News Agency of Nigeria
TICAD9: Nigeria focused on strategic engagements, not trade expo —- Presidency

TICAD9: Nigeria focused on strategic engagements, not trade expo —- Presidency

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎The Presidency has said Nigeria’s delegation to the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is focused on strategic engagements, not a trade exhibition.

In a statement on Wednesday, Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said President Bola Tinubu’s delegation is pursuing results in key sectors such as power, industry, and agriculture.

The clarification follows social media reports showing an empty booth labelled “Nigeria” at the TICAD9 venue in Yokohama, Japan.

Onanuga described the viral narrative as a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s mission at the triennial conference, stressing that the country is not participating as a trade exhibitor.

He noted that while the reports may reflect patriotic concern, they reveal ignorance about Nigeria’s actual objectives at TICAD9.

According to him, Nigeria’s participation is centred on forging bilateral and multilateral partnerships that will support economic growth and development.

Onanuga revealed that the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) will host a targeted investment forum at the conference on Thursday.

He added that ministers are holding bilateral meetings, while President Tinubu will meet executives from Toyota, CFAO, UN-Habitat, UNDP, and the International Finance Corporation.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is leading talks on several projects backed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including power transmission improvements in Lagos and Ogun states.

Other projects include a partnership between the National Power Training Institute (NAPTIN) and JICA on vocational training, and a $190 million renewable energy access initiative.

Adelabu is also scheduled to meet with leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), such as TOSHIBA and HITACHI, on possible collaborations in the power sector.

Onanuga further disclosed that the Bank of Industry, led by Dr Supo Olusi, is engaged in high-level talks with JICA and other multilateral financial institutions.

He affirmed that Nigeria is well represented at TICAD9 and actively involved in all critical diplomatic and investment negotiations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

‎TICAD9: Tinubu arrives in Japan, seeks to bolster Asia-Nigeria investment

‎TICAD9: Tinubu arrives in Japan, seeks to bolster Asia-Nigeria investment

‎‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Tokyo, Japan, to attend the ninth edition of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).

‎Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga said President Tinubu touched down in Tokyo early Tuesday (local time) for the high-level summit.

‎The President will join other African leaders, development partners, and stakeholders at the influential international forum.

‎The event which will be held from Aug. 20 to Aug. 22 at the Pacifico Yokohama, will serve as a strategic platform for the President to strengthen and attract Asian investors to Nigeria.

‎President Tinubu was received at the Presidential Wing of the Haneda International Airport, Tokyo, by Amb. Hideo Matsubara, the Ambassador in charge of Haneda Airport for TICAD.

‎Also present were Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and officials from the Nigerian Embassy after the plane touched down at 00:50 am local time.

‎Initiated by the Japanese government, TICAD is co-hosted by the UN, UNDP, African Union Commission, and the World Bank.

‎The triennial summit alternates between Japan and Africa, with Tunisia hosting the last edition.

‎TICAD9 is themed “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” focusing on economic transformation through innovation and private investment.

‎It also aims to foster a resilient and sustainable African society rooted in peace, stability, and human security.

‎During the conference, President Tinubu will hold bilateral meetings and participate in high-profile meetings with the chief executive officers of some Japanese companies with investments in Nigeria.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu’s participation in TICAD9 marks his first official visit to Japan since assuming office in May 2023, a milestone in his foreign diplomacy.

‎His participation signals Nigeria’s commitment to deeper ties with Japan, leveraging innovation and strategic collaboration at TICAD9.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu’s State Visit: Nigeria, Brazil to sign MoU on direct flight

Tinubu’s State Visit: Nigeria, Brazil to sign MoU on direct flight

By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal Republic of Nigeria is set to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federative Republic of Brazil on Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) to unlock direct flight.

Mr Obafemi Bajomo, Special Adviser on Foreign Direct Investments to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

Bajomo said that the final documents and instruments in the BASA are ready for exchange and execution with the Brazilian authorities during the visit of President Bola Tinubu to Brazil.

NAN reports that Tinubu left Abuja on Aug. 15, for a two-nation working visit to Japan and Brazil.

In a statement issued by the Presidency, Tinubu will participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) holding in Yokohama from Aug. 20 to Aug 22.

From Japan, the President will proceed to Brasilia on Aug. 24 for a two-day state visit on the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva.

Bajomo told NAN that, Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development , will join President Tinubu on the high-profile State visit to Brasilia for the signing of the agreement.

According to him, the BASA is expected to pave way for four to five weekly direct flights, likely operated by Nigerian carriers such as Air Peace and Caverton, marking a new chapter in South Atlantic aviation.

“At the heart of this visit lies a long-anticipated breakthrough, signing of BASA, a milestone that promises to redefine air connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange between the two largest economies in Africa and South America.

“This journey began in May 2025, when the Minister led a Nigerian delegation to Brazil to open formal bilateral talks with his counterpart, Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho.

“ Those discussions, held in Brasília went beyond ceremonial pleasantries, they birthed a technical working group tasked with harmonising the BASA for imminent signature, “ he said.

According to him, both nations committed to bypassing bureaucratic bottlenecks, pushing the agreement from discussion to execution in record time.

“Today, that vision stands on the cusp of reality, with all statutory processes and ministerial vetting.

“Also, legal clearance by the Federal Ministry of Justice, and Federal Executive Council approval—already completed.

“The direct flights by the BASA will reduce travel time, cut logistics costs, and open new trade corridors for agricultural products, manufactured goods, and services.

“For Nigerian exporters, Brazilian markets will become more accessible than ever before.

“With deep-rooted Yoruba heritage woven into Brazil’s history, this agreement reactivates centuries-old cultural bonds, opening opportunities for tourism, festivals, and people-to-people exchanges, “ he said.

Beyond air routes, Bajomo added that both ministers had mapped out plans for technical cooperation including pilot training and airport infrastructure upgrades among others to position Nigeria as a stronger player in global aviation.

“If signed as planned, the BASA will be a bridge of opportunity. It will connect two continents through commerce, tourism, and share aspirations, strengthening not only economic resilience but also cultural understanding.

“As Nigeria and Brazil prepare to ink this historic deal, they are not just signing an agreement—they are writing a new chapter in transcontinental partnership, one that could resonate for generations, “ he said.

Bajomo quoted Keyamo as describing Nigeria and Brazil as twins separated at birth, now reunited, signaling cultural and economic depth of the relationship. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu congratulates winners of by-elections in 12 states, hails INEC ‎

Tinubu congratulates winners of by-elections in 12 states, hails INEC ‎

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has congratulated all the winners of Saturday’s by-elections in 16 constituencies across 12 states.

‎This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on Sunday in Abuja.

‎The President also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the hitch-free elections, mostly devoid of violence.

‎Following the results declared by INEC, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in 12 constituencies, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) won in two, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won in one, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) won in one.

‎Tinubu congratulated the new APC national Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, for the emphatic first victory recorded under his leadership.

‎He also lauded the APC governors and other leaders on the success of the by-elections.

‎”Chairman Yilwatda has shown leadership capacity and demonstrated what is achievable when popular candidates are fielded and with unity of purpose among party leaders,” the President remarks.

‎”To all APC faithful and the electorate, thank you for the confidence reposed in our party. Be assured that our Renewed Hope slogan is not a mere slogan. Our destination is a better, more secure and prosperous Nigeria. We shall take you there, by the Grace of God,” he said.

‎Tinubu commended all the political parties and candidates who participated in the election and enjoined them to continue to be guided by the spirit of sportsmanship and fair, which are enablers of enduring democracy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

‎Tinubu felicitates Babangida at 84, applauds his legacy in nation-building

‎Tinubu felicitates Babangida at 84, applauds his legacy in nation-building

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former military president, retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, on his 84th birthday.

‎The congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday in Abuja.

‎Tinubu extended warm wishes to Babangida’s family, friends, and associates, praising his contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.

‎He highlighted Babangida’s eight-year rule as a period of significant national transformation and institutional reform.

‎The President lauded Babangida’s distinguished military career, including
‎serving as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Commander of the 4 Reconnaissance Regiment, Commander of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Director of Army Staff Duties and Plans, and Chief of Army Staff

‎Tinubu said Babangida’s administration would be remembered for bold reforms and massive investment in national infrastructure.

‎He cited landmark achievements like the construction of the Third Mainland Bridge and the liberalisation of Nigeria’s economy.

‎Tinubu also praised the creation of critical security institutions during Babangida’s regime, including the SSS, NIA, DIA, and FRSC.

‎He further acknowledged Babangida’s role in state creation and the strategic relocation of the federal capital to Abuja.

‎The President thanked Babangida for his sacrifice and service and prayed for his continued health, strength, and long life. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Are proven cases of intimidation, sexual abuse by elites unpunishable?

Are proven cases of intimidation, sexual abuse by elites unpunishable?

By Patricia Amogu

Political status shapes both the process and outcome of sexual misconduct cases anywhere in the world
While sexual violence is a widespread issue affecting many sectors of society, a particularly troubling dimension lies in the involvement of the elite — those in positions of power and influence who have allegedly used their authority to perpetrate or shield themselves from the consequences of such abuse.
While some systems hold elites to account, others reveal persistent gaps – especially where procedural protections become barriers to justice.
Former President of Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega, was accused by his stepdaughter of prolonged sexual abuse, but he attempted to claim parliamentary immunity.
He publicly denied the allegations, and legal immunity was asserted. So, no criminal trial proceeded.
However, in December 2010, former Israeli President Moshe Katsav was convicted on charges of rape, sexual abuse, and obstruction of justice.
He was sentenced to seven years in prison and served five.
In 1998, Canaan Banana, the former president of Zimbabwe, was convicted of sodomy and indecent assault and served a prison sentence.
The list of many such cases goes on and on, including in Nigeria.
During these regimes, political leaders and military officers enjoyed near-absolute immunity from prosecution. Women, especially those in vulnerable positions (household workers, political aides, or journalists), were often subject to sexual coercion with little recourse for justice. These dynamics continued well into the democratic era that began in 1999.

Analysts have pointed out that in Nigeria, just as in other climes, the law against sexual abuse, encompassing rape and other forms of sexual violence, applies to everyone regardless of their position or status.
They say that while certain individuals like those in the military or with diplomatic immunity might have limited legal protections, they are still subject to the law in cases of sexual abuse.
According to them, the law’s application is not based on social status, but rather on the act of sexual violence itself.
The laws against sexual abuse, such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) (2015) and the Criminal Code, apply to all individuals in Nigeria, including those in positions of power or authority.
Over the years, several high-profile cases have sparked national outrage, but many never made it to court or were dismissed due to “lack of evidence,” political interference, or victim intimidation. Some examples include:
In 2019, a video surfaced showing a senator physically assaulting a woman in a sex toy shop in Abuja. Although initially convicted in a civil suit and fined, the criminal case was controversially dismissed.
His political career continued, and he faced no long-term consequences, illustrating the impunity often enjoyed by political elites.
Similarly, a senator in Nigeria’s Eighth Senate has faced multiple allegations of misconduct and abuse from various women, including those he dated or had professional dealings with.
Although he denied the allegations and no formal charges were brought, the stories have fueled broader conversations about entitlement, abuse, and misogyny within the political class.
The case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is another matter begging for a re-evaluation of how complaints by female victims of sexual abuse should be handled.
March 21, 2025, one Ms. Felicia Ogbonna, a 21-year-old Nigerian, demanded government intervention and justice over an alleged serial sexual assault committed against her by a Lagos businessman (names withheld).
Speaking at a news conference, at a news conference organised by her lawyer, Mr Martin Agba, in Abuja on Friday, Ogbonna alleged that the suspect had repeatedly raped her, even with the knowledge of his wife.
Then, most recently is a new and explosive case that reveals the terrifying extent to which power can be used by the elite class to silence, shame, and destroy a woman who dares to speak the truth.
The case involves one Hadiza Musa Baffa, and the man she accuses is no less than a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former minister who served under President Goodluck Jonathan.
Hadiza has alleged that the man not only abused her sexually, but also violated, manipulated, and trafficked her into sexual servitude. The list of such cases is endless, with many of them unreported due to fear of stigma.
While many such allegations remain unsubstantiated or anonymous due to fear of retaliation, numerous stories exist of female staffers being harassed or assaulted by state governors, top civil servants, or former military generals who transitioned into politics.
Meanwhile, Civil society organisations (CSOs) across Nigeria and Africa have been vocal in condemning sexual abuse and violence perpetrated by the elite, calling for urgent reforms and accountability.
Their statements highlight systemic issues, demand institutional changes, and emphasise the need for a cultural shift to ensure justice and equality.
For instance, Actionaid Nigeria has strongly condemned recent allegations of sexual harassment within the National Assembly and has demanded a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into allegations of sexual abuse and violence, as well as elite impunity in order to uphold human rights and public trust.
Speaking in Abuja, ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, stated, “For fairness and to maintain public trust in the process, the Code of Conduct Bureau and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) must work alongside the National Assembly’s Ethics Committee to conduct a full-scale investigation that meets international human rights standards.
“This investigation must determine the veracity of both past and recent allegations and ensure accountability for any wrongdoing.
“At the same time, if the accusations are found to be false or politically motivated, this must also be taken seriously, as false claims undermine genuine cases of harassment and the fight for justice.”
Mamedu called for the reinforcement of the protection for whistleblowers in cases of sexual abuse and intimidation.
‘‘Additionally, protection for whistleblowers and those who come forward with allegations must be reinforced to prevent intimidation or retaliation, including possible online bullying,” he said.
Similarly, Solidarity for African Women’s Rights (SOAWR), a coalition of more than 80 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across 33 African countries, advocating for the implementation of the Maputo Protocol, has emphasised the importance of holding political elites accountable for sexual violence and urges African governments to strengthen legal frameworks to protect women.
Also, Human Rights Watch has reported on the challenges faced by survivors of sexual violence in accessing justice, particularly when perpetrators are in positions of power.
They call for reforms to ensure that justice systems are accessible and responsive to the needs of survivors, regardless of the perpetrator’s status.
To bring an end to such elite impunity, or at least reduce it to the barest minimum, analysts have recommended the establishment of independent and autonomous bodies to investigate such cases of sexual abuse involving the elite.
They also called for the strict implementation of laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child Rights Act, as well as the creation of safeguards and enforcement of policies within political institutions to prevent sexual harassment and abuse.
They also believe that strategic awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate the public about women’s rights and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
According to them, legal and psychological support should be provided for survivors of sexual violence. (NANFeatures)(www.nannews.ng)

***If published please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

‎FG imposes 7-year ban on new federal tertiary institutions

‎FG imposes 7-year ban on new federal tertiary institutions

‎FG imposes 7-year ban on new federal tertiary institutions


‎Moratorium
‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎Abuja, Aug. 13, 2025 (NAN) The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a seven-year moratorium on the establishment of new federal tertiary institutions.

‎Dr Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education announced the approval, after Wednesday’s FEC meeting, presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

‎He explained the ban applies to all federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

According to Alausa, the decision aims to address systemic decay caused by unregulated expansion.

‎”What we are witnessing today is duplication of new federal tertiary institutions, a significant reduction in the current capacity of each institution, and degradation of both physical infrastructure and manpower.”

‎“If we do not act decisively, it will lead to marked declines in educational quality and undermine the international respect that Nigerian graduates command.”

‎“We are doing this to further halt decays in tertiary institutions which may in future affect the quality of education and consequently cause unemployment of graduates from some of these institutions.”

‎Alausa noted Nigeria currently has 72 federal universities, 108 state universities, and 159 private universities with similar trends in polytechnics and colleges of education.

‎He pointed to a growing mismatch between the number of institutions and available student enrollment.

‎He cited a northern university with fewer than 800 students but over 1,200 staff, calling it unsustainable.

‎The minister described the moratorium as a bold corrective measure by the Tinubu administration.

‎He said the government would now focus on upgrading existing institutions, improving infrastructure, boosting manpower, and increasing capacity.

‎“We need to improve the quality of our education system and increase the carrying capacity of our current institutions so that Nigerian graduates can maintain and enhance the respect they enjoy globally.”

‎The minister however announced that the Council approved 9 new private universities out of the 79 active requests pending applications.

‎”Several of these applications have been in the pipeline for over six years, with investors having already built campuses and invested billions of Naira,” he explained.

‎“Due to inefficiencies within the NUC, approvals were delayed. We have since introduced reforms to streamline these processes, and today’s approvals are a result of clearing this backlog.”
‎(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FEC approves m, N13 bn for power sector  transformation

FEC approves $34m, N13 bn for power sector transformation

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved major funding to upgrade power infrastructure across the country, in a bid to boost electricity supply and support national industrial growth.


‎Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this after Wednesday’s FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

‎He said four key proposals were approved, marking a new phase in the country’s ongoing power sector transformation agenda.

‎Adelabu said that the first approved proposal involves the resumption of compensation payments for right-of-way access for key industrial and transmission projects.


‎”FEC approved N13 billion for compensation under the Lagos Transmission Industrial Project, backed by a $238 million loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

‎“The request submitted was approval for the sum of 13 billion naira for the Lagos trans industrial of transmission project which is being funded through a $230 million development loan from Japanese International Cooperation Agency jaika.

‎“This project, when completed, will not only improve capacity and credibility of power supply along the industrial axis of Lagos Ogun, it will also be good news for industrial development and ensure that industries around that axis enjoy improved supply.”

The minister said the project will boost electricity to industrial corridors in Lagos and Ogun States, ensuring manufacturers receive stable power supply.

‎“This funding covers compensation to property owners and communities affected by the transmission lines’ route.”

‎“Once completed, the Lagos Industrial Transmission Project will ensure that our industrial estates have the dedicated, stable power they need to drive economic growth and create jobs,” the minister said.

‎Adelabu said the project supports the government’s vision to “use what we produce and produce what we use” by powering local industries and reducing reliance on imports.

‎He stressed that stable electricity is vital for industrialisation, job creation, and sustainable economic development.

‎He added that the remaining three approved proposals relate to the procurement of new power transformers to upgrade the aging national grid.

‎“The other three papers were actually in respect of approval for procurement of various grids of power transformers to replace weak and dilapidated ones across the national grid.

‎“If this is done, it will not only enhance power supply, but to also relieve overloaded power transformers that is operating across the national grid, and this will also enable us to cope with the increased wheeling capacity of the national grid.”

‎He noted that much of the national grid is over 50 years old and struggles with frequent overloads and equipment failures.

‎“Many of the transformers, cables and related components are weak and prone to failure. Regular maintenance and timely replacement are essential if we are to achieve a stable, reliable and effective grid that meets the needs of households, offices, small businesses and industries.”

‎To address this, he said FEC approved the purchase of 14 high-capacity transformers costing $34 million, plus an additional N5.2 billion.

‎“The new transformers include two 150MVA 330/132/33kV units, five 100MVA 132/33kV units, five 60MVA 132/33kV units, and two 30MVA 132/33kV units.”

‎The minister said the upgrades will ease pressure on overstretched sections of the grid and improve system efficiency.

‎He added that enhanced transformer capacity will help the grid support increased electricity generation and wheeling capabilities.

‎He emphasised the need for continuous maintenance and modernization to avoid breakdowns and ensure uninterrupted supply.

‎Adelabu assured Nigerians of improved electricity access across homes, offices, small businesses, and industries.

‎The minister described the development as “good news for Nigerians,” saying reliable power is essential for growth and competitiveness.

‎He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that the power sector reforms translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens.‎(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Nation Building: 800 youths participate in policy initiatives competition

Nation Building: 800 youths participate in policy initiatives competition

By Franca Ofili

No fewer than 800 young Nigerians across the six geopolitical zones have participated in a competition to design policy initiatives to solve national challenges.

Mr Ayokunnu Ojeniyi, Founder, Future Pathways Development Initiative, an NGO, disclosed this at an event tagged, Policy Conference for Youths and Awards Ceremony, held in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the initiative was designed to inspire youths to proffer evidence-based policy solutions to critical national issues.

Ojeniyi said the goal of the initiative was to raise national consciousness, reminding young Nigerians that they do not have to wait to achieve their dreams

He encouraged the youth to cultivate the habit of hard work and remain focused in order to build a better future.

Ojeniyi urged all levels of government to inspire young Nigerians to believe in the nation and revive hope in the Nigerian dream.

“Let us have our own Nigerian dream, where every young person can aspire and become whoever they want to be, irrespective of their background,

“If we keep emphasising how bad the environment is and claim young people can’t succeed, we’re only paving the way for worse outcomes,.

“Although, the environment might be challenging, young people still have the potential to succeed,” he said.

Ojeniyi said the conference would feature the grand finale, where the winner would receive the prize and other participants would be awarded cash prizes and internships for exemplary performances.

Also speaking at the event, Mr Dapo Oyewole, Special Adviser on Development Planning and International Affairs to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasised the need to restore hope in Nigeria youths.

“There is no future without the youth. We must empower them to rise as far as their hearts can take them,” he said.

Oyewole urged leaders to cultivate national pride and aspiration among young Nigerians.

“As leaders, we must give young Nigerians a reason to dream. The same dream that is possible in America can be a Nigerian dream too,” he said.

He further encouraged young people to continuously invest in their personal growth and education.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Tinubu appoints board members for NCC, USPF

Tinubu appoints board members for NCC, USPF

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has constituted the boards of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).

‎Both agencies are under the supervision of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE).

‎The ‎Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, announced the appointment in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

‎Idris Olorunnimbe was appointed Chairman of the NCC, while Dr Aminu Maida remains its Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer.

‎It will be recalled that President Tinubu appointed Wada to the position in October 2023, and the Senate confirmed the appointment in November 2023.

‎Olorunnimbe previously served on the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) Board, where he chaired the Stakeholder and Governance Committee and drove impactful youth employment and entrepreneurship programmes.

‎Other members of the board are Abraham Oshidami – Executive Commissioner, Technical Services; Rimini Makama – Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management and Hajia Maryam Bayi – Former Director, Human Capital & Administration.

‎Others are Col. Abdulwahab Lawal (Rtd), Sen. Lekan Mustafa, Chris Okorie, Oforitsenere Emiko as Secretary of the Board.

‎The President also approved the Board of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), with Dr Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, as Chairman.

‎Other members are Idris Olorunnimbe – Vice Chairman; Abraham Oshidami, Rimini Makama, Aliyu Edogi Aliyu (Rep FMCIDE) and Joseph Faluyi (Rep. of Federal Ministry of Finance).

‎Others are; Auwal Mohammed – (Rep. of FMBNP), Uzoma Dozie, Peter Bankole, Abayomi Okanlawon, Gafar Quadri as the USPF Secretary.

‎The Federal Government established the USPF to facilitate the achievement of national policy goals for universal access and service to information and communication technologies (ICTs) in rural, unserved and underserved areas in Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

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