NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Tinubu inaugurates national census committee, gives 3-week deadline for report
General News

Tinubu inaugurates national census committee, gives 3-week deadline for report

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday inaugurated a high-level committee on the forthcoming national population and housing census.

The President tasked the committee to submit an interim report within three weeks, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.

The President said the census was crucial for national development, accurate planning, and effective decision-making in healthcare, education, security, and economic planning.

Nigeria’s last census, which was conducted in 2006, nearly two decades ago, recorded a population of 140,431,790, with 71,345,488 males and 69,086,302 females.

Tinubu stressed the pivotal role of a technology-driven process in ensuring credible and verifiable results and the need for collaboration among all relevant agencies and stakeholders.

Underscoring the critical financing factor in the exercise, he enjoined the members to look at domestic and even international resources.

“Work with all relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. This ministry has to take charge of this because you cannot budget if you do not know how many we are.

“We expect you will touch on the technology area because the census must be technology-driven. Things have changed since the last time that we conducted this exercise.

“The enumeration has to be technology-driven with biometrics and digitalisation,” he said.

Tinubu was represented at the event at the State House, Abuja, by Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, his Chief of Staff.

Sen. Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, who chairs the Presidential Committee on Population and Housing Census, assured the President that the committee would deliver its report within the three-week deadline.

The minister recalled President Tinubu’s advice to ministers during their retreat in 2023, urging them to think creatively and work with the resources available, even under harsh economic conditions.

Bagudu noted that despite global economic challenges, Nigeria was making steady progress under President Tinubu’s leadership, citing improved foreign exchange stability and a positive growth trajectory.

He said the committee would recommend practical solutions, including strategies for mobilising domestic and international resources to fund the census.

Alhaji Muhammed Idris, the Minister of Information, also a committee member, emphasised that accurate data was critical for planning across all sectors and that a credible census was the foundation for such data.

Mr Nasir Kwarra, the National Population Commission Chairman, who will also serve as the committee secretary, said the commission had already begun preparations for the census in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

According to him, the focus has been on identifying key requirements and laying the groundwork necessary for the President to make an informed decision on the actual conduct of the census.

Kwarra assured Nigerians that the National Population Commission remained committed to ensuring a credible, technology-driven enumeration that would support effective national planning and development.

The eight-member committee also includes the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, and the Director General of the National Identity Management Commission.

Others are: the Principal Private Secretary to the President, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Operations (Office of the Chief of Staff). (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Minister advocates media literacy to combat fake news, misinformation, disinformation
General News

Minister advocates media literacy to combat fake news, misinformation, disinformation

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By Angela Atabo

 

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Tuesday advocated media literacy to combat the spread of fake news, misinformation and disinformation.

 

Idris said this at the second edition of the Spokespersons Summit, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Abuja on Tuesday.

 

He urged the spokespersons to embrace information and media literacy, a composite concept adopted by UNESCO in 2008, combining the competencies of information literacy and media literacy.

 

“Today, in a world where everyone is a spokesperson, whether a PR practitioner or a chief executive in the public and private spaces, the imperative for media literacy becomes ever more paramount.

 

“This is because it equips individuals with the tools to decipher, analyse and evaluate messages conveyed through various media channels, enabling the latitude to make informed decisions and engage with media content responsibly.

 

“Lately, due to the lack of media literacy , the inability to analyse and contextualise media content in order to verify authenticity, public officers, and indeed the general public, have become prone to the cankerworm of fake news, misinformation and disinformation.

 

“Through media literacy practices, we will continue to grow the capacity to evaluate news articles, identify potential biases, assess the reliability of sources, adapt to fact-checking and information verification mechanisms.”

 

This, Idris said, would enable Nigerians to distinguish between accurate reporting and misleading content, thus making informed decisions about news consumed and the quality of what is disseminated.

 

He advised public officers to refrain from becoming malleable to misleading content and being easily swayed by falsehoods or biased narratives.

 

Also speaking, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives, said that effective leadership communication is key to improving public perceptions of governmental institutions.

 

Tajudeen said that was why the House took concrete steps to make its legislative processes more accessible thereby demonstrating a vibrant, accessible institution committed to restoring public trust.

 

“There is significant potential for a stronger partnership between the NIPR and the National Assembly.

 

“We can work together to launch public orientation campaigns that explain how policies are created and showcase the important role of parliament and enhance public understanding and reduce negative perceptions.”

 

Tajudeen appreciated NIPR for honouring of receiving the NIPR Fellowship and pledge to uphold transparency, integrity, and ethical communication in every aspect of his role as speaker of the House.

 

In his keynote address, Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun, urged spokespersons not to be carried away by sentiments and emotions in the line of duty.

 

Osoba encouraged them to be sociable, lovable, well mannered and grounded in what they do to promote national unity and nation building.

 

The Chairman of the Occasion,Chief Edem Duke, Former Minister of Culture and Tourism and Supervising Minister of Information, described spokespersons as the most endangered persons in the public sector.

 

Duke described spokespersons as the face of organisations and urged them to stand for integrity and professionalism and be guided by ethics and synergise to come up with policies to move the profession forward.

 

The President and Chairman of Council,NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku , said the Nigeria Spokespersons Summit (NSS), brought together spokespersons and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, dissect new trends and acquire new skills.

 

Neliaku said this was important because spokesperson shapes public perception and ensures the timely delivery of the right messages to the appropriate audiences.

 

“As the regulatory body for Public Relations (PR) practice in Nigeria, The Institute has the duty of ensuring that professional best practices, integrity, and ethical standards are upheld at all times in PR practice in Nigeria.

 

“That is why NIPR is launching the Nigerian Spokespersons Charter and Practice Code(SCPC).

 

“The two core objectives of the SCPC are to: Provide an enabling instrument for spokespersons to properly understand, and be well guided by the public relations core essence.

 

“This includes building reputation, managing perceptions, cultivating goodwill, promoting trust, fostering understanding, encouraging friendship, with mutual respect, and strengthening relationship, within and outside their operating environment.

 

“It will also help principals and leaders to understand the professional functionality of their spokespersons, and measure their performances, in line with the established standards and content of this charter.”

 

Neliaku added that the summit was also aimed at conferring fellowship of the Institute on deserving and outstanding Nigerians among other activities.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Deji Abdulwahab

Saudi, Nigerian businesses explore partnerships at Lagos trade mission
Economy/Business

Saudi, Nigerian businesses explore partnerships at Lagos trade mission

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By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

A delegation of around 40 Saudi Arabian companies kicked off Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings with Nigerian companies on Tuesday in Lagos, aiming to build partnerships and strengthen trade between the two countries.

 

The event was organised by the Saudi Export Department, the Saudi trade mission to Nigeria.

It brought together businesses from a variety of sectors including construction, food and beverages, chemicals, consumer goods, furniture, and packaging.

 

Representatives of the visiting companies, who spoke in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said Nigeria’s large population of about 230 million people was a major factor in their organisations’ interest in expanding into the Nigerian market.

 

Mohammed Rafi, Export Manager at Saudi Leather Industries Factory Companies Ltd., a company with over four decades of experience in making safety boots and durable footwear, said the company’s goal in Nigeria was to form strategic partnerships and boost exports.

 

He said that  oil and gas and  construction sectors were key targets for the company’s products.

 

Rafi said that the products stood out for their quality and value.

 

He  noted Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in Nigeria as a key economic partner in Africa.

He also noted the national importance of the trade mission.

 

Imran Memon, Sales Manager at ESNAD Company Ltd., a 30-year-old Saudi manufacturer of food and flavour additives, also expressed strong interest in the Nigerian market.

 

He said that the company planned to first establish presence in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, before expanding to other Nigerian cities.

 

Memon said that his organisation’s main goal was to introduce its spice products to Nigerian consumers and grow its brand.

 

He thanked the Saudi Export Department for making the trade mission possible.

 

Khalid Saadeddin, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of SAADEDDIN, a Saudi company involved in food and real estate, also saw great potential in Nigeria’s food market.

 

He described Lagos as a vital African market, alongside cities such as Cape Town, citing Nigeria’s large population and the country’s diverse food preferences as sources of interest.

 

He acknowledged the importance of Nigerian Muslims’ annual pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, describing the pilgrimage as valuable.

 

He said that beyond exporting cheese to Nigeria, his organisation showed interest in sourcing cocoa powder and possibly chocolate from Nigeria, given its heavy involvement in chocolate production and current reliance on European and Turkish suppliers.

 

He said he was optimistic about future collaborations, especially considering the cultural and taste similarities between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

 

Meanwhile, Shadi Alziq, Sales Manager at Middle East-based Plastic Industries, which specialises in store solutions and packaging products such as plastic pallets and plates, said his company was eager to explore Nigeria’s growing market.

 

“This is our first time entering Nigeria,” he said.

He said that the organisation was attracted  to Lagos by a Saudi Export event and research that identified the city as Nigeria’s fastest-growing economically, in the last decade.

 

He said the organisation’s main goal was to understand the local market and find potential partners for its plastic product line.

 

NAN reports that the trade mission is expected to pave the way for meaningful partnerships across several key sectors, with the overarching goal of deepening economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Nigeria positions self as AI Hub with innovative launch
Science & Tech

Nigeria positions self as AI Hub with innovative launch

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By Stellamaris Ashinze

 

Nigeria has taken a significant step toward becoming a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the launch of a National AI Strategy, Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, says.

 

Tijani made this known at the launch of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Collective Industry (NAICI) in Lagos on Tuesday.

 

He said that the launch aimed at harnessing the power of AI to drive economic growth and development.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the AI Collective is a community of practice charged with supporting strategy development, and ensuring ethics and safety are central to the advancement of AI in Nigeria.

 

Tijani said: “The National AI Strategy was developed through a collaborative process involving government, academia, and industry.

 

“Nigeria’s approach to AI strategy development is unique and has garnered international recognition.

 

“The country’s model involves identifying and engaging with Nigerian researchers and experts in AI, both locally and internationally, to develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses the nation’s specific needs and challenges.”

 

According to him, the government has taken concrete steps to support AI development, including funding research projects and establishing partnerships with private sector companies.

 

“With its innovative approach and commitment to AI development, Nigeria is positioning itself as a hub for AI in West Africa.

 

“The country’s strategic location, large population, and growing economy make it an attractive destination for AI investment and innovation.

 

“Nigeria’s AI strategy will serve as a model for other African countries and contribute to the continent’s economic development,’’ he said.

 

Tijani emphasised the importance of building a community of practice around AI and encouraging collaboration between industry, academia, and government.

 

He, however, stressed that the country was not talking enough about the power that it had or could produce when everyone comes together to do things.

 

He said that there was no country in Africa where this sort of thing was happening today, adding that Nigeria was still, however, slightly behind.

 

The minister noted that everyone could see the sort of acceleration that Nigeria was leading, adding that if all continued on this path and truly understood what was happening today, then all would see that the future was bright.

 

“So, the challenge that we have is that AI is going to exacerbate the gaps and differences between nations when it comes to productivity,’’ he said.

 

He urged all stakeholders to work together to achieve the country’s AI ambitions and ensure that the benefits of the technology was shared by all.

 

“As the country moves forward with its AI strategy, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential benefits, including increased productivity, improved competitiveness, and enhanced economic growth.

 

“However, they also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, including the need for significant investment in infrastructure,” he noted.

 

Also speaking at the occasion, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Data Science Nigeria (DSN), Dr Olubayo Akanmbi, outlined the key areas of focus for the AI Collective.

 

Akanmbi said that the AI collective included research and development, sector-specific innovation, policy advocacy, and international collaboration.

 

He said that the AI Collective would provide a platform for industry players to work together to create innovative solutions, mobilise support for young startups, and create sectoral networks to drive domain-specific use cases.

 

According to him, the initiative will also focus on policy advocacy, and ensure that AI is used in an ethical and responsible manner.

 

Akanmbi emphasised the importance of international collaboration, noting that the AI Collective would tap into global centres of excellence to power the work being done in Nigeria.

 

He also announced the launch of the Diaspora Connect, a platform that would enable Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to the development of AI in the country.

 

“The AI Collective will also provide a platform for sectoral networks to drive AI adoption and sector transformation.

 

“Industry stakeholders are encouraged to volunteer as champions in various sectors, including telecoms, creative economy, real estate, government, health, agriculture, financial inclusion, and fintech,” the DSN CEO said.

 

He expressed optimism that the AI Collective would drive impact and transform various sectors of the economy, and encouraged all stakeholders to get involved and support the initiative.

 

Officially opening NAICI, the Dean of Information Systems, Lagos Business School, Dr Olayinka David-West, highlighted key aspects of Nigeria’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy.

 

David-West emphasised the need for a framework that would guide the country’s approach to AI development.

 

She said that Nigeria’s AI strategy was focused on leveraging technical innovation, local talent, and strategic collaboration to drive sustainability and economic growth.

 

According to her, the strategy is built around five key pillars: infrastructure development, building a world-class AI ecosystem, AI adoption across sectors, responsible AI development, and a robust government framework.

 

The dean emphasised the importance of using AI to drive economic growth, improve educational and healthcare outcomes, and enhance the standard of living for Nigerians.

 

David-West also highlighted the need for AI adoption in various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, finance, healthcare, education, and public sector governance.

 

She said that the strategy was bold and audacious, with 12 goals and 34 initiatives aimed at achieving economic growth, social development, and technological advancement.

 

David-West emphasised the importance of governance and responsible AI development in ensuring that no Nigerian was left behind in the process. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinka Fadare

Alumni urges stronger support for education
Education

Alumni urges stronger support for education

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By Taiye Olayemi

Victory High School (VHS) Ikeja Old Students’ Association, 1981 set, says quality education is crucial in alleviating poverty in Nigerian society.

The group urged all tiers of government to boost the education sector by increasing annual funding and reviewing the curriculum regularly.

Mr John Kayode, President of the group, stated this during the Annual General Meeting and New Year Get-Together held on Saturday in Lagos.

Kayode said: “Education plays a key role in reducing poverty and enhancing national development. Government must prioritise budgetary allocation to education.”

He added that UNESCO recommends allocating 4 to 6 per cent of a country’s GDP to education and Nigeria should adopt this benchmark.

“Between 10 and 20 per cent of the education budget should be channelled into teacher training, infrastructure, and educational equipment,” he said.

He further stated that the curriculum should be frequently reviewed by experts across sectors, focusing on 21st-century skills, especially technology.

“Well-paid, well-motivated and qualified personnel must be engaged at all levels—primary, secondary and tertiary,” Kayode stressed.

He also advocated for the implementation of genuine free education, including tuition and boarding, up to senior secondary school level nationwide.

Kayode acknowledged that the current Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme is commendable but insufficient, as it ends at junior secondary level.

He called for a holistic educational approach, urging collaboration between non-profits, corporations and religious bodies to support government efforts.

Such support, he said, should include scholarships, school meals, and other forms of assistance for students and schools.

He explained that collaboration would reduce Nigeria’s high number of out-of-school children, a longstanding challenge to the sector.

“Improving education also means ensuring security across schools nationwide,” he said.

Kayode urged community participation in school development, involving both local authorities and residents in the process.

He said communities must ensure children are in school during class hours, not roaming the streets.

“All of us must ensure our children, and those of our neighbours, receive an education. Education is not a scam,” he added.

Mr Taiwo Salami, Global President of the Alumni Association, urged members to uphold unity and advance the group’s mission.

He revealed plans to create a website for the group and renovate its global secretariat, which is in poor condition.

Chief Richard Ahonaruogho, Global Board Chairman and Patron, praised the 1981 set as “first among equals”.

He said they had shown great dedication and unity in the alumni community.

“You’ve set a high standard. The first to produce an OFR awardee and a governor. Truly admirable,” he stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Afriland Properties records N2.6bn profit for 2024
Economy/Business

Afriland Properties records N2.6bn profit for 2024

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By Taiye Olayemi

Afriland Properties Plc has achieved a profit after tax of N2.6 billion in 2024, representing 51 per cent increase from N1.73 billion recorded in 2023.

The company’s profit before tax also grew by 53 per cent to N3.70 billion from N2.4 billion posted in 2023.

Mr Emmanuel Nnorom, the Chairman of Afriland Properties, disclosed this during the 12th Annual General Meeting of the company in Lagos on Friday.

Nnorom said that the Board of Directors had proposed N865 million dividend payment for 2024, translating to 63 kobo per ordinary share.

Although, the company had earlier paid an interim dividend of N178 million in the year, which also translated to 13k per share.

According to him, the proposed dividend is 152 per cent higher than N343.5 million paid in the previous year.

“Despite the harsh business environment experienced in 2024, your company recorded an operating profit of N3.5 billion for 2024. This represents a 47 per cent increase above what was achieved in 2023.

“This is attributable to increased level of activities in project development, project management and increased rental income and re-valuation.

“The year 2024 has demonstrated our resilience and adaptability, and we remain committed to fostering sustainable growth and excellence in the real estate sector.

“Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the opportunities that 2025 holds. By staying true to our values of enterprise, execution, and excellence, we will continue to deliver value to all stakeholders,” he said.

 

He said, “During the year, the company initiated 34 projects with 10 of the projects completed at year end, while 24 are at various stages of completion across different locations in the country.”

Also speaking further on the company’s performance, Mr Azubike Emodi, the Chief Executive Officer of Afriland Properties, assured shareholders of growth generally, especially in dividend payment for the current year.

Emodi noted that the company recorded earnings per share of N1.90, refecting 51 per cent increase when compared to N1.26 paid in 2023.

He explained that the company’s total assets rose by 43 per cent, year-on-year, to N49 billion in 2024 as against N34 billion recorded in 2023.

“This growth was driven by the acquisition of new properties, fair value gains on investment properties, and a rise in the share price of the company’s equity investment.

“Shareholders’ funds rose significantly by 43 per cent to N34.93 bilion in 2024 when compared to N24.49 billion in 2023.

“This growth was driven by proft after tax for the year and gains from equity investments,” he said.

Shareholders took turns to commend the management of the company upon the announcement of the company’s 2024 financial year report

A shareholder, Mr Adewale Oyenuga, urged the company to ensure gender balance, saying only nine female were currently involved in the company’s managerial positions.

Mr Moses Onyeka commended the company for the profit and dividends declared for the 2024 financial year.

Also, Mr Gafar Ololade commended the company’s outgoing managing director, Ms Uzoamaka Oshogwe, for her outstanding performance and focus on upscaling corporate social responsibility activities.

Another shareholder, Mr Balogun Okelana, expressed his admiration for Nnorom’s leadership qualities and for being accessible to shareholders and stakeholders.

He described the company as being dividend-friendly. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Terra Academy celebrates 8,000 graduands, applauds power of creativity
Culture & Tourism

Terra Academy celebrates 8,000 graduands, applauds power of creativity

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By Joan Odafe

 

The Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) on Friday in Lagos graduated 8,000 individuals in various creative disciplines, including script writing, animation, light, and sound design.

 

The ceremony, which is the academy’s third edition, was attended by students from TAFTA centres in Lagos, Ogun, and Kano, many of whom joined the celebration virtually.

 

The event, with the theme, ‘Celebrating Creative Transformation’, is in collaboration with Mastercard Foundation.

 

The Founder and Artistic Director of TAFTA, Mrs Bolanle Austen-Peters, said the graduation was a celebration of creativity and perseverance, and also the transformative power of the arts.

 

According to Austen-Peters, TAFTA, which was inaugurated during the COVID-19 pandemic, has impacted over 30,000 individuals through its free creative training programmes.

 

She urged the graduands to put the training, tools acquired, their talents and voice to great use in transforming the world, by uplifting others and challenging injustice.

 

“Anybody else that you can think of that has put a play, a movie or any form of creativity, starts with one thought.

 

“So, it’s a blank page, and so does every great life.

 

“All of you are blank pages, but it is what you put in that page that makes you a great person later on in your life,” she said.

 

She thanked the foundation for supporting free education and investing in futures that might otherwise have gone unseen.

 

Also, Rosy Fynn, Country Director of Mastercard Foundation, praised the academy for its role in advancing inclusive and transformative creative education.

 

Acknowledging the resilience, creativity and growth of the graduands, Fynn said they were not just acquiring skills but also becoming confident change-makers in Nigeria’s booming creative economy.

 

She noted that the foundation was keen on women, diversity, and inclusion, in order to bring reality to everyone’s vision regardless of their circumstances.

 

According to Fynn, in spite of Nigeria’s music, fashion, theatre and visual arts reshaping narratives about Africa, there is an inequitable access for young women and persons with disabilities to the economy.

 

Citing a PwC report, she said: “The creative and cultural industries are projected to contribute $15 billion to Nigerian GDP by 2025.

 

“And it’s been reported that the sector has the potential to create 2.7 million jobs in 2025,” she said.

 

Speaking at the event, renowned Nigerian actor and writer, Bimbo Manuel, charged the graduands to uphold competence and integrity as they enter the creative industry.

 

Manuel, who has nearly five decades of experience in television, theatre, film, and broadcast, urged the graduands to develop their career beyond certificates.

 

“If you leave this place and you’re hoping to ride the waves of this business on the strength of your certification, I think you’ve been in self-deception.

 

“Nobody will give you any offer if you do not or are not able to prove yourself,” he said.

 

Nigerian reality TV star and actress, Bamike Adenibuyan, popularly known as Bambam, said being passionate and unapologetically authentic, would help the graduands excel in their various crafts.

 

BamBam, who is a TAFTA ambassador and a protégé of the academy’s founder, urged the graduands to give any opportunity they are given the best they have.

 

“Do not change for anybody, do not fall for peer pressure. Be unapologetically, authentically you,” she urged them.

 

The Academy Lead of TAFTA, Mr Joseph Umoibom, told NAN that the programme, which lasted for three months, was done mostly virtually by the students.

 

Umoibom said though the training was free for individuals between 18 and 35 years, there was a focus on training females, so they could be more actively involved in the technical aspects of film and theatre.

 

Highlighting the challenges of the programme, he said some of the students struggled to get data to join classes virtually, and fare for onsite training and rehearsals.

 

Umoibom urged institutions, communities and religious organisations to partner by ensuring students had access to the free trainings.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the students showcased performances, including stage plays and short films, during the event.

 

One of the graduands, Favour Udechukwu, said the programme was an opportunity, and a dream fulfilled for her.

 

According to Udechukwu, who is also an undergraduate Computer Science student, she wants an opportunity into the creative industry as a scriptwriter.

 

“I expect to be a big movie star in the next three to four years,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Olumo Rock Tourist Centre closes for renovation April 14
Culture & Tourism

Olumo Rock Tourist Centre closes for renovation April 14

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By Joy Akinsanya

 

 

 

The Ogun State Government on Friday disclosed that Olumo Rock Tourist Centre will be closed temporarily from April 14 for renovation and facelift of the centre.

 

 

 

Mr Sesan Fagbayi, the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, in a statement in Abeokuta, said the renovation was to boost tourism and preserve cultural assets across the state.

 

 

 

Fagbayi noted that the development was part of a broader commitment to revamp one of the most iconic tourist destinations.

 

 

 

He assured that the renovation would improve visitors’ experience and ensure safety measures.

 

 

 

Fagbayi explained that Olumo Rock receives over 70,000 visitors annually, necessitating a befitting outlook.

 

 

 

He apologised to tourists and the general public for the inconveniences the development might cause, adding that updates would be communicated as work progresses. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Oluwafunke Ishola

Ministry inaugurates anti-corruption unit for transparency, accountability 
General News

Ministry inaugurates anti-corruption unit for transparency, accountability 

360 total views today

Ministry inaugurates anti-corruption unit for transparency, accountability

 

 

 

By Vivian Emoni

 

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has inaugurated its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) to strengthen and enhance accountability and integrity within the public service.

 

At the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday in Abuja, Amb. Nura Rimi, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said that the initiative demonstrated the ministry’s commitment to achieving good governance.

 

Rimi said that the initiative aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda, prioritising ethical governance for national development.

 

“The ministry takes a significant step toward a corruption-free environment with the ACTU inauguration. It reaffirms its dedication to ethical standards and good governance.

 

“The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) provides strategic guidance in combating corruption.

 

“The establishment of the ACTU is a cornerstone of the Federal Government’s unwavering stance against corruption,” he said.

 

Also speaking, Dr Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the ICPC, commended the ministry for its proactive step in inaugurating the ACTU.

 

Aliyu emphasised ACTU’s critical role in upholding ethical standards.

 

According to him, the unit will promote discipline and integrity across the ministry, and also uphold principles of ethical conduct and professionalism in service delivery.

 

“This move is expected to enhance the ministry’s institutional reforms and contribute to a corruption-free environment,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Kadiri Abdulrahman

ICSAN targets N3.5bn national secretariat, seeks govt., private sector support
Economy/Business

ICSAN targets N3.5bn national secretariat, seeks govt., private sector support

370 total views today

 

By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has called for the support of government and private sector players in the building of its N3.5 billion national secretariat in Lagos.

 

Mr Francis Olawale, Honorary Treasurer, ICSAN, made the call during a news conference for a fundraiser for the building on Thursday in Lagos.

 

Olawale noted that the call for support was important because chartered secretaries and administrators held very important roles in the economic build up of the nation.

 

According to him, they are high-ranking professionals trained to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, effective operations, compliance and administration.

 

Addressing the new national secretariat, Olawale stated that while its foundation was nearing completion, the next stage was the building of the superstructure to sit on the foundation.

 

He revealed that the expected cost for completion of the building as projected by the contractors, Fortuna Engineering Ltd., was N3.5 billion.

 

Olawale stated that a fundraiser to support the institute’s project would hold on April 14.

 

He said that dignitaries which included the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, state governors and captain of industries would be present.

 

“The event will be the first of its kind towards realising one of the dreams of the founding fathers of ICSAN which is to have a befitting multipurpose national secretariat.

 

“The institute, established in 1966, is one of the leading professional bodies in Nigeria and a leading voice on corporate governance and public administration.

 

“While the plan for ICSAN’s new secretariat was conceived over the years, the actual journey began precisely on July 5, 2024 with the sod turning ceremony to formally commence the project,” he said.

 

Olawale noted that over the years, ICSAN had promoted the ideals of corporate governance through periodic issuance of policy papers and guidance materials on corporate and public administration.

 

He added that for the past 59 years, the institute had also produced seasoned professionals who had contributed and were still contributing their quota to the nation’s economic advancement.

 

According to him, many of the institute’s members are at present occupying various responsible and enviable positions across the whole gamut of Nigeria’s socio-economic life.

 

He stated that the new ICSAN secretariat, when completed, would also enhance the aesthetic quality of the Alausa business district area. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Christiana Fadare

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