NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

FG partners WIPO to boost SMEs’ global competitiveness

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By Vivian Emoni

The Federal Government has partnered with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to enhance the global competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, made this announcement during a Strategic Capacity-building Programme for Nigerian SMEs, organised in collaboration with WIPO, on Friday in Abuja.

The minister was represented by Mr Adamu Yauri, Director of the Trademarks Registry, in the ministry.

Oduwole explained that the programme aimed to leverage intellectual property and branding as tools to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs.

She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to empowering SMEs through intellectual property and branding strategies.

She revealed that the initiative had selected and trained about 60 SMEs, equipping them with essential skills to foster business growth.

These SMEs, she noted, would serve as a reference for others, and the success of the programme would support efforts to expand future collaborations with WIPO.

Oduwole called on all relevant agencies to provide funding and resources to support the trained SMEs.

She also highlighted the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in enterprise development, citing the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA)’s dedication to ensuring strong training, mentorship, and empowerment for SMEs.

The minister further emphasised the economic potential of the creative sector and recognised its growing importance.

She expressed the ministry’s commitment to fostering innovation, leveraging technology, and strengthening partnerships to drive the SME sector forward.

Oduwole thanked WIPO for its unwavering support in ensuring the programme’s success.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Amb. Nura Rimi, also expressed appreciation for WIPO’s leadership in the initiative.

He urged participants to make the most of the knowledge and skills they acquired during the programme.

Rimi was represented by Mr Dafang Sule, Director of Federal Produce Service and Inspection.

Mr Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director of WIPO’s Nigeria Office, commended the commitment of the participants and encouraged them to view trademarks not just as marketing tools but as valuable commercial assets.

He added that SMEs should recognise the monetary value of trademarks and their potential for commercialisation.

In his remarks, Mr Chudi Ezingwe, Acting Managing Director of AEA, announced the establishment of the Abuja Business School of Entrepreneurship, aimed at providing globally recognised training programmes.

He also disclosed plans to launch the Abuja Talent Academy, which will support creatives and artists. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo and Abiemwense Moru

General News

National anthem, instruction manual of patriotism —Shettima

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By Angela Atabo

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that Nigeria’s national anthem is an “instruction manual of patriotism” for every Nigerian because of the values contained in it.

Shettima stated this at the unveiling of a book titled, “In Brotherhood We Stand; The Nigerian National Anthem Beyond Melody”, on Thursday, in Abuja.

The book is authored by Pastor Osere Daniels.

Represented by Dr Aliyu Umar, his Special Adviser on General Duties, Shettima encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the values enshrined in the national anthem and embody them in their daily lives.

“The reinstatement of our old national anthem is a reaffirmation of the ideals that build this country.

“This national anthem is an instruction manual of patriotism for every Nigerian, young and old.

“It does not merely celebrate Nigeria, it calls on every citizen to embody the spirit of Nigeria,” he said.

Shettima said that the first stanza is a reminder that Nigeria’s diversity is not a weakness but strength.

He explained that it is also a reminder that Nigeria’s many tongues and traditions should not lead to division but instead reinforce shared destiny.

Shettima added that service to the nation should not be the task of a few but the pride of all.

“The national anthem is a call for integrity, and a prayer of a nation striving for greatness.

“It is an appeal for divine guidance in the pursuit of a Nigeria, where oppression has no home, where every citizen finds dignity, and where prosperity is the reward.

“Our responsibility is to pass down a country where justice prevails, where truth is not negotiable, and where our national symbols are not tainted by corruption or compromise,” he said.

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, commended the author for the initiative to write a book that explained the lyrics of the national anthem.

Represented by Hajiya Fatima Abbas, wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, she said the wordings of the anthem were rich with terms on unity, peace, and progress,

According to the first lady, the national anthem is not just a song, but a reflection of Nigeria’s history, struggles, and aspirations.

“The book, In Brotherhood We Stand, challenges us to rise above our differences, embrace our diversity, and work tirelessly for the betterment of our beloved country.

“I encourage all Nigerians to take pride in our national anthem and to embody its values.

”Together we can build a Nigeria that truly honours the sacrifices of our forefathers and fulfills the dreams of future generations,” she said.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Sen. George Akume, said the book would fill the current gap in the public understanding and collective commitment to nation building.

Akume, who was represented by Prof.Babatunde Bernard, his Technical Adviser, recommended the book for general readership, especially to the political players, the younger generation and those in authority.

“As a proud Nigerian, I wish to assure Nigerians, especially our youth, that the nation is on track.

“I am confident in the reforms contained in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President aimed at positioning the country on the path to prosperity,” he said.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudden Abbas, said that a profound understanding of the ideals encapsulated in the national anthem was a better way of reclaiming Nigeria.

Represented by Dr Anthony Adepoju, Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Federal Character, Abbas lauded President Bola Tinubu for the foresight and courage to restore the old national anthem.

He said that strengthening civic education and restorating history back in schools was the right step to take.

Abbas noted that this would build values and patronism and encourage more writers to emulate the author in turning out books like this.

The Book Reviewer, Dr Otive Igbuzor, Executive Director, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, applauded the book.

According to him, the book will inspire a renewed commitment by Nigerians to apply the values of the national anthem in their daily conduct.

Otive said this would consequently transform them into better citizens, who would contribute meaningfully towards building the Nigeria of our dream.

“The book provides an in-depth examination of the Nigerian national anthem, emphasising its role as a symbol of unity, national identity, and moral guidance,” he said.

Pastor Osere Daniels, the author, said the book was his own way of contributing his quota, so as to add value to value reorientation in Nigeria.

“The missing link has been the loss of good value system in Nigeria.

“In the course of trying to bring Nigeria to where it should be, we must realign our values and our principles.

“The book which I have written today is, therefore, an effective tool for value reorientation.

“I believe that the values and principles embedded in the anthem are blueprints and roadmaps that can guide us in building a greater Nigeria,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Culture & Tourism

Copyright commission seeks NANTAP’s partnership to strengthen performers’ rights

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) says it is ready to work with the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) to strengthen performers’ rights protection under the Copyright Laws.

 

Dr John Asein, Director-General of NCC, said this on Wednesday in Lagos during the ongoing NANTAP National Delegates Convention.

 

The theme for the five-day convention, which will end on Feb. 22, is “Theatre, Politics and National Development”.

 

Asein said strengthening the performers’ rights protection was needed to address the challenges confronting different categories of performers in the digital age.

 

He said that some categories of performers were not included in the most recent copyright protection law designed in 2022.

 

According to him, the commission was not aware of some exceptions and infringements then.

 

He said this is the reason NANTAP’s effort would be required to strengthen the performers’ rights protection.

 

“There are new areas that are maturing, and this calls for joint action. The commission will be happy to work with the executive of NANTAP through a technical committee.

 

“This is to strengthen performers’ rights protection, identify gaps in the value chain, and address them through administrative and legislative actions.

 

“The team will also look into developing strategies for copyright education and training for service providers as well as theatre arts departments in our schools.

 

“There is a need to address emerging trends and create legal frameworks to safeguard performers in the digital age, create a more constructive role for theatre practitioners within the copyright ecosystem.

 

“The team will also look at activating the provisions on the protection of expressions of folklore and work together to ensure the protection and growth of our creative industry,” he said.

Asein recognised the role of theatre practitioners, their contributions to the rise of Nollywood and place in the creative ecosystem.

 

He noted that with the rise of new digital platforms, collaborations, and globalised distribution, the intersection of intellectual property and performing arts would continue to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for artistes.

 

He said that as part of the call to action, the commission would develop the outcome of the session into a publication on “Copyright and Theatre Arts”.

 

He explained that this would be a tribute to two Nigerians who greatly influenced the emergence of performer’s rights in Nigeria.

 

“These are Dr Sylvester Agbaje-Williams, a theatre enthusiast and key contributor to our modern copyright system; and Chief Hubert Ogunde, the father of Nigerian theatre, who advocated the inclusion of performers’ rights in the Copyright Act in 1988,” he said.

 

Also, Mrs Lynda Alphaeus, Director, NCC Lagos office, said the present copyright law could compete favourably with world practises but unfortunately artistes had failed to internalise the content for their use.

 

Alphaeus advised the artistes to take their time to read and understand the laws to be able to apply it.

 

She said, “The 2022 Copyright laws has made provision for the protection of works on the social media space. It allows NCC to set up dispute resolution panels to resolve copyright infringement cases.

 

“The new copyright laws now allows artistes to register their works with NCC to tackle issues of ownership, this will ensure further protection of individuals’ intellectual works.”

 

Prof. Dorcas Odunaike, Professor of Law, Babcock University, harped on the need for Nigerians to be reorientated on every aspect of the Copyright laws.

 

Earlier, Mr Israel Eboh, National President of NANTAP, said, “This is the time for NANTAP and NCC to work together in view of the need to create awareness on the existing laws.

 

“We have the human resources. You have the technical requirements.

 

“I think the problem with practitioners has to do with intellectual laziness. It is unfortunate. How much of the laws we know do we apply to the work we do? We need a change,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Education

Lagos partners technology firms to boost digital learning

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

Lagos State Government has partnered Kelv Consult and Classbox Educational Hub Ltd. to boost the use of digital tools for teaching and learning in public schools.

According to a statement by Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Kayode Sutton, Kelv Consult will equip junior and senior students with requisite knowledge and skills on computer programming, web designing, cyber security and data analysis

 

Sutton added that Classbox would provide teachers with customised digital devices and tools with embedded useful learning materials.

He quoted the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun, as saying that digital classrooms and learning materials had become important in both urban and underserved communities.

He also quoted Alli-Balogun as saying that digital learning was not just about providing technology, but also about fostering an educational ecosystem which would support teachers and students with digital devices and tools and rich contents to enhance learning outcomes.

According to Sutton, the commissioner charged teachers and students to make good use of the new experience, and gave the assurance that the state government would not relent in providing necessary support to enable them to excel.

He said that the state government had intensified efforts to provide quality education for all students in the state, regardless of their locations and socio-economic statuses. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

General News

Trafficking: NAPTIP urges faith-based organisations to educate congregations

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By Jessica Dogo

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has urged faith-based organisations to educate their congregations on ways to eradicate human trafficking in the country.

The Director-General of NAPTIP, Hajia Binta Adamu-Bello, made the plea at the fourth annual Interfaith Conference organised by MeCAHT and EXIST, on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the conference was organised in partnership with Sure4U, International Human Rights Advocacy and Awareness Centre, Symbols of Hope and MUHASA TVR.

She said human trafficking was a significant human rights violation in the country, and Nigeria served as a source, transit and destination point for trafficked persons.

Adamu-Bello, represented by the Director of Intelligence and Special Duties, NAPTIP, Mr Effeh Ekrika, said governmental agencies and international organisations play significant roles in combating human trafficking with NAPTIP as a focal agency.

She said faith organisations also play critical roles in preventing human trafficking through advocacy, awareness campaigns and moral education.

Adamu-Bello called on religious institutions, particularly churches and mosques, to educate their congregations on the dangers of human trafficking, emphasising ethical values and the sanctity of human lives.

She said this could be done through their sermons, workshops and community discussions.

“Faith-based organisations in Nigeria serve as critical first responders against human trafficking by engaging in prevention, rescue, rehabilitation and advocacy efforts.

“Their deep-rooted presence in societies, moral authority, and commitment to social justice make them valuable partners in the fight against this crime.

“Faith-based organisations therefore need increased support from the government, private sector, and international agencies.

“Strengthening collaboration between all stakeholders will ensure a more effective response for human trafficking, ultimately protecting vulnerable populations and upholding human dignity,” the NAPTIP boss said.

In his remarks, Rev. Dogara Gwana, from the Baptist Church, urged stakeholders to engage with relevant authorities, sign petitions and support policies that are meant to combat human trafficking.

Gwana, while condemning human trafficking, added that it was against faith claims and values system.

“For an effective engagement on this matter, we must begin by accepting that human trafficking is a vice that we must all condemn. It is against our faith claims and against our value system.

“I have also come to see that this evil thrives, not due to lack of religious teaching or values, it is simply a product of human depravity.

“The depravity of the soul will always blind the perpetrator from heeding what is right,” he said.

Meanwhile, Qousim Opakunle, who spoke on behalf of the Muslim Ummah, urged parents to always put an eye on their children, especially on the social media platforms.

Opakunle called on the Islamic community to rise up to their responsibility and synergise with relevant stakeholders to ensure that they protect people against human trafficking

“I call for collaboration between government and Islamic institutions like the mosques and Islamic groups to sensitise followers to wake up to their various responsibilities,” he said.

Earlier, Mr James Ikape, Executive Director, MeCAHT, urged stakeholders to help take the message to their congregations, saying that faith was a very powerful force that could stop issues of human trafficking in the society.

“As an organisation, we thought that it will be great to have people from different faith, Christians and Muslims, meet in Nigeria to discuss way out for human trafficking,” he said.

Karen Kjærgaard, a representative from Denmark, expressed delight as Christians and Islamic faithful came together to discuss human trafficking, a fast-growing crime in the world today. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Christiana Fadare

General News

Babangida, architect of Nigeria’s private sector – Dangote

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By Salif Atojoko

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Ltd., on Thursday, praised former Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, for implementing policies that liberated the private sector during his regime.

Dangote said this during the unveiling of the book, “A Journey in Service,” the autobiography of the former Head of State and the inauguration of the IBB Presidential Library.

Dangote commended Babangida for his transformative policies that encouraged Nigerian investors to play prominent roles in the economy.

He particularly highlighted the abolition of import licences, which helped stimulate domestic industries.

“These reforms, among others, ensured that Nigeria now has more private-sector involvement than any other country in Africa,” he said.

According to him, this shift, led to a contribution of 85 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product from the private sector, while the government contributes just 15 per cent.

“Your Excellency, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for all you have done for Nigeria. Many may not realise that you were the architect of the private sector in Nigeria.

“Anyone in the private sector who has achieved prominence today owes it to you, as you provided us with the necessary licences. In the past, we used to struggle to obtain licences through intermediaries, including Indians,” he said.

Dangote donated N8 billion to the IBB Presidential Library, to be paid at N2 billion annually over the four years allocated for the project’s completion.

He further pledged that if the project extended beyond this timeframe, he would continue to donate N2 billion annually until it was completed.

Other prominent Nigerians also pledged contributions to the construction of the library, with Alhaji Abdul Rabiu, the Chief Launcher and Founder of BUA Group, donating N5 billion.

Theophilus Danjuma, the co-Chief Launcher and Founder of the TY Danjuma Foundation, donated N3 billion. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

General News

Tinubu signs bills establishing varsities for Osun, Ekiti

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By Salif Atojoko
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday assented to two bills establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Osun, and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti.

The President said these specialised institutions would address the educational needs of the populace while driving research and innovation and contributing to the country’s overall economic growth and development.

Tinubu said the institutions would serve as training grounds for developing agriculture, science and technology professionals and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.

“According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria currently has 63 approved federal universities, 63 state universities and 149 private universities.

“On Feb. 3, the President approved establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni town of Tai, Rivers.

“The President also consented to the Federal Government takeover of a forfeited private university in Southern Kaduna and its transformation into a federal university.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

The night view of Zhoushan Port in Ningbo
General News

Group hails plans to overhaul Nigeria’s ports, create 20,000 jobs

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By Salif Atojoko

The Democratic Front (TDF), a think tank, has expressed optimism about the reforms in the maritime industry, which are projected to create 20,000 new jobs.

In a statement by Malam Danjuma Muhammad, its Chairman, TDF said plans to dredge key ports will enable the country reclaim its status as West Africa’s maritime hub.

“We are convinced that plans to dredge the nation’s seaports to pave way for larger vessels to berth in Nigeria will boost the revenue profile and make the ports more attractive.

“Furthermore, the projection by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola that the ambitious plan will lead to 20,000 new jobs is for us the beginning of the crystallisation of President Bola Tinubu’s vision for the sector,” said TDF.

The group urged the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to see the overhaul of the ports as the flagship of Tinubu’s deliverables in the maritime sector.

“We note that President Tinubu has left no one in doubt about his determination to harness, and develop Nigeria’s abundant resources in the maritime industry by creating a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

“It is also instructive that many industry players saw it as a deliberate and forward-looking move to expand opportunities in the sector for effective economic diversification.

“So, we were not surprised that the ministry has not only initiated but is also driving a series of reforms to develop and strengthen the sector,” continued the group.

It said it was gratifying that the effort resulted in high revenue generation by its agencies to the tune of over N850 billion in 2024, 77 per cent increase over their revenue performance in the previous year. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

General News

AI leadership role, Tinubu’s vision for greater Nigeria – TMV

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By Salif Atojoko

The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) on Wednesday acknowledged Nigeria’s leading role in driving Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Innovation to position the country as an ICT hub in Africa.

The group, in a statement by its Mr Chukwudi Enekwechi, its Chairman, said it was heartwarming that President Bola Tinubu espoused the vision at a recent meeting with Mr Sundar Pichal, Google Chief Executive Officer.

It said: “For us the strong interest of Google in the potential of Nigeria in the AI and Innovation and ICT generally demonstrates the pivotal role the country is already playing in the sector under President Bola Tinubu.

“It is, therefore, gratifying that the President is exploring partnership opportunities with Google which will focus on five key areas.

“These are: enhancing scalable cloud infrastructure, equipping the workforce with necessary skills, promoting AI innovation and research, driving cloud adoption and elevating Nigeria’s standing in the global tech landscape as a hub for innovation and AI.”

The group said the federal government’s partnership with Google fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, and would serve the interest of Nigerian youths in the ICT sector.

“The ultimate objective of the partnership will not only empower businesses and create new opportunities, but will also establish Nigeria as a major player in the global digital economy.

“This is coming against the backdrop of a recent announcement by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of a N2.8 billion support from Google to accelerate Al Talent development across Nigeria,” continued TMV.

The group added that the partnership reflected the economic diversification policy of the Tinubu administration and would also enhance productivity in several sectors, including agriculture, education, and healthcare. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

General News

Standards: COREN establishes regional committees

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By Oluwatope Lawanson/Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), has established  Regional Steering Committees (RSCs) to improve the monitoring and enforcement of engineering regulations at local levels.

The inauguration ceremony took place in Lagos on Tuesday at a stakeholders summit on “Restructuring and Reforms in Engineering for National Development”.

The President of COREN, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, inaugurated members of the committees,  stating that they would work diligently and effectively in conjunction with existing structures.

These structures, Abubakar said, would include state technical committees, the expatriate monitoring committee, and existing inspectors.

He said the new operational model, incorporating whistleblowing, engineering intelligence gathering, surveillance, an investigation panel, and a disciplinary tribunal, among others, would significantly improve the engineering landscape in Nigeria.

According to him, the committees,  comprising professionals representing diverse disciplines, academia, industry, among others, have three main areas of responsibility.

He said they would ensure engineering regulations monitoring and enforcement, carried out technical and administrative oversight,  stakeholders’ engagement and advocacy.

This, he said, would foster collaboration and improve how engineering would be governed, ensuring accountability and encouraging innovation in the field.

The President, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, emphasised the importance of stakeholder engagement for understanding public perception, initiating reforms, building stronger relationships, and promoting sustainable development.

She said the timing of the committee’s inauguration was excellent, and the fact that it was led by a former COREN president, demonstrated the association’s commitment to its success.

She expressed confidence that the  move would improve regulatory capacity and significantly advance the engineering profession in Nigeria.

Oguntala noted that engineering regulation was crucial for ensuring that the  work met global best practices and contributed to national development.

She hoped that the committee would play a vital role in protecting the profession’s integrity, promoting adherence to standards, and fostering a culture of excellence.

She highlighted the importance of capacity building for sustaining their mission, noting that continuous learning and professional growth were essential for navigating challenges and embracing innovation.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged engineers to take advantage of  opportunities created by the council’s reforms and expanded regulations.

He emphasised the vital role engineers played in nation-building, reminding them that their innovations and solutions to critical challenges had the power to transform lives and shape Nigeria’s future.

He commended COREN’s leadership and vision in restructuring and modernising the engineering sector, acknowledging their commitment to excellence.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, assured the council of the state’s continued support and collaboration in achieving shared goals.

Earlier, the Chairman, Lagos steering committee, Mr Ibikunle Ogunbayo, said the committee would collaborate with the state government to ensure that residents claiming to be engineering professionals were properly registered with COREN.

This registration process, he said, would involve identifying individuals, documenting their experience and skills, and recommending professional development opportunities if skill gaps were identified.

Ogunbayo also said the committee would address the issue of employers underpaying or mistreating engineering personnel.

He advocated fair treatment and compensation for engineering personnel, saying it was necessary for employers to properly value their engineering staff to get the best results.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

 

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