NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG’s PPP shoe, garment factories can supply paramilitary needs – ICRC
General News

FG’s PPP shoe, garment factories can supply paramilitary needs – ICRC

435 total views today

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) says the Federal Government’s Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative in the shoe and garment factory can significantly meet the uniform needs of Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies.

A statement issued by Ifeanyi Nwoko, Acting Head, Media and Publicity, ICRC, on Sunday in Abuja, said the PPP is under the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

He said the development followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive on the procurement of locally produced goods, a key component of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The statement quoted Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of ICRC, who spoke during a courtesy visit by the CEO, Erojim Investments Limited, Dr Jimmy Ntuen, as saying:

“The Aba-based shoe and garment factory, alongside a tannery (leather processing facility) set to open in Kano, will significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports.

 

“With the Aba shoe and garment factory capable of producing 1,500 shoes per day, and a tannery set to open in Kano, we are confident that Nigeria can fully meet the uniform needs of our paramilitary agencies.”

“This is not just about producing shoes and garments, it is about creating jobs, supporting local industries, and reducing our dependence on imports in line with the President’s directive to patronise made-in-Nigeria goods.”

 

Ewalefoh added that the Renewed Hope Agenda was not just a political promise but a strategic blueprint for self-reliance, local capacity development, and economic growth driven by effective PPPs.

 

Ntuen, the concessionaire behind the Aba facility, commending President Tinubu, NCoS, and the ICRC for their support, which he described as instrumental to the success of the project.

 

He described the Aba factory as the largest shoe factory in West Africa, boasting an installed capacity to produce 1,500 shoes and cut 10,000 garments daily.

 

Ntuen revealed that the facility had already supplied thousands of high-quality shoes to the NCoS and was ready to meet the needs of other paramilitary outfits.

 

“We have the capability to meet the local needs of government agencies, and very soon, we will begin producing for the general public.

 

“Our Aba factory has created over 300 direct jobs, and the new leather shoe and garment factory launching in three months will create an additional 340 direct jobs and over 1,500 indirect jobs,” he said.

 

He also emphasised that the quality of shoes produced at the factory could be compared with global brands, affirming the potential of Nigerian craftsmanship when adequately supported. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Peaceful reunification will address Taiwan question – Chinese expert
Foreign

Peaceful reunification will address Taiwan question – Chinese expert

303 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Zhu Songbo, Director, Political Section, Chinese Embassy in Nigeria said that achieving peaceful reunification and One Country, Two Systems approach is key to addressing the Taiwan question.

Zhu said this during a media salon on the “One-China Policy as the bedrock of China-Nigeria relations” on Thursday in Abuja.

He affirmed that open dialogue and mutual respect among all relevant parties are vital in achieving the goal.

Emphasising the essence of peaceful reunification, Zhu said, “We are eager to engage in constructive discussions with all stakeholders in Taiwan to bridge the political differences under the umbrella of the one-China principle.

Regarding the One Country, Two Systems framework, he explained how it serves as a mechanism to facilitate a harmonious reunification process.

He reiterated the Chinese government’s commitment to allowing Taiwan to maintain its societal structures and enjoy a considerable level of self-governance post-reunification.

“We maintain that after peaceful reunification, Taiwan may continue its current social system and enjoy a high degree of autonomy in accordance with the law.

“The two social systems will develop side by side for a long time to come.

“We will give full consideration to the realities in Taiwan and the views and proposals from all walks of life on both sides, and fully accommodate the interests and sentiments of our compatriots in Taiwan,” he said.

Zhu also underlined that the Taiwan Question is deeply rooted in historical contexts, primarily stemming from the Chinese Civil War, and remains an internal matter for China.

He condemned any attempts at promoting separatism or ‘Taiwan independence’, reiterating China’s steadfast support for the One-China principle and its opposition to any divisive actions.

Commending the Federal Republic of Nigeria for upholding the one- China policy, Zhu highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria based on mutual respect and recognition.

‘Nigeria recognises the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal Government representing the whole of the Chinese people’.

“Since that, Nigeria has adhered to the one-China principle. China appreciates Nigeria’s effort, including the relocation of the Taipei Trade Office in Nigeria out of Abuja in recent years.

Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, UniAbuja and Director, Centre for Contemporary China-Africa Research emphasised the vital role of embracing peaceful reunification in strengthening China-Nigeria relations.

He urged Taiwan to align with this vision, asserting that any challenge to the One-China Policy would prove futile.

“Nigeria stands firm in its commitment to the one-China principle and will not entertain any disruptions to this enduring bond with China,” Ibrahim said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Media expert calls for collective action to ensure journalists’ safety
General News

Media expert calls for collective action to ensure journalists’ safety

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By Oluwatope Lawanson

A University Lecturer, Dr Ganiyat Tijani-Adenle, has called for collective action to ensure the safety of journalists’ in the AI-driven media era.

Tijani-Adenle made the call at a media stakeholders roundtable on Artificial Intelligence, titled “The Media and Press Freedom: Issues and Perspectives.”

The event was held at the International Press Centre (IPC), Ogba, Lagos, to mark World Press Freedom Day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by IPC and the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria with the support of IFEX.

According to her, journalists and media professionals must be able to perform their work without fear, threats and be protected from harm.

Tijani-Adenle from the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University, Ojo, spoke on a paper titled, “Advancing Journalist Safety: Stakeholders’ Role in AI-Driven Media Era.”

The media expert urged media employers to invest in continuous media and information literacy training, provide protective technology, offer life insurance, ensure freedom of expression and address impunity.

She also called on journalism unions and associations, such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists, to advocate for Rapid Response Units, awareness campaigns, and legal and policy advocacy.

Tijani-Adenle advised academic institutions to update their curricula, build tech literacy, and develop competent AI utilisation tools, recommending partnerships with technology and media companies.

On individual responsibility, Tijani-Adenle emphasised that journalists must take proactive steps to protect themselves from physical and digital harm and verify information to avoid publishing misinformation.

“Even though we expect media employers to protect us and put some things in place, the onus is still on every individual journalist to protect themselves,” she said.

She advised journalists to ensure their safety and the integrity of their work by getting adequate media and information literacy.

“The need for collective action to ensure journalist safety in the AI-driven media era cannot be overemphasised.

“We must work together to create a safe and secure environment for journalists to perform their duties without fear or intimidation,” she said. (NAN) (www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

AI in Journalism: Stakeholders harp on balancing risks, rewards
General News

AI in Journalism: Stakeholders harp on balancing risks, rewards

223 total views today

By Oluwatope Lawanson

Media stakeholders have said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism presents both opportunities and challenges due to its growing integration within the media industry.

This observation was made during a media stakeholders’ roundtable on AI, titled: ‘The Media & Press Freedom: Issues & Perspectives’.

The event was held at the International Press Centre (IPC), Ogba, Lagos, to commemorate World Press Freedom Day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by IPC in collaboration with ACSPN, and supported by IFEX.

IFEX is a global network of over 100 organisations across 70 countries working to advance freedom of expression.

The event also explored links between AI, press freedom, disinformation, and censorship in modern journalism.

Mr Gbenga Ogunleye, a media Law expert described AI as a “necessary evil”, significantly disrupting journalism, much like the earlier influence of new media technologies.

The ex-Provost of the Nigeria Institute of Journalism, noted that AI is widely used across professions, including journalism, bringing both benefits and drawbacks to the practice.

On press freedom, Ogunleye stressed the importance of strong and independent journalism in society.

He said such journalism is crucial for reporting from conflict zones and exposing corruption, crime, and abuse of power.

Ogunleye quoted Scott Griffen of the International Press Institute, saying press freedom is under global strain.

He echoed the need for robust, independent journalism has become more urgent than ever.

Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) President, said AI presents future opportunities and threats for journalism.

Represented by Dr Solomon Oyeleye, he urged scholars and professionals to understand AI’s impact on society.

He said scholars must consider how to train future journalists using AI responsibly and ethically.

Oyeleye added that the current generation must also ensure their use of AI benefits society.

“It’s a double-edged sword, and globally, everyone is still learning to manage it,” he stated.

Oyeleye, a media lawyer and ex-Provost of NIJ, reaffirmed ACSPN’s commitment to communication education and research excellence.

He called for stronger collaboration between media scholars and professionals to shape the future of journalism.

As Professor of Public Relations and Advertising at LASU, he encouraged journalists to join ACSPN.

“I urge you to take up training and engagement opportunities to stay relevant in the AI-driven media landscape,” he said.

The event emphasised the need for journalists to understand AI’s media implications and manage its risks while leveraging its advantages.

Mr Monday Ashibogwu, Publisher of Quick News, said balancing AI’s benefits and threats requires a measured approach.

He called for transparency, ethical standards, and regulatory safeguards to protect press freedom and media integrity.

Ashibogwu advised media houses to use AI for operational efficiency, personalisation, and data-driven journalism.

He urged them to adapt quickly to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing media environment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami
Sports

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami

248 total views today

By Victor Okoye

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, for honouring Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Ambassador of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Odegbami, a Nigerian football legend, was on Tuesday appointed by Abiodun, as the first-ever ‘Grand Sports Ambassador’ in the history of the state.

The role comes with a simple but challenging mandate – to supervise the evolution of a Sports Eco-system in Ogun, plus a Night-Economy during and beyond the upcoming 2025 Gateway Games.

“This is to actualise the vision of the government to put up (for the second time) the best and biggest multi-sports event in Africa (after the All-African Games).

“This will set new standards in harvesting the social, cultural and economic benefits that come with doing so,’’ he said.

Runsewe emphasised the significance of acknowledging and celebrating Nigerian sports heroes, both past and present.

He told NAN on Wednesday in Abuja that by appointing Odegbami as the Grand Ambassador, the governor had set a precedent for recognising national heroes while they were alive.

“I want to sincerely commend the governor for this initiative, which has indeed opened a new chapter in celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heroes, while they are still alive.

“Honouring sports heroes while they’re still alive allows them to appreciate the recognition and enables future generations to learn from their experiences.

“Celebrating sports achievements can foster a culture of excellence, driving sports development, inspiring young athletes, highlights the importance of sports in Nigerian culture, promoting national pride and identity,” he said.

The NGF boss noted that the governor was an administrator, who was very much concerned about the growth and development of sports at the grassroots.

He added that by honouring Odegbami, Gov. Abiodun had demonstrated a commitment to promoting sports development and celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

NAN reports that Odegbami is a renowned Nigerian footballer, who played for Shooting Stars and the Super Eagles, earning the nickname: “Mathematical” for his calculated shots and speed on the right wing.

He won the Nigerian Premier League with Shooting Stars in 1976, 1980, and 1983, and was part of the 1980 AFCON-winning team, scoring crucial goals in the tournament.

After retiring, Odegbami became a successful writer, publisher, television and radio producer, and sports administrator, founding Nigeria’s first wholly private sports show on television.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joe Idika

Grassroots football: 10 teams battle in maiden Kuje football league
Sports

Grassroots football: 10 teams battle in maiden Kuje football league

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

No fewer than 10 teams are set to compete in the maiden edition of the Kuje Football League scheduled to kick-off on Sunday at the Kuje Township stadium.

Muhammed Momoh, Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Kuje Football League, said during a news conference in Kuje on Thursday that the aim was to develop football in that part of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Momoh said that over 180 matches will be played within the five-month duration of the league.

“This league is professionally packaged to set a new benchmark for grassroots football development in the FCT,” he said.

Momoh said that league was also designed to engage youths and stimulate socio-economic activities in Kuje, with strong support from the local community and key football stakeholders.

“Organising a football league of this magnitude in Kuje is long overdue; since I arrived here, I kept asking — why isn’t there a football league in Kuje?

“Football is one of the best ways to engage our youths and energise the community,” he said.

Momoh added that the initiative aligned with the FCT administration’s broader sports development agenda.

“This league is a timely addition to the ongoing efforts by the FCT administration.

“We reached out to sponsors, and thankfully, Pepsi came on board to support the vision; the league promises not just excitement and competition, but also tangible rewards.

“The winner will take home a cash prize of N1.6 million, while the second and third-place teams will receive N600,000 and N400,000 respectively.

“In addition, Pepsi, our main sponsor, will provide jerseys for the participating teams to ensure uniformity and to add value to the tournament,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Holy Ghost FC, Royal Eni FC, Crown Tee FC, Homeboys FC, Cargo FC, Rondo FC, Amazing Grace FC, are some of the participating teams. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

CSOs seek UN action over U.S. migrant deportations
Foreign

CSOs seek UN action over U.S. migrant deportations

297 total views today

By Diana Omueza

The Human Rights Monitors, a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), is calling for the United Nations’ intervention in response to mass deportations of migrants by the United States.

Mr Armsfree Ajanaku, Convener of the coalition, made the appeal during a news conference, on Thursday in Abuja.

The event was themed “Violation of Immigrants’ Rights and the Quest for Justice Through African Reparations.”

Ajanaku said the coalition had monitored various human rights violations related to the arbitrary deportations of immigrants from the U.S. since January 20.

Many of those affected, he said, were Africans and people of African descent.

“While we are not saying a country cannot run its affairs as it deems fit, our concern is with actions that undermine rights, dignity, and civilised norms,” he said.

He described scenes of migrant homes being raided, mass arrests, and families torn apart, with parents detained and children left traumatised.

“These actions, from a country that prides itself on democracy and human rights, clearly violate the rights of asylum seekers and migrants,” Ajanaku said.

He alleged that the United States was denying refuge to those fleeing war zones and political persecution, in contravention of multiple international human rights agreements.

The coalition raised these concerns at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Switzerland in April.

Ajanaku cited breaches of international laws, including: Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: protection against arbitrary arrest and exile.

“Article 14: the right to seek asylum; Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: protection from inhumane treatment.

“As well as violations of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Their Families, and the 1951 Refugee Convention.

“Refugees and immigrants seeking asylum are lawful under both U.S. and international law. Under no circumstance should they be criminalised for entering without visas,” he said.

Ajanaku urged the UN to take legal steps to address the plight of migrants facing forced and arbitrary deportation and to engage with affected persons through CSOs and refugee-focused agencies.

He also called on African leaders to strengthen institutions and infrastructure that could improve the welfare and safety of their citizens, both at home and abroad.

He said with effective systems in place, the people would be more likely to remain in their countries, eliminate barriers to progress, and benefit from good governance.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Abiemwense Moru

House committee tasks MDAs, others on FOI
Politics

House committee tasks MDAs, others on FOI

295 total views today

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The House Committee on Freedom of Information (FOI) has urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and corporate organisations to leverage the FOI Act to advance the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and good governance.

This is contained in a statement signed on Thursday in Abuja by the clerk of the committee, Mrs Felicia Idowu.

She said it was important to engage public institutions on their roles in achieving the objectives behind the FOI Act.

According to her, the law aims at improving the lives of Nigerians by ensuring inclusivity, open government, transparency and accountability.

“It is on this note that the Committee on FOI plans to hold a National strategic stakeholders workshop on June 24 and June 25.

“It is targeted at Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal, States and Local Governments; other public institutions and corporations.

“It will attract authorities whether executive, legislative or judicial agencies, ministries, and extra-ministerial departments of the government.

“It will also involve all corporations established by law and all companies in which government has a controlling interest, and private companies utilizing public funds, providing public services or performing public functions,” she said.

Idowu said that the event would be facilitated by TIMDAVE Global limited to promote, enhance and advance the implementation of the FOI law in Nigeria.

She said the programme would also involve Civil Society Organisations as well as all corporate organisations that utilise government resources, as custodians of information.

The FOI Act was enacted on May 28, 2011.

However, 14 years after establishment its implementation by government institutions and corporate organisations has remained poor. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Lagos MSME tripartite agreement to spur finance access for entrepreneurs – BoI
Economy/Business

Lagos MSME tripartite agreement to spur finance access for entrepreneurs – BoI

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By Rukayat Moisemhe and Aderonke Ojediran

The Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr Olasupo Olusi, has described its tripartite agreement with the Lagos State Government and Sterling Bank Plc’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as a new chapter for entrepreneurs in the state.

Olusi said this at the signing of the Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) of the Lagos State Access to Finance for SMEs through Cooperatives on Wednesday in Lagos.

He said the development would spur access, opportunity and inclusion for entrepreneurs in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the development comes as a groundbreaking partnership bringing together the public and private sectors in a shared mission to empower entrepreneurs.

Olusi stated that the strategic initiative would enhance the potential of Lagos’ MSMEs by dismantling structural barriers that had long constrained access to opportunity.

Olusi revealed that BoI currently had over N500 billion in investment footprints across Lagos State, which was more than any other state in Nigeria.

This development, he asserted, reflected the bank’s longstanding confidence in the energy, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Lagos people.

“This strategic effort will unlock the creativity, resilience, and potential of Lagos’ MSMEs by dismantling the structural barriers that have long constrained access to opportunity.

“At the Bank of Industry, we believe MSMEs are the engine of economic growth; driving innovation, creating jobs, and expanding opportunities.

“However, we also know that without access to finance, their potential remains limited.

“This is why the Government of President Bola Tinubu is focused on delivering access to financeto the MSME segment of Nigerian enterprises and this programme is designed to change that,” he said.

Olusi said the MSME scheme targeted key sectors central to Lagos State’s development including healthcare, manufacturing, agribusiness, creative industries and the digital economy.

He, however, stressed that beyond the funding, the programme aimed to support the entire working ecosystem built for success.

He stated that the initiative was fully technology-driven, from application to disbursement, ensuring speed, transparency, and real-time impact tracking.

He added that up to 50 per cent of the fund was backed by a bank guarantee, therefore de-risking the lending process and building stakeholder confidence.

Olusi said that access to the funds would be facilitated through certified cooperatives, which will ensure structure, trust, and accountability.

“Finally, there is an accelerator programme, offering MSMEs mentorship, training, and digital tools to help them grow and compete.

“At the heart of it all is accessibility as under this scheme, MSMEs can access up to N10 million at a single-digit interest rate of nine per cent per annum, without collateral.

“This removes one of the biggest obstacles facing small businesses and brings inclusive finance within real reach. It’s an approach backed by experience.

“The N10 billion fund is the first partof a scalable, performance-based agreement and as goals are met, the fund can grow, fostering continuous growth and empowerment,” he said.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, lauded the BoI and Sterling Bank for the partnership.

Sanwo-Olu charged beneficiaries to use the funding to grow their businesses, repay on schedule to engender more access to funding opportunities.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to creating an environment that supported the growth and development of MSMEs.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

NOUN strategises to strengthen open, distance learning
Education

NOUN strategises to strengthen open, distance learning

299 total views today

By Emmanuel Afonne

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, says the institution is re-strategising to strengthen its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) pattern of education.

Mafiana said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

He noted that other universities under the auspices of Open, Distance and e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN) would be carried along.

Mafiana said ODeLAN would collaborate with NOUN to strengthen the field of the ODL, using adaptive technologies.

“This is the reason we have decided to hold the third edition of the ODeLAN International Conference in Nigeria, from May 14 to May 16, 2025 at the Conference Centre, NOUN Headquarters, Abuja.

“The theme of the conference is Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies and Communities,” Mafiana said.

Mafiana, who doubles as the Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the conference, said participants are expected to explore innovative open educational approaches and models for shaping the future of learning in African contexts across all educational levels.

He said the annual conference would also explore practical, engaging approaches to connect learners, technologies and communities for a brighter educational future.

Mafiana said the event would witness the convergence of educators, academics, researchers and practitioners from universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and pre-tertiary levels.

He added that policy makers, industry professionals, government agency representatives and the general public would participate in the event.

Mafiana said the conference would feature paper presentations, panel discussions and workshops, with focus on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in open, distance, and e-learning.

“Prof. Peter Scott, President Commonwealth of Learning, Canada; Prof. Mpine Makoe, Executive Dean College of Education, University of South Africa and Prof. Tayo Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor, Miva Open University, Abuja Nigeria, are the keynote speakers,” he said.

It would be recalled that the first series of the international conference was held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun, in 2023 with the theme, “Global Spaces, Local Contexts: Digital Transformations and Creative Innovations in Open Distance and e-learning “.

The second edition was held at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2024 with the theme: “Inclusive Digital Learning Ecosystems in Open, Distance and e-learning Education”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

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