NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
NGO organises training for senior citizens
General News

NGO organises training for senior citizens

476 total views today

By Angela Atabo

Wiki for Senior Citizens Network, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), on Monday, under its Wiki loves Africa yearly campaign, organised  a training and excursion for some senior citizens in the FCT.

Mrs Oby Ezeilo, Founder, WIKI for Senior Citizens Network, said that the training programme aimed to bridge the digital gap and empower senior citizens to contribute to the global knowledge pool.

Ezeilo said that it was also geared towards promoting knowledge sharing, digital literacy on the use of technology to upgrade their lifestyles.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Wiki loves Africa is a yearly campaign organised by Wikimedia Foundation to encourage Africans to showcase their culture, tradition, and stories.

The 2025 edition has as its theme: ”Farm to Plate”.

According to her, the training for today ”Farm-to-Plate is what Wiki Loves Africa project is all about.

”This year’s project has to do with ”Farm to Plate. That is, anything that you can produce from your farm processes it, make it and serve it on the table.

”It involves local dishes, African dishes, farm implement, eating tools, farm produce, farm processes and even cooking.”

NAN reports that at the end of the training, participants were also taking on excursion to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA) to learn about space, space management, space activities, and astronauts among others.

Meanwhile some participants have lauded the NGO for promoting knowledge sharing, digital literacy and engaging older adults.

The senior citizens praised the initiative for its engaging and informative content, which covered topics such as digital literacy, Wiki Commons, and the Wiki Loves Africa project.

A Senior citizen, and participant, Violet Uttazi, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to learn new skills and explore the world of technology.

”It is like learning and playing. I commend Wiki for Senior Citizens Network for the initiative and for helping senior citizens to be active by learning new skills.

Uttazi called for constant payment of pension of retirees as well as more engagement for senior citizens.

She also encouraged more Nigerians to emulate Wiki for Senior Citizens Network and always remember older adults.

Another Senior citizen, Mr Obi Ezeilo, emphasised the importance of digital literacy for senior citizens, adding that the training was interesting and an eye opener.

”I am happy to give knowledge and still contribute to the nation as a volunteer.

”Visiting the space museum was also an interesting experience. I now know a lot about what they do there, the outer space, and what these things look like.

”So I thank the organisers of Wiki for Senior Citizens Network, because I had an engaging day.

”The unfortunate thing is that organisations hardly engage senior citizens; they mostly focus on youths, children and so on.

”So I urge government and other NGOs to begin to think of dedicating some of their efforts in addressing the challenges and the well-being of adults in Nigeria,” he said.

Another participant, Florence Oguah, highlighted the benefits of the programme adding that it relieved stress and thought her about data security among others.

”As a senior citizen, I am grateful to Wiki for Senior Citizens Network for the opportunity to horn my digital skills,” she said.

Oguah called on the government to encourage and support organisations like Wiki for Senior Citizens Network caring for the elderly and prioritising the needs of the elderly. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Nigeria to host 7th African Spelling Bee April 9
General News

Nigeria to host 7th African Spelling Bee April 9

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By Akpan Glory

Nigeria is set to host the 7th African Spelling Bee (ASB) from April 9 to 13, marking the first time the prestigious competition will be held in a West African nation.

Mr Abdulsalam Ibrahim, National Coordinator of the Nigeria Spelling Bee, announced this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday.

Established in 2016, the ASB has previously been hosted by South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi.

The Nigeria Spelling Bee, operating under the Bee Spelling Competition Initiative, serves as the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for this year’s event.

Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Education, the organisation conducts spelling competitions across all Nigerian states and represents the country in international contests, including the ASB.

According to Ibrahim, the African Spelling Bee was founded with the vision of celebrating the African child, inspiring literacy, and creating a platform for connection and confidence-building among young learners.

He stated that the competition aims to enhance literacy and academic excellence while cultivating a strong reading culture.

The national coordinator noted that the competition also seeks to develop self-esteem and interpersonal skills while building human capital through capacity development.

He said it also aims to promote community-based partnerships and celebrate the cultural diversity and unity of African children.

He noted that this year’s event will bring together the top National Spelling Bee Champions from over 20 African countries.

They include; Benin, Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

“The ASB embodies the spirit of Pan-Africanism by uniting young people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate linguistic prowess and cultural heritage.

“Through spelling competitions, African general knowledge quizzes, and cultural exchanges, the event fosters unity and mutual respect among participants, nurturing a generation poised to lead and transform the continent”.

Ibrahim highlighted Nigeria’s strong track record in the ASB, having secured multiple championship titles in previous editions.

He also noted that Nigerian spellers are preparing to defend the Senior Championship title won by Praises Minabowa in the last African Spelling Bee, reflecting the nation’s commitment to educational excellence and youth development.

“The upcoming event in Abuja is expected to be the largest yet, with more than 20 African countries anticipated to participate, each presenting their top six champions vying for the coveted title of African Spelling Bee Champion in both the senior and junior categories.

“Beyond being a competition, the event will be a celebration of Africa’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage, reflecting the continent’s dedication to fostering education, unity, and excellence among its youth,” Ibrahim said. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Leadership deficit fuels Nigeria’s troubles – Don
General News

Leadership deficit fuels Nigeria’s troubles – Don

338 total views today

 

By Henry Oladele

Prof. Femi Badejo, an academic and writer, says Nigeria’s problems are rooted in a leadership deficit, urging citizens to embrace better conduct and improved leadership standards.

 

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at his 70th birthday on Saturday, Badejo noted that poor leadership remains the nation’s major hurdle to progress.

 

He stressed leadership must be improved at every level, not just among political elites, but also within the younger generation preparing to take over.

“In other countries, leadership development begins early, even before primary school. Here, we lack focus,” he lamented.

 

Reflecting on his birthday, Badejo expressed gratitude, saying he felt immense joy from the love shown by friends and colleagues.

 

“I’m overwhelmed and truly happy to be appreciated by those I’ve worked with over the years,” he said warmly.

 

On retirement, the academic, writer and diplomat, insisted he would remain active, continuing to write and contribute to society for as long as possible.

 

“A professor never retires. As long as I can think and write, I remain active,” he affirmed.

 

Guest Speaker, Prof. Toyin Falola, delivered a keynote on ‘Power, Privilege and Philosophy’, exploring Africa’s intellectual traditions and their global relevance.

 

Falola explained that African philosophy offers critical insights into neocolonialism, inequality, and reimagining power dynamics for a fairer society.

 

“African ethics like Ubuntu challenge privilege and promote justice. These ideas reshape global conversations on equality and independence,” he noted.

 

He urged for African thought to be central in education, policy, and global dialogue, confronting structures that suppress its voice. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Establish fund for women with special needs, Expert urges govt.
Gender , General News

Establish fund for women with special needs, Expert urges govt.

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By Vivian Emoni

Dr Eugenia Ndukwe, a business management consultant, has called on the three tiers of government to establish a fund specifically for women with special needs, such as autism, for their entrepreneurship endeavours.

Ndukwe made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday, in commemoration of the International Women’s Day (IWD).

She said that the fund, when established, could also help to promote inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that these women have equal opportunities to succeed in their education, training and other endeavours.

“The period of transition from dependence to independence is a daunting one, so, supports for this transition will be quite impactful.

“This year’s International Women’s Day is a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality, and the work still to be done.

“I believe women should be celebrated for their resilience, determination and contributions to their communities.”

According to Ndukwe, revolutionising the lives of young autistic women in Nigeria through various innovative initiative such as “autispreneurship” is necessary for the stability of the society.

“Autistic individuals face unique emotional, physiological, psychological and social challenges, which can be overwhelming.

“While support systems are often in place during childhood, the transition to adulthood can be daunting; our project offers a beacon of hope, empowering these remarkable women to thrive.

“Autispreneurship goes beyond education and literacy. It provides a comprehensive platform for young autistic women to acquire skills, knowledge and confidence.

“Our mission is to enable them to create innovative solutions, generate sustainable income and make informed financial decisions through the acquisition of entrepreneurial skills development, life skills coaching and so on.”

She added that the initiative would provide a comprehensive support system, while the “autispreneurship” would bridge the gap in services for young autistic women, enabling them to unlock their full potential and lead fulfilling and independent lives.

“I believe women can be assisted through a range of initiatives, including mentorship programmes that pair them with experienced professionals and entrepreneurs.

“These women should have access to funding and resources for business start-ups and expansion, as well as training and education programmes that focus on entrepreneurship, leadership and digital skills.

“There should be advocacy efforts that promote policy change which should raise awareness about the challenges faced by women.

“There should also be community-based initiatives that provide support networks and promote social inclusion,” Ndukwe added.

NAN reports that the International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, to remember women’s fight for equality and liberation along with the women’s rights movement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

First Lady wins ‘Woman of The Year’ award
General News

First Lady wins ‘Woman of The Year’ award

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By Oluwatope Lawanson

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has emerged winner of the Independent Awards 2024 for Best Woman of the Year, dedicating the award to Nigerian women and youth.

She praised their tireless contributions towards the nation’s growth and development at the Independent Awards 2024 Gala Night in Lagos.

Mrs Tinubu, a former Lagos Central senator, was represented by Hajia Fatima Tajudeen, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

She said the award was dedicated to every Nigerian woman and youth contributing to the country’s progress, describing them as Nigeria’s unsung heroes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Independent Newspaper Awards recognise landmark achievements in politics, entertainment, business, education, and other sectors.

Tinubu thanked the board of Independent Newspaper for the honour. “I receive this prestigious award with deep appreciation,” she said during her acceptance speech.

“This award will inspire me further to contribute my quota to national development,” she added, expressing her gratitude to the event organisers.

Meanwhile, Chief Olabode George, PDP leader in the South-West, urged President Bola Tinubu to resolve the ongoing crisis in Rivers State before it escalates.

George, the event’s chairman, said the state was vital to Nigeria’s economy and should not be allowed to descend into chaos or unrest.

He warned that allowing the crisis to worsen could lead to national instability, referencing past civil unrest from Maiduguri to Port Harcourt.

George praised the Independent Newspaper for celebrating Nigeria’s achievers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 36 individuals, organisations, government CEOs, and managing directors were honoured for their contributions to Nigeria’s development.

Awardees include Gov. Seyi Makinde as Independent Man of the Year, and Chief Bisi Akande, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award 2024.

Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra was awarded Governor of the Year 2024 (Urban Renewal), while Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River won for Economic Transformation.

Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State received the Governor of the Year 2024 (Solid Minerals Development), alongside Gov. Hope Uzodinma, among others.

In entertainment, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, known as Kiekie, was awarded Social Media Influencer of the Year for her impact in the industry.

In business, Otunba Mike Adenuga, Chairman of Globacom, was recognised. Others awarded include Charles Odi, DG of SMEDAN, and Prof Abayomi Fasina of FUOYE. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG urges stakeholders to fast-track SDGs implementation
General News

FG urges stakeholders to fast-track SDGs implementation

346 total views today
By Salif Atojoko

Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts toward the achievement of the SDGs by 2030.

She stated this in her keynote address delivered on her behalf by Dr Bala Yunusa, Senior Technical Adviser, at the North-East Regional Consultation in Gombe.

The event was part of Nigeria’s Voluntary National Review (VNR) preparation for the High-Level Political Forum in New York in July.

Orelope-Adefulire noted that world leaders established the Forum on Sustainable Development through the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) as a follow up and review mechanism for the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that VNRs serve as the cornerstone of this review process.

Nigeria is currently undertaking its third VNR, engaging stakeholders across the six geopolitical zones to assess implementation progress, challenges and prospects.

Orelope-Adefulire stressed the need to fast-track progress on all the SDGs, noting that global progress on the goals was mixed, with Nigeria not exempted.

Citing the 2024 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report, she stated that “Lack of progress toward the SDGs is universal, but developing countries and the world’s poorest people bear the brunt.”

She said ” currently, only 17 per cent of SDG targets are on track, nearly half show minimal or moderate progress, while over a third have stalled or regressed.”

At the national level, she said dwindling financial resources, the COVID-19 pandemic, and persistent insecurity had combined to slow-down Nigeria’s progress toward achieving the SDGs.

Orelope-Adefulire emphasised that the SDGs could not be achieved through isolated programmes but must be carefully integrated into national and sub-national policies and development plans.

She said robust Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER), such as the SDGs Progress reporting and the VNR, were essential.

Orelope-Adefulire underscored the need for collaboration across the public and private sectors, the UN Development System, the donor community, academia, and civil society to ensure that no one was left behind.

She said world leaders had reaffirmed their commitment to take “bold, ambitious, accelerated, just, and transformative actions to fast-track the achievement of the SDGs.”

This, she said, was through the “Pact for the Future,” adopted during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2024.

She referenced Mr António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, who said massive investment and more effective partnerships were needed to drive critical transitions across food, energy and digital connectivity to unlock progress across the goals.

Orelope-Adefulire commended institutional members of the Multi-Stakeholder Core Working Group for Nigeria’s 2025 VNR for their dedication in organising and guiding the entire VNR process.

“I appreciate and commend members of the Core Working Group from relevant MDAs, the UN Development System, the Private Sector Advisory Group, the Civil Society Strategy Group and academia.

“Your commitment is highly valued. The consulting team for this VNR is equally appreciated,” she said.

In his presentation on the Overview of SDGs Implementation in Nigeria and 2025 VNR Process, Yunusa referenced the UN DESA Report of 2024.

He highlighted the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions and climate chaos on SDG progress.

According to the report, if current trends persist, no fewer than 590 million people may still live in extreme poverty by 2030.

It said without substantial acceleration in poverty reduction, fewer than three in 10 countries would halve national poverty.

It added that nearly one in 10 people globally would face hunger, and 2.4 billion people would experience moderate to severe food insecurity.

As part of Nigeria’s VNR consultative process, no fewer than 150 participants drawn from the six states of the North East were updated on the institutional frameworks for the implementation of the SDGs.

They focused on progress on the 17 SDGs, implementation, challenges and lessons learnt.

At the end of the Regional Consultation, participants reflected on these and offered context specific recommendations.

They also suggested implementation strategies to fast-track the achievement of the SDGs by 2030.

Key stakeholders, including representatives of the Ministries, Departments and Agencies, private sector, civil society, academia, persons with disabilities and youths were in attendance.

In his address of welcome, Sulaiman Turaki, the Focal Person of the SDGs Project Support Unit in Gombe State, described the Regional Consultation as a critical dialogue that would shape Nigeria’s next VNR.

He said it would ensure that the country’s progress, challenges, and opportunities were accurately reflected and that no one was left behind in the overall development journey.

“This gathering is a testament to our collective commitment to advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Goal,” said Turaki.

He called on stakeholders to engage actively, share insights, and propose solutions that will make a real impact.

“Let us embrace this opportunity to drive meaningful change, inspire innovative policies, and accelerate sustainable development efforts across the North-East Zone,” Turaki stated.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

Niger, NGOs train 10,000 youths on financial literacy
General News

Niger, NGOs train 10,000 youths on financial literacy

464 total views today

 

By Rita Iliya

Niger Government says it will train no fewer than 10,000 youths, particularly young women, on financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports in Minna on Saturday that the training is in partnership with two NGOs; Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) and MasterCard Foundation.

 

At the inauguration of the online training tagged: ‘Transforming Nigerian Youth Programme (TNY)’, Mrs Hauwa Bako, Special Adviser to Niger Governor on Social Investment Programme, said the programme would equip youths with entrepreneurial business management skills.

 

Bako said that the programme was aimed at enhancing young entrepreneurs’ mindsets for transformation, employability and management capacity development.

 

“The programme is designed for mostly young female entrepreneurs and aspiring businesswomen offering both online and in-person training sessions to foster entrepreneurial skills to succeed.

 

“The programme provides 60 per cent online and 40 per cent offline training, targeting 80 per cent young female and 20 per cent male entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35,” she said.

 

According to her, the online training is open to all Niger residents, and interested persons can register via the link: bit.ly/tny25niger.

 

She said benefits of the programme include business growth and mentorship, business registration and branding support, job placement and entrepreneurship linkages and certification.

 

In her remarks, the state’s Commissioner for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME), Mrs Elizabeth Shaba, noted that “the programme package does not include starter packs, business grants or loans.”

 

Also speaking, Mrs Halima Rabiu from EDC, explained that the programme could also be done 100 per cent online, and participants can learn at their own pace.

 

“The courses are easy to understand, and we also have community physical learning for the state government to bring the women together to learn through zones,” she said.

 

Similarly, Mr Olawale Anifowose, Director Programmes and Partnerships of MasterCard Foundation, disclosed that the programme was designed for 10,000 entrepreneurs in Niger State, focusing on micro enterprises.

 

“The programme promises to build on past successes, offering an enhanced curriculum that covers critical areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing and digital skills,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Stanley Nwanosike/Ismail Abdulaziz

Tinubu vows to build resilient nation
General News

Tinubu vows to build resilient nation

427 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu says he understands fully, what Nigerians are going through but that the present economic reform is necessary to build a resilient country and guarantee the future of children.

 

President Tinubu said this when he received organisers of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Friday.

 

“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country.

 

“We were spending the investment of the future of our children yet unborn; we were spending their rights, and poverty has no religious basis.

 

“There’s no religious colouration, no identity. It affects all, and we must fight it together,” the President emphasised.

 

On the request to return mission schools that governments had taken over, Tinubu said schools were subnational entities, not owned by the Federal Government.

 

“I’ve been a good example as the governor of Lagos State. I returned all the mission schools,” he said.

 

The President commended the Catholic body’s commitment to education and healthcare.

 

He added that he set up NELFUND to ensure that no student dropped out of school due to lack of funds for tuition fees, and promised to look at ways to help students of private institutions that NELFUND did not cover.

 

Tinubu noted that the security agencies were already curtailing the nation’s insecurity, stressing that adherents of all religions felt the impact of the efforts.

 

He highlighted the competition among operators in the petroleum sector, the bountiful harvest enjoyed by farmers, and the lower prices of commodities, adding that investments were flowing into the country.

 

“There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that.

 

Most Reverend Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Archbishop of Owerri and the CBCN President, who led the delegation of 20 Bishops from across the country, said they were at the State House to congratulate President Tinubu on his victory at the polls.

 

“Your government’s policy mantra is anchored on the principles of Renewed Hope.

 

“In this regard, we are pleased to inform you that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, has declared this year as the year of hope, the Jubilee Year of Hope, a theme we adopted for our conference.

 

“We came with the final fruits of our deliberations and will share them with you,” said Ugorji.

 

He stated that the removal of fuel subsidies had undoubtedly affected the people and commended the tax reform initiative, which he believes will will “generate, in the long run, more resources for advancing the common good.”

 

He acknowledged the efforts of security agencies to curtail insecurity in the land.

 

He called more concerted efforts to “rekindle hope and inspire confidence in the hearts of our people.”

 

The bishops called for a well-defined vision of religion as a force for moral integrity and patriotic unity without necessarily impinging on individuals’ fundamental rights.

 

According to them, efforts should be made to ensure that religious practice in Nigeria fosters unity rather than division.

 

On religious pilgrimages, the body said that government should hands-off sponsorship to curtail waste and corruption.

 

“The government should allow religious groups to take full responsibility for organising pilgrimages.

 

“In their current structure, the national and state pilgrims’ boards serve neither their adherents nor the broader interest of the nation.

 

“You’re undoubtedly aware of the instances of corruption that have led to the removal of some board executives to ensure greater efficiency and accountability.

 

“We would propose that public funds be redirected towards pressing national needs,” the CBCN President said.

 

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, who was also at the event, recalled his attendance at the Charismatic Bishop Conference in 2024.

 

He emphasised the need for the nation to remain together, to be united, to be focused, and to maintain support for the government, even in the face of temporary hardship.

 

Mohammed said security had greatly improved in the nation.

 

“In 2023, I know how difficult it was to move from Abuja to Kaduna; it is almost impossible just to take your car, fuel it, and begin to go on that road.

 

“Today, this is not the case. We know that farmers used to find it extremely difficult to go to the farms.

 

“We know that this has not completely gone away, but it is a reality that today, no one asks questions to move from Abuja to Kaduna or any part of the North.”

 

He said the national value charter that the President championed in his 2025 New Year message would soon be launched to ensure that Nigerians came together to reclaim lost values.

 

According to him, the National Orientation Agency is working to ensure that both religions teach the Bible and the Quran in schools and the return of civic education.

 

Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, also attended the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Kaduna unveils electronic vehicles loan scheme for workers
General News

Kaduna unveils electronic vehicles loan scheme for workers

303 total views today

By Hussaina Yakubu

Kaduna State Government has launched an electric vehicle (EV) initiative aimed at providing civil servants in the state with affordable and eco-friendly transportation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the scheme was unveiled at the Murtala Square, Kaduna on Friday by Gov. Uba Sani, represented by his Deputy, Dr Hadiza Balarabe.

Sani said that the scheme offered tricycles and electric motorcycles through subsidised loans, with repayments deducted instalmentally  from the workers’ salaries.

He emphasised the state government’s commitment to easing the recurring transportation challenges for the civil servants while promoting eco-friendly mobility.

He said that the scheme was a partnership between the state government, the Nigerian Labour Congress, Paynacle Digital Services Limited, and Optimus Bank.

According to Sani, the initiative seeks to ease the transportation challenges of the workers while promoting clean energy.

The Managing Director, Bashir Ibrahim, said to ensure the project’s sustainability, Paynacle Digital Services planned to establish EV charging stations and maintenance hubs across Kaduna’s three senatorial districts.

He also revealed that 10,000 electric motorcycles would be made available for the workers, while over 2,000 jobs would be created in assembly, maintenance, and technical support.

He said, additionally, the civil servants would enjoy a 50 per cent discount on the charging costs.

The official hailed Sani’s administration for making Kaduna the first state to implement a large-scale electric mobility project for the workers.

He said that this aligned with the efforts to improve transportation, create jobs, and reduce carbon emissions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Ramadan: Customs CG calls for empowerment of less privileged
General News , Religious

Ramadan: Customs CG calls for empowerment of less privileged

460 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has called on Muslims to use the Ramadan period to support and empower the less privileged in the society.

Adeniyi made the call on Thursday evening in Abuja at the Al-Habibiyya Mosque breaking of fast (Iftar) and daily feeding of about 2, 500 fasting Muslims and less privileged.

He described the initiative as a reflection of Islamic teachings on caring for the less privileged, while calling on other organisations to emulate the laudable gesture.

“This is an injunction of Almighty Allah. This is what we should do during fasting; care for those that are less privileged through programmes like this.

“We should have more of these in different parts of the country because many people are fasting and wondering how they will break their fast.

”It is the reality of our times, and more Nigerians should be encouraged to undertake this noble cause in a disciplined manner,” he said.

The customs boss commended Al-Habibiyya for the orderliness in the feeding programme, stressing the need for Nigerians to embrace discipline, orderliness, and structured planning in their daily activities.

“There was a time in this country when we ran campaigns about doing things in an orderly fashion.

“We need to get back to that because it helps. Imagine how easy we  handled over 2,000 people in this little space because it was properly planned,” he said.

The National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyya Mosque, Sheik Fuad Adeyemi, said that the feeding programme was organised every Ramadan to support the less privileged, regardless of religious belief.

“It is important that we show support to the less privileged, that is why we organise this feeding programme on a daily basis throughout the Ramadan period.

“When the less privileged are supported and empowered there will be peace and unity in the society,” Adeyemi said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by Islamic scholars, faith-based organisations and Muslims from various backgrounds. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

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