NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Projects fail without social impact checks, mentoring — Expert warns
General News

Projects fail without social impact checks, mentoring — Expert warns

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By Magdalene Ukuedojor

A sociologist, Dr Mohammed Abubakar, has harped on the need for effective social impact assessment (SIA) of projects to curb failure, abandonment and unsustainable initiatives across the country.

Abubakar, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, said SIA would enable organisations make informed decisions, manage risks, and maximise the positive outcomes of their initiatives.

“SIA is very important in projects because if you want to achieve any project, you need to understudy the projects; you need to understand what are the possible challenges in the project.

“What would be its impact with stakeholders; that’s the people you are doing the project for.

“So, before you start a project, you need to have those knowledge and SIA is a programme from the beginning to the end of the project.

“In fact, after the project you monitor again and see if what you’ve done has impacted the lives of the people or stakeholders living there.

“So that’s the major importance of SIA because it prevents delay in the work.

“You get the knowledge on how to stop delay, you get the knowledge of how this project will be qualitative, you get the knowledge on how people of that area will utilise the project very well.

“This social impact, it can be environmental, it can be social, it can be- all impact assessments can be done using different research methods and others.

“That is why most projects in Nigeria are being abandoned because there’s no proper SIA.

“And if there are, the recommendations of the research or study or SIA results are not followed.

“If they are not followed, definitely you find out that projects are being abandoned because people felt they could finish in one month and it’s about a 12-month project; it has to be abandoned.”

The SIA expert also explained the role of mentoring in enhancing knowledge sharing while also advancing continuation and sustainability of projects.

“Mentoring is very important. If you don’t mentor, there won’t be continuity.

“So, one of the major things is you mentor because you want this thing to be impactful.

“You want the projects to be continuous; you want the projects to be sustained.

“If you don’t mentor, the next person will come and start afresh and this will be abandoned.

“Sometimes in Nigeria, people find it difficult to mentor others because they feel they will rub shoulders with them.

“But mentoring in most developed world is key to every project and that is the only thing that will sustain projects.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Keyamo calls for sustainable practices to mitigate climate change
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Keyamo calls for sustainable practices to mitigate climate change

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo has called for improved sustainable practices to mitigate climate change in Nigeria.

Keyamo said this in his keynote address at the public presentation of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) in Abuja.

The theme of the event was, “The role of early warnings towards a climate resilient aviation industry for sustainable socio-economic development.”

According to the minister, the Federal Government will continue to invest in sustainable practices, strengthen infrastructure, and support communities that are most vulnerable to climate change impacts.

“Our seasonal climate predictions are not just about forecasting, they are about shaping our response to challenges ahead.

“As we celebrate the 2025 SCP document, let us recognise that its true value lies in its application.

“I urge all stakeholders present here today—government agencies, non-governmental organisations, private sector actors, civil society organisations, researchers, and the media to champion the use of the SCP in their respective domains.

“Collaboration and information sharing will be key to maximising its impact.

“Challenges posed by climate change demand innovative solution.

“The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, through NiMet, will remain at the forefront of these efforts.”

 According to him, the nation can build a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration with the support of policymakers and industry leaders.

According to him, the aviation industry faces increasing challenges from erratic weather patterns to the growing frequency of extreme events, which directly impacts airline operations as climate change continues to reshape the planet.

Keyamo said that aviation remained a weather sensitive sector, adding that decisions on flight plans, take-off and landing were not made without first considering the weather conditions.

“Adverse weather – thunderstorms, squalls, wind shear, heavy rainfall, flash floods, sandstorms, dust haze, fog among others, are some of the greatest challenges in aviation, resulting in flight delays, injuries, economic losses including loss of lives and property. 

“The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that global flight delays due to weather conditions have been on the increase, jumping from 11 per cent in 2012 to 30 per cent of total flight delays in 2023.

“According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation, while turbulence has long been a leading cause of injuries in-flight, scientific evidence suggests there may be more severe weather patterns brought about by climate change which can lead to more turbulence-related accidents.”

 The minister said that the effects of climate change had negative impact on the aviation industry.

According to him, early warning systems, backed by robust climate predictions, are essential to overcoming stated challenges and ensuring safety, efficiency and sustainability of air navigation business.

Keyamo said NiMet’s SCP played a pivotal role by empowering stakeholders with the knowledge to anticipate and adapt to climatic changes, ensuring that aviation operations remained uninterrupted and that lives and property were safeguarded.

He added that an enhanced resilient aviation sector contributed to broader socio-economic goals, including trade facilitation, tourism, and regional connectivity.

“The SCP document we are unveiling today is a critical tool for informed decision-making.

“It offers insights into expected weather and climate patterns, equipping various sectors with the foresight needed to plan, mitigate risks, and harness opportunities.

“Agriculture, disaster risk management, health, marine operations, transport and especially aviation are among the many domains that will benefit from this invaluable resource and advisory.

“Timely climate predictions will enable, inter alia; farmers to optimise farming schedules thereby improving the nation’s food system security,” he said.

According to him, the document will also help disaster managers to prepare for emergencies and minimise risks and health authorities to anticipate disease outbreaks linked to weather and climate variations.

“These underscore the interconnectedness of weather, climate, and socio-economic resilience.

“Over recent years, we have continued to observe unprecedented weather patterns that have tested our preparedness and resilience.

“From consistent warmer-than-normal temperatures to flash floods, the extremes of our climate are increasingly evident.

“These events serve as reminders that we must remain vigilant and proactive,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Chioma Ugboma

NDLEA canvasses effective sensitisation against drug abuse, commends BRAVE-IT
General News

NDLEA canvasses effective sensitisation against drug abuse, commends BRAVE-IT

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)’s Chairman, Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has called for effective sensitisation of youths in the country to the inherent danger of drug abuse.
Marwa made the call at the 2025 Building Resilience Against Violent Extremism, Insurgency and Terrorism (BRAVE-IT) Meeting on National Security in Abuja
The theme of the meeting is, “Pathways to Inter-Agency Collaboration and Citizens Cooperation in the Fight against Kidnapping, Insurgency and Terrorism in Nigeria”.
Marwa said that the rising link between drug abuse, youth radicalisation and terrorism in Nigeria was becoming alarming.
The NDLEA chairman said that drug trafficking had become a lucrative funding source for criminal gangs and insurgents, who exploit porous borders and weak community systems to move narcotics across regions.
Marwa, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Drug Demand Reduction, Muhammed Ibrahim, said that extremist and terrorist groups now actively exploit unemployed and drug-dependent youths to further their criminal aims.
“Therefore, there is the absolute need for multi-agency collaboration, grassroots empowerment and effective sensitisation for the youths to be aware of the dangers of drug abuse and shun the evil practice.
“This is because, extremist and terrorist groups often prey on unemployed and drug-dependent youths, offering them drugs and a false sense of purpose.
“Some insurgents and suicide bombers are deliberately drugged before operations to suppress fear and conscience.
“Hence, effective sensitisation by all stakeholders for the youths is very important to reduce and eliminate the menace of drug abuse, crimes and insurgency in the country,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA chairman commended BRAVE-IT, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) for its unwavering commitment to empowering vulnerable communities to resist violent extremism, terrorism, and insurgency.
He said that policy advocacy for stronger border control, signing of MoUs with countries for intelligence sharing, capacity building of personnel and regulation of pharmaceuticals are evidence-based prevention programmes.
“The youths are most vulnerable, therefore, we speak the language they understand, that is social media, NDLEA is active on Facebook, Instagram and X; we have our 24/7 free toll call centre for people who need help on drug abuse.
“Under the current leadership, NDLEA has seized over 10 million different types of illicit drugs, arrested over 57,000 suspects, secured over 10,000 convictions, counselled and rehabilitate over 22,000 individuals,” Marwa said.
In his address, the National Coordinator of BRAVE-IT, Sir AK Peters, commended the NDLEA and other security agencies for their commitment.
Peters, however, called for greater citizen engagement and agency synergy as essential to defeat terrorism and insecurity.
According to him, the annual security roundtable is a platform for open dialogue and strategic direction.
He blamed the current security crisis in the country to the failure of previous governments to adequately address the issue.
Peters said that security could not be left to the military or police alone, but must involve every arm of government, civil society, and citizens.
“Our goal, basically, is to have residents of vulnerable communities build and develop the requisite resilience against these vices and criminals, and join hands with security agencies to flush them out from our system.
“Our armed forces and security agencies have the capability to end this war, but collaboration, political will, and sustained community engagement are key to long-term national peace and stability,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser, Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, National Assembly.
The participants at the event all restated their commitments to eradicating drug abuse and crime. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bayo Sekoni
NELFUND resumes upkeep disbursements to students
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NELFUND resumes upkeep disbursements to students

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By Funmilayo Adeyemi

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has commenced the disbursement of upkeep to students that have updated their bank accounts from digital wallet platforms to commercial banks.

This is contained in a statement in Abuja on Friday by the Director, Strategic Communications of the Fund, Mrs Oseyemi Oluwatuyi.

According to Oluwatuyi, this development marks a significant breakthrough in resolving earlier disbursement delays.

“Over 3,600 students, who previously registered with digital-only banking platforms, have now successfully received their backlog of upkeep payments after updating their details to conventional commercial bank accounts on the NELFUND portal.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected students during this period. Your resilience and cooperation have made this progress possible,” she said.

Oluwatuyi advised students yet to update their bank details to raise a support ticket via the official NELFUND portal to request access for updating their bank details.

She also urged the affected students to report through the IT office of their institutions, which would compile and forward all related cases to NELFUND for resolution.

“NELFUND remains committed to ensuring that no eligible student is left behind.

”This resolution process is part of our broader effort to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and student-centered delivery of our support services,” she added.

Oluwatuyi urged all students to continue engaging only through official NELFUND channels, and to assist peers who may require help navigating the update process.

She said that the fund can be reached through its email at info@nelf.gov.ng or its official social media platforms.

The platforms are X @nelfund; Instagram @nelfund; and Facebook & LinkedIn: Nigerian Education Loan Fund– NELFUND.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

FG urged to link Warri-Itakpe rail to inland ports, road networks
General News

FG urged to link Warri-Itakpe rail to inland ports, road networks

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By Reporters

Stakeholders in the transportation sector have called on the Federal Government to link the Warri-Itakpe standard gauge rail line to inland ports and road networks to create seamless multimodal transport system.

They made the call while responding to a national survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on the state of railway lines in the country.

Inaugurated for commercial operation in Sept. 2020, after more than three decades delay, the 326km Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri standard gauge rail line currently connects Warri in Delta State to Itakpe in Kogi State.

The rail line was originally designed to transport iron ore and coal from Itakpe to Ajaokuta Steel Mill and Aladja Steel Rolling Mills in Delta.

Since its inauguration, the rail line has  facilitated the movement of goods and passengers between the southern and northern parts of Nigeria.

Speaking with NAN in Lokoja, Mr Shittu Adams, a retired Director in Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), said the railway line should be integrated with existing waterway and road networks, along the corridor, to create seamless transport system.

Adams said the integration of the rail line would facilitate more efficient cargo and passenger transportation and enhance trade, economic growth, and overall connectivity.

He said that the integration would allow for seamless transfer of goods between the railway and the waterway transportation system in the region.

Adams also urged the federal government to integrate the rail line with existing road networks, particularly in Warri and other key locations, to ensure efficient transfer of goods and passengers to and from the rail line.

The director decried the high level of bureaucracy and poor governance leading to inefficient management and lack of transparency in the management of the rail infrastructure.

He said that the challenges contributed to the delays and underperformance of services rendered along the corridor.

Adams also faulted the outdated signaling systems, ticketing processes, and operational logistics which, according to him, are affecting speed and efficiency of the rail operations.

“There is the need for training and retraining of personnel in modern rail operations to enhance efficiency and safety.

“I will also suggest long-term and consistent government policies, that will attract investment and provide a clear direction for rail sector growth in general,” he said.

He urged the federal government to provide a clear and enabling regulatory framework that would encourage private investment and ensures safety standards in the railway operations.

Speaking in the same veins, Mr Taiye Bolaji, the Director Road Maintenance, Kogi State Ministry of Works, said the Warri-Itakpe rail line, like most others, connects only a few major cities and do not reach key agricultural or industrial hubs.

He said the Warri-Itakpe rail line has not connected the Lokoja metropolis and Obajana,  where Dangote Cement Plant and Mangal Cement Plant are located.

Bolaji, therefore, advocated  the expansion of the rail network to connect key agricultural zones, seaports, mining areas, and industrial cluster, in order to improve the  movement of raw materials and finished goods.

He appealed to the federal government to expedite the extension of the railway line to Lokoja,  Kogi state capital and a home to an inland port, for seamless transfer of goods and people.

Bolaji said that, from Lokoja, the rail line should be extended to Abuja, thereby connecting the northern part of the country to the southern region.

According to him, the integrated transportation system will boost economic activities, reduce  transportation costs, and create new opportunities.

Dr Simeon Omakoji, former Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Chairman in Kogi, said the major challenges facing railway transport in Nigeria are corruption and inability to factor regular maintenance.

Omakoji,  the incumbent Chairman, Kogi East Security Neighborhood Watch, advocated for improved maintenance culture, e-ticketing and more transparent financial management in the railway operations.

He stressed the need for people to invest in the railway system, while the government develop the political will to make the system work effectively.

Another stakeholder, Mr Ukwunetu Samuel-Ali, said Nigeria’s rail infrastructure used to be a symbol of prosperity and connectedness.

He said the rail infrastructure was, however, for many years, subjected to neglect and under investment resulting in vandalism and encroachment of tracks and other infrastructure.

Samuel-Ali, therefore, urged the federal government to sustain the initiative to revitalise and modernise the rail network across the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mohammed Baba Busu/ Rotimi Ijikanmi

Why NRC suspends railway operations in Niger 
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Why NRC suspends railway operations in Niger 

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By Reporters

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has attributed the suspension of operations on some of its rail lines to insecurity, banditry and vandalism of its rail tracks.

Mr John Otivere, an official of the NRC in Niger, disclosed this in Minna in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the state of railway infrastructure across the country.

NAN reports that Otivere spoke on behalf of Mrs Blessing Okanezi, District Rail Superintendent, NRC, Minna

Otivere, explained that the challenges of insecurity and vandalism had forced the corporation to halt operations on some routes.

He clarified that the narrow gauge rail lines was not abandoned, rather, the operations have been hindered by security challenges.

“Our lines are not abandoned, our train originates from Lagos down to Kano and returns from Kano down to Lagos,” he said.

The NRC official said the locations mostly  affected by insecurity were Gwada, Sarkin-Pawa to Kuchi in Niger down to Gaddani towards Gwadada in Kaduna state.

He added that the train station in Gaddani, a border community between Niger and Kaduna had been closed for a long time now due to activities of bandits.

He added that Wushishi, Pakara and Akere also experienced the same challenges, adding that its last operations was in Dec. 2022.

Also speaking, Mr Femi Adewakun, District Internal Auditor, NRC in Niger, said the district carried out regular maintenance of its locomotive engines and rail lines.

Adewakun who also spoke on behalf of Alhaji Suleiman Obafun,  Railway District Manager (RDM), in Niger, underscored the importance of rail network to the country’s economy and the need to prioritise the services.

“Here, we operate narrow gauge and we have always carry out maintenance of all our locomotive engines and rail lines inspection on daily basis,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Akin Atanda, District Civil Engineer, NRC in Niger, highlighted the impact of vandalism and banditry activities on railway operations.

He said that some locations had been completely taken over by bandits making it impossible to carry out maintenance or operate trains safely.

Atanda said that vandals had been removing tracks fastenings in some locations such as Beji axis.

“Some of the vandals were arrested and taken to court, while some are in prison,” he said.

He also cited the issue of washout of rail lines, particularly in Mokwa where erosions had removed some complete tracks.

Atanda said the combination of these challenges had affected train operations in the areas.

He emphasised the importance of safety in railway operations and the need to address the challenges hindering the operations. (NAN)(www.nannewd.ng)

Edited by Mohammed Baba Busu/Rotimi Ijikanmi

Corrupt politicians now hide loot in cryptocurrencies – EFCC
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Corrupt politicians now hide loot in cryptocurrencies – EFCC

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By Akeem Abas

Mr Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has alleged that some corrupt politicians now conceal stolen public funds in cryptocurrencies to evade detection and prosecution.

He made the allegation during an AU Anti-Corruption Day event on Thursday in Ibadan.

Olukoyede, represented by the Commission’s  Acting Zonal Director in its Ibadan office, Hajiya Hauwa Ringim, said that virtual assets were becoming preferred channel for hiding illicit wealth.

He described virtual assets as digital monetary representations that could be traded or transferred, stressing that while not criminal, they become dangerous when used fraudulently.

Olukoyede lamented Africa’s growing loss to illicit financial flows, listing money laundering and digital fraud schemes as major threats to the continent’s development.

He said that the EFCC had observed an alarming increase in politicians using cryptocurrency wallets to store unexplained wealth and facilitate fraudulent investment activities.

The EFCC boss said that the agency was addressing the challenge with training and intelligence.

According to him, the commission’s efforts resulted in breakthroughs like the CBEX investment scam investigation as well as prosecution.

Olukoyede warned investors against negligence, saying most scams succeeded due to lack of due diligence and delayed reporting of suspicious transactions to relevant authorities.

He said that ponzi schemes remain widespread, with desperate investors easily falling prey to enticing but fake digital investment promises.

The commission’s chairman said that virtual assets fraud could be prevented through public awareness, proactive measures and stakeholder engagement by anti-graft agencies as well as regulators.

Olukoyede added that understanding digital fraud was crucial, urging citizens to acquire knowledge and report shady schemes before they escalate into national scandals.

A professor of Criminology from the University of Ibadan, Oludayo Tade, said Nigerians must beware of unrealistic digital investment promises that signal fraud.

He advised Nigerians to avoid schemes offering suspiciously high returns, warning that 50 per cent profit within a week are clear signs of deceit.

The don said that fraudsters exploit the image of celebrities as well as influencers to build trust and deceive unsuspecting investors across media platforms.

He called on government agencies to expand public awareness of red flags, warning that many victims often fell for similar scams repeatedly due to ignorance.

The criminologist urged authorities to fund investigative efforts and punish offenders, saying fraud prevention was more effective than belated enforcement actions.

The event had in attendance, the Special Adviser to the Oyo Governor on Security, retired CP Fatai Owoseni, Security Commanders, Civil society organisations, students, youth groups among other stakeholders.(NAN)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Lagos assembly moves to regulate marriages
General News

Lagos assembly moves to regulate marriages

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By Adekunle Williams

The Lagos State House of Assembly has proposed a bill to streamline marriage documentation and ensure proper records for marriages and dissolutions across the state.

 

During Thursday’s plenary, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa disclosed this at the Second Reading of the Marriage and Dissolutions (Except Marriages under the Marriage Act) (Registration) Bill, 2025.

 

Obasa stressed the importance of continually making laws that protect both spouses and children in marriage arrangements.

 

He said the bill is titled: ‘A Bill for a Law to Provide for the Registration of Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage (Except Marriage under the Act) in Lagos State and for Other Connected Matters’.

 

Obasa then referred the bill to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC for further legislative scrutiny.

 

Explaining the bill earlier, Mr Oladipo Ajomale, Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, said many marriage-related legal issues stem from unclear documentation.

 

Ajomale (Oshodi-Isolo II) said: “If passed, this bill will simplify legal procedures related to marriage registration and dissolution in the state.”

 

He added that it would assist embassies and foreign missions in verifying marital status during visa applications.

 

Ajomale also noted the bill would ensure uniform marriage records across the IBILE division — Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.

 

Mr Abiodun Tobun (Epe I) described the bill as a progressive step aligned with modern standards of marriage regulation.

 

Tobun noted that the bill would clarify the rights of both husband and wife under customary marriage.

 

He said the law empowers partners to enter and exit marriages within the boundaries of legality.

 

However, he raised concerns about people who meddle in marriage proceedings and urged the inclusion of penalties for such interference.

 

Mr Solomon Bonu (Badagry I) emphasised the need for a proper database, aligning the state with global marriage registration standards.

 

Bonu said any dissolution of marriage must be sanctioned by a court to ensure legality and fairness.

 

He also suggested penalties for single mothers who exit marriages without legal recourse and husbands who shirk marital duties.

 

Mr Moshood Aro (Ikorodu II) remarked that the bill would give clearer legal structure to male responsibilities in marriage.

 

Aro also proposed that the law should permit distance marriages through established legal means, including cross-border unions.

 

Ms Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos Island I) highlighted the importance of child welfare in marital laws and urged provisions for full child support.

 

She said this was especially needed in broken marriages to ensure minors are properly cared for under the law. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
Women journalists join in amplifying voices against drug abuse
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Women journalists join in amplifying voices against drug abuse

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By Justina Auta

The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, Thursday, said it is positioned to join the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating drug abuse.

This was made known by Chairperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of NAWOJ, Mrs Bassey Ita-Ikpang, during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of NDLEA, Mohammed Buba-Marwa.

She called for more sensitisation on the dangers of drug abuse, as well as the need to promote a stigma-free reporting of drug-related issues.

“As women journalists, we are increasingly troubled by the spike in substance abuse cases, especially involving women and girls.

“These stories often go underreported or are handled in ways that reinforce stereotypes, shame, or fear,” she said.

Ita-Ikpang said that the chapter will hold a one-day intensive training for 100 female journalists across the FCT on how to report cases of drug abuse without elements of stigmatisation.

She added that the exercise is aimed at reshaping public narratives and encouraging rehabilitation and support for victims of drug abuse, rather than condemnation.

“We believe that through this partnership with NDLEA, we can equip journalists with the tools and language necessary to report drug abuse compassionately and constructively.

“We are confident that this model can become a national standard for media-agency collaboration on sensitive issues,” she added.

In his response, Buba-Marwa, who was represented by NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi, said that the initiative will aid in combating drug abuse in the country.

“The statistics are alarming; 14.3 million Nigerians abuse illicit substances, which is nearly three times the global average.

“We know that we cannot win this war alone, and that is why the NDLEA launched the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign,” he said.

He, therefore, pledged to escalate NAWOJ’s proposal to NDLEA’s international and local partners, in order to secure support and funding for the training initiative.

“We recognise the importance of the media in this fight, and we will explore all avenues to make this partnership a reality,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Sandra Umeh

Nigeria to hold first national steel summit
General News

Nigeria to hold first national steel summit

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By Martha Agas

Nigeria is set to host its first National Steel Summit to rebuild and unlock the country’s steel potential.

The summit is expected to position Nigeria as a leading steel hub in Sub-Saharan Africa and significantly boost the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuiabu Abubakar, revealed this at a news conference on Thursday in Abuja, ahead of the summit.

The summit with the theme `Rebuilding and Consolidating Nigeria’s Steel Industry: Collaborative Action for Sustainable Growth and Global Competitiveness` is scheduled to hold from July 16 to 17 in Abuja.

Abubakar said the summit would provide a platform for stakeholders in the sector to appraise the current status of the industry and explore investment opportunities.

He said they would also identify policy and infrastructure gaps and adopt a common roadmap for the revival and sustainable growth of Nigeria’s steel sector.

According to him, stakeholders will have a common platform to discuss areas of mutual collaboration, especially in market promotion and shared infrastructure to boost competitive production.

He said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu was determined to ensure the emergence of a virile steel industry in Nigeria, especially given the country’s abundant raw materials available in commercial quantities nationwide.

He explained that the government’s mandate includes repositioning the sector to reduce heavy imports by promoting local processing, as well as strengthening the industry’s presence in local and international markets.

The minister added that the summit would further guide the government on its mandate to set and monitor standards for steel products to prevent structural failures in Nigeria’s construction sector.

“The present Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Tinubu is already pushing the right buttons to ensure the emergence of a virile steel industry in Nigeria along these key mandate instructions.

“That there is utilisation of the abundant steel raw materials in Nigeria for the substitution of imported steel products which has been draining our foreign exchange to the tune of over 4billion US dollars per annum.

“That we enthrone a regulatory regime that would ensure sustainable Steel and Non-Ferrous Metals production in Nigeria for both local and international markets.

“That we set and monitor quality standards for local and foreign steel products to eradicate structural failures in different construction projects in Nigeria.

“This will generate massive employment for our teeming youths and promote technology transfer for Nigeria’s economic development,” he said.

According to him, in the past 20 months, the Tinubu administration is already recording notable milestones, vigour in the resuscitation of the assets such as the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL) and the National Iron Ore Mining Company.

He explained that the government has awarded a contract for the technical and financial audit of the ASLC, which has already commenced.

He said the report was expected to determine the exact current state of the Ajaokuta company and the resources required to revive it after more than 20 years in a comatose state.

Abubakar noted that the Tinubu`s administration was implementing economic policies which was renewing investors’ confidence in the sector.

He said that this has led to the Stellar Steel Company Limited committing investment of 400million US dollars for the establishment of steel facility for the production of hot rolled coils/plates.

Similarly, he said, the Orbit Fabrication/Galvanising Works Limited had unveiled a 50,000 tonnes galvanising plant valued at about $100million amongst other new investments into the sector.

According to the minister, the technical sessions and panel discussions during the event will examine critical areas of the industry from diverse perspectives, including requirements to resuscitation of the country’s legacy steel projects.

The minister stated that repositioning the steel industry would have a multiplier effect on Nigeria’s economy, benefiting sectors such as construction, automobile and manufacturing, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

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