NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
BAT reaffirms commitment to diversity, equity with female director appointment

BAT reaffirms commitment to diversity, equity with female director appointment

185 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

British American Tobacco Nigeria (BAT Nigeria) has appointed Mrs Kikelomo Fisayo-Okusanya as Marketing Deployment Director for the West and Central Africa Cluster (WCA).

Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director, BAT Nigeria, made this known in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

He said the company, a multinational organisation operating in more than 180 markets, acknowledges that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) constitute a pivotal organisational asset.

Al-Bahrani noted that these elements empowered the company to attract and retain top-tier talents while delivering exceptional products and services to its global consumer base.

He said the appointment was in line with the company’s striking demonstration of commitment to global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) agenda and talent development.

He stated that her appointment aligned with her induction into BAT’s West and Central Africa leadership team, making her the second woman to join the cluster’s leadership team.

According to him, the recent addition of a second female executive to the WCA leadership team demonstrates the company’s commitment to achieving 40 per cent female representation in senior leadership.

He added that the development was also in line with the company’s move to achieve 45 per cent in management roles by 2025, thereby promoting inclusivity and gender equality at the management level.

“BAT Nigeria is committed to a better tomorrow and fostering inclusive work environment that is encouraging different perspectives and ideas, ultimately leading to better decision-making and business outcomes.

“We are thrilled to welcome to the leadership team, our new Marketing Deployment Director and we look forward to the experience she will bring.

“A seasoned marketing strategist with over two decades of experience in the ever-evolving marketing landscape, Fisayo-Okusanya joined BAT Nigeria in 2003 as a trade marketing representative.

“Since then, she has built a stellar marketing career honing valuable expertise in trade marketing, brands, and activation throughout West and Central Africa.

“In her capacity as Area Head for 360 Activation and Marketing Operations, she left her indelible mark by pioneering an immersive virtual reality market experience.

“She also orchestrated a major overhaul of the Marketing Skills and Development Unit,” he said.

Al-Bahrani said the company would continue to do its best, following its recognition as a Global Top Employer in Nigeria and West Africa and was awarded the Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Award.

He added that BAT Nigeria also emerged overall winner of the 2022 HR Oscars award by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria(CIPM).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that before the appointment, Fisayo-Okusanya’s former role was Area Head, 360 Activation and Marketing Operations, BAT Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Group advocates women inclusion in peace building process

Group advocates women inclusion in peace building process

188 total views today

By Esther Mamudu

Some activists have advocated the inclusion of women in the peace-building process and national cohesion.

They made the call at a symposium titled “The Role of Women in Peace Building as Mediators and in Reconciliation”.

The symposium was organised by a Non-Governmental Organisation, One Percent International Management and Advocacy Initiative” to mark the 2023 International Day of Peace.

The Chief Executive Officer of the NGO, Stephanie Nnadi, said the event was planned to give women a chance to discuss and reflect on topics that would enable them participate actively as mediators.

“In a world marked by unprecedented challenges and conflicts.

”Today is significant to us as we know that all over the world, dialogue will be on the way forward and how to deal with the challenges confronting us as a nation and as global citizens,” she said.

The UN Ambassador of Peace, Adaora Onyechere called for immediate action to put an end to what she termed “atrocities” committed against women in African countries.

Onyechere, also a broadcast journalist, said: “This day is also in remembrance of Leah Shiabu’s, the over 6,000 persons killed in Cameroon crisis from 2006 till date.

”Half of those numbers are women and the over 2.6 million persons displaced in Sierra Leone.

“Over 70 per cent women and children and with over 1.9 million displaced persons in Nigeria, the burden bearers mostly women and children.

”According to UNHCR’s estimations, over 117.2 million people will be forcibly displaced or stateless by end of .2023.,” she said.

Onyechere said women had always been the burden bearers of terrorism, displacement, community clashes, banditry and wars.

She said it’s has become empirical to be deliberate about mainstreaming women in the process of peace thereby leading to national cohesion.

The Executive Director, International Society of Media in Public Health, Moji Makanjuola, urged  women never to refrain from playing their roles in peace building.(NAN)

 

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Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Isaac Aregbesola

FG donates foods, agricultural inputs to IDPs in FCT

FG donates foods, agricultural inputs to IDPs in FCT

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By Jacinta Nwachukwu

The Federal Government on Tuesday donated food and non-food items worth millions of naira to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Presenting the items to the IDPs in Abuja, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, said the donation was to commemorate the 2023 Independence Day celebration.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the beneficiaries of the donations were displaced persons at Durumi, New Karshi and Wassa IDP camps in the FCT.

The displaced persons are predominantly from Gwoza in Borno and Adamawa among others who relocated to Abuja, sequel to their displacement as a result of Boko Haram insurgency in the North East.

Addressing the IDPs, Ahmed reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s resolve towards ensuring inclusiveness and assured that the commission would continue to drive innovation and actively seek sustainable solutions for all persons of concern.

“Today, we gather in Durumi, Abuja, on a mission to extend a helping hand to those residing in the Durumi IDPs Camp. Our purpose is to critical support in the form of agricultural inputs, educational supplies and food care packs.

“As our nation celebrates its 63rd Independence Day, we renew our unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Our resolve is clear: no one, regardless of their gender, age, or vulnerabilities, should be left without vital support, echoing the President’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda.

“The importance of providing assistance to IDPs cannot be overstated. Neglecting those in displacement can have profound social and economic consequences for both the displaced and their host communities,” he said.

According to him, in the face of protracted displacement crises that often affect IDPs, ensuring access to assistance during such times is of utmost importance.

“In keeping with the commission’s sustainable solutions strategy and our dedication to the well-being of host communities, we are proud to announce the provision of essential agricultural inputs.

“These initiatives aim to empower our displaced population, many of whom are skilled farmers, to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

“Furthermore, we are equally committed to providing Educational Supplies to ensure that IDP children and adolescents have access to learning materials, facilitating their educational growth and development.

“Additionally, we are distributing food care packs to alleviate immediate hunger and provide much-needed sustenance to those in need,” he said.

The educational materials donated included 400 dozens of customised exercise books, 180 pieces of school sandals, 10 pieces of white board
and 10 pieces of white board dusters.

Others are 180 pieces of customised school bags, 180 pieces of customised plastic tables and chairs, biros and pencils.

The IDPs were also given agricultural inputs such as 26 pieces of pesticides, 26 pieces of herbicides, 26 pieces of insecticides, 86 sprayers and 25 irrigation pumps.

While the food items were 97 bags of 25kg rice, 97 cartons of spaghetti, 97 bags of 1kg Semovita, 20 cartons of vegetable oil, 26 cartons of seasoning and 22 cartons of salt.

On behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of Durumi Camp, Ibrahim Ahmad, appreciated the Federal Government for the donations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Benson Iziama/Julius Toba-Jegede

FG reiterates commitment to improving life, wellbeing of Nigerians

233 total views today

 

 

Dr Betta Edu, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. (NAN)
Dr Betta Edu, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. (NAN)

 

By Sarafina Christopher/Fortune Abang

The Federal Government on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of Nigerians with focus on harnessing the potential of an ageing population.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, said this in her address at the International Day of Older Persons ceremony at the UN House in Abuja.

The event with the theme: “Fulfilling the promise of the universal declaration of human rights for older persons across generations’’ was organised by the UN and the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC).

Edu commended the establishment of the NSCC by the NSCC Act 2017 to promote mainstreaming of older persons in the delivery of positive outcomes for the aged.

She also assured that President Bola Tinubu’s move to reposition the ministry demonstrated the government’s political will to develop mechanisms and achieve the desired goals.

According to her, such would ensure sustainable systems to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of Nigerians, as well as progressively lift 133million Nigerians out of poverty.

Edu said, “The NSCC remains the veritable agency to consolidate opportunities for the older population, in partnership with the various Ministries, Department and Agencies through multi-sectoral coordination.

“The present administration will ensure adequate support; persuasion of the state governments to domesticate the NSCC Act , VApp Act, Persons with Disability Act and National Health Authority Act.

“The present administration will focus on harnessing the potential of an aging population, combat ageism and negative stereotypes and close the gaps and inconsistencies in data.

“It would focus on research, human capital development and continue to create systems capable of supporting older persons, including age friendly environments, universal health coverage and long term care systems,” she said.

Speaking, Mr Matthias Schmale, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, reassured of UN’s support for Nigeria in the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons.

Schmale commended the event to have been tailored to provide opportunity for reflection on the impact of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the protection of the rights of older persons.

“It is my sincere hope that today’s dialogue will allow for reflections on effective promotion and protection of older persons in Nigeria, focusing on their contributions throughout their life, for the knowledge and expertise they can pass on to younger generations.

“As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, the UN in Nigeria is committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts towards enhancing the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons.

“Especially, older persons living in vulnerable situations and making the promise of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights a reality for all Nigerians,’’ Schmale said.

The Director-General of NSCC, Dr Emem Omokaro, identified universally declared rights of older persons to include right to life, liberty, and security of person, freedom from discrimination, abuse, violence and torture.

Others are, right to work and education; and right to participate in cultural, social, and political life of their country and right to economic empowerment, access to justice, disability and age friendly environment.

“Today, we wish to present highlights of IE’s Report and Nigeria’s response, and have a multi-sectoral panel of discussants to make inputs.

“The outcome we hope will enhance understanding of opportunities and challenges of older persons.

“To strengthen partnerships and technical support, increased aging mainstreaming in multi-sector plans, the SDGs, equity and solidarity across generations,’’ Omokaro said.

Highpoint of the event was discussion on 75years of universal declaration of human rights, analysing Nigeria’s efforts, gaps and solutions, and rights of older persons, solidarity equity and reciprocity across generations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Halima Sheji

 

One Chance: Police warn FCT residents against boarding unpainted taxis

One Chance: Police warn FCT residents against boarding unpainted taxis

196 total views today

By Isaac Aregbesola

The FCT Police Command has advised the residents to be wary of boarding unpainted taxis, otherwise known as ‘kabu-kabu,’ to avoid becoming victims of armed robbers, also known as ‘One Chance’.

The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, CP Haruna Garba, gave the warning on Tuesday, in Abuja at a news briefing on the command’s achievements in the fight against crime and criminality.

“I wish to advise residents of the FCT to be wary of the kind of vehicles they board. It is advised that they should board only painted taxis from designated motor parks.

“It is risky to board an unpainted taxis otherwise known as ‘kabu-kabu’ as they may fall victims of these robbers known as One Chance,” he said.

Garba said that police operatives in Abuja, while on crime prevention patrol, rescued one Ebere Alice, who boarded a Golf taxi and was robbed by the driver and the gang members of her belongings before dropping her off.

He said that the police gave the hoodlums a hot chase, halted the vehicle and arrested three suspects.

“They include Sylvester Attah, the gang leader, who has been into One Chance robbery for the past three years, Olalekan Salihu, and Gabriel Okwashi.

“The suspects confessed to the crime and the Golf car with Reg. No TKP 624 AA used in committing the crime was recovered. Suspects will be arraigned in court at the conclusion of investigation,” he said.

Garba said that police operatives from Mabushi Division, acting on a credible intelligence, also arrested one Samuel Vincent, a member of a robbery gang, who specialises in robbing unsuspecting taxi passengers of their belongings.

“The suspect was about to be lynched by an angry mob before Police intervention.

‘’The suspect, alongside three others currently at large, had picked a woman (name unknown) from Karmo heading to Lugbe, and then diverted the vehicle to Mabushi area and dispossessed the victim of her belongings.

“The suspect confessed to his involvement in the crime and the car used in perpetrating the crime has been recovered. Suspect is cooperating with the police on how to apprehend the fleeing suspects,” he said.

The CP also explained that police operatives from Mabushi Division, acting on credible intelligence trailed and arrested four other suspected armed robbers.

He said that the suspects included Oluwatobi Precious (an ex-convict), Theophilous Elkana, Ibrahim Usman and Umar Ibrahim, an ex-convict.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects robbed motorists of their phones while in traffic jam around Mobil filing station, Mabushi and zoomed off in a getaway golf car.

“Suspects confessed to the crime, while the said Golf car with Reg. No. DKA 288 RY, grey in colour, an Iphone 14 Pro Max and several ATM cards bearing different names and substances suspected to be cocaine were recovered from them,” Garba said.

He said that police operatives from Lugbe Division, acting on actionable intelligence, arrested one Emmanuel Abraham also known as ‘Mosquito’, a wanted and notorious armed robber/cultist linked to various cases of armed robbery/culpable homicide and other cult activities within Lugbe and environs.

“The suspect whose cohorts are presently in prison for robbery of one Mrs Abiodun Okunde, since 29th October, 2020 will equally be arraigned in court at the conclusion of investigation,” he said.

Garba aid that the police operatives from Kabusa Division trailed and arrested one Adamu Idris, also known as Idi, a wanted and notorious kingpin responsible for series of kidnapping around Galadimawa/Apo, Lokogoma and Kabusa axis.

“The suspect, who was sighted at Okada Junction, Kabusa, took to his heels, was given a hot chase and apprehended by police operatives.

“During interrogation, suspect confessed to being a member of a 5-man gang, whose other members are currently at large,” he said.

Garba said that the suspect was cooperating with the police to apprehend other gang members and would be charged to court soon.

In a similar development, on 21/09/2023, one Abubakar Usman of opposite Estate Galadimawa reported at Kabusa Division that two persons later identified as Auwal Wada and Suleiman Hassan of Galadimawa village threatened to kidnap him and his entire family if he failed to offer them N7million ransom.

“However, an agreement was reached that he would pay N5 million. The police operatives from Kabusa laid a siege at the point of collection in a bush around Shereti village.

“The two suspects emerged to collect the ransom and were promptly arrested.

“This has been the modus operandi of the suspects as they have successfully robbed their victims in the past. The suspects will be arraigned in court soon,” he said

Garba said that the police operatives from Mabushi Division also carried out a raid of criminal hideouts at Gishiri Village and a total of 36 bags of dried leaves suspected to be Indian Hemp were recovered.

“In the same operation, one Bello Ahmed, AKA Wizzy Bola, a notorious and wanted armed robber terrorizing Gishiri Village and its environs, was arrested,” he said.

According to Garba, all the suspects will be arraigned in Court upon the conclusion of discreet investigations.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Mark Longyen/Bashir Rabe Mani

Are male still bread winners in Nigerian homes?

Are male still bread winners in Nigerian homes?

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By Crystabelle Isichei
Since creation, men have always been the bread winners in every home, but this trend has now shifted as more women rise to the task of providing for their homes.
According to a recent study by American Sociological Association, male breadwinners still feel like the norm to many but they actually were a phenomenon for a very short period of history.
A marriage historian, Stephanie Coontz, said ’there is no such thing as the traditional male-breadwinner family.’
Nigeria is a patriarchal society where men are traditionally expected to be the breadwinners of the family, but this is no longer the case.
Mrs Iyang Isichei, a business woman, said the trend is no longer visible due to a number of factors like the rising cost of living, increased female education and employment level.
She said the decline in male employment level in certain sectors could lead to a woman being the breadwinner.
According to her, if there is no support from her partner, a woman will be overwhelmed and stressed with no sense of comfort and understanding.
Mr Cyril Bassey, a businessman, however, said that women are not traditionally expected to be the provider, adding that, this could lead to social stigma and discrimination.
”It can cause bad reputation of the family or that of the man. This can put a strain on relationships and family dynamics because it can cause frequent arguments among spouses,” he said.
Miracle Brownson, a student said that it is not normal for a woman to be the provider because it could cause a rift between the kids and their father.
”Some women can be very funny, they will let the children know that they are the ones providing for the family.
”This can make the children to disrespect their father or think that their father is not responsible,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com)
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Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Julius Toba-Jegede

Ex-lawmaker tasks CBN on naira slide

Ex-lawmaker tasks CBN on naira slide

171 total views today

By Taiye Agbaje
A former member of the House of Representatives, Mr Robinson Uwak, has advised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to engage in necessary confidence building measures to restore the billions of dollars in the country’s foreign reserve.
Uwak, who represented Oron, Mbo, Okobo, Ure-Offong/Oruko and Udung-Uko Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom at the 7th Assembly, gave the advice on Saturday in a statement in Abuja.
The ex-lawmaker said engaging in import substitution and currency control would help firm up the value of the naira in the short to medium term while more expansive, long term economic plan should be devised.
“The dollarisation of domestic spending and huge wastes in governance must be curbed, and we must build a national consensus on the way forward for our future economic system,” he said.
Uwak called on the CBN and all relevant institutions to halt the current slide of the naira.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigerian currency had, in recent days, being trading between N780 and N1,000 against the dollar in some quarters, which had fueled inflation in consumer goods that are traded on foreign currencies as the country is basically an import-oriented economy underwritten by the mono product of oil.
The former legislator, therefore, said it was time to stop the currency slide.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Sadiya Hamza

TAJBank records highest Tier-1 capital, PBT

TAJBank records highest Tier-1 capital, PBT

338 total views today

By Kadiri Abdulrahman

TAJBank Limited, a Nigeria’s non-interest bank has recorded the highest Tier-1 capital in the non-interest banking sub-sector in the first half of 2023.

This is according to a statement by TAJBank’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Ahmed Joda

Joda said that the audited financial statements of the bank also reflected an increase in its Profit Before Tax (PBT) to N6.019 billion, which is the highest in the banking sub-sector and surpassed analysts’ projections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that TAJBank also made history early this year when it listed the first tranche of N100 billion Sukuk Bond on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) after the successful issuance.

Joda said that a further analysis of the latest audited financial statements showed that its total assets rose from N212.021 billion in December 2022 to N335.017 billion at the end of June 2023.

He said that the figures indicated a 58 per cent increase.

“Its gross earnings increased by 67 per cent from N136.149 billion at the end of December 2022 to N227.031 billion as of the end of June.

“Other highlights of the bank’s financial scorecard in first half of 2023 reflected that the financing also significantly increased by 62 per cent from N78.235 billion recorded as of December 2022 to N126.725 billion by June.

“The deposits base surged to N251.250 billion from N161.958 billion as of December 2022; while its total equity grew by 88 per cent from N19.135 billion in December 2022 to N36.706 billion as of June,'” he said.

Joda, attributed TAJBank’s enviable feat to the increasingly proactive strategies being adopted by the management to respond to emerging trends in non-interest banking and deployment of the right resources.

“What I can say about TAJBank’s latest scorecard is that we have demonstrated that hard work pays.

“As we have maintained over the past three years, our interest is in our customers and we are pursuing this goal with all resources available to us to tell the whole world that TAJBank is the way to go in non-interest banking.

“To demonstrate our commitment to this customer-friendly corporate slogan, we are investing in world-class technologies and digital payment solutions in our services nationwide, ” he said.

“In pursuit of non-interest financial inclusion drive, we have also opened five branches this year and plan to open more in other states in the next few months”, he said.

TAJBank’s bank’s Executive Director, Mr Sherif Idi, said that the successes were made possible by the bank’s shareholders and customers.

“Our thanks go to our growing customers and shareholders whose belief in our vision and capacity to drive TAJBank to the leading edge of market competition has taken us this far.

“Let me assure them that TAJBank’s management and staff will continue to do its best to serve them better and protect their interests, which we value so much in all areas of operations”,he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Rep Tanko gives advice on mitigating “Japa Syndrome”

Rep Tanko gives advice on mitigating “Japa Syndrome”

190 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

Rep. Adamu Tanko (PDP-Niger State) has said that tackling “Japa Syndrome” will entail getting Nigerians already resident abroad to contribute to Nigeria’s ailing economy.

He made this known at an empowerment programme he organised to mark his 100 Days in office held at the Suleja Township Stadium, Sulaje on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lawmaker empowered over 1, 500 of his constituents with cash donations, industrial sewing machines, power generators and grinding machines.

According to him, the gesture was in fulfilment of his campaign promises to his constituents.

“We have given them the commitment that we are going to serve them earnestly; we are going to work for their interest; we will make sure we give a facelift to their standard of living. This is what we have done,” he said.

Tanko is Chairman House Committee on Diaspora and represents Suleja/Tafa/Gurara Federal Constituency.

The lawmaker who said that though the movement of persons across borders  could not be avoided also said that the committee is doing its best to tackle the ‘Japa Syndrome’.

“At the committee level, our responsibility is to make sure we maximise the benefit of Nigerians in diaspora for the benefits of those resident in Nigeria.

“There are very influential Nigerians living everywhere in the world and are holding influential positions and they have the means to contribute to nation building back home.

“If you mobilise Nigerians in diaspora sufficiently to do this, that will be a very efficient way to mitigate japa syndrome.

“We intend to embark on massive mobilisation, publicity campaigns and sensitisation on Nigerians across the world to give back some portion of what they have to make citizens living from this country to others to stay back home,” he said.

Tanko also saluted Nigeria on its 63rd Independence Anniversary describing the country as a promising, diverse and blessed nation.

“We should still look inward. With the enormous challenges, we shouldn’t despair, we should be courageous, we should show resilience.

“We have to imbibe the spirit of patriotism and commitment to nation building so that we can have the Nigeria of our dream,” he said.

Also speaking, Rep. Jafaru Leko (APC-Bauchi) commended Tanko on the empowerment project.

Leko said, “I’m so happy that a friend of mine, a colleague of mine, my close ally is doing this.”

He represents Bagoro/Dass/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency, Bauchi,  and he is the Deputy Chairman House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

He noted that in the House of Representatives, members are united irrespective of party differences.

“When we came to the 10th Assembly, there was what we call members of the young legislators group.

“We agreed that we are not only going to represent our constituency but we are going to represent the youth constituency.

“About 43 of us who are under 40 years, decided to work together irrespective of political parties.

“We are working to move this country forward. We are working to change the narrative, we are working to add value to the country.

“So the time of politics and party differences is over. It’s now time for governance. We all belong to Nigeria and Nigeria is what is before us,” Leko said.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr Istifanus Bawa, Deputy Chairman Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Tafa Local Government Area appreciated the lawmaker for the kind gesture.

“I’m so glad. We believe in his capacity even as a youth. This is the beginning of greater things for the people of the constituent. I believe he will do more.”(NAN)

Edited by Julius Toba-Jegede

Effective and strategic leadership, path to Nigeria’s progress – Alim Abubakre

Effective and strategic leadership, path to Nigeria’s progress – Alim Abubakre

171 total views today

 

Abigael Joshua

 

Dr Alim Abubakre, British Nigerian, founder of United Kingdom-based firm TEXEM UK, says the path to Nigeria’s progress lies in having effective and strategic leaders.

Abubakre, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja while commemorating Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, says it is a moment of reflection and an opportunity to chart a brighter future for the country.

He says he has an individual social responsibility to share insights on effective and strategic leadership informed by his privilege of engaging over 4,000 leaders globally.

“As Nigeria celebrates its 63rd independence anniversary, it is a moment of reflection and an opportunity to chart a brighter future for the nation.

“Every time I speak with leaders, I observe that they agree that executives in government and business play pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s destiny,” Abubakre said.

According to him, the billion-dollar question is: What values do strategic leaders in Nigeria need to succeed in this fast-paced, increasingly volatile and competitive world?

“Peter Drucker, a management guru, once asked, “What needs to be done?”. This question, along with another critical inquiry, “What is right for the enterprise?” should guide the decisions and actions of our leaders.

“These two questions encapsulate the essence of effective and strategic leadership,” Abubakre said.

The TEXEM founder cited cases of successful leaders from emerging countries who have demonstrated leadership qualities, which he said are valuable examples for Nigerian present leaders to emulate.

“Taking responsibility is an essential quality of leadership. When Lee Kuan Yew led Singapore to independence, he took full responsibility for the decisions made.

“His commitment to good governance and economic development transformed Singapore into a global economic powerhouse.

“Furthermore, strategic leaders take responsibility for their decisions, a trait exhibited by Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first African female DG of WTO,” Abubakre said.

He said Okonjo-Iweala’s new focus on sustainability and efforts to inspire the WTO to focus on core values and strive to update the WTO rulebook to address 21st-century challenges should inspire leaders in Nigeria to take responsibility.

With respect to effective communication attribute, Abubakre said

China’s leaders have understood the importance of effective communication in conveying their vision for the country’s growth.

On the home front, he said leaders like MKO Abiola and Tony Elumelu are known for their effective communication skills, rallying stakeholders around a shared vision for entrepreneurship, economic empowerment and political liberation in the case of Abiola.

Abubakre also advised Nigerian leaders to turn challenges into vitamins, like the case of South Korea.

“Leaders in South Korea, faced with adversity after the Korean War, turned challenges into opportunities by investing in education and technology. South Korea is known for its innovation and economic strength today,” he said.

Speaking on productive meetings, another leadership quality, Abubakre said

Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba Group, is renowned for running effective meetings.

“His ability to facilitate discussions and encourage collaboration has contributed to his company’s success.

“For those who prefer a Nigerian example, I share the nation’s icon, Amina J. Mohammed, Nigeria’s Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

“Ms. Amina is adept at running productive meetings and fostering international cooperation despite the diverse interests of the UN’s five veto-wielding countries,” he said.

Calling for stakeholder engagement by Nigerian leaders, Abubakre said that Brazil’s leaders, especially during the Lula da Silva era, effectively engaged stakeholders to address issues like poverty and inequality, leading to improved conditions.

“Also, one of Aliko Dangote’s unique selling points that is valuable, difficult to imitate and rare is his ability to engage with various stakeholders to build a successful enterprise.

“He has been employing tens of thousands, providing revenue for thousands of suppliers, generating revenue through tax for government and contributing to national growth,” he said.

Building prolific teams is another vital attribute advocated by the TEXEM founder.

Abubakre said that China’s tech giant Tencent, led by leaders like Pony Ma, empowers its teams to innovate and take ownership of projects, resulting in continuous growth and innovation.

Coming home, he said the founders of Nigeria, such as Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Anthony Ehahoro and Ahmadu Bello, set aside their differences to collaborate to negotiate independence for Nigeria, which is now celebrating its 63rd anniversary.

“Embracing the values of effective and strategic leadership is not just a choice but imperative for Nigeria’s progress in the 21st century.

“My experience with diverse, successful global leaders has revealed that if Nigerians incorporate these qualities into their leadership practice, they will succeed in championing good governance and nation-building.

“It requires leaders to look beyond personal interests and focus on the nation’s collective well-being. Sun Tzu wisely noted, ‘Opportunities multiply as they are seized’, ” Abubakre said.

He asserted that effective and strategic leaders grasp opportunities to create a better future for all that will endure.

Abubakre said that as Nigeria marks its 63rd independence anniversary, the people should heed the wisdom of these leaders and commit themselves to embracing effective and strategic leadership.

“In the words of Alfred Sloan, former CEO of General Motors, “The job of a leader is not to create greatness in people, but to create the conditions under which greatness is possible”.

“It is time for our leaders in government and business to create these conditions for a prosperous and united Nigeria,” he said.

Abubakre, a thought leader, and the founder of TEXEM, UK (www.texem.co.uk), is on the London Business School Africa Club advisory board and is a Sheffield Business School Senior Lecturer. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Razak Owolabi

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