NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
PETAN: Driving local content partnerships, sustainable energy transition

PETAN: Driving local content partnerships, sustainable energy transition

204 total views today

 

 

 

By Yunus Yusuf (News Agency of Nigeria)

 

Africa stands at a critical juncture in the global energy landscape, rich in hydrocarbon reserves but burdened by energy poverty, foreign dependency, and the pressures of a shifting global energy paradigm.

 

At the forefront of Africa’s strategy to address these issues is the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), a consortium of indigenous oilfield service companies leading a continental push toward local content development and strategic energy partnerships.

 

Founded in 1990, PETAN has evolved from advocating equitable opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector to exporting oilfield expertise across Africa.

 

Its blueprint—built on indigenous capacity and regional collaboration—offers a practical path to energy independence and sustainable economic growth.

 

As more African nations discover oil and gas resources, the PETAN model is increasingly seen as a template for success.

 

In spite of persistent challenges such as regulatory uncertainty, limited access to finance, and technology gaps, PETAN remains resolute.

 

Its presence at global conferences like the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston has significantly amplified Nigeria’s footprint in the global energy space.

 

Through the Nigerian Pavilion at OTC 2025, PETAN showcased indigenous capabilities, fostered international partnerships, and reinforced its commitment to local content development.

 

With over 70 Nigerian participants and 30 Nigerian companies participating, the event marked a milestone in the country’s drive to position local firms on the global stage.

 

Mr Emeka Ene, a former PETAN Chairman, described the significance of the platform.

 

Ene said: “The OTC pavilion has become a viable platform for exhibitors to showcase their innovations and attract investment into the Nigerian oil and gas industry.”

 

According to PETAN’s Publicity Secretary, Dr Innocent Akuvue, this visibility underscores Nigeria’s growing technical capacity and PETAN’s role in transforming policy into tangible outcomes.

 

“PETAN has been instrumental in translating the Local Content Act from policy to practice.

 

“We’ve moved from rhetoric to real capacity development; training engineers, fabricators, and service providers who now compete globally, ” Akuvue said.

 

He said that PETAN member companies had invested significantly in technology transfer, infrastructure, and training.

 

“From developing fabrication yards to certifying technicians, their efforts have created jobs, retained in-country value, and enhanced technical resilience,” he added.

 

Chairman of PETAN, Mr Wole Ogunsanya, emphasised that local content is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a business imperative.

 

Ogunsanya said, “We see local content not just as compliance but as a strategy for sustainable growth.

 

“It’s about nurturing ecosystems where local innovation thrives and drives Africa’s energy future.”

 

Ogunsanya highlighted PETAN’s broader continental ambitions.

 

He said that through engagement in international forums like OTC and African Energy Week, PETAN had emerged as a pan-African voice for indigenous capacity.

 

“In 2023, the association hosted the inaugural African Local Content Roundtable in Lagos, drawing stakeholders from Ghana, Angola, Uganda, and Mozambique,” he explained.

 

Ogunsanya noted, “Discussions centred on harmonising local content frameworks, regional training standards, and cross-border partnerships.

 

“One notable outcome has been PETAN’s technical support in Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, where Nigerian firms now collaborate with local companies to deliver oilfield services—strengthening intra-African cooperation and reducing dependence on foreign contractors.”

 

The chairman said that as the global energy landscape transitions, PETAN was aligning with the future.

 

He added that while hydrocarbons remain vital for Africa’s development, PETAN was actively investing in gas monetisation, renewable energy integration, and emission reduction technologies.

 

Ogunsanya stressed, “Gas is our transition fuel.

 

“Through investments in LPG distribution, flare reduction, and gas processing, PETAN companies are enabling cleaner energy solutions while driving inclusive growth.”

 

Ogunsanya said that to support this shift, PETAN gad been working closely with the African Energy Chamber and the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO) to shape balanced energy policies that address both sustainability and development.

 

“Our mission is to build an Africa where energy drives development, not dependency.

 

“And we’re doing it—one partnership at a time,” Ogunsanya affirmed.

 

An energy law expert, Dr Ayodele Oni of Bloomfield Law Practice, commended PETAN’s regional approach:

 

“PETAN understands that Africa’s energy sustainability depends on integration.

 

“They’re not just promoting Nigerian capacity but advocating for a continental ecosystem where African companies support African projects,” he explained.

 

**If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)**

First Lady inaugurates 100-bed hospital in Imo

First Lady inaugurates 100-bed hospital in Imo

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By Salif Atojoko

 

Sen. Oluremi Tinubu has inaugurated a 100-bed Mother and Child Centre at Awo-Omamma General Hospital near Owerri, Imo.

 

The state-of-the-art facility, constructed by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), and named the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Mother and Child Centre, was inaugurated on Saturday.

 

The inauguration was performed on behalf of the First Lady by Hajia Nana Shettima, the Wife of the Vice President, Mr Desmond Utomwen, Special Adviser, Publicity and Strategic Communication, OSSAP-SDGs, said in a statement on Sunday.

 

She said that the inauguration was a critical milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

 

“This centre reflects the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to delivering quality healthcare to Nigerians, particularly women and children.

 

“We must continue to prioritise maternal and child healthcare as a foundation for a healthier and more prosperous society,” she said.

 

She called on women and families in the surrounding communities to take full advantage of the healthcare services offered at the centre and to take ownership of the facility to ensure its sustainability.

 

She also extended gratitude to health workers, particularly nurses and midwives, who continue to play a vital role in improving maternal and child outcomes across the country.

 

The First Lady further commended the efforts of Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, and his wife, Chioma Uzodimma, for their dedication to the wellbeing of the people.

 

She praised the leadership of Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, for spearheading the implementation of impactful, pro-poor interventions across the nation.

 

The newly inaugurated hospital, sited within the Awo-Omamma General Hospital, features a comprehensive suite of healthcare amenities.

 

They include private and general wards, an operating theatre, recovery rooms, consultation units, scanning rooms, adult and paediatric intensive care units, a laboratory, ultrasound machines, emergency carts, delivery kits, and vacuum extractors.

 

Gov. Uzodimma, in his remarks, hailed the project as a timely and strategic intervention that addressed critical gaps in the state’s health sector.

 

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his leadership and for recognising the health and dignity of mothers and children as national priorities.

 

“Naming this centre after Sen. Oluremi Tinubu is not only a well-deserved honour but a lasting reminder of her compassion, advocacy, and service to women and vulnerable groups.

 

“This facility is a major boost to our state’s integrated health infrastructure plan and will significantly reduce maternal and child mortality,” he said.

 

Orelope-Adefulire noted that the 100-bed facility is one of several built under the OSSAP-SDGs programme to strengthen sub-national healthcare systems.

 

She stressed that the hospital was conceived and delivered as part of the SDGs’ commitment to ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality health services.

 

“This centre is a testimony to the First Lady’s enduring commitment to the welfare of mothers, children, and vulnerable populations, an ethos she upheld even before assuming her current office,” she said.

 

Highlighting findings from the Nigeria SDGs Progress Report 2024, she lamented that outcomes for maternal and child health remain below target.

 

She called for intensified advocacy to ensure pregnant women attend antenatal and postnatal clinics and that children receive timely vaccinations.

 

“This facility will commence full services within the next two to three months and is equipped to deliver quality care at all levels.

 

“We urge Imo State and its residents to embrace this intervention and make judicious use of it in a sustainable manner,” she said.

 

Orelope-Adefulire announced that her office would return to Imo in June for an empowerment initiative targeting women in the South-East region.

 

She reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening federal-state collaboration in delivering SDG-aligned projects.

 

The Imo State Government provided the land for the project, underscoring the collaborative effort between federal and state authorities.

 

The initiative is a response to existing healthcare challenges and a step toward a future where every mother and child can live healthier, more dignified lives. (NAN)

 

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

 

 

UTME: NGO blames dismal performance on poor digital literacy   

UTME: NGO blames dismal performance on poor digital literacy  

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

The Regalo Hope Foundation (RHF), a non-profit organisation, had blamed poor performance of candidates in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) on poor digital literacy.

 

The Founder of RHF, Dr Chinenye Onuorah, made the blame in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday.

 

Recall that more than 1.5 million out of 1.9 million candidates for the UTME organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) scored below 200.

 

A breakdown of the results released by JAMB showed that 983,187 candidates (50.29 per cent) scored between 160 and 199, while 488,197 candidates (24.97 per cent) scored between 120 and 139.

 

Onuorah, who expressed displeasure at the performance, said that there was an urgent need to exposure students adequately to tools for digital literacy.

 

“What this report reveals is not just a failure of preparation, it is also a failure of responsibility.

 

“It is what happens when young people are left to figure out digital literacy without the tools, exposure or training they need to succeed,” she said.

 

She called for public/private collaborations to empower students with digital literacy to improve their performances.

 

The RHF founder said it was important to create an enabling environment to get students prepared for such an examination to increase their success chances.

 

“We need to stop talking about the youth and start building with them,” she added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

‘Seven Doors’ sweeps 11th AMVCA’s top honours

‘Seven Doors’ sweeps 11th AMVCA’s top honours

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By Babajide Awoyinfa

 

“Seven Doors”, an historical drama series by Femi Adebayo, has triumphed at the 11th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), winning three major awards, solidifying its standout status in Nollywood.

 

Femi Adebayo won Best Lead Actor for his portrayal of Adedunjoye, the king in the series.

 

Chioma Chukwuka also claimed the Best Lead Actress award for her role as Amaka, Adedunjoye’s wife.

 

The series also won Best Music/Score.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 11th AMVCA took place on Saturday at the Eko Hotels, Lagos.

 

This prestigious event celebrates excellence in African film and television, bringing together the continent’s brightest stars and industry professionals.

 

The awards ceremony also celebrated veterans Sani Mu’azu and Nkem Owoh with the Lifetime Achievement Awards.

 

Director Kayode Kasum took home the Trailblazer Award for his fresh, genre-defying impact on the industry.

 

Speaking at the event, Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, at MultiChoice, emphasised the AMVCA long-term commitment to the Nollywood industry.

 

Tejumola noted that the event was a sustainable project that has been evolving over the years to promote the industry’s growth.

 

“We are committed to capacity building, evolving the industry, producing and distributing the best local content available on the continent.

 

“The AMVCA continues to evolve every single year, and this edition is special as it spotlights younger artistes who will take the industry forward in the next 10 years,” Tejumola said.

 

According to Tejumola, the key to keeping viewers engaged is to create content that is relatable and resonates with them.

 

“The AMVCA has also had a significant impact on the careers of young artistes, with over nine billion Naira invested in the awards over the past 11 years.

 

“Additionally, the MultiChoice Talent Factory provides young filmmakers with a one-year development programme to hone their skills,” she said.

 

Other winners are: *Best Supporting Actor*: Gabriel Afolayan (Inside Life).

 

– *Best Supporting Actress*: Mercy Aigbe, for “Farmer’s Bride”.

 

– *Best Unscripted M-Net Original*: Nigerian Idol (Kassim SSulaimana and Anneke De Ridder).

 

– *Best Scripted M-Net Original*: My Fairytale Wedding (Chinenye Nworah & Taiwo Adebayo).

 

– *Best Digital Content Creator*: Iyo Prosper Adokiye, for “We Listen, We Don’t Judge – Bible Edition.

 

– *Best Documentary*: Dundun (Ifeoluwa Fatogun & Ebi Atawodi).

 

– *Best Short Film*: Jide Jblaze Oyegbile.

 

– *Best Cinematography*: Leo Purman, for “The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos”.

 

– *Best Editing*: Tongai Furusa, for “Inkabi”.

 

– *Best Sound Design*: Michael Botha, Olaosebikan Okonrende & Dil Chike Ajufo, for “Suspicion”.

 

– *Best Art Direction*: Soliu Badu Noutical & Ayanmo Yakub, for “Lisabi: The Uprising”.

 

– *Best Makeup*: Hakeem Onilogbo, for “Lisabi: The Uprising”.

 

– *Best Costume Design*: Adedamola Adeyemi, for “Christmas in Lagos”.

 

– *Best Writing in a TV Series*: Abel Mutua Musyoka.

 

– *Best Writing (Movie)*: Blessing Uzzi for “Freedom Way”.

 

– *Best Indigenous Language (West Africa)*: Adedimeji Lateef & Adebimpe Oyebade Adedimeji.

 

– *Best Indigenous Language (East Africa)*: Abel Mutua Musyoka.

 

– *Best Indigenous Language (Southern Africa)*: Cosmas Ng’andwe. (NAN)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Ex-govs Aliero, Mu’azu donate N40m to revamp dilapidated ABU infrastructure

Ex-govs Aliero, Mu’azu donate N40m to revamp dilapidated ABU infrastructure

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By Angela Atabo

 

Former Kebbi State Governor, Sen. Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) and former Bauchi State Governor, Alh. Ahmadu Mu’azu, have donated 40 million naira to rehabilitate some facilities in their old school.

 

The duo announced the donation at the maiden reunion of their Alma Mater, the School of Basic Studies, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (SBS ABU Zaria 1976/1977 set in Abuja.

 

Aliero, who made the donation, acknowledged that times had changed, noting that government was now facing numerous challenges, including educational funding constraints.

 

“The contribution I made is towards the rehabilitation of some of the educational structures we have at ABU, our alma mater.

 

“This is because the chairman said he went round and saw a lot of dilapidated buildings.

 

“For that reason, I suggest that, before we leave here, we should contribute something, no matter how small, towards the rehabilitation of such structures, he said.”

 

The former governor explained that his own personal donation was N20 million, while Mu’azu would match it up with N20 million.

 

He called on other classmates to also generously contribute toward the project.

 

Aliero recalled that in the old good days when they were students, government support for their education, was quite extensive, and covered free tuition, transportation allowances, and even laundry services.

 

He, however, said there was hope for reviving education with President Bola Tinubu’s current student loan scheme.

 

According to him, indigent students will be able to access loans from it to fund their education.

 

“Over 500 billion Naira has been set aside for that purpose.

 

“Even the Tax Reforms Bill that the National Assembly passed, have incorporated that request and it’s going to continue.

 

“So, I am very optimistic that government will be able to continue funding education, though not like it was before,” the senator said.

 

Aliero further said that the SBS ABU Zaria 76/77 set had contributed a lot to national development by bequeathing indelible legacies, which they were very proud of.

 

Also speaking, Mu’azu said the set had produced governors, ministers and senators, among others, and challenged youths to take up leadership positions.

 

“This is your ball. This is your generation. A lot of you refuse to offer yourselves for public service.

 

“At the end of the day, we end up getting half-cooked, uneducated people to lead us.

 

“That is not good. “I want to still pass the ball to all of you. You must take up the banner,” he said.

 

The traditional ruler of Karshi, the Sarkin Karshi, Abuja, Alh. Mohammed Ismaila, also an alumnus, called for a more structured alumni network and to leverage them to support schools.

 

“These public institutions will continue to decay unless and until they do two things, one of which is to engage the alumni.

 

“If you see all the great universities in the world, they engage the alumni. But here, most of the time, the university authorities don’t reach out to us.

 

“They should also have a large alumni office and have a database, especially at this age of internet to reach for support for projects,” he said.

 

The President of the association, Rabiu Dagari, while delivering a keynote address, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to reconnect.

 

“It is with immense joy and profound gratitude that I stand before you today as the President of our Alumni Association, on this truly historic occasion, our very first reunion party after 48 remarkable years,” he said.

 

Dagari said the reunion was more than a nostalgic gathering, and was a celebration of unity, which was forged at their old school.

 

“Tonight is not just a celebration of nostalgia but a testament to the enduring spirit and unity which the School of Basic Studies, ABU, Zaria has made possible,” he noted.

 

According to the alumni president, the set has accomplished great feats, having produced governors, ministers, professors, military generals, and a reigning Emir among them.

 

He particularly referenced the renowned Prof. Iya Abubakar as a source of inspiration for younger generations.

 

Dagari urged the President Tinubu to tap into the wealth of experience and expertise within the class of 76/77 by appointing some of their distinguished alumni to key government positions.

 

He said the EXCO was working on a proposal to identify areas that the members of the class of SBS 76/77 would address as their contribution to their alma mater.

 

The president also called on members to contribute both financially and intellectually to ongoing restoration efforts.

 

He also called for a minute of silence to honour the 114 deceased members of the set, and extended condolences to their families.

 

The alumni association president further urged his classmates to reconnect while time still permitted.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

CSCS shareholders laud N1.76 dividend payment, 2024 financial report 

CSCS shareholders laud N1.76 dividend payment, 2024 financial report 

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CSCS shareholders laud N1.76 dividend payment, 2024 financial report

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

Shareholders of the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) have expressed satisfaction with the company’s impressive financial performance and the declaration of a N1.76 dividend payment for the 2024 financial year.

 

The shareholders expressed their satisfaction during the company’s 31st Annual General Meeting in Lagos, where the 2024 financial report was presented.

 

The shareholders commended the company’s management team for their dedication to driving growth and increasing returns on investment.

 

Mr Boniface Okezie, Chairman of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, described the company’s financial result as excellent despite the economic headwinds.

 

Okezie tasked the CSCS on extending its operations to other African countries, considering its status as the biggest security depository registrar in West Africa.

 

He also commended the CSCS for being able to improve on curtailing fraud and forgery within the Nigerian Exchange Ltd.

 

He advised on reducing costs, particularly those related to expenses incurred by the board.

 

Also, Mrs Adetutu Shiyanbola, President of the Highly Favoured Shareholders Association of Nigeria, lauded the company’s 2024 financial performance.

 

She noted that CSCS’s impressive performance, marked by a 44 per cent growth in the company’s operating income, a 24 per cent rise in its profit before tax, a 37 per cent increase in gross earnings, and a 22 per cent growth in total assets, showcased the company’s significant responsibility and stewardship.

 

She encouraged the company to further enhance its gender balance policy, promoting greater diversity and inclusion within the organisation.

 

A member of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mrs Juliet Mbaka, commended the CSCS for the dividend paid and urged the company to look toward improving it in the current year.

 

Mbaka also urged the management of the company to consider giving some bonus to its shareholders.

 

Responding, Mr Temi Popoola, Chairman of the Board of Directors for CSCS, said the board would look critically into increasing dividends in the coming years.

 

He said one of the biggest projects the board was working on had to do with expanding the reach of the CSCS.

 

He explained that the CSCS is also working on embracing the African Exchange Linkage Programme as a way to extend its operations.

 

He said, “We are also taking intentional steps toward gender balance, embracing women with the right character and expertise on the board.”

 

Also, Alhaji Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Managing Director of CSCS, attributed the high cost of operation of the company to inflation, adding that the company continues to work on optimising costs.

 

He said the CSCS had achieved remarkable growth in combating cybercrime as it continues to invest hugely in cybersecurity infrastructure.

 

“We are scaling up our cybersecurity infrastructure, and this is one of the reasons we are incurring more costs. We are building KPIs and engaging Artificial Intelligence.

 

“Also, for our Corporate Social Responsibility, we are being strategic to embrace initiatives that, in turn, build our business,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Tea industry processes 28 products, creates 8,000 jobs in 2 years

Tea industry processes 28 products, creates 8,000 jobs in 2 years

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By Busayo Onijala

 

With a tea plantation history spanning over 400 years, Malipo County in Yunnan Province is showcasing the success of China’s poverty alleviation and rural revitalisation efforts.

 

Located in the southeastern part of Wenshan Prefecture, Malipo is home to eight indigenous ethnic groups – Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yao, Yi, Dai, Gelao, and Mongolian.

 

It is also home to over 133 hectares of tea plantation that have provided sustainable livelihoods for locals, while enhancing regional infrastructure and international trade.

 

On Friday, the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA) and Malipo County’s Communist Party Committee hosted the opening of the Third Laoshan International Tea Festival.

 

The festival is a testament to how tea cultivation helped to turn a once impoverished region into a vibrant, globally-recognised centre of tea culture.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN ) reports that Malipo’s tea will make a historic appearance at the United Nations in May, underscoring its role in the global story of China’s poverty alleviation.

 

 

In her keynote address, China’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms Hua Chunying, highlighted how Malipo’s tea industry reflected China’s broader poverty reduction strategies.

 

“This tea is more than just a source of income. It tells the story of China’s efforts to transform rural areas through targeted aid and diplomacy.”

 

The tea, once a humble local crop, has become a symbol of China’s international engagement, often presented as a ‘national gift’ at global events.

 

It has been featured in 16 countries, showcasing China’s commitment to cultural exchange and mutual learning.

 

Malipo’s transformation is also a result of strong diplomatic support facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China.

 

Earlier, during a news conference, Xiao Changju, Mayor of Malipo County People’s Government, said that the tea festival was an opportunity for Malipo to expand its international cooperation and elevate its global presence.

 

“To achieve the goals of enriching border residents, beautifying border areas, stabilising border communities, and fortifying border defences, Malipo must open its doors wider and reach new heights through external collaboration.”

 

Under the guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malipo’s tea industry has played a central role in its economic and social revitalisation, helping to lift the region out of poverty.

 

In 2020, Malipo shed its label as an “impoverished town” through efforts that included the revitalisation of its ancient tea trees.

 

Also, upon the invitation of the foreign affairs ministry, Sunwah Group, in 2023 signed a cooperation agreement with Malipo County, and its investment of 10 million yuan has helped to develop the tea industry.

 

Since 2023, the industry has developed 28 tea products, processed over 60 tonnes of tea leaves and created over 8,000 job opportunities.

 

Jason Choi, Director, Jason KS Choi Foundation and Sunwah Group, said it was the group’s mission and social responsibility to help local citizens to earn better.

 

“Tea factories were previously without standardisation and modernisation but it is a different situation at the moment.

 

“Malipo boasts of a unique natural environment and abundant resources with over 6,000 tea trees; therefore, sustainability for the environment is a driving force for us,” he said.

 

Ambassador Wang Donghua of the CPDA praised the global impact of Malipo’s tea.

 

He said the essence of Chinese tea culture, harmony, equality and mutual respect, was embodied in Malipo’s success, and it reflected China’s vision of a shared future for humanity.

 

“Malipo’s rise from poverty to prosperity is a testament to the power of strategic diplomacy and the potential of agricultural industries such as tea to drive economic transformation.”

 

In the future, Malipo plans to expand its tea industry further, with goals to enrich border communities, beautify local areas, and stabilise border defences through increased global collaboration. (NAN)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Nigerian DJs take center stage with ‘DJAN Mix Master Championship’

Nigerian DJs take center stage with ‘DJAN Mix Master Championship’

190 total views today

 

 

 

By Babajide Awoyinfa

 

Lagos, May 8, 2025 (NAN) The DeeJay’s Association of Nigeria (DJAN) has launched its groundbreaking mix master championship, a nationwide competition designed to discover, celebrate, and elevate the country’s most talented disc jockeys.

 

Speaking at a news conference on Thursday in Lagos, DJAN President, Christian Edeh, popularly known as DJ perfect intl, emphasised the significance of the initiative.

 

According to Edeh, the competition is open to all DJs who are fully registered and compliant members of the association.

 

He stated: “This is not just a competition – it’s a legacy moment for Nigerian DJs.

 

“The competition, will run over a three to four month period, and will feature multiple tiers, including state-level showdowns and zonal/regional finals.

 

“Culminating in a grand national finale scheduled for September 2025 in Lagos.

 

“For years, we’ve celebrated artistes and performers, but the DJs who drive the sound have remained behind the scenes.

 

“The DJAN MIX MASTER CHAMPIONSHIP is about putting the spotlight where it belongs – on the deck,” he said.

 

He said the competition promises life-changing rewards, with the top DJ set to walk away with a ₦5 million cash prize, and a one-year brand contract with sponsors.

 

He added that there would be opportunities to play on global platforms.

 

“Runners-up will also receive endorsement deals, stage opportunities, and other major prizes,” he said.

 

Also, DJ Vickylee, Head of the Organising Committee, said the competition had been carefully designed to ensure fairness, credibility, and wide representation across all 36 states and the FCT.

 

“We’ve spent months carefully building a championship that not only excites but delivers on merit.

 

“DJAN sees the competition as a moment for society to acknowledge the evolving role of DJs in culture, events, and youth development,” he said

 

Similarly, DJ Teazer, National Public Relations Officer of DJAN, expressed this broader vision,stating, “The DJAN mix master championship isn’t just about who’s got the best mix – it’s about raising the bar for Nigeria’s entertainment scene.”

 

In a goodwill message, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr John Asein, congratulated DJAN on this initiative, emphasising the importance of respecting intellectual property rights.

 

“DJs are cultural curators – reviving classics, showcasing new sounds, and bringing music to life in ways that connect deeply with audiences.

 

“Copyright protection is not a barrier – it is the foundation that sustains creativity, rewards originality, and ensures that both DJs and music creators can thrive in a fair and vibrant ecosystem,” he said.

 

Asein assured that the Nigerian Copyright Commission was ready to support creative professionals, including DJs, through education, enforcement, and the promotion of lawful use of copyrighted works.

 

He commended DJAN for this initiative and urged all participants to combine talent with responsibility, creativity with compliance, and entertainment with ethics. (NAN)

 

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Bi-Courtney donates to school for Blind

Bi-Courtney donates to school for Blind

138 total views today

 

 

 

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

 

As part of its corporate social responsibility, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd. on Thursday visited the Bethesda Home/School for the Blind in Lagos, praising the students’ skill and talent.

 

 

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd operates the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) in Lagos.

 

 

 

Mr Kola Bamigboye, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Premises, said the visit marked part of the firm’s 18th anniversary celebrations.

 

 

 

He said Bethesda had visited MMA2 in 2024, leaving a lasting impression on the staff and management of the terminal.

 

 

 

Bamigboye praised the company’s Founder and Chairman, Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN, for recognising talent and sending the team with gifts.

 

 

 

Presenting a cheque for N2 million, he said: “We were touched by the brilliance, confidence and talent shown during your visit to our terminal.

 

 

 

“The children’s performance and conduct deeply impressed us, planting the seed to support your vital work in any way we can.

 

 

 

“Bethesda Home for the Blind offers hope and education to visually impaired children. Your work is making an immeasurable impact,” he added.

 

 

 

Bamigboye commended the staff for nurturing the children’s potential and giving them a future of dignity and opportunity.

 

 

 

“This cheque, though modest, reflects our heartfelt support and desire to walk alongside you in your important mission,” he said.

 

 

 

He described the gesture as a symbol of respect and commitment to a more inclusive, compassionate society.

 

 

 

Mr Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautical and Cargo, also praised the school’s innovation.

 

 

 

Jibodu said: “The children’s use of their skills, despite visual impairment, inspired us to encourage their excellence and spirit.

 

 

 

“We bring greetings from our chairman, who was moved by their visit to MMA2 and urged us to support them.”

 

 

 

Dr Chioma Ohakwe, Founder of the school, urged parents of physically challenged children to enrol them, not hide them.

 

 

 

She stressed that disability is not the end, citing the academic success of some students in tertiary institutions.

 

 

 

Ohakwe acknowledged ongoing challenges but said the school remains determined to stay relevant and impactful.

 

 

 

She revealed the school has over 200 children across nursery, primary, and secondary levels.

 

 

 

Displaying students’ talents in art, music, and dance, Ohakwe thanked Babalakin for his generous support.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bi-Courtney marked its 18th anniversary on May 7 with the unveiling of a 3D Exterior Signage.

 

 

 

Mrs Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications, said the new signage enhances the terminal’s identity and user orientation.

 

 

 

“MMA2 remains a symbol of innovation and private sector excellence in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” she said.

 

 

 

NAN also reports that the company pledged to train staff and studentship on security, to boost safety at the school premises.

 

 

 

Other anniversary activities included music, gifts, and a funfair at the terminal to entertain passengers and mark the milestone. (NAN)

 

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu / Kamal Tayo Oropo

PharmAccess, Monitor Healthcare partner on quality care

PharmAccess, Monitor Healthcare partner on quality care

173 total views today

 

 

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola

International NGO, PharmAccess, has partnered with Monitor Healthcare Ltd. to improve healthcare quality in facilities and strengthen Nigeria’s health system.

 

 

 

PharmAccess Nigeria’s Country Director, Ms Njide Ndili, stated this during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lagos on Wednesday.

 

 

 

Monitor Healthcare is the first non-exclusive licensed partner of SafeCare, a standards-based approach to improve healthcare quality in low-resource settings.

 

 

 

Ndili said the partnership would help implement SafeCare standards aimed at optimising healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes nationwide.

 

 

 

She added that SafeCare enables Nigerian healthcare providers to assess and improve services using internationally recognised standards.

 

 

 

Ndili stressed that the partnership would help scale SafeCare’s quality improvement approach across more hospitals in Nigeria.

 

 

 

“We lack enough personnel to support every hospital directly, as it requires close collaboration to improve healthcare quality,” she explained.

 

 

 

She said licensed partners would now be trained to use and implement SafeCare methodology across health facilities.

 

 

 

She noted that existing partners include Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) and the National Health Insurance Authority.

 

 

 

“When Safecare is applied, healthcare outcomes improve, patient satisfaction rises, and quality improvement becomes a reality,” Ndili stated.

 

 

 

She added that SafeCare ratings range from Level One to Level Five, with Five being the highest quality standard.

 

 

 

Ndili urged the government to mandate hospital ratings to help patients understand their facility’s performance and clinical service quality.

 

 

 

Dr Kwasi Bohane, PharmAccess Director of Health Systems, said the goal is to embed quality processes in all healthcare facilities.

 

 

 

He added that achieving this would help Nigerians access better, more reliable care across both public and private hospitals.

 

 

 

Dr Femi Ogunremi, CEO of Monitor Healthcare, said the partnership would amplify quality’s role in health outcomes and universal health coverage.

 

 

 

Ogunremi noted that poor healthcare quality causes avoidable deaths and affects productivity and economic development.

 

 

 

He said the collaboration would help tailor SafeCare services to health facilities based on identified gaps in service delivery.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that SafeCare is currently present in over 25 countries and reaches more than 9.5 million patients annually.

 

According to WHO, poor-quality healthcare causes 5.7 to 8.4 million deaths yearly in low and middle-income nations.

 

 

 

WHO estimates that these results in productivity losses of $1.4 to $1.6 trillion annually in those countries. (NAN)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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