The Plateau State Police Command has refuted claims of involvement in investigating the alleged hacking of VeryDarkMan’s NGO and the diversion of N180 million.

Police spokesperson DSP Alabo Alfred clarified that the case wasn’t reported to them, nor did it fall within their jurisdiction. “The crime occurred in Abuja, and any investigation must be handled by the appropriate authorities there,” he stated.

VDM, in a video shared on December 26, alleged that hackers diverted funds from his NGO’s account and mentioned traveling to Jos, Plateau State, with a detective to pursue the matter.

The police emphasized that investigations involving Jos would require collaboration with officers from the jurisdiction where the case was initially reported.

As the New Year approaches, many of us feel a renewed sense of purpose, eager to set resolutions that promise personal growth and positive change.

However, the journey from setting these goals to achieving them can be challenging.

To ensure your resolutions are both meaningful and attainable, consider the following strategies:

1. Reflect on Your Motivations

Before setting any resolution, delve into the “why” behind your goal.

Understanding the deeper reasons for your aspirations provides clarity and motivation.

For instance, if your goal is to save more money, ask yourself: Is it for financial security, a dream vacation, or perhaps early retirement?

A survey by the CFB Board revealed that saving more money has become a top New Year’s resolution, this has surpassed traditional goals like exercising more.

2. Set Specific and Realistic Goals

Ambitious goals are inspiring, but they should be broken down into manageable steps.

Harvard Health suggests that breaking big dreams into small enough steps can make them more achievable.

For example, instead of resolving to “exercise more,” commit to a 30-minute walk three times a week.

This specificity not only makes the goal tangible but also allows for measurable progress.

3. Develop a Concrete Plan

Once your goal is defined, outline the steps needed to achieve it.

This might involve creating a schedule, setting deadlines, or identifying resources.

Cigna Global emphasizes the importance of making a plan, noting that determining the when, where, and why of your vision sets you on the right path.

4. Monitor Your Progress

Regularly tracking your progress keeps you accountable and highlights areas needing adjustment.

Consider maintaining a journal or using digital tools to record milestones.

Verywell Mind recommends keeping a resolution journal to write about successes and struggles, which can serve as a source of motivation during challenging times.

5. Embrace Flexibility and Patience

Understand that setbacks are a natural part of the process.

If you encounter obstacles, reassess and adjust your approach rather than abandoning your resolution.

The American Psychological Association advises setting small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of a singular, overwhelming goal on January 1, to help you reach your objectives.

6. Seek Support and Share Your Goals

Sharing your resolutions with friends or family can provide encouragement and accountability.

Forbes advises that publicizing your goals to friends and family can increase your commitment to them.

Additionally, consider joining groups or communities with similar objectives to share experiences and strategies.

7. Celebrate Small Victories

Acknowledge and reward yourself for the progress you make, no matter how minor it may seem.

Celebrating these achievements boosts morale and reinforces positive behaviour, making it more likely you’ll continue striving toward your larger goals.

By implementing these strategies, you transform your New Year’s resolutions from mere aspirations into actionable plans, increasing the likelihood of lasting change and personal fulfilment.

Remember, the journey of self-improvement is ongoing, and each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory in itself.

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the events that have significantly influenced Nigeria throughout the year.

From political shifts to economic developments and social challenges, this year has been marked by pivotal moments that have shaped the nation.

Political Landscape and Governance

The year commenced with the Ibadan explosion in January, which brought national attention to urban safety and regulation.

This incident showed the critical need for stringent safety measures in densely populated areas.

In the same month, the Ondo and Edo governorship elections were held, with the ruling party securing victories.

In April, a significant development occurred when a schoolgirl abducted during the Chibok kidnapping in 2014 was rescued in Gwoza, Borno State, along with her three children.

Economic Developments

In December, Shell received approval from Nigeria’s oil minister for the sale of $2.4 billion worth of onshore and shallow-water assets to Renaissance Group.

This was Shell’s exit from nearly a century of onshore operations in Nigeria and was part of a larger withdrawal by Western energy companies, including Exxon Mobil, Eni, and Equinor.

The sale faced a block in October by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) due to concerns about Renaissance’s capacity to manage the assets, which are estimated to hold 6.73 billion barrels of oil and 56.27 trillion cubic feet of gas.

Social Challenges and Public Safety

Tragically, in December, at least 13 people, including four children, died in two separate stampede incidents at Christmas charity events in Abuja and Anambra state.

These incidents occurred as large crowds gathered to receive food and clothing items during a severe cost of living.

There has also been a reoccurring incident of the National Grid collapse. The incident has caused blackouts in regions during the time of its collapse.

Security and Conflict

Throughout the year, Nigeria faced persistent security challenges.

In June, a strike by the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress disrupted operations at Abuja and Lagos airports and caused nationwide power outages.

Additionally, the conflict with Boko Haram continued, with incidents such as the attack on a convoy in Shiroro, Niger State, in November, resulting in casualties among security forces.

Sports and International Relations

In February, Nigeria’s national football team faced a setback by losing 2–1 against Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final held in Abidjan.

This loss was a disappointment for fans and showed areas for improvement in the national team’s performance.

The year 2024 has been a period of significant events for Nigeria, which encompasses political shifts, economic changes, social challenges, and security concerns.

As the nation moves forward, these events will undoubtedly influence its development and the well-being of its citizens.