NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
STEM: NNPC Foundation donates 25,000 books to 25 schools
Economy/Business

STEM: NNPC Foundation donates 25,000 books to 25 schools

269 total views today

By Emmanuella Anokam

The NNPC Foundation Ltd. has begun distribution of 25,000 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) text books and mini libraries to 25 secondary schools across the country to bridge gap in technological innovation and advancement.

Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director, NNPC Foundation Ltd. said this on Monday while unveiling 1,000 STEM books and mini science library at the School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja.

The NNPC Foundation is the social impact company of the NNPC Limited, undertaking key initiatives in education, empowerment, health, environment and access to energy to boost social-economic development since inception in 2023.

Arukwe said the donation was the second phase of the initiative, highliting that the foundation in 2024 donated  15,000 STEM books to 15 schools in the six geopolitical zones of the country and the FCT.

According to Arukwe, the world is increasingly technology-driven, hence it will be important to equip the youth with relevant skills to keep up with a fast-paced technological world and to foster economic development.

“The unveiling today at the School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja is symbolic, because we will be replicating same in 24 states of the country, across the six geopolitical zones, within the month of April 2025.

“As part of our educational initiatives, we are pleased to introduce the STEM books and Shelves Distribution Project, designed to enhance the study of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in secondary schools across Nigeria.

“A total of 40,000 STEM text books, from the first and second phases of this initiative are to be distributed to public secondary schools in the 36 States and the FCT.

“With the identified schools receiving 1,000 copies each and a designated library bookshelf for storage and accessibility.

“We believe that the gifted children have done so well and it will further help them in their studies and future career choices in academic pursuit,” she said.

She decried limited access to STEM education in Nigeria, especially with paucity of requisite materials to enhance the learning process.

The director said the NNPC Foundation was driving the initiative in secondary schools to build interest among the youths to enable them to them to navigate the modern world of science and technology.

“With this initiative, NNPC Foundation demonstrates its alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and reducing inequality by ensuring that underserved communities received required support to boost STEM learning,” she said.

The Principal of the school, Malam Bello Audu lauded the gesture, adding that it was a testament to the foundation’s commitment towards education and support for the students development.

“Your partnership with us is a shinning example of the positive impact that can be achieved when organisations and communities come together to make a difference.

“As a school for the Gifted, as the name implies, we are not asking for too much, but our gratitude should supersede any further request from your foundation.

“We are honoured to be given this donation by the NNPC Foundation. All children are gifted but the students are admitted here to unlock their gifts.

“The school lacks ICT gadgets such as desktop computers, laptops, and internet facilities. We look forward to receiving such gestures from your good office.

“We look forward to continuing our collaboration and exploring ways to work together to enhance the educational experience of our students,” he said.

Some of the students also expressed appreciation to the foundation for the gesture to enable them to enhance academic excellence.

Anyanwu Ugonnaya, an SS3 science student, said the science books would assist them, especially in the forthcoming Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (SSCE).

“STEM text books will help us while doing assignment, reading and researching.

“The donation will help future generations to come to get acquainted with knowledge easily, especially the less privileged, who cannot afford all books,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

BRIPAN, Federal High Court partner on business insolvency
Economy/Business

BRIPAN, Federal High Court partner on business insolvency

264 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has partnered with the Federal High Court to streamline processes within the insolvency division and enhance the administration of business recovery in the country.

BRIPAN President, Mr Chimezie Ihekweazu, disclosed this in a communiqué made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

NAN reports that BRIPAN is a professional body involved in business recovery and insolvency, promoting best practices and managing financially distressed individuals and businesses.

Ihekweazu, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the collaboration aims to simplify insolvency proceedings and processes.

The insolvency division refers to a section within a legal or financial institution that manages the legal processes associated with companies or individuals unable to repay their debts, potentially resulting in liquidation or restructuring.

Ihekweazu stated that the partnership meeting was held with the Head of the newly established Insolvency Division, Mimidoo Abako Esq., and the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Lagos Division, Mr Godwin Long.

He described the initiative as a significant milestone in legal sector collaboration.

Ihekweazu stressed the importance of competent personnel with expertise in various insolvency options to ensure the effective operation of the division.

He proposed the establishment of a dedicated registry to monitor insolvency matters and facilitate close coordination with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

“This integration is expected to harmonise record-keeping between both bodies, prevent duplication of proceedings, and expedite hearings,” he said.

Ihekweazu also advocated for strong technological support and the decentralisation of the insolvency unit’s operations to ensure consistency across all divisions of the court.

Mr Amala Umeike Esq., a BRIPAN team member and Chairman of the Joint Committee with the CAC for reviewing the Insolvency Regulations 2022, commended the initiative.

Umeike noted that the improved structures would not only streamline insolvency cases at the Federal High Court but also increase revenue generation for the institution.

The Vice President of BRIPAN, Mr Albert Folorunsho, called for the formation of a technical joint committee or consultancy group to oversee the phased implementation of the division.

Mr Godwin Long reaffirmed his team’s commitment and pledged unwavering support for the collaborative effort.

According to him, the meeting marked the beginning of a more efficient and coordinated approach to insolvency matters.

He assured that both BRIPAN and the Federal High Court remained committed to establishing a robust legal framework for the future. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

LIFE-ND begins project in 3 states
Agriculture

LIFE-ND begins project in 3 states

357 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-supported Livelihood Improvement and Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project has commenced the implementation of an agri-entrepreneurship initiative across Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Imo states.

Dr Abiodun Sanni, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, disclosed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

His statement followed a sensitisation and inspection tour by project officials.

Sanni identified the three states as part of those funded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

He emphasised that implementation has begun with community sensitisation and the identification of both incubators and incubatees in the participating states.

According to him, the sensitisation aims to create awareness within the communities and instil a sense of ownership.

He noted that the exercise involved engaging community members and leaders, as well as identifying potential incubators (trainers) and incubatees (trainees) in the respective Local Government Areas.

“This sensitisation exercise creates a background to the next exercise, which is profiling of potential incubators and incubatees who are the key players in the LIFE-ND incubation model.

“This model takes it roots from the traditional master-apprenticeship system popularly practised in the eastern region of Nigeria.

“The set target is that each state is expected to empower 4,250 beneficiaries and there is a deliberate effort at ensuring gender balance is achieved,” he said.

Sanni explained that the identified beneficiaries would be profiled and that prospective incubators and incubatees would subsequently be selected.

“In terms of commodity focus, Akwa Ibom will prioritise cassava, oil palm, poultry, and aquaculture; Imo will focus on cassava, rice, poultry, and aquaculture; while Rivers will target cassava, plantain, poultry, and aquaculture.

“The overall goal of the LIFE-ND project is to realise a transformed rural economy in the Niger Delta from which the rural population can derive prosperity and equal benefit.

“The project development objective is to enhance income, food security and job creation for rural youth and women through agri-enterprise development on a sustainable basis in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria”.

The LIFE-ND project, a joint initiative of the Federal Government and IFAD, officially began on February 21, 2019.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) serves as the lead implementing agency, while NDDC acts as a partner in delivering the project across the nine Niger Delta states.

The project is targeting a total of 38,250 beneficiaries across Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers states.

Sanni clarified that IFAD is funding six of the states; Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Ondo, while the remaining three are funded by NDDC.

He further noted that the project includes an initial six-year phase with parallel funding from NDDC, and an additional six years under future IFAD financing.

According to Sanni, “IFAD has released 60 million US dollars in the first which has enabled the implementation of the project in the six states of Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Ondo from 2019 to 2025.

“NDDC funded states commenced implementation in 2024 when its made the initial commitment of 2.5 million dollars in August 2024 and another 2.5 million dollars in Jan. 2025. The said amount will enable the three states swing into full implementation”.

Meanwhile, on the ground in Imo State, stakeholders are already witnessing the impact of the project.

Mr Mbaeyi Emeka, an incubator and owner of Prince Mbaeyi Emeka Farm in Obollo Autonomous Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, commended the LIFE-ND intervention.

Emeka recounted that he had previously operated as a subsistence cassava farmer before joining the project.

Now, he proudly identifies as a full-fledged commercial farmer.

“I advise youth and women indulging in cassava production to be dedicated. If you can endure for one year when the cassava has matured, you will realise bumper harvest, self-sustaining economically and employer of labour.

“There is money in farming, especially cassava.

“When l came back from Italy after spending four years l went into farming which is profitable.

“So, l advise people to be courageous and go into farming especially cassava production rather than waiting time in expectation of civil service and oil job that is not available,” he said.

Similarly, Mrs Ifeoma Njoku, an incubatee under Mbaeyi Farms, described cassava farming as a lucrative venture.

She encouraged other women to take advantage of the LIFE-ND project to improve their livelihoods and boost household incomes.

She praised the project for alleviating the struggles of the less privileged.

Also, Mr Young-man Soseipiri, Assistant Farm Manager at Petros Poultry Farms in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, said the initiative had provided an opportunity to train incubatees in broiler and layer production. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Egypt expresses interest in expanding cultural ties with BRICS
Foreign

Egypt expresses interest in expanding cultural ties with BRICS

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Egypt’s Ministry of Culture has expressed the desire to strengthen cultural cooperation with the BRICS countries of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, among others.

Rania Abdel Latif, the Head of the cultural ministry’s Foreign Cultural Affairs Department, said this in an interview with the Middle East News Agency (MENA), a partner of TV BRICS.

Latif noted that since Egypt joined BRICS in 2024, culture has become one of the key areas of interaction.

She said that after the country joined the group, a national commission was formed, including representatives of various agencies.

According to her, Egypt was part of the recent meeting of the BRICS working group on culture chaired by Brazil, during which plans for 2025 were discussed.

She said at the meeting, Egypt shared its ideas on digitalisation of cultural content.

The spokesperson added that the country introduced the Green Cultural Economy initiative in 2022, aimed at communicating the impact of climate change on countries’ cultural heritage.

The News Agency of  Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Culture was held at the end of March with the main area of focus being the issue of restitution of cultural property.

The Egyptian delegation stressed that its home government was actively seeking the return of the country’s lost artefacts.

BRICS also has Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as member countries. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

BRICS Group explores expanding flights between members
Foreign

BRICS Group explores expanding flights between members

288 total views today

The BRICS Working Group is looking closely at developing sustainable transport system and improving air connectivity between member countries of the bloc – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

A post hoisted on the official website of the Brazilian government indicated that meetings have been held and are still ongoing aimed at agreeing on priority topics to be presented at a BRICS Summit in July.

“The first technical meeting focused on sustainability initiatives implemented by the Brazilian government in various logistics sectors.

“Representatives of the Brazilian Ministry of Ports and Airports presented proposals to promote sustainable and resilient transport infrastructure with a focus on urban mobility.

“In the aviation sector, participants discussed the challenges of reducing emissions and implementing clean energy policies.

“To improve connectivity between member countries, technical experts are working to increase the number of flights between the group’s countries,” the government said.

The post affirmed that the decarbonisation of ports and maritime transport, including the use of clean, low-carbon fuels, in line with the targets set by the International Maritime Organization to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, has also been discussed.

According to the post, the Brazilian group emphasised the importance of direct energy supply from ports to ships.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the roundtable was the first technical meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Transport chaired by Brazil, which started in January.

NAN further reports that two more meetings of the group are scheduled to hold in April and May this year.

Meanwhile, a ministerial meeting will be held in Brasilia in May to present the outcome of the meeting of the group. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

New Sokoto river basin MD vows to restore lost glory
Agriculture , Food Security

New Sokoto river basin MD vows to restore lost glory

503 total views today

By Muhammad Nasir

Alhaji Abubakar Malam, the newly appointed Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA), officially assumed office on Thursday, pledging to restore its lost glory.

Malam emphasised the grassroots-driven importance of the organisation and urged the management to establish a sustainable synergy to realign its activities with its original mandate.

“Our focus will be on increasing food production, reducing poverty, fostering grassroots development and ensuring sustainable rural investments.

“We will also strive to improve the livelihoods of the people across the four states under our jurisdiction,” Malam stated.

He further highlighted the need to provide a strong impetus for sustainable growth through agricultural investments to enhance the economic fortunes of the people.

Reflecting on the challenges ahead, Malam acknowledged that the task before the new SRRBDA management was a daunting one, given the current realities that necessitate the restoration of the organisation’s lost prestige.

“As we take on the responsibility of leading this organisation, I assure you that under my leadership.

“We will strive to improve staff welfare, uphold discipline and work ethics, recognise productivity, and reward excellence to motivate employees for maximum output,” he affirmed.

The managing director also announced plans to develop a comprehensive action plan aligned with the organisation’s mandate.

He said, “This plan will clearly define responsibilities at all levels to facilitate effective assessment and quality control”.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the new SRRBDA Executive Directors, Malam thanked President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Water Resources, and the Governors of Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto and Katsina States for the trust placed in them.

“I wish to extend our profound appreciation to president Bola Tinubu for this opportunity to serve.

“We remain deeply indebted and firmly committed to the president developmental agenda and campaign promises,” he stated.

Malam assured that SRRBDA would complement the president’s initiatives in agriculture, agro-industrial zones, livestock development, rural economic growth, sanitation, and food security.

Additionally, Malam extended a hand of partnership to all federal and state organisations, agencies, and stakeholders, inviting them to collaborate in his mission to make a meaningful impact.

“We are determined to make a difference, and we welcome all stakeholders to join us in this commitment to progress,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Kwara, IsDB to invest .2m in livestock development project
Agriculture

Kwara, IsDB to invest $57.2m in livestock development project

300 total views today

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

Kwara Government has partnered with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Saudi Arabia, to invest $57.2 million in an agricultural transformation initiative aimed at boosting livestock production and rural development.

The State Coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Dr Busari Isiaka, confirmed the partnership in an interview with journalists on Thursday in Ilorin.

He said that the project was funded through this partnership to establish robust infrastructure for investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.

Isiaka emphasised the significance of the project, saying it marked the first time a sitting governor had served as chairman of a steering committee for such an initiative.

“To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative with joint funding from the state government and IsDB.

“While other states in the federation receive support from the African Development Bank, Kwara is pioneering this collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he said.

He further highlighted that Kwara demonstrated early commitment by swiftly paying its counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations.

“This prompt action has enabled significant progress on the project.

“The initiative primarily focuses on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with the core objective of enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.

“The SAPZ project will prioritise youth and women while promoting food and nutritional security.

“It is designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring access to modern processing facilities,” he added.

Dr Isiaka also stated that the project was being implemented in five local government areas– Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro.

He explained that it would feature Agricultural Transformation Centres.

“Here, local farmers can process raw materials such as milk before transporting them to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.

“The beef value chain will also be integrated into the project, with necessary facilities to support meat processing.

“To ensure smooth execution, we conducted extensive environmental assessments and community consultations.

“We have profiled over 5,000 beneficiaries, ensuring that the infrastructure meets their needs, including access to potable water,” he said.

According to Isiaka, the project is currently in its design phase and is expected to transition into full infrastructure development later this year.

He also revealed that the state government had engaged consultants to attract both local and international investors to the project.

“The goal of the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) is to reduce agricultural wastage and enhance value addition.

“Kwara is positioning itself as a leader in livestock processing, and this initiative will ensure that our farmers benefit immensely,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Advancing Autism awareness and inclusion in Africa
Features

Advancing Autism awareness and inclusion in Africa

429 total views today

By Abiemwense Moru, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Autism awareness has gained huge global attention in recent years.

However, in Africa, progress remains hindered by widespread misconceptions, stigma, and limited access to essential services.

While efforts are being made to address these challenges, much remains to be done to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent difficulties in social communication and interaction, along with restricted and repetitive behaviours.

Many individuals with ASD and their families face immense challenges, including inadequate access to quality education, healthcare, and social support.

In Africa, these difficulties are often exacerbated by deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and a lack of early diagnosis and intervention.

In Nigeria, ASD is a major public health concern, with prevalence rates varying across studies and regions.

Research indicates that approximately 1 in 150 to 160 children—equating to around 600,000 individuals—are affected by ASD in the country.

Hospital-based studies have reported prevalence rates of 1 in 43.5 in South-West Nigeria and 1 in 125 in South-Eastern Nigeria.

Another study documented a prevalence of 2.3 per cent among 2,320 new cases at child neurology and psychiatric clinics over a six-year period.

Among children with intellectual disabilities, the prevalence of ASD was found to be 11.4 per cent.

Albeit these figures, autism awareness in Nigeria remains limited.

Health experts argue that many individuals with ASD are either misdiagnosed or undiagnosed due to a lack of understanding among healthcare professionals and the general public.

According to them, cultural misconceptions contribute greatly to the stigma, with some attributing autism to supernatural causes.

As a result, families often conceal affected individuals, preventing them from accessing appropriate care and support.

Although efforts to improve awareness are ongoing, challenges persist in ensuring accurate diagnosis and intervention.

One advocate leading the charge in changing this narrative is Victoria Jim, founder of the Sustainable Development for Africa Youth Initiative (SuDAYI).

Through her organisation, she is championing the rights of individuals with autism, providing support for affected families, and working towards creating a more inclusive society.

Jim’s passion for autism advocacy stems from her personal experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed the marginalisation and exclusion of individuals with disabilities.

“I saw how they were often denied access to basic rights and opportunities,” she recalls.

Determined to drive change, she founded SuDAYI, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that focuses on advocating for inclusive policies and support systems for individuals with autism and other disabilities.

She emphasises the need for collective efforts to create an environment where no one is left behind.

“Every individual with autism deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and social services that cater to their specific needs,” she asserts.

Through SuDAYI, she is working to bridge the gaps in autism services and ensure that individuals with ASD have the necessary resources to thrive.

Over the next two years, the organisation aims to implement a comprehensive autism management programme, focusing on inclusive education, family support, and professional training for caregivers and healthcare workers.

To achieve this, SuDAYI is establishing partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to promote autism awareness and encourage acceptance.

This aligns with Jim’s vision of an Africa where autistic individuals are empowered, supported, and given equal opportunities.

In spite of some progress in autism advocacy, policy gaps remain a major challenge.

Legal frameworks such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 represent a step forward, but they fail to adequately address the specific needs of children and women with disabilities.

Rep. Bashiru Dawodu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters, acknowledges the limitations of the current law.

“Specifically, there is a need for stronger protections for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental needs, and neurodegenerative conditions,” he emphasises.

According to him, while the government has an important role in shaping policies, the collective efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) and advocacy groups are equally essential.

Dawodu highlights the importance of collaboration between the government and CSOs to effectively address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs).

Similarly, Mohammed Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, shares this sentiment, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This agenda prioritises inclusivity and equal opportunities for all young people, especially those with disabilities,” Isa states.

The government’s pledge to collaborate with initiatives like SuDAYI offers a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive future.

However, one of the most pressing needs in addressing autism in Africa is increasing awareness and shifting societal perceptions.

Many autistic individuals face exclusion due to misconceptions about their capabilities.

Platforms such as the 14th Annual Autism Conference, organised by Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), are working to change this narrative.

Segun Agbaje, CEO of GTCO, emphasises the importance of recognising the strengths of individuals with autism rather than focusing on their challenges.

“By embracing their talents and potential, society can provide individuals with autism the opportunities they need to succeed,” he asserts.

The conference, themed “A Spectrum of Possibilities,” advocates for greater inclusion and encourages society to support autistic individuals in finding their passions and making meaningful contributions.

One individual who embodies resilience in the face of autism is Zekwande Mathenjwa, a South African who has lived with ASD.

In his video titled ‘Escaping from Silence’, Zekwande shares his journey of overcoming social isolation and the struggles of growing up with autism.

With the help of a dedicated speech therapist, he was able to break communication barriers and connect with the world around him.

His story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right support, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and successful lives.

As stakeholders continue to push for autism awareness and inclusivity, the future looks promising for individuals with autism in Africa.

Organisations like SuDAYI, backed by government policies, advocacy campaigns, and cultural education efforts, are paving the way for a society that embraces neurodiversity rather than marginalising it.

With continued collaboration, awareness, and policy development, Africa can move towards a future where every individual, regardless of ability, is empowered to lead a meaningful life. (NANFeatures)

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

FG to enhance rural infrastructure in Niger Delta- First Lady
General News

FG to enhance rural infrastructure in Niger Delta- First Lady

247 total views today

By Shedrack Frank

First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to delivering accessible and affordable infrastructure to rural communities in the Niger Delta region.

She said this during the inauguration of access to health insurance services for poor and vulnerable people and the commissioning of the Cottage Hospital and Community School.

The event was organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative in Otuasega, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa on Thursday.

She added that the Federal Government was focused on significantly aiding in saving lives and ensuring that communities received prompt medical attention when needed, to reduce the health mortality rate in the country.

The First Lady also inaugurated the commencement of the NDDC 2025 free medical outreach and the donation of medical equipment to some health facilities in the region.

Tinubu explained that the introduction of a health insurance scheme, specifically designed to cover rural communities in the Niger Delta, would provide thousands of families with access to affordable and reliable medical care.

“I am honoured to be in Bayelsa State after my first visit, and it is a great delight for me to officially inaugurate the NDDC medical outreach programme.

“The health insurance scheme and the distribution of school desks, benches, and textbooks, in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative, will benefit the nine states of the Niger Delta region, namely: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Rivers, Edo, Imo, Abia, and Ondo.”

“Bayelsa is graciously hosting us today.”

She further explained that the NDDC/RHI collaboration began in 2024 to provide further support in critical areas of development by empowering communities.

According to her, this will improve the quality of life in the Niger Delta region, in line with our Renewed Hope Initiative model for a better life for families.

“You may recall that the NDDC’s earlier interventions in education provided more than 45,000 preloaded educational tablets and textbooks to upper primary schools, junior, and senior secondary school students.

“These resources were distributed in both urban and rural communities across all the NDDC states.

“Additionally, the NDDC-RHI internship scheme has begun disbursing N50,000 monthly stipends to 500 pre-identified beneficiaries for one year in all nine states, through the office of the state First Ladies.

“This is akin to a conditional cash transfer.

“Today, the medical outreach programme, which I am told is conducted quarterly, aims to deliver special health services directly to the communities.”

The First Lady said it would address common health issues, provide preventive care, and raise awareness about health concerns that disproportionately affected rural residents, particularly in maternal and child health.

She said in addition, 11 fully equipped ambulances would be donated, along with the supply of personal protective equipment to enhance healthcare delivery.

“Each NDDC state will receive one ambulance, while Bayelsa and Delta will each receive two ambulances.

“This contribution will significantly aid in saving lives and ensure that communities receive prompt medical attention when needed.

“The introduction of the health insurance scheme specifically designed to cover rural communities in the Niger Delta will provide thousands of families with access to affordable and reliable medical care,”she said.

Earlier, the Managing Director of NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, said that the essence of the partnership between the Renewed Hope Initiative and NDDC was to ensure the commission delivered the dividends of development in the areas of health, education, and other social services.

He emphasised that these efforts particularly focused on benefiting women, children, and youth in the Niger Delta region.

He further stated that for the past month, NDDC has been commissioning road projects in the region, initiated by the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu.

On his part, Gov. Douye Diri expressed his appreciation to the Federal Government for several developmental projects executed in Bayelsa, especially the linking of roads to some coastal communities.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

DHQ dismisses reports of Niger’s MNJTF withdrawal
Defence/Security

DHQ dismisses reports of Niger’s MNJTF withdrawal

283 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports of Niger Republic’s withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), stating that such a move would have serious security implications.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, addressed the media on Thursday in Abuja, emphasising the critical role of the MNJTF in regional security.

He stressed that efforts must be made to prevent any member state from leaving.

“I believe this issue has been a topic of discussion over the past few months, particularly after some ECOWAS members decided to form an alliance.

“However, the Multinational Joint Task Force was established by the Lake Chad Commission countries to address shared security concerns.

“Nigeria has made significant efforts to ensure the sustainability of this task force.

“However, if any member decides to withdraw, the implications will be significant. The synergy we rely on may no longer exist.

“It is not in our interest for any country to leave because their challenges also affect us. A withdrawal creates a gap and weakens the strength of the contingent from that country.

“Therefore, efforts must be made to prevent such a situation. We will continue to monitor the situation and, as always, provide further updates when necessary,” he said.

He also responded to concerns about the military’s operations, dismissing claims that efforts against terrorists, cattle rustlers, and herders had been scaled back.

He reaffirmed that operations remained ongoing and that high-value targets, such as notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, were still being pursued.

Addressing concerns about the welfare of troops, Kangye assured the public that soldiers wounded in action were well taken care of.

“The military has provided housing for those who cannot return to active service, and senior officers frequently visit wounded troops both on the frontlines and in hospitals.

“Some soldiers requiring advanced treatment have been flown to countries like Egypt, Turkey, and India,”he said.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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