NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Ododo, group applaud Tinubu over appointments to Okun indigenes
General News

Ododo, group applaud Tinubu over appointments to Okun indigenes

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By Angela Atabo

Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi and the Legends Club of Okun Land, have commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing indigenes of Okun origin into various federal positions.

Speaking at the civic reception in honour of the appointees in Abuja, Ododo congratulated the appointees and urged them to commit themselves to the service of excellence and ethical governance.

The governor, represented by his Security Adviser, Jerry Omdara, also encouraged the appointees to be innovative and contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

“I know Okun people to be proactive and genuine everywhere you put them, you should perform well, that is why I thank Mr President for what he saw in your area.

“For the first time, we are having so many key appointments in various government sectors, therefore, I congratulate this wonderful association for recognising those who were given one position or the other.

“For the first time, we are having the first female Deputy Director-General of DSS in Nigeria.

“Our desire also is to see Ajaokuta Steel Company come up and the President is putting his eyes there with Kogi indigene as the Minister of Steel and now an Okun person the Managing Director.”

A Lawmaker, Idris Salman, representing Ijhmu/Kabba-Bunu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, commended Legend Club for recognising and honouring the federal appointees, adding that it would spur them to work harder.

“This ceremony is not just to recognise the appointees. They are telling the recipients. We know you are there, please do more,” he said.

The President of Okun Development Association (ODA), Amb. Rotimi Akenson, said that Okun people have talents and all the appointees got the offices by merit, hard work, diligence and integrity.

“We wish you good luck as you fly the flags of Okun nation, we know you will succeed. We thank the President for identifying these talents and we hope, we are sure that you will contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,’’ he said.

The National President of Legends Club of Okun Land, Dr Femi Olubiyo, commended the appointees for their expertise and contributions.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Omoluabi Mofolami, said that Legends Club of Okun Land deemed it fit to celebrate the cerebral, articulate and brilliant minds identified to help push the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Responding on behalf of the awardees, Prof. Naisr Abdulsalam, Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company, appreciated the Legends Club of Okun Land for recognising them, adding that the president gave them opportunities and that they would utilise them properly.

Abdulsalam said that activities had started at Ajaokuta steel company, including the design, production and manufacturing of 100 units of mining crushers for companies.

He said that the company was not engaging any foreign partner, adding that all the materials were locally sourced within the Ajakuta axis.

This, according to him, gave the company the opportunity to engage the young people, train them and create jobs, now reducing insecurity in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the appointees were: The Director-General of PENCOM, Omolola Oloworaran, Executive Director/CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Muyiwa Aina.

Others were Executive Secretary, National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), Tosin Adeyanju, Managing Director, Lower Niger Basin, Mr Gbenga Olumoroti, Pro-Chancellor, Federal University of Education, Pankshin, Funsho Olumoko, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

Aminu Dantata: Nigeria has lost an irreplaceable institution – Shettima
General News

Aminu Dantata: Nigeria has lost an irreplaceable institution – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep grief over the passing of prominent Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that late Dantata, an uncle of Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, passed away at the age of 94 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Saturday.
In his condolence message on Saturday in Abuja, Shettima said the nation had lost an irreplaceable institution.
The vice-president praised the late businessman for his lifetime of service, describing him as “a living bridge that connected us to our past.
“We have not just lost a leader; we have lost an irreplaceable institution.”
He described Dantata as “one of the greatest titans in Nigeria’s philosophical history” whose departure marked the end of a vital chapter in the country’s economic and democratic evolution.
“In African tradition, when such an elderly person transitions, a vital chapter of our history departs with them.
“He was indeed among the great titans, a living bridge that connected us to our past,” Shettima added.
The vice-president extended heartfelt condolences to the Dantata family, expressing hopes that they would “find the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Shettima prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the deceased Jannatul Firdaus.
Born into the legendary Dantata family of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Dantata built on his father’s commercial legacy to become one of Nigeria’s most influential business figures.
His empire spanned construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and the oil and gas sectors.
Beyond business, Dantata was renowned for his extensive philanthropic work, funding schools, mosques, health centres, and supporting widows and the underprivileged across Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
Stakeholders seek institutional, legal framework on AfCFTA opportunities
General News

Stakeholders seek institutional, legal framework on AfCFTA opportunities

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By Felicia Imohimi

African Business Forum (ABR) and other stakeholders have advocated institutional, legal framework and infrastructure development to mitigate barriers to optimising the opportunities in African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

The stakeholders made the call at ABR Forum on “Operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfFTA)” and 30th Anniversary Commemorative Book Launch of the organisation on  in Abuja.

The forum had as its theme: “Enhancing Domestic Capacity for Optimising the Opportunities of AfCFTA for Africa’s Prosperity and Mitigating the External Threats to its implementation,”.

Mr Samuel Aworet, ABR President, identified the forum as a platform for collaboration.

He said the programme was meant to chart strategies for optimising the opportunities in AfCFTA for Africa’s prosperity and mitigation of external threats to its implementation.

Aworet, represented by ABR Vice-President, Mr Goodie Ibru, listed some of the strategies to include strengthening institutions and regulatory frameworks, building resilient supply chains and industries and improving access to finance and technology.

Others, according to him, are improve access to market, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and ensuring inclusive participation in AfCFTA.

Aworet, who identified the theme as timely, emphasised that African must build from within to thrive amid global uncertainties.

He said AfCFTA offered a holistic opportunity to drive intra-African trade, build local industries and position ‘our economies for global competitiveness”.

The president said that AfCFTA success depend on coordinated action from all actors, including governments, the private sector, financiers and development partners.

Aworet commended the Federal Government for championing platforms that unite African stakeholders in pursuit of practical solutions to the continent’s challenges.

He also commended Afrexibank for its continued leadership role in trade, development finance and private sector across the continent.

He reaffirmed the ABR’s commitment to being active partners in the process.

“We will continue to advocate enabling policies, promote investment and drive private sector participation in building a prosperous resilient Africa.

“Africa’s challenges are real, so is its promise. With unity, bold action and a focus on building domestic capacity, we can turn opportunity into lasting progress,” he said.

Dr Bamanga Tukur, Grand Patron of ABR and Founding Chairman, New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) Business Group said the theme reflected a profound commitment to bolstering Africa’s economic potential.

He said it also reflected  embracing regional integration and charting a transformative path towards sustainable prosperity.

Bashorun Randole, Chief Executive Officer, J.K Randole Group of Companies, said the discussions at the forum and initiatives were testimony to Africa’s resolve, unity and shared vision for a thriving continent.

Tukur affirmed that he was encouraged by the shared commitment to unlocking the transformative power of AfCFTA.

“Building strong domestic capacities lies at the heart of this mission—capacities in innovation, infrastructure, governance and human capital that will ensure Africa’s prosperity is not merely a dream but a living reality.

“It is through resilience, collaboration, and shared vision that we can turn challenges into stepping stones and

external pressures into opportunities for growth.

“Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our shared commitment to creating a resilient economic framework that uplifts our communities, empowers our youth, and fosters equitable progress.

“Together, we can build a future that reflects the boundless possibilities of African ingenuity and

solidarity,” he said.

Speaking on the ABR anniversary he said 30 years of dedication to Africa’s economic resilience and growth was a legacy worth honouring.

“We recognise the invaluable contributions of this institution in championing visionary leadership, fostering collaboration and advocating inclusive development across the continent.

“As ABR embarks on its next chapter, let us renew our collective commitment to fostering partnerships, investing in the continent’s future and building a brighter tomorrow for all.

“Together, we can ensure that the next 30 years are marked by even greater achievements and deeper collaborations,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Dantata’s death, monumental national loss – Tinubu
General News

Dantata’s death, monumental national loss – Tinubu

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, describing it as “a monumental loss to the nation”.

‎This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on Saturday in Abuja.

‎Dantata, 94, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday was a respected elder statesman and accomplished businessman.

‎Tinubu praised the sterling contributions of the late business mogul to Nigeria’s economic development and philanthropic outreach.

‎The President highlighted his impact on education, healthcare, and community welfare across the country.

‎He also recalled the personal relationship he shared with Dantata, marked by wise counsel and steadfast support.

‎“With the death of Alhaji Dantata today, we lost a prominent business mogul, patriot, and elder statesman who contributed significantly to the growth and development of our nation.”

‎“Alhaji Dantata will be remembered for his industry, diligence, steadfastness, and great commitment to national unity through his many business ventures and philanthropic activities that touched countless lives of Nigerians,” he said.

‎The President extended condolences to the Dantata family, the Government, and the people of Kano State.

‎He described Dantata as “Nigeria’s illustrious son” whose legacy will endure.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that beyond business, Dantata served as Commissioner for Planning and Development in the old Kano State.

‎He also held other key roles in the public sector during his lifetime. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Funeral prayer in absentia held for late Dantata in Kano
General News

Funeral prayer in absentia held for late Dantata in Kano

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By Muhammad Nur Tijani

Funeral prayer in absentia (Salatul Ga’ib) was held on Saturday in Kano for the late business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died on Friday in Dubai at the age of 94.

The prayer, held at the Umar Bin Khattab Mosque in the Kano metropolis, was led by Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman of the Kano State Council of Ulamas.

Thousands of sympathisers, including prominent personalities such as the Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, attended the prayer to honour the memory of the deceased.

Speaking after the prayers, Khalil said Salatul Ga’ib is observed for Muslims who die outside their home country or in places where funeral rites cannot be performed.

He described the late Dantata as a devout Muslim, philanthropist, and community leader who lived a life of service and humility.

Dantata was a leading figure in Nigeria’s private sector, expanding his family’s legacy into a conglomerate with interests in construction, manufacturing, finance, agriculture, and oil and gas.

He was also renowned for his philanthropic works, having funded schools, hospitals, mosques, and welfare centres across Northern Nigeria through his foundation and personal initiatives.

He is expected to be buried in Madina, Saudi Arabia, in accordance with family arrangements. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Business tycoon, Aminu Dantata, dies at 94
General News

Business tycoon, Aminu Dantata, dies at 94

136 total views today

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

Prominent Kano businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has died at 94.

His death was announced on Saturday by his Private Secretary, Malam Mustapha Abdullahi-Junaid.

“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata.

“May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. Details of the Janazah will be shared later, in sha Allah,” Junaid said in a statement.

Dantata, a scion of the influential Dantata family, was widely respected for his significant contributions to commerce, Islamic scholarship, education and humanitarian causes.

He played a pivotal role in expanding the family’s business empire, inherited from his father, Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, one of West Africa’s wealthiest merchants in the early 20th century.

Over the decades, Dantata diversified the family’s interests into construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and oil and gas sectors.

He also held several public and private sector leadership roles, mentoring generations of entrepreneurs and civic leaders.

Beyond business, he was revered for his modesty, religious devotion and commitment to community development across Northern Nigeria.

Through his charitable foundation and personal philanthropy, Dantata supported the construction and operation of schools, mosques, health centres, orphanages and social welfare programmes.

The family said further details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Agency trains 86 journalists on effective GBV  reportage
General News

Agency trains 86 journalists on effective GBV  reportage

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By Joy Akinsanya

 

The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has trained 86 journalists and media practitioners on effective reportage of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was organised by the Gender unit of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) on Thursday in Abeokuta.

 

The training had the theme: “Strengthen GBV Response Through Collaboration Learning and Safe Guarding Standard.”

 

Speaking at the training, the Project Coordinator of OGSTEP, Mrs Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, said it was organised to support the state’s efforts in addressing gender-based violence.

 

‘”As part of our programme intervention, we have gender mainstreaming across all our components and one of the areas we need support is to support the state in having a referral pathway for sexual assault incident.

 

“We have successfully done that, we have rehabilitated four sexual assault referral centres across the state.

 

“We have also equipped two of the centres to make sure survivors have a safe place to go to and where they can make their pains known.

 

“Also, we have staff that we have trained on how to handle survivors better and protect their dignity,” she said.

 

She, however, urged survivors to speak up and seek help, while emphasising that the state government has provided safe centres and trained personnel to protect their dignity.

 

Mrs Oluwatoyin Orelaja, a facilitator, who spoke on Understanding Trauma, Violence and Survivor interviewing, said that journalists need a solid understanding of what constitutes GBV, its various forms, and the impact on survivors.

 

Orelaja also emphasised the importance of putting the survivor’s needs first to avoid traumatisation.

 

She stressed the need for journalists to be sensitive in their choice of words and protection of survivors identity while reporting.

 

Another speaker, Mrs Ewajesus Fasina, a gender specialist for OGSTEP, said the media has the power to shape public opinion and influence outcomes through their reporting.

 

Fasina disclosed that 28 per cent of Nigerian women aged 25 to 29 had experienced some form of physical violence at age 15.

 

She noted that many survivors refused to speak out due to stigmatisation that comes from disclosure of identity by law enforcers.

 

“Journalists have the ability to cover various angles of a story, including health, security, and legal aspects, which is vital in the context of GBV.

 

“Without the journalists, it’s impossible to win the war against gender-based violence,” she said.

 

She said journalists should be more focused on the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child Rights Act to back up their reports.

 

A legal practitioner, Mr Damola Lapite, who spoke on Legal Framework for GBV Response: Reporting, Persecution and Survivors’ Rights, emphasised the need for confidentiality and consent to avoid traumatising survivors.

Lapite noted that journalists must maintain confidentiality and obtain consent from survivors before reporting on GBV cases.

 

He enjoined journalists to always report accurate, fair and equity stories on Gender- Based Violence.

 

One of the participants, Mr Akeem Adegbenro, commended OGSTEP for the training, saying that it has given him a deep insight on how to report GBV effectively.(NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Tinubu appoints Ismael Ahmed PCNGi chairman
General News

Tinubu appoints Ismael Ahmed PCNGi chairman

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mr Ismael Ahmed as the Executive Chairman of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi).

This is contained in a statement signed by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.

According to the statement, Ahmed will oversee the operations of the presidential initiative, aimed at mitigating the impact of the removal of fuel subsidies.

The PCNGi, a key component of the Tinubu administration’s palliative intervention programme, promotes the adoption of cheaper, more affordable, and environmentally friendly energy alternatives.

Ahmed, 45, is a graduate of the University of Abuja, where he earned a Bachelor of Law degree in 2005.

He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2006, after completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja.

The new appointee later obtained a master’s degree in International Relations, Communications, and Diplomacy from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, in 2008.

From 2018 to 2022, Ahmed served as the Senior Special Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari on the National Social Investment Programme(NSIP). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Tinubu departs Saturday for Saint Lucia, BRICS Summit in Brazil
General News

Tinubu departs Saturday for Saint Lucia, BRICS Summit in Brazil

126 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu will on Saturday depart Abuja for a two-nation visit to Saint Lucia and Brazil.

This is contained in a statement by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.

Onanuga said that President Tinubu’s first stop will be Saint Lucia for a state visit aimed at strengthening ties with Caribbean nations and enhancing South-South cooperation.

Following the visit, the President will travel to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

‎Onanuga said that while in Saint Lucia, Tinubu will pay courtesy calls on Governor-General, Cyril Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip Pierre.

‎He said a major highlight of the visit will be his address to a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly.

Onanuga said that Tinubu will also attend a high-level working luncheon with the Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

The luncheon will explore ways to deepen Nigeria-OECS cooperation in economic partnerships and cultural solidarity.

He is also scheduled to visit the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries to boost educational exchange and academic collaboration.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria and Saint Lucia maintain ties through the UN and Commonwealth, sharing African heritage and mutual interests.

The visit aims to unlock opportunities in infrastructure, education, youth development, and diplomatic cooperation.

‎Onanuga said that after his engagements in Saint Lucia, Tinubu will head to Brazil for the BRICS Summit from July 6 to 7.

He will attend at the invitation of Brazilian President Lula da Silva, recognising Nigeria as a BRICS ‘partner country.’

NAN reports that the 17th BRICS Summit has as its theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.”

Discussions will focus on expanding cooperation in social, economic, and environmental development across the Global South.

Onanuga said that senior government officials will accompany President Tinubu on both visits. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

ICAN boss tasks accountants on upholding accuracy, integrity
General News

ICAN boss tasks accountants on upholding accuracy, integrity

116 total views today

By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus

Mrs Bosede Fagbile, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Ilorin District Society, has charged members to uphold the standards of accuracy and integrity as professionals.

Fagbile gave the charge at her investiture as the 16th Chairman of ICAN Ilorin and District Society.

The new ICAN boss said the values were the pillars of the profession, saying, “’It is only by holding unto them that ICAN members can continue to earn the trust and respect of the society it serves.”

She said that the baton of leadership passed to her was a challenge to move the district and, by extension, the institute to greater heights over the next 12 months.

“By the grace of God, we shall continue to build on the solid foundation laid by all our past leaders, most especially, my immediate predecessor.

“With the collective agreement and support of the executives and all stakeholders, this tenure will explore every possible means to commence the construction of a befitting secretariat for the district.

“Now more than ever, the NDDC/ICAN Study Centre is in urgent need of a permanent space to support both prospective students and lecturers.

“We shall work closely with other stakeholders of the SSP to resolve lingering accommodation and associated challenges facing the centre,” she said.

Fagbile said that the district would continue to promote the gospel of ICAN to the younger generation through the Catch Them Young Initiative by the ICAN headquarters.

“Our goal is to increase awareness and interest in accountancy at both secondary and tertiary institutions across the state,” the new boss said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman, Investiture Committee, Mr Abdulrasheed Abdullahi, described the investiture as a celebration of leadership, legacy and vision.

“It is a moment that reflects the strength of our professional body, the continuity of service, and the renewal of our collective commitment to excellence in accountancy and public trust.

“We are confident that Fagbile’s tenure will be one of purpose-driven leadership, inclusiveness and impactful service to the district society and the larger community of professionals,” he said.

The immediate past chairman, Alhaji Tesleem Tewogbola, expressed confidence in the new set of executive members.

According to him, with Fagbile’s experience, leadership skills and the new executives’ collective efforts, the district will continue to grow with impacts in the profession and the community at large.

The programme’s chairman, Prof. Kayode Olatoke, represented by James David, a lawyer, identified the profession’s crucial role in the transparency, efficiency, and ethical operations of both public and private sectors.

“As such, ICAN members are not only financial professionals, but moral custodians of the nation’s economic integrity.

“Nigeria today, more than ever before, needs professionals who are bold, ethical, and forward-thinking.

“We need leaders like Fagbile and her incoming team; individuals who will not only uphold the high standards ICAN is known for, but who will also use their platforms to mentor younger professionals.

“They will promote accountability and challenge the status quo of mediocrity that so often threatens our national development.

“Her investiture is not merely a formality; it is a call to service, inspire, innovate, and lead with vision and verity,” Olatoke said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah and Moses Solanke

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