understanding, and growth.
Each situation is unique, and it is essential to assess whether silence is the most appropriate response based on the circumstances and one’s own values. Sometimes silence can be empowering, allowing one to maintain their dignity and not engage in unnecessary conflicts. However, there are also instances where speaking up can convey important messages, assert boundaries, or foster productive dialogue.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal judgment and understanding when to embrace the power of silence and when to use our words to make a positive impact. Striking the right balance between silence and communication is key to effective and meaningful interactions.
“Osinbajo is a good man; he’s a nice man. But nice men do not make good leaders, because nice men tend to be nasty. Nice men should be selling popcorn, ice cream.” Vice President Kashim Shettima.
While I understand that the statement suggests that being “nice” may not be sufficient for effective leadership, it is important to consider that leadership qualities encompass a wide range of attributes beyond just being “nice” or “nasty.”
Leadership effectiveness relies on a variety of qualities such as integrity, decisiveness, vision, empathy, and the ability to make tough decisions when necessary. While being “nice” alone may not guarantee effective leadership, it does not automatically imply that nice individuals are incapable of being good leaders.
Leaders can exhibit kindness, compassion, and empathy while still displaying the necessary assertiveness and strength to make difficult decisions for the greater good. Being nice does not equate to being weak or lacking the qualities needed to lead effectively.
Ultimately, leadership success depends on a combination of various characteristics, skills, and experiences. It is crucial to evaluate leaders based on their overall abilities, their approach to decision-making, and their track record, rather than solely on the perception of being “nice” or “nasty.”
So, it is important to look beyond just the label of “nice” when assessing someone’s leadership capabilities and consider a broader range of qualities and competencies that contribute to effective leadership.
Conclusion
While niceness is generally viewed as a positive trait, it’s crucial to recognize how narcissists exploit and manipulate these virtues for their own gain. By understanding their tactics, we can better protect ourselves and those around us. Let us remain cautious, but not let the actions of a few tarnish the beauty of kindness. Kindness should always be celebrated, but it’s equally important to be aware of those who would exploit it.
Lastly, do not allow anybody to take your niceness and empathy for granted. Do not subsidize irresponsibility under any circumstances. Be as pragmatic as possible.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia.
Is God a Mathematician? Unveiling the Divine Patterns in Nature
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
Highlights:
The Mathematical Tapestry of Nature
Physicists as Unravelers of the Mathematical Universe
The Power of Prediction and Modeling
Studying Science
The Importance of Scientific Literacy
Most Profound and Impactful Mathematical Principles of Nature
Introduction
In the pursuit of understanding the mysteries of the universe, humanity has often contemplated the connection between God, mathematics, and the natural world. As we delve into the depths of scientific exploration, we discover that the elegance, precision, and exactness of mathematics are intricately woven into the very fabric of nature. From the graceful dance of celestial bodies to the orchestrated symphony of natural processes, mathematics emerges as a universal language, revealing profound insights into the mysteries of creation.
The Mathematical Tapestry of Nature
Nature’s affinity for mathematics becomes evident when we observe the intricate patterns that govern it. From the spiraling patterns of seashells to the fractal structures of fern leaves, mathematical concepts such as Fibonacci sequences and fractals manifest everywhere. These patterns not only showcase the aesthetic beauty of nature but also reveal the underlying mathematical principles that govern its behavior.
Here are a few examples of the mathematical tapestry woven into the natural world and the cosmos:
Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion: Johannes Kepler, a renowned astronomer, formulated three laws of planetary motion based on observations and mathematical analysis. These laws describe the elliptical paths of planets around the sun, the equal-area rule (planets sweep out equal areas at equal times), and the mathematical relationship between a planet’s orbital period and its average distance from the sun.
Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation: Sir Isaac Newton’s law of universal gravitation mathematically describes the force of attraction between two objects based on their masses and the distance between them. This law helps us understand the gravitational interactions between celestial bodies, such as planets, moons, and stars.
Einstein’s Field Equations: Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity provides a mathematical framework for understanding gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy. His field equations describe the relationship between the distribution of matter and the geometry of spacetime, offering insights into the behavior of massive objects and the bending of light.
The Fibonacci Sequence in Nature: The Fibonacci sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, etc.) and its related Golden Ratio have fascinating connections to nature. They can be observed in the spiral patterns of seashells, the branching of trees, the arrangement of leaves on a stem, and even in the proportions of the human body. These mathematical patterns exhibit a remarkable aesthetic beauty found throughout the natural world.
Fractals in Nature: Fractals are intricate mathematical patterns that exhibit self-similarity at different scales. They can be found in various natural phenomena, such as the branching patterns of trees, the intricate shapes of coastlines, the structure of clouds, and even in the cosmic web of galaxy clusters. Fractals highlight the inherent mathematical complexity and intricacy present in the natural world.
These examples illustrate how mathematics unveils the underlying order and patterns in the cosmos, enabling us to describe and understand the behavior of celestial bodies, the growth of natural forms, and the fundamental forces shaping the universe. The mathematical tapestry of the cosmos reflects a profound interconnectedness between mathematics and the natural world.
Physicists as Unravelers of the Mathematical Universe
Physicists, relentless in their pursuit of knowledge, have played a pivotal role in uncovering the mathematical underpinnings of the natural world. Through rigorous experimentation and mathematical modeling, they have revealed profound equations that describe the fundamental laws of nature. From Isaac Newton’s laws of motion to Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity, these mathematical frameworks provide us with a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of the cosmos.
The Power of Prediction and Modeling
One of the most remarkable applications of the mathematics of nature lies in its ability to make reliable predictions. Engineers and scientists utilize mathematical models to forecast natural disasters, predict weather patterns, and comprehend the behavior of complex systems. By harnessing the power of mathematics, we gain valuable insights that aid in disaster preparedness, resource management, and mitigation strategies, ultimately saving lives and minimizing the impact of natural calamities.
Studying Science
A Pathway to Appreciating God’s Wonders: The exploration of the mathematical tapestry of nature not only enriches our scientific knowledge but also deepens our appreciation for the wonders of creation. As we unlock the secrets of the universe, we are granted glimpses into the divine intelligence behind it all. Science becomes a means to marvel at the precision and orderliness that permeates every aspect of existence.
The Importance of Scientific Literacy
In an age dominated by technology and scientific advancements, understanding science is more important than ever. Scientific literacy empowers us to critically analyze information, make informed decisions, and contribute positively to society. By studying and comprehending the mathematics embedded in nature, we gain a profound appreciation for God’s creative genius, fostering a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.
I am not saying that everybody must have a science background or must study a science or applied science course. However, possessing a fair understanding of some basic scientific concepts and principles cannot be over-emphasized. For someone without a science background, understanding the basic scientific concepts and principles can provide a foundation for comprehending the processes of nature and the universe. Here are some fundamental scientific concepts that can help:
Scientific Method: The scientific method is a systematic approach used by scientists to investigate and understand the natural world. It involves making observations, formulating hypotheses, designing experiments or gathering data, analyzing the results, and drawing conclusions. Understanding the scientific method allows for critical thinking and evaluating scientific claims.
Laws and Theories: In science, laws and theories are different. A scientific law describes a phenomenon or relationship observed in nature, expressed as a mathematical equation or principle (e.g., Newton’s Laws of Motion). A scientific theory, on the other hand, is a well-substantiated explanation of a natural phenomenon, supported by substantial evidence and capable of making accurate predictions (e.g., Theory of Evolution or Theory of General Relativity).
Matter and Energy: Matter refers to anything that occupies space and has mass. It exists in various states (solid, liquid, gas) and is composed of atoms and molecules. Energy, on the other hand, is the ability to do work or bring about change. Understanding the concepts of matter and energy helps in comprehending the behavior and interactions of objects and systems.
Forces and Motion: Forces are pushes or pulls that can cause objects to accelerate, decelerate, or change direction. Newton’s Laws of Motion describe the relationship between forces, mass, and motion. Understanding these principles helps explain phenomena such as gravity, planetary motion, and the behavior of objects in everyday life.
Cells and DNA: Cells are the basic building blocks of life. They make up all living organisms and have various structures and functions. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the genetic material found within cells that carries the instructions for an organism’s development and functioning. Familiarity with these concepts aids in understanding life processes, genetics, and the diversity of living organisms.
Ecosystems and the Environment: Ecosystems are communities of living organisms interacting with their physical and chemical environments. Understanding the interconnectedness of organisms and their environment helps comprehend topics such as biodiversity, ecological relationships, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.
Earth Systems: Earth is a complex system comprising various interconnected components, such as the geosphere (land), hydrosphere (water), atmosphere (air), and biosphere (living organisms). Understanding Earth’s systems helps grasp phenomena like weather patterns, climate change, and natural resources.
By familiarizing yourself with these basic scientific concepts, you can develop a better understanding of the natural world and the processes that shape it. They provide a foundation for further exploration and appreciation of scientific knowledge.
Most Profound and Impactful Mathematical Principles of Nature
The world as we know it today has been shaped by numerous profound and impactful mathematical principles and theories inherent in nature. The exploration of the cosmos has led to the development of several profound and established theories that have significantly shaped our understanding of the universe. Here are a few notable examples:
Calculus: The development of calculus, pioneered by Sir Isaac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, revolutionized our understanding of change and motion. Calculus has been instrumental in fields such as physics, engineering, economics, and computer science. Its applications range from modeling the trajectory of celestial bodies to designing efficient transportation systems.
Probability Theory: Probability theory, developed by mathematicians like Pierre-Simon Laplace and Andrei Kolmogorov, has had a profound impact on fields such as statistics, finance, and risk assessment. It enables us to understand uncertainty, make informed decisions, and calculate the likelihood of events occurring. Probability theory plays a crucial role in fields like insurance, weather forecasting, and epidemiology.
Number Theory: Number theory, the study of integers and their properties, has both practical and theoretical implications. It forms the foundation for modern cryptography, which secures our digital communications and transactions. Number theory also plays a key role in coding theory, which ensures reliable data transmission and storage.
Chaos Theory: Chaos theory, pioneered by mathematicians such as Edward Lorenz, studies the behavior of dynamic systems that are highly sensitive to initial conditions. It has revolutionized our understanding of complex systems, including weather patterns, population dynamics, and the stock market. Chaos theory has highlighted the importance of seemingly insignificant factors in shaping outcomes and has influenced fields like meteorology, economics, and biology.
Fractal Geometry: Fractal geometry, introduced by mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot, explores complex and self-repeating geometric patterns. Fractals can be found in natural phenomena such as coastlines, clouds, and snowflakes. The applications of fractal geometry range from computer graphics and digital imaging to understanding the structure of galaxies and modeling the growth of biological systems.
Big Bang Theory: Proposed by Georges Lemaître, a Belgian cosmologist and Catholic priest. The Big Bang Theory is the prevailing cosmological model that explains the origin and evolution of the universe. It posits that the universe began as an incredibly hot and dense singularity around 13.8 billion years ago and has been expanding ever since. The Big Bang Theory has revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos, providing crucial insights into the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets.
Theory of General Relativity: Proposed by Albert Einstein, the Theory of General Relativity revolutionized our understanding of gravity. It describes gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects. General Relativity has been crucial in explaining the structure and behavior of celestial bodies, from the motion of planets to the bending of light around massive objects.
Quantum Mechanics: Quantum Mechanics is a fundamental theory that describes the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. It has transformed our understanding of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. Quantum Mechanics has practical applications in fields such as electronics, telecommunications, and computing, leading to advancements like transistors, lasers, and quantum computing. Quantum Mechanics was developed by several scientists, including Max Planck, who introduced the concept of quantization of energy in 1900. Other key contributors include Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, Werner Heisenberg, Erwin Schrödinger, and Paul Dirac, among others.
Cosmic Inflation Theory: Proposed by physicist Alan Guth in 1980. Cosmic Inflation Theory proposes that the universe underwent an exponential expansion in its early stages, shortly after the Big Bang. This theory helps explain the uniformity of the cosmic microwave background radiation and the large-scale distribution of galaxies. Cosmic Inflation Theory has had a significant impact on our understanding of the early universe and sets the stage for subsequent structure formation.
Dark Matter and Dark Energy: The existence of dark matter and dark energy, though not fully understood, has shaped our understanding of the universe. Dark matter is a hypothetical form of matter that does not interact with light but exerts gravitational influence, explaining the observed discrepancies in the motion of galaxies. Dark energy, on the other hand, is an unknown form of energy that is believed to be responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe. The concept of dark matter was first proposed by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky in the 1930s, while dark energy was proposed in the late 1990s when observations indicated that the expansion of the universe was accelerating. Dark matter and dark energy are fascinating concepts that continue to baffle scientists. Let me break it down for you. Dark matter is estimated to make up about 27% of the universe’s mass and energy. It is an invisible and mysterious form of matter that does not interact with light or other electromagnetic radiation. Instead, it exerts gravitational forces, helping to explain the movement of galaxies and the formation of structures in the universe. Despite its significant presence, scientists have yet to directly detect or fully understand what dark matter is composed of. Dark energy, on the other hand, is an even more perplexing phenomenon. It is believed to constitute about 68% of the universe’s energy density. Dark energy is associated with the acceleration of the expansion of the universe. Rather than being a substance or matter, it is thought to be a property of space itself. The exact nature of dark energy remains elusive, and scientists are actively researching and formulating theories to better comprehend its origins and behavior. The primary reason why dark matter and dark energy are still not fully understood is their elusive and intangible nature. They do not interact with ordinary matter and energy in ways that we can easily detect or observe. Scientists rely on indirect observations, mathematical models, and experiments to study and infer their existence. Ongoing efforts in particle physics, cosmology, and astrophysics aim to shed more light on these mysteries and unravel their secrets. It means that we only have some understanding of a mere 5 % of total matter and energy in the universe, while the remaining 95 % is still not fully understood.
These principles and theories represent just a fraction of the mathematical concepts that have shaped our world. Mathematics has been instrumental in advancing scientific knowledge, engineering innovations, and technological breakthroughs. By uncovering the mathematical principles embedded in nature, we have gained a deeper understanding of the universe and harnessed its potential for the betterment of society. The cosmic theories have transformed our understanding of the universe, influenced technological advancements, and inspired further exploration and scientific inquiry. They have paved the way for groundbreaking discoveries and continue to shape our world by providing a framework for understanding the cosmos and our place within it.
Conclusion
As we ponder the question, “Is God a mathematician?” we uncover a mesmerizing tapestry of mathematical intricacies woven throughout the cosmos and natural processes. Physicists, engineers, and scientists tirelessly work to unravel these mathematical mysteries, providing us with insights that enable us to predict and understand the world around us. By embracing scientific literacy and marveling at the mathematical wonders of nature, we embark on a journey of discovery that deepens our understanding of the universe and enhances our appreciation for the divine intelligence behind it all.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
Part (2): Pastor Reno Omokri – A Bridge Builder Between Muslims & Christians
By: Dr. Salihu Lukman
My interest in understanding the true teachings of Jesus Christ according to the Bible was ignited in 1999 when I was a 100-level student at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Every Sunday, Christian preachers would visit us and preach to us about Christianity in our rooms at the Dan Fodo Hall. Three years later in 2001, I enrolled in a Bible study course (22 years ago) where I obtained a certificate in Comparative Religious Studies. Hence, there is almost nothing new to me about all the corrections to the Christian practices and beliefs that Omokri advocates here.
On how a Biblical verse was changed from its original form to insert the concept of Trinity, Omokri has this to say.
“What Is The Origin of The Trinity?
A young man named Leke was so indignant at me for saying that the doctrine of the Trinity is satanic, and he asked me why I don’t believe in something that is in Scripture.
Sadly, many do not even know what Scripture is.
The Bible is NOT Scripture. And when Paul wrote about Scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16, he was not referring to the New Testament. He was referring to the Torah.
It may surprise you to note that neither The Bible nor much of the New Testament was written when Paul was alive.
Other than the Gospel according to Luke, the only Gospel book whose human author we suspect we know is the Book of Mark. The present Book of Mark is not the original Book of Mark. Please don’t believe me. Assume that the devil is lying to you and research it yourself.
The oldest manuscripts of the Book of Mark end in Mark 16:8. Everything after Mark 16, verse 8, is of unsure origin.
Mark is believed to be written by John Mark, but in truth, nobody knows for certainty.
As for the Gospel according to John, the author is anonymous. It is believed, by faith, to be written by the apostle John. But nobody knows who actually wrote it.
I have been to the John Rylands University Library in Manchester to read the oldest surging fragment of the Gospel according to John (that is what I am doing in the attached photo), which is written in Greek.
But the reason many scholars believe John did not write the book that hears his name is because of John 21:24:
“This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. WE know that his testimony is true.”
The use of the term ‘we’ makes it more likely that John’s followers wrote the Gospel according to John.
As for the Gospel according to Matthew, it is attributed to the disciple, Matthew. But this attribution is done by faith. We simply do not know who wrote it. Especially as it was written in Greek,
The Gospel according to Luke, is based on the earlier Gospel according to Mark. Luke was not among the thence disciples and was likely a Greek speaking person based on the quality of his work.
The Trinity has not always existed. For the first 300 years of Christianity, there was nothing like the Trinity. The word does not exist in the Holy Scriptures. It was introduced during the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
According to the official creeds of the Catholic, Anglican and the World Evangelical Alliance, the Trinity is a doctrine that projects one God in three Divine Persons, in which the three Persons are co-equal and, co-eternal and omniscient.
Is there co-equality between God, His Son and the Holy Spirit? In John 14:28, The Son said, “My Father is greater than I.” Obviously, that verse contradicts the first leg of the Trinity.
Almighty God is omniscient. He knows all things. But is His Son omniscient? In Matthew 24:36, The Son said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, NOR THE SON, but only the Father.”
It is clear from the above Scripture that only The Father is omniscient.
So, where does the biblical authority for the Trinity come from? It comes from 1 John 5:7 in the King James Version. That verse says:
“There are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”
Now, here is the problem. When you read the original Greek manuscript, that verse does not exist. This is not even an argument or controversy. It is a FACT.
I will now quote it in the NIV, NLT, ESV and the Aramaic Bible in Plain English:
“There are three that testify”-NIV
“We have these three witnesses”-NLT
“There are three that testify”-ESV
“The Spirit testifies because The Spirit is the truth.”-Aramaic Bible in Plain English.
So where does the KJV get the part that justifies the Trinity? From men, not from God. Why did they do it? I do not know. But I know that most if not all, the scholars who translated the Holy Scriptures into the KJV were high level Masons.”
A Muslim drew his attention that if he conducts thorough research on Islam, he will ultimately accept it. He responded as follows.
“Dear @Ishaqor,
Thank you for your feedback. Perhaps you are not aware, but I have read al-Quran. And my wife speaks flawless Arabic. I respect prophet Muhammad, Salla Allahu Alayhi Wasalaam. But the reason I follow Yeshua Hamashiach (Jesus Christ) rather than Nabi Muhammad (SAW) is because when asked where He was taking His followers, Yeshua told them clearly that if we believe in Him, we shall have everlasting life with Him in His Father’s Kingdom. And I believe Him.
However, I am not sure that the holy prophet Muhammad (SAW) told his followers, with certainty, what would happen to both him and them in the afterlife. However, if this is not true, then I apologise. But I am reasonably certain that it is.
Let me make this clear, because it seems some people are conflating issues.
My quarrel is with those who have distorted the pure message of Isa al-Masīḥ, whom God sent to reconcile man to Himself. My conflict is not with al-Masīḥ (Jesus Christ). I believe in Him as the only Way to God. I trust Him fully. I preach Him globally. But I don’t believe in Him as God Himself because He never claimed to be, and that is an adulteration of His message. And I am very content to live and die this way.
Omokri is definitely wrong in the above post when he claimed that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) did not tell his followers with certainty about what would happen to him and them in the afterlife.
On the rewards of the afterlife for those who believed in Allah, His prophets, and do good deeds, Allah says.
” As for those who believe and do good, We will admit them into Gardens (Paradise) under which rivers flow, to stay there for ever and ever. There they will have pure spouses, and We will place them under a vast shade.” Qur’an 4:57.
” Give good news ˹O Prophet˺ to those who believe and do good that they will have Gardens (Paradise) under which rivers flow. Whenever provided with fruit, they will say, “This is what we were given before,” for they will be served fruit that looks similar ˹but tastes different˺. They will have pure spouses, and they will be there forever.” Qur’an 2:25
These are just a few of the many Quranic verses that support the Prophet’s (SAW) teachings about what will be the rewards of the believers in the afterlife. Hence, it is wrong to say that Muhammad (SAW) did not tell his followers with certainty what would happen to him and them in the afterlife.
In addition, the following Hadiths also buttress the Qur’anic verses above, the Prophet (SAW) said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and His Messenger, and establishes prayer, and pays the zakat, he will have his two gardens (Paradise).” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
“Whoever dies upon the testimony that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger, and that Jesus is the servant and Messenger of Allah, and that he was created by His Word and His spirit, he will enter Paradise, whatever his actions may have been.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
The Prophet (SAW) also told his followers that he would be interceding for them on the Day of Judgment. He said:
“I will be the first intercessor on the Day of Judgment.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
The Prophet’s (SAW) teachings about the afterlife are a source of comfort and hope for Muslims. They believe that if they follow the Prophet’s (SAW) teachings, they will be rewarded with Paradise in the afterlife.
While responding to a question on whether the Kaduna church, ‘Our Lady of Fatima’, is named after Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) daughter Fatima, he has this to say.
“Dear King Aliy,
Thank you for your feedback. Actually, the church is not named after Fatima Bint Muhammad, the daughter of prophet Muhammad (SAW). Rather, it is named after the town of Fatima in Portugal, where an apparition, which claimed to be Mary (Maryam), the mother of our Lord and Saviour, appeared to the townspeople in 1917.
I went to Fatima to investigate the visitation, and while I cannot say who the being that appeared really is, I can say that the apparition did happen. It was not a hoax.
A lot of Muslims get confused that a town would be called Fatima in a very Roman Catholic country, like Portugal. The reason is that In the 8th century, Muslim Moorish people from North Africa conquered much of what is now Portugal and Spain and called their new territories al-Andalus. Today, the place is known as Andalusia.
Millions of White Europeans were taken and sold as enslaved people by the Moors. And the Moors ruled that part of Europe for 800 years.
When European Christians eventually regained control, they used such measures, like the Spanish Inquisition, to wipe out Islam and Judaism from that part of the world. Many of the Moorish people fled to North Africa, and much of the Jews fled to the Ottoman Empire.
Towns like Fatima in Portugal, Zaragoza in Spain, and Gibraltar (now a British dominion within Spain) are relics of the Moorish era.
Also, and especially amongst Shia, some Muslims invoke the Holy Mother. When Roman Catholics see this, they mistakenly assume they are praying to Mary. But they are not. They are asking the prophet’s daughter, Ruqayya bint Muhammad, to intercede for them.
Omokri might have mistakenly written Ruqayya instead of Fatima in the second to the last paragraph above. On invoking other people apart from Allah by some of the Islamic sects, some adherents of Shi’a and Sufism (Tariqa) venerate their Imams and so-called saints (Waliyyai) to the level of divinity. It is not uncommon to find a Shi’ite invoking Imam Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) or a Sufi invoking his Sufi masters such as Nyass (Gausi), Tijjani, or Abdulqadir Jilani for protection, guidance, or help in dealing with a difficult situation that only the Almighty Allah can intervene.
The authentic Islamic position on invoking anyone apart from Allah is that it is shirk, or polytheism. This is because shirk is the sin of associating partners with Allah. Invoking anyone other than Allah for help, intercession, or blessings is a form of shirk.
The Quran is unequivocal on this subject and contains many verses that prohibit shirk, including:
قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ ١
ٱللَّهُ ٱلصَّمَدُ ٢
لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ ٣
وَلَمْ يَكُن لَّهُۥ كُفُوًا أَحَدٌۢ ٤
“Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “He is Allah—One ˹and Indivisible˺. Allah—the Sustainer ˹needed by all˺. He has never had offspring, nor was He born. And there is none comparable to Him.” Qur’an 112: 1 – 4.
“And do not invoke, instead of Allah, what can neither benefit nor harm you—for if you do, then you will certainly be one of the wrongdoers.” Qur’an 10:106’
On Jesus Christ sent by the Almighty God as a prophet not as God incarnate, i.e., debunking the famous divinity of Jesus Christ, Omokri has this to say.
“When those who have been brainwashed by European paganism passing off itself as Christianity, are given Scriptural proof that contradicts their church doctrine, they begin to go spiritual, and claim they have a Rhema (spiritual insight that is esoteric and not available to the unbelieving). But read 2 Peter 1:20:
“No prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”
A Rhema that tells you something contrary to Scripture is suspicious, even if it agrees with your church doctrine.
I have read Scripture in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. I have read Scripture in multiple English translations. There is nothing like Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Protestant, Calvinism, and so on in Scripture. There is only the Ekklesia (the gathering of believers).
There is scarcely a place mentioned in Scripture that I have not physically visited, not because I have money or want to boast, but because of genuine love for God. That is my only motive. I am looking for what God’s Word says and that is why I have gone as far as Ethiopia, Manchester (John Rylands University Library), Israel, Rome, and Egypt, in search of the original Scriptures.
Therefore, it is unwise to allow church doctrine to shift you away from what Scripture says. You respect men too much. If anybody brings you any doctrine, no matter how eloquent and philosophical, that does not emanate from Scripture, INCLUDING ME, donate to that person a very hot slap and go your way. Let them carry their Trinity, purgatory, Christmas, Easter, forbidding men to marry, and so on, and keep it in their Europe, where their own people are rejecting these lies in record numbers.
What Yeshua (Jesus) taught is very simple. It is men who want to make it complicated. Yeshua was a Jewish Rabbi who taught as follows.
I am not God, and only God is good-Mark 10:18.
God sent Me-John 3:16.
If it were left to Me, I would not have allowed men to kill Me. I did it to obey God. It was not My desire. It was His-Matthew 26:39.
I am the Way to God. But I am not Myself God-John 14:6.
I sit on the right Hand of God-Mark 14:62.
On My Own, I can do nothing except what God tells Me-John 5:30.
Just as you pray to God, so do I also pray to God-Matthew 27:46.
I am not equal to God-John 14:28.
I know a lot, but I don’t know everything like God-Matthew 24:36.
The popular way is DEFINITELY the wrong way-Matthew 7:13.
Even in heaven, I am still subject to God-1 Corinthians 15:28.
Oya, start to insult me. Am I the first person you will insult? What did my Master say?
“It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul (satan), how much more the members of his household!”-Matthew 10:25.
#TableShaker”
On the legality of polygamy in Christianity, he has this to say.
“Dear @OlobeOfLagos1,
Thank you for your question. The views I will give here are my own opinions and not something that the Holy Spirit told me. It is also not the standard view in Pentecostal, Evangelical or mainstream Protestant Christendom, and Roman Catholicism. These are purely and simply personal opinions based on my intellectual study of Scripture and spiritual insights.
I am legally married to only one wife. I have never been married to two women simultaneously, and have never committed adultery with another woman while married.
However, I do not condemn polygamy. For the following reasons:
1.God Himself gave David multiple wives. As we can see from the following verse of Scripture:
“I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more.”-2 Samuel 12:18.
1.Abraham, Jacob, David, and many other patriarchs and pastors were polygamous.
1.I am not sure that one woman can satisfy the sexual libido of one man for a lifetime, especially given that biologically, women experience menopause in their forties, which comes with decreased libido. In contrast, biologically, men can maintain their libido into their eighties. What is a married man to do in such circumstances?
1.Scripture prescribes monogamy and even total abstinence for only Bishops. We see this in the following verses:
“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;”-1 Timothy 3:2.
“It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am.”-1 Corinthians 7:8.
Having said the above, it would seem that BEFORE the fall, when man was still innocent, God’s intention was for monogamy. The reason I say this is because He created only one wife for Adam, and His definition of marriage appears to support one man, one wife, as we can see from Genesis 2:24:
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
However, after the fall of man, men and women were punished differently-Genesis 3:16-19.
As a result, different things happened to their bodies when man fell and lost perfection. One of the differences is that their biological clocks were no longer in equal alignment. Men retained virility much longer than women, which may be (this is an opinion, not an insight from Scripture or the Spirit) why God allowed polygamy after the fall.
In conclusion, I believe that polygamy is not a sin and that it is better than adultery and gay marriage. But these are my personal views, and I could be wrong, and because I could be wrong, I don’t want to mislead people, so approach God in prayer and get your own enlightenment on this issue.
On the morals displayed by Muslims, he has this to say.
“Say what you want about Islam, but the morals Muslims display are commendable. How many practicing Muslim women do you see slaying? Paternity fraud is almost nonexistent in Islamic countries. Faith is not the only object of religion. Morality is just as vital!
On how Islam stands out as a complete way of life, by covering all aspects of their day-to-day endeavors, he has this to say.
“One reason I respect Islam is how it provides a complete way of life. Islam does not just cover how to pray or mosque. Even how you have intercourse, with your spouse, eat, sleep, go to toilet, etc, are governed by Islam. Islam gives Muslims clarity throughout life
Regarding obedience to one’s mother, he cited a popular Hausa rendering of the summary of all Hadiths dealing with the topic. After all, Pastor Reno Omokri was born and brought up in Sokoto, Nigeria and he speaks Hausa. His father, Justice Christopher Omokri, was a judge of the Sokoto State High Court. Reno Omokri attended primary and secondary school in Sokoto and later went on to study law at the University of Benin.
Omokri has spoken publicly about his experiences growing up in Sokoto and has said that he had a happy and fulfilling childhood there. He has also said that he is proud of his Sokoto heritage and that it has shaped his views on religion, culture, and politics.
“Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said paradise lies at a mother’s feet because no human love is greater than a mother’s love. Even if you are not a Muslim, you can still consider the depth and morality of this truism. Never quarrel with someone who brought you into this world because of a woman who rocks your world, be it your wife or lover. Especially when she will not discharge her own paradise of a mother but wants you to hands off yours. You can’t accept God and reject your parents when it is God who gave you to your parents!
On his call for Christians and Muslims to tolerate and respect one another, he has this to say.
“Your parents can choose your religion for you, but only you should select your faith. Religion is your relationship to your church or mosque or whatever physical place you worship. Faith is your relationship with the one true spiritual God. You were born into your religion, but you choose your faith. Don’t hate Islam and Muslims because you are a Christian, and don’t disdain Christianity and Christians because you are a Muslim. Don’t even look down on traditional African religion. Stealing, bribery and corruption are worse now in Africa than when our ancestors practised their ancient religions. Now, men are marrying men and women are wedding women in African nations with Christian and Muslim majorities. In pre colonial Africa, that could never happen. So, how bad could our ancestors faiths had been? Be open minded. If God speaks to you through faith, then explore it without looking down on others just because of their beliefs.
On his call for non-Muslims to respect the sensibilities of the Nigerian Muslims, he has this to say.
“It is essential that non-Muslims respect the sensibilities of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, in particular, and the worldwide mumins. These are honourable people who hold steadfastly to the teachings of nabi Muhammad (Salla Allahu Alayhi Wasalaam). In ignorance of their sacred principles, it is possible to cause unintended offence. However, when that is brought to light, there should not be any hesitation to address and redress those hurts.
The gentleness of our brothers and sisters should not be taken for granted. And I urge anyone who has become aware of how their actions have caused grief to adherents of Islam to speedily make amends so that the issue is laid to rest as soon as possible.
He went on to appreciate the Muslims for always standing against any internal or external attack on their faith.
“Dear @Humble09030,
Thank you for your feedback. When someone is insulting your religion, you can be polite. But I have every confidence in the Muslim Ummah to speak out forcefully when their religion is insulted. I may not be a Muslim. But if any group of people genuinely love God, it is the Mumin.
Many of you will physically defend your girlfriends if another man insults or assaults her. And the same set of people wants Muslims to be nice when a mere mortal inadvertently insults their religion.
You really don’t understand the North. If you insult them, they can take it. But if you insult Yeshua Hamashiach (yes, they don’t accept an insult to Jesus) or Muhammad (SAW).
For example, Harira Jibrin and her four underaged daughters were murdered by unknown gunmen in Anambra. Did Northerners reciprocate by killing Igbos? Ahmed Gulak was killed in Imo. Did they react? But try to insult prophet Muhammad even on the moon, and they will forcefully respond.
I urge you also to cast your mind back to how the Muslim Ummah condemned Nasir El-Rufai over his infamous Jesus joke.
From the bottom of my heart, I wish the body of Christ were as passionate for God as the Muslim Ummah. If we Christians respect our faith the way Muslims respect theirs, the moral fabric of our society will be higher than it is today. There will be peaceful mutual religious coexistence because they will know our boundaries, and we would know theirs, and that knowledge will bring peace.
There are several of his posts about motivations, how to make money online, politics, and the true account of the 1966 coup with incontrovertible evidence. He is also a fierce critic of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Nasiru El-Rufa’I, and Peter Obi.
On supporting irresponsibility and greed by being generous, he has this to say.
“I am not heartless because I refuse to give or lend you money (which you will never repay) for your emergency. Your failure to plan or prioritise is not my emergency. You can’t be using luxuries and begging for necessities. I never claimed to be nice. I am wise—big difference! My generosity is strategic, not erratic. I give where there is need, not where there is greed.
Despite being a staunch PDP member, he would go out of his way to defend the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu so long as he is convinced that the president is on track. This he did on several occasions that you may tend to wonder, ‘Was Reno Omokri hired to defend the policies of this APC-led government in spite of belonging to the opposition party?’. He would always say the bitter truth however unpopular it may be.
“A Tale of Two Nations
Minimum wage in Ghana is GHS446 or $40
Minimum wage in Nigeria is ₦30,000 or $38
A litre of fuel in Ghana costs GHS12.486 or $1.14
A litre of fuel in Nigeria costs ₦617 or $0.78
A bottle of coke in Ghana is GHS7, or $0.62.
A bottle of coke in Nigeria is ₦250, or $0.31.
Nigerian universities tuition average ₦50000 or $65.
Ghanaian universities tuition average GHS17,145 or $1503.
Please Fact-Check me:
Things are not easy in Nigeria. The government must increase the minimum wage and work with the private sector to improve the economy. Having said that, Nigeria is not the worst country on Earth. Quite the opposite. There are much benefits to being a Nigerian. Many countries would die to have the economic conditions we have in Nigeria. Things are not perfect. They can be a lot better. But Nigeria is still a great nation!
I can go on and on quoting his numerous posts on reviving the practices and beliefs of Christianity and his endorsement of Islamic practices and beliefs, but I will stop here. Reading Omokri’s posts made me become convinced that if Christians will heed his call and adjust their practices and beliefs accordingly, then, the disagreements between Christians and Muslims will reduce to the lowest level. Consequently, this will promote unity and peaceful coexistence among the adherents of these religions.
Salihu Lukman is an Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
