News Agency of Nigeria
Nigeria, China deepen ties at joint independence, national day celebration
General News

Nigeria, China deepen ties at joint independence, national day celebration

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

Nigeria and China on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment to stronger ties as both nations jointly marked Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary and China’s 76th National Day.

 

 

 

The colourful celebration, which also coincided with the Mid-Autumn Festival, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, cultural groups and students in Lagos.

 

 

 

Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Relationns, Mr Jaafaru Yakubu, hailed China’s Consul General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, for elevating bilateral relations.

 

 

 

He described her as “a true friend of Nigeria”, praising her role in facilitating business partnerships, scholarships for students and cultural exchanges strengthening people-to-people ties.

 

 

 

Yakubu also lauded Dr Eric Ni, Chairman of the China Industrial and Commercial Enterprise Association, for championing business collaboration that created jobs, encouraged technology transfer and supported community development.

 

 

 

“Chinese companies in Nigeria have not only contributed to infrastructure development but also prioritised local content and sustainable growth,” Yakubu said.

 

 

 

He urged deeper collaboration in renewable energy, the digital economy, healthcare and agriculture, while calling on China to expand educational opportunities for Nigerian and Chinese students.

 

 

 

Representing the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Simon Omo-Ezomo, said cooperation with China aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

 

 

He noted that the agenda prioritises industrialisation, diversification and job creation, offering Nigeria and China a platform to achieve shared prosperity through mutual economic engagement.

 

 

 

Ni encouraged the Chinese community to contribute positively to Nigeria’s development while celebrating the enduring bonds of friendship between the two countries.

 

 

 

“This unique convergence represents the harmony between China and Nigeria, two nations with rich histories, bright futures and growing friendship,” he said.

 

 

 

The event featured vibrant cultural performances by the Hauxing Arts Troupe, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Overseas Chinese performers and other groups. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Ara decries poor support for culture
Culture & Tourism

Ara decries poor support for culture

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

Nigeria’s foremost female talking drummer, Aralola Olamuyiwa, popularly known as Ara, has decried the lack of support from local brands for artistes promoting indigenous culture.

 

 

Ara spoke during the second edition of her cultural showcase, ‘ARA Monthly’, held at the KAP Hub, Kunle Afolayan Production Centre, in Lagos.

 

 

 

She decried that several corporate organisations had turned down her requests for sponsorship.

 

 

 

According to her, the absence of support is forcing many talented artistes to seek better opportunities abroad.

 

 

 

“It is disheartening that in the first edition, only two people bought tickets. For this second edition, only one person paid,” she said.

 

 

 

She stressed that brands needed to support artistes in order to sustain and promote Nigeria’s rich culture.

 

 

 

“Several times, I have been turned down by organisations that should support us. Many colleagues have left the country due to lack of support,” Ara said.

 

 

 

She added that Nigeria is globally recognised as a cultural hub blessed with unique heritage and talent.

 

 

 

The drummer thrilled the audience with a vibrant performance that combined drumming, singing and dancing.

 

 

 

She performed her song ‘Ase’, inspired by her admiration of God’s creation and the spiritual authority (Ase) bestowed on humanity.

 

 

 

Ara revealed that the song’s melody first came to her in a dream.

 

 

 

She also performed folklores and her song ‘Ife’, noting that unlike songs centred on heartbreaks, hers celebrated the theme of abundant love.

 

 

 

At intervals during her performance, Ara spoke against immorality, theft and lies, urging Nigerians to embrace honesty and uprightness.

 

 

 

She expressed gratitude to filmmaker Kunle Afolayan for providing the performance venue free of charge, describing his gesture as a major encouragement.

 

 

 

Ara reiterated that cultural promotion required the backing of brands and institutions to thrive.

 

 

 

She warned that without such support, Nigeria risked losing its rich indigenous heritage.

 

 

 

Speaking on culture, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, a renowned Ifa priest, poet and dramatist from Osogbo, also urged the revival of indigenous religion and practices.

 

 

 

Elebuibon lamented that Nigerians had long been conditioned to neglect their cultural heritage.

 

 

 

He described culture as a vital resource that should never be relegated.

 

 

 

Explaining the ‘Orisha’ concept, Elebuibon said, “The Yoruba concept of Olorisha refers to individuals spiritually endowed to perform wonders, thereby attracting followers.”

 

 

 

He argued that missionaries disrupted this understanding by relegating African traditions and imposing foreign religions, fearing indigenous practices might prove superior.

 

 

 

He maintained it was not madness to uphold the practices of one’s ancestors.

 

 

 

Elebuibon also praised Yoruba names, describing them as unique, beautiful and meaningful.

 

 

 

Speaking on peaceful coexistence among traditional worshippers, Muslims and Christians, he said harmony could only be achieved if adherents refrained from mocking one another’s beliefs. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Lighting expo records N600m deals, boosts China-Africa cooperation
Economy/Business

Lighting expo records N600m deals, boosts China-Africa cooperation

 

By Taiye Olayemi

The 2025 Nigeria International Lighting Exhibition has ended in Lagos, with on-site transactions exceeding N600 million and fresh commitments to deepen China-Africa cooperation in lighting and energy.

The exhibition, with the theme ‘Zero-Carbon Lighting: Supporting Nigeria’s Energy Transition Goals’, was held from Wednesday, Sept. 17 to Friday, Sept. 19 in Lagos.

Ms Lisa Lin Xueying, General Manager of Zhongshan Company Ltd., organisers of the expo, said the exhibition attracted over 100 global enterprises alongside several local firms.

She said over 3,000 professional attendees witnessed the signing of landmark agreements between local and foreign companies during the two-day event.

According to her, VellMax and Solar-Sunbest Integrated Services Ltd signed an intent order valued at N100 million.

She added that MXS Home, Buchi Lighting, Great Future, Cieto Lighting, De Solid Vision and De King entered long-term partnerships estimated at N500 million annually.

Describing the outcome as phenomenal, Xueying said it had positioned Nigeria as a hub for Africa’s lighting industry.

She noted that the development had transformed China-Africa lighting cooperation “from blueprint to reality.”

“The deals signed with local entrepreneurs will further open Nigeria’s lighting and energy sector,” she said.

Xueying stated that the West Africa-exclusive exhibition set records in commercial value, technological empowerment, knowledge sharing, and innovation over the past three days.

She revealed that more than 20 exhibitors showcased products ranging from smart lighting solutions to off-grid photovoltaic systems, highlighting technology’s role in lighting up Africa.

According to her, ten thematic forums were held on tax policies, professional standards, and investment opportunities, guiding firms planning operations in Nigeria.

She expressed gratitude to exhibitors, describing the event as “a beacon for Africa, lighting up Lagos with technological innovation.”

Looking ahead, Xueying announced plans to establish the Africa Lighting Industry Alliance and the China-Africa Technology Transfer Centre in 2026.

Commending the organisers, Mr Anthony Ifeanyi, Chief Executive Officer of Cieto Lighting, said he secured a distributorship deal worth N100 million.

“I appreciate the organisers of this expo and pray it continues, enabling more local entrepreneurs to benefit,” Ifeanyi said.

Also, Mr Agochukwu Elijah, Managing Director of MXS Home, said the event provided a long-awaited opportunity to expand his business.

Earlier, Chief Casmir Emenine, President of Lagos Island Electrical Dealers Association, stressed that the expo went beyond showcasing lamps and fixtures.

He said it demonstrated how technology and creativity intersect to shape experiences, moods, and possibilities.

According to him, lighting often connects with architecture, interior design and artificial intelligence, enhancing comfort, safety, and functionality. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Firm reiterates plan to improve Nigeria’s diagnostic capacity
Health

Firm reiterates plan to improve Nigeria’s diagnostic capacity

By Oluwafunke Ishola

U.S. medical supplier, Cassona Global Imaging Ltd., has reiterated its plan to improve lives and health systems in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa by making advanced medical imaging technology more accessible.

‎Cassona’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr John Chigbu, at the company’s third anniversary in Lagos, noted that improving Africa’s diagnostic capacity was critical to enable prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases for improved patient outcomes.

According to him, the plan is to make healthcare delivery affordable and accessible for more citizens.

Chigbu emphasised that Cassona’s mission extends beyond equipment supply to include building healthcare ecosystems through hospital construction, offering financing programmes, providing installation and maintenance, and developing local talent with training and recruitment initiatives.

‎He noted that many African health workers lack hands-on experience with modern machines, which Cassona aims to bridge through structured training and continuous support.

“The company has also begun building diagnostic centres and fast-tracked hospitals to help private practitioners deliver quality care without the heavy financial burden of acquiring equipment outright.

“We bring equipment at more affordable rates. You pay 20 per cent upfront and spread the balance over 24 months, while we maintain it so it never fails.

“We will also train doctors, radiologists, sonographers and provide backup power systems to keep equipment running during power cuts,” he said.

‎

‎Having first tested its model in Ghana, Chigbu said Cassona has installed over 140 machines in three years without a single breakdown — a feat he attributes to strict maintenance systems and trust in healthcare providers’ professionalism.

Chigbu noted that Cassona’s operations supported by the U.S. Embassy aims to improve access to quality healthcare, boost economic growth by creating jobs, and foster sustainable development for robust health infrastructure in Nigeria, and Africa.

Also, Prof. Enoch Uche, Abia State Commissioner for Health, called for improved public-private partnerships to accelerate universal healthcare in Nigeria.

Uche pledged the state’s commitment to partner with Cassona to drive quality, accessible and affordable healthcare, adding that Abia State is driving a healthcare revolution.

He disclosed that the state had commenced construction in its primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals, noting that 50 primary health care centres were functionalised within two weeks.

Similarly, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser on Health to the Lagos State Governor, said strategic public-private partnerships are crucial to accelerate Lagos THEMES+ health agenda.

‎Ogunyemi noted that partnering with companies such as Cassona would ensure better diagnostics, better treatment outcomes, and improved trust in the public health system.

“We know as a government that we cannot do this alone. So, we need people like this to help us get to where we want to be, which is access to affordable, quality healthcare,” she said.

She emphasised that access to high-tech imaging equipment would ensure the health system tackles a broad range of diseases with precision and reliability. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Special Report: Nigerian football league at crossroads as stakeholders seek reforms
Sports

Special Report: Nigerian football league at crossroads as stakeholders seek reforms

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Vivian Ahanmisi

 

Nigeria’s domestic football league is at a defining moment, with stakeholders demanding urgent reforms to revive fan interest, restore credibility and align with global football best practices.

 

 

 

The stakeholders spoke on Sunday in Lagos with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

 

 

 

They argue that without stronger structures, sustainable funding and improved visibility, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) risks further decline, undermining local football and its capacity to compete internationally.

 

 

 

Poor infrastructure, inconsistent calendars, weak sponsorship, inadequate marketing and poor officiating were repeatedly identified as obstacles preventing the NPFL from attracting fans and keeping players within the country.

 

 

 

Abdulrahman Gbadamosi of Sebioba Football Club, Ibadan, emphasised aligning the calendar with international standards. He said this would enhance player development and improve club performances in continental competitions.

 

 

 

“Our calendar must match international schedules. When we run properly, our players will compete better in Africa and our clubs will prepare more effectively for tournaments,” he explained.

 

 

 

Gbadamosi argued for professionalism and accountability. “We need to run our league like a business. Clubs should be professionalised, and players must enjoy proper welfare. That improves overall quality.”

 

 

 

He added: “When the quality improves, fans will naturally return to the stadium. With proper reforms, the NPFL can become one of Africa’s most attractive products.”

 

 

 

According to him, technology is central to growth. “Live streaming, television rights and social media engagement are key. If fans cannot access games easily, they quickly lose interest,” he warned.

 

 

 

He said visibility encourages investment. “When fans can watch consistently, sponsors will arrive because they see numbers. Accessibility, excitement and consistency drive sponsorship and revenue,” he stressed.

 

 

 

Citing models abroad, he said: “The English Premier League, La Liga and South Africa’s PSL prove that structure, marketing and accountability attract massive followership. Nigeria has similar potential.”

 

 

 

On stadium attendance, Gbadamosi urged improved security, family-friendly match-day experiences and affordable tickets.

 

 

 

 

 

“Fans want comfort, safety and entertainment. Music, food courts and side attractions make games memorable,” he suggested.

 

 

 

He also appealed to corporate organisations. “Sponsorship is vital. Strong financial backing enhances branding, recruitment and competitiveness.

 

 

 

“With infrastructure upgrades and promotion, the league could regain its past glory,” he said.

 

 

 

Similarly, a football analyst, Monday Ahanmisi, stressed safety as the number one issue.

 

 

 

“When fans feel safe from harassment, violence or poor crowd control, they will return. Security must be paramount,” he argued.

 

 

 

He advocated affordable ticketing. “Families need encouragement. Discounted packages and reasonably priced tickets will boost turnout, particularly when matched with quality football and engaging match-day activities,” he added.

 

 

 

Ahanmisi also emphasised entertainment. “Stadia should not only be about 90 minutes. Pre-match events, half-time shows, music and food courts make games exciting for different age groups,” he said.

 

 

 

According to him, visibility is equally important. “When matches are promoted across television, radio and social media, anticipation builds. Young people then identify with local clubs and attend in large numbers,” he said.

 

 

 

He further urged facility upgrades. “Modern stadia must have clean restrooms, comfortable seating and digital ticketing. Match-days must be family-friendly to rebuild trust and attract new fans,” Ahanmisi explained.

 

 

 

Sports editor, Christian Okpara, traced problems to inadequate funding. “When players are poorly paid, clubs cannot attract or retain top talent. That’s why many seek opportunities in other African leagues,” he said.

 

 

 

He offered examples. “In Tanzania, some players earn 3,000 dollars monthly. Even 1,000 dollars abroad outweighs what Nigerian clubs pay. Naturally, talented players leave,” Okpara explained.

 

 

 

The effect, he said, is evident. “In five years, the farthest Nigerian clubs have gone in CAF competitions is the quarter-finals. Without quality players, success is impossible,” he noted.

 

 

 

Okpara recalled the 1980s and 1990s when stadia overflowed with fans. “Back then, people came to see stars. Now, most Nigerians cannot identify NPFL players,” he lamented.

 

 

 

He criticised the culture within supporters’ clubs. “In Europe, fans sustain clubs through tickets. Here, many expect to be paid and transported, leaving clubs dependent on state governors,” he said.

 

 

 

However, Okpara praised recent reforms. “The club licensing programme is vital. If clubs restructure, list publicly and attract investors, fortunes will improve. But political resistance often blocks such changes,” he explained.

 

 

 

Another football analyst, Monday Izegagbe, urged the NPFL to benchmark globally.

 

 

 

“The league must command respect beyond Nigeria. Improving competitiveness and quality will naturally bring back fans in large numbers,” he said.

 

 

 

He stressed facilities as essential. “Fans must feel safe, comfortable and entertained. Well-maintained infrastructure is not a luxury but a necessity for any league that wants growth,” Izegagbe emphasised.

 

 

 

According to him, international partnerships would strengthen the NPFL.

 

 

 

“Collaboration with European or South American clubs can open doors for players, coaches and commercial ventures while raising the league’s brand value,” he explained.

 

 

 

He further highlighted digital engagement. “Today’s fan is digital. If the NPFL ignores online platforms, it risks losing an entire generation of supporters,” Izegagbe cautioned.

 

 

 

He proposed innovative strategies. “Virtual tours, fantasy leagues and interactive sessions sustain fan loyalty.

 

 

 

“Using stadiums for community programmes reinforces clubs’ social responsibility and strengthens community ties,” he suggested.

 

 

 

Izegagbe, however, expressed cautious optimism. “With deliberate investment in infrastructure, digital innovation and grassroots development, the NPFL can secure international recognition and regain pride of place among Nigerians,” he said.

 

 

 

In spite of challenges, analysts agreed the NPFL retains enormous potential. It has produced stars for Europe and the Super Eagles, yet continues to struggle with domestic structures and dwindling followership.

 

 

 

Stakeholders agreed that the league’s revival depends on firm leadership.

 

 

 

Strong governance, consistent scheduling, fair officiating and transparent commercial frameworks are critical if Nigeria hopes to restore domestic football’s lost glory.

 

 

 

Ultimately, the consensus is that Nigeria already has abundant talent. What is missing is structure. If addressed, the NPFL could again inspire pride and continental dominance. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Association trains 60 mechanics on electric vehicle maintenance
General News

Association trains 60 mechanics on electric vehicle maintenance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Florence Onuegbu

 

 

 

The Electric Mobility Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN) says it is training 60 mechanics for Electric Vehicle (EV) repairs and maintenance.

 

 

 

The President of EMPAN, Mr Dapo Adesina, made this known at the ongoing Electric Vehicle (EV) training for roadside mechanics in Lagos.

 

 

 

Adesina explained that the training, which would run for six days, involved two cohorts, each of which would be trained for three days, while the graduation ceremony would hold on Saturday.

 

 

 

He added that the training included both practical and theoretical elements of dealing with the repair and maintenance of electric tricycles and motorcycles.

 

 

 

“One of the challenges of adopting the use of electric vehicles in Nigeria is capacity building; to have the capacity for the technical people to handle it.

 

 

 

“That is why one of our major objectives at EMPAN is to fill in the gap; to be able to provide support in terms of training.

 

 

 

“We are training about 60 roadside mechanics in two and three wheeler, that is the Keke and the Okadas; that will be competent enough to handle the repairs and maintenance of those electric vehicles.

 

 

 

“So that is capacity; we need to build it, and that is what we are doing in this ecosystem,” the president said.

 

 

 

According to him, electric vehicles and their mobility are eco-friendly because they eliminate tailpipe emissions, reducing harmful pollutants like CO2 and CO released into the atmosphere.

 

 

 

He noted that another advantage is the significant reduction in noise pollution, as electric vehicles operated much quieter than conventional vehicles.

 

 

 

Adesina, however, said that the challenges for the adoption of electric vehicles included high cost of acquisition, charging infrastructure, high import duties, myths and misconceptions about electric vehicles, among other reasons.

 

 

 

He also said that Nigeria’s weak grid system and low power generation further complicated the adoption of electric mobility.

 

 

 

He proposed innovative solutions, such as personal power plants and solar systems, to overcome the charging infrastructure challenge.

 

 

 

Mr Sebastian Gruss, the Project Manager, Social Entrepreneurship at Siemens Stiftung, emphasised the importance of collaboration to support the transition to electric mobility.

 

 

 

Gruss said that Siemens Foundation would continue to support local entrepreneurs and solutions toward boosting Nigeria’s economy.

 

 

 

Mr Gad Ashiagbor, Executive Director at Africanev and one of the trainers, stated that electric vehicles make up just one per cent of vehicles in Nigeria.

 

 

 

Ashiagbor emphasised the need for government policies to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

Lighting expo opens in Lagos with 120 exhibitors
General News

Lighting expo opens in Lagos with 120 exhibitors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

The 2025 Nigeria International Lighting Expo opened in Lagos on Wednesday, bringing together more than 120 exhibitors to showcase zero-carbon innovations reshaping the future of lighting technology.

 

 

 

The three-day event, holding from Sept. 17 to Sept. 19 at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, attracted industry stakeholders, investors, and government officials seeking opportunities in Nigeria’s growing energy efficiency market.

 

 

 

Lisa Lin Xueying, General Manager of the organising committee, said the expo was spotlighting cutting-edge technologies designed to make lighting greener, smarter, and more people-centred.

 

 

 

Xueying, who also heads Zhongshan Company Ltd., explained that products on display included solar-powered lamps that store energy for self-use and smart lighting systems with adaptive brightness controls.

 

 

 

She said the expo’s theme, ‘Zero-Carbon Lighting: Supporting Nigeria’s Energy Transition Goals,’ aligned with the country’s urgent development needs and its drive towards a sustainable energy future.

 

 

 

According to her, the programme also features expert forums, keynote sessions, and matchmaking events to help enterprises connect with international opportunities and tackle industry challenges.

 

 

 

“We have over 120 exhibitors from home and abroad. Light symbolises wisdom and hope, brightening spaces and reshaping experiences,” Xueying said.

 

 

 

She added that lighting technology was undergoing a dramatic transformation, from LED advances to the rise of smart systems, expanding its role in modern life.

 

 

 

Xueying also noted that synergy between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope agenda had opened fresh avenues for cooperation.

 

 

 

Ms Yan Yuqing, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China, projected Africa’s lighting market to sustain strong growth, particularly in LED products, smart systems, and solar-powered devices.

 

 

 

She said Nigeria’s economic expansion, accelerating urbanisation, and infrastructure upgrades were driving increased demand for advanced, energy-efficient lighting solutions.

 

 

 

According to her, consumers are shifting from basic lighting functions towards intelligent, customised systems that enhance quality of life.

 

 

 

She added that West Africa’s heavy investment in power grid upgrades and green energy projects was providing solid support for the industry’s expansion.

 

 

 

Yuqing described the expo as a platform for deepening trade relations while encouraging innovation and wider cooperation between Chinese and African enterprises.

 

 

 

“Looking ahead, we must deepen our economic ties while broadening exchanges and mutual learning on global challenges,” she said.

 

 

 

She urged entrepreneurs to harness their expertise to advance sustainable growth and strengthen China-Africa relations.

 

 

 

Mr Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, described the event as a marketplace for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

 

 

 

He said the Lagos government was supporting households and small businesses with solar power, but called on stakeholders to help realise a 24-hour powered economy.

 

 

 

Yi Hon Ehab Sefeen, Chairman of Shinning Star Global Smart Technology Group, commended the organisers for a successful event.

 

 

 

He noted that Chinese investors were not only tapping Nigeria’s energy opportunities but also committed to contributing to the nation’s growth. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NYCN wants National Theatre recognised as IATF 2027 venue
General News

NYCN wants National Theatre recognised as IATF 2027 venue

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called on the Federal Government to designate the renovated National Arts Theatre as official venues for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027 in Lagos.

 

Mr Damilare Kuti, NYCN Lagos Mainland Coordinator, in a statement on Monday in Lagos, said making the National Theatre an IATF 2027 venue would relaunch the renovated edifice into national and international prominence.

 

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is scheduled to hold in Lagos in 2027.

 

He also urged the newly elected Lagos Mainland Council Chairman, Mr Jubril Emilagba, to join Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in supporting the campaign to host the event at the National Theatre.

 

“The National Theatre has all it takes to host the IATF 2027.

 

“We must all rally support for its successful hosting of the continental expo.

 

“Hosting IATF 2027 in the National Theatre would help it regain its lost glory as the premium destination for world-class events,” he said.

 

Also, Deborah Adepoju, NYCN Lagos Mainland Spokesperson, said the council was delighted that Lagos was named host city for the 2027 IATF, organised by AfCFTA and Afreximbank.

 

“Going by this year’s edition, IATF 2027 is expected to attract over 120,000 visitors to Nigeria and generate more than US$50 billion in trade deals.

 

“Over 2,100 exhibitors and 20 Heads of State are also expected, underscoring the growing importance of intra-African trade and the creative industries in driving economic growth.

 

“We believe this would not only boost the economy of Lagos, but also create thousands of temporary and permanent jobs for our teeming youths, as many foreign companies would open shops in Lagos afterwards,” Adepoju said.

 

Nigeria was named host country for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, with Lagos as the host city.

 

The announcement was made during the 2025 edition, which ended last week in Algiers, Algeria.

 

Now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, the National Theatre has remained largely unused after the completion of its renovation by the Bankers’ Committee since Aug. 28, 2024.

 

The renovation covered several facilities, including the 4,000-seater main bowl, a 3,000-seater banquet hall, exhibition halls, cinemas and VIP lounges.

 

It also include actors’ changing rooms, an industrial kitchen, over 300 toilet cubicles, a clinic, fire station, lobbies, and extensive roof repairs.

 

External works included refurbishment of the three entrance gatehouses, construction of four themed landscapes, a 250-capacity car park block, the ring road, and installation of street lighting and CCTV cameras.

 

The facility is also complemented by the National Theatre Blue Line train station.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Arts Theatre was originally constructed by the military regime of Gen. Yakubu Gowon and completed in 1976 under the Olusegun Obasanjo administration.

 

Its completion coincided with Nigeria’s hosting of the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77) in January 1977.

 

Since its inception in 2018, the IATF has rotated among Africa’s major economies. Egypt hosted the inaugural edition in Cairo, followed by South Africa in Durban in 2021.

 

Cairo hosted again in 2023, while Algiers staged the fourth edition in 2025.

 

Nigeria will become the fourth country, and the first in West Africa, to host the fair, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s trade and investment ambitions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Expert seeks stakeholder support to curb train derailments
General News

Expert seeks stakeholder support to curb train derailments

 

 

 

 

 

By Vivian Emoni

 

Prof. Umar Katsayal, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address train derailments and other challenges in Nigeria’s railway system.

 

Katsayal made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

He said such collaboration would enhance the sector and significantly contribute to economic growth across the country.

 

According to him, train derailments can be tackled through regular maintenance of tracks, trains, and related equipment.

 

He emphasised the need for strict safety procedures and the provision of well-trained operators and maintenance staff.

 

“Government cannot do the work alone.

 

“Various stakeholders in the transportation sector must support the government in addressing train derailments and other systemic issues,” Katsayal said.

 

He noted that collaboration with both local and international partners was crucial for implementing sustainable measures in the railway sector.

 

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the benefits of rail transportation, noting that an efficient railway system provided a fast, reliable, and cost-effective mode of transport for both passengers and freight.

 

He pointed out that one of the key objectives of the 2nd Abuja International Railway Conference and Exhibition was to bring together stakeholders to share ideas and knowledge that would advance the railway system.

 

Strengthening the rail sector, he said, would promote economic development by facilitating trade, commerce, tourism, and job creation in various areas such as operations, maintenance, and construction.

 

“Railways are also relatively environmentally friendly, producing lower greenhouse gas emissions per ton of freight or per passenger compared to road transport,” Katsayal said.

 

He called on all stakeholders, including federal and state governments, international experts, and Nigerians at large, to support and strengthen the railway system for the nation’s benefit.

 

On project implementation, Katsayal urged the government to ensure proper execution of infrastructure projects in the sector.

 

He stressed the importance of feasibility studies, route planning, and careful design.

 

He added that infrastructure must be consistently monitored by technical experts to ensure proper maintenance and prevent derailments or technical issues.

 

“Effective implementation requires collaboration among government agencies, private sector entities, and other relevant stakeholders,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

ICSAN urges governance professionals to embrace AI
General News

ICSAN urges governance professionals to embrace AI

 

 

By Adebola Adegoke

 

The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has stressed the need for governance professionals to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) in addressing emerging global challenges.

 

 

 

Mr Francis Olawale, Vice President of ICSAN, made this known on Monday at a news conference in Lagos to announce the institute’s forthcoming annual conference.

 

 

 

Olawale said AI was rapidly transforming corporate governance by reshaping decision-making, accountability, and risk management.

 

 

 

He emphasised that corporate governance now extends beyond compliance and reporting, requiring integration of strategy, innovation, and technology.

 

 

 

He cautioned that governance professionals must balance technology use with ethics, legality, and transparency.

 

 

 

“We should not feel threatened by AI. We only need to constantly upscale ourselves, understand its limits, and integrate it effectively,” he said.

 

 

 

Olawale explained that ICSAN’s 49th Annual Conference would examine the future of governance in a world defined by technological disruptions.

 

 

 

The conference will hold on Sept. 18 and Sept. 19 with the theme: “Reimagining Governance: Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Excellence”.

 

 

 

“One of the sub-themes, Balancing AI with Ethics and Accountability, will address legal and ethical concerns surrounding AI in governance,” he added.

 

 

 

He noted that participants would gain practical insights to overcome disruption fears and embrace innovation with confidence.

 

 

 

“Information is power. Knowledge is power. Attendees will leave better equipped to handle innovations and disruptions,” he said.

 

 

 

He explained that the conference would attract legal experts, regulators, company secretaries, and academics from within and outside Nigeria.

 

 

 

The event will be chaired by Mr Udo Udoma, Board Chairman of Seplat Energy, and Mr Emmanuel Ikazoboh, Chairman of Dangote Cement.

 

 

 

Olawale described the conference as an “intellectual harvest” expected to generate actionable recommendations for both public and private sectors.

 

 

 

He said communiques from the gathering would be published and shared with government agencies to guide policy formulation.

 

 

 

He added that the conference would feature awards, including Chartered Secretary of the Year, Corporate Governance Excellence Award, and Media Award.

 

 

 

Olawale assured that ICSAN remained committed to strengthening professionals’ confidence and competence in navigating disruptive technologies.

 

 

 

Beyond the annual event, he said ICSAN is dedicated to capacity building, advocacy, and awareness creation across various economic sectors.

 

 

 

He stressed that professional bodies must objectively critique government policies while supporting positive reforms.

 

 

 

“We want people to become more knowledgeable, confident, and open to innovation,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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