By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Navy and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop navy’s capacity in ship building and maritime technology.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Prof. Mohammad Haruna and the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm.  Auwal Gambo, sealed the deal at Naval Headquarters Abuja, on Wednesday.

Gambo said the MoU was another milestone in the Nigerian Navy’s efforts at strengthening interagency collaboration for enhanced security within the nation’s maritime domain.

The CNS commended NASENI for changing the dynamics of engineering, and facilitating research and development initiatives across sectors in the country and beyond.

He said that as part of the collaboration, a NASENI team had visited the Naval Dockyard in Lagos to refine the Nigerian Navy’s local shipbuilding, construction and fabrications for the maritime industry.

According to him, the indigenous shipbuilding effort has enhanced the presence of the Nigerian navy at sea which led to significant reduction of piracy.

Gambo said that the efforts had culminated into the delisting of Nigeria from the international list of piracy-prone countries in the world.

“This has ultimately reduced high insurance premium which is known as risk premium, usually factored into shipping costs due to prevalence of piracy incidents around any part of the world.

“These high costs are passed on the consumers, you and I, which enables shipping companies recoup their losses, as it were.

“Now the good news is that prior to delisting Nigeria from the International Maritime Bureau list of piracy prone countries in March last year, the insurance premium has been reduced from $5,000 to $946.

“I assure you that the Nigerian navy will sustain this feat by the grace of God,” he said.

The Naval chief said the MoU would re-ignite partnership between both organisations in several ways, including research and development for enhanced security.

He added that it would also foster operations and administrative engagements to achieve sustainable blue economy for Nigeria.

Gambo said the sustained efforts and support from the federal government was instrumental to the successes recorded by the Nigerian navy and thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his unflinching support.

“I wish to assure you that the Nigerian Navy is well positioned to meet the terms of this unprecedented memorandum of understanding and I look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership for the benefit of our great country.

“I therefore, implore both parties, the Nigerian Navy and NASENI to be committed towards the attainment of the objectives of the memorandum of understanding for the good of Nigeria and benefit of Nigerians,” he added.

The Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Prof. Mohammad Haruna, said the MoU would help to save foreign exchange and produce what was needed locally to enhance national security.

Haruna commended the Navy for its creativity and ingenuity in developing local capacity.

He said that the Navy’s stride at its Dockyard in Lagos would ease the collaboration in terms of research, fabrication of spare parts and ship building.

According to him, the MoU will provide tangible results for the benefits of our country,

The Chief of Policy and Plans (Navy), Rear Adm. Suleiman Garba, said the MoU was a milestone in the joint technology revolution in Nigeria.

Garba said that the navy needed fruitful partnership with technological agencies such as NASENI to aggregate their human and financial resources to be self reliant.

Also speaking, the Chief of Naval Engineering, Rear Adm. Suleiman EL-Ladan, said the MoU was designed to harmonise the capacity of the navy and NASENI to take ownership of engineering and technical development for Nigeria.

El-Ladan said the arrangement started in 2016, adding that the two parties would constitute a joint implementation committee to ensure proper execution of the MoU.

According to him, under the agreement, the Nigerian navy will provide research and development focus areas, capacity to start off, design and construction of fishing vessels as well as oil tankers.

He said the MoU had a five-year lifespan, after which it would be expanded. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Maharazu Ahmed

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

By Angela Atabo/ Bukola  Adewumi
Canadian High Commission to Nigeria and Connected Development (CODE) have tasked the Federal Government on the need to enact policies that will protect women and girls.

They made the call at a news conference on Wednesday, in Abuja to mark the International Women’s Day (IWD) and to share key findings on CODE’s GMAA-K project.

The project “Galvanizing Mass Action Against Gender-Based Violence in Kano State (GMAA-K)” was implemented in Kano State address inequality among others.

Mr Hamzat Lawal, the Chief Executive, CODE. said the call to enact women friendly laws was imperative to address the ills against women in the society .

Lawal said Nigeria ranked 123rd out of 146 countries on the World Gender Gap Gender Equality Index of 2022.

He said that prior to the World Gender Gap ranking, Thomson Reuters Foundation conducted a survey in 2018, and Nigeria ranked 9th in the top 10 list of most dangerous countries for women.

He said that Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) was widespread in Nigeria, with 30 per cent of women aged 15 to 49 having reported experiences of sexual abuse.

He added that 43 per cent of girls were married off before age 18, and 17 per cent married off before they turned 15 “and Kano State, in the Northwestern part of the country is a reflective of these peculiarities.”

“SGBV fueled by cultural and religious factors continues spreading and the state lacks enabling laws to address SGBV, or sanction offenders and ensure victims/survivors get the multidimensional support they require.

“Today, we are celebrating International Women’s Day and calling all stakeholders across Nigeria to embrace equality not by mere show of words but by actions such as enacting policies that will protect women and girls in society.

“The action plan got inputs from various Kano state actors and non-state actors. As of  Dec. 1, 2022, the State Assembly held a public hearing on the Child Protection Bill but the house failed to pass the bills as committed to all stakeholders.

“It is disheartening to say that policies such as this that ought to protect women and children in society are given a back seat in our society, in Kano state .’’

Lawal said that commitments from government stakeholders had not been upheld, particularly on the creation of more Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) in each Kano emirate council “as Kano state only has one”.

“The reason CODE commissioned research is to highlight the impact of the project in the state, on lessons learnt, and recommendations for future direction of SGBV programming in Kano state.’’

Lawal said that to address SGBV in Kano, CODE through funding from the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria inaugurated the Galvanising Mass Action Against Gender-Based Violence in Kano State (GMAA-K)  project.

He said the project aimed at galvanizing the public and empowering women to mount advocacies against SGBV and domestic abuse as well as engage the government for the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law.

He said CODE in January 2021, implemented the first phase of the GMAA-K in Kano, as the Canadian High Commission seeing the inroads being made with the project in Kano supported the second phase of the project in November 2021.

The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr James Christoff, said this year’s IWD was a reminder that all women from all ages and walks of life have a place in every aspect of the society.

“Today, we celebrate the achievements of all women and girls who are building a stronger and more inclusive future, but we cannot forget that there is more work to be done.

“In Nigeria, this is particularly important as we know Nigeria is facing an SGBV crisis .

“At homes, in schools, on the streets, at work, on the internet, between conflict zones and IDP camps; SGBV has become normalised and most often goes unpunished sometimes blaming survivors.

“Certain groups such as women with disabilities are at greater risk to experience gender-based violence, the scale of this issue is tremendous.’’

Christoff said that gender equality and empowerment of women and girls were at the heart of the Canada’s Feminist Foreign policies due to the belief that gender equality was key to building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.

He said that the commission under its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives had been working with CODE over two years to galvanise action against gender based violence in Kano state.

He however, hoped that the report would chat the way forward to curb SGBV.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Grace Yussuf

By Taiye Agbaje

Abuja, March 8, 2023 (NAN) Some indigenes of Plateau living in the U.S., on Wednesday, have urged all political parties and candidates in the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections to abide by the signed Peace Accord and accept the outcome of the elections.

This is contained in a statement issued by Plateau State Association USA, Inc. (PSA-USA), signed by its National President, Dr. Barth Shepkong and made available to newsmen in Abuja.

“In the upcoming gubernatorial and house of assembly elections, we encourage voters to remain peaceful and patient as they cast their votes.

“We urge all political parties and candidates to abide by the signed Peace Accord and fully commit to supporting all efforts that ensure that only the Nigerian people decide who wins the election(s).

“It is imperative for Nigeria’s stability and democratic
consolidation that the process is conducted and concluded safely and credibly.

“We encourage all actors to calm tensions and avoid violence of any sort proactively,” he said.

Shepkong said the association would support and partner with whoever won the election in the state “as we continue to advocate for good governance.

“Working with Plateau State citizens in the Diaspora will help create a sense of belonging and cement our passionate interests in contributing significantly to our state’s socioeconomic and political development.”

According to him, PSA USA will continue to partner and advocate for a fair democratic process that reflects the will of our people and our collective goal for a #BetterPlateau.

“Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve the chance to choose their future — freely and fairly.

“Finally, the future belongs to all of us. Let’s work together to make it what we want.

“It’s time we separate tribe and religion from politics, remember, change begins with you and I. Let us consciously work in building a better society,” he said.(NAN)(www.nanmews.ng)

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Association of Women Town Planners in Nigeria (AWTPN), has called for gender equity and focus on girl-child education as the nation celebrates the 2023 International Women’s Day celebration.

Mrs Bukola Bello, AWTPN Chairperson, made the call on Wednesday, in Abuja at an event by the association to commemorate the Day.

“This year’s International Women’s Day presents an opportunity to celebrate, discuss and embrace Equity: ‘equal opportunities are no longer enough but Equity should be the order of the day’.

“There is also the need to engage more women in governance and administrations as well as to empower and invest in the girl-child with a view to achieving equality and equity in all directions for a better society,” she said.

Bello specifically called for the implementation of the 35 per cent affirmative action for gender inclusion in all states and the Federation.

She said the association would continue to lead the campaign of catching the girl-child young through frequent sensitisation programmes in secondary schools.

Earlier, Mrs Oluwayinka Bello, Chairperson AWTPN, FCT chapter, said the Day was meant to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women to nation building.

“This celebration (marked on March 8) is another call to power on efforts to make the digital world safer, more inclusive, more equitable and create a better future not just for women and girls but for all humanity,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 in honour of women’s achievements, raises awareness about discrimination and takes action to drive gender parity.

This year’s celebration has the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vincent Obi

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The High Commission of India in Nigeria on Tuesday in Abuja honoured some outstanding Nigerian women as part of activities to mark the 2023 International Women’s Day celebration.

Gangandharan Balasubramanian, Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the event was organised to celebrate and give awards to distinguished Nigerian and Indian women from various fields.

NAN reports that the International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, in honour of women’s achievements, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to drive gender parity.

The High Commissioner said the event was organised on March 7, so as to have all the stakeholders on board to herald the Day.

“The International Women’s Day is celebrated all over the world and we have so many achievers here in Nigeria.

“So the high commission considered it appropriate to recognise and celebrate the achievements of these great women on this special day,” he said.

NAN reports that four outstanding Nigerian women were honoured from various fields ranging from Health, Politics, Diplomacy and Medicine.

While three Indian women residing in Nigeria were also recognised from the Business, Education and Culture sectors.

The Nigerians honoured include Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

Others are Amb. Janet Olisa, Director overseeing Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mrs Maimuna Habib, Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria.

Adeyeye after receiving her award stressed the importance of women to home and nation building while calling for more women in places of authority.

The Indian women honoured are Ms Ritu Sahajwalla, MD Greenville Liquefied Natural Gas Company Ltd, Ms Sonali Gupta, Principal India Language School, Lagos and Ms Hamisha Abuja, a movie Director/Producer.

Balasubramanian highlighted the immense contributions of women to nation building in both countries and stressed the need for gender equality.

The 2023 International Women’s Day has as it’s theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to recipients/ cultural exhibitions while there was also the launch of the Abuja chapter of the India women association.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

=======

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

By Ismaila Chafe

President Muhammadu Buhari has described the death of foremost politician and businessman, Alhaji Musa Musawa, a one-time Senator, as a great loss to Nigeria.

In a condolence message by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, on Wednesday in Abuja, Buhari said the nation mourns the loss of a political giant and a true Nigerian.

He described the deceased as ”a towering grassroots politician with a nuanced understanding of matters who had very few parallels as a campaigner in his heydays.”

He noted that the deceased lived a worthy life, ”leaving us with innumerable happy memories of accomplishments as a politician, businessman and a community leader. We will miss him a lot.

“May Allah repose his soul and grant fortitude to his family, the government and people of Katsina State to bear the loss.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

By Joy Odigie

The Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has advocated for equitable distribution of resources to women in the society.

Dr Godwin Ehigiamusoe, Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, made the call at the 11th LAPO Outstanding Women Leadership Award (LOWLA) in Benin on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that LOWLA is an annual event organised by LAPO in commemoration of the International Women’s Day held every March 8.

Ehigiamusoe said there still existed a world filled with innumerable hurdles and obstacles hindering gender equity.

He said: “Gender -biased deprivations and male-dominated social structures remain strong in our society.

“If we fail to challenge gender stereotypes, call out discriminations, draw attention to biases and seek out inclusion, we may not be able to achieve the desired progress including the SDGs”.

He added that LOWLA was instituted in 2013 to recognise and honour women who are excelling in business, farming and professional careers with sustainable social impact.

The Guest Speaker, Prof. Adefunke Adekunle, Director of Gender Studies, University of Benin, said equity could be achieved by giving everyone a voice to speak as well as listened to.

She said that countries would become more prosperous if collective efforts were given to
women and women led businesses to function at their fullest potentials.

Also, the Chairperson, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, Vice Chancellor, University of Delta, Agbor, advocated for women liberation from poverty and debased lives.

The vice chancellor called for sound moral, education and entrepreneurial training for the girl child to reduce the numbers of women living debased lives in the society.

“It is high time we looked inwards and try to ensure that we remove our girls living indecent lives from the streets for them to know that they can contribute positively to societal development,” she said.

Chiemeke commended the co-founder of LAPO, Mrs Elizabeth Ehigiamusoe, for being a strong support to her husband and the family.

NAN reports that the highlight of the event was the presentation of LAPO Lifetime Achievement Award to Ehigiamusoe.

While the winners of LOWLA Business, Farming and Professional categories included Gladys Okoro, Mary Durodola and Helen Azuni. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Bassey/Vivian Ihechu

By Josephine Obute

Princess Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, global cultural ambassador and wife of the Ooni of Ife, has tasked women to get involved in all sectors of the economy towards boosting global productivity.

Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, founder, Africa fashion week London and Nigeria, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the commemoration of the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD).

She said her message for women was to encourage their inclusion in all sectors as it  would boost the image of the nation and the global environment.

She said that women should participate in public and private engagements towards contriuting their quota to the development of humanity and their chosen endeavours.

She congratulated women who have diversified in more demanding ventures due to the current  economic hardships thereby assisting their husbands and children.

“We should do away with the tokenism offered to women in the public and private work space as this will assist in gradually eradicating the self limiting beliefs society has placed on women.

“Women are very intelligent and creative and need to be encouraged to perform better, they serve diligently in any office they hold because they are exceptionally intelligent,” she said.

She appealed to investors to have greater interest in investing in businesses owned by women because they are more reliable in loan investment.

“I feel more investment should go towards women owned businesses and access to borrowing for women should be made easier.

“Banks, investors and business finance teams should have special programmes for women by sensitizing them on what they stand to gain if they cooperate among themselves.

“We need to trickle down to the  grassroots as women are known to be the best borrowers because they are always faithful in the culture of pay back,” she told NAN.

She said that the Ooni of Ife has promoted and assisted several women through the annual Queen Moremi initiative, African Fashion Shows and lots more.

“The efforts of the monarch encouraged me to write books for young ladies of today to know about great women of old and be inspired by their stories.

“His encouragement also extended our cultural tourism beyond Nigeria into other countries such as London, Brazil, and beyond,” she said.

NAN reports that the 2023 theme for the IWD celebration is “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.(NAN)

(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Auwalu Birnin Kudu/Ismail Abdulaziz

By Christian Njoku

Mrs Betta Edu, the National Women Leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has called for inclusion of more women in the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

Edu made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Calabar while commemorating the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD).

NAN reports that the Day is used to mark women’s achievements, raise awareness about discriminatory attitudes against women as well as take action for addressing gender parity.

The theme of the Day is “DigitAll: Innovation and technology for gender equality.”

Edu, who is a former Commissioner for Health in Cross River, said issues of Nigerian women ought to be mainstreamed and be at the front burner of States and Federal Government.

She hopes that in 2023, more women would be empowered financially with the 35 per cent affirmative action mainstreamed and implemented across board.

“In this new administration, we need more women in the Federal Executive Council and all the boards of parastatals need to be made up of 35 per cent women.

“Also, we need interventions and programmes from the Federal Government; we need quotas that are specifically dedicated to the women.

“Competence has to be the watchword, we need women with capacity, competence and can represent; we have a lot of them in the society,” she said.

She said that the kidnapped Cross River Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Gertrude Njar, would soon be free as efforts were bring made to rescue her safely.

Mrs Victoria Emmah, the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Care Well Foundation, said the IWD in the state remained a sad occasion because of the kidnap of Njar.

Emmah, whose organisation had been taking care of women and children for over 20 years, said that it has been five weeks since Njar was kidnapped.

“Until Nigeria recognises that women are not only meant to be in the kitchen and ‘the other room’ but in the boardrooms bringing meaningful strategies to address developmental issues, we will not grow like other nations.

“Women should be allowed  to take up positions like Prof. Dora Akunyili, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Oby Ezekwesili and many other women presently leading huge corporate institutions had proved that we can do it.”(NAN) (wwwnannews.ng)

Edited by Auwalu Birnin Kudu/Ismail Abdulaziz