News Agency of Nigeria
Education Reform: Lagos launches schools’ needs assessment
Education

Education Reform: Lagos launches schools’ needs assessment

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

The Lagos State Government has launched a comprehensive schools’ needs assessment to generate reliable data guiding reforms, resource allocation, and improved basic education across public schools.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the official launch was held on Thursday at the LASUBEB Multi-purpose Hall, Maryland, Lagos.

 

 

 

Dr Hakeem Shittu, described the project as a bold step toward evidence-based planning in education.

 

 

 

Shittu explained that the exercise would provide insights into schools’ strengths and weaknesses, enabling targeted interventions, teacher training, and infrastructure upgrades to improve pupils’ learning outcomes.

 

 

 

According to him, the initiative reflects the state government’s unwavering commitment to raising the quality of basic education across Lagos.

 

 

 

He commended teachers, school administrators, and education officers for their dedication, urging parents, communities, and partners to support the process for sustainable sector-wide improvement.

 

 

 

Shittu also expressed gratitude to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his strong backing of reforms, stressing that the project would deliver immediate and long-term benefits to learners.

 

 

 

“Together, we can build a brighter future for the next generation of Lagosians. The assessment will directly shape government policies and reforms in education,” he said.

 

 

 

Similarly, Executive Assistant to Gov. Sanwo-Olu on Project Implementation and Monitoring, Mr Oluwasegun Sanwo-Olu, explained that the six-week exercise would cover schools, vocational centres, and local education offices.

 

 

 

He disclosed that 1,284 facilities, including schools in riverine and upland areas, would be assessed, with over 200 assessors deployed for surveys, visits, and weekly reviews.

 

 

 

Sanwo-Olu added that data collected would be thoroughly verified before being presented to SUBEB and then to the governor for timely policy actions addressing pressing challenges.

 

 

 

“The goal is to provide a development plan any government can rely on, covering manpower, training, infrastructure, expansion, and transportation for current and future administrations,” he said.

 

 

 

He stressed that information technology tools would be deployed for accurate data analysis, positioning Lagos as a centre of excellence in educational planning and reform. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Community leaders want secondary school, better roads in Ojokoro
Community

Community leaders want secondary school, better roads in Ojokoro

 

 

 

 

By Adeyemi Adeleye

Community leaders among other stakeholders in Ojokoro area of Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency II in Lagos State on Thursday called for the establishment of a senior secondary school and better road infrastructure in the area.

 

They spoke at the 10th Annual Constituency Stakeholders’ Meeting convened by the Lagos State House of Assembly simultaneously across all the 40 constituencies in the state.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the edition is “Governance in Action: The Gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda”.

 

The community leaders , led by Alhaji Azeez Amusat, the Chairman, Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council (CDAC), said that a senior secondary school had become imperative at Akinyele/Alakuko to widen access to secondary education.

 

According to him, previous stakeholders meetings have been beneficial, bringing about construction and repairs of road networks in the area.

 

“We are looking for more such things. We want to remind our lawmakers that some roads that are important to us are yet to be constituted.

 

“We have a school project that we want the government to assist us to build.

 

“Though we (community) have been told to construct six classrooms (by self help) before the government will come in to erect the edify for a senior secondary school at Akinyele/Alakuko.

 

“We need a senior secondary school at Akinyele in Alakuko area. We only have a junior secondary school there.

 

“When these children graduate from junior secondary school, there is no senior secondary school to go around them.

 

“The distance between Akinyele Junior Secondary School to where we have a senior secondary school is too far and it is too dangerous, endangering the lives of these children.

 

“That is why we want a senior secondary school nearby that will take care of those children. We are looking forward to the government to help us,” Amusat said.

 

According to him, the community,in collaboration with the LCDA, has purchased land and fenced it, while the construction of six classrooms is also ongoing.

 

 

On economic challenges, the community leader urged all the representatives of the people to look at the suffering of the people and devise means of alleviating them.

 

“We appreciate the Federal Government’s social welfare monthly packages for the poor. We want both the local and state governments to continue helping the people,” he added.

 

Corroborating, Oba Williams Adeshoga, the Olorile of Alagbado in Ojokoro LCDA, reiterated the need for a senior secondary school in the area and construction of more roads for easy movements.

 

Also speaking, Mr Olusegun Jolaosho, Councillor representing Ward G, said that the community’s need for a senior secondary school could not be over emphasised.

 

Commending the state government’s infrastructure and education strides, Jolaosho, urged the state Ministry of Education to assist the community in quest for a senior secondary school.

 

In his address the lawmaker representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency II at the Lagos Assembly, Mr Olotu Emmanuel, said that the meeting provided the lawmaker the opportunity to give an account of stewardship as well as engage, interact and strengthen mutual relationships with the people.

 

Emmanuel said that such meeting remained imperative to collectively address pressing matters affecting the growth, progress and development of the community.

 

He said that the Assembly remained committed to welfare and wellbeing of residents, saying ” we will not rest on our oars until the impact of governance is felt in every corner of the state.”

 

Emmanuel, who noted that President Bola Tinubu’s leadership had brought hope to the nation, said that Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State had also been a pivotal partner in the realization of the shared vision.

 

According to him, the Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, had demonstrated accountable and forward-thinking lawmaking to secure a future that benefits all.

 

He said that the Assembly had been supporting the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda in areas such as transportation, environmental sustainability, housing, healthcare, education, civic engagement and security.

 

Also, Mr James Owolabi, a former member of the House of Representatives, who represented Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency, who commended Emmanuel for quality representation, said that the community needed improved road infrastructure.

 

Earlier, in her welcome address, Mrs Adenike Rosiji, the Executive Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), said that Tinubu’s agenda had positively impacted states and thev grassroots.

 

Rosiji, who appreciated Emmanuel for bringing government close to the people, said that meeting was a demonstration of accountability, inclusiveness and collective responsibility.

 

The event brought together various traditional, political, community, and market, youth, women and ethic leaders and other stakeholders. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bolaji Buhari

Fashion icon Giorgio Armani dies at 91
Entertainment

Fashion icon Giorgio Armani dies at 91

By Folasade Adeniran

Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani has died at 91, his company confirmed in an Instagram post on Thursday. His passing marks the end of an era.

The Armani Group wrote: “With infinite condolences, the Armani group announces the passing of its inventor, founder and tireless engine: Giorgio Armani.”

It added: “Mr Armani, as he was respectfully called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.”

Armani worked tirelessly until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, his collections, and numerous innovative projects in progress and yet to come.

The statement noted that over the years he created a vision that extended beyond fashion, shaping lifestyles with extraordinary clarity, precision, and forward-looking creativity.

He was described as being driven by inexhaustible curiosity and attentiveness, building an open dialogue with the public and establishing himself as a respected global figure.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Armani was renowned for his high-end lifestyle and groundbreaking contributions to international fashion, particularly red-carpet and Hollywood glamour.

Born in Piacenza, northern Italy, in 1934, Armani initially studied medicine before pursuing design, eventually transforming global fashion with his minimalist, elegant approach.

He established his fashion house in Milan in 1975. It quickly rose to prominence, setting new standards for understated sophistication and redefining modern tailoring.

Armani’s label expanded across clothing, accessories, perfumes, and interior design, later branching into music, sports sponsorships, restaurants, and luxury hotels under the Armani brand.

He dressed countless celebrities, including Richard Gere in American Gigolo, and became a preferred designer for stars at the Oscars, Cannes, and other red-carpet events.

Armani’s designs were distinguished by clean lines, neutral colours, and timeless elegance, which revolutionised the fashion industry in the late 20th century.

Throughout his career, Armani remained fiercely independent, refusing buyouts and keeping his empire under private control, a rarity in the world of high fashion.

Beyond fashion, he was a philanthropist, supporting health, education, and humanitarian causes, while also advocating for Italian craftsmanship on the global stage.

Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry, with many hailing Armani as a visionary who influenced generations of designers and reshaped global style. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Deepening partnership crucial to developing Nigeria’s building sector —Groups
General News

Deepening partnership crucial to developing Nigeria’s building sector —Groups

 

 

 

By Angela Atabo

 

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) have pledged to deepen their partnership to develop the building sector in Nigeria.

 

The Chairman of CORBON, Samson Opaluwah, made this known during a courtesy visit to him by Ntando Khuzwayo, CIOB’s Education Lead for Sub-Saharan Africa, on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

Opaluwah reaffirmed the commitment of CORBON toward advancing the building profession through partnerships with organisations like CIOB.

 

He described the move as a significant step for Nigeria, Africa, and the global construction industry.

 

Opaluwah explained that the two institutions were determined to work together to strengthen research, improve professional standards, and bridge existing gaps in the industry.

 

He said, “Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and it has a large construction industry. We will work together with CIOB to bridge that gap and ensure we advance the course of the profession through research.

 

“We will also ensure to use our platform which we have set up as professionals to improve our society and promote the practice of building.”

 

Opaluwah noted that the building profession in Nigeria has operated in clearly defined professional lines with stakeholders likes engineers, architects, town planners, quantity surveyors, estate surveyors, and builders.

 

He said that, established in 1989, CORBON had spent 35 years developing standards and practices for the profession, and to address the nation’s housing deficits.

 

The CORBON chairman said that builders viewed the challenge of Nigeria’s housing deficit, as an opportunity to provide lasting solutions through innovation and collaboration.

 

He said that the partnership with CIOB would help Nigeria to adopt international codes and align with global best practices.

 

Opaluwah recalled that recently, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, inaugurated the National Building Code Advisory Committee with CORBON as a member.

 

He said the collaboration with CIOB was apt as CORBON would need international coding in other countries to keep abreast with happenings in the housing sectors of other climes.

 

“If this collaboration between us is well managed, it will be a fantastic thing for Nigeria, Africa and the world,” he said.

 

Opaluwah said the partnership would also aid the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the Renewed Hope Cities project aimed at delivering affordable housing across states.

 

Speaking on behalf of CIOB, Ntando Khuzwayo described the existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) between both bodies as “very unique” and a reflection of genuine commitment.

 

Khuzwayo commended ORBON for the opportunity to collaboratively work with them to grow the building industry.

 

“This MoU is not just a piece of paper. We have seen the action and interest of the members of CORBON and the public.

 

“This is a good sign; it is the first collaborative event in the Sub-Saharan region with CORBON,” he said.

 

The two groups further pledged to sustain the partnership as a model of professional collaboration to drive growth in Nigeria’s construction sector and beyond.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Mark Longyen

UK invests .5m in Nigerian agric-tech firm to boost food security
Economy/Business

UK invests $7.5m in Nigerian agric-tech firm to boost food security

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

The British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, has committed $7.5 million to Nigerian agri-tech platform, Babban Gona.

 

The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter, disclosed this during a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

 

He said this was to strengthen food security and climate resilience for smallholder farmers in Northern Nigeria

 

Baxter said the investment would address key challenges facing smallholder farmers, including poor access to finance, quality inputs, agronomic training, and reliable markets.

 

He said although northern Nigeria produced up to 60 per cent of Nigeria’s maize, smallholder farmers were constrained by low productivity and increasing climate risks such as floods and droughts.

 

“These constraints worsen post-harvest losses of up to 30 per cent, threatening yields, incomes, and deepening food insecurity in the region,” he said.

 

According to him, Babban Gona’s offering is designed to overcome these structural barriers by providing comprehensive end-to-end services for smallholders through its Artificial Intelligence powered platform.

 

The high commissioner said these included high-quality agricultural inputs, financial credit, training on climate-smart practices, and support with harvest, storage, and access to market.

 

Baxter noted that Babban Gona’s franchise model would help top farmers run micro-enterprises that provide inputs and financing, supporting them to scale and access local bank funding.

 

“Through this model, Babban Gona is expected to improve yields, incomes, and climate resilience for around 140,000 smallholder farmers in northern Nigeria by 2029,” he said.

 

According to Baxter, a core component of the investment was building the climate resilience of smallholders.

 

He said Babban Gona’s services include climate-smart agricultural inputs such as drought-resilient seeds and multi-peril area yield insurance, which helps farmers recover from climate shocks.

 

“The investment aligns with BII’s mandate to support rural communities in underserved markets and build on recent investments in innovative agricultural companies such as AgDevCo and Johnvents,” he said.

 

Speaking, UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi, expressed pride in standing alongside British International Investment (BII) to announce a $7.5 million investment in Babban Gona, transforming smallholder agriculture in Nigeria.

 

She explained that the investment would scale an innovative, tech-enabled model that would provide farmers with access to finance, training, and services aimed at boosting yields, increasing incomes, and enhancing climate resilience.

 

Eshalomi recalled that from early-stage, UK support through Propcom Maikarfi to the latest milestone investment, Babban Gona’s growth was a clear example of the possibilities that come with investing in Nigeria’s agricultural future.

 

She said that the partnership underscored the UK-Nigeria commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, adding that she was eager to see the impact it would generate.

 

Commenting, Babban Gona’s Managing Director, Kola Masha, said the British government had played an instrumental role in the company’s journey by becoming the first institutional investor in its 2013 public debt raise.

 

He noted that more than a decade later, British International Investment’s decision to commit an amount ten times larger was a strong testament to their shared vision of improving the lives of smallholder farmers.

 

Masha expressed the organisation’s excitement towards partnering with BII in the next phase of its journey.

 

He said the organisation was eager to deepen its impact with the ambition of evolving into the world’s most impactful businesses. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Vivian Ihechu

World must learn from WWII, says Chinese scholar  
General News

World must learn from WWII, says Chinese scholar  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Busayo Onijala

Mr Zheng Haizhen, an international relations expert, says the world remains far from tranquil and humanity must continue to draw lessons and experiences from history.

 

 

 

Zheng is an Assistant Researcher at the Department for Global Governance and International Organisation Studies under the China Institute of International Studies.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 2025 marks 80 years since World War II ended and the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance.

 

 

 

The anniversary also coincides with 80 years since the founding of the United Nations, a milestone Chinese officials say reflects global commitment to peace and shared development.

 

 

 

To commemorate the anniversary, China has organised documentaries and events, including a military parade scheduled for Sept. 3 in Beijing.

 

 

 

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 26 foreign heads of state and government will attend China’s Victory Day commemorations.

 

 

 

Speaking to NAN, Zheng said the victory against fascism revealed the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity.

 

 

 

He explained that this concept, when applied to international relations, means the stability and development of each country are directly connected and mutually conditional with others.

 

 

 

This, he said, forms the basis for overall and symbiotic development among nations.

 

 

 

Zheng stressed that post-war experiences show that international imbalances and conflicts once thought irreconcilable can be resolved through development, fairness, justice, and policy adjustments.

 

 

 

Highlighting current challenges such as conflicts, regional tensions, and economic disparities, he called for renewed cooperation rooted in the UN Charter, fairness, and mutual respect.

 

 

 

“At present, only by transcending differences, strengthening solidarity, and shouldering shared responsibilities, can humanity find the only viable path forward,” Zheng said.

 

 

 

He described war as a mirror that helps people appreciate the value of peace.

 

 

 

According to him, the war against fascism eight decades ago was not only a defining 20th century moment but also a global struggle involving over 80 nations.

 

 

 

“The Chinese people, together with others worldwide, ultimately defeated fascism, achieving victory of justice over evil, and light over darkness,” Zheng said.

 

 

 

He acknowledged the roles of allied nations, including the Soviet Union, American volunteer forces, and international fighters from Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond.

 

 

 

“The victory was not only a triumph for China but also for the world, showcasing solidarity against shared threats,” he added.

 

 

 

Zheng urged countries to safeguard the hard-won peace achieved after World War II and to reject unilateralism and hegemonic actions undermining global stability. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited Kamal Tayo Oropo

Prioritise good relationships with God, citizens, Baptist seminary urges clergies 
General News

Prioritise good relationships with God, citizens, Baptist seminary urges clergies 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Olatunde Ajayi

 

 

The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Ogbomoso, has urged gospel ministers to prioritise building good relationships with God, family members, and other people around them.

 

NBTS President, Prof. Stephen Ayankeye, said this on Monday in Ogbomoso during a news conference on the forthcoming 2025 NBTS Ministers’ Conference, scheduled to hold from Sept. 8 to Sept. 11.

 

Ayankeye said that the theme of the conference is; “The Gospel Minister and His Relationships”.

 

He said the theme of the conferene was apt particularly in view of the current situation in Nigeria where some gospel ministers were found to be deficient in their relationship with God, family members, and ministerial colleagues.

 

The NBTS President said that the resultant effect of the situation has been the rising tension in intra-personal, interpersonal and human -divine relationships being witnessed in the society.

 

He further stated that the theme of the gathering shall be examined from various perspectives with the hope of enhancing peaceful co-existence in the home and society, which is a major part of the mission of the Seminary.

 

According to him, the conference will help gospel ministers to be further equipped and reinvigorated for Godly living and effective ministries.

 

Ayankeye said the conference, embedded with continuing education programme, would help to update the academic and professional knowledge of gospel ministers.

 

This, he said, would also sharpen their ministerial skills and provide them the opportunities for fellowship as well as denominational promotion.

 

“It is the responsibility of all and sundry to participate in the transformation of the society.

 

“This will be possible and faster if the gospel, which is God’s power unto salvation, is handled by vessels well molded,” he said.

 

Ayankeye urged political office holders and others in government to be more intentional in ensuring restoration of economic, social and educational vibrancy in Nigeria.

 

He suggested that more efforts should also be directed to ensuring security of life and property so that residents in Nigeria would experience a conducive atmosphere to face their work with peace of mind.

 

“The citizenry should also be law abiding and pray for our leaders regularly. Time has come when everyone should work hard to restore the glory of our nation, Nigeria,” he said.

 

Ayankeye also said that the conference, which would be held at NBTS Alumni Multipurpose Hall, would feature key programme personnel.

 

“We are expecting Reverend Israel Akanji, who doubles as the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention and Visitor to the Seminary; Rev. Dickson Madogwe, immediate past Vice President (ministerial) Nigerian Baptist Convention among others.

 

“We look forward to the active participation of all categories of gospel ministers: church pastors, specialised ministers on music, education, children and youths as well as evangelists and missionaries.

 

“Adequate security arrangements have been made to ensure safety of lives and properties of all conference participants, “the NBTS president said. (NAN) (www.namews.ng)

 

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Edo public grammar school wins South-South stem robotics challenge
Education

Edo public grammar school wins South-South stem robotics challenge

By Edeki Igafe

Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo in Edo, has emerged winner of a 16-week STEM training programme on robotics, defeating eight other secondary schools at the grand finale held in Effurun, Delta.

The programme, with the  theme: “Robotics for a Sustainable and Inclusive Skilled Economy”, was organised for selected schools across Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.

It was facilitated by Contego Servo, Odyssey Educational Foundation, and Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation, and sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Chieg Executive Officer of Phoenix Girls and Tech Foundation, Dr Elizabeth Eterigho, emphasised that robotics was not just a learning tool but a gateway to innovation and critical thinking, essential for the 21st-century workforce.

The training aimed to empower students with hands-on experience in robotics, while encouraging creativity and technical problem-solving.

“Over the past four months, we have embarked on an inspiring journey of discovery, innovation, and empowerment.
“Teachers and students from various secondary schools have come together not only to learn the fundamentals of robotics, programming, and applied STEM, but to envision a future where knowledge translates into skills, and skills translate into solutions.
“The projects and prototypes they will showcase today are not just exercises in robotics; they are expressions of creativity, teamwork, and determination that reflect the power of STEM education
in shaping lives and societies,” she said.
Eterigho said that the programme had proved that when given the opportunity, “our young people can dream, design, and deliver solutions that matter”.
Eterigho commended the sole-sponsor of the programme, NCDMB, saying that together, “we are laying the foundation
for an economy that values skills, sustainability and inclusiveness.”
Also, representatives of the NCDMB, Mr Weyinmi Ebiyon, said that the programme was designed to enhance quality of education in the country.
Ebiyon, on behalf of the board, commended the resource persons and trainers, and urged the trainees to put into proper use, the knowledge acquired from the training.
On her part, Mrs Rose Ezewu, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Delta, commended the NCDMB and the facilitators for putting the training together.
She assured that the state government would key into the programme to elevate the knowledge of students in the state in areas of STEM Robotic education.
NAN reports that Iwere Secondary School, Koko in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta, came second while Nana Model College, Warri, in Warri South Local Government Area took the third position.
Other schools with representatives were: Community Secondary School, Kalio-Ama Okrika and Community Secondary School, Rumuoro Ogbakiri Emuoha, both in Rivers.
They also included Ajoki Secondary School, Ajoki, in Edo, Okotie Eboh Grammar School, Sapele in Delta, CSS Okutukutu/Etegwe and Epie National High School Kpansia, Yenagoa, in Bayelsa.
Speaking on the sideline, Mr Okoh Isaac, teacher from Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo,  expressed gratitude to God for the victory.
Isaac commended the organisers and sponsor of the programme, while he urged government to invest more in technology.
Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
FG to unveil National Industrial Policy roadmap at West Africa IMT
Economy/Business

FG to unveil National Industrial Policy roadmap at West Africa IMT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Olawunmi Ashafa

 

 

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has announced plans to present strategies for the implementation of Nigeria’s new National Industrial Policy at the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit and Exhibition 2025.

 

 

 

The summit, organised by dmg Nigeria Events, will run from Oct. 21 to Oct. 23 at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.

 

 

 

It is expected to attract government officials, industry leaders, manufacturers, investors, and policymakers across the region for dialogue on accelerating industrial growth and strengthening trade integration in West Africa.

 

 

 

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos to unveil the agenda, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh, described the summit as a turning point for Africa’s industrial future.

 

 

 

“The West Africa IMT is not just a gathering, it is a platform to accelerate Africa’s march toward true industrialisation.

 

 

 

“For too long, our growth has been tied to raw material exports. The time has come to unlock the full potential of our industries, scale our MSMEs, and harness our abundant manufacturing resources,” Enoh said.

 

 

 

He emphasised that industrialisation remained central to job creation, skills development, and long-term prosperity, stressing that the Ministry was fully committed to ensuring the success of the summit.

 

 

 

The news conference also highlighted the critical themes for discussion, including regional trade integration under the AfCFTA, infrastructure development, access to finance, and technology adoption to boost manufacturing competitiveness.

 

 

 

Ms Wemimo Oyelana, Country Director for dmg Nigeria Events, said that the summit would provide a collaborative platform for the industrial ecosystem to build solutions, not just ideas.

 

 

 

“We are at a defining moment where the choices we make around manufacturing and technology will shape West Africa’s growth story for generations.

 

 

 

“This summit is about accelerating an industrial revolution that is sustainable, inclusive, and impactful,” Oyelana said.

 

 

 

The theme of the 2025 edition, “Accelerating West Africa’s Sustainable Industrial Revolution for Economic Prosperity”, will bring together stakeholders from energy, finance, infrastructure, logistics, technology, and trade to create actionable roadmaps for industrial transformation.

 

 

 

By convening diverse voices and fostering partnerships, West Africa IMT 2025 aims to position the region as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing and trade-driven growth. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Nigeria ready to lead, not just consume technology – Indigenous firm
Science & Tech

Nigeria ready to lead, not just consume technology – Indigenous firm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Christiana Fadare

 

An indigenous technology company, Arigo Technologies, says Nigeria and Africa have all it takes to become creators and leaders in the digital economy, not just consumers of foreign technology.

 

Dr Arinze Madueke, Founder of Arigo Technologies, made the statement during the simultaneous launch of seven distinct, multisector digital platforms by the company at an event, in Lagos on Saturday.

 

Madueke said the platforms were designed to address Africa’s unique challenges and prove that the continent could be positioned as a leader in global technology innovation and digital transformation.

 

“We are not just building apps; we are building solutions that create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, connect talents, and demonstrate that Africa can lead the world in innovation,” he stated.

 

He commended the Federal Government’s current efforts in supporting the tech ecosystem but called for more involvement in technology events for improved visibility, support, and encouragement for industry players.

 

Madueke also urged the government to provide a more enabling environment, including infrastructure and policy frameworks, to help innovators and startups thrive in the evolving technology-driven economy.

 

“I am delighted to have all of you here today in this epoch-making moment. You are part of history as we showcase years of research, innovation, and sacrifice,” he said.

 

He said that the platforms were developed over five years within the Arigo Innovation Lab, involving intense testing, intellectual property, unquantifiable investment, and personal sacrifice from the founding team.

 

“Some of the platforms stem from personal experience. For instance, CribsAndRides was born after I was scammed by a supposed land agent shortly after returning to Nigeria from abroad.

 

“Also, FutbolConect came from my journey as a football club owner.

 

“It addresses gaps in talent discovery, transfer processes, and agent reliability in the global football ecosystem,” Madueke added.

 

He encouraged Nigerian startups and tech enthusiasts to keep innovating, noting that Arigo’s innovation hub was opened to support entrepreneurs with ideas linked to technology and digital solutions.

 

Speaking at the event, sports journalist Mr Ralph George, revealed that FutbolConect had already onboarded more than 800 football clubs globally since its initial soft launch earlier in the year.

 

George noted that more than 35,000 players had registered on the app, with a total transfer value of 1.2 billion naira already executed through deals made via the platform and website.

 

He disclosed that more than 180,000 people had visited the site across various countries, made possible by an earlier launch of the platform in London on May 30, 2025.

 

“This platform helps bridge the gap where players, clubs, agents, and managers fall victim to fraud.

 

“Nigerian clubs spend millions bringing agents who often disappoint,” George said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event showcased Arigo’s flagship platforms, including MyArigo.com, a business marketplace and professional networking platform for African entrepreneurs and professionals.

 

Other platforms launched include FutbolConect.com (a global football talent hub), Miamour.me (a marriage and therapy platform), and CribsAndRides.com (a luxury real estate and auto marketplace).

 

Also launched were Ijeuwa.com (a storytelling and reward platform), EduGlobal.international (a blockchain-secured edtech portal), and Twy.app (an Agentic AI-powered brand for personal and business productivity).

 

The event attracted representatives from government agencies, financial institutions, universities, investors, FIFA-licensed football agents, and prominent figures from Nigeria’s entertainment and technology industries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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