News Agency of Nigeria
AU underscores need for adequate investment in Peace Fund – Official
Foreign

AU underscores need for adequate investment in Peace Fund – Official

360 total views today

By Joy Obanya

Amb. Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of African Union Commission (AUC), has underscored the need for adequate investment in Africa Peace Fund to bolster growth.

Adeoye gave the advice in Abuja during his working dinner with the theme: “Africa and global shift in governance, peace and security; a compelling agenda for ECOWAS and AU legacy solutions.”

Adeoye said, “The Peace Fund today by member states is $400 million endowment, but we have only the mandate to spend the interest.

“How much is the interest? $27 million a year, but we need $15 million a month in Somalia, like I said. So the challenges are enormous, we have to use our own resources.

“We have to call on the big powers on our continent, Nigeria, South Africa, Angola, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, among others. These are what we call the tier one countries in the African Union system.

“They pay the largest, but they can do more for the sake of this country because for sure the days are over when we will be looking out to the West or to the North.

“South-South cooperation is what we need that can make it happen.”

He stated there is nothing called the United States of Africa, saying African countries should work closely together to build the continent from the bottom up, not the top bottom.

According to him, no one could impose the United States of Africa from a conference and hope the people would buy it, “it must be built from grassroots”.

“I think this is what the African Union is doing with its regional integration agenda, building with the rest and working closely for the United States of Africa.

“In the long term, it will come naturally. You already have a United States of Europe because you can walk into any part of the 27 European countries without much ado, no immigration.

“Such will not happen overnight. ECOWAS is a leader in that, and we can encourage more of the communities to do so,” he added.

He commended the call for the committee of Ten for the United Nations Security Council Reform, adding we have to keep walking the talk and invest in an inclusive, legitimate UN Security Council.

He promised to partner with civil society more in the peace and security domain, advising it champions not just first generation of political and civil rights, also women, economic, social, and cultural rights.

“Nigeria is the only country in Africa that has continuously served in the African Union Peace and Security Council.

“Nigeria has continued to champion peace and security in all ramifications, the huge view we have for peace and security can be reduced because peacekeeping has become an industry.

“We are not in the peacekeeping mode. We are in the peace enforcement mode, and we have to enforce peace as the Nigerian forces have been fighting against Boko Haram,” he advised.

Earlier, Amb. Musa Nuhu, Nigerian Permanent Representative to ECOWAS. said the gathering had become apt to advance democracy and effective governance, as well as boost human and peace dividends, which is critical for AU Member States.

“What we are bringing forward is African problems, and that implies we have to take ownership and ensure we mobilise peace process.

“We must also provide the political will in order to tackle our challenges,” Nuhu said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi
Nasarawa Speaker preaches tolerance, peaceful coexistence
Religious

Nasarawa Speaker preaches tolerance, peaceful coexistence

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By Awayi Kuje
Dr Danladi Jatau, Speaker, Nasarawa State House of Assembly, has urged Agwada people of the state and other Nigerians to continue to embrace tolerance, love, and peaceful coexistence.
The speaker made the call at an event to mark the 77th founding anniversary of Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), in Agwada, Kokona Local Government Area, on Sunday.
Jatau, who was the Chairman of the occasion, urged adherents of the different faiths to live together in peace and respect others choice of religion.
According to the speaker, love, unity and peace are key enablers of development.
He appreciated stakeholders and church members for their contributions to the development of the church.
“I want to use this opportunity to call on you, let’s love one another, live in unity and peace, irrespective of affiliations.
“Peace is a necessary requirement for the development of any society.
“We should not compromise the peace being enjoyed in this place and the state at large,” he said.
Jatau also called for teamwork and collaboration for the development of the church and the state at large.
“Let’s continue to work together as one family as we are all one in the eye of the Lord” he said.
He called on the members of the church to synergise and collaborate with people of other faiths for the development of the society.
We alone cannot do it. Let us collaborate and synergise with people of other religions for the overall development of the society,” he said.
The speaker called on the people of Agwada and other people of the state to continue to pray and support Gov. Abdullahi Sule’s administration to succeed.
The speaker later donated N1million towards the development of the church.
Other dignitaries, including Dr Emmanuel Akabe, the Deputy Governor, represented by Mr Gabriel Agbashi, Commissioner for Science and Technology; a member of the state assembly, Mr Onarigu Kana (SDP-Udege/Loko), Chief Lawrence Sylvester Ayih 11, the Abaga Toni, spoke at the programme.
They appreciated the members of the church for their zeal and passion for the development of the church.
They also called on the church members and other Nigerians to continue to hold their faith, love one another and be their brothers’ keeper.
In his sermon, Rev. Agbawu Osuonda, a retired ECWA priest, called on Christians and other Nigerians to shun evil acts in order to inherit the kingdom of God.
Osuonda also urged citizens to always do good to others.
He appealed to the dignitaries present to donate generously to the growth and development of the church. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bubari Bolaji
Tinubu celebrates Fashola’s wife on 60th birthday
General News

Tinubu celebrates Fashola’s wife on 60th birthday

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu felicitates Dame Emmanuella Fashola, the former First Lady of Lagos State, on her 60th birthday on April 6.

The wife of Babatunde Fashola (SAN), former Governor of Lagos State, is renowned for her dedication and contributions as an experienced administrator in education management and as a passionate advocate for health and socio-economic issues.

President Tinubu acknowledged her impact on public awareness and sensitisation campaigns on children’s and women’s health.

Tinubu described Fashola as a steadfast pillar of support for her husband, offering tremendous help during his tenure as Lagos Governor and Minister of Works and Housing.

“Dame Fashola is devoted to her family, seeing it as a priority and a haven for growth and development.

“Her marriage, characterised by religious tolerance – she is a devout Christian and her husband a Muslim – is a powerful example of unity and understanding, crucial elements in nation-building,” said Tinubu.

The President expressed his appreciation for Fashola’s enduring contributions to the people of Lagos, specifically her leadership of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

“Her initiatives have notably included the inauguration of recreation centres and support for the screening and treatment of women with breast and cervical cancers,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Women miners want strict compliance to EIA by mining coys
Economy/Business

Women miners want strict compliance to EIA by mining coys

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By Martha Agas

The Women Miners in Nigeria (WMIN) has called for strict compliance to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as mandated by law for mining companies before they begin operations.

The National President of the association, Mrs Janet Adeyemi, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

“Before any mining activity begins, companies should be made to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as mandated by law.

“This will help in addressing environmental pollution in mining communities across states in Nigeria,” Adeyemi said.

She affirmed that though the laws governing the mining sector were extensive, different regions, however, had their unique challenges, particularly in complying with EIA regulations, especially with illegal miners.

“Enforcement is a major problem, especially with illegal miners. Many illegal operators work without any form of coordination.

“The only solution is to continue enforcing regulations and educating people on the devastating effects of illegal mining on the ecosystem.

“The government must ensure strict enforcement and impose heavy sanctions on those caught violating the laws,” she said.

She added that companies should also provide an Environmental Sustainability Governance (ESG) report, which covers broader sustainability factors alongside the EIA report.

According to her, to strengthen environmental protection, Nigeria should adopt a framework similar to America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) to enhance the resilience and safety of its water systems against pollution caused by mining activities.

“We should adopt AWIA certification in Nigeria to promote responsible mining. It is essential because the consequences of mining can be devastating,” Adeyemi stressed. (NAN)(www.nannnew.ng)

Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

3000 Anglican faithful pray for restoration of Nigeria’s glory
Religious

3000 Anglican faithful pray for restoration of Nigeria’s glory

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By Joy Mbachi
No fewer than 3,000 Anglican faithful gathered in a prayer convention to pray for the restoration of Nigerian socioeconomic growth and development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Diocesan Lenten Prayer Convention was the annual prayer convention of Anglican Diocese of Awka.
Declaring the prayer convention open in Awka, the Archbishop of Anglican Archdiocese of Awka, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, said that with fervent prayers Nigeria’s lost glory would be recovered for the citizens to enjoy a robust economy.
Ibezim, who is the convener, urged the faithful never to relent in praying and presenting their needs before the Almighty God because with Him nothing is impossible as well as having positive attitude towards their daily activities.
The archbishop advised the faithful to always pray for their leaders either political, community or religious leaders for divine directions and progress instead of dwelling on criticism of government policies.
In his homily titled: “Total Restoration”, the guest preacher, Anglican Bishop of Diocese of Jalingo, Rt. Rev. Nedison Foreman, said that prayer is key to great hope and restoration of lost economic and social glory.
The bishop said that one can define restoration “as a return or regain of that which was misused or destroyed, through unlawful and unpatriotic attitudes or activities that may have robbed the society or individual of its wealth.”
He assured the faithful that positive attitude change towards public and private living would enhance restoration in all facets of life.
Foreman disclosed that there are four levels of restoration, namely: singular, double, seven-fold and total restoration.
The bishop said that in all levels of restorations that “the secret of true restoration is prayer and true repentance”, adding that “faithful must be strong in the place of prayer.”
The Priest in-charge of the Church of the Pentecost, Awka, Ven. Prince Oranye, encouraged the faithful to support evangelism in order to sustain their spiritual base.
Dr Chioma Ibezim, President of the Mother’s Union and wife of the Archbishop, urged women to be more prayerful to cope with the negative trends in society.
Mrs Ibezim called on mothers to always pray and stand in the gap for the Church, their families and the society at large because “God answers prayers of women.”
Mrs Chioma Okeke, a participant at the prayer convention, said that she looked forward to the yearly prayer convention “as it helps in building her spiritual base and bringing her peace of mind.”
NAN reports that the 2025 Diocesan Lenten Prayer Convention featured testimonies, praise worship and thanksgiving. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Stanley Nwanosike and Benson Iziama
Moghalu wins LP ticket in Anambra
Politics

Moghalu wins LP ticket in Anambra

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By Obinna Unaeze
Chief George Moghalu has emerged as the Labour Party (LP) candidate for the upcoming Anambra Governorship Election scheduled for Nov 8, following the party’s primary election held on Saturday in Awka.Moghalu, a former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), secured 573 votes to defeat his only opponent, Mr John Nwosu, who garnered 19 votes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the primary election was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and electoral observers.

Out of 649 delegates listed, 601 were accredited, with 592 valid votes recorded and five votes declared invalid.

In his acceptance speech, Moghalu extended a hand of fellowship to his opponent, saying that unity among party stakeholders would be crucial to securing victory at the polls.

“I am ready for the challenge ahead. With my experience in public service and politics, I am confident in my capacity to defeat the incumbent, Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA),” he said.

He thanked the LP for conducting a transparent and credible primary and expressed appreciation to the delegates for their support.

“We must now get to work to sell the LP agenda to the people of Anambra. Our goal is to reach every nook and cranny of the state with our message,” he said.

“Anambra is a blessed state with abundant human and natural resources.

“All that is required is visionary leadership to harness these potentials for the benefit of our people.

“I will restore confidence in the party as we move forward in this race.

“The LP remains a formidable force, and we are moving like a train with a clear destination: a better Anambra,” he said.

Mr Bennett Etanabena, the Returning Officer for the primary, praised the peaceful conduct of the election and urged all party members to unite and work toward success at the polls.

“Anambra is a Labour Party stronghold.

“We already have two senators from the state, and statistics suggest that Anambra is on track to play a pivotal role in national leadership by 2027,” he said.

“With this momentum, the state is poised to produce the next governor,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
Maryam Balla inaugurated as first female chair of NICE, Kano Chapter
Gender , Science & Tech

Maryam Balla inaugurated as first female chair of NICE, Kano Chapter

1,029 total views today

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

Mrs Maryam Balla has been inaugurated as the first female Chairperson of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Kano Chapter.

Balla, elected in December 2024 alongside eight other executives, takes over from Mr Murtala Garba to serve a two-year term.

Speaking at the inauguration in Kano, Garba described Balla’s emergence as a significant milestone in the advancement of women in the engineering profession in Nigeria.

He acknowledged her wealth of experience and exceptional leadership qualities, stating they made her an ideal choice for the role.

“I have no doubt that she is equal to the task. I urge her to continue fostering collaboration among members, encourage research, and empower younger engineers to excel.

“I also pledge my full support in the discharge of her duties,” he said.

Garba highlighted his own achievements during his two-year tenure, including the registration of 60 new engineers, organisation of numerous capacity-building workshops, and conducting professional training sessions to enhance the skills of engineers.

“Additionally, the chapter engaged in community outreach initiatives, promoting the role of civil engineering in local development.

“I am proud of the progress we have made as a chapter, and it has been an honour to serve.

“We have made great strides in advancing civil engineering in Kano. I believe our efforts will have a lasting impact,” Garba said.

In his remarks, the National Chairman of NICE, Mr Ajanaku Antoni, commended the Kano Chapter for their dedication and hard work.

Represented by the National Vice Chairman, Prof. Hashim Alhassan, he congratulated the chapter on the successful election of the new executive members and urged them to build on the achievements of their predecessors.

“I congratulate you on the election of the new executives and the achievements made under the leadership of Murtala Garba.

“I urge you to continue working hard and remain steadfast in your commitment to advancing civil engineering in Nigeria,” he said.

In her acceptance speech, Balla pledged to foster innovation, enhance the welfare of civil engineers, and ensure the institution contributed to national infrastructure development.

“I am honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility. My vision is to support the continued advancement of civil engineering in the state,” she said.

Balla emphasised the importance of greater inclusivity and diversity in the engineering field and encouraged young women to consider careers in the profession.

She also stressed the need for inter-agency collaboration to advance the sector and pledged to work with similar professional organisations.

She called on members, stakeholders, and relevant agencies to support her in fulfilling her responsibilities.

The event was attended by senior government officials, engineers, and key stakeholders from the construction and infrastructure sectors. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Martha Agas/Abiemwense Moru

Nigerian Navy provides free medical services to 2,000 residents in Tombia
Health

Nigerian Navy provides free medical services to 2,000 residents in Tombia

349 total views today
By Shedrack Frank
The Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH (NNS SOROH) has provided free medical services to more than 2,000 residents of Tombia Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa.
Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, Commander of NNS SOROH, said during the outreach that the initiative aimed to strengthen cooperation with the host community.
The event, organised under the Central Naval Command, included free medical checkups, consultations, health education, the distribution of insecticide-treated nets, and free medications.

Akinbami highlighted that the outreach would positively impact the community by reducing health challenges and further strengthening the civil-military relationship.

“This medical outreach is part of our corporate social responsibility and follows the CNS strategic directive on civil-military relations,” Akinbami said.

He added that future outreach programmes would be carried out in other local government areas, such as Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw, to ensure a conducive living environment for all.

Mr Exodus Ebi, Chairman of the Community Development Committee in Tombia, lauded the Navy for providing free healthcare services, emphasising that it would greatly address the health needs of the community.

A beneficiary, Titus Ebiwari, also expressed gratitude for the initiative, revealing that he was unaware of his high blood pressure and low sugar levels until the free medical checkup. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal/Abiemwense Moru
W/Africans want indigenous language for ECOWAS, says Pan-Africanist
General News

W/Africans want indigenous language for ECOWAS, says Pan-Africanist

327 total views today

By Mark Longyen

Citizens of West African countries have called on ECOWAS to introduce an indigenous language from one of its member states as an official language, in addition to English, French, and Portuguese.

Bishir Dauda, a Pan-Africanist who is travelling across West Africa to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) from Accra, Ghana.

Dauda said that citizens of the community made the request during his interactions with them at various fora throughout his advocacy and solidarity journey.

NAN reports that ECOWAS, founded on May 28, 1975, to foster subregional economic integration and political unity, will be celebrating its 50th anniversary on May 28.

The activist had, in an interview with NAN before embarking on the marathon trip on April 1, stated that the 50-day journey was his own unique way of celebrating ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.

“In the course of this trip, I have been interacting with many people in different West African countries, seeking their views about ECOWAS.

“One of the key takeaways from my interactive sessions is the community citizens’ clarion call on ECOWAS to make an indigenous West African language one of its official languages.

“Many people I spoke to specifically recommended the Hausa Language, which is spoken widely in West and Central Africa,” he said.

Dauda said that the citizens were aware that ECOWAS had already been transformed from a mere international organisation to an ‘ECOWAS of Peoples’, which should go beyond rhetoric.

He said that the people wanted all ECOWAS policies and programmes to be more directly derived from the people, while ECOWAS should be seen as interacting directly with the grassroots.

“This will help in countering the prevailing notion that ECOWAS is just an intergovernmental organisation representing the interests of the elites in government,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

50th Anniversary: CDS hails retired officers, seeks continuous support
Defence/Security

50th Anniversary: CDS hails retired officers, seeks continuous support

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has commended members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NSA) 17th Regular and Short Service 9 Courses for their contributions to national development.

He gave the commendation during the Golden Jubilee Anniversary Dinner of the Alumni of the courses in Abuja.

He said retired senior officers had diligently served the nation, saying the 50 years anniversary was not just a commemoration of years gone by, but a celebration of the journey, sacrifices, and outstanding contributions of the gallant officers.

According to him, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the indelible impact made by the two distinguished courses on the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation as a whole.

He added that “50 years ago, young men with a common vision and unwavering commitment to duty took an oath to serve their nation with courage, discipline, and professionalism.

“Today, we gather to honour their resilience, patriotism, dedication to serve our nation.

“Members of the 17th regular course and 9-Shot Service Combatant Course did not just serve, but also shaped the course of our armed forces, leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian security architecture.

“Among you are those who rose to the highest echelons of military leadership, service and service skills, as well as other strategic positions.

“Some of you also ventured into public service, politics, business, and other sectors, making meaningful contributions to national development.

“This is a testament to the discipline and excellence instilled in you by the Nigerian Defence Academy.”

The CDS said retired officers were engaged in various military engagements, peacekeeping missions and national security operations that demanded sacrifice.

He said that “some paid the ultimate price, and today we honour their memory with deep reverence, as their bravery and sacrifice shall never be forgotten.”

He added that many of them played pivotal roles in ensuring Nigeria’s territorial integrity, fighting insurgencies and maintaining peace both within and outside the nation’s borders.

“Your leadership, both in uniform or in civil capacities, contributed immensely to the progress of our great nation.

“Today as we celebrate your achievements, we must also acknowledge the responsibilities that come with such esteemed legacy.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces continue to evolve, adapting contemporary security challenges. The foundation you laid serves as guiding light for us who now bear the torch of national defence.

“As we reflect on the past, it is equally important to look toward the future. The Nigerian military is in a dynamic era, confronting asymmetric threats, terrorism, cyber warfare and other evolving security challenges.

“The wisdom and experiences of veterans like you remain invaluable in shaping the strategies that will keep our nation strong.”

He, therefore, encouraged them to continue mentoring and contributing to national discourse on security and defence.

Musa said that the current security challenges in the country was man-made and as such, required concerted efforts of all men to address it.

He reiterated the commitment of the military to put in every effort to ensure that they achieved the mandate of President Bola Tinubu to restore peace and tranquillity to Nigeria.

The Chairman, North-East Development Commission (NEDC), Retired Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa, described the 17RC as one of the best courses of the NDA, being a one-time commandant of the academy.

Tarfa, who was the special guest of honour, congratulated those honoured, commended them “for the journey so far and the successful career in the military.”

The President of the Course, Retired Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Atofarati, said members of the course had successful career in the military and contributed immensely to the development of the Nigerian Armed Forces and nation in general.

Atofarati said the course produced a Chief of Defence Staff in the person of Adm. Ola-Saad Ibrahim and a Chief of Army Staff, in the person of Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahaman Dambazau, while some of them became senators and ambassadors.

He said the association was formed to cater to the welfare of members who are now senior citizens.

He said that the 17 RC and SSC Course 9 trained together, including cadets, adding that 49 out of the 129 had died, appreciating God for sparing their lives to celebrate the golden jubilee. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

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