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Mark Zuckerberg Shares a note he wrote to his team after Facebook WhatsApp & Instagram Downtime

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After Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram users were unable to have access to the apps for hours on Monday 4th October 2021, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has shared a note he wrote to his team. Read below

I wanted to share a note I wrote to everyone at our company.


Hey everyone: it’s been quite a week, and I wanted to share some thoughts with all of you.

FIRS

First, the SEV that took down all our services yesterday was the worst outage we’ve had in years. We’ve spent the past 24 hours debriefing how we can strengthen our systems against this kind of failure. This was also a reminder of how much our work matters to people. The deeper concern with an outage like this isn’t how many people switch to competitive services or how much money we lose, but what it means for the people who rely on our services to communicate with loved ones, run their businesses, or support their communities.

READ: Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram suffer worldwide outage

Second, now that today’s testimony is over, I wanted to reflect on the public debate we’re in. I’m sure many of you have found the recent coverage hard to read because it just doesn’t reflect the company we know. We care deeply about issues like safety, well-being and mental health. It’s difficult to see coverage that misrepresents our work and our motives. At the most basic level, I think most of us just don’t recognize the false picture of the company that is being painted.

Many of the claims don’t make any sense. If we wanted to ignore research, why would we create an industry-leading research program to understand these important issues in the first place? If we didn’t care about fighting harmful content, then why would we employ so many more people dedicated to this than any other company in our space — even ones larger than us? If we wanted to hide our results, why would we have established an industry-leading standard for transparency and reporting on what we’re doing? And if social media were as responsible for polarizing society as some people claim, then why are we seeing polarization increase in the US while it stays flat or declines in many countries with just as heavy use of social media around the world?

At the heart of these accusations is this idea that we prioritize profit over safety and well-being. That’s just not true. For example, one move that has been called into question is when we introduced the Meaningful Social Interactions change to News Feed. This change showed fewer viral videos and more content from friends and family — which we did knowing it would mean people spent less time on Facebook, but that research suggested it was the right thing for people’s well-being. Is that something a company focused on profits over people would do?

The argument that we deliberately push content that makes people angry for profit is deeply illogical. We make money from ads, and advertisers consistently tell us they don’t want their ads next to harmful or angry content. And I don’t know any tech company that sets out to build products that make people angry or depressed. The moral, business and product incentives all point in the opposite direction.

But of everything published, I’m particularly focused on the questions raised about our work with kids. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on the kinds of experiences I want my kids and others to have online, and it’s very important to me that everything we build is safe and good for kids.

The reality is that young people use technology. Think about how many school-age kids have phones. Rather than ignoring this, technology companies should build experiences that meet their needs while also keeping them safe. We’re deeply committed to doing industry-leading work in this area. A good example of this work is Messenger Kids, which is widely recognized as better and safer than alternatives.

We’ve also worked on bringing this kind of age-appropriate experience with parental controls for Instagram too. But given all the questions about whether this would actually be better for kids, we’ve paused that project to take more time to engage with experts and make sure anything we do would be helpful.

Like many of you, I found it difficult to read the mischaracterization of the research into how Instagram affects young people. As we wrote in our Newsroom post explaining this: “The research actually demonstrated that many teens we heard from feel that using Instagram helps them when they are struggling with the kinds of hard moments and issues teenagers have always faced. In fact, in 11 of 12 areas on the slide referenced by the Journal — including serious areas like loneliness, anxiety, sadness and eating issues — more teenage girls who said they struggled with that issue also said Instagram made those difficult times better rather than worse.”

But when it comes to young people’s health or well-being, every negative experience matters. It is incredibly sad to think of a young person in a moment of distress who, instead of being comforted, has their experience made worse. We have worked for years on industry-leading efforts to help people in these moments and I’m proud of the work we’ve done. We constantly use our research to improve this work further.

Similar to balancing other social issues, I don’t believe private companies should make all of the decisions on their own. That’s why we have advocated for updated internet regulations for several years now. I have testified in Congress multiple times and asked them to update these regulations. I’ve written op-eds outlining the areas of regulation we think are most important related to elections, harmful content, privacy, and competition.

We’re committed to doing the best work we can, but at some level the right body to assess tradeoffs between social equities is our democratically elected Congress. For example, what is the right age for teens to be able to use internet services? How should internet services verify people’s ages? And how should companies balance teens’ privacy while giving parents visibility into their activity?

If we’re going to have an informed conversation about the effects of social media on young people, it’s important to start with a full picture. We’re committed to doing more research ourselves and making more research publicly available.

That said, I’m worried about the incentives that are being set here. We have an industry-leading research program so that we can identify important issues and work on them. It’s disheartening to see that work taken out of context and used to construct a false narrative that we don’t care. If we attack organizations making an effort to study their impact on the world, we’re effectively sending the message that it’s safer not to look at all, in case you find something that could be held against you. That’s the conclusion other companies seem to have reached, and I think that leads to a place that would be far worse for society. Even though it might be easier for us to follow that path, we’re going to keep doing research because it’s the right thing to do.

I know it’s frustrating to see the good work we do get mischaracterized, especially for those of you who are making important contributions across safety, integrity, research and product. But I believe that over the long term if we keep trying to do what’s right and delivering experiences that improve people’s lives, it will be better for our community and our business. I’ve asked leaders across the company to do deep dives on our work across many areas over the next few days so you can see everything that we’re doing to get there.

When I reflect on our work, I think about the real impact we have on the world — the people who can now stay in touch with their loved ones, create opportunities to support themselves, and find community. This is why billions of people love our products. I’m proud of everything we do to keep building the best social products in the world and grateful to all of you for the work you do here every day.


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Ex-Oyo Governor Ladoja Installed as 44th Olubadan of Ibadan

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The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
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The odyssey of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja to the ancestral throne of Ibadan is not only historic but profoundly political, laced with trials and triumphs.

THE NEW OLUBADAN OF IBADANLAND, OBA RASHIDI ADEWOLU LADOJA
THE NEW OLUBADAN OF IBADANLAND, OBA RASHIDI ADEWOLU LADOJA

History often unfolds slowly, like a scroll revealing one line at a time. In Ibadan, a city steeped in tradition and resilience, history has once again taken a defining turn.

Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State, businessman, politician, and activist, is now preparing to ascend the exalted throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

FIRS

His decades-long journey, filled with trials, victories, and service, tells a compelling story of destiny, courage, and legacy. From political powerhouses to royal lineage, from boardrooms to the battlefields of democracy, Ladoja’s life blends tradition with transformation. His ascension is not only personal fulfilment but also a cultural and historical moment for Ibadanland.

Indeed, his coronation stands as a milestone, a testament to resilience, faith, and destiny fulfilled. On September 26, 2025, Oba Ladoja will be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, closing a circle that began 34 years ago when he became Mogaji of his family compound in Isale-Osi. But this is no ordinary coronation; it is the culmination of a saga defined by ambition, resistance, exile, betrayal, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.

Road to Royalty: From Mogaji to Monarch

It began in 1991 when Rashidi Ladoja became Mogaji (family head) of the Arusa compound in Isale Osi, a deeply rooted quarter in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area. That symbolic beginning marked the first step on Ibadan’s rigorous 36-step chieftaincy ladder, reserved for those destined to wear the revered crown.

The Ibadan succession system is unique among Yoruba kingdoms. Unlike other traditional stools where royal families are narrowed to specific lineages, the Olubadan system is remarkably open and transparent. Two lines of succession, the civil (Otun) and the military (Balogun), run concurrently, and candidates rise step by step until the next in line becomes Olubadan. It is an orderly system that rewards longevity, patience, and service, making the throne one of the most respected in Yorubaland.

On October 1, 1993, Ladoja was installed as Jagun Balogun Olubadan, formally entering the military line of succession. Over the next 31 years, he advanced steadily, surviving political turbulence, personal setbacks, and traditional disputes. Few endure the politically charged and physically demanding journey to the top, but Senator Ladoja did — with grit, patience, and determination.

“I never imagined destiny would call me to the throne at this time. It’s been one of patience, perseverance, and grace,” Oba Ladoja told a gathering at his Bodija residence after his official nomination.

Political Elite Meets Royal Heritage

In a city of warriors and statesmen, Oba Ladoja is the first former governor and senator to become Olubadan.

Trained as a chemical engineer in Belgium, he made his mark in oil, shipping, banking, agriculture, and transport before rising as a political force.

During the short-lived Third Republic, he was elected senator on the platform of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). In 2003, he defeated incumbent Lam Adesina to become Governor of Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Two years later, he was impeached in what many described as a conspiracy driven by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo and political strongman, Lamidi Adedibu. His reinstatement by the Supreme Court after 11 months in exile was more than a legal victory — it was a political resurrection. It cemented his reputation as “the indomitable warrior”, a man political opponents could not erase or ignore.

That resilience, combined with patient navigation of Ibadan’s chieftaincy system, has now borne fruit.

“It has been a bumpy journey filled with trials, but only made possible by the grace of God,” he told jubilant supporters.

Defiance and Reconciliation

Ladoja’s political career was often defined by principles that put him at odds with powerful figures.

In 2018, when then-Governor Abiola Ajimobi crowned Ibadan High Chiefs as kings, Ladoja stood alone in defiance. He rejected what he called a “carton-paper-made” beaded crown, declaring that the only crown worthy of him was the Olubadan’s. His refusal sparked years of political and legal confrontation.

“Why should I wear a crown not recognised by tradition?” he asked. “The throne is not for the desperate.”

Yet, in August 2024, in a radio interview, he softened his stance, saying unity was more important than pride: “The voice of the people is the voice of God. I am ready to accept the beaded crown if it will bring peace and allow me to serve the people of Ibadan.”

That statement shifted the atmosphere. His colleagues in the Olubadan-in-Council rallied behind him, and he was soon unanimously nominated and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the 44th Olubadan.

Unlike his clashes with Ajimobi, Ladoja’s relationship with Governor Makinde has been cordial and strategic. Makinde’s prompt approval of his nomination reflected a convergence of political and traditional power, a necessity in Oyo State where the Olubadan stool carries both cultural influence and political weight.

The Crown and the City

Ibadan is no ordinary city. It is the largest traditional Yoruba urban centre and the historic political capital of the old Western Region. The Olubadan, though largely symbolic, wields influence over millions.

For Oba Ladoja, this reign is not ceremonial. It is an opportunity to redefine the stool, blending cultural authority with political wisdom.

“I pray that my reign shall bring peace, prosperity, and progress to Ibadanland,” he said, calling for unity.

Expectations are high. From Oke Aremo to Abuja, all eyes are on him to redefine the modern monarch’s role not just custodian of rituals, but guardian of peace, diplomacy, and security. He has already urged coordinated efforts to secure Ibadan and Yorubaland amid rising insecurity.

The coronation of Oba Ladoja is more than a local event; it is a national stage. Expected guests include President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governors, business moguls, activists, and traditional rulers across Yorubaland and beyond.

Their presence underlines the symbolic place of Ibadan in Yoruba and Nigerian politics.

Activism, Sacrifice, and Legacy

Ladoja’s story is not just about royalty; it is about activism and identity. As a NADECO stalwart, he stood against military rule in the 1990s, supporting the pro-democracy struggle after the annulment of the June 12 election.

Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) recalls: “We used his ships for NADECO’s activities after the Senate was dissolved. His businesses were seriously affected — he had a shipping line and the largest palm plantation in West Africa then.”

As governor, he challenged a sitting president. As High Chief, he resisted compromising tradition. As a businessman, he sacrificed fortune for democracy. Now, as Olubadan, he embodies the fusion of political power and cultural authority.

To former Nigerian Ambassador, Dr. Yemi Farounbi, “Ibadan is the intellectual capital of Nigeria. It provided security for the Yoruba in times of war. Peace must return, and the Olubadan must lead it.”

Professor Tunde Adeniran, a former minister, added: “He comes with experience and expansive networks. Expectations are high. We must rally around him.”

For younger Ibadan residents, his ascension represents continuity and hope. “We grew up hearing about his struggles as governor and his fight for justice,” said Akeem Alabi, a postgraduate student at the University of Ibadan. “Now he is our king. We expect him to stand for the people, just as he did in politics.”

The Crown After the Storm

For many, the crowning of Oba Rashidi Ladoja is poetic justice, a fitting epilogue to a life of battles in politics, business, and tradition.

From Mogaji in 1991 to Olubadan in 2025, from impeachment to reinstatement, from defiance to reconciliation, he now wears the crown not as a reward but as a responsibility.

The royal father is no longer just the “cat with nine lives”; he is the king whose destiny has come full circle.

Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed readiness to work seamlessly with Oba Ladoja towards the development of Ibadan city, describing the new monarch as an exemplary leader whose wealth of experience in politics, business, and community service will enrich the Olubadan stool.

Makinde recalled that his own political journey could not be written without Ladoja’s role, stressing that: “Baba remains a father figure whose guidance has shaped many of us. I hold him in high esteem, and I believe Ibadan and Oyo State will benefit from his reign as Olubadan.”

As Ibadan embraces this new chapter, the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja stands as both history and prophecy fulfilled a story of destiny, resilience, and triumph, written across the canvas of politics, tradition, and legacy.

CULLED FROM THE GUARDIAN


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𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗹. 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲: 𝗛𝗼𝗻. 𝗢𝘁𝘂𝗼’𝘀 “𝗡𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆” 𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗶

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By Ima-owaji G. Shedrack

As the world commemorates the International Day of Peace, attention has once again shifted to the bold and inclusive policies of the Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area, Hon. Promise Lucky Otuo, whose leadership style has been described as a model for peacebuilding and sustainable development.

Since assuming office, Hon. Otuo has consistently emphasized that his government is a “no discrimination government,” a philosophy set to guide his policies and programs across the council.

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In a remarkable demonstration of this principle, the Chairman extended empowerment opportunities not only to indigenes but also to non-indigenes residing and trading in Andoni. This inclusive approach, observers say, has deepened trust, fostered unity, and reduced the tensions that often arise from feelings of neglect or inequality.

Mr. Ima-owaji G. Shedrack, a stakeholder in the Renewed Hope family, applauded the initiative, noting that Hon. Otuo has shown that peace is not just about preventing conflict but also a conscious steps in building an environment where fairness and inclusiveness are at the center of governance.

“As Andoni joins the world to mark the International Day of Peace, Hon. Lucky Otuo’s leadership style that is anchored on ‘no discrimination’ is built to offer a clear roadmap, where peace is not only preached but practiced through deliberate policies of fairness and equal opportunity.”

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Eid-ul-Mawlid: Uphold Hon. Lucky Otuo in your prayers, Ima-owaji Shedrack Urges non indigenes in ANOLGA

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A stakeholder in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Ima-owaji Shedrack, has called on Muslim faithful in the area to remember the Chairman of Andoni LGA, Hon. Lucky Promise Otuo, in their prayers as they celebrate Eid-ul-Mawlid, the commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Speaking on Friday during the nationwide celebration, Ima-owaji stressed the importance of continuous prayers for leaders at all levels, describing Hon. Lucky Otuo’s administration as one that transcends sentiments, tribal lines, and religious differences.

“The government of Hon. Lucky Otuo is one beyond discrimination. Both indigenes and non-indigenes are carried along. This is why I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to use this sacred celebration to pray for him and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Andoni LGA,” Ima-owaji said.

He further noted that the Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration provides Muslims with another opportunity to renew their commitment to unity and inclusiveness, while also offering prayers for leaders who are steering the affairs of the people with sincerity.

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Ima-owaji urged residents of Andoni, regardless of religion or origin, to embrace peace and support the development agenda of Hon. Otuo’s administration, which he said is focused on progress and inclusivity.

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What to Know About CBN’s New Geo-Tagging Requirement for POS Terminals

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a new directive requiring all Point of Sale (POS) terminals to be geo-tagged within the next 60 days, a move designed to curb fraud, enhance oversight, and modernize Nigeria’s digital payment ecosystem.

According to a circular released on August 26, 2025, any terminal not geo-tagged will be deactivated from October 20, 2025.

“This initiative is designed to ensure that all PoS terminals are traceable and that transactions are secure. Terminals operating outside their registered location will be flagged, and non-compliant devices will be deactivated,” the CBN stated.

Here’s a breakdown of what the policy means for operators, agents, merchants, and customers.

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What Geo-Tagging Means

Geo-tagging is the process of embedding location data, such as latitude and longitude, into a digital device.
For POS terminals, this means linking each machine to its exact physical address using GPS technology, creating a traceable digital footprint that makes every device verifiable and harder to misuse.

The CBN’s Key Requirements

  1. Geolocation Features
    All POS devices must have GPS and dual-frequency receivers for accurate location tracking.
  2. Real-Time Location Transmission
    Terminals must capture and transmit their exact location at the start of every transaction.
  3. Geofencing
    Each POS terminal will be restricted to a 10-metre radius around its registered location. Transactions outside this zone will be flagged for investigation.
  4. Registration
    Licensed banks and fintechs—such as Moniepoint, OPay, PalmPay, and others—must register each device with exact merchant coordinates through a payment aggregator.
  5. New Devices
    No new terminal will be certified or activated without geo-tagging.

Why Geo-Tagging Matters

  • Crackdown on Fraudulent Terminals
    Geo-tagging eliminates “ghost” or cloned devices and reduces card fraud, unauthorized withdrawals, and misuse of mobile POS machines. It also disrupts ransom collections and terrorism financing through untraceable transactions.
  • Better Oversight and Transparency
    Regulators gain real-time visibility of nationwide transactions, improving fraud detection and aiding financial inclusion strategies by identifying underserved areas.
  • Boosting Consumer Trust
    Customers gain stronger protection knowing every POS is tied to a verified address, building confidence in digital payments.

Impact on Stakeholders

  • Banks & Fintechs
    Institutions face the challenge of upgrading thousands of terminals and registering them within 60 days, requiring both funding and logistics.
  • POS Agents & Merchants
    Operators must work strictly within 10 metres of their registered business location, potentially disrupting mobile POS services that move around to serve customers.
  • Customers
    Shoppers stand to benefit most, with safer and more transparent transactions in Nigeria’s payment system.

Conclusion

The CBN’s geo-tagging directive is one of the most sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s digital payments landscape. While it presents operational hurdles for banks, fintechs, and agents, it promises stronger security, fraud reduction, and renewed consumer trust in the long run.

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Goodluck Nwaneri Pays Condolence Visit To The APC National Chairman

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Goodluck Nwaneri Pays Condolence Visit To The APC National Chairman
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Chief Goodluck Nwaneri, a Director city boy movement, has paid a condolence visit to the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, at his residence in Abuja, following the passing of his beloved mother, late Mrs. Lydia Toma Yilwatda.

During the visit, Chief Nwaneri expressed his deep sympathy to Prof. Nentawe and the entire Yilwatda family, describing the death of a mother as a painful and irreplaceable loss. He noted that the late Mrs. Lydia Toma Yilwatda lived an exemplary life of faith, humility, and service, evident in the leadership qualities and values instilled in her children.

Chief Nwaneri prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and asked God to grant the APC National Chairman and his family the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss. He also encouraged them to find comfort in the enduring legacy their mother left behind.

He further reaffirmed his solidarity with Prof. Nentawe in this moment of grief, while urging the family to remain strong and united in honoring the life and memory of their departed matriarch.

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