NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Economy/Business

NEC ratifies Board of NSIA Ratification

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Economic Council (NEC), on Thursday ratified the Board of Directors of the Nigeria Sovereign Wealth Investment Authority (NSIA).

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, made this known while briefing newsmen at the end of NEC chaired by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NSIA is an independent investment institution, set up to manage Nigeria’s Sovereign Wealth Fund in excess of budgeted hydrocarbon revenues.

It also plays a leading role in driving sustained economic development for the benefit of all Nigerians by building a savings base for the Nigerian people.

Bagudu stated that the council received presentation on the financial statement of affairs of the NSIA and gave its approval

The minister, said the council commended the board and management of the NSIA for their efforts.

Bagudu also said that NEC received presentation from the Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Physical Commission on alternative funding revenue for the commission.

“The council noted the mandate of the institution and its critical role in ensuring equatable distribution of resources.

” It however disclosed that there is challenge of inadequate funding which severely constraints its capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional duty.

” The implications of the underfunding were discussed and the council resolved and appreciated the challenge being faced by the commission.

“The council directed the secretariat to study the submission as regards to the quantum presented by the commission as well as the legality of request,” he said.

NAN recalled that the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, in August inaugurated the new Board of Directors for the NSIA tasked with the critical mandate of steering the nation’s economic growth and stability

The minister had charged the board members to leverage their expertise and wealth of experience to bear in driving the NSIA’s mission of creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

The appointed Board of Directors for the NSIA comprises distinguished professionals from various sectors, carefully selected through deliberations and recommendations made by the Executive Nominations Committee.

The final approval was given by President Bola Tinubu, following endorsement by the Vice President who serves as the Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC).

The new Board Members include: Mr Segun Ogunsanya – Chairman, Mr Aminu Umar-Sadiq – Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu and Mr Abdullahi Gaya.

Others are Mr Ahmed Goniri, Ms. Ada Osakwe, Dr Suleyman Ndanusa, Ms Ijeoma Taylaur and Mr Kola Owodunni. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Metro

FG to establish national youth development bank

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Federal Government on Tuesday revealed plan to establish a National Youth Development Bank and a Youth Data Bank.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by his vice, Kashim Shettima, disclosed this at a Stakeholders Roundtable on Northern Youth Development organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, in Abuja,

The President described the banks as crucial tools for “providing financial and informational support to young Nigerians.”

He said since assumption of office, his administration unveiled a comprehensive youth development strategy spanning multiple key sectors to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Tinubu extolled the legacy of the late Sardauna of Sokoto and former Premier of Northern Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello

” The late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, was one of the towering giants on whose shoulders we have ascended as a nation.

” His vision was clear: the North cannot progress in isolation, and Nigeria cannot prosper unless every part of this nation thrives,” he said.

Tinubu declared that the development of Northern Nigeria remains fundamental to the nation’s prosperity.

According to him, “whatever disrupts the growth of one region sets back the entire nation.

“For far too long, we have been taunted as a nation with the most children out of school—a reality that should not elicit pride but provoke urgent action.

“This alarming statistic has turned the promise of our population into a challenge rather than the dividend it ought to be,” he added.

Tinubu re-echoed his administration’s pioneering youth development initiatives, including the three million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters.

“Our creative and digital economy is another goldmine,” the President said, outlining programmes such as the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP).

He listed other programmes to include the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for higher education access, Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) for digital entrepreneurship.

They also included, Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) for global market participation, Youth Enterprise Clusters for business development, and the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme to address accommodation needs.

On agriculture, the President said that investments in the sector and industrialisation would further position the North as Nigeria’s foremost agricultural hub.

Addressing the region’s security challenges, Tinubu further outlined measures “to restore stability to the North.

” The measures include strengthening community policing, rehabilitating displaced persons, and addressing cross-border challenges like smuggling and insurgency.”

He emphasised the urgency of the moment, saying ” By 2050, Nigeria will become the third-largest nation globally, with three-quarters of our citizens under the age of 21.

“Our challenge here is to engineer a transition towards a federation defined by order, stability, and safety,” he added, noting that “this task is both urgent and achievable.”

The President also made a direct challenge to young Nigerians: “You are not just the future of this nation—you are its present.

” Your energy, ideas, and determination are already shaping our policies and programmes.”

“Our commitment is to provide you with the skill set and opportunities to thrive in a competitive world”.

He assured that the administration would unlock the potential of the Nigerian youth, ensuring that their dreams transform the country into an enduring symbol of democracy, development, and progress.

Speaking in the same vein, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, emphasised the critical role of youth education in national development.

‘ Our youths are the foundation of any development we envisage in our society. They are not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today,” he said.

The Sultan further highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue with the youth, stating that “forums like this must be held continuously to dialogue with our youths across the northern states.”

He emphasised the primacy of education, asserting that it “is the strongest legacy any leader can leave to society.

“Without education, you are a nobody. I believe in infrastructural development like roads and bridges but more money should be spent educating our children.

“That is why we need to dwell more on how we can ensure that our children are educated.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the foundation’s Board of Trustees, Muazu Babangida, noted that the event marked the foundation’s 15th anniversary.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Metro

‘Seek robust solutions to northern problems’, Tinubu to leaders

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday urged Northern leaders to seek robust solutions to the numerous challenges confronting the region.

Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, made the call at a stakeholders’ roundtable on Northern Nigerian Youth Development, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Abuja.

The theme of the roundtable was ‘Empowering the Next Generation: Strategies for Sustainable Youth Development in Northern Nigeria’.

He said that the legacies of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of Northern Nigeria, reinforced the conviction that the development of the North is central to the prosperity of Nigeria.

According to the President, Nigeria cannot prosper unless every part of the country thrives.

“Whatever disrupts the growth of one region sets back the entire nation.

“Unless we as leaders wear our thinking caps and come up with robust solutions to Northern Nigeria’s problems, it is not beyond us. It is not rocket science; we can do it.

“This is why we prioritise initiatives such as the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Commission, which collaborates with all levels of government to ensure that every child has access to quality education.

“For the dividends of democracy to reach every corner of our nation, we must empower local governments to serve as pipelines of governance.

“This is why we have prioritised Local Government Autonomy, enabling them to receive their full entitlements and improve primary education funding.

“But governance is a shared responsibility, and citizens must hold their leaders accountable to ensure that every child is given a fighting chance,” Tinubu added.

Tinubu urged Northerners, especially the youth, to imbibe the spirit of tolerance, work, and worship as embraced by the late Sardauna of Sokoto.

He said that the energy, creativity, and ingenuity of Nigerian youth offer the chance to not only transform Nigeria, but also to lead Africa into a new era of growth and innovation.

“The challenge we must confront with urgency, compassion, and resolve is investing in the education of our younger ones. Either we take care of them, or they will take care of us down the line.

“We can afford to send our wards to private schools, but the children of the poor that we leave behind will certainly chase us out of this land,” Tinubu said.

Earlier, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), advised governments at all levels to increase funding for education.

“Let’s see how we can help our children, take them off the street, build schools, bring qualified teachers, and involve traditional leaders across the country to really sit with the people and discuss some of these issues,” he said.

The Sultan commended the Federal Government for establishing the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Commission, describing it as a crucial initiative.

“The commission has been going around, talking to us. All of us must work together to ensure this commission achieves its goals,” he said.

Also, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, Muazu Babangida, explained that the foundation was established to promote good governance in the country.

“Over the past 15 years, the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has made significant strides in fulfilling its mandate of promoting sustainable development and social progress in Northern Nigeria, particularly in education,” he said.

Babangida added that the roundtable was organised to find a lasting solution to youth restiveness and the increasing number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria.

He urged the government to take the recommendations from the discussions seriously for the progress and well-being of the region.

The roundtable was attended by serving and former governors, executives of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), leaders of youth organisations, and other critical stakeholders in Nigeria. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Metro

Nigeria, India vow spike in economic, defence, other ties

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their commitment to a robust strategic partnership.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that both countries also pledged to strengthen ties in key areas including economic development, defence, healthcare and food security, among others.

This is contained in a joint statement issued on Sunday in Abuja at the conclusion of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu.

NAN reports that the Indian prime minister received a formal welcome, including a 21-artillery gun salute at the Presidential Villa.

Tinubu and Modi went into a tete-a-tete, and later jointly presided over an expanded bilateral and political talks.

During their bilateral discussion, the two leaders agreed to a greater collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing.

With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, they also agreed to coordinated actions to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy.

The two countries pledged to continue regular naval exercises and joint anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea to safeguard critical maritime routes.

‘” The leaders reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including the cross-border movement of terrorists and terror financing networks and safe havens.

‘” They called for zero tolerance to terrorism and expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International terrorism in the UN Framework.

“They also called for the implementation of the UNGA and the UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.

”It was agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter terrorism,” the joint statement said.

Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernisation efforts, highlighting India’s emergence as a trusted defence manufacturer.

Similarly, the two leaders also highlighted the vibrant economic relationship between India and Nigeria, with India positioned as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant contributor to its economy.

Nigeria commended the contributions of over 200 Indian companies operating in the country, which have generated substantial employment and investment opportunities.

On bilateral trade expansion, both leaders directed their officials to finalise pending agreements.

” These include the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA), Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), to boost trade and investment.

” The fruitification of some of the investments” agreed to by the Indian companies during the visit of President Tinubu to India in September 2023, and committed to facilitating early finalization of the remaining investments.

On the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit held from September 9th-10th, 2023, in New Delhi, the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Business Conference had taken place.

During the conference, Indian investors pledged a combined total of over $14 billion across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy.

The investments were targeted on industrialisation, energy, telecommunications, and defence sectors

On infrastructure Development, the joint statement added that India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development priorities through concessional Lines of credit and technical expertise.

On energy, Nigeria and India agreed on long-term contracts for crude oil and LNG supply and technical support in pipeline transmission security, CNG conversion and LPG bottling distribution.

The two leaders also discussed broader collaboration on food security and agriculture, health, education, and cultural exchanges.

Also, on food security, the leaders agreed that it remains a priority for developing countries especially with bigger populations.

”Nigeria thanked India for providing the necessary concessions sought for in the supply of rice at the time of their need.

”They agreed to enhance collaboration in the area of agriculture from agricultural machinery, high yield seeds to sharing technical expertise, know-how and technologies and agreed to identify ways of cooperation in these areas.

”The Indian side thanked the Nigerian side for supporting the Indian Resolution at the UN to declare 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

” And agreed to increase collaboration between India and Nigeria in the area of Millets, ” the joint statement said.

On healthcare sector, Nigeria and India pledged to deepen their collaboration focusing on the establishment of hospitals and diagnostic centers, as well as the deployment of innovative health management systems.

Both sides acknowledged the ongoing efforts by Indian hospitals operating in Nigeria and highlighted the vast potential for further collaboration to enhance healthcare delivery across the country.

The Indian Government offered to share its CoWIN digital platform, an open-source health management infrastructure that has revolutionised vaccination campaigns and health data management in India.

It said, ” This system is expected to support Nigeria’s healthcare system by improving the efficiency and accessibility of vaccination programs and other health initiatives. ”

The Indian government also extended its commitment to supply high-quality generic pharmaceutical products to Nigeria at economical rates under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme.

The scheme is a campaign launched by India’s Department of Pharmaceuticals to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses.

The statement said,” The initiative is aimed at making essential medicines more affordable, particularly for vulnerable populations, and supporting Nigerian public hospital procurement processes.”

Nigeria and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration on education, cultural exchanges, and fostering strong people-to-people contacts, building on longstanding historical ties and mutual aspirations.

India was acknowledged as a significant partner in Nigeria’s human resource development through various scholarship programs, including the eVBAB scheme, which facilitates virtual learning opportunities.

Both sides agreed to work together to encourage more Nigerian students to leverage these scholarship programmes.

Tinubu and Modi applauded the vibrant cultural and academic exchanges between the two nations, which have included visits by cultural troupes, participation in film and literary festivals, and other collaborative activities.

They underscored the importance of further widening these exchanges to promote mutual understanding and shared heritage.

The leaders recognised the role of tourism in enhancing people-to-people connections and emphasised the need to explore opportunities for promoting travel and cultural interaction between Nigeria and India.

On working together through its membership in international organisations, India commended Nigeria for its reciprocal support of non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for 2028-2029.

The two countries reiterated their joint commitment to UN Security Council reform and mutual support for permanent and non-permanent memberships.

They also pledged cooperation on regional peace and security, particularly in West Africa.

Nigeria ‘took note’ of India’s invitation to join the Global Biofuel Alliance and Global Rivers Cities Alliance.

It said, ”As members of International Solar Alliance (ISA), both sides agreed to intensify their cooperation in establishing solar parks and to work towards increasing the share of the renewable energy in their energy portfolio.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Environment

Adoption of conflict sensitive climate action crucial for  lasting peace – Stakeholders 

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By Angela Atabo/Emmanuel Oloniruha

Stakeholders in the peace-building, humanitarian and development space have emphasised the need to integrate climate sensitive approaches into resolving conflicts in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the stakeholders unanimously agreed to this approach at the inaugural meeting of Nigeria Conflict Sensitivity and Climate Adaptation Facility (NC-SAF) on Thursday in Abuja.

NAN also reports that the meeting was organised by International Alert, with support from Irish Aid.

According to the stakeholders, climate-sensitive conflict action prioritises understanding and addresses the interconnections between climate change and conflicts.

They stated that by adopting climate-sensitive adaptation, Nigeria could mitigate climate-related conflicts, promote sustainable peace and development as well as enhance sustainable peace in vulnerable communities.

The Country Director for International Alert, Dr Paul Nyulaku-Bemshima, said the meeting brought together a range of stakeholders to discuss the existential issues of insecurity facing Nigeria.

According to Nyulaku-Bemshima, Irish Aid is supporting International Alert to implement the “Powering Peace Through Climate Actions.”

This, he said, was because climate change was impacting communities, drying up grazing areas, making farming difficult and affecting food security, with productivity going down.

“As a result, the competition between occupational groups, such as headers and farmers, is increasing, becoming more intense and escalating conflicts in different parts of the country.

“Most conflicts in Nigeria are resource-based conflicts and so by that, we need to look at the issue of conflict and insecurity from a climate lens.

“This is because if we fail to do that, then the very drivers of the insecurity that we see will continue to fester,” he said.

Nyulaku-Bemshima said the banditry and insecurity in the north-west zone was impacting communities being influenced by climate change issues.

He said that most headers were moving south in search of grazing areas, thus creating tensions in those areas, such as the farmer-header conflicts.

According to him, the crises are being driven by climate change, thus necessitating the need to ask critical questions around insecurity and humanitarian development.

He said that a joint strategy would be required to address those issues at the national, state and community levels.

He called for conflict-sensitive policy-making to recognise the drivers of conflicts and respond to them.

Also speaking, Mr Dapo Oyewole, Senior Special Assistant to the President on International Cooperation, commended International Alert for the initiative.

He said that the Federal Government was committed to tackling the effects of climate change, which he described as a “global problem”.

He said that it required a holistic approach by government, civil society, international development community, and the citizens to find lasting solutions.

“Climate change tops the President Bola Tinubu administration’s agenda, with efforts focused on creating an enabling environment for prosperity, peace and security,” he said.

Oyewole said to tackle climate change, government had set up initiatives and interventions to bring critical stakeholders together by providing resources to chat the way forward.

Dr Kimaris Toogood, Peace and Development Advisor, Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, stressed the importance of recognising the role conflict sensitive approach played in the work of climate peace and security.

“By that I mean that the root of addressing and responding to climate change and conflict induced by climate change comes from understanding the root causes.

“It is only if we diagnose or understand the conflict correctly that our response will be able to be accurate, sustainable and resilient,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

Entertainment

Queen Oronsen’s epic story set for stage in Lagos

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By Taiye Olayemi

Nollywood actress, Damipe Adekoya, has revealed plans to bring the extraordinary life of legendary Queen Moore Oronsen to the stage, to celebrate African women’s resilience and hardworking nature.

Adekoya, the Chief Executive Officer of Zevicar Productions, disclosed this at a news conference in Lagos.

She said the play, put together to depict the life and times of the legendary queen, is entitled “Moore Oronsen (The Mystical Queen)”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Queen Oronsen is a deity from Yoruba mythology, who was the spouse of Olowo Rerengejen, the traditional ruler of Owo Kingdom in Ondo state, over 600 years ago.

The annual Igogo Festival in Owo is celebrated in her honour annually in September.

Adekoya noted that the play would be staged five times from Feb. 22, 2025 to Feb 23, 2025, at the Alliance Francaise, Ikoyi, Lagos.

According to her, the play will highlight the African women’s legendary nature of hard work, and how their important roles in the community are being passed down through generations.

She said this was meant to take people down memory lane, to bring history alive and celebrate the legend who is still being worshipped in Owo.

Adekoya said that the theatrical experience would honour Queen Oronsen’s historical legacy, shedding light on her remarkable journey and unwavering dedication to success.

“I am someone who loves stories that talk about women in general and in my research as a writer, I found out that we rarely hear the history of the majority of our female legends.

“We just hear bits and pieces of stories about them.

“This is a deliberate effort to reinforce Queen Moore Oronsen’s historical legacy, I have tried doing this three times right from 2012, I am glad this is gaining traction.

“This is an attempt to start telling stories about women in general. I am the voice of the African woman.

“I want to project women in general. As a girl’s girl, a woman’s woman, I like to always project what a woman is, whether emotionally, financially, or anything,” she said.

Making reference to how the love story between Queen Oronsen and her husband, Olowo Rerengejen, led to war, Adekoya said Africans could draw inspiration from such intriguing story.

According to her, the play production will delve into Queen Oronsen’s struggles, triumphs, and visionary leadership, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her community.

“The play is aimed at educating audiences about Queen Oronsen’s remarkable legacy, inspire dialogue about women’s contributions to history, foster a sense of community and shared heritage as well as empower women and girls through Queen Oronsen’s story.

“Queen Oronsen’s legacy is a testament to the strength and resilience of women. This production is a tribute to her courage and a celebration of the unbreakable spirit that defines women.

“I want to encourage women to always be at the forefront of success as exemplified by Queen Oronsen,” she said.

Also speaking, Emmanuel Adejumo, the Artistic Director for the play, said Africans should watch out for how the famous Odudu dance peculiar with Owo people in Ondo State would be transformed.

Adejumo said there would be a display of modern and traditional ways of rendering the dance in the course of presenting the play.

Oluwasegun Adeyemi, the Choreographer for the production, assured that he will seamlessly integrate contemporary and traditional dance techniques to create distinctive and captivating dance styles tailored specifically for the play. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Politics

Toluwani Ojo-Lanre tops 2024 Emerging Political Leaders Fellows

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By Taiye Olayemi

Toluwani Ojo-Lanre, an indigene of Ekiti, has emerged Overall Best Fellow in the 2024 cohort of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellows (EPLF) in Nigeria.

EPLF was founded by Sen. Liyel Imoke, a former Governor of Cross River, as a non-partisan academy dedicated to nurturing visionary young leaders, who are committed to public service and governance in Nigeria.

This is according to a statement by Ojo-Lanre, on Thursday.

Imoke, while presenting the award to her during the 2024 EPLF Graduation and Mentoring Dinner in Abuja, on Wednesday, highlighted her dedication, diligence, and commitment to political leadership and public governance.

He said this had positioned her as a promising beacon for Nigeria’s future.

Ojo-Lanre’s hard work was further celebrated with the conferment of an Advanced Certificate in Political Leadership and Public Governance, awarded by Hon. Chukwuemeka Ihedioha, a former Governor of Imo.

In addition, she received an award of Recognition for her diligence and an Award of Excellence presented by Sen. Biodun Olujimi.

Olujimi expressed heartfelt pride in Ojo-Lanre’s accomplishments, acknowledging her as an inspiring representative of Ekiti’s best values in governance and leadership.

She said: “Toluwani’s achievements are a source of pride for Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole. Her commitment and expertise in leadership embody hope for the future of this nation.”

Commenting, Ojo-Lanre said her remarkable achievements served as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of service, resilience, and dedication that defines Nigeria’s future leaders.

She promised to continue to break new grounds to inspire many young Nigerians to pursue impactful leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth and progress.

The event brought together a distinguished audience, including Amin Tambuwal, a former Governor of Sokoto State; Sen. Gabriel Suswan, Rotimi Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation; Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe; Sen. Stella Oduah; Sen. John Enoh, among others.

These prominent leaders, along with the award presenters, lauded Ojo-Lanre’s dedication to governance and public service, describing her as a symbol of hope for Nigeria’s emerging leaders. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Education

KOICA committed to supporting educational technology devt. in Africa – Official

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By Sarafina Christopher

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Nigeria on Wednesday said it remained committed to supporting the development of educational technology (edtech) ecosystem in Africa.

Its Country Director, Mr Son Sungil stated this in Abuja during the 6th edition of the African Edutech Conference.

The conference was co-hosted by KOICA in collaboration with UBEC, and the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), among others.

According to Son, EdTech leverages software and hardware to enhance learning outcomes in the classroom.

He said KOICA would continue to support Africa’s education sector through strategic partnerships, edtech infrastructure development and capacity-building initiatives for teachers, school leaders, and education stakeholders.

“KOICA is committed to improving learning outcomes in schools across Africa through innovative smart solutions and collaborative efforts.

“We are working with relevant education stakeholders across Africa toward achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education),”he said.

The KOICA country director affirmed that the agency has been working on improving basic education in Nigeria since 2013.

“In 2018 we established the first Model school in Abuja called Nigeria-Korea model school (NKMS), which focuses on the use of multimedia contents and edtech facilities in delivering better teaching and learning experience for pupils.

“In 2021 we started a Smart education project in collaboration with Universal Basic Education, installing modern education Content Development Studios in 6 smart schools across 6 states,

“We trained 250 teachers, principals and education stakeholders in Korea and Nigeria on Smart education, and developed Smart education guidelines for school operation.

“By co-hosting this year’s Africa Edtech conference, KOICA hopes to foster a vibrant edtech ecosystem in Africa, driven by our shared passion for quality education and sustainable development that leaves no one behind,” Son said.

NAN reports that the event attracted educators, researchers, academics, and students from various African countries to facilitate global knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Metro

NLTF’s strategic plan will create opportunities for Nigerians– Tinubu

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu on Monday said the Strategic Plan (2024-2028) unveiled by the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) would create opportunities for all Nigerians.

Tinubu stated this at the presentation of strategic plan 2024-2028 for delivering good causes mandate of the NLTF held at the banquet hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the President was represented by Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

The President noted that the NLTF was a testament to what could be achieved “when we work together towards a common goal.

“The Strategic Plan we are about to unveil today is designed to create opportunities for every Nigerian in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of our administration.”

Tinubu noted that his administration was conscious of the significant role the gaming industry played in national development.

“This necessitates the adoption of revenue assurance platform to be launch soon so that Nigerians can benefit from the industry,” he said.

The President commended the new leadership of the National Lottery Trust Fund under Mr Tosin Adeyanju for purposeful leadership since assumption of office.

“I look forward to seeing greater results. I urge all stakeholders to join us in this effort to make a lasting impact on the lives of our rural communities,” Tinubu said.

Earlier, Adeyanju, the Executive Secretary of NLTF, said the unveiling of the plan marked a significant step towards enhancing its mandate and deepening impact on Nigerian communities as envisaged by the President.

He reiterated that the NLTF was committed to delivering good cause and worthwhile interventions across various sectors and in communities in need.

“So far, the NLTF has since its establishment in 2005, successfully implemented over 306 projects nationwide, touching lives and transforming communities.

“This, we have continued to do without interruption since my assumption of the mantle of the fund’s leadership.

“I wish to restate that we are open to ideas and innovations with moral limits as I make the pledge at this point to assure Mr President and Nigerians that we do not intend to fail,” Adeyanju said.

He expressed gratitude to Tinubu for finding him worthy to be appointed to steer the affairs of the organisation.

“I solemnly pledge to discharge my duties in furtherance of the expectations of Mr President and fellow country-men and women of all classes,” Adeyanju said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

Metro

NG-CARES will be redesigned as shock response mechanism – Coordinator

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme will be redesigned to function as a shock response mechanism for the Federal and State Governments.

Dr Abdulkarim Obaje, the National Coordinator of NG-CARES, said this at the National Peer Leaning and Experience Sharing event organised by the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU), on Monday in Abuja.

Obaje explained that the NG-CARES programme would be modified to restore livelihood to individuals that were affected by disaster or crisis back to their normal life.

He described the NG-CARES programme as a catalyst for promoting welfare of the poor and vulnerable in the country.

He said that “anytime there is a disaster or there is any crisis immediately after emergency agencies of the country have done their own.

“NG-CARES should come and restore livelihood and to do so on a very sustainable basis in a way that people will not fall back again into poverty.

“So, this is how we are thinking and also to strengthen arms of the state government to continue to serve the interest of the poor and vulnerable in the state.”

Obaje said the success so far recorded by the NG-CARES programme across the country was rebuilding the confidence of the citizens in government at all levels.

“The social contract issue between the lead and the leaders is also being strengthened. The governors are also receptive to the welfare of poor and vulnerable,” he said.

Obaje stated that the total amount of money that the World Bank, through the Federal Government, released to states was 645 million dollars.

He, however, said the results that had been produced and validated by the Federal Government and the World Bank was 835 million dollars.

“That means that they have produced a lots more results than the money we have reimbursed them with,” Obaje said.

Earlier, Dr Lire Ersado, the World Bank Task team leader, said NG-CARES programme would be redesign to focus on climate change, flooding and drought which affects many families.

“How can we use our limited resources in order to mitigate and adapt to the impact of the climate change. We will give a lot of focus on climate impact on poverty and vulnerable people.

“I think those are some of the key innovations we want to add,” he said.

Also, Dr Emeka Obi, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, said in its four years of existence, NG-CARES Programme had made significant contributions to the socio-economic landscape of the country.

Obi added that the programme directly impacted the lives of over 15 million Nigerians through its various Results Areas implemented in all the 36 States and FCT.

“This feat was achieved after three rounds of Independent Verification Assessment of results achieved by the States and FCT between 2021 and 2024 which amounts to 835 million United States Dollars.

“However, total reimbursement by the World Bank stands at 645 million dollars which is about 29 per cent excess of the amount reimbursed.

“This overall achievement by states and FCT, is a testament to the commitment of the Subnational Governments to prioritising the welfare of poor and vulnerable Nigerians at this critical juncture in the course of our national development,” said Obi. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Salif Atojoko

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