News Agency of Nigeria
NYCN wants National Theatre recognised as IATF 2027 venue
General News

NYCN wants National Theatre recognised as IATF 2027 venue

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called on the Federal Government to designate the renovated National Arts Theatre as official venues for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027 in Lagos.

 

Mr Damilare Kuti, NYCN Lagos Mainland Coordinator, in a statement on Monday in Lagos, said making the National Theatre an IATF 2027 venue would relaunch the renovated edifice into national and international prominence.

 

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is scheduled to hold in Lagos in 2027.

 

He also urged the newly elected Lagos Mainland Council Chairman, Mr Jubril Emilagba, to join Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in supporting the campaign to host the event at the National Theatre.

 

“The National Theatre has all it takes to host the IATF 2027.

 

“We must all rally support for its successful hosting of the continental expo.

 

“Hosting IATF 2027 in the National Theatre would help it regain its lost glory as the premium destination for world-class events,” he said.

 

Also, Deborah Adepoju, NYCN Lagos Mainland Spokesperson, said the council was delighted that Lagos was named host city for the 2027 IATF, organised by AfCFTA and Afreximbank.

 

“Going by this year’s edition, IATF 2027 is expected to attract over 120,000 visitors to Nigeria and generate more than US$50 billion in trade deals.

 

“Over 2,100 exhibitors and 20 Heads of State are also expected, underscoring the growing importance of intra-African trade and the creative industries in driving economic growth.

 

“We believe this would not only boost the economy of Lagos, but also create thousands of temporary and permanent jobs for our teeming youths, as many foreign companies would open shops in Lagos afterwards,” Adepoju said.

 

Nigeria was named host country for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, with Lagos as the host city.

 

The announcement was made during the 2025 edition, which ended last week in Algiers, Algeria.

 

Now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, the National Theatre has remained largely unused after the completion of its renovation by the Bankers’ Committee since Aug. 28, 2024.

 

The renovation covered several facilities, including the 4,000-seater main bowl, a 3,000-seater banquet hall, exhibition halls, cinemas and VIP lounges.

 

It also include actors’ changing rooms, an industrial kitchen, over 300 toilet cubicles, a clinic, fire station, lobbies, and extensive roof repairs.

 

External works included refurbishment of the three entrance gatehouses, construction of four themed landscapes, a 250-capacity car park block, the ring road, and installation of street lighting and CCTV cameras.

 

The facility is also complemented by the National Theatre Blue Line train station.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Arts Theatre was originally constructed by the military regime of Gen. Yakubu Gowon and completed in 1976 under the Olusegun Obasanjo administration.

 

Its completion coincided with Nigeria’s hosting of the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77) in January 1977.

 

Since its inception in 2018, the IATF has rotated among Africa’s major economies. Egypt hosted the inaugural edition in Cairo, followed by South Africa in Durban in 2021.

 

Cairo hosted again in 2023, while Algiers staged the fourth edition in 2025.

 

Nigeria will become the fourth country, and the first in West Africa, to host the fair, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s trade and investment ambitions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Expert seeks stakeholder support to curb train derailments
General News

Expert seeks stakeholder support to curb train derailments

 

 

 

 

 

By Vivian Emoni

 

Prof. Umar Katsayal, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address train derailments and other challenges in Nigeria’s railway system.

 

Katsayal made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

He said such collaboration would enhance the sector and significantly contribute to economic growth across the country.

 

According to him, train derailments can be tackled through regular maintenance of tracks, trains, and related equipment.

 

He emphasised the need for strict safety procedures and the provision of well-trained operators and maintenance staff.

 

“Government cannot do the work alone.

 

“Various stakeholders in the transportation sector must support the government in addressing train derailments and other systemic issues,” Katsayal said.

 

He noted that collaboration with both local and international partners was crucial for implementing sustainable measures in the railway sector.

 

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the benefits of rail transportation, noting that an efficient railway system provided a fast, reliable, and cost-effective mode of transport for both passengers and freight.

 

He pointed out that one of the key objectives of the 2nd Abuja International Railway Conference and Exhibition was to bring together stakeholders to share ideas and knowledge that would advance the railway system.

 

Strengthening the rail sector, he said, would promote economic development by facilitating trade, commerce, tourism, and job creation in various areas such as operations, maintenance, and construction.

 

“Railways are also relatively environmentally friendly, producing lower greenhouse gas emissions per ton of freight or per passenger compared to road transport,” Katsayal said.

 

He called on all stakeholders, including federal and state governments, international experts, and Nigerians at large, to support and strengthen the railway system for the nation’s benefit.

 

On project implementation, Katsayal urged the government to ensure proper execution of infrastructure projects in the sector.

 

He stressed the importance of feasibility studies, route planning, and careful design.

 

He added that infrastructure must be consistently monitored by technical experts to ensure proper maintenance and prevent derailments or technical issues.

 

“Effective implementation requires collaboration among government agencies, private sector entities, and other relevant stakeholders,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

ICSAN urges governance professionals to embrace AI
General News

ICSAN urges governance professionals to embrace AI

 

 

By Adebola Adegoke

 

The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has stressed the need for governance professionals to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) in addressing emerging global challenges.

 

 

 

Mr Francis Olawale, Vice President of ICSAN, made this known on Monday at a news conference in Lagos to announce the institute’s forthcoming annual conference.

 

 

 

Olawale said AI was rapidly transforming corporate governance by reshaping decision-making, accountability, and risk management.

 

 

 

He emphasised that corporate governance now extends beyond compliance and reporting, requiring integration of strategy, innovation, and technology.

 

 

 

He cautioned that governance professionals must balance technology use with ethics, legality, and transparency.

 

 

 

“We should not feel threatened by AI. We only need to constantly upscale ourselves, understand its limits, and integrate it effectively,” he said.

 

 

 

Olawale explained that ICSAN’s 49th Annual Conference would examine the future of governance in a world defined by technological disruptions.

 

 

 

The conference will hold on Sept. 18 and Sept. 19 with the theme: “Reimagining Governance: Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Excellence”.

 

 

 

“One of the sub-themes, Balancing AI with Ethics and Accountability, will address legal and ethical concerns surrounding AI in governance,” he added.

 

 

 

He noted that participants would gain practical insights to overcome disruption fears and embrace innovation with confidence.

 

 

 

“Information is power. Knowledge is power. Attendees will leave better equipped to handle innovations and disruptions,” he said.

 

 

 

He explained that the conference would attract legal experts, regulators, company secretaries, and academics from within and outside Nigeria.

 

 

 

The event will be chaired by Mr Udo Udoma, Board Chairman of Seplat Energy, and Mr Emmanuel Ikazoboh, Chairman of Dangote Cement.

 

 

 

Olawale described the conference as an “intellectual harvest” expected to generate actionable recommendations for both public and private sectors.

 

 

 

He said communiques from the gathering would be published and shared with government agencies to guide policy formulation.

 

 

 

He added that the conference would feature awards, including Chartered Secretary of the Year, Corporate Governance Excellence Award, and Media Award.

 

 

 

Olawale assured that ICSAN remained committed to strengthening professionals’ confidence and competence in navigating disruptive technologies.

 

 

 

Beyond the annual event, he said ICSAN is dedicated to capacity building, advocacy, and awareness creation across various economic sectors.

 

 

 

He stressed that professional bodies must objectively critique government policies while supporting positive reforms.

 

 

 

“We want people to become more knowledgeable, confident, and open to innovation,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Exhibition to celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy opens in Lagos
Culture & Tourism

Exhibition to celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy opens in Lagos

 

 

By Folasade Adeniran

An exhibition designed to showcase the life, musical and enduring legacy of the late Afrobeats pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, will open in Lagos in October.

 

The exhibition, with the theme “Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion”,  is organised by Whitespace Creative Arts (AWCA) Foundation, with support from the French Embassy in Nigeria, the Kuti family and Ecobank.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 10-week cultural programme will run from Oct. 12 to Dec. 28, featuring a rich blend of archives, music, cinema, talks, workshops, fashion and youth engagement.

 

Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos, Mr Laurent Favier, Consul-General of the French Embassy in Lagos, said France was honoured to support a high-quality tribute to Fela.

 

“France has always been a heartland for Fela Kuti, supporting not only his music but also his activism.

 

“In the 1980s, he struck a chord with the times and fascinated the French press, which was the first to talk about the ‘Fela phenomenon’.

 

“These ties continue with his talented family; Femi, Seun, Made, and others,” Favier said.

 

He explained that the exhibition was originally conceived by the Philharmonie de Paris – Cité de la Musique in 2022 and curated by French and Nigerian experts.

 

According to him, the Paris edition drew wide acclaim, attracting 60,000 visitors within a month.

 

“It was a true exercise in collective and intercultural intelligence, which enriched this Lagos edition.

 

“With more archives, resources and the strong involvement of the Kuti family, the experience promises to be even more dynamic,” he said.

 

Favier added that the project reflects France’s broader cultural cooperation with Nigeria, built on mutual respect and equal partnership.

 

In her remarks, Ms Onoshiokhue Ako, Project Lead, Culture Producer, Afrobeat Rebellion, said the exhibition seeks to create a cohesive experience that resonates across generations.

 

“For us, Afrobeat Rebellion is more than an exhibition.

 

“It is a living season of culture. We designed it tobridge generations: from the children creating in the Young Rebels’ Corner to the elders who remember Fela firsthand, and everyone in between.

 

“We thank the Philharmonie de Paris for their deep reverence for Fela’s music. They pioneered this significant cultural exhibition, which has now expanded into what we have here.

 

“To Ecobank, our host and home for three months, we are grateful. You stand as a true African centre, a home and a symbol of the continent’s cultural and economic ambition,” she said.

 

Ako also appreciated the Kuti family for their invaluable support and contributions to the project.

 

Speaking on the essence of reimagining the exhibition, curator and founder of June Creative Art Advisory, Seun Alli, said that Fela was too often reduced to a handful of catchphrases and uninformed stories.

 

Ali said these included songs like “Zombie” and “Water No Get Enemy,” the Kalakuta fire, his marriage to 27 women, or the unfounded claim that he performed on stage in his underwear.

 

“Curating Afrobeat Rebellion in Lagos is a deliberate refusal of this flattening.

 

“It aims to reposition Fela not merely as a musician or rebel, but as a public intellectual whose music and philosophy are deeply intertwined with Africa’s social, political, and intellectual histories.”

 

Alli said that Fela’s work was never just style or spectacle, but rather catalyst of revolt and hope, the soundtrack for those living under oppression, corruption, and the daily failures of power.

 

“Nearly three decades after his passing, it remains a profound mystery how Abami Eda’s philosophy continues to resonate so powerfully across all facets of our shared human experience,” she said.

 

 

Omoboye Odu,  Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations of Ecobank, said: “Hosting Afrobeat Rebellion at EPAC is a statement of pride in Africa’s creative power and resilience.

 

“Fela’s legacy is Nigerian; it is African, and it belongs to the world. We are honoured to provide the stage for this historic homecoming.”

 

Fela’s son, Femi Kuti, appreciated the organisers for honouring his father.

 

“We are glad that Fela is still recognised, appreciated, and honoured. As the years went by, people still understood what he stood for,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Fans hail thrilling AFC World Series MMA in Lagos
Sports

Fans hail thrilling AFC World Series MMA in Lagos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

 

Fans have praised the just concluded AFC World Series Mixed Martial Arts Championships in Lagos, describing it as one of the most captivating sporting events.

 

 

 

The spectators, speaking on Tuesday with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said the week-long show was loaded with excitement, with fighters proving their skills and knowledge of the sport.

 

 

 

They noted there were no dull moments throughout.

 

 

 

Funsho Adekunle, a keen MMA follower, said the bouts were highly competitive and the referees performed credibly. He stressed that victories were achieved without any controversial decisions.

 

 

 

Another fan, Chinedu Nwaneri, said the fighters performed at top level. He was proud to witness history in the making and urged more gender inclusivity.

 

 

 

Victor Akhimien, Technical Director of Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts, expressed delight over the turnout. He said the AFC partnership was critical for grassroots development of the growing sport.

 

 

 

Akhimien noted that sponsorship was key to the future of MMA in Nigeria. He called on corporate organisations to invest and help elevate the sport nationally.

 

 

 

According to him, the federation plans to engage young athletes at grassroots level and push for MMA’s inclusion in the Nigeria University Games (NUGA).

 

 

 

Raad Aswani, who spearheaded the event, praised the fighters and their officials. He said it had been an unforgettable week of excitement and talent showcase in Lagos.

 

 

 

“The athletes gave their hearts, sweat and spirit. The results were incredible and delighted fans at the stadium and those streaming online,” Aswani told NAN.

 

 

 

He added that fighters and fans from across Nigeria and Africa were eager for future events. “The hunger is real,” he said.

 

 

 

Aswani stressed that the AFC stage was where dreams were both imagined and fulfilled. He hailed media for spotlighting grassroots talent.

 

 

 

Fighters also spoke glowingly. Joseph Jackson, who won his 65.8kg bout, said it was a dream start. “I’m a warrior and I won’t stop,” he said.

 

 

 

Goodnews John, who lost to Jackson, admitted it was a learning experience. A kickboxer by background, he said he would train harder to excel in MMA.

 

 

 

Plateau’s Moses Kure impressed with a quick submission win against Kenneth Love. He promised to keep thrilling fans and described the AFC platform as a potential global brand.

 

 

 

The championships, which ran from Sept. 11 to Sept. 15 at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, drew 100 fighters and concluded with high praise from fans and participants alike. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

UNICEF champions support for enhanced social protection in Oyo
General News

UNICEF champions support for enhanced social protection in Oyo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Olatunde Ajayi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed a renewed commitment to work with sub-national governments toward improved investment in social protection.

 

 

 

UNICEF Chief of Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, stated this at the official launch of “Supporting Sustainable Social Protection System (SUSI) Project”, on Monday in Ibadan.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that SUSI project is a joint project implemented by UNICEF in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), with funding from the European Union (EU).

 

 

 

The project aims to transform the lives of the most vulnerable across communities through access to quality healthcare, education and other social securities.

 

 

 

Lafoucriere said that SUSI was designed to support government in the acceleration and expansion of social protection coverage.

 

 

 

She commended the state government for the remarkable steps taken, including the creation of a Social Protection Policy that provides a framework for implementing social protection in the state.

 

 

 

According to her, the step has also led to the creation of a Social Protection Coordination Department, a draft bill for social protection awaiting legislative action, and several ongoing social protection initiatives.

 

 

 

The UNICEF chief however, noted that strategic, operational, and technical challenges still exist, thereby limiting coverage for the most vulnerable – especially the children, women, the elderly, and people living with disabilities.

 

 

 

“In the current context, around 48.7 per cent of the entire population and 72.7 per cent of children (0-17 years) remain multi-dimensionally poor with only 11 per cent captured in the social registry of the poor and vulnerable.

 

 

 

“With approximately two per cent of the Oyo state population receiving any form of social assistance, the urgency for improved investment in social protection is now.

 

 

 

“The project is not just about systems and structures; it is about enhancing Oyo state’s shock-responsiveness capabilities.

 

 

 

“It is about reinforcing policy frameworks and integrating financial mechanisms into state budgets and planning efforts in ways that are sustainable and scalable.

 

 

 

“We have confidence in what we can achieve together. UNICEF will continue to support Oyo state in building a social protection system that works for everyone,” she said.

 

 

 

Also, the Programme and Social Policy Manager for UNICEF, Mr Muhammad Okorie, said UNICEF in collaboration with relevant government agencies in the state had carried out identification process for poor and vulnerable in their households.

 

 

 

He added that the initiative had made them traceable and captured in the social register, enabling the next step of updating their details with national identity numbers and bank account information.

 

 

 

“We need to increase the number of households on the state social register. By the end of 2026, we expect that an additional 250,000 households would have been included.

 

 

“The essence of this is to make it easy to identify where vulnerable people are and target them with their needs.

 

 

“We are also looking at making sure that this register is also interoperable, where MDAs, government and partners are able to access them to be able to reach those who need the services,” he said.

 

 

 

The Oyo State Acting Governor, Adebayo Lawal, while launching the project, said that the initiative would provide modernised social protection management information system fully interoperable across relevant ministries, departments and agencies in the state.

 

 

 

He noted that collaboration with UNICEF, EU and ILO would bring about comprehensive approach at reducing poverty in the state.

 

 

 

“With the continued support of the European Union and other development partners, we are confident that we will achieve greater progress in deepening social inclusion and building human resilience.

 

 

 

“All stakeholders, civil society organisations, private sector, and all citizens must unite in advancing this noble course,” he said.

 

 

 

The acting governor urged all development partners to align with state government institutions and local communities to ensure the full and effective realisation of the initiative’s objectives. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

UNILAG Alumni commends FG for bold strides in education 
Culture & Tourism

UNILAG Alumni commends FG for bold strides in education 

 

 

By Henry Oladele

 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association on Monday commended the Federal Government for some bold steps it had taken in the Education Sector.

 

The President of the association, Mr Ifeoluwa Oyedele, gave this commendation at a news conference for the association’s 55th Anniversary and Award night coming up later this year.

 

Oyedele, particularly, lauded the establishment of the NELFUND.

 

He said, “This has made it possible for students in Nigeria to continue with their education without any break.

 

“Recently, the federal government also approved full scholarship for students in technical education at all levels. This is really commendable.”

 

The association’s president also commended the government for its commitment to resolve the impasse between itself and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

 

He added that the government should find a lasting solution to its issues with ASUU, to avert a nationwide strike.

 

“The salaries of our lecturers is nothing to write about, and that’s why we suffer from an excessive brain drain.

 

“A university professor cannot even afford to send his own children to the same university where he lectures. That has to change.

 

“I am happy that the federal government at the highest level, has waded into this issue and I am optimistic that the government will not allow us to go on strike.

 

“However, we must devise a new strategy, a new model for funding education.

 

“Our educational sector is under strain. From the primary to tertiary level, institutions face overwhelming challenges,” he said.

 

Among those challenges, he mentioned inadequate funding that left schools struggling to deliver quality education, adding that there were lagging brain drain among the best trade minds.

 

“Also, the persistent challenge of welfare for our teachers, lecturers and researchers is a very good task to shape the minds of the next generation.

 

“That is why, as an association, we have chosen to be part of the solution.

 

Oyedele said that over the years, it had stepped forward to boost the quality of students’ mentorship and support, adding that it had also opened doors of opportunity to countless students.

 

“We have contributed to rebuilding some of our lecture halls and hostels, and undertaken advocacy to ensure that issues of education remain at the forefront of our national conversation.

 

“We cannot wait to do more,” Oyedele said.

 

He stressed that government at all levels had the task to make education the true quality it deserved to be.

 

He called on every Nigerian citizen, and especially every alumnus, to give back to their Alma mater, whether through mentorship, financial support or advocacy.

 

“Every contribution matters and in spite of the challenges, I stand before you today full of optimism. Nigeria is a place of talent, resilience, and creativity.

 

“With the right support, our universities will not only compete with their global counterparts but also drive national development in science, technology, the arts and government.

 

“The truth of the matter is that education needs money. And without money, you cannot perform education,” Oyedele said.

 

On the alumni’s 55th anniversary celebration, Oyedele said that the recognition and award night was not just another event on the calendar, but a flagship gathering of all alumni worldwide.

 

He noted that it was an event where all the alumni would come together to celebrate excellence, honour outstanding contributions, and very importantly, raise much needed funds to support the association.

 

“This year’s edition is particularly significant because it marks our 55th anniversary.

 

“It will take place on Oct. 17, and will be held at Eko Hotel and Suites, with the Special Guest of Honour being His Excellency, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Ibrahim Shettima,” he said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the awardees for the coming alumni anniversary celebration include Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria; Wole Olanipekun, Pro-Chancellor, UNILAG, among others. (NAN)

 

 

Edited by Christiana Fadare

CVR : APC chairman urges Ikorodu residents to register for PVC
Politics

CVR : APC chairman urges Ikorodu residents to register for PVC

 

 

 

 

By Adepote Arowojobe

 

Alhaji Waheed Animashaun, Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Ikorodu, Lagos State, has urged eligible residents to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to get their Permanent Voter Card (PVC).

 

 

 

Animashaun made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Ikorodu.

 

 

 

NAN reports the party chairman spoke on the sidelines of the inauguration of the committee on Continous Voters Registration (CVR) in the community.

 

 

 

NAN reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says the CVR will run for a year and is scheduled to end on Aug. 30, 2026.

 

 

 

Animashaun particularly urged newly relocated residents and those who just turned 18 years to take advantage of the exercise to get their voter cards.

 

 

 

According to him, the CVR initiative is aimed at encouraging residents, especially first-time voters and those without PVC, to register and be eligible to participate in elections.

 

 

 

Animashoun urged traditional rulers, youths, market women/men, religious leaders and councillors to be actively involved in sensitising eligible voters.

 

He added that each zone would have designated agents to assist residents with registration.

 

 

 

“The exercise is part of efforts to deepen democratic participation and strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

“The CVR initiative is aimed at encouraging residents, especially first-time voters and those without PVC, to register and be eligible to participate in future elections,” he said.

 

Earlier, Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, former Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, said that the CVR programme is an opportunity for citizens to take ownership of their democratic rights.

 

Olabanji-Oba, who is the committee’s publicity secretary, said that the committee had devised a structure that would make voter registration accessible in all geopolitical zones of the local government.

 

“Politics is all about numbers, and the PVC is the most powerful tool any citizen can use.

 

” The refusal of residents to participate in voting has a lot of consequences.

 

“The days of indifference should be over because democracy thrives only when people are actively involved.” she said.

 

She called on residents to see the exercise as part of a renewed hope for greater representation in Lagos State politics.

 

“Your PVC is your identity and your strongest weapon in building a better future,” she said.

 

Olabanji-Oba, expressed gratitude to the division’s apex party leader, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, an ex deputy governor of the state, for his “exemplary leadership that has kept Ikorodu united as one family under the party,”.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Buhari Bolaji

21st Akwaaba Travel Expo opens in Lagos
Culture & Tourism

21st Akwaaba Travel Expo opens in Lagos

By Joan Odafe

The 21st edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market opened in Lagos on Sunday, drawing tourism boards, travel practitioners and industry stakeholders from across Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day expo is organised by Akwaaba Travel Market Ltd. in partnership with Wakanow, Air Peace, Interswitch, Lagos State and Gambia.

The three-day expo, which will hold from Sept. 14 to Sept. 18, will be a gathering of airlines, travel agents, tour operators, hospitality brands, content creators and tourism boards from various African countries.

NAN also reports that the expo, which opened with exhibitions, also featured a culinary competition – the ‘Jollof Rice War’, and an awards ceremony.

The jollof rice war was among 10 chefs, who explored various flavours of jollof rice, including asun, native, ofada, seafood and coconut infused.

Earlier, the Convener, Ikechi Uko, said the programme had been carefully curated to deliver maximum value for over 3,000 participants expected at the event.

“Akwaaba, recognised as West Africa’s only international travel and exhibition and one of the largest in Africa, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting intra-African travel, trade and cultural exchange.

“This year’s edition promises to be historic as it will host the highest collection of airlines at any travel expo in Africa, reinforcing its position as a hub for aviation connectivity and partnerships in the continent,” he said.

Dr Abisoye Fagade, the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), who used the platform to congratulate Nigerian Chef Hilda Baci on her recent feat, cooking the largest pot of jollof rice, described the delicacy as Nigeria’s gift to the world.

The director-general announced that the institute plans to host an event for the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest dining table in December.

The Founder of Taste of African Vibes, Jibola Abati, highlighted the role of travel content creators in promoting destinations.

Abati, who is also the Convener of the African Travel Content Creator Conference, urged governments to collaborate with the creatives to give the continent the deserved visibility.

“They have been using their resources to promote Nigeria.

“Material support and partnerships will encourage them to do more,” he said.

NAN further reports that the Gov. Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti received ‘The Tourism Governor of the Year’ award, while the state was awarded the ‘Most Active Tourism State’. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Experts urge use of AI to strengthen agriculture, energy resilience in Africa
Foreign

Experts urge use of AI to strengthen agriculture, energy resilience in Africa

 

 

Experts at the second Africa Climate Summit have stressed the need to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster the resilience of Africa’s agriculture and energy sectors.

 

According to a report by ENA, a partner of TV BRICS, panellists at the summit underscored AI’s potential to improve climate forecasting, enhance resource management, and accelerate the shift towards renewable energy.

 

Experts at the second Africa Climate Summit, held in Addis Ababa, highlighted opportunities and challenges in data, funding, and governance.

 

Ousmane Ndiaye, Director General of the African Centre of Meteorological Application for Development (ACMAD), said AI could transform climate prediction.

 

Emmanuel Manasseh, Africa Regional Director of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), highlighted AI’s role in optimising energy use and developing “smart cities” amid rapid urbanisation.

 

Participants urged policymakers to prioritise investment in AI-driven agricultural projects, including virtual advisory platforms for farmers.

 

The experts also called for closer cooperation among African nations to share data and best practice, learning from successful models in other countries, to fully realise AI’s potential in addressing climate challenges. (TV BRICS/NAN)(www.nannew.ng)

 

 

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

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