NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Professor, who sells vegetables, advises youths on small businesses
Business

Professor, who sells vegetables, advises youths on small businesses

190 total views today

By Zubairu Idris

Prof. Nasir Hassan-Wagini of Biology Department, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU), Katsina, who produces and sells vegetables, has advised students and youths to key into small businesses rather than wait for white-collar jobs.

 

Hassan-Wagini gave the advice on Monday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at a weekly market in Batsari, Katsina state, where he sells the produce.

 

The professor said he was born by a farmer, grew up as a farmer, and went into produce businesses at an early stage of life.

 

He said that his story became popular after he was promoted to the rank of professor.

 

“My call to the NCE, Diploma and degree graduates is that they should feel free and start small businesses in their communities instead of staying idle.

 

“I’m a professor of plant resources at UMYU, I want youths and students to look at me, know my rank and position, and I still engage in small business of this nature.

 

“That may clear their minds because they feel shame and too big to go into such type of small businesses.

 

“What matters is what you are contributing to the society. So, stop staying at home doing nothing when you did not get job, start with small businesses like this one.

 

“Our youths should stop going to other places looking for job, they should get into farming and other small businesses to become self-reliant.

 

“Self-reliance is key to successful life. Try to merge your education with vocational skills for your own good,” he said.

 

One of his neighbours in the market, Malam Uzairu, said that they enjoy staying with the professor in the market.

 

He described the professor as trustworthy, humble and kind in his interaction with people.

 

“We respect him and he respect us. In fact, he is a nice person who knows how to relate with all categories of people,” he said.

 

NAN reports that the price of a 100 kg bag of onion in the market cost N65,000 and above depending on its quality.

 

A 100 kg bag of dried red pepper sells at N115,000 and above, 100 kg bag of dried tomatoes, N60,000 and above, while 50 kg bag of fresh hot pepper, N100,000 and above.

 

NAN was told that in the next few months, farmers would start harvesting fresh tomatoes, red pepper, onions, among others.

 

NAN also reports that security in the area has improved, and has allowed for business activities to thrive.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

NAHCON boss lauds media reportage on 2025 Hajj operation 
General News

NAHCON boss lauds media reportage on 2025 Hajj operation 

163 total views today

By Deji Abdulwahab

Prof. Abdullahi Usman, the Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has described the media reportage on the just concluded Hajj operation as contributions toward defending and projecting positive image of Islam.

Usman said this at a farewell dinner organised for the NAHCON National Media Team in Makkah on Sunday.

He said that the dinner was organised to appreciate and celebrate the media representatives who added value to the success of the 2025 Hajj operation.

“We gather here to congratulate ourselves, to celebrate our success in this Hajj operation. We thank almighty Allah and thank you all.

“I have no word in my mind than to express what I feel about your positive cooperation.

“You are our eyes, you are the only way to the world to know and see what we are doing here. Actually, you have done your own.We thank you and thank almighty Allah for making it possible for us to work together,” he said.

In his remarks, Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS), said that the media performance towards the 2025 Hajj operation was commendable.

According to Yagawal, this year is different from the previous years in terms of media services.

“You know, your assignment is very dangerous. You can change black to white and white to black if you like, with your tongue and pen.

“This year, Alhamdulillah, your performance to NAHCON has been very positive. You worked tirelessly to improve our distorted image for the better,” he said.

The NAHCON commissioner recalled that last year, the commission got little positive reportage on the Hajj operation, describing this year’s media services as commendable.

“Last year, we suffered a lot, but this year, inshallah, with what we have seen, your coverage right from Medina, Mashair, back to Makkah, all your reports to the National Hajj Commission is positive,” he said.

Prince Anofi Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing, thanked the media for sharing the commission’s success stories on the 2025 Hajj operations.

Elegushi said, “I want to use this medium to say a big appreciation to the media team for the wonderful job they have done and they are still doing because the job is not limited to here in Saudi Arabia.

“We believe in you, that you will continue to report the positive side of us because all what you have done is very positive,” he said.

The NAHCON’s Commissioner of Finance, Malam Aliyu Abdulrasaq, also lauded the objectivity in the media reportage.

”I want to say you do not just own the pen, but you possess the truth.

“Objectivity in your reportage can go a long way to help this nation. The misconception that we are facing today is because of those that want to mislead the public.

“With your courage in reporting the truth, I believe we will be very far apart from those that want to tarnish the image of Nigeria.

“I want to say again that we are happy for the job well done,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Go into agro-business for sustainable employment- Gotomo
Food Security

Go into agro-business for sustainable employment- Gotomo

508 total views today

By Ahmed Dantala

Mr Abubakar Gotomo, founder of Gotomo Farms and Wildlife Services, has urged the youths to explore agro-business as a pathway to sustainable employment.

 

Gotomo made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Diko, Niger on Sunday.

 

NAN reports that agriculture offers a significant pathway to sustainable employment in Nigeria, particularly when focusing on sustainable farming practices.

 

These practices, such as crop rotation, agro-forestry, and efficient water management, can boost yields, reduce costs, and improve resilience to climate change.

 

“People should aspire to come into agriculture to pursue such a business that they can be rich within the shortest possible time. When you pursue it, you do it according to the best practice, be rest assure you will make your money.

 

“Here at Gotomo farm, we have about 36 concrete fish ponds, we have over 10 earthen farms for fish production. But I’m just giving a simple example of one pond farm which has the capacity to store 2,500 catfish.

 

‘’2,500 catfish, if well fed, within 100 to 120 days, they can grow to the table size. Three of them can give you one kg, averagely, If you are lucky, two can give you one kg, but three can give you one kg.

 

‘’At a conservative price now, a kg can give you 2,000. Now imagine, as a graduate, you have one pond farm of 2,500 catfish. You manage it in 120 days; you’d be rest assured of going with a profit of two million Naira.’’

 

He added that the agriculture sector remains a veritable means of opportunity, saying the value chain is even more significant.

 

‘’Even if it’s in the service of input, providing input, selling, marketing, transportation, actively performing on the farm. So, I encourage our graduates, don’t wait. You have no time to wait.

 

‘’You are a fresh graduate from the NYSC, come, try to get that orientation. As soon as you finish your NYSC, please go to the farm, the job is there waiting for you.’’

 

Gotomo said that the search for economic independence was his drive and motivation to go into agri-business.

 

“I left the civil service very early because I have been naturally an independent person. And at the civil service I realised that I have a lot of restrictions and limitations and I can’t achieve my aspirations as a civil servant.

 

“With the civil service I discovered that promotion is your limit, you can’t go beyond promotion. Your competency, your experience, your expertise is not enough for you to secure any job.

 

‘’You have still to go and start lobbying here and there. I feel, no, I have to look for something more independent. With food production, people must eat and you have access to market when you produce, people must buy.

 

‘’The fact that you graduate does not mean that you should go and be a servant to anybody. That education should serve as a light that will help you to pursue any venture, so I went into adventure,’’ he said.

 

Gotomo said that contamination of the soil, chemical application, post-harvest management, application of preservatives and pesticides, are factors affecting the quality and health of the food.

 

He said that the Gotomo farm uses organic principles in order to give out products that are healthy enough and safe for human consumption.

 

“We are trying to train people, all the people working here with us, then those coming in to get training, we give them those principles. And with that, gradually, we can scale our food system and ensure food security.

 

“Food security is not just about the availability of food alone. It is also about the quality of that food,’’ he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Young farmers urge local food production, livestock expansion
Food Security

Young farmers urge local food production, livestock expansion

226 total views today

By Daniel Obaje

Young agriculturists in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, have called on the Federal Government to increase support for local food producers to boost livestock farming and reduce dependence on imported animal products.

 

The farmers made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at their integrated livestock and crop farm in Mararaba, as part of a field report on sustainable agriculture and youth participation.

 

Mr Ogese Samuel, an economist and co-manager of the farm, said that the project was set up to promote food security, create employment and demonstrate the profitability of agriculture among young people in Nigeria.

 

“We rear catfish, broilers, local chickens, turkey, rabbit, snail, earthworm and pigs. All are sold locally and the business is very profitable.

 

“Our goal is to support the national food system and create jobs. But we need funds to expand. With the population rising, the demand for protein is increasing daily.”

 

He noted that in spite of the challenges of manpower and capital, the farm continues to grow.

 

He highlighted the need for government-backed loans, youth-targeted grants and access to reliable markets to scale up their impact.

 

“Agriculture has inelastic demand; people must eat every day. What we need is support to grow our capacity”

 

He also emphasised the importance of food safety, saying the farm maintains strict hygiene standards and collaborates with Nasarawa State inspection teams to ensure compliance with health regulations.

 

Miss Maranata Fadawa, a director in the farm, encouraged young Nigerians to embrace agriculture rather than turning to crime or fraud.

 

“Farming is hard work but comes with dignity and reward. We need to stop being lazy and do what will bring us honest income”

 

The experts urged the government and development partners to invest more in training and mentorship programmes that can expose young people to manage modern farming techniques.

 

They added that with the right support, agriculture can become a key driver of youth employment and national economic growth.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Organic food: Farmers seek FG support on markets, chemical use
Food Security

Organic food: Farmers seek FG support on markets, chemical use

217 total views today

By Daniel Obaje

Experts in the agriculture sector have urged the Federal Government to prioritise organic farming and reduce reliance on hazardous agrochemicals, which threatens public health and limit Nigeria’s access to international markets.

 

They made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Karshi, Abuja during a visit to organic farms as part of a field report on sustainable agricultural practices.

 

Mr Adams Peter, Managing Director of Amadam’s Organic Agricultural Company, said Nigeria’s overdependence on chemical-based farming has become a major barrier to global trade.

 

“Our food exports are being rejected in many countries because they are not organic and are contaminated by chemicals,”

 

He explained that most farmers lack proper training on the safe use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers which leads to misuse and unsafe residue levels in food.

 

Peter, whose company has been operating since 2001, said his organisation is focused on organic farming because of its multiple benefits to health, environment and the economy.

 

“Organic agriculture is not only safer for consumers; it also nourishes the soil and protects the ecosystem.

 

“It creates employment, especially for Nigerians and can improve household income.”

 

He noted that in spite of growing awareness about food safety, organic food remains largely inaccessible in many urban centres.

 

“We hardly find organic vegetables or foodstuff in Abuja markets, that is why we are working with our network to set up dedicated organic food markets across the FCT.

 

“Government support for organic farming is still very low. If we’re serious about improving food quality and boosting exports, we must invest in organic agriculture,” he said.

 

Also speaking, Mr Donald Ikenna, Lead Coordinator of the Alliance for Action on Pesticide in Nigeria, warned about the growing use of highly hazardous chemicals in the country’s food production system.

 

“More than 40 per cent of the chemicals used by farmers in Nigeria are classified as highly hazardous, this puts both farmers and consumers at serious risk.”

 

Ikenna said the widespread use of such chemicals has been linked to an increase in cancer, kidney failure and other chronic diseases.

 

“People are falling ill from what they eat and the economy is also suffering as we lose billions to rejected food exports.”

 

He stressed the need for a national shift to safer and science-backed alternatives, including biopesticides, organic fertilizers and agroecological practices.

 

He called on state governments and lawmakers to ensure constituency projects support organic farming initiatives at the grassroots.

 

“We have the local capacity to produce organic farm inputs in Nigeria. What we need is investment, training and strong political will.

 

“We must stop pumping money into harmful chemicals and start building systems that promote health, sustainability and long-term food security.”

 

NAN reports that organic and agroecological farming is gaining momentum globally as a safer, climate-friendly alternative to conventional agricultural practices.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigerians in South Africa offer medical services in host community
Foreign

Nigerians in South Africa offer medical services in host community

198 total views today

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has conducted a free medical outreach in Witbank, one of its host communities in that country.

 

A statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja by the union’s National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, said the exercise held on Saturday.

 

It further said that more than 60 residents of Witbank, including children and the elderly, were provided essential healthcare services.

 

Led by the NUSA ward executives in Witbank headed by Agha Nnachi, the outreach offered general consultations, blood pressure and sugar level checks, free selected medications, health education, counseling and nutritional advice.

 

The statement said the event, which lasted for more than five hours, was on a walk-in basis with no pre-registration, allowing for maximum accessibility.

 

 

Patients with serious medical conditions, it said, received professional guidance and were provided with notes for further specialised tests.

 

The statement said Maxwell Nnamdi, a distinguished member of the NUSA Board of Trustees also supported the executives during the exercise.

 

” The medical team was expertly led by Dr Omotunde Erejuwa, a respected family physician, with valuable support from nurses Glender Sithole and Gugulethu Dlamini,” the statement quoted Nnachi as saying.

 

“Access to quality healthcare remains a challenge for many communities.

 

“Our goal was to bridge this gap by bringing medical services directly to the people, regardless of their nationality or background,” Nnachi added.

 

Reacting to the exercise, the statement quoted the President General of NUSA, Smart Nwobi, as expressing appreciation to the ward executives.

 

“The exemplary work demonstrated by the NUSA Witbank Ward is a testament to our organisation’s commitment to social responsibility.

 

” I encourage other NUSA wards across South Africa to emulate this commendable model of community service,” he said.

 

The statement also emphasised the significance of the outreach, saying it exemplified the benevolent nature of the Nigerian people.

 

It reiterated the dedication of NUSA to fostering positive relations within its host communities

 

” NUSA remains committed to initiatives that promote wellbeing and strengthen community bonds,” the statement said.

 

It stressed that the successful implementation of the outreach highlighted NUSA’s ongoing efforts to make meaningful contributions to South African society.

 

The statement also said the outreach underscored the union’s commitment to promoting health awareness and access to medical care.

 

NAN reports that the NUSA is dedicated to promoting the welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa.

 

It also fosters positive relationships with local communities through various social responsibility initiatives.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Foundation calls for action against sexual violence
General News

Foundation calls for action against sexual violence

140 total views today

By Rita Iliya

Global Peace Foundation of Nigeria (GPFN) says sexual violence in conflict is a deliberate and destructive weapon which calls for collective action to end it.

 

Rev. John Hayab, Country Director, GPFN, made the call on Saturday in Lapai Local Government Area of Niger during during the  International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that GPFN is a non-profit organisation focused on building peace and social cohesion in Nigeria.

 

Hayab, represented by Mr Rimpyen Danjuma, GPFN Youth and Education Development Officer, said there was no justification, either cultural, political or religious for sexual violence in conflict situations.

 

“Let us commit and act to build a society where conflict does not mean cruelty and where every person can live free from fear, violence and being full of dignity.

 

“Sexual violence affects women, girls, men, boys and infants, leaving long lasting scars that often go unspoken.

 

“The trauma caused by this violence frequently remains unaddressed, particularly in rural areas.

 

“Young people should stand up, speak out and reject any culture that excuses violence. The vision of GPFN is “one family under God”.

 

“Parents should instill respect over dominance, and policy makers should prioritise survivors through laws and services.

 

“Nigerians should unite and say “enough is enough” to violence against women and girls,” he said.

 

Also, Prof. Juliana Dauda, Executive Director, Gender Advocacy and Development Initiative, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, emphasised the need to expand educational opportunities to mitigate communal conflict and general based violence in rural communities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

Association calls for security reform, coordinated action
General News

Association calls for security reform, coordinated action

133 total views today

By Ebere Agozie

The United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN), Abuja Branch, has called for a comprehensive security reform and coordinated action to curb the escalating insecurity across the nation.

 

Dr Desmond Okocha, Coordinator of UNAN, Abuja Branch, who made the call on Saturday in Abuja, said the association was deeply worried by the escalating insecurity across the country.

 

“We urgently call on President Bola Tinubu to undertake a comprehensive overhaul and total rejig of Nigeria’s security architecture, to squarely address this crisis.

 

“We are greatly saddened by the recent massacre in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where innocent Nigerians, including women, children and the elderly were brutally killed.

 

“Such inhumane acts represent not only a grave violation of human rights but also a direct assault on our shared humanity and national unity.”

 

Okocha condemned the heinous violence, terrorism and banditry plaguing the nation, while extending UNAN’s sincere condolences to the government and people of Benue.

 

“These recurring attacks erode public trust, weaken the rule of law, and endanger the socio-economic fabric of our society.

 

“We acknowledge and commend President Tinubu, for his condolence visit to Benue and for issuing firm orders to security agencies.

 

“However, we urge that these words be swiftly translated into measurable and sustained action. Haphazard responses are no longer sufficient,” Okocha said.

 

He, therefore, called on the governments of Benue, Plateau and Nasarawa states to establish a joint security task force and maintain consistent patrols around identified flashpoints.

 

“Most importantly, we urge the federal government to go beyond providing relief materials for the victims and ensure full compensation for their losses, making deliberate efforts to address the root causes of the crises.

 

“As an affiliate of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), UNA-Nigeria, Abuja Branch, stands committed to the principles of peace, justice and human dignity.

 

“We appeal to all tiers of government, civil society and the international community to prioritise the protection of civilians and work together to address the root causes of insecurity, poverty, marginalisation and impunity.

 

“Nigeria cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear. It is time to act with urgency, resolve and compassion.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

Army tackles trauma, drug abuse among personnel
Defence/Security

Army tackles trauma, drug abuse among personnel

159 total views today

By Rita Iliya

The Nigerian Army is working to address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and drug abuse among its personnel, particularly those deployed in combat.

 

The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who was a special guest of honour, disclosed this at a combined seminar on Intensifying Warrior Ethos, PTSD and Drug Abuse in Kontagora.

 

The News Agency (NAN) reports that the seminar titled: “From Trauma to Triumph: Building Combat Ready Warriors in the Nigerian Army, was organised for officers of Nigerian army Corps of Artillery and Nigerian Army Training Center.

 

Oluyede, represented by Maj.-Gen. John Sokoya, Commander, the Nigerian Army Training Centre, Kontagora, emphasised the importance of warrior ethos in the army, particularly in the face of contemporary security challenges.

 

“The warrior ethos embodies a deep sense of commitment, an intangible force that inspires soldiers to give their best in any situation.

 

“Today, warrior ethos is increasingly threatened by societal pressure and the growing trend of illicit use of drugs among army personnel,” he said.

 

He said the seminar aligned with his command philosophy which aimed to transform Nigerian army into a well motivated and combat ready force.

 

The COAS added that the seminar aimed to create awareness on the devastating effects of drug abuse and highlight ways to identify and manage PTSD

 

He said the seminar would present opportunity for troops to strengthen their inherent warrior ethos, enhance cohesiveness in military operations and promote the core values of discipline, loyalty and selfless service.

 

He reiterated the army’s commitment to providing effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism, and combat readiness to better secure the territorial integrity of the nation.

 

Earlier in his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Olusegin Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, said the seminar was designed to enhance the leadership capacity of senior and middle cadre officers and to instill warrior ethos among troops.

 

Abai, represented by Maj.-Gen. Collins Adetoba, the Deputy Chief of Transformation and Innovation, added that the workshop is aimed at creating awareness on the devastating effects of drug abuse.

 

“It will also highlight ways to identify and manage PTSD enhancing combat readiness,” he said.

 

NAN reports that presentations were made on Intensifying Warrior Ethos in the Nigerian Army by retired Maj. Gen. Charles Ofoche and Combat Stress Management and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in the Nigerian Army by retired Lt. Col. Susan Dibal.

 

Also, Ibrahim Chikaji, the Area Commander of the NDLEA Niger Command, presented a lecture on Drug and Substance Abuse: Impact on Operational Effectiveness of the Nigerian Army. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Eat what you farm for improved health – Expert
Agriculture

Eat what you farm for improved health – Expert

289 total views today

By Ebere Agozie

Dr Zainab Imam, Consultant Adult and Perinatal Psychiatrist and Division Chief of Women’s Mental Health at Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar has urged Nigerians to farm what they eat for improved health benefit.

 

Imam, who is also the CEO of JAMS Organic Farms and Kitchens, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Friday.

 

She urged Nigerians to consider the health of their family members by farming what they eat, even if it means having a small backyard farm.

 

She added that studies have shown that exposure to various environmental pollutants, such as pesticides, is associated with increasing prevalence of cases of cancer and solid tumours.

 

She stressed that farming what you eat is a win-win situation as it would minimise the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, which can contaminate human health and the environment.

 

“Well, the reason I chose farming is that farming is something I’ve always enjoyed doing. Anywhere I’ve lived, anybody that knows me would always associate Zainab with farming.

 

“My house, even in Qatar, I have my backyard garden where I plant everything. When I was here in Nigeria, before I left the country, I used to raise chickens in my house here in Abuja.

 

“I have nothing less than 1000 heads of corn and other vegetables around. So it’s something I feel very passionate about. I like to eat clean food.’’

 

She said that most chemicals used by farmers are killing Nigerians daily, and slowly.

 

Imam said that even when people try to use herbs to cure sicknesses they still run into trouble because those herbs are also contaminated.

 

“I’m diabetic, so I’m also passionate about what I put in my mouth and make sure that whatever I’m eating will not add to my chronic illness.

 

“The other thing is that when I’m on the farm, it gives me room to move and exercise.

 

“So my thought is that if I could do this as part of my retirement, it will exercise into my day, and also hopefully I’ll be able to teach people about sustainable and organic farming.”

 

She said that her plan after retirement is to be able to teach people how to be successful in sustainable organic agriculture practices.

 

“The way our farm works, it’s an integrated farm. We have livestock, we have the large animals, and we’re also hoping to have the small animals.

 

“Currently, we have a few chickens, and we only deal with local chickens. We also have sheep and cows, and we are in the process of starting our fish ponds so that we create additional protein.

 

“We also hope that when the farm is standard we would be able to train other people.

 

“I hope that people can come and visit the farm and see what we’re doing, and be able to adopt such sustainable practices in their own farms as well,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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