By Patience Yakubu

Two travel agents, Clement Ekhueorohan, 30, and Courage Chinonso, 38, were on Thursday sentenced to four years imprisonment each by a Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court for visa fraud.

The duo, both residents of Kabala Coastain, Kaduna, were charged with conspiracy, fraud and theft.

Delivering judgment, Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel held that both Ekhurorohan and Chinoso were guilty of defrauding Philip Adetutu and five other victims of N11. 6 million.

The magistrate did not give the convicts an option of fine.

He also ordered the convicts to restitute N2.1million each as compensation to the victims.

Earlier, the Prosecution Counsel, Insp. Chidi Leo, told the court that the convicts between March and Oct. 2022, in Ungwan Rimi area of Kaduna, obtained N2.1million each from Adetutu and 5 other victims to procure a French, Australian and Malta visa/ tickets for them.

Leo said that after fraudulently collecting the money from the victims, the duo failed to fulfil their own part of the bargain and all efforts made to collect the money from them failed.

The offence, he said, contravened the Penal Code of Kaduna State, 2017. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Idris Abdulrahman

By Fabian Ekeruche

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says two bodies have been  recovered at the scene of an accident involving a train and a staff bus in Sogunle area of Lagos on Thursday morning.

Mr Ibrahim Farinloye, Lagos Territorial Coordinator, NEMA,  told newsmen in Lagos that the deceased were members of staff of the Lagos State Government

Farinloye said that the state government staff bus was trying to cross the PWD/Sogunle rail crossing while the train, on the rail, was coming into Lagos from Abeokuta.

He said that several other persons injured  had been evacuated for proper medical care.

He said that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) flag Officers were reported to have  tried to stop the driver of the bus from crossing before the accident.

Emergency responders at the event are the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), NEMA, Police, FRSC, Civil defense , and the  Nigerian Railway Corporation team. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Dr Ajibola Abayoni, President of Journalists International Forum For Migration (JIFORM) with Jin Ming Yu, Deputy Consul General, China Embassy

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Journalists International Forum For Migration (JIFORM) has called for partnership with the Chinese embassy in Nigeria to promote trade facilitation and migration matters through media education.

A statement on Wednesday by Dr Ajibola Abayomi, President, JIFORM, said that the call was made during his visit to the Lagos office of the embassy.

He asked for support on capacity building for journalists covering migration, with a view to achieving better understanding of the trade opportunities in China and on migration reportage.

“The JIFORM has been promoting purposeful migration of Nigerians to China and several countries over the years.

“We are here to seek your support regarding knowledge sharing to improve the capacity of the JIFORM members in the reportage of economic and migration policies involving China.

“We are also open to collaboration that will encourage regular migration to strengthen the relationship between us and your embassy as well as promoting better working relationships with the Nigerian government on foreign policies,” Ajibola said.

Responding, Jin Ming Yu, the Deputy Consul General, lauded JIFORM for the visit and pledged to review proposals to support media capacity building.

Yu said that many Nigerians over the years have established businesses in China while Chinese nationals had also played important roles in the Nigerian technology and construction sectors.

He reiterated the desire to work with JIFORM to promote quality information about trade and investment opportunities between China and Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that JIFORM is a non-profit body of over 300 journalists and other volunteers across Africa covering migration matters. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

===========

Edited by Deborah Coker/Maharazu Ahmed

By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to shun electoral violence and voter apathy that are capable of disrupting electoral process during the March 11 governorship and state House of Assembly elections.

Mrs Theresa Nnalue, NOA Director in charge of Orientation and Behaviour Modification, gave the advice on Wednesday at a -Day Motorised Voters’ Education in Suleja, Niger State.

The campaign is titled “Say No to Violence” with the theme “Embrace Peaceful Credible Election’’.

Nnalue, who said that the campaign was to enlighten the citizens on the need for peaceful and violence free elections, urged Nigerians to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner during the March 11 poll.

“We are here to sensitise the people about the March 11 governorship and state House of Assembly elections and to encourage them to come out en mass to cast their votes in a peaceful manner.

“Our message is that let them shun violence, voter apathy and come out and participate in the March 11 governorship and state House of Assembly. Once there is no violence, votes will count.

“There is also need for them to vote the right person they believe he or she will cater for their needs and provide them good governance,’’ she said.

According to her, aggrieved parties should not take law into their hands and follow the right process by going to court to get back their mandate.

Nnalue also urged parents to caution their children to make peace and shun violence and trouble making while casting ballots.

According to her, peace is imperative because without peace, there will be no national development. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Members of Federal Government of Nigeria Women Ambassadors Network (FWAN-NET) at an event to mark NWD in Abuja on Wednesday

By Lizzy Okoji
The Federal Government of Nigeria Women Ambassadors Network (FWAN-NET) has urged the incoming administration to beat the 35 per cent affirmative action of women representation to 40 per cent women inclusion in its cabinet.

Dr Eniola Ajayi, the Chairperson, FWASN-NE and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during an event organised by the network to mark the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the women ambassadors celebrated the event in line with the global theme of the 2023 IWD “Digital Innovation and technology for Gender Equality”.

Speaking to journalist at the event, Ajayi said that the Nigerian women were the bedrock and major contributors to Nigeria’s economy, hence the reason they must be fully involved in all sectors of governance.

“The Nigerian woman has a lot to be happy about not because of any affirmation but because we are the bedrock of the society.

“When you look at Nigeria and the kind of economy that we have, the reason our economy keeps bouncing out of recession is because of the strength of our informal sector, which is largely dominated by women.

“The Nigerian women are very resilience, very powerful, very resourceful, very successful so there is a lot to celebrate about.

“Affirmative action is like 33, 35 per cent. The Nigerian government that is going to take over should be looking at 40 per cent of women in governance.

“Because the women are very empathic people, we reach out in leadership through team work, we do not have ego issues, we collaborate, we represent and we produce.

“That is the kind of women that we have in Nigeria and there is a lot of them all over this country who can make a huge difference in governance.

“So, I am looking forward not to 35 per cent but 40 per cent of women representation in the next government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Ajayi said.

Ajayi said that the Nigerian women ambassadors had stood out among their male counterparts “and that is why the network is driving the message of encouraging younger girls, especially in the digital and technology sectors.”

“That is why some of us who have found ourselves in this position thought it fit to do this because the motto of our association is “For Advancement in Leadership and Diplomacy”.

“We want Nigerian women to feel empowered and supported, to take their place among the committee of nations.

“And I am glad that our male colleagues, knowing the kind of women we are, they came to support us at this event,” Ajayi added.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubairu Dada lauded the women ambassadors on their initiative, noting that the theme for this event “is apt, especially as the world keeps becoming more complex and competitive.”

Dada said that digital economy had become an integral part of daily lives, as it also served as a powerful tool to advancing gender equality.

Dada said that he was optimistic that the FGN Women Ambassadors Network would offer the necessary support and opportunities for young females to enable them accomplish their potential as diplomats.

“With digital technology, women how have access to resources that were hitherto inaccessible or too costly.

“Digital economy has enabled women to bring down barriers and access education, and opportunities to start businesses and participate in the global economy.

“It has also given them a platform to share their stories and experiences and make their voices heard in matters of policies and advocacies.

“Leading to their visibility and recognition in their respective fields, as well as allowing access to financial independence,” Dada said

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Liang said that the Women Ambassadors Network initiative “is a sure way to achieving 50/50 women representation in governance.”

“To my Nigerian colleague who set up your own female ambassadors network, it is a great initiative and one that will really help you to achieve your objective to get to 50/50.

“I want to share a couple of lessons from the UK and what we have managed to achieve. We have achieved more that 50/50 for our top ambassadors.

“We now have female ambassadors to the U.S., the United Nations, to France, to German, Moscow, Beijing, to Brasilia, and Abuja.

“Our foreign secretary one thing he did, he designated ambassadors, high commissioners roles that have not yet been filled by women.

“And it was to encourage young women to look at the mirror and see themselves in these roles. Very inspiring.” Laing said.

NAN reports the Meta (Facebook), and Microsoft were key supporters of the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

LIZ/GY

Edited by Grace Yussuf

Wife of the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs Mrs Liang Huili at the commemoration of the International Women’s Day event by the Chinese Embassy and the Female Artist Association of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja

By Lizzy Okoji

Mrs Liang Huili, Wife of the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, has emphasized the need for redoubled efforts to promote gender equality and advance the global cause of women’s development.

Liang made this known on Wednesday at an event organised by the Chinese Cultural Center, Abuja in collaboration with the Female Artist Association of Nigeria (FEAAN) to mark the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event is with the theme “ The Women in Culture” showcased over 50 paintings by Female Artists to depict Nigeria’s vibrant culture.

According to Liang, it is Important to redouble the cause of promoting gender equality and women’s development, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic which took a heavy toll on economy, with greater challenges to women

Sharing the development of women’s cause in China, Liang said that putting in place over 100 laws and regulations for the full protection of women’s right, women now account for over 40 per cent of the country’s workforce.

“Women are creators of human civilization and drivers of social progress. And they have made extraordinary achievements across all fields of endeavor.

“In recent years, the development of the China-Nigeria relations enjoys sound momentum, with political mutual trust being enhances, cooperation in various fields yielding fruitful results, and coordination on international and regional affairs being closer.

“All these achievements could not be made without the full participation of women from both sides.

“China has always attached great importance to women’s cause and gender equality. First, equality between men and women is a basic state policy in China.

“We have put in place legal systems comprising over 100 laws and regulations to fully protect women’ rights and interests. Second, women political status has grown significantly.

“Third, women are playing important role in economic and social development. Women account for over 40 per cent of the country’s workforce and more than half of China’s internet start-up businesses are set up by women,” Laing said

Dr Ngozi Akande, Secretary, Board of Trustees, FEAAN, said that the association was formed to give women the opportunity to air their views, use their arts to advocate against forms of gender-based violence.

“The female artists association of Nigeria was formed in 2001 to give the women the voice to air their views using their arts.

“We are using our arts to ask for female rights against against gender-based violence, rape, we also use our art to celebrate women in in every aspect of life.

“So the theme of this 2023 International Women’s Day, DigiatAll: Innovation and technology for gender equality is apt. this is a call to educate more women and girls in digital technology.

“Today’s life depends on strong terminological integration. For instance, attending courses on line, doing bank transactions, making phone calls, booking medical appointment, all these go through a digital process.

“However, if women and girls do not have access to internet and do not feel safe online, they will find it difficult to engage in the digital space.

“Bringing women into technology will result in more creative solutions and they will have greater potential for innovations that will meet women needs and promote gender equality.

“This exhibition titled women in cultural showcases over 50 paintings by 20 women and a male guest artist depicting different cultural themes in vibrant colours, and good finishing,” Akande said.

Mrs Lydia Jafiya, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Culture, said that the the 2023 International Women’s Day should be a time to reflect on the challenges faced by women with a road map for improvements.

Jafiya who was represented by Mrs, Zainab Ali-Biu, a Director in the Ministry, said that women indeed deserve to be celebrated for their great exploits and contributions to humanity.

“As we celebrate the 2023 International Women’s Day, it is important to reflect once again on the road ahead, harness collective energy to address challenges faced by women and helping them break barriers.

“As a global community, we can achieve this through a clear roadmap, by setting up more structures, and strengthening existing institutional frameworks with a view to expanding the scope of women,” Jafiya said.

NAN reports that the Chinese Embassy awarded three students from schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja for coming first, second and third in the Embassy’s IWD Essay writing competition.

Winner of the first position was awarded Seventy thousand naira, the second position, sixty thousand naira while the third position, fifty thousand naira. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

==============

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Arewa Development Support Initiative (ADSI), has urged the President-elect, Sen. Bola Tinubu to ensure youth and women empowerment, as well as girl-child education, especially in the northern part of the country.

In a congratulatory letter signed on Wednesday in Abuja, the President of the initiative, Khuraira Musa, aligned with the vision of the President-elect in the actualisation of economic empowerment, skills acquisition, capacity building and inclusiveness for nation-building.

According to her, ADSI desires to partner with the incoming administration in the actualisation of a grassroots campaign manifesto in these areas which are part of its activities over the years.

Musa said: “We the board and members of Arewa Development Support Initiative (ADSI) extend warm congratulations to you as the President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“You demonstrated resilience in running a hard-fought campaign by symbolising hope, unity, patriotism and economic success.

“But importantly, ADSI is excited to read about your trademark of fast-track development, excellence and filling the best person for the job which hallmark is required to addressing the many challenges our country is facing.”

She said the initiative was aware of how Tinubu impressed Lagosians with a clear vision and ability to get the job done against the most formidable opposition.

Musa added: “As you get on with the business of government as President- elect, ADSI desires to be your worthy partner in the actualisation of some of your grassroots campaign manifesto to our northern brothers and sisters.

“Which largely was on economic empowerment, skills acquisition, capacity building and inclusiveness for nation-building which are at the heart of ADSI objectives.

” ADSI trusts that you will continue to work for improved youth programs, gender equality especially in the northern part of Nigeria as well as women, girl-child education and most importantly, having more women in your cabinet.”

She said that the initiative was a developmental, capacity building and SDG advocacy organisation with an impressive presence in all 19 states of the North and FCT.

Musa said: “Our large membership comprises personalities of all vocations from all walks of life mainly of northern extraction of all faiths.

“We wish you much success in your demanding office, good fortunes and firm health, as well as to the entire members of your family.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Chiazo Ogbolu

The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Mr Emmanuel Jime, says the council has surpassed the 35 per cent affirmative action of the United Nations on gender equality.

Jime said this while celebrating the International Women’s Day (IWD) with the Women in Logistics and Transport Nigeria (WILAT), in Lagos on Wednesday.

The event had the theme: “Embrace Equity through Innovation and Technology’’.

Jime was represented by NSC’s Deputy Director of Human Resources, Mrs Ada Okam.

He said that the council was gender-friendly as reflected in the number of women in its top management cadre.

“Precisely, women constitute 45 per cent of the high-profile cadre as well as occupy other juicy positions.

“In line with embracing equity, the council has already trained over 65 per cent of its female staff locally and abroad in different capacity building programmes to properly position them in the organisation.

“Council will do more where our female members of staff demonstrate the requisite capacity. I commend our female staff for showing capacity by performing excellently in their designated offices,” he said.

The Chairperson of WILAT, Mrs Khadijat Sheidu-Shabi, said that 15 years ago, the percentage of women in the maritime industry was about seven.

According to her, women currently occupy more administrative positions.

She said, however, that there were not enough women in the technical sector of the maritime industry.

She listed the areas still dominated by men to include engineering and seafaring.

Mrs Ufon Usoro, National President, Chartered Institute of logistics and Transport (CILT), urged women to create opportunities for themselves.

“We should create opportunities and make the society to realise that we are hardworking, smart and ready to contribute,’’ she said.

Usoro urged women to avoid giving excuses but put in their best in any given assignment.

“You just need to rearrange yourself and do what the men do to get to the top,” she said.

She expressed satisfaction at the theme of the 2023 IWD celebration.

“I am very pleased about the theme of the IWD which is equity through technology. We need to create opportunities for ourselves, encourage our girls to be good in science and mathematics because that is where you start if you want to be good in using technology,” she said.

The state Chairman of CILT, Alhaji Bashir Ambi, said that no society would be complete without women.

Ambi appealed to the Federal Government to encourage more education of women in technology especially in rural areas. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

========
Edited by Ijeoma Popoola