NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Akwa Ibom wins fastest-growing health agency award
Health

Akwa Ibom wins fastest-growing health agency award

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By Aderogba George

The Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) has been named the ‘Fastest Growing Agency in Health Care Coverage in 2025’ by the Institute of Health Insurance and Managed Care.

The award was presented at a ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Chairman of the Institute, Dr Hope Uweja, commended the establishment of State Health Insurance Schemes across the country, describing them as a key driver in Nigeria’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

He said his eight years of experience in the sector had deepened his appreciation of the impact these schemes are making.

Uweja lauded the efforts of states like Akwa Ibom for their commitment to expanding health insurance coverage.

“If there is one aspect of our health insurance ecosystem that I particularly appreciate, it is the establishment of the State Health Insurance Schemes.

“These schemes are playing a significant role in paving the way towards achieving UHC in Nigeria,” he said.

He congratulated the awardees and welcomed participants from across the country to the event, which recognised outstanding contributions to the growth of the sector.

Receiving the award on behalf of AKSHIA, the Executive Secretary, Dr Arthur Igbemi, said the scheme, launched on September 20, 2024, was established to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to all residents of Akwa Ibom State.

AKSHIA Executive Secretary, Dr Arthur Igbemi

He said the ARISECare programme had already enrolled over 47,000 residents and was now expanding to cover more than 52,000 civil servants and their dependents, with a target of reaching up to 200,000 people.

“Through this programme, we are reducing out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare and promoting economic productivity,” he said.

Igbemi attributed the agency’s success to the strong support of Gov. Umo Eno, whom he praised for prioritising health in his development agenda.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the Governor’s vision. He is committed to keeping rural communities healthy, enabling them to remain close to home, farm, and generate income,” he said.

He also highlighted ongoing projects in the state, including the construction of a Medical City, emergency services unit, and a new model Primary Healthcare Centre, some of which were recently commissioned by the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.

Dr Edikan Ekwere, Chairman of the AKSHIA Governing Board, also expressed his joy at the recognition.

“I am so elated and in high spirits, and it’s no small feat for us to receive this award just six months after launching our programme.

“For me, it is a great joy, and I thank God for making this day possible.”

Dr Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, presenting the award on behalf of the institute to AKSHIA team.

He also thanked Gov. Umo Eno for his unwavering support, political will, and investment in the health sector, particularly through his ARISE agenda.

“The Governor has been instrumental in setting up the health insurance board and giving us a clear mandate. Since then, we’ve been working tirelessly towards achieving this milestone,” he said.

Dr Ekwere dedicated the award to God, the Governor, the AKSHIA board members, and the agency’s staff for their dedication and hard work.

Mr Aniekan Akpan, Permanent Secretary of the Akwa Ibom Liaison Office, also thanked the governor for his proactive leadership in enabling the state’s participation in the health insurance programme.

“We want to thank the Governor for being so proactive in activating all that was needed for the state to join the health insurance team,” he said.

While acknowledging that there was a slow start, Akpan emphasised that the state had now caught up due to the Governor’s consistent drive and leadership.

“Since we started, we’ve improved health coverage for low-income earners, which is crucial for the health insurance scheme to take off in the state.

“The setting up of the board to monitor the agency’s activities has been pivotal, and we are already reaping the benefits of this pragmatic leadership, as evidenced by this award,” he concluded.

NAN reports that goodwill messages were delivered by Dr Salma Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, Dr Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, along with various state representatives. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Akpabio warns MDAs on non-compliance with NASS resolutions
Politics

Akpabio warns MDAs on non-compliance with NASS resolutions

325 total views today

By Kingsley Okoye

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government, against non-compliance with Senate resolutions.

He said that compliance with legislative resolutions were not optional but binding on MDAs and other public institutions.

Akpabio stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the 2nd National Workshop organised by the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop had as it’s theme “Consolidating Strategies for Strengthening Legislative Compliance by MDAs.”

Akpabio, who was represented by Sen. Osita Ngwu, the Minority Whip of the Senate, said compliance was a constitutional obligation owed by all arms and levels of government to the people of Nigeria.

” let me state emphatically, compliance with legislative resolutions is not optional. It is absolutely fundamental.

“Our laws, policies, and oversight functions are meant to guide the execution of government programmes in a manner that ensures transparency, equity, and effectiveness.

“When departments and agencies fail to comply with legislative directives, they undermine not just the authority of the legislature but the collective will of the Nigerian people, whom we all represent,” he said.

The president of the Senate stressed the need for public institutions to work closely with the National Assembly to develop an egalitarian society.

“When public institutions ignore legislative resolutions, when compliance becomes selective, and when oversight is treated with disdain, the result is a breakdown in trust.

“As the President of the Senate, I give you full assurance that the National Assembly remains unwavering in its resolve to ensure that its resolutions are not only respected but also implemented.

“The days of impunity must give way to the reign of institutional discipline. However, enforcement must be accompanied by engagement,” he said.

Sen. Ede Dafinone, Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, in his remarks decried the non-compliance of some MDAS to National Assembly resolutions.

“In recent times, we have witnessed several instances where MDAs and public institutions have either delayed or outrightly disregarded legislative resolutions passed by the Senate.

“These actions not only undermine the authority of the legislature but also weaken the very foundation of our democratic institutions,” he said.

He said the workshop was aimed at providing a platform for stakeholders to critically examine the root causes of non-compliance.

According to him, they include legal ambiguity, institutional rivalry, capacity gaps, and bureaucratic challenges.

He noted that the goal was to develop practical and enforceable solutions.

Dafinone urged MDAs to collectively work towards bridging the gap between legislation and execution for good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the benefit of the Nigerian people.

Mr Francis Usani, Director of Fraud Risk Assessment, Prevention and Control, who represented the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, commended the initiators of the workshop.

“This workshop couldn’t have come at a better time—when we are witnessing increased instances of laws, policies, rules, and regulations being observed more in the breach than in compliance,” he said

He emphasised that the legislature, by constitutional provision, is saddled with the responsibility of making laws for good governance and democracy.

He added that democracy can only be sustained where laws are made and obeyed.

“Compliance with resolutions made by the legislature is therefore critical to the sustenance of institutions. It is widely said that where there are no laws, there will be anarchy.

“And where laws are made but not complied with or implemented, there will also be anarchy,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Group lauds AMAC chairman’s developmental strides
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

Foundation urges FG to regulate orphanages
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, 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

Expert tasks NAESENI on solar panel production 
Science & Tech

Expert tasks NAESENI on solar panel production 

329 total views today

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

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

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

440 total views today

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

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

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

341 total views today

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

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

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

262 total views today

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

NSF: NSC begins media accreditation for Gateway Games
Sports

NSF: NSC begins media accreditation for Gateway Games

367 total views today

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

Tinubu tasks NOUN on technology advancement
Education

Tinubu tasks NOUN on technology advancement

345 total views today

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

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