NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Science & Tech

Experts urge technology centre to harness potential of blue economy

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By Stellamaris Ashinze

Some experts on Monday urged the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) to be more innovative while harnessing the potential of blue economy.

The experts gave the advice at the National Workshop on “Exploring the Potential of Blue Economy for Sustainable Development in Nigeria”, organised by NACETEM in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources to support economic growth, job creation, and the health of marine ecosystems.

In his remarks, Dr Alban Igwe, the Chief Executive Officer, Etcetera Consult Ltd., said NACETEM could harness the potential in the blue economy by leveraging its innovative expertise.

According to Igwe, the worldwide ocean economy is valued at about 15 trillion dollars per annum, making the seventh largest economy in the world and 350 million jobs worldwide are linked to fisheries.

He presented a paper titled “Innovation in Blue Economy Development in Nigeria’’.

According to him, maritime education and research are the bedrock of blue economy and NACETEM can be a major partner of the blue economy.

“NACETEM is like an oilwell and if you do not exploit it, it will be in the sea waiting. NACETEM is also at the heart of solving Nigeria’s problem.

“When the wind of change blows, some people build walls and others build windmill, in the academic world the slogan is either published or perished.

“While in the business world, it is innovative or die and NACETEM has to explore its innovative expertise to explore the opportunities of blue economy for the economic growth of the nation,’’ he said.

Also speaking, Prof. Charles Asenime, School of Transport, Lagos State University, said that the blue economy is the turnkey of economic development.

Asenime said that if government gave more attention to its primary and secondary component, it had the potential to remove the country’s economy from recession.

According to him, it also has potential to reduce the restlessness of youths, improve their skill for local and international use.

“The financial sector has a role to play in the blue economy.”

The don while highlighting the challenges of blue economy as paucity of funds in ship building, encouraged NACETEM to come up with innovation.

The Director-General, NACETEM, Dr Olusola Odunsanya, emphasised that the marine aquaculture economy was a well thought out idea by the federal government to open up a new business opportunity.

Odunsanya said that the business of the marine aquaculture economy was all encompassing, adding that it required new thought to look into.

“It requires new thought to look into so as to understand the biology, to map and collect information that is already available in our marine environment.

“Before one can explore the value in any given environment, one must understand it and the aquaculture economy has yet to be understood.

“We need to improve the vessels that enter the marine environment. So, we started a discussion with West Africa Ventures and talking about boat building, introducing fiberglass boats, introducing aluminium, welding and all of that to improve the boating environment.

‘’We started thinking about recreational facilities that go beyond using vessels to go on the waters, but for people to use the marine environment as a learning tool to create quizzes and programmes for children.

‘’So, we are looking at the biology of the marine environment. We have ceded the extractive parts to those who are better at that. But there is a whole economy apart from extraction, ecotourism and all of that, that is around the biology of the blue and marine economy,’’ he said.

The DG expressed optimism that the workshop would prepare NACETEM for 2025, to take deep dives into marine and blue economy. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

General News

FG inaugurates NJFP Steering Committee to boost employments

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By Salif Atojoko

Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the Steering Committee of the Nigeria Jubilee Programme (NJFP), as part of measures to scale up employments and enhance the employability of fresh graduates.

Shettima inaugurated the Steering Committee of the NJFP at the Presidential Villa on Monday

He described the programme as a decisive step by the administration of President Bola Tinubu toward equipping Nigerian youths with the required tools to become employees, innovators and leaders in their chosen careers.

NJFP, an initiative of the Nigerian government being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with seed investment by the European Union (EU), is coordinated by the office of the Vice President.

It was established to address challenges confronting Nigerian graduates in accessing meaningful jobs.

“The scheme is also meant to develop, test and deploy a scalable model that will effectively tackle the root causes of growing unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria. 

“The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme is more than just an employment initiative—it is a catalyst for broader engagement in youth-driven innovation, employability, and entrepreneurship.

“Programmes like this are a decisive step toward equipping our youth with the tools to become not just employees but also innovators and leaders in their respective fields,” said Shettima.

According to him, the NJFP has made commendable progress, and it is now time to build on that foundation to provide a wider coverage through innovative adaptations.

He said such innovative adaptations would ensure that the programme did not just provide job placements but also emphasised the development of key skills through practical, real-world applications.

Shettima implored stakeholders and development partners to act cooperatively to combat the menace of unemployment.

“Unemployment remains a critical challenge for Nigeria, and youth unemployment is an even more pressing concern. As a government, we fully recognise the far-reaching consequences that economic downturns have on young people.

“Prolonged periods of unemployment or underemployment can hinder future income potential and significantly diminish career opportunities. This is precisely why today’s gathering is so important.

“We cannot afford to delay; we must act collectively to tackle this issue before it severely undermines our future.

“It is, therefore, with a deep sense of responsibility and urgency that I convene this inauguration of the Steering Committee for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP),” said Shettima.

Earlier, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, commended the Federal Government for its commitment to advancing Nigerian human capital development, particularly youth development.

She noted that many young Nigerians had been breaking barriers, opening up new frontiers based on their talent – not just locally but also on the global stage.

“Young Nigerians are demonstrating to the world that they have the capacity and ingenuity to transform not just their own lives but also those of their communities and Africa at large. Nigeria does not carry last,” she stated.

According to Attafuah, NJFP seeks to champion home-grown talent, connecting young Nigerians with local opportunities through 12 months of placement where they apply their expertise to gain market-ready skills.

On his part, Mr Massino de Luca, the European Union Head of Cooperation, said the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme was a flagship that generated pride and excitement, not only here in their Abuja office but also in the EU Headquarters.

He maintained that youth involvement and focus remained the ace of the EU’s action in Nigeria, even as he said NJFP typified the EU’s commitment to the youth agenda in Nigeria and the world.

He said the fundamental aspect of the programme was finance sustainability, which the EU had funded with 44 million Euros.

He added that Nigerians and European businesses had both benefited from the programme and since its inception, it had built strong relationships and partnerships and empowered thousands of fellows.

Shedding light on the impact of the programme on the Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development, said the NJFP was an initiative which aligned with the ministry’s initiative called the work-experience-programme.

According to her, through the programme, graduates are fixed into jobs and there is an opportunity to upscale and improve it with the NJFP programme.

She said her Ministry had the agenda to create 10 million jobs by 2027, adding that as a ministry they cannot achieve that alone.

Also speaking, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, said a total of 3,100 youths had been trained, far below the estimated target.

She attributed this to a number of reasons, including COVID-19 and the transition process of the immediate past administration.

“Seeing what the head of UNDP has brought in and the commitment of the EU, I am quite optimistic that we’ll do much more,” she added. (NAN) 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

Tinubu urges collaborative action to drive economic growth

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has called for increased cooperation among government agencies, the private sector and international partners to boost economic growth, enhance competitiveness and maintain stability in the country.

The President said this during the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on Monday in Abuja.

He made the call on the heels of emerging positive economic indicators, suggesting that recent reforms by the administration had begun to yield positive results.

Tinubu outlined his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to create an environment that fostered sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.

“As a nation, we must prioritise economic diversification,” Tinubu stated, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to focus on sectors that could offer inclusive and sustainable growth, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy.

The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, addressed key economic challenges, detailing ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, streamline regulations, and enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

“We are currently completing key infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and power plants that will enhance connectivity and productivity.

“We are harmonising regulatory processes to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles that have long stifled entrepreneurship and innovation,” the President noted.

He also highlighted recent economic measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates, as part of a broader strategy to stabilise the macroeconomic environment.

“These are all part of a broader effort to restore balance to the economy and ensure long-term stability,” he explained.

Addressing the critical issue of economic inclusivity, President Tinubu said, “Our competitiveness is not just about improving our standing on global indices.

“It is about ensuring that the Nigerian economy is inclusive—where small and medium-sized enterprises can thrive alongside large corporations, and where every citizen, regardless of location or background, can benefit from economic opportunities.”

The President assured that, “With the right policies, the right partnerships, and the right level of commitment, Nigeria can emerge stronger, more competitive, and more resilient than ever before.”

Earlier, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, reiterated the effectiveness of recent government reforms, stating that “there are significant pieces of evidence that reforms and investments are working.

“These governance and institutional reforms have helped to improve our macro-economic performance.

“Our GDP has been enhanced from 2.98 per cent growth in first quarter of 2024 to 3.19 per cent in quarter two of 2024, inflation is trending downwards while external reserves are improving.”

The minister also appealed for public support, saying, “We seek cooperation and understanding of the broad spectrum of the citizenry as there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel.”

Also, Mr Indermit Gill, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at the World Bank, emphasised Nigeria’s crucial role in the continent’s economic landscape.

Gill said, “Given the size and significance, Africa goes where Nigeria goes. Africa rising simply translates to Nigeria rising.”

He, however, cautioned about the impact of inflation on citizens, stressing the importance of maintaining recent policy changes.

“The President’s key signature policies – the unification of multiple exchange rates and elimination of oil subsidy – need to be sustained,” he said.

In his welcome address, Mr Niyi Yusuf, Chairman of the NESG, called for continued efforts to strengthen the economy.

“The task before us is to forge decisive reforms that will drive us out of the economic challenges facing us. Since COVID-19, our economy has shown resilience but still fragile.

“We must take additional steps to make sure that gains in FDI and foreign exchange markets are not reversed,” Yusuf stated. (NAN) 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

Tinubu demands justice over inhuman treatment of Super Eagles

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has urged the disciplinary board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to conduct a thorough investigation into the inhuman treatment endured by the Super Eagles at a Libyan airport.

He said CAF should take appropriate action against those who wilfully violated its statutes and regulations.

The President made the remarks in a statement by Mr Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser, Information and Strategy, on Monday in Abuja.

Tinubu, who welcomed the safe return of the Super Eagles, decried their harrowing experience, which prompted the withdraw of the team from a scheduled match on Tuesday.

The President commended the proactive coordination between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of the players.

“President Tinubu applauds the players for keeping their spirit alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.

“The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together and views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.

“He fervently calls on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents in the future.” (NAN) 

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

General News

FRC, institute advocate significance of public sector governance code

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) have underscored the significance of the public sector governance code.

The code ia to enhance ethical and effective leadership across all levels of authority.

The two organisations gave the advice at the CIoD Fellows’ Investiture Ceremony and Awards Night on Thursday night in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event was “Public Sector Code – The Route to Public Sector Excellence and National Development”.

They said that the governance code would support the achievement of ethical culture, good performance, effective control, and legitimacy leading to all round economic growth and stability.

Dr Rabiu Olowo, Executive Secretary, FRC, said that steering Nigeria to greater prosperity and stability hinged predominantly on ensuring that good governance structures and practices were set up in public institutions.

Olowo was represented by Head, Directorate of Corporate Governance, FRC, Mrs Comfort Osondu.

According to him, good governance of public sector entities is essential to their effectiveness, particularly as the public sector is the engine room of national development.

He said that the effectiveness of Nigeria’s public institutions was a critical factor in determining whether the aspirations of the people are met, remain stagnated or fall short of collective potentials.

Olowo said that over the last decade, starting from 2013, the FRC had made significant strides in developing comprehensive codes of governance for the private, public, and Non-For-Profit Sectors.

He said that a draft code was currently in the exposure and stakeholder engagement phase, preparatory for the final release of the code.

“The draft code is based on the principles of good governance, which include legitimacy, direction, performance, accountability, fairness, and integrity.

“It also adopts a holistic approach to public sector governance, recognising the interdependence and interrelatedness of the various elements and actors involved.

“Some of the key features of the draft code include promotion of transparency and accountability, risk based governance, emphasis on ethical conduct, values and culture, inclusiveness within government institutions.

“When public sector officials adhere to a code of conduct that prioritises the nation’s welfare above personal or sectional interests, it paves the way for sustainable development,” he said.

Olowo said that achieving public sector excellence was not without challenges of bureaucracy, inadequate resources, and, in some cases, a culture of complacency.

He, however, said that the challenges were surmountable as with the right leadership, adequate training, and strict enforcement of the public sector code, Nigeria could begin to reverse these trends.

He called on directors and newly inducted fellows of the institute to embrace the role of leadership by advocating for the proper implementation of the public sector code and holding officials accountable to it.

Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, President, Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria, said that the CIoD was always been at the forefront of promoting good governance and ethical leadership.

He urged the newly inducted fellows to foster a culture of excellence in the boardroom and beyond by championing good corporate governance, sound business ethics and exemplary leadership qualities.

Borodo said that as the nation navigated the complex challenges of the 21st century, the effectiveness of the public sector governance was paramount.

He said that a well-governed public sector was the cornerstone of sustainable economic growth, social development, and overall national prosperity.

“The introduction of this public sector governance code is long overdue and I commend Dr Olowo’s commitment to its development and introduction to guide and support global best practice in our public sector.

“Today’s ceremony is not only a celebration of individual achievement but also a testament to the collective pursuit of excellence in the profession.

“I encourage our new fellows to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability.

“I am confident that your contributions will be invaluable in driving positive change and ensuring the success of our public and private sector,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Kadiri AbdulrahmanI’m

Entertainment

Nollywood federation seeks comprehensive review of national film policy

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

The Federation of Registered Guilds and Associations in Nollywood has called for a comprehensive review of the national film policy to reflect today’s realities and dynamic nature of the industry.

 

 

 

Dr Victor Okhai, Chairman of the federation, made the call during a news conference on Thursday in Lagos.

 

 

 

He said to attract investment and grow the industry, policies that would foster a conducive environment for growth must be implemented.

 

 

 

“Imagine a Nollywood where every talent, from actors to directors, from scriptwriters to set designers, can thrive and reach their full potential.

 

 

 

“A Nollywood where our stories are told with authenticity; where our culture is celebrated; and where our industry is recognised for its excellence on the world stage. This is the vision of the federation

 

 

 

He said going forward, the federation would intensify efforts in engaging government and financial institutions on pertinent challenges within the industry.

 

 

 

He pledged the federation’s commitment toward repositioning the industry.

 

 

 

Okhai said it was also the duty of the federation to promptly address inter-guild conflicts as the case may be.

 

 

 

According to him, the federation comprised of leaders of the 18 registered guilds and associations within the industry.

 

 

 

“Today, we stand at the dawn of a new era for Nollywood. For the first time in our storied history, guilds and associations from the North, East, West, and South of Nigeria have come together under one unified body.

 

 

 

“This union is not just a symbolic gesture, it is a powerful testament to our collective strength, our shared vision, and our unwavering commitment to the future of Nollywood.

 

 

 

“The federation is more than just a name. It is our opportunity to work closely with government bodies and organisations both locally and internationally.

 

 

 

“As a federation, we will advocate tax holidays from the government, making it easier for new and existing productions to thrive.

 

 

 

“Accessible loans and grants will be pursued to support our filmmakers and creatives. We are advocating an Arts Endowment Fund to be established, to provide financial backing for ambitious projects and emerging talents,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

He said that the federation would work in harmony, seize every opportunity to transform dreams into reality, and shape the future of Nollywood.

 

 

 

“Our industry has faced numerous challenges, but it is in our challenges that we find our strength.

 

 

 

“Together, we will overcome obstacles, advocate better conditions for all our members, and ensure that the world recognises the brilliance of Nollywood.

 

 

 

“We will leverage our diverse talents and experiences to create a more robust and dynamic industry.

 

 

 

“Let us move forward with determination and purpose, knowing that our unity is our greatest asset. Together, we will write the next chapter of Nollywood’s story, a story of collaboration, innovation, and success,” she said.

 

 

 

Okhai noted that forging these partnerships, the federation would enhance the industry’s creative economy, secure better opportunities for members, and establish Nollywood as a global powerhouse.

 

 

 

“Our unity will drive job creation, foster innovation, and create opportunities that were once unimaginable.

 

 

 

“Today, we make history. Today, we become pioneers of a movement that will contribute to the growth of our nation’s creative economy.

 

 

 

“With The federation, we are not just participants in an industry; we are leaders, visionaries and champions of our culture.

 

 

 

Urging members of the guilds and associations to work unanimously in advancing the industry, Okhai said with unity among guilds, challenges would be conquered.

 

 

 

“A true-life story that epitomises our potential is the international success of “The Wedding Party”.

 

 

 

“This film, produced by a diverse team of talented individuals from various parts of Nigeria, showcases how collaboration within Nollywood can lead to groundbreaking success.

 

 

 

“The Wedding Party” not only broke box office records but also put Nollywood on the global map, proving that when we come together, we can achieve extraordinary feats. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

General News

Chamber advocates stronger business relations, healthy living

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has emphasised the importance of promoting stronger business relations alongside health and wellness in personal and professional spheres.

Mr Uwamai Igein, Chairman Nigerian-British Golf, said this at a news conference on Wednesday in Lagos.

The conference was to announce the chamber’s upcoming Nigerian-British Golf Tournament.

Igein said NBCC recognised that strong business relationships were founded not only on economic exchange but also on shared values that bound partners, stakeholders and innovators.

He stressed the importance of health and fitness in business success, noting that the fast-paced, high-stakes world of business required business operators to be at their peak in every area of life, including physical health.

He noted that regular exercise had been proven to improve not just physical fitness but also mental clarity, creativity, focus and resilience, all of which, he said, were critical components of business success.

Igein added that golf fostered the attributes, describing it is a game that required strategy, precision and endurance.

“It demands discipline and focus, as each swing, each shot, and each decision must be made with care.

“In many ways, golf mirrors the very qualities required to excel in business which are foresight, precision, patience, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

“It teaches us that in business, as in sports, success is rarely achieved through short cuts but through careful planning, execution, and endurance,” he said.

Igein added that beyond the metaphorical lessons, the physical benefits of exercise could not be overlooked.

He noted that stress, long hours of work and sedentary lifestyles had become common in the business world.

These, he said, could lead to burnout, poor decision-making, and eventually decrease in productivity.

According to him, exercising regularly strengthens bodies and mental fortitude, and enhances cognitive function while sharpening memory and improving ability to concentrate.

“These benefits are particularly important in today’s rapidly-evolving business environment, where agility, creativity and critical thinking are more important than ever before.

“By staying fit and active, we give ourselves the mental edge needed to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

“For NBCC members and our partners in the UK, I believe that promoting health and wellness through sports like golf is a powerful message.

“It is a statement that success in business should never come at the expense of personal health, but rather, that personal health should be a key driver of professional success,” he said.

Igein added that while the golf tournament slated for Nov. 8 at the Ikeja Golf Club emphasised health and wellness, it was equally about fostering stronger business ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

According to him, the Nigerian-British golf tournament offers a unique platform where business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from both nations can engage, network and collaborate in a relaxed but stimulating environment.

He said the tournament would serve as an excellent opportunity for business leaders from Nigeria and United Kingdom to strengthen relationships, explore opportunities for trade, and discuss how to mutually benefit from the vast economic potential existing between the two nations.(NAN)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Education

Don advocates integrated curriculum in tertiary institutions

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu/Umar Sumayah

Prof. Clement Kolawole, Vice Chancellor, Trinity University, Yaba, has called for integrated curriculum in tertiary institutions.

The vice chancellor made the call while speaking at the second edition of the institution’s Campus Flaws Career Guidance event on Wednesday in Lagos.

The event was in conjunction with the Etiquette Poise and Protocol Resource (EPRA).

Represented by Dr Modupe Olatunji, Dean, Medical and Applied Sciences of the institution, Kolawole said such integrated curriculum would equip undergraduates with critical employability skills.

He added that this would go a long way in preparing and enabling graduates in navigating the current economic reality.

“We remain focused on ensuring that students are well-prepared for higher education and life beyond the classroom.

”We are also committed in producing ‘Trinity Stars’, individuals who excel academically, possess impeccable character and ready to strive.

”We also have the Trinity University Skills Acquisition Academy, in addition to the 19 fully accredited programmes across disciplines, such as Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Biotechnology, Mass Communication and Information Technology amongst others.

“With this programme in place, students will pursue their main course of study and as well, gain entrepreneurial and marketable skills through partnership with leading institutions.

“Trinity University and EPRA’s commitment to cultivating essential values like culture, etiquette, poise and decorum, remains steadfast and we are exited to provide a platform that enables students learn these soft skills,” Kolawole added.

Also speaking, Mr Olutunji Oladimeji, Chairman EPRA, said that the ‘transition to campus life’ was a significant milestone, filled with new experiences and challenges, hence the need to create a forum for mentorship as guide for students.

According to him, such mentorship will create an enabling environment as well as provide a bridge to a flawless future for students.

He added that the reason for the initiative was to ensure that nothing went wrong, goes wrong, noting that it was all about real life events witnessed on campuses.

“This event will serve as a roadmap, charting a course away from common campus pitfalls toward successful academic journey,” he said.

Earlier, Mr David Oyejide, Registrar of the university, described the programme as part of its corporate social responsibility to the young ones, guiding students on career choice, living right and positive behaviour in the university.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event which featured career talk, stage play, dancing competitions and facility tour, had over 740 senior secondary school students, teachers and movie actors in attendance. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Tayo Ikujuni

General News

Customs Boss commends Ogun II Command for generating N20bn

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By Abiodun Lawal

The Assistant Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) in charge of Southwest, Saidu Yusuf, has commended the Ogun 11 Area Command for generating over N20 billion between January and August.

Yusuf gave the commendation when he paid an on-the-spot visit to the Ogun 11 Area Command headquarters in Abeokuta on Thursday.

He acknowledged the improvement of Area 11 Command in Abeokuta, noting that management was quite happy with the performance under the leadership of the Controller.

“We just reviewed the performance , so far, up to August, the command has been able to generate over N20 billion.

“When you compare it to the corresponding period last year, we had about N14 billion.

“We are all aware of the economic situation in the country and the exchange rate and all that. Even with that, the command has been able to perform wonderfully well,” he said.

He explained that the customs service would continue to work in synergy with stakeholders, saying that the service was ready to adopt all available technology devices to ensure safety of borders.

He warned those contemplating on bringing any illicit drugs or illegal firearms into the country to have a rethink.

The assistant comptroller general added that the current leadership of NSC remained active and effective in intelligence gathering.

He noted that the Customs was having synergy with other sister agencies to ensure that there is effective control of the border to end illegal activities.

“We are all aware the borders are porous, and the only way we can monitor those borders is by using modern technology.

“You know, before you use all this modern technology, training and re-training have to be embarked on, which Nigeria customs service is actively involved.

“I can tell anybody contemplating on bringing in arms or any illicit arms, ammunition, drugs into Nigeria should have a rethink,” he said.

Earlier, the Controller of Area 2 command, Bisi Alade, appreciated Yusuf for his commendation.

He said that officers at the command would continue to discharge their duties effectively. (NAN)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Health

Fight against HIV/AIDS not over – PEPFAR

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By Oluwafunke Ishola

 

The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) says the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over, calling for a sustained global response against the disease.

Its Global Aids Coordinator and Senior Bureau Official for Global Health Security and Diplomacy, Amb. John Nkengasong, said this during a virtual news briefing on Thursday.

The briefing was centered on “The Future Role of The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in Africa”.

Nkengasong acknowledged that efforts to control HIV/AIDS had recorded tremendous success with lifesaving impacts across communities.

He, however, cautioned that HIV/AIDS should not be seen or termed a disease of the past.

“It’s a disease of the present. And we should be very careful not to be vulnerable to our success.

“We’ve done tremendous labour in controlling HIV. The fight is not over.

“Just last year alone in Botswana, the country recorded 4,300 new cases of infection, mainly among young people.

“I don’t think in this country we recorded 4,000 cases of mpox or any other emerging disease. So I think HIV is still there.

“HIV is still killing people. We know that on UNAIDS data. Last year alone, there were 650,000 people in the world that died of HIV/AIDS, and 60 per cent of those were in Africa.

“And I don’t know that mpox has killed, over the course of one year, 250,000 people. That would be 60 per cent of the deaths. So HIV is still there,” he said.

Nkengasong, a Virologist noted that HIV was a hidden pandemic that doesn’t disrupt, warning that it spreads silently in communities.

“So, because of that, it’s not so visible. And because of the remarkable success that we’ve achieved over the past two decades, we do not go to the clinics and see the ugly face of HIV all over.

“So, because of that, it’s fair to say that it’s not as visible in the political arena of many countries as it was before.

“And that’s one of the reasons that I’m leading a tour of the continent to meet with the highest leadership of each country to say, look, we’ve made progress, but the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over.

“We need to continue to commit our own resources to the fight as we commit the U.S. resources to it.

“We need to shape our programmes in a way that they can respond to the needs of today and fill the inequity gap that exists in young children, adolescent girls, and young women, and key populations,” he said.

Nkengasong stressed the need to sustain the response against HIV to prevent a resurgence of the disease.

 

He disclosed that his top priority was to continue to work with the U.S. Congress to get a five-year reauthorisation for the PEPFAR programme.

 

“I think my top priority is to work with everyone, mainly Congress, to get a clean five-year reauthorisation.

“That way, it can enable us to have a sustained conversation with the partner countries and say, look, let’s approach our journey to 2030 in the spirit of joint responsibility and joint accountability.

“The U.S. government is not transactional in the fight against HIV. We have not. We are committed and proud partners.

 

“We’ve done that successfully and impactfully for the last 21 years, and we are not going to give up.

“The U.S. has been in the business of foreign assistance since 1961 under President Kennedy, and I don’t think that foreign assistance, including foreign assistance for her programme, is going to be cut up.

“How prepared it looks post-2030 will depend on our success and will depend on several other determinants, which I cannot predict what will happen in 2030 where I’m sitting now,” Nkengasong said.

Highlighting PEPFAR’s success, Nkengasong said PEPFAR’s investments had strengthened the systems that drive effective, efficient, and sustainable health care.

According to him, PEPFAR has assisted in training 340,000 healthcare workers to deliver and improve HIV care and other health services, creating a lasting health system for partner countries to confront other current and future health challenges.

“A lot of the COVID-19 successes that we saw in Africa were the backbone of what PEPFAR has done.

“So, we are very proud partners in strengthening health systems on the continent.

“We would never have achieved the goals of saving 25 million lives, preventing 5.5 million children born free of HIV without a strong system and capacity development on the continent,” he said.

Nkengasong said PEPFAR had invested over $110 billion in Africa in the last 21 years while restating its continued commitment to achieving epidemic control among children, adolescent girls, young women, and men.

He said PEPFAR would enhance political awareness, sustain funding, adapt its programmes and strengthen health systems against HIV/AIDS in Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that PEPFAR is a U.S. government initiative to address the global HIV/AIDS epidemic and help save the lives of those suffering from the disease.

The U.S. government investment through PEPFAR is the largest commitment by any nation to address a single disease in history.

The programme has saved over 25 million lives, prevented millions of HIV infections, and accelerated progress toward controlling the global HIV/AIDS pandemic in more than 50 countries.

PEPFAR, first created in 2003 by President George Bush, has been reauthorised three times.

According to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Africa bears the heaviest burden of HIV/AIDS globally.

UNAIDS said that 4000 adolescent girls and young women acquired HIV every single week, and 3,100 of those infected are from Africa. (NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

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