News Agency of Nigeria
Perm Sec tasks sports ministry officials on professionalism, productivity

Perm Sec tasks sports ministry officials on professionalism, productivity

390 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs Tinuke Watti has charged  administrative and executive officers in the ministry on the need for professionalism and enhanced productivity.

Watti made the call on Tuesday in Abuja, at a sensitization workshop for administrative and executive officers in the ministry on professionalism on human resource management in the Federal Civil Service.

She underscored the need for ministry officials to do more in obtaining the necessary professional certifications from approved professional bodies in order to enhance efficient service delivery.

“Henceforth Administrative officers are required to obtain professional certifications from relevant and approved professional bodies for progression in the Service.

“Specifically, possession of such certifications shall be one of the conditions for promotion from GL 13-GL 14., in addition to other criteria prescribed in the Public Service Rules and Guidelines on Appointment, Promotion and Discipline,” she said.

Watti, who stressed the importance of training and capacity building, said the workshop was part of the reforms by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan aimed at efficient service delivery.

She expressed optimism that the workshop would go a long way in equipping and enhancing the capacity of officials in line with international best practices.

Earlier, Mrs Modupe Bankole, Managing Consultant, Diadems Global Support Services, the lead Resource person at the workshop stressed the importance of professionalism and certification to enhance productivity.

“Given the different reforms from the Head of Service, it is important that competent officials manage human management.

“The staff needs to know what competences they need to acquire, what skills and how they can give their best in the civil service,” she said.

Bankole said that given the strategic importance of the sports sector,  all hands must be on deck to ensure that the mandate of the ministry was realised.

She said that accredited professional bodies were also part of the workshop to ensure continuous capacity building, while Diadems will continue to work with the ministry to track deliveries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that professional bodies at the workshop included the Chartered Institute of Human Resources, and Strategic Management (CIHRM).

Others are the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) and the Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria (chartered). (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Nigeria, UK’s trade relations currently worth £7bn – Envoy

Nigeria, UK’s trade relations currently worth £7bn – Envoy

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By Chinenye Offor

Dr Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner in Nigeria, on Sunday said trade relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK) currently stands at about seven billion pounds sterling.

Montgomery told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that Nigeria and the UK signed a new agreement on enhanced trade and investment partnership and agreed to work on a range of sectors.

He identified the sectors as agriculture, the creative industry, legal, financial services, and education.

Montgomery stated that trade between the UK and Nigeria is balanced.

“Trading by both countries is relatively balanced because the UK exports about four billion pounds sterling worth of goods and services to Nigeria while Nigeria exports to the UK about three billion pounds worth of goods .

“We need to do more because if you look at last year’s figure compared to the penultimate, there was not much of an increase in trade volume.

“It was an increase of about two per cent. So trade in the last few years has changed.

“And the aim of our enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership is to boost trade and investment between both countries and also to raise these numbers.

“Nigeria can benefit and take advantage of a new post-Brexit trading agreement that the UK has put in place that is called the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

“This scheme called the DCTS is one of the most generous schemes in the world in the sense that it removes tariffs on thousands of products from across the world to make free trade easier,” he said.

The envoy said that having visited many parts of Nigeria, the UK realised that Nigeria had at least 3,000, tariff-free products that it could export to the UK.

According to him, the enhanced trade investment partnership signed between the two countries in February is aimed at attracting more investment to the agric sector.

He said Nigeria could boost trade with UK by exporting more of its agric products.

“In agricultural exports, Nigeria can export cashew, cotton, or cocoa from the middle belt.

“There are lots of commercial farmers involved in vegetables, which can be processed, and there is also timber.

“And we think that there’s a big potential for commercial agriculture in the future in Nigeria. You have the land you have the people.

“The new trading scheme should be an opportunity for Nigeria. We can do more in financial and legal services,” he said.

He said that there were new technologies coming into the financial services sector which will greatly enhance the sector.

He added that Nigeria has a huge creative industry which the UK recognises and is interested in.

“London is a good place for partnerships in the creative industry. So we are hoping to promote those areas through partnership,” he said.

He said that two challenges of doing business in the UK that foreigners needed to take cognizance of were lack of knowledge on how to do business and also the standards (non tariff barriers to trade).

He stated that a facility called the growth gateway run by the Department of Business and Trade was provided as a source of advice for anyone that intends to export to the UK.

“When you go onto the internet and search for UK Department for Business and Trade, you will access the growth gateway page where you will get information on trade, depending on what sector you are in. There’s even a page for Nigeria.

“In the area of standards , if you want to sell some products in the UK, there are safety standards you have to meet, and you will have a certification. Nigeria has its own certification.

“And Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is working with UK standards organisation to reconcile standards or enable them to certify for the UK market to help ease trade,” he said .

Montgomery added that he was optimistic that the UK would do more trade in Nigeria because of the bold reforms by the Nigerian government.

He applauded the removal of the “crippling fuel subsidy”, tackling oil theft, getting oil revenues that manage the budget better, and also the foreign exchange reforms.

He said that those were critical in encouraging UK investors and banks to come back into the Nigerian market and do more trade, noting that the foreign exchange reforms were absolutely critical in this sense.

“You all know that the foreign exchange system in the past chased away investors because it is difficult to get your exchange done and you do not know whether you will be able to move money across borders.

” But the new exchange rates policy under this government and the very impressive Central Bank of Nigeria leadership team is making investors to say they can come back and invest in the country,” he said (NAN) (www.nan.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Emmanuel Yashim

ACCI tasks officials on prosperity of business community

ACCI tasks officials on prosperity of business community

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By Lucy Ogalue

The President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Emeka Obegolu, has charged its newly inaugurated Governing council members to ensure prosperity of Nigeria’s business community.

Obegolu, represented by his 1st Deputy President, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, said this while inaugurating the Governing Council of ACCI’s Four Centres in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inaugurated officials would be responsible to drive affairs of the centres.

The centres include: “the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce Dispute Resolution Centre (NCC-DRC) to be chaired by Prince Adetokunbo Kayode and Mr Patrick Ikwueto, as vice-chairman.

“The BEST Centre, with Prof Adesoji Adesugba as Chairman and Mr Ezenwa Anumnu as his vice-chairman.

“The Abuja Trade Centre (ATC) is chaired by Dr Johnson Anene, and Mr Abiodun Odusanwo is his vice-chairman.

“The National Policy Advocacy Centre (NPAC) has Dr Aliyu Hong as chairman while Mr Dozie Mbanefo is serving as his vice-chairman.”

Obegolu emphasised the transformative potential of these centres in shaping the business landscape not only in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) but also across Nigeria.

“The Centres will play a major role in promoting international trade, resolving commercial disputes, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, and advocating conducive business policies.

“I urge the newly inaugurated leaders to leverage their expertise and networks to drive the success of these Centres, thereby, contributing to the overall prosperity of the business community.”

Responding on behalf of the officials, the chairman of Abuja Trade Centre expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

Anene pledged the commitment of the officials to the development and success of the various centres.

The inauguration of the Governing Councils marks a significant step in ACCI’s mission to create a vibrant and resilient business environment, driving sustainable growth and prosperity for all stakeholders. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Navigating the path to sustainable organisational success: insights from Lagos leadership programme

Navigating the path to sustainable organisational success: insights from Lagos leadership programme

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By Razak Owolabi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In a world characterized by rapid change and uncertainty, the pursuit of sustainable organizational success has become more than just a lofty aspiration—it has become a strategic imperative.

 

Recognizing this reality, leaders from across industries converged in Lagos for the TEXEM, UK Executive Development Programme titled “Strategies for Sustainable Organisational Success,” led by the esteemed Prof. John Peters.

Peters is a former prisoner of War and Chair of the Association of MBAs that accredits London Business School and Harvard.

Dr Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM also delivered part of the executive development programme.

The two-day programme, organised by TEXEM, UK held on April 24 and 25, was meticulously crafted to equip executives with the tools, insights, and strategies needed to navigate turbulent times and thrive amidst uncertainty.

From building a solid foundation for success to fostering innovation and resilience, the agenda was designed to address the key challenges facing organizations in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Day One commenced with a focus on laying the groundwork for sustainable success.

 

During this TEXEM programme, participants delved into the importance of sustainable success in today’s business environment and explored the transformative power of pressure as a catalyst for innovation.

Through engaging discussions and real-world case studies, they gained valuable insights into leading through crisis and leveraging challenges as opportunities for organisational excellence.

As the day unfolded, the programme fostered opportunities for networking, informal discussions, and collaborative problem-solving—a testament to the interactive and participatory nature of the learning experience.

 

From panel sessions to strategic games, participants were challenged to think critically, collaborate effectively, and apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.

Day Two built upon the foundation laid on the first day, focusing on building a winning culture, innovation, resilience, and risk management.

Participants explored the role of culture and innovation in driving sustainable success and learned to harness the power of organizational culture for strategic advantage.

 

Through immersive activities and group discussions, they developed a deeper understanding of resilience and risk management, equipping them to navigate uncertainty with confidence and poise.

The programme culminated in the presentation of certificates—a symbolic gesture marking the participants’ commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

As they reflected on their journey over the past two days, it was evident that they had not only gained new skills and insights but had also forged meaningful connections with fellow executives.

This ultimately fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration that would extend beyond the confines of the programme.

The Executive Development Programme “Strategies for Sustainable Organisational Success” served as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for leaders committed to driving positive change and achieving enduring success.

 

As participants returned to their respective organizations, they did so armed with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper understanding of sustainable strategic leadership, and a shared commitment to building a brighter future for their organizations and communities alike.

In the words of TEXEM’s founder, Abubakre, “True success is not measured by what we achieve individually but by the lasting impact we create collectively.

“Together, let us chart a course towards sustainable success—one that empowers, inspires, and transforms lives for generations to come”.

 

In his own comment, Peters said “in the turbulent seas of today’s business landscape, sustainable success is not merely a goal but a necessity.

 

“Through strategic innovation, decisive problem-solving and competent leadership, TEXEM, UK has been able to inspire participants to navigate the waves of uncertainty, transforming crisis into opportunity, and charting a course towards enduring success”.

Testimonials from the participants lauded the rich and thought-provoking content of the programme, among whom is Nafisa Ibrahim, Manager, Internal Audit, NNPC Pension Fund Limited.

 

“It’s been two days of very impactful learning for me. I must say that as an ardent believer in personal and professional development, I have attended a lot of trainings and courses.

“But TEXEM stands out. They deliver this course excellently. One thing that stands out for me is the fact that they assembled very interesting, exceptional and sufficient activities into all of the learnings.

“And with this, I know that it will be very hard for us to forget. It’s all about impact and implementation,” Ibrahim said.

 

Muhammed Gwadabe, President of, the Association of Bureau de Change Operators of Nigerian, another participant in the programme also spoke.

 

“I’ve learned a lot. I’ve seen where tradition is being converted to modernity… I’ve learned how to keep sustainability.

“I have learned teamwork. I have learned different strategy tools from Marshmallow, from OODA, observation of my opponents, orienting my business, making decisions and acting fast.

 

“I’ve also learned the importance of balancing culture with my organizational objective,” Gwadabe said.

As the sun sets on another successful TEXEM, UK programme, it is time Nigerian leaders look forward to the continued journey of growth, resilience, and transformation that lies ahead. (NANFeatures)

 

**If used, please credit the writer as well as News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Film on Nigeria’s electricity sector, ‘Up NEPA’ premieres in FCT

Film on Nigeria’s electricity sector, ‘Up NEPA’ premieres in FCT

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By Joshua Olomu

‘Up NEPA’, a documentary film that explores the challenges of electricity supply in Nigeria is set for premiere in the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) on May 9.

Ishaya Bako, ace Nollyood filmmaker and Director of the film, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

According to him, the documentary probes the persistent issues surrounding electricity in Nigeria, such as unreliable power supply and its impact on individuals, Businesses and the economy.

Bako said the acclaimed documentary is produced by Griot Studios, a multimedia company that specialises in producing and distributing content with socio-cultural relevance.

He said “Up NEPA” features special guest stars including veteran Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw and ace rapper Jude Abaga, popularly known as MI.

According to the Director, the film features interviews with everyday people, including cold store owners in Ibadan, plastics manufacturers in Aba and Kano, and healthcare workers in Lagos.

He added that industry experts such as Patrick Okigbo, Bart Nnaji, Alex Okoh, and Rahila Thomas and other stakeholders were also interviewed in the project.

“I am grateful to be able to share this film with an audience, it’s been many years in the making.

“The documentary provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges of providing adequate and sustained electrical power to Nigeria’s growing population despite being one of the world’s largest primary energy producers.

“It also examines the historical changes and government reforms within the power sector while anticipating future developments.

“The film is scheduled to premiere on the 9th of May 2024 in Abuja and will subsequently be available for free on the film’s website.

“I am particularly grateful to the MacArthur Foundation, for their support in producing the film, and our hardworking team at Griot Studios, who have persevered to ensure this project becomes a reality,” he said.

Bako, renowned for directing award-winning documentaries like “Fueling Poverty” and “Silent Tears,” said the documentary’s release is in partnership with ‘The Electricity Hub.’

He explained that the premiere will include an interactive session between industry stakeholders and special guests to chart a common front towards proffering possible solutions to the lingering electricity challenges in the country.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Commission urges airlines to protect rights of PWD

Commission urges airlines to protect rights of PWD

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By Maureen Okon

The Anambra Disability Rights Commission has called on local airlines to protect the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWD).

Mr Chukwuka Ezewuzie , the commission’s chairman, made the plea at a press conference in Abuja on Friday.

He alleged that some local airlines had been discriminating against PWD with impunity.

Ezewuzie cited an incident, which involved him in 2019, where an airliner insisted that he must produce a travel companion before he could board a plane from Abuja to Anambra.

Ironically, the chairman said, he boarded the same airline to Abuja without a companion for the conference he attended.

” I told them that i have travelled alone unsupervised to 21 countries through 50 airports around the world, without a travel companion, they refused to allow me travel alone.

” This caused me to spend more money in securing another ticket with a different airline that did not require a travel companion,” he said.

Ezewuzie said the purpose of the press conference was to draw the attention of local airlines to the special needs of PWD.

” It is also to call on the airlines to respect the federal laws, respect the provisions of the international convention of the rights of PWD community.

” To respect the resolution of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that is the umbrella organisation for all the airlines around the world.

” Also, we want the domestic airlines in Nigeria to pay attention to the law of the land, to the needs of PWD community and to the rule of the organisation they subscribe to,’’ he said.

The chairman called on stakeholders to work assiduously toward eliminating all forms of barriers to accessing air transportation by PWD.

” The World Health Organisation has estimated that more than 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability, which constitutes approximately 16 per cent of the world’s population.

” The airline commitment to accessible air transport was reaffirmed at the 2019 IATA Annual General Meeting , when IATA members approved a Resolution on PWD community.

” The UN Convention on the rights of PWD community requires its parties to take appropriate measures , so that PWD community have access.

“They should have access on an equal basis with others, to the physical environment, to transportation and others, both in the urban and rural areas,’’ he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nabilu Balarabe/Ifeyinwa Omowole

Presidential aide, CSO advocate technological empowerment for youths

Presidential aide, CSO advocate technological empowerment for youths

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By Diana Omueza

Mrs Titilope Gbadamosi, Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Youth Initiatives, and PROMAD Foundation have harped on the need for technological empowerment of youths to boost their participation in governance.

They made the call on Thursday in Abuja at the 2024 close-out ceremony of the Accelerating Youth Participation in Governance (AYPG2024) Fellowship.

The fellowship’s theme is “Rethinking Youth Participation in Governance in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by PROMAD Foundation and supported by LEAP-Africa and the Nigerian Youth Future Fund( NYFF).

Gbadamosi said that Nigerian youths in the country and those in diaspora had common objective of improving the state of the country and needed to leverage technology to achieve the feat.

“The driving force behind the youths abroad is same for the youths in the country; regardless of locations we have a common tie that bonds us by heart.

“Those who are abroad and those who are in Nigeria, we all want a better Nigeria and we are all working towards that.

“Especially the young people who are very active in governance, just as those who are here are passionate about Nigeria.

“Those who are abroad are equally passionate about Nigeria, because there is no place like home,” she said.

Gbadamosi, while congratulating the successful fellows, urged them to downscale the knowledge gained and to take up the front seats on matters of leadership, political participation and governance.

She added that President Tinubu was working to ensure more inclusion and representation of youths in his government.

According to her, President Tinubu strongly believes Nigeria can only be built by the fire and steam of young people’s participation.

This, she said, was why the administration had prioritised the youths more than any other government and the President was fulfilling his campaign manifesto.

Mr Daisi Omokungbe, the Executive Director of PROMAD, said that the AYPG2024 was to enhance youth’s understanding on the use of Artificial Intelligence and its impacts in leadership, political participation and governance.

“AI is very important from the aspect of the youth who are agents and enablers of new technology and that is why we took this fellowship from this aspect.

“What we have done today is that we have brought 18 young leaders from the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory and we have trained them on participation in governance.

“The training and the insight of the keynote speaker and the panelist today has also shown how we can harness technology in terms of data, analysing fake news and for better informed decisions making,” he said.

Mrs Maimuna Sani, the Representative of the Nigeria Youth Future Fund (NYFF), congratulated the foundation for the initiative to train and coach youths on the importance of their participation in governance.

According to her, the AYPG2024 fellowship underscored our commitment to strengthen youth participation in governance, to activate, amplify and mainstream youths’ voices into policies conversations.

“I urge you all to apply the knowledge gained from this fellowship, to hold and engage your elected policy makers and representatives to ensure that you are included in government plans, policies and programmes,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other speakers at the event were Mr Hamzat Lawal, Executive Director of CODE, and Mr Kole Shettima, Country Director of MacArthur Foundation.

Others are Mr Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, and Dr J. K. Naiyeju, former Accountant General of the Federation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

FMBN inaugurates new performance assessment system for staffers

FMBN inaugurates new performance assessment system for staffers

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By Angela Atabo/Okon Okon

The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) on Thursday inaugurated the newly introduced workers performance assessment scheme, tagged Performance Management System (PMS)

The News Agency of Nigeria reports PMS replaces Annual Performance Evaluation Report (APER), a form filled manually by civil servants to access their performance for progression.

The Federal Government had in 2023, introduced the new evaluation system PMS, replacing APER, to assess civil servants’ performances across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Inaugurating a team to implement the new scheme, Mr Shehu Osidi, Managing Director of FMBN, said its members would serve as mentors, facilitators and advocates for the implementation of PMS in the bank.

Osidi tasked the team called, Performance Management Champions (PMS) to lead by example, inspire others to embrace a growth mindset, set ambitious goals, and continuously seek opportunities for learning and development.

He said the bank recognised the critical importance of performance management and had commenced the journey of ensuring accurate assessment of its workers before they received the circular for PMS.

The FMBN boss laud the efforts of Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF) for the introduction of PMS and the level of preparedness of each MDAs for the its implementation.

Earlier, Mr Rikko Owitti, who represented Yemi-Esan at the event said the Champions were the eyes of the Office of the HOCSF in all the MDAs, to perfect the implementation of the PMS

Rikko, the Chief Administration Officer (Infrastructure) Performance Management Department, Office of the HOCSF, said the Champions will be at the centre of the whole process and develop job descriptions in various departments.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chidinma Agu/Rotimi Ijikanmi

Nigeria Customs inaugurates advance ruling system to improve trade

Nigeria Customs inaugurates advance ruling system to improve trade

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By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Thursday inaugurated its Advance Ruling System to enhance trade facilitation in Abuja.

It has also organised stakeholders` engagement to foster mutual understanding of its programmes and to facilitate the rollout of the system.

Speaking at the event, the Comptroller General (C-G) of NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, said that the move was aimed at creating a more transparent and predictable business environment for its stakeholders.

Adeniyi described advanced ruling as a critical mechanism that allows traders obtain binding decisions from customs administrations on the classification, origin and valuation of goods before importation.

“This tool is essential for promoting trade facilitation, reducing compliance costs and fostering a conducive business environment, “he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the joint sponsorship by the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation and the European Union-World Customs Organisations (EU-WCO) Rules of Origin (RoO) Africa Programme for NCS personnel training in January on advance ruling skills for rules of origin.

NAN also reports that both the World Customs Organisation and the World Trade Organisation have emphasised the significance of advance ruling in facilitating international trade and promoting customs compliance by aiding traders in making informed business decisions.

The C-G described the launch of the system as timely, aligning with the policy directive of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to facilitate ease of trade for legitimate traders.

“This is reflected in the Policy Advisory Document of the government, which highlights recent achievements, such as the approval to decongest the ports and make them free and accessible for importers and operators.

“Additionally, the recent inauguration of the Single Window steering committee by the President underscores high-level commitment to enhancing trade facilitation in Nigeria, “ he said.

He added that the implementation was also timely, particularly considering the significant number of disputes the service had to handle between 2020 and 2023.

According to him, out of the 34 disputes, 31 have been resolved, while three cases are still pending.

“Additionally, in spite of the absence of a structured mechanism, a total of 296 requests for Tariff opinions were received, with 266 processed and 30 pending.

“It is crucial to note that the absence of this mechanism has implications beyond Trade Facilitation, as it also impacts our revenue, “he said.

He said that the service would organise workshops and sensitisation sessions at its Area Commands to ensure the successful implementation and to ensure stakeholders` understanding for effective use.

The C-G said he had given approval for the development of a handbook to provide guidance to traders and customs officers, and also to ensure consistency and transparency in the service`s rulings.

He thanked the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) for supporting its commitment to facilitate ease of trade.

Earlier in his remarks, the Country Director of GIZ, Dr Markus Wagner, said that the advance ruling system was part of the Nigeria Energy Support Programme, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Represented by Duke Benjamin, the Cluster Coordinator for GIZ Nigeria Programmes on Just Transition and Inclusion, he said the knowledge provided by the advance ruling would facilitate improvement in investments in Nigeria.

He added this was due to the clarity it brought on trade processes. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Former VC, other Osun indigenes, mourn renowned agricultural scientist

Former VC, other Osun indigenes, mourn renowned agricultural scientist

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By Abigael Joshua

A former Vice Chancellor, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Prof. Razaq Abubakre has joined other Osun prominent indigenes in mourning fellow indigene, Dr Oluremi Atanda (OFR), agricultural scientist and first PhD holder in Iwoland.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Abubakre said the deceased was a multi-talented scholar and a true lover of Iwo, his home town, who was the founder of the proposed Oluremi Ademola Atanda University, Ikire-Ile in Iwoland.

He recalled that Atanda as founder, had just appointed him, Abubakre as Chairman of the Committee for the new university with his first son, Prof. Olusegun Atanda who served as secretary, before he passed on.

“Work on the proposed University got to advanced stage with the University master plan, University law and the University curriculum which were all fully ready for submission to the NUC.

“The only impediment to advance was the constraint posed by the land vendors to getting the required 250 hectares.

“The NUC team came to inspect the existing structure on ground at the proposed mini campus in Ibadan and they were satisfied with the facilities. The team also visited the proposed main campus land which was found to be good but inadequate,” Abubakre said.

He expressed the hope that the wish of Atanda for the proposed private university would be achievable in his memory.

Other Osun indigenes also paid tributes to the deceased.

“A sobering panegyric for the late leader and elder. May the soul of our much-celebrated and famous leader, Dr. Oluremi Atanda rest in peace. Amen. Eternal rest grant him oh Lord and may light more perpetual shine on him,” says Alh. Abdulyekin Abilagbo

“What a great loss to us. Pa Atanda was a loving mentor. I always visit him in Ibadan until he retired. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Pa Dr. Atanda came, saw and conquered. Glory be to God,” says Prof. Abiodun Sanni.

“Let me join others in expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, admirers of Pa Dr. Oluremi Atanda. He was a brilliant scientist, an astute administrator and a successful entrepreneur.

“Pa Atanda was a kind, compassionate and frank role model. My first encounter with him was in 1976, when I joined a group of temporary teachers to protest the non-payment of our August 1976 salary.

“He was Chairman, Osun South Teachers Service Board then. We visited him at NCRI, Moor Plantation, Ibadan where he was Director. He received us very warmly and explained the meaning of temporary appointments to us, hinting that they could be terminated without any notice! Eventually, Baba advised us to stop protesting and gave us transport money.

“His death is a loss too many for all Iwo people. Our consolation is that he led a fruitful life. May God Almighty grant him eternal rest and grant us all the grace to bear the irreparable loss. Ameen,” says Prof. Wahid Hassan.

Dr. Oluremi Atanda was a Nigerian agricultural scientist, administrator and holder of the Nigeria’s Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).

Born on September 22, 1939, in Iwo, Osun State, Atanda attended Amin Training Centre, a foremost Quranic school in Iwo until 1946.

He started his primary education in 1946 at the Baptist Day School, Oke Odo, in Iwo and graduated in 1952.

For his secondary school education, he attended Molusi College, Ijebu Igbo. After his higher school certificate examination in 1958 at the Government College, Ibadan, he proceeded to study Agricultural Science at the University of Nottingham in England.

He subsequently earned his PhD at the University of Newcastle, UK at a very relatively young age and he was the first Iwo indigene to bag a PhD.

He began his research career at the West Africa Cocoa Research Institute in Ibadan in 1964, and worked there until 1972 when he joined the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria.

In 1975, he left the council to serve as the Director of the Federal Department of Agriculture.

Between 1976 and 1979, Atanda worked with the National Cereals Research Institute.

He later worked as the Director of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria between 1979 and 1980.

Between 1980 and 1983, he was the Chairman of the Oyo State Civil Service Commission.

He has also consulted for other bodies including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation.

He was on the board of trustees of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, between 1976 and 1978.

After serving as a member of National Committee on Subsidies to Nigeria Agriculture between 1986 and 1987, Atanda retired from the public service after nearly 25 years.

An educationalist par excellence, Atanda was the proprietor of Atanda Group of Schools.

Until his death on March 4, 2024, Dr. Atanda was the Eketa Oba of Iwoland and Ekerin (Prime Minister) of Ikire -Ile and he was also the immediate past President of Iwo Board of Trustees. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Razak Owolabi

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