NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG inaugurates committee for effective implementation of AfCFTA
General News

FG inaugurates committee for effective implementation of AfCFTA

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By Vivian Emoni

 

 

 

The Federal Government has inaugurated a committee to ensure strong implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to strengthen trade and economic growth.

 

 

 

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, while inaugurating the AfCFTA Central Coordination Committee, in Abuja on Tuesday, said that the committee would drive Nigeria’s strategic implementation of the AfCFTA.

 

 

 

 

 

Oduwole said that the committee was made up of both government and private stakeholders, adding that AfCFTA was one of the most transformative trade and economic initiatives in Africa’s history.

 

 

 

She said that AfCFTA represented more than a trade agreement, as it was a bold vision of integration, prosperity and inclusive growth across the Africa continent.

 

“With a market value of 1.4 billion people, and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 3.4 trillion dollars, AfCFTA offers Nigeria and, indeed, the whole of Africa, an unprecedented opportunity to reposition itself in a global economy.

 

“In advancing Nigeria’s implementation of the AfCFTA, we have been acknowledged regionally and globally for this impressive prioritisation.

 

“The work ahead of us is both urgent and essential. The world is watching how Africa rises, and Nigeria must lead by example,” the minister said.

 

She said that the AfCFTA agreement was signed on March 2018, and officially came into force on May 2019, giving momentum to Africa’s already dynamic investment and trade landscape.

 

Oduwole said that the agreement was a pivotal step toward establishing a single continental market for goods and services, with goals that included facilitating investment and trade.

 

According to her, it will promote sustainable and inclusive development, adapting gender policy and structural transformation, enhancing competitiveness, and stimulating industrial development across African economies.

 

“To achieve these goals, the agreement has been structured around several protocols. The first protocol, phase one, include trading goods, trading services, and business development procedures.

 

“While the phase two protocols involved investment, intellectual property rights, competition policy, digital trade, women and youth in trade,” she said.

 

Oduwole said that the President had directed her to coordinate diverse information of the AfCFTA agreement to strengthen the important mandate and ensure coordinated strategic implementation.

 

She urged all the committees and other relevant stakeholders to be committed to ensure a strong and effective implementation of AfCFTA.

 

“We will hold each other accountable as we create a roadmap for Nigeria’s implementation, and we actually speak to see what we are going to be able to deliver, even this year.

 

“We will track transparency to make sure that what we are going to deliver will bring a great achievement,” the minister said.

 

Mrs Nonye Ayeni, the Director-General of Nigeria Exports Promotion Council (NEPC), who spoke on behalf of the committee, said that the committee members would be committed and focused, to ensure positive result.

 

Also, the Special Adviser to the Minister, Mrs Patience Okala, said that AfCFTA was aimed at creating job opportunities and to boost economy in the continent. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Vivian Ihechu

Lagos boosts urban development, infrastructure
General News

Lagos boosts urban development, infrastructure

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By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Lagos State Government is accelerating  urban development initiatives, with focus on infrastructure upgrade and economic growth.

The Special Adviser to the state governor on Electronic Geographical Information System (eGIS),  Mr Olajide Babatunde, gave the assurance on Monday.

Babatunde spoke during an inspection and assessment tour of some renovated and upgraded government facilities, including  urban development projects at Alausa, Ikeja.

He highlighted ongoing projects aimed at transforming Lagos into a 21st Century city.

These projects, he said, included the re-development of  Dosunmu Market, following a fire incident.

He also said that Gberewura Onirin Market was being transformed into a modern shopping mall that would feature anchor tenants such as ShopRite, and a cinema.

He said that Jankara Market re-development had reached approximately 60 per cent completion.

On infrastructure projects, Babatunde said that construction of a world-class international shopping centre with mixed-use facilities, including residential and hotel components, was in progress.

He said that the government was developing logistics hubs with completed facilities at Epe and ongoing constructions at Ikorodu.

Babatunde said that road construction projects were also underway.

On technological advancement, he said that the Lagos Geographic Information Service (GIS) building was almost completed, adding that there were plans to establish GIS units in various government agencies.

He disclosed that the government was automating land use charge billing and digitising land records.

 

He said that the office of the state surveyor-general was working with new auto photo and lidar images to improve the state’s mapping system.

On policy and regulation, he said that the state was developing a new urban policy and building code for sustainable urban growth.

According to him, the Lagos State House of Assembly is being asked to pass a law concerning the Lagos Geographic Information Service.

On agricultural initiatives, Babatunde said that the government was establishing agricultural hubs and settlements to enhance food security.

He noted that a four-kilometre designation for a special agricultural zone was recently  completed.

He added that the state government was re-developing its office spaces to increase workers’ efficiency.

Babatunde emphasised the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Lagos residents and fostering economic prosperity.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts of various government agencies to the success of the THEMES Plus Agenda of  the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration  in making the state a 21st Century city.

He said: “The government aims to create a fully-automated and technologically-advanced state, positioning Lagos as a centre of excellence.”

Earlier, staff members of key Lagos State Government agencies expressed  appreciation to Sanwo-Olu for his administration’s commitment to improving their work environment and prioritising their welfare.

The employees of agencies such as Lagos State Building Control Agency, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Office of the Surveyor-General of the state expressed  support for the governor’s initiatives.

They highlighted significant improvements made to their office spaces, saying that the renovations and upgrades had created a more conducive and efficient work environment.

They acknowledged the government’s determination to provide modern facilities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

 

 

NSF: Tinubu flags off Torch of Unity Movement
General News

NSF: Tinubu flags off Torch of Unity Movement

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By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting and providing an enabling environment for sports development in Nigeria.

 

The President spoke while flagging off the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival at the State House, Abuja.

 

The National Sports Festival, tagged: “The Gateway Games”, will take place in Ogun from May 16 to May 30.

 

Tinubu described sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion and economic growth.

 

The President urged the public and private sectors to actively contribute to sports development in Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure expansion, talent identification, athlete nurturing and sponsorship of sporting events.

 

He stressed that enhanced collaboration remained essential for advancing the nation’s sporting potential and ensuring Nigeria remained a dominant force in global sports.

 

The President described the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity.

 

The torch will herald the festival by travelling through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

 

“Since inception of the national sports festival in 1973, the games had been a veritable vehicle for interaction and integration of our young sportsmen and women.

 

“This festival provides a platform for all states and the FCT to showcase their sporting prowess under healthy competition, sportsmanship and friendly interaction to enhance and strengthen national unity.

 

“The games represent much more than just a competition of athletic skill; they embody the unity, strength, and resilience that define us as a nation.

 

“Every step we take together toward the festival is not merely an act of preparation for a sporting event but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national building through sports,” the President said.

 

He recognised the contributions of Nigeria’s sporting legends and paid tribute to Falilat Ogunkoya, Olympic medalist and the National Torch Bearer.

 

He commended her dedication to promoting unity and sports excellence in Nigeria and Africa.

 

Gov. Dapo Abiodun said Ogun is fully prepared to host a world-class event, welcoming over 10,000 athletes in a festival designed to set new records.

 

He noted that elite Nigerian athletes such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would grace the occasion, further reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a global sporting powerhouse.

 

“As Nelson Mandela once said, sports can change the world. They can inspire and unite people in a way that little else can.

 

“The unity torch, as it journeys across the federation, is not merely a symbol of the forthcoming games but a reflection of our shared aspirations and collective identity,” the governor said.

 

He added that as the proud host of the 22nd national sports festival, the state is not only ready to host over 10,000 athletes and officials but also to warmly welcome guests and supporters from every corner of the federation.

 

“For the first time in the history of the national sports festival, all our athletes will be housed within a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort, convenience and camaraderie.

 

“Our sporting infrastructure meets international standards, and we have left no stones unturned in delivering a festival that will set new records in organisation, participation and excellence.

 

“Our facilities are ready, our people are enthusiastic, and our athletes are prepared to showcase the best Nigerian sporting talent to the world,” he said.

 

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mr Shehu Dikko, described the festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics, adding that, for the first time, the commission had invited the best junior athletes in the country to participate under its sponsorship.

 

He said the young athletes would compete under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, marking a historic inclusion in the festival.

 

Later, at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Monday Onyeme, the deputy governor of Delta, representing Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori, handed over the Festival Torch of Unity to Dikko.

 

President Tinubu received the torch from Dikko, who in turn, passed it to Mr Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, who then entrusted it to Ogunkoya, for its journey across the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

 

 

UBA records N766.6bn profit, pays N3 final dividend
Economy/Business

UBA records N766.6bn profit, pays N3 final dividend

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has recorded N766.6 billion as profit after tax for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024.

 

This represents 26.14 per cent increase when compared to N607.7 billion posted same period of 2023.

 

This was made known in the bank’s audited financial results filed with the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) on Monday.

 

The increase is driven by the growth in the gross earnings of the bank, which rose by 53.6 per cent to N3.19 trillion.

 

The total assets of the bank also experienced a 46.8 per cent surge, climbing to N30.4 trillion.

 

In spite of global economic challenges, UBA achieved a profit before tax of N803.72 billion, showing a 6.1 per cent increase.

 

This growth has allowed UBA to propose a final dividend of three Naira per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to five Naira, subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

 

Mr Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Directo and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UBA, attributed the success to the bank’s strategic focus on earnings growth, asset quality, and market expansion.

 

“Our continued investment in our highly diversified global network allows UBA to deliver high-quality, consistent earnings.

 

“Our businesses have been able to grow product and service income and expand our deposit base, allowing the Group to increase earnings while maintaining strong spreads and margins.

 

“With total deposit increasing by 42.03 per cent from N17.4 trillion in 2023 to N24.7 trillion and total assets hitting N30.4 trillion from N20.7 trillion, the just-released results reflect broad-based growth across all core businesses.

 

“This were achieved despite prevailing macroeconomic challenges, geopolitical uncertainties, and exchange rate volatilities,” he added.

 

Alawuba highlighted the contribution of the bank’s diversified global network, with its “ex-Nigeria” operations now accounting for 51.7 per cent of group revenue, up from 31 per cent in 2019.

 

He emphasised the bank’s commitment to technology, data analytics, and product innovation to enhance customer experience.

 

Also, Mr Ugo Nwaghodoh, Executive Director of Finance & Risk Management, UBA, pointed to the triple-digit growth in net interest income and a 91.66 per cent increase in fee and commission income.

 

He also noted the bank’s strong capital adequacy ratio of 31 per cent and improved asset quality, with a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio moderating to 5.58 per cent.

 

Nwaghodoh said, “UBA Group continues to demonstrate strong capital levels, with shareholders’ funds growth of 68.4 per cent to N3.42 trillion and a solid capital adequacy ratio of 31.0 per cent.

 

“As we defensibly position the portfolio to navigate prevailing global and regional macroeconomic upheavals, asset quality improved, with NPL ratio moderating to 5.58 per cent, with strong provision coverage at 81 per cent.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Stakeholders advocate improved access to sexual reproductive services for women
Health

Stakeholders advocate improved access to sexual reproductive services for women

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By Jide Idowu

Stakeholders have called for improved access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHRs) among women and girls in the country.

 

They made the call at a two-day stakeholders strategic meeting on promoting advocacy and access to SRHRs on Monday in Osogbo.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme was organised by an NGO, Olabode Youth and Women Initiatives (OYAWIN), in partnership with Amplifying Change.

 

The stakeholders emphasised the need to remove barriers and stigma impeding free access to comprehensive sexual education, contraception and maternal healthcare among women and girls in the country.

 

Mr Moroof Olabode, the Executive Director of the NGO, said that the group had been engaging state actors and non-state actors to tackle obstacles facing young girls and women in accessing SRHRs, safe abortion and bodily autonomy as specified by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

 

Olabode added that it was on this premise that the NGO was advocating improved access to SRHRs, which include right to life, liberty, healthcare and security of women and girls in the society.

 

He said that “discrimination in allocation of resources to health services, as well as its availability and accessibility for women must be discouraged.

 

“The state of access to SRHRs in Nigeria is still below internationally acceptable standards and government efforts aimed at improving it is low.

 

“Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 5 clearly requires women to have unhindered access to contraceptive choices that are affordable and acceptable.

 

In his remarks, Dr Adeniran Adeniyi, the Secretary of the Western Sector of Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON), said there was urgent need for awareness against abortion in the country.

 

Adeniyi noted that abortion is illegal in the country.

 

Mr Olusola Olufemi, a health consultant who spoke on advocacy promotion toward improving women’s SRHRs, stressed the need to ensure comprehensive health services for women.

 

Representatives of the state’s ministries of health, justice, education, association of women lawyers, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Federation of Muslim Women’s Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), as well as community leaders also called for improved SRHRs for women in the state and the country at large.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Victor Adeoti/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Association urges swift action on gender equality
General News

Association urges swift action on gender equality

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

The President of the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN), Prof. Oluremi Olutimo, has urged urgent action to address gender disparity by empowering women economically.

 

 

 

Olutimo made this call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration held in Lagos on Friday.

 

 

 

The event, organised by UNAN in partnership with Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), aimed to promote gender inclusiveness and empower women across all sectors.

 

 

 

Olutimo emphasised the need for inclusivity, noting that society must guarantee gender equality for all, especially women, to ensure balanced national development.

 

 

 

He said the event’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, aimed to highlight strategies, resources, and initiatives that support women’s advancement and encourage their widespread implementation.

 

 

 

According to him, significant barriers to gender equality still exist, but with the right support and decisive steps, women can achieve considerable progress.

 

 

 

Supporting gender equality advocates, he noted, remains one of the most effective ways to speed up progress toward a more equitable society.

 

 

 

“If the current trend continues and nothing is done to address gender disparity, the situation will worsen and create greater problems,” Olutimo warned.

 

 

 

He cited the World Economic Forum’s prediction that true gender parity will not be achieved until 2158 if present conditions persist.

 

 

 

“This highlights the urgent need to tackle structural biases and barriers faced by women both personally and professionally,” he stressed.

 

He added that the initiative seeks to ignite a movement, increase momentum, and achieve results with the necessary urgency and determination.

 

 

 

“We live in a historic moment that requires us to abandon gradual progress and embrace swift, impactful action,” Olutimo stated.

 

 

 

He described the event as a call to action, a platform for collaboration, and a space for generating innovative ideas to empower women.

 

 

 

“Our aim is to identify barriers, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will enable rapid and lasting transformation,” he added.

 

 

 

He emphasised the power of collective action, noting that combining diverse skills and expertise can help achieve shared goals efficiently.

 

 

 

Olutimo urged women to support UNAN’s efforts to accelerate gender equality and contribute actively to global progress.

 

 

 

“One of the best ways to advance gender equality is to identify effective strategies and implement them rapidly and consistently,” he noted.

 

 

 

He reiterated that supporting advocates is crucial in driving the gender equality movement forward at all levels of society.

 

 

 

“Many organisations, from grassroots groups to large institutions, work tirelessly to support and empower women and girls.

 

 

 

“We must unite in solidarity and support these organisations’ efforts to promote women’s rights and development,” Olutimo said.

 

 

 

Similarly, Mrs Abisola Akinsete, Chair of the IWD Organising Committee, stated that men must play an active role in advancing women’s rights.

 

 

 

“True gender equality requires collaboration, with male leaders using their influence to create opportunities for women,” Akinsete explained.

 

 

 

She commended Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting women’s empowerment and inclusion through supportive policies in Lagos State.

 

 

 

“By ensuring female representation in his cabinet and agencies, Governor Sanwo-Olu sets a strong example for other leaders,” she added.

 

 

 

Dr Mrs Ijeoma Nweke, UNAN Vice President, described ‘Accelerating Actions’ as efforts to remove barriers and close the gender gap swiftly.

 

 

 

Nweke stressed that individuals, communities, private sectors, NGOs, and government must all take action to empower women.

 

 

 

“Women’s rights are human rights. Investing in women accelerates development – they are the architects of tomorrow,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG reviews national culture policy after 37 years
Culture & Tourism

FG reviews national culture policy after 37 years

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By Joshua Olomu

 

Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), says work is at final stage in the review of Nigeria’s National Policy on Culture.

 

The minister said in a statement on Friday in Abuja, that this was coming 37 years after the last review.

 

Musawa said the exercise was in collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

 

”The document was last reviewed in 1988, and has remained in draft form for over 37 years in spite of its significance in shaping Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries.

 

”A Cultural Policy Drafting Committee was inaugurated in July 2024, comprising over 100 members, divided into sub-groups to research, develop, and refine the policy framework.

 

”The committee successfully completed the virtual drafting process in December 2024, leading to the need for a physical drafting exercise to consolidate and refine the document,” she said.

 

She explained that the final stage was to get the policy ready for Stakeholders Engagement and Validation exercise before submission to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.

 

“In recognition of the urgency of the reforms, the ministry initiated the comprehensive review process, ensuring that Nigeria’s cultural framework aligns with global best practices and reflects the evolving creative economy.

 

“This initiative reflects the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to cultural development under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” she said.

 

According to her, national policy on culture serves as a legal framework guiding the preservation, promotion, and development of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

 

She noted that the review will ensure that the policy reflects contemporary trends, particularly the shift from a creative industry to a creative economy.

 

Musawa further said that the ministry’s partnership with NESG and UNESCO had been instrumental in ensuring a well-structured and inclusive review process.

 

“Through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024, NESG has provided research, technical support, and stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure that the final policy meets both national and international standards.

 

“Additionally, UNESCO’s technical assistance has played a key role in training Ministry staff and NESG representatives to align the revised policy with global best practices.

 

“The organisation has facilitated workshops and provided expert guidance to ensure that Nigeria’s policy supports the growth of the creative economy while preserving cultural heritage,” she said.

 

Also speaking, a facilitator at NESG, Ikenna Nwosu, who participated in the policy drafting process said: ”for 37 years, this policy remained unchanged despite the rapid transformation of the cultural and creative sectors.

 

“Ideally, such policies should be reviewed every five to 10 years. What we are witnessing today is a long-overdue intervention.

 

“The industry has moved far ahead of governance, and this exercise is an essential step in ensuring that policies catch up with the sector’s economic potential.

 

“The minister’s leadership in driving this review is commendable, as it will reposition our cultural sector as a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP.”(NAN)(nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Foundation calls for inclusive policies, cultural acceptance of autistic people 
Health

Foundation calls for inclusive policies, cultural acceptance of autistic people 

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Kemi Akintokun

Dr Oluwatosin Akande, the Founder of Bethel Xafe Autism Foundation has called for inclusive policies, interventions and cultural acceptance to improve the quality of life of autistic individuals.

 

 

 

Akande made the call at the Autism Awareness Conference organised by the foundation on Thursday, as part of activities to commemorate the 2025 World Autism Awareness Day.

 

 

 

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated globally on April 2 to raise awareness about autism and promote understanding and acceptance of autistic people.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is “Autism and Culture: Awareness and Acceptance.”

 

 

 

Akande said Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is not new in Africa but is often shrouded in misconception, cultural stigmatisation and inadequate support system.

 

 

 

“It remains one of the most misunderstood and marginalised conditions.”

 

 

 

The founder said the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2021 revealed that one in 100 children globally is diagnosed with autism.

 

 

 

Akande emphasised that underreporting and lack of diagnostic tools in Africa hinder accurate data on the prevalence rate.

 

 

 

She explained that a major challenge lies in cultural beliefs and misconceptions which attribute autism to supernatural forces, curses, or spiritual affliction.

 

 

 

“This conference theme underscores the intersection of culture and autism which is a crucial discourse that demands our collective attention on how traditional African beliefs influence the perception of autism and its role in fostering inclusion or perpetuating stigma.

 

 

 

“While significant progress has been made globally in understanding and accommodating individuals on the autism spectrum, many African societies remain rooted in traditional interpretations that hinder acceptance and appropriate intervention.

 

 

 

“These myths foster stigma and discrimination, preventing families from seeking medical and therapeutic assistance.

 

 

 

“This conference aims to pioneer practical solutions that ensure early diagnosis, accessibility to education, and policy inclusion.

 

 

 

“Most importantly, an Africa where every autistic child and adult is accepted, supported, and empowered,” she said.

 

 

 

Akande said the foundation was established with a commitment to support individuals and families with autism by creating a world where autism is accepted, understood, and celebrated.

 

 

 

She added that the foundation was centred on four pillars which include awareness, advocacy, support and empowerment.

 

 

 

Also, Mrs Solape Azazi, an International Behaviour Analyst emphasised the need for a policy change that would help identify early autistic disorder in children and provide an inclusive environment for them to thrive.

 

 

 

Azazi, an autism advocate who is one of the guest speakers at the conference said public enlightenment was key in addressing some of the cultural myths and stigma associated with autism.

 

 

 

She said, “We have to start to identify cases of autism from when the children are coming in for their immunisation and provide intervention.

 

 

 

“This can only be achieved if our healthcare workers are well trained, so it goes back to policies whereby we’re educating the public health workers on things to look out for.

 

“Also, policies in our education system don’t accommodate a lot of inclusivity for children with autism. Inclusion goes beyond the physical structure, things like educational materials that are suitable should be put into consideration”.

 

 

 

Also speaking, Dr Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter, tasked journalists to use their various platforms to create awareness that would foster inclusiveness and cultural acceptance for autistic individuals.

 

NAN reports that a major highlight of the conference was a video presentation by Zekwande Mathenjwa, a South African living with autism.

 

The video, titled ‘Escaping from Silence”,  highlighted some of the challenges Mathenjwa faced while growing up and how he was able to overcome them through the help of a speech therapist engaged by his parents.

 

The presentation of songs by children with autism also spiced up the conference. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

Chamber inaugurates committee on women empowerment to drive business growth
Business

Chamber inaugurates committee on women empowerment to drive business growth

391 total views today

 

By Vivian Emoni

The Abuja Chamber of commerce and Industry (ACCI) has inaugurated a joint action committee on women economic empowerment to drive policy reforms and business growth.

 

Chief Emeka Obegolu, President, ACCI, who inaugurated the committee on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the effort was to advance gender-responsive policies and eliminate barriers for Women-Owned Businesses (WoBs).

 

Obegolu said that the ACCI collaborated with policymakers, business leaders and women entrepreneurs to ensure that women entrepreneurs have equitable access to finance, market opportunities, and regulatory support.

 

The ACCI president was represented by the 1st Deputy President of the Chamber, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba.

 

“In a landmark move to foster inclusive economic development, the ACCI, in collaboration with key government agencies and development partners, inaugurated the committee on Women’s Economic Empowerment.

 

“The establishment of this committee is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a structured platform dedicated to policy reforms, advocacy and the creation of an enabling environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive.

 

“The chamber stands shoulder to shoulder with you and will provide unwavering support,” he said.

 

Obegolu reiterated the ACCI’s dedication to championing women’s economic agenda.

 

He also appealed to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for their full cooperation, as the effort would boost business in the country.

 

He expressed hope that more MDAs within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would align with this vision to support, not only ACCI women, but other women across the country.

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative in strengthening Nigeria’s economic landscape.

 

Wike was represented by Mr Simon Kato, Director of Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and Public-Private Partnership Secretariat of the FCT.

 

“This committee is not merely symbolic. It is a commitment to fostering synergy and driving actionable reforms that will create an enabling business environment for women entrepreneurs across the country.

 

“Our administration remains dedicated to advancing women’s economic empowerment and ensuring gender-responsive procurement in the FCT,” he said.

 

The FCTA Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, highlighted the secretariat’s ongoing efforts in empowering women and the progress made so far.but

 

She said this is the right time to take action, and the committee serves as a crucial pathway to defining and addressing women’s needs to ensure their economic growth.

 

“The future is not just about feminism; it is about connection. We need both genders to work together towards a holistic and locally implemented agenda.

 

“A collaborative approach is necessary to drive progress,’’ Benjamins-Laniyi said.

 

Mrs Roseline Nwosu, the Chairperson of the committee, expressed her gratitude and determination to lead it toward impactful policy reforms.

 

Nwosu outlined the committee’s key objectives, including advocating for gender-inclusive governance and institutionalising a standardised definition for WoBs.

 

She said that the objective of the committee would also driving affirmative procurement policies that enhance women’s participation in business.

 

Nwosu said that the inauguration marked a crucial step toward breaking systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive business environment for the benefits of all.

 

She was represented by Mrs Chioma Njoku, Chairperson of the ACCI Women in Business Trade Group.

 

She said that the initiative had strong backing from the Investment Climate Reform (ICR) Facility, a key development partner supporting policy innovation for women’s economic empowerment.

 

“Their continued collaboration with ACCI underscores the global recognition of women as critical drivers of economic growth,” she said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that women entrepreneurs in Nigeria have the tools and support needed to thrive. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Firm urges FG to integrate AI-driven telemedicine into healthcare
General News

Firm urges FG to integrate AI-driven telemedicine into healthcare

422 total views today

 

 

 

 

By Jessica Dogo

 

The UNICCON Group of Companies has urged the Federal Government to fully integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven telemedicine into the nation’s health system.

 

The firm on Thursday carried out a pilot of its AI-powered telemedicine software, MySmartMedic, at Galadimawa, an Abuja suburb.

 

The project is expected to help in transforming Nigeria’s healthcare system, with the company urging the Federal Government to integrate it into its hospitals management system.

 

The Chairman, UNNICON Group Prof. Chuks Ekwueme, said healthcare should be convenient, not complicated, adding that MySmartMedic would ensure access to quality medical advice in minutes to anyone, regardless of location or financial status.

 

Ekwueme said the inspiration behind MySmartMedic was to offer users and patients a robust healthcare application that would bridge the gap in accessing healthcare service in Africa.

 

He said most of the available health applications had always focused on hospital management system hence the firm was deliberate in building social impact solution for the masses on applied artificial intelligence.

 

He said this initiative would provide instant virtual consultations, smart symptom analysis, and accessible healthcare services across the country.

 

“It will also reduce cost, gap in manpower supply, increase efficiency, increase reach and reduce stress on government facilities.”

 

He said MySmartMedic will revolutionise Nigeria’s healthcare accessibility, through seamless offers, affordable, and secure way for Nigerians to speak with licensed doctors.

 

According to him, they will also be able to get e-prescriptions, and receive AI-powered health recommendations anytime, anywhere.

 

“It will be a very good initiative for government-owned hospitals to collaborate with telemedicine providers by integrating that into its hospital management system.

 

“With a doctor-to-patient ratio far below WHO recommendations, MySmartMedic’s AI system will help to analyse symptoms and recommend next steps, significantly reducing consultation times and improving diagnosis accuracy.

 

“The platform also offers instant doctor consultations via video, audio, or chat prescription refills, drug delivery for seamless medication access, specialist Access for chronic disease management, dermatology, mental health, and more.

 

“Given the shortfall in healthcare workers, health centers and funding, Telemedicine remains the easiest, fastest and affordable means of offering a certain category of health services to the rural areas.

 

“MySmartMedic aligns with Nigeria’s digital health transformation goals, aiming to support government and private healthcare initiatives in improving nationwide healthcare accessibility,” he said.

 

The Village Head of Galadimawa, Alhaji Musa Barde expressed happiness and enthusiasm about the potential of the initiative to bridge the healthcare gap in rural communities.

 

Barde said the initiative would go a long way in helping Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to cater for more people in the community.

 

“I am very happy that you are starting with our community. I will give you my full support to ensure its success,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Uche Anunne

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