By Rukayat Moisemhe

Experts have called for the development of a framework aimed at enhancing women’s integration of digital transformation to increase their representation in the technology space.

They gave the advice at the Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM) 2024 Women in Management and Leadership (WIMLEAD) Conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is: “Digital Transformation and Women Leadership”.

Mrs Solape Akinpelu, Chief Executive Officer, HerVest, said that Nigeria had the highest rate of female entrepreneurs globally, yet, only 15 per cent of its technology startup founders were women.

She noted that with only 28 per cent of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) leadership positions held by women, the growing field of digital transformation was a fertile ground to increase female representation in leadership roles.

Akinpelu, therefore, charged Nigerian women to integrate digital transformation in their businesses to increase value delivery to their stakeholders.

“Its adoption reduced cost, quickened development of products and services, increased entrance into new markets and amplified efficiency.

“According to the World Economic Forum, 100 trillion dollars will be added to the world economy through digital transformation by 2025.

“There is more work to be done regarding educating young women about tech jobs and what is out there – from engineers to coders to those in customer success roles, we are all touched and working in technology.

“Let us create a digital transformation framework, adopt agile methods, focus on interoperability, identify concrete elements of digital transformation and engage the entire organisation in digital transformation,” she said.

Dr Christiana Atako, President, NIM, said the conference’s theme was appropriate for the times we were in, noting that technology is key to today’s women leaders who desire to distinguish themselves and be ahead of the rest of the pack.

She said that digital transformation and women’s leadership were two crucial aspects of human development that could drive significant positive change in organisations and society.

She, however, noted that challenges women face in digital transformation included underrepresentation of women in technology, bias and stereotype and inadequate support and training.

Atako stated that to promote digital transformation in women’s leadership, there must be training and development programmes focused on digital skills and leadership and encourage mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.

“We must foster a culture of inclusivity and support, and celebrate women’s achievements and successes in digital transformation.

“By inculcating digital transformation in women’s leadership, organisations can unlock new potential, drive innovation, and create a more equitable and prosperous future,” she said.

In her remarks, First lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said women played crucial roles in modern society, serving as the bedrocks of homes and communities while contributing indispensably to various sectors of the economy.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the wife to her Special Adviser on Mineral Resources, Mrs Victoria Olowu, lauded the NIM for the annual conference platform which promotes, protects and preserves the rights and wellbeing of women in the society.

She noted that the conference’s theme was apt and underscored the need for women to leverage technology for greater good.

“Leadership and innovative solutions are critical to driving women’s empowerment.

“Women in politics and leadership position bring unique insights and priorities as their involvement in governance promotes transparency, accountability and social justice.

“The office of the first lady in complimenting the efforts of the state government has initiated various interventions and support programmes for women, youths and children.

“We would continue to advocate policies that address the needs of all citizens, and collaborate with stakeholders to empower them in relevant sectors to meet up with the demands of the society.

“It is my belief that with this conference, the various challenges affecting women from becoming independent and realising their full potential would be significantly addressed,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Federal Government says it is committed to the successful conduct of the 7th round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS)/ National Immunisation Coverage Survey (NICS).

Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician- General of the Federation, said this at the inauguration of the National Steering Committee and National Technical Committee for the 7th round of the MICS and NICS in Abuja on Monday.

Adeniran, Chief Executive Officer, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), said the inauguration, which was in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) was a highlight of the preparatory activities of the two surveys.

He said there had been improvements and innovations to the two surveys since their last round in 2021.

Adeniran said there would be structural changes in the standard survey questionnaire and the expansion of its content in the seventh round of the two surveys.

“Improved technology will be deployed to capture geographic locations and improved turnaround time to complete the process of this round.

”Efficient data quality control to ensure results are robust enough for policy-making, capacity strengthening for our staff and improved online presence after the results are out.

“There will be challenges in the delivery of these two exercises, however, it comes with immense value for national development planning, policy-making and programme development and government decisions.

“Therefore, as part of the strategic plan put in place to ensure the success of the 7th round of the MICS and NICS, a governance structure has been constituted to carry out overall coordination of the survey and the entire process.”

He said the national steering committee would be chaired by the Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, of NBS.

Adeniran said members were drawn from representatives from the National Population Commission, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Primary Health Care Development Agency.

He said they also include representatives from the Ministries of Education, Water Resources and Sanitation, Environment And Natural Resources, Women Affairs and Social Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“Others are the representatives of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs; National Human Capital Development Secretariat, Office of the Vice-President and State Ministries of Budget and Economic Planning.

“Others include UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, UNDP, UNWomen, World Bank, GAFI, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Food and Agriculture Organisation, and World Food Programme.”

The Statistician-General said other critical members who had not been captured would be included in the course of the meetings of the steering committee toward the implementation of the surveys.

“Members of the steering committee are tasked with providing oversight for the planning, implementation and dissemination of MICS seven and NICS results. Ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

“They are expected to advise the survey’s technical committee on the process and content of the survey, support them on the day-to-day operation of the survey management and promote ownership of the survey results.

“This will enable us to utilise the data effectively for policy formulation, advocacy and monitoring our national commitments to the 2030 SDGS and the African Agenda 2060.”

He said the technical committee comprised technical experts from the organisations represented on the steering committee and other relevant institutions that can assist with topics covered by the MICS/NICS.

Mr Wayne Bacale, Chief, Planning and Monitoring, at UNICEF, said he hoped the 7th round of the MICS would be a tool to help ministries reflect on how the country was progressing.

“I hope the inauguration will help us know the strategic priorities in the 7th edition and to what extent we can use the survey for our decision-making policy on Nigeria.

“The MICS and NICS is a strong story to tell on how we have progressed as a nation.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MICS is a household survey developed by UNICEF to assist countries in filling data gaps for monitoring human development indicators in general and the situation of children and women, in particular.

The NBS implemented MICS which provides data on child mortality, health, nutrition, education, child and social protection, women’s health care and empowerment, water, sanitation and hygiene, while NICS assesses vaccination coverage provided through the health systems. (NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

By Martha Agas

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, says the African continent is determined to empower its marginalised communities through its natural resources.

Alake described Africa as endowed with natural resources, capable of driving its sustainable economic growth, particularly with the critical minerals needed for the global energy transition.

He stated this on Thursday in Abuja. at a press briefing against the backdrop of the forthcoming 2024 African Natural Resources & Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS).

He said that equitable distribution of resources and targeted investments in local communities were key to empowering those historically underserved.

Alake said that the move would reduce inequality, promote social stability, and ensure inclusive growth across the continent.

“By channeling investments into rural areas and marginalised communities, we can create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, improve access to essential services, and foster an environment, where every individual has the chance to thrive.”

He said that the summit, to be hosted by Nigeria from July 16 to July 18 was aimed at exploring strategies for utilising fossil fuel revenues to fund Africa’s transition to a greener future.

“AFNIS 2024 is not merely a gathering of minds, but a convergence of visionaries committed to transforming Africa’s natural resource landscape.

“ Our discussions and decisions will resonate across the continent, influencing policies, shaping industries, and setting the course for a sustainable future,” he said.

The minister said that the summit was also aimed at bolstering the continent’s efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, while fostering the development of cleaner, more accessible, and reliable energy sources.

According to the minister, the summit will provide a platform for government officials, the private sector and industry experts from across the continent to chart ways for the sustainable development of its natural resources.

He said that the 2024 theme “Natural Resources for Economic Development,” underscored the significant role that Africa’s natural resources play in driving economic prosperity.

Alake said that the economic growth of the region would have multiplier effects, including alleviating poverty and creating job opportunities for its people.

“ By fostering economic growth, we can alleviate poverty, create job opportunities and ensure prosperity for all.

“The responsible exploitation of our resources will generate revenues that can be reinvested into our economies, enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

“This cycle of growth will elevate the living standards of our people and position Africa as a formidable player in the global economy, ”he said.

The minister said that the summit would deliberate on leveraging Africa’s natural resources to address crucial issues such as quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation.

He added that other issues to tackle also include provision of affordable and clean energy, and proactive climate action.

Alake explained that the summit would be the third edition and would be hosted in partnership with Core International Mining Company.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

By Martha Agas

The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise Duties, has tasked the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on improved security at land borders across the country.

The chairman of the committee, Rep. Leke Abejide, made the call during an oversight function at the NCS headquarters on Wednesday in Abuja.

He acknowledged the efforts of the NCS in the interception of arms and ammunition, particularly in its recent operations in Lagos and Rivers States.

“These interceptions were not routine seizures. They potentially saved the lives of countless Nigerians and demonstrated the exceptional skills and dedication of your personnel in protecting our borders,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the NCS recently seized 844 riffles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Similarly, the NCS, Murtala Muhammed Area command, Ikeja, seized 55 pieces of unassembled Jojef Magnum semi automatic shot guns.

The chairman, however, urged the service not to be complacent with the outcomes, as the seized items were an indication that the country was facing enormous challenges and required more security at its borders.

“Every weapon and illicit item seized is a victory, but every attempt to smuggle them into Nigeria is a call to redouble our efforts,” he said.

According to the chairman, the committee will undertake a thorough investigation into all illegal activities taking place within bonded terminals, and free trade zones across the country.

“Our objective is to bring sanity and order to these areas , ensuring they operate within the confines of the law and contribute positively to the nation’s growth,” he said .

Abejide explained that the move was necessary to eliminate illegal businesses and activities that threatened national security and economic stability in those areas.

He said that the committee was advocating for the progress of the e-customs modernisation project, and urged the service to address issues of network outages to ensure a smooth transition.

The chairman assured the NCS of the committee’s support in addressing its challenges, saying that continuous investment in resources, technology, and manpower was crucial to ensure greater success.

Earlier, the Comptroller-General (C-G) of NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, acknowledged the importance of legislative oversight in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the implementation of operations and projects within the service.

Adeniyi said that their insights and guidance were crucial in helping NCS to improve its services for the progress of the country.

“You help us to better facilitate trade and to secure our borders while collecting revenues that are very vital to our economy,” he said.

He assured the committee that NCS was committed to continuous improvement and innovation in all aspects of its services and project implementation.

According to the customs boss, feedback and recommendations from the legislature are crucial to enable them to streamline their processes, improve efficiency, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.

He said that Customs was determined to instill discipline among its personnel in  the discharge of duties, and had taken disciplinary action against those found wanting, to serve as a deterrent to others.

Also speaking, Caroline Niagwan,  the Deputy Comptroller -General in charge of Tariff and Trade, said that the service was working assiduously to meet its annual  revenue target of N5.1 trillion.

She said the service had collected N2.74 trillion as revenue in the first half of 2024, surpassing the expected revenue target of N2.54 trillion for the same period.

Edited by Isaac Ukpoju

By Yunus Yusuf

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has urged organisations dedicated to consumer welfare and business-to-customer relationships to promote fair business practices.

Its Acting Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Adamu Abdullahi, made the appeal during an engagement between the FCCPC and the National Association of Supermarket Operators of Nigeria/Retail Council of Nigeria on Thursday in Lagos.

Abdullahi noted that the commission had identified concerns in the retail sector, especially regarding the inconsistent display of prices, which had led to discrepancies between shelf prices and the final amount charged at the till.

To address this, he urged supermarkets to maintain price transparency and consistency, recognising that trust and market integrity hinge on this critical aspect.

He explained that while the FCCPC does not regulate prices, it has a mandate to promote fair competition and discourage price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

Abdullahi said, “We don’t control prices. But we ensure that there is a level playing field so that the market is open and people can come in, display their wares, and sell at their own prices.

“The price dictates whether you sell your products or not, as far as we’re concerned.

“We feel that it’s only fair that if the government is trying its very best to bring down the Naira exchange value, then those efforts should also be rewarded by retailers by bringing down the cost of items.”

By upholding consumer rights and fostering a competitive marketplace, the FCCPC boss added that the commission aimed to create a conducive environment for both businesses and consumers to thrive.

According to him, the commission is dedicated to enforcing compliance with the law, particularly the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) Act, to eradicate deceptive and misleading marketing practices that undermine competition.

“That’s why we’re here today. The concerns we have in the retail business, especially the formal sector, is this issue of price display on products.

“This has been a major concern for us because it is what has already led to the ceding of a major supermarket in Abuja.

“This is because the price displayed at the counter is different from the one you pay at the till. And that’s misleading and deceptive as far as the regulations are concerned.”

Abdullahi hinted that the FCCPC had agreed to form a small technical committee that would look at a Memorandum of Understanding, its draft, and how to work together henceforth.

“We are going to have a lot of capacity building amongst ourselves so that we understand each other, we understand them from the side of businesses.

“They understand us from the side of regulators. That way, we would have a lot of mileage, ” he added.

Dr Haresh Keswani, Chairman of the National Association of Supermarket Operators of Nigeria/Retail Council of Nigeria, commended the FCCPC boss for his time and open-mindedness in understanding the importance of retail in Nigeria.

Keswani, also the Managing Director of Atee Industies, known as SPAR, said his members were law-abiding companies and they continued to be focused on the consumer, just like the FCCPC.

“As you know, the current retail is the second generation. The first generation died many years ago in the brands of Kingsway, UTC, and all that.

“And the second-generation retails, which are several brands, have been built over many years and are also currently struggling to stay in business. And you all know the reason why they are struggling. Because being compliant in Nigeria is expensive.

“To pay salaries on time, to make sure you pay your taxes, you pay your power energy bills, and you follow the rules is an expensive proposition,” he said.

To this end, he noted that the essence of the engagement with the FCCPC was to work on the value chain.

Keswani added, “In this value chain, all four pillars are stakeholders. And we all equally have to do our own bit. I cannot be a midfielder, a defender, a striker, and a goalkeeper.

“We all have a role to play. So this is team play. This is teamwork and we are clearly focused on wanting the retail business to grow.

“Also, we want the consumer to get the best value. But equally, not without everyone stepping onto the ground and playing the game.” (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Funmilayo Adeyemi
The United Kingdom based leadership development organisation TEXEM UK has urged Nigerian executives to be resilient in their leadership responsibilities to achieve best goals in volatile economic environments.

In a statement on its website, TEXEM’s Director, Special Projects, Caroline Lucas expressed the need for the leaders to revitalise their organisations so as to inspire sustainable growth in a recovering economy like Nigeria.

Lucas said in an era of unprecedented volatility, senior executives grapple with a myriad of challenges that necessitate innovative strategies and resilient leadership.

She said that the TEXEM programme in Lagos, scheduled for July 17 and July 18, presents a transformative opportunity to invigorate Nigerian organisations and foster sustainable growth in the country’s economy.

The programme is titled “Revitalise Your Organisation: Inspire Sustainable Growth In A Recovering Economy”.

“In today’s interconnected and unpredictable world, resilience extends far beyond mere operational continuity during crises.

“True resilience embodies a company’s capacity to absorb stress, recover critical functionality, and thrive in new circumstances.

“This holistic view of resilience, as a strategic advantage, enables companies to capitalize on opportunities when competitors are least prepared,” the director said.

Lucas said the TEXEM programme underscores the importance of embedding resilience into all organisational functions, from finance, IT to customer service.

“Through case studies and role-playing exercises, executives will acquire practical tools to operationalise resilience and drive long-term performance.

“While resilience is essential, regeneration propels business strategy further.

“Regeneration entails making bold, proactive moves that reconnect companies with their strategic foundations,” Lucas said.

She added that this approach transcends mere survival, fostering long-term value and enduring competitive advantage.

“Executives will explore how to develop business models that generate greater long-term value, support a culture of continuous learning and development, and leverage technology to unlock new opportunities.

“This programme will equip leaders with the skills to drive sustainable growth and adaptability in an ever-changing world.

“The future of work, characterised by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and evolving consumer demands, requires adaptable leadership,” she said.

Lucas urged leaders to leverage emerging technologies and navigate complex stakeholder landscapes with a “learn-it-all” mindset.

“The TEXEM programme will delve into the Learning Executives Framework, helping participants develop a vision, deliver values, and master the art of persuasion.

“By fostering an environment that encourages innovation and flexibility, executives will be better prepared to win in turbulent times.

“The programme’s methodology, including group discussions, self-reflection, and peer-to-peer learning, will enhance participants’ ability to lead through uncertainty and drive their organisations toward future success,” she said.

Lucas asserted that by participating in this programme, executives will enhance their strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

“The immersive learning experience, guided by Prof. Paul Griffith and other distinguished faculty, will challenge assumptions and stimulate innovative thinking.

“Interactive activities such as case studies, assessments, and role-playing will deepen understanding and enable the application of new concepts in real-world scenarios.

“The ultimate goal of the TEXEM programme is to equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to inspire sustainable growth and long-term prosperity,” she said.

Lucas added that by fostering adaptability, amplifying purpose, and balancing short-term efficiency with long-term resilience, participants would drive their organisations toward enduring success.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Razak Owolabi

By Okeoghene Akubuike

Nigeria has about 40.2 million agricultural households, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)  has said.

This was made known at the unveiling of the National Agricultural Sample Census (NASC) 2022 in Abuja on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the census was conducted by the NBS in partnership with the World Bank, Food and Agriculture Organisation and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. 

The report revealed that out of the 91 per cent of agricultural households that cultivated crops, 35 per cent practised only crop cultivation while 48 per cent reported raising any type of livestock.

It showed that 16 per cent of the households raised 58 million cattle, while 41.2 per cent raised about 124 million goats.

“While 42.5 per cent raised poultry, most commonly chickens, while five per cent practised fisheries.”

The report showed that the lowest percentage of agricultural households into Crop Cultivation was recorded in Lagos State at 48.0 per cent, while Ebonyi recorded the highest at 99.5 per cent.

It showed the highest percentage of agricultural households engaged in Livestock Production was reported in Jigawa at 84.2 per cent, followed by Bauchi at 79.7 per cent .

The report said for Poultry, the highest percentage of agricultural households was recorded in Benue at 65.2 per cent, followed by Ebonyi State at 63.3 per cent.

Bishop Ohioma, Assistant Director, Agricultural and Business Enterprises Statistics Department, NBS, while giving an overview of the report, said the survey has two components which include the listing component and the sample survey component.

Ohioma said the listing component was what was being unveiled while the sample survey component would be unveiled in a few months.

He said the census provided a robust dataset that would support agricultural interventions programmes, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

He said the NASC listing was conducted using digitised Enumeration Area (EA) maps in all the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT.

Ohioma said 767 Local Government Areas (LGAS) in the country were canvassed, however, seven LGAs were not covered as at the time of the Census, following insecurity concerns.

He said the uncovered LGAs were four LGAs in Imo state and three LGAs in Borno state.

Ohioma said 40 EAs were covered in each LGA and the number of EAs covered varied by state, both urban and rural EAs were covered.

“In all, 30,546 EAs were covered nationwide out of the proposed 30,960. ”

He said one of the recommendations from the report include the need for Government to allocate more resources to support the conduct of the quarterly and annual National Agricultural Sample Survey (NASS).

Ohioma said the report also recommended Technical and financial Partners to sustain support in the conduct of quarterly and annual surveys.

“Technical and financial Partners to continuously provide support to build capacity of staff of the NBS in agricultural statistics production.

“All hands must be on deck to ensure the sustainability of the NASC in Nigeria.”(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza