NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Education

Dubai-based firm trains 10,000 African graduates on virtual assistance roles

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By Taiye Olayemi

Doballi, a Dubai-based firm, will train 10,000 graduates across Africa to support global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).

The trainees are expected to be equipped with the knowledge to work with multinational companies while living in their respective countries.

The knowledge will empower them with the skills to serve as virtual assistants for the foreign-based firms, offering them tremendous opportunities to earn foreign currencies.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Doballi, a Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), is partnering with GetBundi Education Technology, a Nigeria-based edtech platform, for the exercise.

“The opportunities in virtual administrative roles are massive and Africa, with a young, dynamic, and well-educated population, if given the right training, will be highly beneficial to the global business community,” a statement by Osita Oparaugo, Founder of Doballi, said in Lagos on Tuesday.

He said that the virtual assistance tasks were hitherto handled chiefly by Indians and some youths in the Philippines.

“We want African youths to explore these opportunities and make a living for themselves,” he said.

According to Oparaugo, the free training is open to all Africans aged 20 to 45.

“Registration closes on March 31, 2025. Prospective candidates must be university graduates, possess a laptop or desktop, and no prior technical skills are necessary to apply

“The comprehensive eight-week training programme will begin on April 11, 2025, and is free for all participants.

“This initiative comes in response to the increasing need for Virtual Assistants (VAs) in today’s business landscape, where efficiency and productivity are paramount.

“This collaboration aims to equip African talents with the necessary skills to excel in this rapidly growing field,” he said.

Virtual assistants are skilled professionals who provide remote support in various fields leveraging technology to deliver efficient and cost-effective solutions.

“They help small business owners, entrepreneurs, or corporate executives to focus on strategic tasks while handling time-consuming activities.

“In today’s business landscape, virtual assistants work across numerous fields, from Customer Service to Social Media Management and Bookkeeping.

“Others handle Project Management, Content Creation, Research, Calendar Management, Administrative Assistance, Social Media Marketing, E-commerce, Event Management, Graphic Design, Data Entry, and many more,” the statement added.

“The training partnership is in line with Doballi’s core objective of collaborating with organisations, educational institutions, and governments to support African talent development and align skills with market demands.

“It will see Doballi and GetBundi equip these 10,000 trainees with the right skills to function effectively as virtual assistants, helping businesses focus on growth,” the statement said

It quoted Ms Maxine Gordon, Director of International Partnerships at Doballi, as highlighting the vast potential of virtual assistants in today’s landscape.

“Key elements like convenience, accessibility, integration with IoT, and personalisation fuel the rise of virtual assistants.

“In a shifting global economy, Africa’s youthful demography is a promising frontier.

“Leveraging this abundant human capital has the power to revolutionise Africa and yield significant advantages for the world economy.

“Doballi remains dedicated to empowering African youth through upskilling initiatives, paving the way for their integration into the global workforce.

“Doballi’s commitment shines through in the mission to bridge African talent with international opportunities,” Gordon further said.

Speaking on behalf of GetBundi Education Technology, Mrs Juliet Ijei, the Course Coordinator, expressed gratitude to Doballi for the dedication to partnering with Africa to enhance. (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

General News

WED: NSE tasks engineers on excellence, innovation

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By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on engineers to remain committed to excellence and innovation to drive economic and social development.

The President of NSE, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, said this in a statement on Monday, to commomorate the 2025 World Engineering Day (WED) for Sustainable Development celebrated annually on March 4.

The day is recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, to recognise engineers and engineering as essential pillars of sustainable development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this year’s global theme by the World Federation of Engineering Organisations is: “Shaping Our Sustainable Future Through Engineering”.

Oguntala said: “The world is looking to us for innovative solutions and we must continue to rise to the occasion with resilience, ingenuity and the spirit of excellence.

“As we celebrate this year’s World Engineering Day, let us reaffirm our resolve to harness the power of engineering to drive sustainable development and improve the lives of our people.”

Oguntala commended Nigerian engineers, both at home and in the Diaspora, for their firm dedication and contributions to national and global development.

She noted that engineers were at the heart of sustainable solutions, from climate change mitigation and clean energy development to water management, infrastructure resilience, and digital transformation.

She acknowledged the collaboration between engineers, policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders.

She stressed the importance of continued cooperation to drive progress and economic development.

“I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate our policymakers, leading scientists, captains of industry and all stakeholders for working together with Nigerian Engineers over the years.

“Your collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring that engineering continues to be a driving force for progress and development.

“I remain optimistic that our joint efforts will bring about the much needed transformation in advancing our economy and shaping a sustainable future for our country through engineering.

“The continued cooperation and support of all stakeholders with the Nigerian Engineers are essential to effectively tackle the enormous task of infrastructure development and maintenance across the country,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

General News

FG approves N2.5bn satellite gadget to combat illegal mining

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By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Executive Council (FEC), at its third meeting of the year on Monday, approved the procurement of a N2.5 billion satellite gadget to combat illegal mining in the country.

Mr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, said this while briefing State House Correspondents, after the FEC meeting.

He said the technology was an integrated solution framework to combat unlicensed, unregulated, underreported mining activities.

The Minister said the deployment of the technology would curb activities that had led to revenue leakages, illegal operations and illegal extraction and exploitation of the country’s minerals.

“We are procuring satellite equipment, satellite gadgets that will be installed in strategic places all over the country that would enable us to have visual effect, real time of the operations that are ongoing in sites all over the country.

“There will be a centre like a screen in the operation centre, the mines martial centre, and in my office as well.

“At a glance, at the click of a button, you can surf any mine site and see the operations there; the volume of the mineral extracted, the number of trucks going out, and, of course, the security situation in the environment,” said the Minister.

Alake said his ministry introduced the technology in addition to a two-prong strategy to combat illegal mining.

He said on assumption of duty, the ministry adopted a two-prong approach: persuasive and coercive strategies.

He said the persuasive strategy entailed appealing to the sense of responsibility of artisanal miners to form cooperatives.

“When they form cooperatives, they become structured, formalised and legalised, and their operation can now add some value to the nation.

“When they form cooperatives they become bankable. They can even have access to financial institutions to procure loans to expand their businesses.

“And of course, it means they have to pay their obligations to the Nigerian state,” he said.

He said the ministry had been able to persuade the illegal and artisanal miners to form over 300 cooperative societies.

Alake said the second approach, the coercive strategy was for those who were recalcitrant, who failed to yield to the persuasive method.

“We used the coercive measure, and that is epitomised by the Mining Marshalls that we established. To date, we have arrested apprehended, prosecuted and convicted illegal operators, including foreigners,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

General News

FEC approves contracts for completion of 4 inherited road projects

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By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Executive Council (FEC), at its third meeting of the year on Monday, approved the completion of four road projects inherited from the previous administration, after a rigorous review.

Chief David Umahi, Minister of Works, said this while addressing State House Correspondents after the FEC meeting.

He said the first approval by FEC was the award of contract for the dualisation of Odupani-Itu-Idedem Item in Ikot Ekpene Road in Cross River and Akwa Ibom at a total cost of N55 billion in favour of Decon Construction Nigeria Ltd.

“The next one is the approval for the award of contract for the dualisation of Ibadan-Ilorin road section two, which is in Ogbomosho in Oyo State.

“It’s N147 billion in favour of GRVe to be constructed on re-enforced concrete pavement.

“We also have another one approval for the completion of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano roads, this time is section two, that’s 82 kilometers by two, that is 164 kilometers, awarded for N507 billion.

“The last one is the construction of a flyover at Abakpa bordering 82 Division Enugu. A flyover is to be constructed to relief traffic jam there.

“The contractor is CCECC and the amount is N24 billion,” said the Minister.

The Minister added that infoWest Nigeria Ltd., the contractor handling section one and three of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano section, competitively won the session two. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

General News

FEC approves provisional licenses for 11 private varsities

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By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Executive Council (FEC), at its third meeting of the year on Monday, approved provisional licenses for 11 private universities in the country.

Dr Morufu Alausa, the Minister of Education, said this while briefing State House Correspondents after the FEC meeting.

He said the universities approved were: New City University, Ayetoro Ogun; University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State; Eranova University, Mabushi; Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun Annex and Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Agba, Kwara.

Others are: Southern Atlantic University Uyo, Akwa Ibom; Lens University, ilemona, Kwara; Monarch University, Iyesi-Ota, Ogun; Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin City; Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos and Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State.

Alausa said the administration of President Bola Tinubu was Committed to expanding the frontiers of educational opportunities and infrastructure, hence the approval of the new universities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

General News

Creative sector has potential to boost investment in Nigeria – Expert

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By Grace Alegba

Ms Ogufere, Founder, Design Week Lagos exhibition, says Nigeria’s creative and manufacturing industries are poised to drive investment and transform the nation’s economic landscape.

She said this at the Design Week Lagos Exhibition, with the theme, “Building a Made in Nigeria Brand”, in Lagos.

The event showcases the extensive talent pool in furniture design, product design, toy design, and doll-making, illustrating the untapped potential of local creative expertise.

She said, “We are here to show the possibilities in the Nigerian industry, especially in manufacturing and the creative sector.

“Our country is brimming with creative talents, and through this exhibition, we aim to reveal the innovative work that has been happening behind the scenes, work that often goes unnoticed.”

Drawing parallels with renowned Italian brands built on local ingenuity, Ogufere stressed the importance of designing and manufacturing for the local market.

“We have been overly reliant on imports, often bringing in products that don’t meet our market needs. It’s time for us to support local creativity and innovation,” Ogufere noted.

She urged both government and financial institutions to invest in and nurture this thriving sector.

The exhibition features 58 designers, as well as 25 manufacturer-designer collaborations that demonstrate how local partnerships can lead to breakthrough products.

“These collaborations not only highlighted unique designs but also underscored the economic potential of a robust creative ecosystem.

“The global furniture industry alone is worth over 700 billion dollars Imagine what local manufacturing and design can achieve for Nigeria,” Ogufere added.

“Beyond showcasing finished products, the event also emphasises the importance of using locally sourced materials and reducing the reliance on imported components.”

This approach, Ogufere explained, not only enhances product quality but also boosts the nation’s export potential by meeting international standards.

“The exhibition serves as a call to action for stakeholders to support local content.

“Design is what builds economies. We’re inviting government agencies and financial institutions to recognise the gap and invest in this vibrant sector.

“When we support local manufacturers and designers, we are laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and job creation,” she said.

Also, Mr Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director / Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, emphasised that partnering the exhibition was yet another demonstration of the bank’s commitment to driving innovation, collaboration, and capacity building, which is the backbone of the nation’s economy.

“Ecobank is the solution for African banking, and we are committed to giving our customers the platform to network, collaborate and partner to promote innovation and creativity.

“We are proud to be part of the process to spotlight homegrown innovations and sustainable practices across various sectors,” he said. (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

General News

Elegushi Foundation donates N200m to Eti-Osa students, SMEs

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By Joan Odafe

The Oba Saheed Elegushi Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), says it is giving N200 million to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and students in Eti-Osa area of  Lagos State.

The NGO said this in a statement signed by Temitope Oyefeso, Special Assistant on Public Affairs to the ttaditional ruler of Ikateland, Oba Saheed Elegushi.

According to Oyefeso, the initiative coincides with the 15th Anniversary of the traditional ruler, whose reign has fostered growth and prosperity within the community.

He said the traditional ruler had pledged his commitment to sustainable development and  upliftment of the community.

Elegushi was quoted to have said: “As I celebrate 15 years on the throne, I am continuing in the tradition of giving back to the society that has supported me.

“This initiative is a testament to my belief in the potential of our youths and entrepreneurs.

“Together, we can build a brighter future for our communities.”

Oyefeso said the initiative aimed at providing financial assistance and resources to local entrepreneurs and students to help stimulate economic growth and enhance educational opportunities.

“This initiative not only marks a significant milestone in the traditional ruler’s reign but also reinforces the foundation’s commitment to driving positive change within its area of focus,” he said.

He noted that the funds would be distributed through various programmes designed to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence.

Oyefeso further said other activities planned to celebrate the anniversary, which will hold from April 18 to April 27, includes a public presentation of a book on the history of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom.

Others are the conferment titles on eminent Nigerians, as well as a cultural festival and an anniversary banquet.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the traditional ruler was installed as the 21st Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom on April 27, 2010. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Lagos Govt., Design Week to boost industrialisation through PPP

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By Taiye Olayemi

The Lagos State Government and the Design Week have called for increased collaboration between the different levels of government and the private sector to expedite the nation’s industrialisation process.

They made the call at the ongoing Design and Innovation Exhibition, organised by the Design Week in Lagos.

The exihibition is organised in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria and the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy.

Titi Ogufere, founder of Design Week emphasised the urgent need for a united effort from government officials, policymakers, and financial institutions to invest in the next phase of Nigeria’s industrialisation.

Ogufere said this would be primarily driven by design, manufacturing, and innovation.

She highlighted how nations that had led the world, particularly through technological revolutions or manufacturing excellence, were built on design.

Ogufere noted that the theme of the year’s event, “The Road to Industrialisation”, aimed to explore how to bridge the gap between designers and manufacturers to ensure that ideas evolve from concepts into tangible products.

She said, “History has shown us that design and industrialisation go hand in hand. True economic progress is driven by design, manufacturing, and innovation.

“The nations that have led the world, whether through technological revolutions or manufacturing excellence have been built by design.

“We are a nation rich in talent, resources, and ideas, as seen in this exhibition, but potential alone is not enough.

“To move from vision to reality, we must create the right policies, infrastructure, and business environments that empower designers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs to produce at scale, not just for local markets, but for export.”

Ogufere noted that to achieve rapid industrialisation, it was vital to bridge the gap between designers and manufacturers, ensuring that ideas do not remain concepts but become tangible products.

She also called for government policies that encourage industrial growth, making Nigeria an attractive destination for both local and foreign investors.

She emphasised the importance of prioritising skills development to equip the workforce with advanced manufacturing expertise.

Also, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, described Lagos as the hub for industrialisation and innovation.

She said that industrialisation was a collective responsibility for both the government and the private sector.

Ambrose-Medebem revealed that, as part of efforts to transform the Lekki Economic Zone (LEZ) into Africa’s leading destination for manufacturing, trade, and investment, the Lagos State Government had introduced Operation Quadrant Ignite (OQI) to strengthen the region’s infrastructure.

She said, “The Lagos State Industrial Policy (LSIP) 2025–2030” is not just a vision but a structured roadmap designed to elevate Lagos into a globally competitive industrial hub.

“The policy aims to enhance infrastructure development by expanding industrial zones, improving transportation networks, and ensuring a stable power supply to meet the state’s growing demand.

“It will also foster a more efficient business environment by simplifying regulatory processes, eliminating bureaucratic obstacles, and fast-tracking approvals for industrial projects to attract both local and international investors.”

The event also marked the launch of Operation Quadrant Ignite (OQI) by the Lagos State Government and featured the unveiling of “In Her Hands: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing in Africa”, a book by Demi Samande, Founder of Majeurs Holdings and SUSU Studios. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

General News

Firm seeks training to bridge skills gap in furniture manufacturing

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By Oluwafunke Ishola

LThe Founder of Majeurs Academy, Demi Samande, has called for increased training of young artisans to bridge the skill gap and sustainability of the Nigerian manufacturing industry.

Samande made the call on Saturday at the graduation of the academy’s maiden cohort of artisans held at the Trinity House Centre, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 15 young professionals who completed intensive training in furniture design, carpentry, and upholstery graduated from Majeurs Academy- a Pan-African furniture manufacturing training institute.

Samande noted that the human capital deficit was a major challenge in Nigeria’s furniture manufacturing industry.

“The average artisan in a manufacturing firm is 42 years old. That tells us we are not training nearly enough young people, nor are we investing in their futures.

“With a 48 per cent youth unemployment rate, this is not just an economic issue; it’s a national crisis.

“When I look at the global manufacturing landscape, I see longevity—companies that have stood the test of time due to the quality of their work.

“That is what we must aspire to in Nigeria,” she said.

She emphasised that Majeurs Academy was born out of a vision to change the narrative by providing world-class training that equips young artisans with the technical and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in the sector.

Samande disclosed that the graduates had secured paid internships upon completion of their training, proving that their skills are in demand.

“Our goal is to expand this initiative across Africa, creating a new generation of master artisans who will not only sustain but revolutionise the industry,” she said.

She called on stakeholders, corporate organisations, and the government to support initiatives like Majeurs Academy.

“We cannot do this alone. The future of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector depends on partnerships.

“We need organisations that believe in local talent and are willing to invest in skill acquisition and industrial development,” she said.

Samande restated the firm’s commitment to skill development, youth empowerment, and industrial growth of Nigeria’s furniture manufacturing industry.

Similarly, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Senior Pastor of Trinity House, lauded the academy’s efforts while urging the government to create an enabling environment for young artisans to thrive.

“Our young people are strong, eager, and innovative. They need a conducive Nigeria with great policies and security to thrive.

“If we have many more Majeurs Academies, unemployment will be a thing of the past,” he said.

The valedictorian and best-graduating student, Toroobong Emmanuel, said that as a female, many doubted her ability to excel in furniture manufacturing.

She thanked the academy for providing her the needed training and confidence to succeed.

Another graduate, Abdulrahman Adegorite, who received a special prize for excellence, said the academy has changed his life in a positive way. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Judiciary

FIDA harps on workable laws to end gender-based violence

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By Adenike Ayodele

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has emphasised the need for effective and workable laws to tackle gender-based violence in Nigeria.

The call was made during a two-day annual multi-stakeholders dialogue on “Implementation Status on Gender-Sensitive Legislations/ Framework Preventing Violence Against Women And Child”.

The event, supported by the Ford Foundation, held in Lagos.

In her remarks, the Vice National President of FIDA, Mrs Eliana Martins, said that in spite of existing laws, the implementation remained a significant challenge.

Mathis noted that gender-based violence remained a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with far-reaching consequences for women and girls.

According to her, The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that one in three women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence, mostly by an intimate partner.

Martins said: “In Nigeria, the statistics are equally alarming, with the National Demographic and Health Survey revealing that 28 per cent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence.

“While laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, 2015, and the Child Rights Act, 2003, exist, their implementation is often hindered by social norms, cultural practices and religious beliefs.

“There is a need for laws that are not only enacted but also effectively implemented to protect women and girls,” she said.

Martins said that the dialogue brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organisations, and community leaders, to discuss the status of gender-sensitive legislations and identify gaps in implementation.

She added that the dialogue was aimed at developing actionable strategies for improvement and promoting accountability among stakeholders.

The vice president also identifies one of the key challenges in addressing gender-based violence as the lack of awareness and understanding of the issue.

According to her, many women and girls are unaware of their rights and the resources available to them.

“There is a need for increased awareness and education to combat this challenge.

“Men have a critical role to play in preventing violence and promoting gender equality.

“There is a need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of violence and provides support to survivors,” Martins said.

Also, the Project Manager of FIDA, Mr Fikih Obaro, said there was a significant gap between the provisions of laws that prevent gender-based violence and effective enforcement.

Obaro said that Nigeria has a plethora of laws against gender-based violence, but that its implementation and enforcement are lacking.

According to him, because of lack of enforcement and implementation, gender-based violence is on the rise.

He disclosed that FIDA intended to use the opportunity of the dialogue to understand why the laws were not working and ways forward to ensure that the legislation worked.

Obaro said: “This dialogue looks more on preventions, trying to use legal frameworks, consultation to see how to end gender-based violence by prevention.

“We look at social norms and indices that promote this violence and see how to address them.

“Within state institutions, we need those that are empowered to implement these laws.

“The traditional rulers and religious leaders who are in the communities where these offences are perpetrated will be able to have a synchronised pattern through consultation that all stakeholders have the same objective toward ending gender-based violence.”

The Chairperson of FIDA Ikeja Branch, Mrs Veronica Eze, said that the dialogue was about assessing how far the gender laws have been implemented.

Eze noted that with the increase in gender-based violence across the country, it seemed that the laws were not working.

She said that some of the socio-cultural beliefs and traditional norms which promoted gender violence should be checked.

One of the participants at the event, Mr Taofeek Adejare, the Secretary of Jama’at Islamia Division One, Lagos, said that religious leaders have roles to play in the prevention of gender violence.

Adejare said that some issues concerning women’s inheritance were being misconstrued.

He called on religious leaders to imbibe teachings that upheld the rights of women and prevent gender violence. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Yakubu Uba

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