News Agency of Nigeria
Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art
Culture & Tourism

Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

Ecobank Nigeria says it is deepening its commitment to cultural development with the hosting of an art exhibition that celebrates the creativity and legacies of Nigeria’s most revered artists.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exhibition, titled “Enduring Legacy: A Collector’s Tribute to Masters”, which began on Saturday will run for three weeks at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.

 

 

 

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs Omoboye Odu, Head of SMEs, Ecobank Nigeria, said the project reflects the bank’s dedication to supporting African creativity and heritage while empowering the creative economy.

 

 

 

“This exhibition is more than an event; it is a love project. It demonstrates Ecobank’s role not just as a financial institution but as a patron of African art and cultural excellence,” Odu said.

 

 

 

She noted that the exhibition, organised in partnership with Artcada Gallery, Krabhouse Gallery, and EPAC Studios, would feature works by masters such as Bruce Onobrakpeya, Kolade Oshinowo, Jimoh Buraimoh, Muraina Oyelami, and Moses Umukoro.

 

 

 

According to her, the bank’s cultural initiatives align with its corporate social responsibility focus on economic empowerment and cultural preservation.

 

 

 

“We have consistently promoted Nigerian creativity through past events such as Achebe in Lagos, the +234 Art Fair, and Oja Oge, which spotlighted young artists, fashion designers, and SMEs.

 

 

 

“This exhibition continues that journey of projecting Nigeria’s talents to the world,” she added.

 

 

 

Odu explained that more than 700 works of art would be displayed, offering art lovers, collectors, scholars, and cultural custodians an opportunity to experience Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage.

 

 

 

The curator of the exhibition, Adekepemi Aderemi of Artcada Gallery, described the showcase as a tribute to Nigeria’s revered masters whose works had preserved the nation’s heritage across generations.

 

 

 

She said the exhibition features rare pieces from a private archive of nearly 30,000 works, some dating back to 1864, highlighting the evolution of Nigerian modern and contemporary art.

 

 

 

Aderemi commended the bank for supporting cultural preservation, stressing that the initiative reinforces art’s value as both an economic driver and a custodian of identity.

 

 

 

The Chief Executive Officer of Krabhouse Gallery, Andrew Ine, said Nigerian art remains significantly undervalued despite its global potential.

 

 

 

He noted that the sector could conservatively be worth 30 per cent of the 62 billion dollar African art market if given proper visibility.

 

 

 

He stressed that exhibitions and cultural events were crucial to unlocking that value.

 

 

 

“In other countries, people take time off just to enjoy exhibitions because it brings spiritual fulfillment.

 

 

 

“That is where we are headed in Nigeria, a cultural awakening about the value of art,” Ine said.

 

 

 

According to him, the proliferation of new galleries in Lagos reflects a growing appreciation of art as both a cultural and economic asset.

 

 

 

He added that passion for art must be balanced with economic realities, noting that building the Nigerian art economy requires resilience, vision, and partnerships that sustain artists and their families. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Insurance brokers council pledges support for fintech adoption, financial inclusion
Economy/Business

Insurance brokers council pledges support for fintech adoption, financial inclusion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

The Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has expressed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote fintech adoption and financial inclusion in the country.

 

 

 

Mr Babatunde Oguntade, President of the council, said this during the second Business Journal Fintech and Financial Inclusion Roundtable on Friday in Lagos.

 

 

 

Oguntade was represented by Mrs Bukola Ifemade, former Chairman, Lagos Area Committee, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers.

 

 

 

He said fintech presented vast opportunities for the growth of Nigeria’s financial sector, especially in expanding access to insurance services.

 

 

 

He described the theme of the conference, “Fintech and Financial Inclusion: The Opportunity and Challenges for Nigeria”, as timely and relevant, given the rapidly changing financial landscape.

 

 

 

“As industry stakeholders, we are committed to working together to address the challenges and opportunities presented by fintech and financial inclusion.

 

 

 

“We believe that collaboration and innovation are key to unlocking new opportunities and addressing the challenges that lie ahead.

 

 

 

“The insurance industry plays a vital role in promoting financial stability and security, and we look forward to working with other stakeholders to drive growth, inclusion, and innovation.

 

 

 

“On the part of Insurance Brokers, our council is ready to collaborate and encourage all initiative toward encouraging fintech in insurance operations. We see it as an enabler of our practice,” he said.

 

 

 

Commenting on the recently signed Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025 (NIIRA 2025), Oguntade described it as a significant milestone that would create a more conducive environment for industry players.

 

 

 

“This Act promises to promote a more conducive business environment for insurance professionals and the industry at large.

 

 

 

“With its emphasis on digitisation, compulsory coverage, and strict enforcement of claims settlement timelines, the NIIRA 2025 is poised to drive innovation, expand access to insurance services, and enhance consumer protection.

 

 

 

“However, as we leverage fintech to drive growth and inclusion, we must also prioritise data protection and cybersecurity,” he said.

 

 

 

He commended the Nigeria Data Protection Commission for enforcing compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.

 

 

 

He assured Nigerians of insurance brokers commitment to safeguarding customers’ sensitive information.

 

 

 

“We believe collaboration and innovation are key to unlocking new opportunities. On the part of insurance brokers, our council is ready to collaborate and encourage all initiatives that integrate fintech into insurance operations,” he said.

 

 

 

He urged stakeholders to work together to deepen financial stability and inclusion.

 

 

 

Speaking earlier, Dr Biodun Adedipe, Chief Consultant, B. Adedipe & Associates Ltd. advised policymakers to prioritise clarity, digital identity systems, and regulatory sandboxes to accelerate fintech growth and financial inclusion in Nigeria.

 

 

 

He noted that clear and consistent policies were necessary to provide certainty for investors and operators in the financial technology space.

 

 

 

According to him, the development of a robust national digital identity framework will serve as the backbone for inclusion, enabling seamless verification and access to financial services.

 

 

 

Adedipe also advised fintechs to build their operations on trust, transparency, and affordability to deepen financial inclusion and sustain public confidence.

 

 

 

“Banks are advised to embrace collaboration and adopt hybrid models to remain competitive in the evolving financial ecosystem.

 

 

 

“Likewise, investors are suppose to support financial literacy, empower women, and promote rural finance as pathways to inclusive growth,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Organisation seeks stronger laws, grassroots education to improve safety
General News

Organisation seeks stronger laws, grassroots education to improve safety

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

Improving safety in Nigeria requires leadership commitment, stronger laws, grassroots education and collaboration among governments, the private sector, academia and professional bodies, the World Safety Organisation (WSO) has said.

Dr Soji Olalokun, Country Director of WSO Nigeria and Executive Director of SafERR Networks, said this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

He said that Nigeria still faced major challenges in safety practices, especially lack of awareness and a reactive culture toward safety.

“Our concern is that safety is still treated as a box-ticking exercise rather than a way of life.

“Many accidents we see are avoidable if there is awareness, training and strong enforcement of safety rules,” Olalokun said.

He said that WSO would host the eighth edition of its International Conference and World Safety Awards (WoSAwards) on Sept. 11 and  Sept. 12 in Ikeja in an effort to promote safety practices.

Olalokun said that the conference would have the theme: “PROGRESS: Promoting Resilient Occupational, Governance, Risk Management, and Environmental Safety Standards”.

He said that more than 2,000 safety, security, health  and environment professionals, policymakers, regulators, academics and industry leaders across the world were being expected to participate in the event.

He said that the conference would feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical paper presentations and investiture of SafERR Global Ambassadors, as well as induction of new members into the SafERR Global Institute.

According to him, a major highlight will be the WoSAwards Gala Night, where more than 32 corporate organisations and 31 individuals would be honoured for their contributions to advancing safety, security, health, environment and sustainability.

He said that participants would benefit from free training on emergency response.

Olalokun described the conference as a platform to educate, recognise and empower.

“It is not just another conference. It is a movement for change. We want to create heroes out of safety champions, equip Nigerians with life-saving skills, and promote a new culture where safety becomes natural for everyone,” he said.

He said that the impact would be both immediate and long-term, as participants would gain hands-on knowledge to save lives, while industries and communities would benefit from improved safety practices.

“A safer Nigeria is a more productive and economically-viable Nigeria.

“Reduced accidents mean less downtime, lower healthcare costs and a more attractive environment for investors,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Holyman urges Nigerians to seek reggae for spiritual guidance, solutions
Entertainment

Holyman urges Nigerians to seek reggae for spiritual guidance, solutions

 

 

By Joan Odafe

Rastafarian artiste, Bob Holyman, has called on Nigerians to embrace reggae music as a source of spiritual guidance and solutions to the country’s challenges.

 

Holyman made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

 

The reggae artiste, who described his music as spiritual, and flowing from an innate connection with God, said the link sets him apart from those who merely adopt Rastafarianism as a lifestyle.

 

“My music serves as a platform to share messages and insights, guided by the spirit of God.

 

“This connection empowers me to stay truthful and authentic in my words and actions,” he said.

 

Holyman said his song, ‘Where We Dey Go’, released in 2024, reflects his concern over post-election experiences in Nigeria.

 

According to him, politicians often prioritise the poor during campaigns but abandon them after assuming office, which triggers a cycle of poverty and suffering.

 

The musician said he asks God in his daily prayers to raise leaders who will empathise with the masses and work to ease their struggles.

 

Citing late global legends such as Bob Marley and Lucky Dube, he said reggae songs were used to preach unity, redemption and address social issues.

 

Holyman also highlighted Nigerian pioneer reggae artistes, including Majek Fashek and Ras Kimono, who blended reggae with African influences while advocating cultural identity and social change.

 

“Reggae offers spiritual guidance and solutions to our nation’s problems.

 

“By embracing these messages, we can foster positive change and unity in our society,” he said.

 

He urged Nigerians to listen more closely to reggae music because of its timeless spiritual messages. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

 

 

Community pharmacists, Police collaborate on health outreaches
Health

Community pharmacists, Police collaborate on health outreaches

By Kemi Akintokun

Community pharmacists in Lagos State, under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), have partnered with the Nigerian Police Force to enhance public health and safety.

In a statement signed by Mr Tolu Ajayi, ACPN Lagos Chairman, the collaboration highlighted pharmacists’ dual role as healthcare providers and public safety allies.

As part of the 2025 Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Lagos Scientific Week, the ACPN paid advocacy visits to the Assistant Inspector General at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and the Lagos State Police Command.

The health outreaches themed “Partnership with the Nigeria Police Force for Equitable Access to Healthcare Towards Universal Health Coverage” were simultaneously held across 30 police formations in the state.

The activities included health education, free medical screening for officers, distribution of essential medicines, product samples, and first aid supplies.

“Together, community pharmacists and the police can create a frontline that fights illegalities, builds trust, and promotes public health and safety,” Ajayi stated.

He emphasised that community pharmacists were not only committed to rational medication use but were also well-positioned to support crime prevention through intelligence on drug abuse and trafficking.

“Beyond dispensing medicines, we provide counselling, monitor treatment outcomes, support adherence, and make timely referrals.

“We also play a vital role in rehabilitating individuals battling drug addiction and promoting disease prevention and wellness,” Ajayi added.(NAN)(nannews,ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

FEATURE: Why media must speak up against financial crimes
Features

FEATURE: Why media must speak up against financial crimes

 

 

 

By Busayo Onijala, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

 

Financial crimes, including money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing, have continued to fuel conflict, economic inequality and corruption across West Africa.

 

In the fight against this, the media often remains underutilised, underresourced and, sometimes, under threat.

 

The role of the media in the fight against illicit financial flows is more critical now, as investigations on the menace can expose financial networks and inform the public of how unclean money shapes some lives.

 

Analysts believe that when journalists are silenced by fear, censorship or lack of support, the perpetrators of these crimes win.

 

They argue that in some cases, some political and business figures implicated in money laundering wield influence over media houses and stifle critical coverage, while in other instances, journalists simply lack the training or resources to pursue complex financial investigations that require deep understanding of legal, economic and international frameworks.

 

Media houses have a moral, civic and strategic duty to shine light on financial crimes and are positioned to educate citizens on the signs and dangers of money laundering and terror financing.

 

They are also positioned to hold financial institutions and public officials accountable, as inaction weakens accountability, allowing perpetrators escape justice.

 

It is noteworthy that countries struggling with weak anti-money laundering enforcement risk international sanctions, which can further isolate economies and damage development.

 

As part of its continued effort to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing in West Africa, the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering (GIABA) few days ago held its annual briefing session for ECOWAS ambassadors and development partners.

 

GIABA presented its 2024 Annual Report at the occasion.

 

It also held a sensitisation programme for some ECOWAS journalists on the sidelines of the presentation of its 2024 Annual Report

 

The report outlines GIABA’s key achievements during 2024, while urging ECOWAS states to intensify implementation of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT) measures.

 

GIABA, established in 2000 by ECOWAS, is a specialised institution mandated to coordinate regional responses to economic and financial crimes.

 

It was created as a demonstration of political will to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, while aligning West Africa with global AML standards.

 

According to GIABA, the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing is a global programme with diverse stakeholders at both the national, regional and international levels.

 

Mr Cheikh Bamba, Director, Financial Intelligence Unit and GIABA National Correspondent for Senegal, emphasised the need for more collaboration and investment in journalists in the fight against financial crimes.

 

According to him, communication and advocacy are very important in tackling the crimes as they improve understanding of the situation and push for interventions.

 

“It is through constant dialogues and training of the media that we will be able to put together concrete actions to fight financial crimes,” he said.

 

On the role of the media in fighting financial crimes, Mr Timothy Melaye, Principal Officer for Communication and Advocacy at GIABA, said that media professionals must act as moral compasses for society.

 

Melaye said that the media must also improve its literacy on AML/CFT frameworks to facilitate effective reporting.

 

“Use your reports to advocate national re-orientation of youths to change their perception about governance, disabuse their minds on the legality of corruption, and increase their participation in governance.

 

“Continue to investigate and report all predicate offences, especially corruption in high places. By so doing, you are setting national agenda and discourse,” Melaye urged the media.

 

He added that commitment of all stakeholders would be required to ensure that ECOWAS member-states would be rid of criminality while effective implementation of a robust AML/CFT regime would be achieved.

 

Mr Muazu Umaru, Policy and Research Director at GIABA, highlighted the drivers of financial crimes, describing risks posed by them as significant and interconnected with security and political instability.

 

According to him, high rates of poverty, unemployment and other deep-seated socio-economic grievances create vulnerabilities and motivation for individuals to engage in crimes.

 

“Illicit economy can appear as the only viable pathway out of poverty in marginalised areas, and widespread socio-economic frustration fuels grievances against the state.”

 

Anderson Akue Tounou, a Togolese Journalist with Ecovisionafrik, expressed the hope that through his work, he would contribute to collective awareness on financial crimes and bring about major changes within his community.

 

He called on other journalists and media actors to cultivate integrity on their jobs and give hope to populations who deserved access to better life conditions.

 

“The session made me realise the essential role I must play in the fight against money laundering.

 

“GIABA is doing a tremendous job in raising awareness in the fight against financial crimes, and I think it is time for heads of state and government to expand GIABA’s powers and scope of action.

 

“By this, I mean that GIABA must be allowed to pursue criminals and try them if possible,” he said.

 

Earlier, Hermínio Moniz, Ambassador of Cabo Verde to Senegal noted the essential role of the media in raising awareness and advancing the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.

 

According to him, sustainable economic development cannot be achieved without effectively addressing financial crimes.

 

Analysts believe that empowering the media in this fight involves doing more to support journalism through training, funding, and legal protection.

 

They urge urgent inclusion of journalists in national and regional conversations on AML/CFT frameworks, arguing that such discussions are often limited to financial regulators, law enforcers and policymakers, leaving out the storytellers who can turn complex financial data into accessible narratives that drive public engagements. (NANFeatures)

China commemorates World War II victory with documentaries, parade
General News

China commemorates World War II victory with documentaries, parade

 

By Busayo Onijala

 

China has unveiled documentaries and events to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

 

Some of the documentaries include The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru and World War II: Remembered, Reimagined, Retold; The Canvas that Speaks, and The Compass of History.

 

China Global Television Network host, Huang Jiyuan, said: “History is not a cold list of the past, but behind those events lie the lives and blood of people who lived in that time.”

 

According to him, within every story lies the struggle of the people, the legacy they have left behind and the lessons that are to be learnt by generations.

 

“The Canvas that Speaks highlights how Marina Nechaeva, a Russian concept artist, preaches world-building through her work inspired by the experience of her family during the wars,” the host said.

 

Also, China will hold a military parade on Sept. 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression.

 

At a news conference on Friday in Beijing, Vice Foreign Minister, Ma Zhaoxu, said the victory was a historic turning point where the Chinese nation emerged from profound crisis and achieved national rejuvenation.

 

He said it had much impact on the great cause of people around the world to defeat fascism and pursue peace.

 

“Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, China has adhered to an independent foreign policy of peace, proposed the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, and advocated promotion of world multipolarisation and democracy in international relations.

 

“China continues to make important contributions to the cause of world peace and development, and remains committed to working with countries around the world to build a community with a shared future for humanity,” Ma said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chinese Consulate in Lagos had held a forum, in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, as part of the commemorative events.

 

At the forum, Ms Yan Yuqing, Consul-General of China in Lagos, said that history must be honoured, heroes remembered and peace cherished.

 

According to her, peace is never granted but earned through sacrifices of countless lives.

 

“Any attempt to deny historical aggression, whitewash war crimes, or glorify militarism should be firmly opposed and condemned by the international community.

 

“Through immense national sacrifice, China upheld the Eastern front of the World Anti-Fascist War and made a decisive contribution to its victory.

 

“The Chinese people will not forget that our struggle received valuable support from peace-loving and justice-upholding nations and peoples around the world, including those of Africa,” she said.

 

According to the envoy, war is a mirror that reminds the world of the preciousness of peace.

 

The consul-general added that mutual respect, equality, peaceful development and common prosperity were the right paths for humanity. (NAN)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Tinubu’s foreign trips to drive much-needed cushion — Support group
General News

Tinubu’s foreign trips to drive much-needed cushion — Support group

By Adeyemi Adeleye

The Tinubu Media Force (TMF), a support group for President Bola Tinubu, says the president’s official foreign trips are designed to cushion economic hardship and yield benefits for Nigerians.

TMF National Coordinator, Mr Oluwagbenga Abiola, stated this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, while reacting to criticisms trailing the President’s latest trip to Japan and Brazil, with a brief stopover in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

He recalled that the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and others had criticised the frequency of Tinubu’s foreign trips amid the country’s current challenges.

Abiola, however, maintained that the President’s roadmap for Nigeria’s growth had proven to be “truly phenomenal,” with every official engagement abroad yielding tangible benefits.

According to him, in line with the All Progressives Congress (APC) manifesto and campaign promises made during the 2023 elections, Tinubu has pursued a bold strategy of economic diplomacy.

He added that the Nigerian leader was using each international engagement to attract investment, strengthen trade partnerships, and open new opportunities for citizens.

“His approach has been focused on easing the economic burden on households, addressing the challenges of food security, job creation, and infrastructure, while positioning Nigeria as a credible global player and the economic powerhouse of Africa.

“President Tinubu’s international engagements are delivering visible dividends for Nigerians, with every visit abroad translating into fresh economic opportunities.

“From agriculture in Brazil to technology in Japan, and investment pledges from India to aviation breakthroughs in the United Arab Emirates, the president’s strategic diplomacy is easing pressure on the nation’s economy while creating pathways for long-term growth.”

According to him, these visits are not ceremonial but carefully structured to bring immediate and long-lasting relief to Nigerian households.

He said that the Brazil trip had been particularly significant.

Abiola said: “Tinubu successfully revived the $1.1 billion Green Imperative Agreement, unlocking partnerships that will introduce mechanized farming and agro-industrial parks across Nigeria.

“For millions of Nigerians struggling with rising food prices, the impact could be transformative.

“With Brazil’s expertise in large-scale agriculture and livestock management, local production of rice, maize, and other staples is expected to rise, easing dependence on costly imports.

“Analysts project that the scheme could directly create over 100,000 jobs and five million indirect opportunities while helping to bring down the cost of food that has stretched household budgets in recent years.”

According to him, this breakthrough is one of the clearest signs yet that the administration’s foreign policy is directly tackling the cost-of-living crisis.

He said that Tinubu’s diplomatic efforts focus to Asia, where his visit to Japan reinforced Nigeria’s drive towards industrial growth and technology transfer.

“Japan pledged support in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and automobile assembly.

“For Nigerians, this could mean more stable electricity in the future, the growth of smart cities, and affordable locally assembled cars.

“Vocational training agreements reached in Tokyo are also aimed at equipping Nigeria’s youth, who make up more than 60 per cent of the population, with skills in engineering and advanced manufacturing,” he said.

Abiola said that the youth-focused agreements were vital to creating a generation of globally competitive Nigerian professionals.

According to him, at the G20 Summit in India, Tinubu secured billions of dollars in infrastructure and energy pledges.

He added that in the United Arab Emirates, strategic negotiations reopened aviation corridors and deepened cooperation in oil and gas.

“Together, these efforts have helped attract over $5 billion in foreign direct investment within two years, restoring investor confidence and strengthening Nigeria’s economic outlook.

“These achievements show the world’s renewed confidence in Nigeria under Tinubu’s leadership, a confidence that is steadily translating into tangible economic benefits for ordinary citizens,” Abiola said.

According to him, the effects on ordinary Nigerians are clear, saying agro-industrial development from Brazil will help curb food inflation.

“Japanese investments will create skilled jobs and reduce import bills on vehicles. Aviation deals with Brazil and the United Arab Emirates promise to ease travel costs for businesspeople and traders.

“Each initiative contributes to reducing household expenses, boosting incomes, and expanding opportunities for young people,” he said.

According to him, as Nigeria continues to navigate tough domestic reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, the president’s international drive offers a much-needed cushion.

“By securing partnerships that promise cheaper food, better jobs, improved power supply, and stronger industries, Tinubu is laying the foundation for the kind of inclusive prosperity that will make present sacrifices worthwhile.

“For millions of families facing economic pressure, these gains provide renewed hope that Nigeria’s future is firmly tied to progress and opportunity,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Agro-diagnostic coy advocates adoption of data-driven, science-based agriculture practices
Agriculture

Agro-diagnostic coy advocates adoption of data-driven, science-based agriculture practices

By Mercy Omoike

RID LAB, an agro-diagnostic company, has called for the adoption of data-driven, science-based agriculture practices in the country, saying it will reduce losses in the sector.

Mr Femi Dairo, the Chief Executive Officer and Business Head at RID LAB, made this call at the second edition of its All Farmers Business Meeting 2.0 (AFBM) on Wednesday at Ikorodu, Lagos.

Dairo said it had become necessary for the government to create enabling policies for science-based agriculture practices to thrive in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that RID LABS is an Animal Diagnostic Centre and veterinary facility dedicated to the well-being of animals, providing comprehensive diagnostic services to improve animal health and welfare.

It specialises in accurate and timely diagnostics for all species, from pets to livestock.

Dairo said that one of the enabling policies government should create was making diagnosis first before treatment a rule and not an exception.

He stressed the importance of diagnosis before treatment in animal farming, saying it prevented constant losses in the sector.

“We understand that a system of diagnosis before treatment may sometimes feel like the hours are unending. Farmers usually ask why they need to wait for hours rather than just administering drugs to the livestock.

“Without diagnosis we cannot promote the sustainability we desire and we cannot hold up public health.

“We have seen how difficult it is when we query farmers for information, sometimes they resist, but we can show how farms that trusted diagnosis first, reduced losses.

“And this diagnosis has helped us solve animal health problems sustainably.

“We will show you how together we are protecting our food systems, safeguarding public health and shaping a profitable future.

“However, this vision is not for us to carry alone, we all have a role to play,” Dairo said.

The chief executive expressed the hope that governments would perform their duties towards public health.

He added that regulators like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) should guard the standards and stop misuse of antibiotics, and ensure that laboratories remain globally compliant.

“We hope the media becomes the voice of truth, carrying the message to masses that science-driven farming is not a burden, but a lifeline.

“We want farmers to not only receive products, but also the knowledge and diagnosis to use them appropriately.

“Farmers are at the heart of the system, your animals, your decisions and discipline shape the nation’s food systems.

“Diagnosis is not an afterthought but the backbone of modern agriculture,” he said.

In her keynote address, the Lagos State Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, restated the government’s commitment to promoting data-driven agriculture practices not just for the farmers’ profits but for public health.

Olusanya, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Fisheries, Mr Olorunfemi Oniyide, congratulated and commended the organisers of AFBM 2.0.

She said: “We believe that for the farmers, what we are about to discuss today will move the sector forward.

“Operating this law driven platform where farmers, agriculture scientists, regulators and investors can converge to exchange ideas and chart new pathways for a stronger, more profitable and more sustainable food systems is laudable.

“This year’s theme: “Numbers Don’t Lie: Turning Farm Data to Profits”, is very timely. Successful farming decisions must be driven by facts and figures, not guess work.

“By leveraging data, we can reduce losses, improve productivity, strengthen agribusinesses and secure greater profitability for us,” Olusanya said

She said further: “I am also particularly pleased that this edition of the meeting addresses the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance in agriculture.

“The silent yet devastating effect of antibiotic misuse ranging from high mortality in poultry and agriculture, treatments and rising production costs cannot be overlooked.

“The Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems recognises the urgent need to address this challenge.

“We are committed to promoting proper diagnosis, responsible use of veterinary medicines, continuous capacity building and the development of some policy frameworks.

“By working together, we can promote farm profitability while also protecting public health,” the commissioner said.

On her part, Mrs Adewunmi Dairo, Managing Director of Rid-Agric. Ltd., an affiliate of RID LAB, restated the importance of data to growth in the agriculture sector.

“Turning data into profit captures the very heart of why we are gathered here today. For too long, farming has been driven by assumptions and guesswork.

“However in today’s world, we declare that the future of agriculture must be built on facts, on data and on truth.

“Because when numbers speak, they don’t just tell the story, they show us the path to profit, sustainability and growth.

“So to our government representatives and regulators, we thank you for your commitment to policies that protect farmers, consumers and public health.

“To our partners, pharmaceutical companies and sponsors, your innovation and investment are critical to moving agriculture forward.

“To our industry associates, you give farmers a united voice and strengthen our collective progress. And to our farmers, the heartbeat of this meeting, you rise every day to feed this nation.

“Your resilience inspires us, and today, we have gathered to honour and equip you. We gather to track a new path together,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

AFRIMA 2025: Burna Boy, Davido, Rema make nominees list
Entertainment

AFRIMA 2025: Burna Boy, Davido, Rema make nominees list

 

By Dele Eniola

 

The Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) on Wednesday unveiled its 2025 nominees featuring Davido, Burna Boy, El Grande Toto, Rema, Fally Ipupa, Shallipopi, Himra, Moliy, Ayra Starr, Jux, and Mia Guissé.

 

Michael Osunnuyi, the PR and Media Relations Manager for AFRIMA, disclosed this in a statement in Lagos.

 

Osunnuyi said that this year’s edition recorded 10,717 entries, the highest since AFRIMA’s inception 12 years ago.

 

“After a 10-day adjudication process, a 13-member international jury shortlisted 343 nominees across 40 categories, representing Africa’s five regions and the diaspora.”

 

Burna Boy and Davido lead the nominations with five each including ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Song of the Year’, while South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa and Morocco’s El Grande Toto also secured five nominations apiece.

 

Senegal’s Mia Guissé and Ghana’s Moliy also have matched them with five nods each, highlighting the growing influence of female artistes on the continent’s music scene.

 

Shallipopi earned four nominations including ‘Artiste of the Year’, while Egypt’s Amr Diab, Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz, Tyla from South Africa and Eswatini’s Uncle Waffles also bagged four nominations each.

 

Côte d’Ivoire’s Himra, Gabon’s Eboloko, DR Congo’s Fally Ipupa and Rema were among artistes with three nominations.

 

The diaspora category also features strong contenders including DJ Snake, Aya Nakamura, Darkoo, and Deborah Lukalu.

 

Public voting will open globally on Sept. 10, via AFRIMA’s official website and will close on Nov. 30, the eve of the main awards.

 

AFRIMA jury member, Delani Makhalima described the 2025 nominees list as proof of African music’s growing global dominance.

 

“In just 12 years, we’ve gone from being marginalised to becoming a global force. This is AFRIMA, the biggest music entity on the continent,” he said.

 

Organised in partnership with the African Union Commission, the Federal Government, and Lagos State as host city, AFRIMA 2025 will run from Nov. 25 to Nov. 30.

 

The week-long celebration will feature a Welcome Soiree, AFRIMA Music Village, the Africa Music Business Summit, Nominees Party, and culminate in the main awards ceremony on Nov. 30, to be broadcast live across 84 countries. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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