NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

Group lauds AMAC chairman’s developmental strides

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By Philomina Attah

The Apo Progressives Foundation (APF), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has lauded the leadership and developmental achievements of the Chairman, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Mr Christopher Maikalangu.

The Chairman of the group, Mr Faleye Adebowale, said this on Monday at a news conference in Abuja, noting that the AMAC boss had recorded feats in infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and tourism sectors.

Adebowale, who described Maikalangu as a leader who prioritises people’s welfare and advancement, also lauded AMAC chairman for delivering the dividends of democracy to his people.

According to him, under Maikalangu’s leadership, AMAC has witnessed significant progress, including the completion of numerous access roads such as Waru, Mabuchi Township Road, Jahi community access road, and Lugbe access road.

He emphasised that these achievements transcend political affiliations, urging support for Maikalangu’s second term regardless of party alignment.

“As political observers, a resident NGO, non-partisan, and none profit making Organisation, we are delighted to associate with you and your achievements, especially your successes in providing infrastructural development.

“Additionally, Maikalangu’s administration has constructed 40 solar-powered boreholes, 18 primary health centres, 18 schools, two town halls, and implemented 29 rural electrification projects.

“Maikalangu’s empowerment programmes for youth, women, and farmers further underscore his commitment to holistic development. That is why we are here today to pass vote of confidence in his leadership.

“Indeed, driving through the streets and districts of AMAC, we wish to again appreciate and congratulate you on your unprecedented achievements,” he said.

Adebowale also advised the chairman to focus on youth engagement through sports initiatives to harness local talents.

With over 150 members actively supporting underprivileged communities, the foundation’s chairman reaffirmed its endorsement and support for Maikalangu’s leadership.

Ms Juliet Benson, Vice Chairman of the group, added that Maikalangu’s achievements few years in office were a big relief for the people of AMAC.

She called on women and youths to give him the necessary support to continue his good work for the benefit of people in the area. (NAN)(www.nanannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

General News

Foundation urges FG to regulate orphanages

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By Akpan Glory

Mr Dussah Bala, Founder of Habila Life and Mentorship Foundation (HLMF), has called on the Federal Government to monitor and regulate the establishment of orphanages in the country.

He stated this during a visit to Jesus Kids with Special Needs (J.K.S) Orphanage in Kubwa, Abuja, as part of activities to celebrate his birthday.

Bala stressed the need for government to provide grants and put in place proper laws to regulate orphanage homes in the country.

He said that his foundation will continue to focus on providing support for the less privileged, including those incarcerated, sick, orphans, and widows in the society.

“The reason for coming to an orphanage to celebrate my birthday is because I am an orphan too, and I know how it feels.

“I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the Alice Wanny Development Foundation , Ajebota Foundation for Disadvantages Children, Book Club with love and Lead Joe 1808 Foundation for their contributions to making this day a success,” he said.

The Country Director, Leadership Joe 1808 Foundation, Ike Chinedo in his remarks urged parents to avoid taking harmful substances during pregnancy because it may lead to children with special needs.

“Children are gifts from God, no matter the circumstance do not discard your children, plan before bringing children to this world.

“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to everyone to love one another and continue to preach love,” he said.

The Director of JKS Orphanage Home, Mrs Nifemi Ajideye thanked the guests for their support to the orphanage.

“I thank you all for coming and presenting these wonderful gifts and food to support the J.K.S Orphanage Home.

” I want to use this opportunity to urge the government, NGOs to continue to support the J.K.S Orphanage Home in any way they can, these children need you,” she said.

The director who was represented by the Administrator of JKS, Ms Victoria Adams said the orphanage needs more financial support to cater for the needs of the children.

“We need financial and material support and also enough busses to be able to take the children to school,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Science & Tech

Expert tasks NAESENI on solar panel production 

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By Sylvester Thompson

Dr Balarade Ahmad, a legal practitioner says mandate of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) should be expanded to include engaging in mass production of solar panels and batteries.

Ahmad said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

The core mandate of NASENI includes developing Nigeria’s science, technology, and engineering infrastructure to enable it drive industrialisation and economic growth.

It involves fostering research and development, promoting indigenous technology solutions, and providing the necessary infrastructure for local industries.

The lawyer urged that NASENI should set up large scale solar photovoltaic (PV) factory and be engage in the production of high capacity batteries.

He told NAN that he had earlier advanced this position in his dissertation for the award of Doctor of Philosophy degree in 2024.

He said the research focused discovering the uncertainties solar panel businesses face in the country as well as business models being deployed to navigate them.

He said the importation of solar panels and accessories posed a great challenge to local businesses, adding that NASENI’s involvement in the business could be a game changer.

“Some of these uncertainties are policy, customers’ purchasing power, environmental and exchange rate, as well as security and market uncertainties.

“The fact that solar entrepreneurs in Nigeria can identify these uncertainties means that they can support the penetration of solar as an alternative to Nigerians

“There is a need for expanded research on the additional components of Dynamic Capabilities (DCs), specifically idea screening, uncertainty and risk management,’’ he said.

He urged Solar Photovoltaic Entrepreneurs (SPVEs) deploy Business Model Innovation (BMI), and participate in policy formulation and implementation for the sustainability of their businesses.

The SPVEs are individuals who establish and manage business pertaining to the solar energy industry.

According to him, when solar entrepreneurs deploy the BMI, it will reduce energy cost and make it more affordable to Nigerians.

NAN reports that BMI involves adapting or reinventing how a company creates and delivers value to customers, potentially through new revenue streams, distribution channels, or value propositions.

The process aims to create a more sustainable and competitive business model that better aligns with changing market needs.

Ahmad explained that the business model would allow solar entrepreneurs to push their products and services to energy poverty prone areas.

Ahmad urged government agencies to support SPVEs by providing information and knowledge-sharing platforms and reliable financial support mechanisms. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Economy/Business

U.S. tariffs may be blessing in disguise for Africa— Alake

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By Martha Agas

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has said that the prevailing barrage of tariffs imposed by the United States may be a blessing in disguise for African countries.

Alake stated this during the Fireside Chat session on Foreign Direct Investment, titled ‘The Alchemy of Foreign Direct Investment: Turning Policies into Prosperity for Emerging Global Markets in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Sunday in Abuja, the minister’s remarks were part of his contribution to the discourse on the impact of the tariffs on Africa’s economic climate.

Tomori said the event was part of the the 14th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) Congress.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that US President Donald Trump recently announced new tariffs on nearly all U.S. trading partners.

“The barrage of tariffs imposed carries wide-ranging implications for the global economy, U.S. trade relationships, and developing nations, including those in Africa,” he said.

The media aide also noted that Alake called on African countries to adopt an introspective approach by looking inward and adjusting their domestic policies to focus more on intra-African trade, with less dependence on external forces.

Tomori noted that the minister stressed the need need for African countries to organise economic imperatives to ensure a balance of trade and strengthen intra African trade among countries.

The minister highlighted the persistent challenge faced by African countries, where rare mineral resources were exported without any value addition.

According to him, the old ‘pit-to-port’ model, where resources are extracted and sent out of the continent can no longer be allowed to continue.

“Interested investors, who wish to come into Africa are welcome to set up their factories in the continent, add value to our mineral resources and create jobs here, rather than just shipping our wealth out of our shores”, he stated.

The minister said that his stance on protecting Africa’s mineral wealth has been adopted by many African countries, particularly mineral-producing nations, where he served as the pioneering chairman of the African Minerals Strategic Group (AMSG).

He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s policy on mineral sector development remained strictly focused on value addition and boosting the local economy through job creation.

NAN reports that the Annual AIM, was aimed at promoting international investment, support sustainable economic growth, encourage innovation, and foster partnerships between investors, governments, and businesses.

The AIM also serves as a platform for discussing investment trends in sectors such as digital economy, future finance, and sustainable development.

The 14th edition held from April 7 to 9 is with the theme ‘Mapping the Future of Global Investment: The New Wave of a Globalised Investment Landscape – Towards a New Balanced World Structure’.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

Sports

CAA appoints Nigerian referee for U-18/20 championships in Algeria

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By Emmanuel Afonne

The Confederation of Africa Athletics (CAA) has appointed Omatseye Nesiama, a former Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), as a referee for the 3rd Africa U18/U20 combined championships slated for Oran, Algeria.

The appointment was conveyed in a letter obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and signed by the Director-General of the CAA, Lamine Faty.

The letter also stated that the championships would hold from July 14 to July 18.

When contacted to know how he felt about his appointment, the retired Navy Commodore said he was honoured to be recognised to serve by the CAA and WA through their numerous invitations.

“I am grateful to God for the grace and ability to have represented the country well in all of my outings thus far.

“Most importantly, I am grateful to Nigerians who have continued to encourage me to deliver excellently in my tasks; this one will not be different by God’s grace.”

NAN reports that Nesiama is the first and only Nigerian resident the WA has licensed as an Athletes’ Representative given the responsibility to manage any of the top elite athletes of the World.

Nesiama, who is currently representing the Coaches and Technical officials on the board of the AFN, is a well-respected and experienced International technical official, certified by the World Athletics.

He is also a certified World Athletics lecturer and was nominated to train the Ghanaian Technical officials ahead of the last African Games held in Accra. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Sports

Nigeria lost a true icon in Chukwu—– NSC D-G 

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has described the late Christian Chukwu as a true icon and national hero who contributed immensely to the growth of Nigerian football.

Olopade stated this in a condolence message on Saturday in Abuja following the passing of the legendary former Super Eagles captain and coach.

The NSC D-G extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Chukwu and the entire Nigerian football community.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Chukwu, 74, died on Saturday after a period of illness.

He was one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures, fondly called ‘Chairman’, he captained Nigeria’s national team to its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980, defeating Algeria 3–0 in the final at the National Stadium in Lagos.

He later served as head coach of the Super Eagles and remained a towering figure in Nigerian football.

Olopade who expressed shock at his demise, described him as a leader of men.

“Chukwu is a true icon, a leader of men, and a national hero whose contributions to the growth of Nigerian football will never be forgotten.

“He was not just a footballer; he was a symbol of pride, discipline, and excellence.

“His leadership on and off the field inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. The nation mourns the loss of a giant, Olopade said.

The former Ogun State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development said the NSC will continue to pay tribute to the Enugu-born icon whose influence remain etched in the annals of African football history.

NAN reports that Chukwu began his football journey with Enugu Rangers, leading the club to domestic dominance and continental success, including the now-defunct African Cup Winners Cup in 1977.

He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s golden football era, assisting Dutch tactician Clemens Westerhof when the Super Eagles won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for their first FIFA World Cup.

As head coach, he guided the team to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Sports

NSF: NSC begins media accreditation for Gateway Games

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The National Sports Commission (NSC), has announced the opening of media accreditations for the coverage of the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged: ‘Gateway Games’ in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highly anticipated Games will be held from May 16 to May 30.

Mrs Kehinde Ajayi, Director Information, NSC, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

She advised interested media practitioners outside Ogun to send in their full names, medium, telephone number, email address and a passport photograph to Gatewaygames2024media@gmail.com

She said that host journalists in Ogun have a separate accreditation process which has been duly communicated.

“The Media Accreditation for the Gateway Games has officially opened from Saturday April 12th and will officially close on April 19th.

“While the National Sports Commission through the Media sub committee for the Games will love to accommodate every applicant for Accreditation.

“It is however very important to inform all intending applicants that registration for Accreditation does not automatically guarantee approval of such Application,” she said.

NAN reports that as preparations intensify for the games, the NSC on Thursday inaugurated 19 sub-committees to ensure the successful hosting of the event.

The festival which is a celebration of Nigeria’s rich sports and cultural heritage is expected to host about 15, 000 athletes and officials in 33 sporting events.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Yakubu Uba

Education

Tinubu tasks NOUN on technology advancement

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By Emmanuel Afonne

President Bola Tinubu has assured the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) of his government’s support to ensure the advancement of its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) structure.

Tinubu gave the assurance on Saturday in Abuja at the 14th convocation of the university, where the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas and Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President, African Development Bank (AfDB), were conferred with honorary doctorate degrees.

While Abbas was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree of Doctor of Business Administrator, Adesina bagged an honorary doctorate degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

The President who was represented by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, through Hajia, Rakiya Gambo, Director, Tertiary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, said NOUN would be strongly supported through Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TetFund).

Tinubu said there was the need to advance technology in tertiary institutions to guarantee a robust learning especially for the ODL.

“The Federal Government under my leadership is committed to supporting education by leveraging information technology to enhance learning.

“Through strategic intervention, we are ensuring that education remains the key to our technological development.

“As such, the Federal Government through TetFund, is financing the fibre optic infrastructure at NOUN to provide seasless Internet access to substantial number of students at study centres across the geo-political zones of the country.

“This initiative harnesses the power of technology to improve access to education as faster as possible.

“This university has benefitted immensely from various government intervention provided through TetFund and we remain committed to ensuring that possible financial resources are consistently provided for the advancement of education through ODL in Nigeria,” Tinubu said.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olufemi Peters, said NOUN had continued to receive requests for the establishment of additional study centres from prominent individuals, community leaders and associations.

This, he said was a testament of the essential role the educational institution had played in serving the nation.

“To meet the demand of our expanding reach, we leverage cutting-edger Information and Communication Technology to enhance instructional delivery and improve learning outcomes.

“Our global learning culture is further enriched through innovative collaborations and partnerships with institutions such as the University of South Africa, the Open University, UK, the Open University of Tanzania and so on,” he said.

According to Peters, the 14th convocation was another opportunity for NOUN to celebrate the academic achievements of its students, out of which 17,420 graduated, comprising of 10,967 undergraduates and 6,413 postgraduate students.

The Pro-Chancellor of the University, Malam Isa Yuguda, had earlier urged the Federal Government to incorporate NOUN graduates into its National Youth Service Corps programme, to encourage more youths to enrol in the ODL structure.

Yuguda also appealed to the government to allow the admission of NOUN Law graduates into the Law School, to give room for more student to enrolment into the University Law Faculty. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Defence/Security

Fake native doctors deceiving Anambra youths into crime – Metchie

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

Dr John Metchie, Traditional Prime Minister, Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), says that fake native doctors in the state have deceived many youths into various heinous crimes.

Metchie, who is the Deputy Commander-General of Nigeria Forest Security Service, said this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.

He commended Gov. Charles Soludo for his efforts towards saving the youths from decadence occasioned by get rich quick syndrome.

He said what the level of societal decay in Anambra would have degenerated if Soludo had not intervened when he did.

Metchie lamented the case of drug trafficking involving 23 Anambra indigenes, who had already been convicted and on death row in Indonesia.

According to him, the governor, addressing this issue recently, attributed the problem to the activities of fake native doctors, whom his government has outlawed.

“Soludo raised alarm over the rising number of young indigenes of the state falling victims of drug trafficking scams.

“The Governor heaped the blame on deceptive native doctors, who misled these youths with false promises of supernatural protection.

“Governor Soludo’s mandate needs to be renewed for another four year-term to enable him consolidate on the current reforms.

“Soludo has demonstrated both capacity and competence in reformation and physical development for better positioning of Anambra and our people in Nigeria and internationally,” he said.

Metchie said that the determination of the governor to protect the moral and social fabric of Anambra could best be described as overwhelming, adding that those destroying the society did not see the cleansing waves.

According to him, Soludo had revealed that the 23 Anambra indigenes on death row in Indonesia for drug-related offences were manipulated by self-proclaimed native doctors.

He quoted Soludo as saying that the native doctors sold to the affected youths the dangerous belief that charms could render airport security systems ineffective.

“The governor has condemned the surge in get rich quick approach to life and fetish practices, particularly the rise of “oke ite” (money ritual) peddlers who promote the illusion of instant wealth without hard work.

“He warned that anyone caught making false spiritual claims or promoting illicit wealth schemes would be arrested.

“The governor has drawn a clear line between genuine traditional worship and fraudulent practices, noting that traditionalists of old were among the most upright who believed the gods would punish wrongdoing,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

General News

Experts urge sustainable land use

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By Angela Atabo

Stakeholders in the housing sector have called for urgent action towards responsible land management and sustainable development across Nigeria.

They made the call during the unveiling of the Nathaniel Atebije Foundation and his 70th birthday thanksgiving, held on Friday in Abuja.

Prof. Adamu Ahmed, Guest Lecturer and Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, said God entrusted man with land management, as stated in the religious books.

Speaking on ‘The Ethics of Space and the Moral Imperative of Urban Planning,’ Ahmed described urban planning as an ethical endeavour currently facing serious threats.

He identified threats such as unchecked expansion, deforestation, habitat loss, gentrification, and land grabbing under the guise of urban renewal and agricultural land conversion.

Ahmed added that unregulated development and over-reliance on car-centred infrastructure contribute to carbon emissions, land degradation, and unsustainable living environments.

He urged town planners to reclaim their ethical roles by applying land ethics in all planning decisions and strategies.

This, he said, requires shifting from profit-driven, short-term planning to more inclusive, sustainable, and environmentally conscious urban development.

Ahmed also called for climate-resilient cities, ethical governance, indigenous stewardship, and the prioritisation of ecological integrity in planning efforts.

He praised Atebije’s contributions to urban planning and wished him well on the occasion of his 70th birthday celebration.

The celebrant, Nathaniel Atebije, a former president, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), thanked God for life and emphasised the importance of responsible land use and management.

He criticised unregulated development, which he said is driven by instinct rather than planning, and poses risks to present and future generations.

Atebije explained that his foundation aims to correct irregularities in planning through sustained advocacy and awareness efforts.

“People think instinctive development helps them, but it doesn’t. We must manage land wisely for present and future generations,” he said.

He expressed concern over the non-enforcement of the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law of 1992, amended in 2004.

Atebije urged policymakers and the public to take land issues seriously and support professional planning education and enforcement.

Mr Akintoye Adeoye, president, Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), said Atebije’s contributions have greatly benefited the real estate and town planning ecosystem in Nigeria.

He noted that real estate shapes lives and economies, and advocacy is vital to achieving a fair, sustainable, and well-regulated housing sector.

“At REDAN, we believe collaboration and innovation are key. The Nathaniel Atebije Foundation will help shape reforms and inform policy,” Adeoye said.

Dr Ogbonna Chima, NITP President, commended Atebije for extending his mentorship through the foundation to promote sustainable development.

He said the foundation would inspire future planners and policymakers, acting as a beacon for sustainable and structured growth.

Dr John Abu, Chairman of the occasion, stressed the need to involve town planners to avoid urban chaos and future disasters.

“We hope the foundation gains the support of leaders and highlights the importance of structured regional and urban planning,” he said.

Mr Festus Adebayo, Planning Committee Chair, said stakeholders were honouring Atebije for his outstanding contributions to town planning in Nigeria.

He encouraged other Nigerians to emulate Atebije and actively support national development for the betterment of the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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