News Agency of Nigeria
NIMR’s GMTP, homegrown solution to solving Nigeria’s health challenges
Health

NIMR’s GMTP, homegrown solution to solving Nigeria’s health challenges

 

 

 

By Kemi Akintokun

 

Capacity building for researchers specialising in health-related issues has been identified as a critical step in addressing Nigeria’s many health challenges.

 

These challenges include endemic infectious diseases such as malaria, Lassa fever, yellow fever, cholera, and meningitis, as well as rising rates of maternal and child mortality and non-communicable diseases like kidney and cancer-related ailments.

 

In spite various international interventions, these issues persist, renewing the call for Nigeria to develop its own homegrown solutions.

 

To bridge this gap, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) established the NIMR Foundation in 2021

 

The foundation’s mission is to build research capacity among early-career investigators, foster innovation, and promote the development of local medicines, vaccines, and technologies.

 

Its pilot programme, the Grantsmanship and Mentorship Training Programmes (GMTP) has been a “game-changer” for researchers since it began in 2022, providing them with the skills needed to tackle the nation’s unique health problems.

 

For Dr Ijeoma Ifeorah, a Virologist at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), she said her career experienced a 360 degrees turn-around after participating in the 2023 edition of the GMTP programme.

 

According to her, the programme has shaped her skills in grant writing, systematic reviews and analysis, expanded her research network and also helped her to win four major grants.

 

She said the grants included the American Association for Cancer Research and Beginner Investigation Grant for Catalytic Research, the African Research Excellence Fund Development and Fellowship Team,

 

Others were the institutional seed award from the Northwestern University, U.S. and the World Academy of Science (TWAS) in collaboration with the government of Germany awarded Ifeorah a cooperative skills that availed her the opportunity of attending a three months training in Germany.

 

“The GMTP organised by the NIMR Foundation has really helped me to not just improve my grant writing skills ability, but it has supported me in winning some grants of my own.

 

“Apart from winning these grants, I have also gained access to mentors who have impacted my career positively and access to peer mentors that I have collaborated with,” she said.

 

A Neonatologist, Dr Victor Ayeni, who participated at the 2024 edition of NIMR Foundation GMTP, said the quest to carry out top notch research that would have positive impact propelled him to apply for the programme.

 

Ayeni, who works at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ogun state, said the knowledge he acquired at the GMTP helped him to secure a grant four months after participating in the programme.

 

He said the grant, funded by Grand Challenges Nigeria, was the 2025/2026 Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Seed Grant Funding, awarded to carry out research aimed at reducing disabilities associated with birth asphyxia.

 

Birth asphyxia is a lack of blood flow or gas exchange to or from the fetus in the period immediately before, during, or after the birth process.

 

“I knew that I needed to do high-quality research to achieve a better outcome for what I have always looked forward to for children in the country. But to do that, it will require funding that is not personally available.

 

“I applied for the NIMR foundation programme; the training helped me to refine my thoughts and how best to compose the thoughts in a way to win funding for research.

 

“Part of what I also learnt was personal development goals and this prepared me ahead when the call for the grant was announced and I got the grant,” he said.

 

A participant at the just concluded 2025 edition of the GMTP, Dr Chioma Tolulope, a Research Fellow at NIMR, said the programme was an eye opener for her.

 

Tolulope said that testimonies from previous participants on how the programme impacted their research skills made her apply for the GMTP.

 

“This programme gave me great insight and the opportunity I needed to enhance my skills especially in the area of systematic reviews and manuscript writing.

 

“I am glad I was among the few selected out of the hundreds of applicants across the country and I look forward to research that will have positive and direct impact,” she said.

 

As the foundation continues to engage researchers on capacity building, the government must also ensure a sustained investment to strengthen the nation’s capacity for homegrown solutions to address the health challenges of Nigerians. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

100 MMA fights to feature at AFC World Series in Lagos
Sports

100 MMA fights to feature at AFC World Series in Lagos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

 

No fewer than 100 Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fights will feature in this year’s AFC World Series Championships, scheduled for Sept. 11-Sept. 14 in Lagos.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the championship, sanctioned by the Nigerian MMA Federation, marks a historic milestone for the sport’s growth in Nigeria.

 

 

 

Founded by entrepreneur Raad Aswani, the AFC World Series is the first private African promotion officially recognised as a continental ranking and scoring platform for MMA.

 

 

 

The fights are endorsed by the Nigerian MMA Federation (NMMAF), National Sports Commission (NSC), Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) and the African MMA Confederation (AMMAC).

 

 

 

Aswani said the milestone firmly positions Africa on the global combat sports map, with Nigeria poised to play a defining role in shaping its future.

 

 

 

“As an individual, I have always wanted to follow the footsteps of my grandfather, Ansani, who was a renowned trader in Nigeria.

 

 

 

“I want to contribute to sports and entertainment development. That inspired me to introduce this idea, tagged the ‘Next Contenders Programme and Beyond’,” Aswani said.

 

 

 

According to him, AFC is rewriting African combat sports by creating champions inside the cage while nurturing leaders, innovators, educators, and entrepreneurs outside it.

 

 

 

Aswani revealed that winners in Lagos will receive medals directly from the NSC Chairman and the Director General, symbolising government’s strong support for the initiative.

 

 

 

He stressed that AFC represents more than sports promotion, describing it as a social movement powered by partnerships with government, federations, and academies.

 

 

 

“The AFC is empowering youths with opportunities from local gyms to international arenas, offering alternatives to crime, gangs and unemployment,” Aswani stated.

 

 

 

He added that AFC is also developing hybrid academies as training and educational hubs, driving gender inclusion and promoting wellness through grassroots programmes.

 

 

 

Similarly, NMMAF President Henry George said the event is sanctioned and supervised to ensure compliance with international rules, scoring systems and safety standards.

 

 

 

He explained that MMA in Nigeria now has a standard guide ensuring safety and providing a ranking system for selecting national representatives.

 

 

 

“Our role is to supervise, maintain standards in scoring, and guide fighter progression from amateur to professional levels,” George said.

 

 

 

He noted that athletes would require a minimum of 10 fights before turning professional, with medical, regulatory, and safety standards strictly maintained. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Fans express worry as Nigeria struggle in FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Sports

Fans express worry as Nigeria struggle in FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Chiamaka Iheanacho

 

 

Some football enthusiasts on Wednesday expressed concern over Nigeria’s FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign after failing to beat South Africa for maximum points.

 

 

 

They told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the result has significantly reduced Nigeria’s chances of securing qualification for the tournament.

 

 

 

Damilola Idris, a Data Analyst and football fan, described the 1-1 draw against South Africa as disappointing, stressing it has greatly weakened Nigeria’s qualifying prospects.

 

 

 

He added that while qualification remained possible, it would now require extraordinary outcomes. Nigeria must defeat both Lesotho and Benin in their remaining fixtures.

 

 

 

“We now hope South Africa will beat Rwanda, who remain a serious threat. Nigeria must also secure a superior goal difference in upcoming matches,” he said.

 

 

 

Similarly, Alex Iheanacho, another football enthusiast, admitted Nigeria’s last result placed the team in a very difficult position.

 

 

 

He, however, noted that South Africa risked a three-point deduction for allegedly fielding an ineligible player earlier in the campaign, which could improve Nigeria’s chances.

 

 

 

“Nigeria’s dream of qualifying depends on extraordinary results. We must win our last two fixtures, while South Africa must completely falter,” Iheanacho said.

 

 

 

He added that FIFA’s handling of South Africa’s ineligible-player case could alter the standings, though the matter remained speculative at present.

 

 

 

“Above all, Nigeria’s qualification hopes hang by a thread and would require near-miraculous outcomes,” he said.

 

 

 

Dehinde Ogunbiyi of the Lagos State Sports Council told NAN that the match was intense, with Bafana Bafana firmly holding their ground.

 

 

 

“We played well but failed to secure the result we needed. Women’s football often shows the difference, as the Super Falcons usually deliver,” he said.

 

 

 

Ogunbiyi stressed the need for Nigeria to return to the drawing board and put in the required work ahead of their remaining fixtures.

 

 

 

“We must continue to hope for the best, even though the odds are not in our favour,” he added.

 

 

 

He lamented Nigeria’s repeated struggles in qualifying campaigns, noting that lessons rarely seem to be learnt from past experiences.

 

 

 

“We must secure maximum points against Lesotho and Benin with convincing wins, ensuring a strong goal difference that could prove crucial,” Ogunbiyi said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NPA cautions 4 terminal operators over environmental pollution
Economy/Business

NPA cautions 4 terminal operators over environmental pollution

 

 

By Olamide Akintunde

The Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) has issued warnings to four terminal operators over environmental pollution within the facility.

The port’s Complex Manager, Mr Debo Lawal, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday.

Describing port management as a challenging yet rewarding responsibility, he highlighted the daily operational, environmental, and security demands that required readiness and solution-oriented approaches.

 

He explained that managing the port involved addressing a wide range of operational, emotional, and organisational issues, emphasising that no challenge was insurmountable with proper preparation and solutions.

 

In line with efforts to promote environmental sustainability, Lawal disclosed that four terminals had recently received warning letters for breaching their lease agreements and contributing to pollution within the Apapa Port Complex.

 

“For example a factory polluting a neighbouring terminal, which management is resolving by directing the factory to adjust its funnel to reduce harmful emissions.

“Physical inspections are conducted to verify environmental complaints, as NPA emphasises the need for clean terminals and strict compliance with environmental regulations,” Lawal said.

He confirmed that sanctions existed for environmental breaches but said that initial engagement took priority, with specific directives given and deadlines set before penalties were imposed.

According to him, instructions include readjusting factory funnels and installing combustion controls, aligning with international best practices among others.

On security, Lawal stated that collaboration existed between the security department and port police, maintaining constant patrols within the port system and waterways.

He added that management recently provided additional water vehicles to the marine police, strengthening security operations ahead of the busy September–December season. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Nigeria’s economic fortunes depend on data-backed reforms-Afrinvest MD
Economy/Business , General News

Nigeria’s economic fortunes depend on data-backed reforms-Afrinvest MD

 

 

 

 

By Olawunmi Ashafa

An Investment banking group, Afrinvest, has called for research-driven reforms to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential beyond the trillion-dollar gross domestic product milestone.

Its Managing Director, Dr Ike Chioke, made call at the company’s 30th anniversary celebration and the unveiling of the 20th edition of its flagship Banking Sector Report (BSR) on Tuesday in Lagos.

The theme of the report is “ACT-BOLD: Beyond a Trillion-Dollar Economy”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the report outlines seven priority sectors, agriculture, creatives/tourism and hospitality, technology, banking & finance, oil and gas, logistics, and domestic manufacturing, as accelerators of growth that can reposition Nigeria as a globally competitive economy.

Chioke said the company’ 30-year journey had been about producing ideas that shape policy and guide stakeholders through economic turbulence.

“Our research has consistently shown that Nigeria’s fortunes are inseparable from global tides.

“From the banking reforms of the early 2000s, to the 2008 financial crisis, the 2016 recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen that clarity, innovation, and bold action remain the most reliable drivers of recovery and growth,” Chioke said.

He noted that past editions of the BSR had spotlighted critical turning points.

He said this includes the 2009 banking sector collapse, the 2017 recovery phase titled “Nigeria Reopens for Business”, and the 2022 warning, “Brace for Impact,” which foreshadowed subsidy and FX reforms later implemented by President Bola Tinubu.

“This 20th edition is both a call to action and a framework for Nigeria’s future.

“If we harness these seven industries strategically, Nigeria can move beyond short-term fixes and position itself as a trillion-dollar-plus economy, just like India and Indonesia have done,” Chioke added.

The event drew policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders, who praised Afrinvest’s consistency in providing research-driven solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges.

Also, Chairman of Afrinvest, Mr Godwin Obaseki, represented by Prof. Osita Ogbu, Development Economist and former presidential Economic Adviser, said the company’s three-decade journey reflected a legacy of resilience, innovation, and transformative impact in Nigeria’s financial markets.

According to him, the company has not only facilitated landmark acquisitions but also built innovative investment instruments that continue to redefine access to opportunities for clients.

He highlighted some of Afrinvest’s landmark transactions to include the UBA and Standard Trust Bank merger in 2004, the 350 million eurobond issued by GTBank in 2007, and Dangote Cement’s N2.1 trillion listing in 2010, the largest in the history of the Nigerian Exchange.

“Our legacy is not just in numbers but in impact. We have supported governments, facilitated investments that built infrastructure, and contributed to the growth of international markets.

“With courage, clarity, and creativity, Afrinvest is ready for the next chapter, confident that together, we can go beyond limits,” the chairman added.

NAN reports that the event drew regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders, who commended the company for three decades of thought leadership and its solution-driven approach to the nation’s economic transformation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

FG reiterates commitment to expand opportunities for women
Gender

FG reiterates commitment to expand opportunities for women

By Abiodun Lawal

The Federal government has reiterated its commitment to restore dignity, expand opportunities and ensure that women in the country thrive.

 

 

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, stated this on Tuesday during a working visit to Ogun and a brief stop-over at Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), Abeokuta.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim explained that a lot of women programmes had been designed under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

She noted that the federal ministry of women affairs and social development had embedded the vision in its Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programmes.

She emphasised that the initiative would cater to all, leaving no woman, child, or vulnerable person behind.

The minister highlighted the importance of creating a society where women and girls can live safely, valued, and empowered.

According to her, the SARC in the state is a shining example of how vision translated into practice.

“It is not just a facility; it is a refuge of healing, dignity, and hope. Here, survivors receive medical care, psychosocial support, and the assurance that they are not alone.

“This model shows what is possible when government, partners, and communities work together.

“As we extend immediate support to survivors today, we also look to the future. Working hand in hand with the state government, civil society, and development partners,” she said.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun for displaying example in culture, governance, innovation and commitment to women’s advancement.

Earlier, Mrs Adijat Adeleye, Ogun Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, said that the SARC and the women development centre were deliberately cited side by side.

“We believe that healing must go hand in hand with rebuilding. At the SARC, survivors come in with pain, but they do not remain defined by it.

“Here, wounds are treated, tears are wiped, voices are restored, and shattered lives begin the journey to wholeness again.

“Supported and equipped through the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) with World Bank assistance, this center boldly declares that violence will never have the final say in our state,” she said.

Adeleye noted that at the women development center, a victim could pick up her dignity, learn a trade, gain financial literacy, embrace entrepreneurship, and prepare for a new life of independence. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited Folasade Adeniran

Tech company says GITEX Nigeria opened global window for startups
Science & Tech

Tech company says GITEX Nigeria opened global window for startups

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Funmilola Gboteku

 

A Nigerian startup, Meetbox Africa, says its participation in the just-concluded GITEX Nigeria 2025 in Lagos has provided the company with exposure, learning opportunities and access to investors that can shape its growth.

 

 

 

In an interview with newsmen, Mr Kehinde Awoyinfa, Co-founder of Meetbox Africa, described the exhibition as a launchpad for young companies eager to prove their relevance in the digital economy.

 

 

 

“GITEX Nigeria was a classroom and a marketplace rolled into one. We saw startups, investors and global giants all under one roof.

 

 

 

“For us, it was a chance to learn, compete and be noticed,” Awoyinfa said.

 

 

 

He explained that beyond showcasing products, the company held meetings with Microsoft Cloud partners, Internet Service Providers and venture capitalists.

 

 

 

“Some of those conversations may shape how we scale in the coming months,” he added.

 

 

 

Awoyinfa noted that Nigerian startups often struggled with access to funding and markets.

 

 

 

He added that platforms such as GITEX, bridge the gap by connecting local firms with global distributors, policy makers and investors without the cost of travelling abroad.

 

 

 

“For Meetbox, the expo also highlighted how local firms could hold their own on a global stage.

 

 

 

“We displayed our conferencing systems integrated with Microsoft Teams and Zoom, but it was our playful branded robot dog, ‘K9 the Ultimate,’ that drew the biggest crowds.

 

 

 

“K9 danced, shook hands and guided visitors to our booth. It was our way of standing out in a sea of innovation and sparking conversations about what we do,” he said.

 

 

 

He, however, stressed that the most valuable aspect of GITEX was the knowledge exchange.

 

 

 

Awoyinfa said the panel discussions and policy sessions gave insights into where the ecosystem was headed, especially in artificial intelligence, cloud, fintech and cybersecurity.

 

 

 

He emphasised that GITEX helped Nigerian startups to build confidence and visibility.

 

 

 

Awoyinfa noted that the country’s role as a continental tech hub would be strengthened if more local innovators consistently took advantage of such global-facing platforms. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

Foundation harps on training for self-discovery, development
General News

Foundation harps on training for self-discovery, development

 

 

By Uchenna Eletuo

 

The South Africa-based Training for Transformation (TNT) Foundation, on Tuesday, said that training remained key to self-discovery and development and should be given priority attention.

 

 

 

The foundation made the assertion at a workshop it organised in Festac Town, Lagos State, on Tuesday.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was aimed to sensitise the participants about the operations of the foundation and enlist people for the foundation’s forthcoming training on environmental economy.

 

 

 

The Lead Facilitator, Ms Talent Nthambi, said that TNT was aimed to provide individuals with knowledge and activities that would develop their minds to take advantage of opportunities in their environments.

 

According to her, Africa is blessed with resources to cater for its people but has not taken full advantage of the endowment.

 

“Hunger is prevalent in the society because people lack the knowledge to exploit their environments and make informed choices that can foster the common good,” she said.

 

Ms Ese Ajuyah, also a facilitator, said that the training was tailored to make people changed agents, appeal to their minds to do things right and stir reforms in their communities.

 

The Founder of the Sisters City, Owo, Ondo State, Mrs Olutosin Adebowale, who has benefitted from TNT training, said that transformation was a process and not a project.

 

“Knowledge has to be constantly updated to suit the times.

 

“TNT trains people to begin with solutions to issues at the family unit, such as domestic violence, bulling and cultural inhibitions that deprived people especially women their rights.

 

“After that is the community phase which raises conversations within informed nucleus to identify structures that hinder societal progress and deal with such.

 

 

 

“It then brings to the fore, matters of public concern and proffer solutions.” (NAN)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

 

 

Computer society tasks new executives on innovativeness
Science & Tech

Computer society tasks new executives on innovativeness

 

 

 

 

 

By Uchenna Eletuo

 

The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) has inaugurated its new national executives with a charge to be innovative and focused.

 

The executives include the President, Mr Muhammad Aliyu-Sirajo and Deputy President, Mr Charles Onyeukwu.

 

At the inauguration held at the organisation’s National Secretariat in Lagos on Thursday, the immediate past President, Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria, Mr Bimbo Abioye, said that innovativeness would take the organisation to greater heights.

 

He urged the executives to be focused and conceive ideas, programmes and projects that would transform Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.

 

Abioye urged indigenous computer firms to scale up operations, compete favourably with their foreign counterparts, and dominate the Nigerian market.

 

A former NCS President, Mr Ezichi Samuel, urged the new executives to borrow from the experiences of their predecessors to forge ahead seamlesssly.

 

Responding, the new President, Mr Muhammad Aliyu-Sirajo, promised that the executives would work in unity in the interest of the body and the entire Nigeria.

 

Aliyu-Sirajo addded, “Strict adherence to professional ethics will uplift the operations of the organisation.”

 

He said that the new executives would drive innovation and development in Nigeria’s ICT sector.

 

“United we can cause changes in the economy,” Aliyu-Sirajo said.

 

He commended the former executives for sacrifices that helped in building a vibrant NCS. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Ijeoma Popoola

Lagos residents share personal stories behind piercings, tattoos
Entertainment

Lagos residents share personal stories behind piercings, tattoos

By Omolola Olukoga

In the world today, body piercing has become more than just a fashion, style and trend.

Piercings of the nose, navel, tongue, nipple and belly button, for most people, are forms of self expression, rebellion or healing from past experiences.

Some have faced backlash for their piercings, with some employers and individuals viewing them as unconventional or unprofessional.

However, many young people see piercings as a way to express themselves and showcase their individuality.

Behind every stud or ring lies a personal story waiting to be heard.

Miss Pamela Oko, a 20-year-old student, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that she loved the way her body piercings looked on her and the beauty they portrayed.

“It makes me feel comfortable.”

Also, Bimbo Adeola, 23, a sales girl, told NAN that she got piercings because they looked cute.

“It enhances my appearance and that is why I embrace the trend,” she said.

For others the story is deeper than style.

A 25-year-old up-and-coming musician, Jonn Steven, also known as “Siifa”, said body piercing was a trend in the music industry both locally and internationally.

“I just wanted to know what the pain felt like for me.

“I was told by my manager to get piercings and tattoos, plus plating of hair to look trendy, so I did that,” he said.

He noted that it served not only as a vice of beauty or fashion but also to differentiate what one does.

“Once anyone sees you in all that, they would know what you are into,” he said.

Miss Amira Ogundele, 29, a hairdresser and make-up artist, said her favourite piercing was the nose ring.

“It serves as a confidence booster, because it makes me feel confident about myself and my abilities.

“What a lot of people see is just a trend, in reality it can be of big importance to one,” she said.

A 33-year-old music producer, Peter Odibo, said the perception of piercings differs from one person to another.

Odibo, however, argued that body modification did not influence how people were perceived socially or professionally.

“I disagree to this statement. No, it does not influence the social or professional view,” he said.

Mr Eno Bassey, a 34-year-old teacher, confirmed that piercings had affected his sister’s professional relations with people.

“The first place she got a sales job, she was told to remove them, she rejected the job.

“Second one, her madam grumbled but let her be but passed comment most times about it,” he said.

Bassey said piercings were a personal choice of individuals, adding that they should not affect or stand as a barrier to building friendships, or career opportunities.

“Even in formal settings like school competitions or job interviews, piercings should not be a disadvantage.

“One can be of great value and still have a piercing.

“One can also be intelligent and outspoken and still have a piercing,” he said.

Music manager and social commentator, Alex Uwem, said looking at the societal view toward people with piercings, more work was needed to reorient such people.

Uwem noted that body modifications, including tattoos and piercings, were not just about decorations.

“It is about choice, confidence, pain, managing situations, and self expression.

“For some it is indeed fashion but for others it is therapy.

“For many, it is a personal story carved beneath the skin,” he said.

He cautioned against stigmatising people with piercings and tattoos, adding that critics should encourage a better and deeper conversation instead.

“Words can cause an emotional scar on the people concerned and cause them to decide to withdraw from their once fragile social state of mind,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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