News Agency of Nigeria
2027 elections will reshape Nigeria’s political landscape — Youths
General News

2027 elections will reshape Nigeria’s political landscape — Youths

 

By Diana Omueza

The Inspire Youth Development Foundation (IYDF), a youth-focused non-governmental organisation, says Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will usher in a new political landscape driven by youth participation and accountable leadership.

Mr Rabiu Lawal, the Convener of the group, made this known on Wednesday in Abuja at a roundtable tagged “The Youth Mandates 2027”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event centered on Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) registration and collection, as well as youth engagement and participation.

Lawal said that Nigeria is a country, where the youth carried the numbers but not the influence, a situation which he described as worrisome.

He, however, said that the next general elections would defy traditional norms of political stakeholders and politicians with effective youth engagement and participation.

“The elections will not be business as usual for politicians, as growing political awareness among young Nigerians and renewed calls for inclusiveness are expected to redefine voter behavior and the overall electoral process.

“The IYDF is set to build a 100,000-strong organised youth base before the 2027 election cycle to shape elections, policies and the destiny of this nation.

“The upcoming elections are not an option. They are a duty, we must register, we must vote and some of us must even contest,” he said.

Lawal added that the time of shouting from the sidelines was over, so the youth must step onto the field and “face the challenge face to face.”

He urged the youths to brace-up for positive change in 2027 by registering and collecting their PVCs and joining political parties to vote and be voted for.

These, he said, were the first crucial steps to changing the nation’s political landscape and the beginning of transformation.

Lawal said that in the 2023 elections, over 70 per cent of registered voters were youths, yet the impact of youths in power remained unnoticed.

He urged the youth who are currently in political positions to deliver their mandates and not dwindle in purpose.

“To be honest, only few of them are leading by example, and we must call them to accountability.

“Representation is not about enjoying the seat, it is about delivering for the people who voted for you,” he said.

Lawal urged the youth to engage in legitimate businesses that would strengthen and empower them economically.

According to him, leadership is not only in government but also in business, technology, and indeed, every sector.

“A young person who creates jobs is as important as a senator or as a minister, so if we combine political strength with economic strength, we will be unstoppable ” he said.

Mr Muslim Yuguda, an entrepreneur and young politician, urged young Nigerians to aspire to make impact in whatever sphere they found themselves.

“The youth are over 60 per cent of the nation’s population and everyone has their role to play.

“We constitute the largest voting bloc and our collective voice will play a decisive role in shaping leadership at all levels of government,” he said.

Other attendees at the meeting urged the Nigerian youth to break religious, cultural, ethnic and social stereotypes to achieve the desired change come 2027. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

 

Gender violence: Olowu, others underscore men’s role in safeguarding women, girls
General News

Gender violence: Olowu, others underscore men’s role in safeguarding women, girls

By Abiodun Lawal

The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, has emphasised the role of men in ensuring protection of women and girls in the family and the society at large.

Matemilola spoke at the fourth “Men-Only” town hall meeting organised by Women FM radio in collaboration with the Owu Palace on Wednesday in Abeokuta.

The traditional ruler stated that as fathers, brothers, husbands, and community members, men have a crucial role in fostering environments where women and girls can thrive and be protected.

He stressed that men play a crucial role in maintaining harmony at home, adding that the man, as head of the family, ultimately determines a home’s success.

“Also, a man should be blamed for a home that is full of atrocities and destructive character.

“There should be family bond, it helps to rebuild the society through rebuilding the families individually.

“Government have responsibility to ensure and enforce the law on those who violate women or rough handle them. Also, those who perpetrate physical assault, sexual assault and all of that,” he said.

Matemilola urged the people to speak out against any infringement on the rights of women and girls.

Keynote speaker, Tony Ojeshina, Asiwaju of Owu Kingdom, noted that urbanisation and modern pressures have eroded family bonds.

Ojeshina said that it was important to restore the spirit of communal living in a modern world.

“To strengthen family and community bonds, our children need more than financial support; they need time, guidance, and presence.

“The values we live at home as men are the values our children carry into society. If we want an honest and disciplined society, it begins with how we treat our spouses and respect elders,” he said.

According to Ojeshina, the strength of a nation is not only measured in its economy or its politics, but in the health of its families and the unity of its communities.

Others who spoke including DCP Gbenga Adeoye, Dr Idris Oni of Crescent University and Olumide Omosebi, a lawyer, concluded that men should protect women and girls.

They concurred that men must uphold the law by ensuring that perpetrators of sexual abuse and violence are brought to justice and that women and girls’ rights to economic and property ownership are respected. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

Church constitutes investigation panel into financial impropriety allegations against bishop
General News

Church constitutes investigation panel into financial impropriety allegations against bishop

By Angela Atabo

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) says it has constituted an independent investigation panel to examine the financial impropriety allegations against one of its bishops.

Dr Gershinen Dajur, General Secretary, Church of Nigeria, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday.

Dajur, who said that the church took the allegations seriously, assured the public of its commitment to integrity and transparency.

“The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) is aware of reports circulating on social media and in the mainstream press concerning allegations of financial impropriety involving one of our Bishops.

“As a Church committed to the teachings of Christ, and to integrity and accountability, we take these matters with the utmost seriousness.

“Accordingly, we have immediately constituted an independent, high-level investigation panel, chaired by a distinguished retired judge, to examine the allegations and to establish the truth,” he said.

Dajur said the panel would ensure complete transparency and fairness throughout the process.

“The Church respectfully urges its members, other stakeholders in the Body of Christ, and the general public to refrain from speculation while the process is ongoing.”

He added that the Church would take appropriate action in line with biblical principles and the governance structures already well established within the Communion.

“Our faith reminds us that the Church is greater than any individual, and we remain steadfast in our mission to serve God and humanity with sincerity.

“We earnestly ask for your prayers for wisdom, unity, and healing during this period,” he said (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

WAICA conference to focus on insurers’ climate role
Economy/Business

WAICA conference to focus on insurers’ climate role

By Taiye Olayemi

The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) says the 2025 Education Conference of the West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA) will highlight insurers’ role in tackling climate change.

NIA is organising the programme on behalf of Nigeria’s insurance market.

Mrs Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, in a statement on Tuesday, said the conference would promote regional cooperation.

She said the conference, scheduled for October in Lagos, would equip insurers with tools to manage the evolving climate landscape.

Nwachukwu added that the meeting will address climate-resilient insurance models, regulatory frameworks, digital claims processing innovations, green underwriting, regional collaboration, and public-private partnerships.

She noted other issues include premium discounts for low-carbon assets and government-backed reinsurance pools to strengthen the industry’s response to climate risks.

The conference will also discuss insurers’ role in safeguarding communities and economies, while aligning with international climate commitments, including the Paris Agreement.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting will bring together delegates from Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other West African countries.

NAN also reports that the theme of the conference is ‘The West African Insurer in the Face of Climate Change’.

According to Nwachukwu, delegates will gain insights into best practices from Anglophone West Africa and engage with leaders shaping climate-aware insurance in the region.

“Confirmed speakers include Mr Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), who will deliver the keynote address.

“Also expected are Mr Bockarie Kaloko, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Finance; Mr Wole Oshin, Group Managing Director, Custodian Investment Plc; and Dr Abiba Zakariah, Ghana’s Acting Commissioner of Insurance.

“Other participants include regulators, government officials, industry professionals, and development agencies,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NIIRA: AXA Mansard seeks disciplined execution
Economy/Business

NIIRA: AXA Mansard seeks disciplined execution

 

By Taiye Olayemi

AXA Mansard Insurance has urged operators to support the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025 through disciplined execution.

 

The company made the appeal in a statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday by its Chief Client Officer, Rashidat Adebisi.

 

Adebisi said that restoring trust and deepening industry growth required credible implementation beyond policy announcements.

 

She noted that industry credibility would not be judged by balance sheet size alone but by the number of Nigerians adequately protected through insurance.

 

She described recapitalisation and the risk-based capital framework under NIIRA as a historic chance to reposition Nigeria’s insurance industry.

 

However, she cautioned that capitalisation or digitisation reforms without effective execution would neither enhance customer experience nor strengthen investor confidence.

 

Adebisi recalled the 2004 banking recapitalisation which cut the number of banks from 89 to 25, while tripling capitalisation and improving public confidence.

 

She urged the insurance industry to replicate such transformation for sustainable growth.

 

“The NIIRA presents our industry with an opportunity to support Nigeria’s one trillion dollars economy by addressing demand, supply, and operational challenges,” Adebisi stated.

 

She explained that the framework empowers insurers to enhance service delivery, improve customer confidence, and strengthen trust.

 

On the risk-based capital framework, Adebisi described it as “primarily a customer protection tool, and secondarily a regulatory tool”.

 

She said aligning capital buffers with underwriting risks would enforce better product design, pricing discipline, and prudent investment, assuring stronger policyholder protection.

 

Responding to consolidation concerns, Adebisi said mergers should be seen as renewal for a stronger industry, not as loss.

 

She explained that consolidation would enable insurers to invest in technology, speed up claims, widen distribution, and compete regionally.

 

Adebisi lamented Nigeria’s insurance penetration remained below one per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

 

She compared this with 17 per cent in South Africa, three per cent in Kenya, and two per cent in Ghana, noting Nigeria’s figure was still weak.

 

“If NIIRA is well executed, insurance can unlock long-term funds for infrastructure, provide MSME cover, and boost investor confidence,” she said.

 

She emphasised that MSMEs represent over 90 per cent of Nigerian businesses, making their protection essential for national growth.

 

“Regulators have provided the framework. It is now up to us, the operators, to rebuild trust, embrace digitisation, and deliver inclusive products,” she said.

 

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Kamal Tayo Oropo

Stakeholders converge to tackle flooding, other emergencies
Environment

Stakeholders converge to tackle flooding, other emergencies

 

 

 

 

 

By Yetunde Fatungase

Stakeholders from the six South-West states on Tuesday converged on Ijebu-Ode for a three-day multi-sectoral emergency preparedness workshop to address flooding and other emergencies bedeviling the region.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the Oyo State Government in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Presenting a paper, UNICEF’s Emergency Specialist, Abuja, Mr Olayinka Afolabi, linked recurring flooding and cholera outbreaks in many south-west states to poor sanitation and open defecation.

 

He said a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) risk analysis identified Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Osun as states vulnerable to cholera due to sanitation challenges.

 

According to Afolabi, citing NEMA’s countrywide risk analysis, 64 suspected cholera cases were recorded as of week 30 (July) with no fatalities, representing a 0.0 per cent case fatality rate.

 

Afolabi added that the figure showed a 74 per cent decrease compared to cases reported in week 29.

 

“Cumulatively from week one to 30, 113 deaths have been reported with a case fatality rate of 2.4 per cent from 4,708 suspected cases.

 

“In total for 2025, 35 states have recorded at least one suspected case across 199 local government areas,” he said.

 

Afolabi, however, identified four planning processes for emergency preparedness to include, risk analysis, scenarios, anticipated response, and preparedness.

 

He noted that emergencies were part of human existence but lack of preparedness and response continued to exacerbate the impact on communities and hindered recovery efforts.

He added that focus must be on reducing disaster risk and improving preparedness.

He urged government at all levels to equip agencies that managed disasters and support emergency preparedness.

 

He explained that “if you spend two dollars on emergency preparedness, you save between six and eight thousand dollars that would otherwise be spent if the emergency actually occurs.”

 

Outlining the objectives of the workshop, Mr Oluwasola Olanipekun, UNICEF Planning, Monitoring and Reporting Specialist, stressed the need for activating contingency plans backed by effective response.

 

Olanipekun said the workshop aimed to strengthen coordination of emergency management across south-west states, while ensuring that children and women — the most vulnerable groups during crises — remained a priority in all response efforts.

 

“Once emergency happens, we need to activate our plans for effective response,” he said.

He tasked each state to adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures for coordinating response to emergencies.

In his welcome address, Mr Rotimi Babalola, the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation, said the goal of the meeting was to strengthen the collective readiness of key stakeholders in emergency response.

He noted that emergencies required timely, coordinated and multi-sectoral action, hence, the need for preparedness.

Babalola urged participants to actively engage in discussions, exchange ideas, and translate the outcomes of the workshop into actionable measures in their respective states.

“Emergencies as we all know, do not give prior notice. They demand timely, coordinated and multi-sectoral action.

“This workshop, therefore, provides us with a unique platform to share knowledge, review strategies, and build stronger collaboration across sectors and states.

He expressed confidence that “the skills, partnerships, and action plans developed here will go a long way in saving lives, reducing risks, and safeguarding our communities.” (NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Basic Education: UBEC reaffirms commitment to bridging planning, performance gaps
Education

Basic Education: UBEC reaffirms commitment to bridging planning, performance gaps

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu/Oluwatope Lawanson

 

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has restated its commitment to bridging the gap between planning and performance in Nigeria’s basic education sector.

 

 

Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, made this known during the 27th quarterly meeting of UBEC Management with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) in Ikeja on Monday.

 

 

 

Garba noted reforms and repositioning have achieved significant progress but stressed these are only initial steps towards delivering greater impact in Nigeria’s basic education system.

 

 

 

The meeting’s theme was: ‘Bridging the gap between planning and performance towards achieving quality basic education’.

 

 

 

She highlighted key achievements, including revision of UBEC’s matching grant formula to strengthen equity, accountability, and data-driven allocation of resources across states.

 

 

 

According to her, 27 states have accessed part of ₦121 billion backlog of matching grants in 2024, representing a 65 per cent improvement.

 

 

 

She announced the revamp of the two-decade-old Basic Education Action Plan (BEAP), designed to promote needs-based planning and accelerate programme implementation across states.

 

 

 

Other achievements include constructing 4,900 classrooms, renovating 3,000, and supplying 354,000 pieces of furniture in 2025, directly benefiting over 2.3 million learners.

 

 

 

Garba also launched Nigeria’s largest teacher development programme, involving ₦22 billion investment in capacity building, aimed at improving teaching standards and learning outcomes nationwide.

 

 

 

Additionally, UBEC has digitised quality assurance monitoring, training over 500 officers to use real-time electronic tools to strengthen evaluation and supervision of schools.

 

 

 

The UBEC boss noted the reforms mark significant progress but stressed consolidation through stronger accountability and performance management frameworks is essential for sustainability.

 

She emphasised Nigeria’s challenge is not weak policy but poor execution, with gaps often arising from weak institutions, inconsistent funding, and ineffective programme tracking.

 

 

 

Garba said this disconnect informed the meeting’s theme, describing it as urgent. She added UBEC cannot achieve real transformation without strong state-level collaboration.

 

 

 

“Only through consistency and joint commitment can every Nigerian child have access to education and receive the quality learning they truly deserve,” she said.

 

 

 

Dean of SUBEB Chairmen, Prof Shehu Adaramaja, highlighted the importance of data-driven planning, digital tools, and evidence-based decision-making in improving education delivery.

 

 

 

He urged UBEC and SUBEBs to conduct regular learner assessments and ensure schools are equipped with classrooms, libraries, technology, and modern learning materials.

 

 

 

The meeting ended with renewed pledges from UBEC and SUBEBs to align strategies, strengthen accountability, and collectively achieve quality education for every Nigerian child. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Special Report: Nigeria’s influence on Europe’s football transfer market
Sports

Special Report: Nigeria’s influence on Europe’s football transfer market

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By David Oladele and Babatunde Ogunrinde

 

The 2025/26 European football season has opened with Nigerian players commanding attention. From blockbuster transfers to careful career moves, their influence cuts across all levels.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria’s footballing diaspora has never been stronger. Players of Nigerian heritage are now considered strategic assets for Europe’s leading clubs, shaping recruitment and competitive strategies.

 

 

 

 

Eberechi Eze produced the summer’s biggest headline. Crystal Palace’s creative midfielder was courted by Tottenham but eventually joined Arsenal in a deal worth up to £67.5 million.

 

 

 

 

Though of Nigerian parentage, Eze represents England internationally. His arrival at Arsenal alongside Bukayo Saka promises one of the Premier League’s most exciting attacking partnerships.

 

 

 

 

Arsenal hijacked Tottenham’s pursuit with a higher offer. Eze, an Arsenal academy product and boyhood supporter, was unveiled with the club’s iconic number 10 shirt.

 

 

 

 

Tottenham’s disappointment was obvious. Yet manager Thomas Frank insisted his players remained focused. Analysts criticised Spurs for failing to act decisively during the crucial negotiations.

 

 

 

 

Ademola Lookman faced a different outcome. Inter Milan attempted to sign him but withdrew after refusing to match Atalanta’s valuation. He remains central to Atalanta’s campaign.

 

 

 

 

Lookman continues attracting interest from Arsenal, Napoli and several Premier League clubs. With the window closing on Sept. 2, further bids may still materialise.

 

 

 

 

Other Nigerians followed quieter paths. Chinonso Emeka, aged 23, left AS Trenčín for Dukla Prague, seeking growth in the Czech First League and long-term career opportunities.

 

 

 

 

This route is familiar. Many Nigerians begin careers in Eastern or Central Europe before progressing to stronger leagues. It creates steady development and sustained visibility.

 

 

 

 

Several confirmed transfers strengthened Nigeria’s footprint. Paul Onuachu sealed a permanent move to Trabzonspor. Moses Simon joined Paris FC, while Bright Osayi-Samuel switched to Birmingham City.

 

 

 

 

Semi Ajayi signed for Hull City. Chidozie Awaziem rejoined Nantes. Henry Onyekuru moved to Turkey’s Gençlerbirliği. Benjamin Tanimu signed for Morocco’s Maghreb Fez. Adebayo Adeleye joined Volos.

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, uncertainties remain. Victor Osimhen returned to Napoli after scoring heavily on loan at Galatasaray. Napoli rejected a €70 million bid amid Juventus and Galatasaray interest.

 

 

 

 

Victor Boniface’s move to AC Milan is edging closer.

 

 

 

 

Milan and Bayer Leverkusen have agreed a loan with option to buy, though the deal hinges on extensive medical checks. Final confirmation is expected soon.

 

 

 

 

Umar Sadiq stays with Real Sociedad but faces interest from Qatar. Ola Aina, now a free agent, is linked with Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester City before Sept. 2.

 

 

 

 

Kelechi Iheanacho has returned to Sevilla but is deemed surplus to requirements. A summer departure is likely, with mid-table clubs considering moves before the deadline.

 

 

 

 

Toluwalase Arokodare, Belgium’s Golden Boot winner, attracts Fulham and Manchester United. Premier League clubs must act quickly with only days left before the window shuts.

 

 

 

 

A fresh generation of Nigerians is also emerging. Hafiz Umar Ibrahim, aged 19, impressed for Reims in France, scoring in a Coupe de France semi-final.

 

 

 

 

Honest Ahanor, a Genoa defender, is close to a €20 million move to Atalanta. His future should be resolved before the Sept. 2 deadline.

 

 

 

 

Norway continues nurturing Nigerian youth. Ogboji and Arierhi both signed long-term deals with Lillestrøm, continuing the Scandinavian gateway tradition for developing Nigerian footballers.

 

 

 

 

Arthur Okonkwo, formerly of Arsenal, signed for Wrexham. The goalkeeper committed to a three-year deal and is expected to feature regularly in League One.

 

 

 

 

Established Nigerians are already influencing early-season fixtures. Nathan Tella remains vital for Bayer Leverkusen, contributing more than 15 goal involvements across competitions in 2025.

 

 

 

 

Calvin Bassey anchors Fulham’s defence in the Premier League. His strong displays underline Nigeria’s depth in defensive as well as attacking positions across Europe.

 

 

 

 

Samuel Chukwueze is regaining top form with AC Milan. His pace and dribbling have restored confidence, following an inconsistent spell earlier in his career.

 

 

 

 

Maduka Okoye, now Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, is rebuilding steadily after suspension. His determination reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence between the posts in Serie A.

 

 

 

 

These developments shape Nigeria’s national team outlook. Dual nationality challenges persist, exemplified by Eze’s England commitment, alongside Bukayo Saka and Tammy Abraham’s choices to represent England rather than Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

Stars like Osimhen, Lookman, Tella and Bassey sharpen abilities against Europe’s toughest opposition each week. Their form remains crucial for Nigeria’s upcoming tournaments.

 

 

 

 

The 2025/26 season confirms Nigerian players are central to European football. They influence record transfers, consistent performances and future planning, both at club and international levels.

 

 

 

 

With the window closing on Sept. 2 in Europe’s top leagues and Sept. 15 in Turkey, there remains time for more Nigerian moves to unfold.

 

 

 

 

Whether through headline-grabbing deals, steady progress in lesser-known leagues, or promising youth breakthroughs, Nigerian footballers embody resilience and ambition. Their presence continues reshaping European football’s direction. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

We are more committed to bridging the gender gap in STEAM – W.TEC
Science & Tech

We are more committed to bridging the gender gap in STEAM – W.TEC

 

 

 

 

By Funmilola Gboteku

 

The Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) says it is more committed to bridging the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), through its flagship programme, She Creates Camp.

 

Diamond Oshomoji, Programme Coordinator of W.TEC, said this on Saturday during the graduation of the 18th edition of the She Creates Camp Initiative held at Laureates College, Ikeja.

 

Oshomoji said that the initiative was not only to bridge the gender gap but also to prepare young women for careers in fields often seen as male-dominated.

 

She said the two-week residential camp with the theme: “Byte by Byte, AI for Action”, trained 40 girls in robotics, artificial intelligence-powered web development, internet of things (IoT) and marine engineering.

 

She said the girls were also trained in filmmaking, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

 

Oshomoji added that the camp also incorporated creative crafts such as bead-making, fashion design, painting and other hands-on activities to inspire innovation, teamwork and problem-solving among the girls.

 

“Nigerian girls must acquire 21st century skills such as artificial intelligence and robotics to remain competitive in the global technology space.

 

“Thirty-nine out of the 40 girls who attended the camp were through full scholarships provided by corporate partners, individuals and W.TEC.

 

“This gesture describes a strong demonstration of support for female inclusion in technology.

 

“Beyond the technical and creative skills, the camp builds confidence, teamwork and leadership.

 

“We believe that if girls are exposed early to technology and innovation, they will grow to compete favourably and even lead in the sector,” Oshomoji said.

 

Mr Yemi Odutola, W.TEC’s External Relations Lead, said the camp had consistently transformed participants over the years.

 

“We see them come in shy, uncertain and doubtful, but within two weeks, they are presenting projects, pitching ideas and speaking boldly.

 

“During this camp they developed innovations such as smart dustbins, AI-powered lights and websites, alongside creative outputs like art and crafts,” Odutola said.

 

Mr Tobi Durojaiye, an Advisory Board Member of W.TEC, said the camp had proven its long-term impact, as some past participants were now returning as mentors.

 

“An alumna who joined the camp in 2014 and is now a software engineer returned this year to mentor the girls. That is the multiplier effect we want to see, the older ones inspiring the younger ones,” he said.

 

He called for more sponsorships to scale up the camp nationwide, stressing that the future of Nigeria’s economy depended on how well the country invested in girls and women in technology.

 

Two of the 2025 participants,  Ifeoluwa Ojo from Epe and Mutiat Moshood from Apapa, said the programme gave them an exposure they never imagined.

 

Ojo said she was inspired to pursue a career in robotics, while Moshood said she gained confidence in public speaking and teamwork.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the She Creates Camp, launched 18 years ago, is W.TEC’s flagship programme aimed at providing young girls within the ages of 13 and 17 early exposure to technology, creativity, mentorship and leadership skills. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Group seeks accurate representation of Yoruba culture
Culture & Tourism

Group seeks accurate representation of Yoruba culture

 

 

 

 

By Babajide Awoyinfa

The Think Yoruba First Ogo Adulawo Socio-Cultural Association (TYF Worldwide) has called for accurate representation of Yoruba culture to safeguard its heritage and identity.

 

Mr Oluwatobi Sanwo, Lead Legal Consultant of TYF, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos that falsified narratives threatened Yoruba civilisation and intellectual integrity globally.

 

He explained that the conference was convened to highlight cultural defamation and historical distortion against the Yoruba people, found in a recently published academic book.

 

According to him, the book falsely claims that the non-Yoruba group were original inhabitants of Ile-Ife, alleging Yoruba were immigrants who usurped authority in their ancestral home.

 

Other falsehoods, he noted, included a fabricated empire preceding Ile-Ife, assertions unsupported by Ifa Corpus, oral traditions, or credible historical and anthropological research.

 

Sanwo condemned the distortions as cultural defamation, intellectual dishonesty, and potential ethnic provocation.

 

He stressed that Ile-Ife remained the undisputed cradle of Yoruba civilisation, recognised worldwide by scholars and authorities.

 

He said TYF had submitted petitions to Nigerian and international institutions, while raising public awareness to defend Yoruba heritage and intellectual truth against distortion and falsified narratives.

 

The association urged Yoruba people worldwide to unite in defence of Ile-Ife, while calling on the media to responsibly promote authentic Yoruba history and scholarship.

 

Sanwo reaffirmed TYF’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and collaboration with traditional rulers, academics, and the press, insisting Yoruba history was sacred, Ile-Ife non-negotiable, and identity indivisible.

 

He emphasised that TYF does not promote hatred toward any ethnic group, but would resist attempts to undermine Yoruba civilisation or distort ancestral history.

 

The association also appealed to government agencies, universities, and international cultural organisations to support Yoruba scholarship, fund research, and strengthen frameworks preserving African histories and indigenous knowledge systems. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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