News Agency of Nigeria
New Capital Gains Tax regime to ease risks, boost investment- FG  
Economy/Business

New Capital Gains Tax regime to ease risks, boost investment- FG  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

The Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms says the new Capital Gains Tax (CGT) regime on shares is designed to reduce business risks, strengthen investor confidence, and create a fairer tax system.

 

The Chairman of the committee, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, disclosed this during a virtual market engagement with the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) on capital gains tax.

 

He explained that the reform seeks to lower entry costs for startups, improve cash flow for businesses, and protect the country’s tax base, while easing compliance for individuals and companies.

 

“Under the old regime, capital gains on shares were taxed at a flat rate of 10 per cent, with no relief for capital losses and limited exemptions.

 

“The new regime introduces progressive taxation, where gains are taxed based on the payer’s income band, similar to practices in the U.S., U.K., South Africa, Ghana, and Brazil,” Oyedele said.

 

He added that capital gains would now be taxed on a net gains-and-losses basis, with reinvestment relief retained.

 

Exemptions will also apply to small companies and individuals with proceeds of up to N150 million or gains not exceeding N10 million.

 

Other reliefs include reorganisation exemptions and the continuation of a low withholding tax on dividends.

 

Oyedele noted that beyond capital gains, the government is considering broader measures to make Nigeria’s tax environment more investment-friendly.

 

These include reducing Companies Income Tax (CIT) from 30 per cent to 25 per cent, harmonising multiple taxes from over 60 to less than 10, eliminating minimum tax on turnover, and raising the threshold for CGT exemptions on shares.

 

“We are also looking at exemptions for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and securities lending, allowing VAT credits on assets to reduce investment costs, and introducing personal income tax exemptions or final withholding tax on fixed income securities,” he said.

 

He stressed that the reforms were aimed at levelling the playing field, aligning Nigeria with global best practices, and positioning the capital market as a driver of economic growth.

 

In his remarks, NGX Chairman, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, said the session was timely, given the Federal Government’s ongoing overhaul of the tax system.

 

Kwairanga said the capital gains segment was critical to both individuals and institutions, making it imperative for stakeholders to fully grasp the changes introduced.

 

He expressed confidence that his leadership would continue to incorporate stakeholder inputs into the reform process. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Judges, practitioners seek deeper insolvency tools
General News

Judges, practitioners seek deeper insolvency tools

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Rukayat Moisemhe

 

A robust and responsive insolvency ecosystem requires incorporating all stakeholders and will improve Nigeria’s corporate rescue framework and support business recovery and commercial justice.

 

Judges and insolvency experts made the assertion at the 2025 Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) Conference on Thursday in Lagos.

 

 

 

The event had the theme: “Deepening Insolvency Tools for Resolving Commercial and Financial Challenges of Businesses”.

 

 

 

Justice John T. Tsoho, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, said that deepening insolvency tools, strengthening regulation, and ensuring ethical and professional practices would help ro resolve Nigeria’s economic and business challenges.

 

 

 

He said that insolvency practitioners, regulatory bodies and the judiciary had fundamental roles to play in the quest for restructuring insolvency tools and proceedings relating to insolvency.

 

 

 

Tsoho said that areas of insolvency to address included limitations and inadequacy in legal framework, limited corporate rescue mechanisms, and necessity for post appointment assesment.

 

 

 

He said that addressing the issues would help insolvency practitioners in achieving effective performance and adopting appropriate tools for resolving chronic indebtedness and insolvency complications.

 

 

 

Tsoho said that while insolvency and its tools might have been abused, the judiciary must play its part as an unbiased umpire.

 

 

 

“The court has been playing pivotal roles in checkmating cases and instances of abuse to which the basic tools of insolvency (such as administration, receivership, petition) have been put.

 

 

 

“Aside these few cases of anomalies and irregularities, lawyers as insolvency practitioners have demonstrated and recorded appreciable good practice and high sense of responsibility in handling insolvency matters.

 

 

 

“The role of BRIPAN is critical as a stakeholder in insolvency practice.

 

 

 

“Continuous assessment of the practice and activities of insolvency practitioners is a welcome development to,” he said.

 

 

 

Mrs Victoria Nwoye, Justice of the Court of Appeal, said the transformative shift in Nigeria’s corporate insolvency landscape by the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020 was a major departure from the previous liquidation-heavy regime.

 

 

 

Nwoye, however, noted that across many jurisdictions, insolvency regimes remained underdeveloped, overly punitive or inaccessible to the many businesses that needed them most.

 

She noted that in spite of the innovations, the practical application of the provisions had been uneven.

 

 

 

According to her, many stakeholders including judges, lawyers, insolvency practitioners, and regulators were still navigating the contours of the new tools.

 

 

 

“Judges, for instance, are the ultimate interpreters of statutory provisions.

 

 

 

“Their understanding of the intent and mechanics of tools such as Company Voluntary Arrangements (CVAs) and administrations and schemes of arrangement will shape how these tools are applied in practice.

 

 

 

“There is no gainsaying that a well-informed judiciary ensures uniform application of insolvency laws across jurisdictions, and modern insolvency frameworks rely on timely judicial intervention.

 

 

 

“We therefore need to deepen the tools of insolvency, which will incorporate all players to build a more robust and responsive insolvency ecosystem.

 

“We must pursue reforms that are bold, inclusive and forward-looking,” she said.

 

 

 

She added the Nigeria must begin to imagine a business environment where failure would not be fatal, creditors would recover value through collaboration, and insolvency would not be a stigma but a second chance.

 

 

 

The President of BRIPAN, Mr Chimezie Ihekweazu, said the event brought together regulators, practitioners, judges, policymakers, financial experts, and business leaders to advance insolvency and business recovery practices.

 

 

 

Ihekweazu, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said that globally, businesses were grappling with dynamic economic pressures and geo-political uncertainties.

 

 

 

He said that since Nigeria was not immune to the challenges, it had become imperative to sharpen and deepen tools for business rescue, debt restructuring and sustainable recovery.

 

 

 

“As we embark on this year’s conference, let us do so with a commitment to transform challenges into opportunities, empower businesses to thrive, and strengthen our economy.

 

 

 

“In doing this, we must show not only good character and strong ethical values, but must always lead with integrity, be purposeful in service and have respect for one another,” he said.

 

 

 

Mr Albert Folorunsho, Vice President, BRIPAN, said that insolvency law and practice presented a recourse to global challenges brought by economic shifts, regulatory reforms and financial uncertainties.

 

 

 

Folorunsho said that the world was at the crossroads of economic recovery and business sustainability, adding that insolvency, contrary to its perception as a last resort, had become a lifeline.

 

 

 

He hoped that the event would engage participants on the use of insolvency tools to enforce arbitration awards, new carve-outs under the Investment and Securities Act of 2025 and their implications.

 

 

 

He lauded the judiciary for its role in interpreting, applying and strengthening insolvency law, saying its commitment would ensure that insolvency evolved to a credible instrument for business rescue and commercial justice. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Be agents of change – Sanwo-Olu charges corps members
General News

Be agents of change – Sanwo-Olu charges corps members

 

 

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has charged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to be agents of change that Nigeria desires.

 

Sanwo-Olu gave the charge on Friday at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch B Stream 2, corps members.

 

The event took place at the NYSC temporary orientation camp, Iyana Ipaja.

 

The governor was represented by Mr Ibukun Dosunmu, the Director of General Services, Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

 

He urged the corps members to take their orientation seriously and be ready to render national service.

 

“You have the opportunity to go beyond the ordinary and surpass the achievements of your predecessors.

 

“Build projects, teach the young, mentor the uninspired, guide the misguided, bring hope to the hopeless, offer comfort to the vulnerable, and be helping hands to those in need.

 

“Wherever you find yourselves, let your host communities feel your presence, your compassion and your positive impact.

 

“Do not look away from humanity; rather, be the voice that reassures, the hands that heal, and the agents of change that Nigeria so dearly needs,” the governor charged.

 

Sanwo-Olu said that the corps members’ experiences from the orientation course would remain invaluable.

 

The governor said that the state government would continue to provide the enabling environment for NYSC scheme to thrive.

 

He said that the government remained committed to the security of lives and property in the state, giving the assurance that the safety and welfare of corps members would remain a top priority.

 

In her address, the Lagos State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Christiana Salmwang, said that 5,183 prospective corps members were deployed to Lagos State and 2,710 were camped in Lagos.

 

She said that 748 were doing orientation course in Ekiti, 408 in Ondo, 767 in Osun, and 550 in Ogun.

 

According to her, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with critical health conditions have been excused from strenuous activities and granted leave from camp.

 

“Your Excellency, esteemed guests, it gives me great pleasure to report that these vibrant youths have already adapted to the regimented camp schedule with commendable zeal.

 

“Their enthusiasm is helping us to sustain a successful orientation course and smooth camp administration,” she said.

 

The coordinator urged the corp members to take advantage of opportunities offered by the national service to give their best to Nigeria.

 

She also urged them to embrace the core values of the scheme, which were designed to prepare them for leadership and responsible citizenship.

 

“I encourage you to participate fully and comply with all camp rules and regulations,” Salmwang added.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the oath of allegiance was administered to the corps members by Justice Olalekan Oresanya of the Ikeja High Court on behalf of the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Ijeoma Popoola

Global uncertainty threatens world peace – Don
General News

Global uncertainty threatens world peace – Don

 

By Busayo Onijala

Prof. Efem Ubi, Director of Studies at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), says uncertainty in the global system remains the biggest threat to peace.

 

As the world marks the International Day of Peace, Ubi stressed the urgent need for genuine multilateralism to address disruptions threatening stability in the international order.

 

He made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos.

 

The international relations expert noted that the rivalry between superpowers and emerging powers, including China, Russia, India, Brazil, South Africa and Nigeria, could intensify global instability.

 

According to him, peace can only be assured when all powers, both dominant and emerging, work together through strong multilateral efforts to resolve persistent conflicts.

 

“When you talk about concerted effort, you are talking about multilateralism, which is actually the future,” he said.

 

Ubi further observed that inequality between rich and poor nations also fuels instability, stressing that a divided world of “haves and have-nots” cannot sustain lasting peace.

 

“Justice, fairness, equity and parity must also be at the core of international relations if conflicts are to be reduced,” he added.

 

Highlighting solutions, Ubi said building a culture of peace requires recognising shared humanity and appreciating that global challenges are common across developed and developing nations.

 

He urged the international community to adopt pre-emption rather than prevention in conflict management, noting it is cheaper and more effective to forestall crises before escalation.

 

NAN reports that the International Day of Peace is observed annually on Sept. 21, following its creation by the United Nations General Assembly to strengthen global peace.

 

The 2025 commemoration comes amid ongoing conflicts, from the Russia-Ukraine war to instability in the Sahel, alongside tensions in the Middle East and Asia.

 

Nigeria, Africa’s largest peacekeeping contributor, continues to play a crucial role in United Nations and African Union missions across the continent.

 

Recently, Mohamed Fall, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, called for collective action, trust, and solidarity in addressing shared global challenges.

 

According to him, the world must commit to peace, dialogue, and reconciliation to advance sustainable development. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Lagos registers farmers under ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme  
Agriculture

Lagos registers farmers under ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Mercy Omoike

 

The Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems says it has started registering farmers in the state under its ‘Produce for Lagos’ programme.

 

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, said this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

 

She said the programme is aimed at increasing food production for the Lagos market through structured agreements where farmers could sell directly to the state at guaranteed prices.

 

According to her, with a population of over 24 million people, Lagos is the single largest consumer of food in Nigeria.

 

Olusanya said the initiative would give farmers direct access to a secured market, reduce risks of waste, promote stable food prices, and improve farmers’ earnings.

 

She added that the programme would also support agricultural trade between Lagos and other states, improve food distribution, and strengthen the overall food supply chain.

 

The commissioner said the programme focused on food production within Lagos and also building partnerships with farmers in major food-producing states across the country.

 

“By registering, farmers will be part of a central database that will help the state plan, give interventions, and deliver support services,” she said.

 

She urged farmers to register through the official link or through the ministry’s official platforms.

 

She said that more details and updates on the programme would be released through these channels.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe/Chioma Ugboma

Digital technology key to Nigeria’s oil, gas future – Experts
Oil & Gas

Digital technology key to Nigeria’s oil, gas future – Experts

 

 

 

 

 

By Adeyemi Adeleye

 

Experts in the oil and gas industry have said that the adoption of digital technologies would tackle inefficiencies and drive sustainable growth in the energy sector.

 

They spoke on Thursday in Lagos at the 2025 Press Week Lecture and Symposium organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Chapel.

 

The theme of the symposium was “Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas”.

 

The gathering drew top industry players, media leaders, traditional rulers, students, and security officials for a wide-ranging dialogue on the future of Nigeria’s most vital industry.

 

Mr Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), represented by Vice Chairman, Mr Obi Uzu, highlighted the role of digital solutions across exploration, drilling, production, and other oil services.

 

He noted that Nigeria’s oil production had risen to about 1.7 million barrels per day and was expected to reach two million barrels soon.

 

Ogunsanya emphasised that increased production would strengthen the naira and fund key infrastructure projects, such as railway networks connecting Lagos to northern, eastern, and southern Nigeria, without excessive borrowing.

 

He stressed the importance of using oil revenue to sustain national development rather than relying heavily on loans, which undermine financial independence.

 

Comparing Nigeria to Norway, Ogunsanya explained how the Nordic country had prudently saved and invested oil earnings into education, infrastructure, and long-term development, in contrast to the nation’s monthly revenue distribution system.

 

Mr Clement Isong, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Executive Secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), represented by the Secretary of the Association, Ms Ogechi Nkwoji, highlighted the urgent need for stakeholders and regulators in the sector to embrace digital technologies.

 

According to him, digital evolution can boost operational efficiency, reduce costs, enhance safety, and align with sustainability goals.

 

Isong pointed out that the downstream energy sector forms the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.

 

“When the downstream system functions well, commerce thrives, hospitals operate, and markets stay open. When it fails, chaos and hardship follow immediately,” he said.

 

He identified challenges such as price volatility, equipment failures, fuel losses, fraud, and environmental risks, linking them to aging infrastructure, poor record-keeping, and skill gaps.

 

According to Isong, the solution lies in integrated digital tools such as sensors, automation, analytics, and secure transaction systems to monitor refining, storage, distribution, and retail activities.

 

He highlighted key technologies including IoT forecourt automation for real-time pump activity and sales tracking, remote pricing and reconciliation systems at retail fuel stations, AI-powered pipeline leak detection, terminal automation for depot operations, digital tank gauging, and predictive maintenance.

 

He also mentioned blockchain for supply chain transparency and cashless fueling platforms.

 

He added that many MEMAN members were already advancing toward digitalisation.

 

This, he said, would improve safety, environmental protection, operational efficiency, financial transparency, regulatory compliance, and workforce productivity.

 

Dr Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), called for policy reforms alongside digital transformation to unlock Nigeria’s oil and gas potential.

 

Speaking on “Unlocking the Potential of Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Sector and Promoting Digital Transformation”, he stressed the need for coherent policies, strong institutions, and bold leadership to attract investment, increase production, diversify revenue, and create jobs.

 

Yusuf underscored that digitalisation was no longer optional but essential to remain globally competitive, particularly as investors increasingly demand transparency and robust ESG reporting.

 

Dr Ayodele Oni, Partner and Chair of Energy & Natural Resources Practice Group at Bloomfield Law Practice, urged the Federal Government to leverage technology to support export innovations across Africa.

 

He advocated expanding pipeline infrastructure to transport gas to North Africa and Europe, reducing dependence on crude oil.

 

Oni emphasised the critical role of technology in remotely monitoring oil and gas facilities, warning that without continued evolution, Nigeria risks falling behind as global energy transitions to electric vehicles and cleaner fuels.

 

Chief Joseph Keshinro, Chairman of the Lagos State Baales Forum, encouraged Nigerian youths to acquire digital skills to help transform the energy sector.

 

The event’s panel discussion, moderated by Mr Olu Philips, Energy Editor of Channels Television, featured Mr Henry Adigun, an oil & gas consultant; Mr Emeka Ugwuanyi Publisher, TBI Africa Magazine), and Mr Adewale Sanyaolu (Energy Editor, The Sun Newspapers).

 

The panel urged government and youths to innovate and harness technology to revolutionise Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

 

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Tijani Fatai, pledged to safeguard oil and gas investments during this period of digital transformation.

 

He highlighted enhanced security collaboration with the Armed Forces, NSCDC, FRSC, and DSS, alongside technology investments such as command centres, drone surveillance, and geo-fencing systems.

 

Malam Ali M. Ali, Managing Director of NAN, expressed confidence that the insights shared would deepen understanding of digital transformation in the oil and gas sector.

 

He commended the NUJ-NAN Lagos leadership for proactive initiatives aligned with global trends and highlighted NAN’s commitment to investing in digital infrastructure, capacity building, and workforce training.

 

The NUJ-NAN Chapel Chairman, Mr Yunus Yusuf, urged all stakeholders to leverage digital technology for a more transparent, efficient, and sustainable energy future.

 

He emphasised deploying digital tools to drive sustainability, empower communities, and reshape Nigeria’s oil and gas landscape. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

TV show organiser seeks youth, PWDs inclusion in governance
General News

TV show organiser seeks youth, PWDs inclusion in governance

 

 

 

 

By Funmilola Gboteku

 

Glory Ukwenga, Executive Director, Nigeria House of Commons TV show, has called for greater support for the inclusion of youths and physically challenged persons in governance.

 

Ukwenga said this during a virtual media chat organised by Africana League, creators of the political reality TV show, on Thursday.

 

The theme of the event is  “Substantiating the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability Act 2018”.

 

Ukwenga said the show was designed to encourage Nigerian youths to participate in national development by debating policy issues and learning leadership skills.

 

“The programme creates a stage where young leaders from across the federation debate motions and challenge themselves, while also inspiring other youths,” she said.

 

She said the platform highlighted the need for a political culture built on ideas and accountability rather than patronage.

 

According to her, the initiative responds to the low number of young people in the legislature, with only 14 out of 360 members of the House of Representatives falling within the youth category.

 

“Representation should also extend to young women and physically challenged persons, diversity should not only be acknowledged but normalised in governance,” she said.

 

Ukwenga said the show helped young Nigerians to see themselves as capable of leadership and to understand legislative procedures.

 

“Many young people view governance as a space for older politicians, but history shows that many of today’s leaders entered politics when they were young,” Ukwenga said.

 

She explained that the programme uses simulated political parties to encourage debates based on ideology and vision, rather than material interests.

 

She also said that fact-checking mechanisms were built into the show to reinforce accountability and accuracy during debates.

 

Similarly, Mary Victor-Magaji, representing Kebbi State at Nigeria House of Commons, said the Disability Act had not achieved its objectives due to poor compliance.

 

“Inadequate enforcement has weakened the impact of the law. Penalties for defaulters are needed to make it effective,” she said.

 

Victor-Magaji explained that although the Act gave a five-year window for institutions to adjust, many public buildings and offices had yet to meet accessibility standards.

 

She said the provision requiring five per cent of jobs in public institutions to be reserved for physically challenged persons was also not being met.

 

“Even when such positions are available, many of the beneficiaries are not genuinely engaged. This is not because of incompetence, but because of weak institutional frameworks,” she noted.

 

Victor-Magaji said it was discouraging to have a law in place that could not be enforced, adding that this rendered it ineffective.

 

“Disability should not be treated as a charity issue, It must be recognised as a matter of human rights and equal opportunity,” Victor-Magaji explained.

 

She pointed out that Nigeria lacked reliable data on the number of physically challenged persons, with estimates ranging from 27 million to 31 million.

 

Victor-Magaji said the absence of accurate data had also undermined planning and policymaking.

 

She added that excluding physically challenged persons from the economy had wider implications, citing international reports showing huge global economic losses from lack of inclusion.

 

“Effective implementation of the Act will not only improve the lives of physically challenged Nigerians but also strengthen the nation’s global competitiveness,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Air Peace, NBCC seek harmonised Nigeria–UK aviation regulations
Economy/Business

Air Peace, NBCC seek harmonised Nigeria–UK aviation regulations

 

 

 

By Rukayat Moisemhe

 

Chief Executive Officer, Air Peace Ltd., Mr Allen Onyema, has called for harmonised regulations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom to smoothen corridors, reduce bottlenecks, cut delays and expand trade.

 

Onyema made the call on Thursday night in Lagos at the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) members’ evening and induction ceremony.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had as its theme: “Trade without Borders: Aviation as a Catalyst for Bilateral Growth between Nigeria and UK”.

 

Onyema said that Nigeria and the United Kingdom shared a long history of partnership, with trade today valued at nearly eight billion pounds annually.

 

He, however, said that for years, people and businesses bore the burden of limited access, high costs, and dependence on foreign carriers.

 

This, he said, resulted in missed opportunities, exporters unable to meet timelines, students and professionals paying more than they should, with airlines forced to spend billions annually maintaining aircraft abroad.

 

The aviation entrepreneur emphasised the need to implement bilateral agreements with fairness and reciprocity, reduce bottlenecks in cargo clearance while continuing government’s strong support for indigenous operators.

 

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, for reforms in the sector.

 

Onyema also lauded the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Johnny Baxter, for facilitating Air Peace’s entry into the UK market.

 

He said that their efforts in promoting ease of doing business and ensuring fairness in the skies gave indigenous players the courage to expand boldly and represent the country proudly.

 

“Aviation should not be seen as a luxury but an economic lifeline, reducing trade costs, attracting investment, boosting tourism and strengthening people-to-people ties.

 

“Aviation as we all know it is more than aircraft in the skies.

 

“It is the invisible thread that binds nations together, carries commerce across oceans, and turns ambition into opportunity.

 

“When a flight takes off, it is not just a journey; it is a bridge, carrying our people, our produce, our pride, and our possibilities,” he said.

 

Onyema also said that Air Peace was proud to be Nigeria’s flag-bearer and its only indigenous airline currently connecting Nigeria directly to UK, adding that it will soon start its Abuja–London flights in October.

 

He said that the airline recently broke ground on what will soon be Africa’s largest Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, right at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

 

“Spread across 34,000 square metres, with an investment of N32 billion, this facility will create over 50,000 direct and indirect jobs,” he said.

 

Onyema also called for support for Dangote refinery and other indigenous enterprises, stating that crippling Nigeria investment is unpatriotic and could increase insecurity.

 

At the event, he gave consent for a Nigeria made coffee presented to him to be served on the Air Peace flights.

 

Prince Abimbola Olashore, President, NBCC, said that Onyema, through Air Peace, had demonstrated resilience, patriotism, and a commitment to excellence that reflected the very values of the chamber.

 

Olashore said that Onyema’s leadership in aviation had not only strengthened connectivity for Nigeria, but has also showcased the potential of Nigerian enterprise on the global stage.

 

He urged the chamber’s new inductees to be more committed contributing to the chamber’s shared vision of prosperity.

 

He said that they could do that by bringing their unique perspectives to the table, and helping to shape the future of bilateral business relations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Nsibidi Institute festival to showcase connections in Nigerian cultures- Organiser
Culture & Tourism

Nsibidi Institute festival to showcase connections in Nigerian cultures- Organiser

By Taiye Olayemi

Mr Ed Keazor, Director of Nsibidi Institute, says the connections between Nigerian contemporary and historical popular cultures must be explored for improved promotion and understanding.

Keazor said this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

According to him, Nigerian culture cannot be fully appreciated without recognising how present-day music, film, literature, fashion, and media draw inspiration from historical traditions and how they are often reinterpreted.

He said that exploring these linkages would strengthen cultural identity and provide younger generations with a sense of continuity and belonging.

He explained the historical popular cultures as: heritages, traditions, old media, early arts, and cultures as: modern arts, media, fashion, film, and more.

He described the institute as an independent research and cultural organisation devoted to preserving and reimagining indigenous knowledge systems rooted in Nigerian history, language, and identity.

He said that the institute will be hosting an inaugural festival to showcase the affinities between Nigerian contemporary and historical popular cultures through symposiums, exhibitions, film screenings, and interactive sessions.

“This is meant to drive better understanding of our culture, and it will hold from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28 at Quintessence, Victoria Island in Lagos.

“The theme will be “The Past in the Present Around Us: A Retrospective Celebration of Nigerian Popular Culture”.

“The opening day will feature a keynote address titled “Heritage and Future in the Past”, to be delivered by Mr Obi Asika, Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture.

“There will be a symposium on “The Nigerian Popular Press: A Driver of Heritage and Social Culture”, to be moderated by Mrs Aduke Gomez, with panelists such as Mr Jahman Anikulapo, Mr Don Adinuba, Mrs Freda Olatunbosun and Mr Micheal Effiong James.

“Exhibitions on century-old newspaper advertising (1863–1963) and a film screening on “Lagos: The Birth of a City Style (1861–1967)” by Muni and Ed Keazor will also be showcased,” he said.

He noted that a book discussion on “Hubris: A Brief Political History of the Nigerian Army” by retired Maj-Gen. Tunde Akinkunmi will focus on “Military Rule and Social Impact” and will feature a conversation with , Mr Yemi Candide-Johnson (SAN).

“The evening session will celebrate veteran photographer Don Barber in “A Life Behind the Lens” to be moderated by Mr Dayo Adedayo.

“The second day of the festival will hold at Didi Museum, Victoria Island, while the closing ceremony, featuring awards and recognitions, will return to Quintessence on Sept. 28,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Sanwo-Olu, others, advocate collaboration, standardisation of Nigerian designs
Culture & Tourism

Sanwo-Olu, others, advocate collaboration, standardisation of Nigerian designs

 

 

 

 

 

By Grace Alegba

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday harped on the importance of collaboration and quality assurance towards global integration of indigenous designs into construction, infrastructure, tourism and other sectors.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted this at the opening of the Ecobank Build and Design Expo with the theme: “How We Build, How We Live”, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island.

He reiterated his committed to building a modern inclusive and resilient liveable city through innovative environment friendly designs that serves all its citizens and for future generations.

He said that the theme was beyond mere displays, adding that, it was thoughtfully curated platform featuring exceptional exhibitors, showcasing the finest in design, real estate, construction and sustainable materials.

The governor said that visions could be actualised with support of skilled professionals, supportive policies, responsible institutions and sustainable financing to turn designs into reality.

“We are committed to building a city that is modern and liveable; a city that serves all its citizens and for future generations. Good design and solid construction are not luxury items, they are necessities.

“The bridges, roads, housing and public spaces we create must embody a Lagos that is forward-thinking, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

“I commend Ecobank for their commitment to making sure that young professionals, small businesses, artisans and craftsmen are recognised in this arena.

“They are providing a platform that truly elevates their work. These individuals are the ones who turn ideas into tangible realities, transforming sketches into spaces that people live in, enjoy and take pride in.

“For everyone working in finance: infrastructure, housing and design are not abstract concepts. With careful risk evaluation, solid policies and smart financing strategies, they can turn into real, sustainable projects,” he said.

The governor, who delivered a goodwill message was represented by Mrs Bukola Agbaminoja, Executive Secretary, Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board.

Sanwo-Olu urged build environment professionals to strive for designs that minimise environmental impact, embrace energy efficiency and use materials wisely.

Panelists at the event called for collaboration, standardisation, strategic government support for local designs to evolve to become globally attractive and competitive across sectors while preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

The panelists spoke on the topic “Knowledge Exchange- International Vs. Local: The Sourcing Question For Interior Design”.

Tola Akerele, CEO of National Theatre Nigeria and Founder of iDESIGN, emphasised the need to invest in people, to train them to be able to take design volumes to larger scale.

She stressed the need for more research with government support to refine local products to international standards as well as collaboration across sectors to “showcase Nigeria in the best light possible”.

Aisha Lawal, CEO and founder of Lash Interiors, explained challenges of materials sourcing, scaling furniture manufacturing and how passion provided markets beyond her organisation’s capacity for her designs.

She said that quality assurance required continuously doing things properly to attract global buyers.

On his part, Adeyemi Shokunbi, Architect, Creative Director of NANA Collective Studio and Co-Founder of Patrickwaheed Design Consultancy, explained why he returned home from UK after training to promote Nigerian designs.

He lamented resistance from local institutions, adding that, Nigerian designs have great potentials that must be jointly promoted.

Also, Patrick Koshoni, Creative Director (Design + Hospitality) and CEO of Patrick Waheed Design Consultancy & MİLİKİ, explained that without western influence, Nigerian designs are globally relevant and sellable.

“I believe that Nigeria’s future is going to be safeguarded because of the creative industry,” he said.

He defined local design as building culture into project concepts, “it is using my culture to tell personalised stories.

“Collaboration requires courage, open mind and patience,” he said.

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Mobolaji Adeniyi, called for collaboration across fields while calling for standardisation.

She said that some people shun made in Nigeria products because of low quality, adding that, NIA is working with other built environment professionals towards continuous quality designs and projects delivery.

She thanked Ecobank for the expo showcasing more than 60 global and local giants while pledging the support of the NIA. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

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