NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Kaduna unveils electronic vehicles loan scheme for workers
General News

Kaduna unveils electronic vehicles loan scheme for workers

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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

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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

NAHCON approves Max Air for 2025 Hajj
General News

NAHCON approves Max Air for 2025 Hajj

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Max Air

By Muhammad Nasir Bashir

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has approved Max Air to transport intending pilgrims from Jigawa for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

The Director-General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ahmed Labbo, announced this in a statement signed by the Board’s spokesman, Mr Habibu Yusuf, on Thursday in Dutse.

“NAHCON has officially appointed Max Air as the designated airline for airlifting Jigawa State pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj,” Labbo stated.

He explained that the decision followed a management meeting and the signing of an agreement with airlines at NAHCON headquarters in Abuja.

Labbo expressed satisfaction with NAHCON’s extensive preparations and assured that all necessary arrangements had been made for a smooth journey for the pilgrims.

He added that the travelling bags and uniforms for the state’s intending pilgrims are ready for collection.

Labbo further reassured the intending pilgrims of a seamless experience at home and abroad.

According to him, selecting Max Air as an air carrier for the 2025 Hajj reflects NAHCON’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and comfort for all pilgrims.

Labbo also commended Gov. Umar Namadi for his continued support and leadership, which have made the board’s operations transformative and successful. (NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola / Kamal Tayo Oropo

Our reforms will protect interests of future generations – Tinubu
General News

Our reforms will protect interests of future generations – Tinubu

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By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said the rationale behind his administration’s economic reforms was to protect the interests of future generations.

 

“For 50 years, Nigeria was spending money of generations yet unborn and servicing the West Coast of our subregion with fuel. It was getting difficult to plan for our children’s future,” he said.

 

He made these remarks at the State House while receiving a delegation of former National Assembly colleagues from the aborted Third Republic, during which he served as a Senator representing Lagos West.

 

The President highlighted the challenges faced at the beginning of his administration, especially economic and social issues, and expressed his gratitude for the delegation’s support in addressing these difficulties.

 

“We faced serious headwinds when I took over, very challenging times. Nigeria would have been bankrupt if we had not taken the actions that we took, and we had to prevent the economy’s collapse,” he said.

 

President Tinubu declared that the administration had been able to stem the tide and expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their collective support in turning things around.

 

“Today, we are sitting pretty on a good foundation. We have reversed the problem; the exchange rate is stabilising.

 

“Food prices are coming down, especially during Ramadan. We will have light at the end of the tunnel,” said the President.

 

He said firm adherence to democratic tenets was the best route to economic, social, and political development.

 

“I am happy that you are holding to your belief in democracy. I thank you for keeping faith and remembering how we started. Some people missed the ball.

 

“Some leadership failed, but we kept the faith with our democratic beliefs and freedom and the right to aspire to the highest office in the land. I am benefitting from it,” Tinubu stated.

 

Sen. Emmanuel Nwaka, who spoke on behalf of the group, expressed his delight at some of the programmes that the Tinubu administration had implemented, especially the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).

 

“I appreciate you for what you are giving to students because the student population is the largest demographic in the country. I’ve spoken with many of them, and many have benefited from it.

 

“And the next one is the CREDICORP. That’s a major way of fighting corruption.

 

“You see a young man, you come out of school, you want to buy a car, you have to put down cash, you want to buy a house, and you are not married, but with the CREDICORP, you can get things done.

 

“I’m following their activities; we are delighted,” he said.

 

Other members of the delegation were Sen. Bako Aufara Musa, Terwase Orbunde, Wasiu Logun, Amina Aliyu, Chief Obi Anoliefo and Eze Nwauwa. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Guinness Nigeria bags CSR, consumer engagement awards
General News

Guinness Nigeria bags CSR, consumer engagement awards

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

Guinness Nigeria has bagged second and third place in the Consumer Protection (CP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) categories respectively at the 2024 Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) award ceremony.

Girish Sharma, Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria, via a statement on Wednesday in Lagos, noted that the company continued to set standards for impact-driven initiatives and brand excellence.

Sharma said that winning the award reinforced the company’s dedication to making a ”real difference”; whether by empowering women through Plan W or creating unforgettable experiences with its brands.

He added that consumer-focused engagement was at the heart of everything the company does.

“These accolades are a testament to our incredible team, our valued consumers, and our unwavering drive for excellence.

“The ADVAN award for CSR Campaign of the year recognises Plan W, Guinness Nigeria’s long-standing initiative inaugurated in 2019 to empower vulnerable women across Nigeria,” he said.

Sharma explained that the Plan W programme provided women, often struggling single mothers, physically or visually impaired, with capacity building for setting up small micro businesses.

He added that it supported with trade assets, and business mentorship, enabling them to establish and sustain businesses.

According to him, till date, Plan W has benefited more than 1,400 women across eight states, including 10 per cent of participants living with disabilities.

The Guinness Nigeria MD said that the Guinness Nigeria’s Smirnoff Ice “Chill and Win Big” campaign, which secured 2nd place, was recognised for its bold and innovative approach to consumer engagement.

Yinka Bakare, Marketing Director, Guinness Nigeria, said the company, aside marketing products, create movements, culture-shaping experiences, and connections that matter.

According to him, ‘Chill and Win Big’ was more than a promotion; it was a bold statement about how we reward loyalty and bring excitement to our consumers’ lives.

He said that the recognition underscored the company’s commitment to pioneering industry-defining campaigns that push boundaries, captivate audiences, and cement its brands as market leaders.

Bakare added that the company would continue to raise the bar, delivering groundbreaking experiences that keep consumers engaged and excited.

“With these latest recognitions, Guinness Nigeria continues to cement its reputation as a leader in sustainability-driven initiatives and consumer engagement.

“The company’s ongoing investments in CSR programmes like Plan W and dynamic marketing campaigns underscore its commitment to delivering impact beyond business success.

“As the industry evolves, Guinness Nigeria remains at the forefront, driving innovation, inclusivity, and consumer engagement in ways that shape market trends and redefine brand experiences.

“Its recent achievements at the ADVAN Awards serve as further validation of the company’s ability to balance commercial success with social impact, setting a benchmark for others in the industry,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker

NOA intensifies campaign on preservation of public assets in Ebonyi
General News

NOA intensifies campaign on preservation of public assets in Ebonyi

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By Christian Ogbonna

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Ebonyi has urged citizens on the need for attitudinal change towards protection of public assets and critical infrastructure.

Mr Theophilus Nwokpor, Agency’s Director in the state gave the charge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abakaliki.

Nwokpor decried the way public assets were being vandalised by citizens, especially on electrical facilities, public schools, telecommunication and rail facilities among others.

The director said the Agency had visited communities in some Ebonyi Local Government Areas to enlighten the people on the need to safeguard such properties around them.

“The citizens should develop sense of ownership of critical infrastructure such as electrical installations, telecom assets, rail lines and others.

“Infrastructure is to be protected by community within which such assets are located.

“Yes, we have an ongoing campaign focusing on conservation and protection of critical infrastructure. The goal is to make the citizens know that protection of such assets is their responsibility,” Nwokpor stated.

He urged the general public to desist from vandalism of such assets.

“It costs a fortune to put these critical infrastructure and assets in place.

“It is disheartening when Nigerians vandalise public assets like oil installations, rail track, telecom assets and others.

“It is high time we took the ownership of critical infrastructure being put in our place by respective governments at different levels which helps quality service delivery.

“Boreholes, roads, bridges, pipelines, electrical cables, schools, airports, telecommunication infrastructure are put in place for us to use,” he said.

The director blamed scrap dealers over the situation and moved to join force with the Nigeria Police Force to arrest and prosecute the people involved.

“We have met with the community heads in Abakaliki Local Government Area; Agbaja Community and other rural areas in the efforts to reduce vandalism of public infrastructure,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

NSE confers fellowship on 178 engineers, urges local content development 
General News

NSE confers fellowship on 178 engineers, urges local content development 

342 total views today

 

By Angela Atabo

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) on Wednesday conferred fellowship on 178 members.

The NSE President, Margaret Oguntala, while conferring the fellowship in Abuja, urged the conferees to promote Nigerian content development.

She explained that the fellowships were being conferred on engineers who had demonstrated exceptional leadership and had made remarkable contributions to the advancement of the engineering profession.

She said it was also a well-deserved recognition for their hard work, dedication and leadership.

“In addition to your duty as torchbearers of the promotion of the standards and ethics of NSE, I urge you to promote Nigerian content development in all ramifications.

“It is the only way that sustainable infrastructure delivery can be guaranteed in Nigeria.

“Let your work inspire and set benchmarks for others to follow. Embrace this honour with a sense of responsibility and commitment.

“Be the torchbearers of progress, the champions of quality, and the advocates for sustainable development,” she said.

Oguntala also called on stakeholders from various sectors to join forces with NSE to jointly provide meaningful support to the government.

She said that this was in the areas of tackling critical national issues such as improving Nigeria’s infrastructure, combating diseases, creating employment, alleviating poverty and generally improving the living standards of our citizens.

The NSE leader added that the collective strength of engineers alongside other professionals would undoubtedly unlock the potential that would bring about the much-needed development in the country.

The Chairman, NSE’s Board of Fellows, Kamila Maliki, in an address of welcome, commended the conferees for distinguishing themselves.

He charged them to play active roles in the nation’s infrastructural growth.

The Special Guest of Honour, Gov. Umar Namadi, of Jigawa, commended NSE for contributing to the nation’s development.

Namadi, represented by Malam Bala Ibrahim, Secretary to the Government of Jigawa State, urged the engineers to continue to contribute their quotas to nation-building.

He also called on them to always project the ethics of the profession.

The governor said his administration prioritised infrastructure development and would continue to partner with engineers for sustainable development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Mark Longyen

Shettima calls for unity to sustain Tinubu’s reform
General News

Shettima calls for unity to sustain Tinubu’s reform

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Unity

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, has called for unity and collaboration among leaders to sustain the gains  of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.

Shettima made the call during an Iftar hosted by President Tinubu for Senate leaders at the new State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.

Shettima emphasised that Nigeria had reached a crucial point where Tinubu’s bold leadership and well-thought-out policies must be properly executed to create lasting change.

He noted that Nigerians were beginning to see the benefits of these reforms, such as falling food prices, lower petrol costs, and stability in the forex market.

He also highlighted the economy’s projected growth of 4.3 to 4.6 per cent in 2025, commending Tinubu’s “bold vision” and courageous decisions.

Shettima urged political leaders to collaborate in maintaining this momentum, stating that unity was essential for the nation’s progress.

He expressed gratitude to the Senate for its cooperative relationship with the executive branch and urged lawmakers to see themselves as one family, regardless of political affiliation.

“What unites us supersedes whatever divides us,” he said, assuring of continued collaboration between the two arms of government.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio thanked President Tinubu for his support of the 10th Senate and pledged continued cooperation.

He prayed for divine wisdom and good health for both the President and Vice- President, to ensure the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The event was attended by key senators, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and former Senate President Ahmed Lawan.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Huawei trains civil servants on green energy through solar initiatives
General News

Huawei trains civil servants on green energy through solar initiatives

380 total views today

 

 

By Jessica Dogo

Huawei Nigeria Board Director, Jim Zhang, has reaffirmed the company’s contribution to accelerating the adoption of green energy in Nigeria through its solar solutions and initiatives.

Zhang said this at the opening ceremony of a two-day training jointly organised by Huawei, Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, and Ministry of Power, on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that it was part of efforts to drive Nigeria toward a sustainable and energy-efficient future.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training, which has 55 participants, is  tagged, “Green Energy and Solar Power Training”.

The Board Director disclosed that in the company’s 26 years in Nigeria, Huawei had collaborated with MTN and Airtel to provide the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4G) and Fifth Industrial Revolution (5G) technology for Nigeria.

“Asides this, we provide digital power, smart PV, and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) for Nigeria.

“Huawei has been in Nigeria for 26 years, with two headquarters in Lagos and Abuja.

“We also have a training centre, an operations centre, and an innovation centre in Lagos. This allows us to create numerous job opportunities in Nigeria,” he said.

He said that the company also supplied network infrastructure for Galaxy Backbone and some offices.

“We have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. We provided the first 3G, 4G, and 5G networks in the country.

“We have already supplied almost 100 megawatts of power through our smart PV and ESS systems in Nigeria.

“Additionally, we collaborate with several universities, offering training programmes for students and professionals,” he said.

He said that Huawei offered comprehensive and flexible solutions with rapid deployment to ensure seamless integration of digital equipment.

According to him, the solutions address electricity challenges and improve office environments.

“This year, we look forward to working closely with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government and businesses to provide solutions to these pressing challenges.

“We look forward to Huawei’s collaboration in driving the nation towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future.

We are committed to collaborating closely and supporting Nigeria’s progress,” he said.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, commended Huawei for the initiative.

Walson-Jack, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of Common Services Office, Dr Danjuma Kalba, said that the training would be institutionalised over time.

She said that aside from the economic benefits and cost reduction, the initiative was also environmentally friendly.

She said that the programme would be ongoing within the civil service, and urged participants to seize the opportunity and understand solar energy, and also familiarise with its applications.

“We will be able to institutionalise this training, and to Huawei, we can not thank you enough for making yourselves available to organise this training for us. We hope it will be a continuous initiative.

“The world is increasingly focusing on climate change and its effects on the planet. Therefore, we must align ourselves with global policies on renewable energy.

“In our respective ministries and partnerships, we will continue to adapt to the necessary changes, ” she said.

She urged the participants to seize the opportunity to understand solar energy, particularly its maintenance and associated challenges, and also to familiarise themselves with its applications.

Earlier, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, expressed optimism that the participants would leave with invaluable skills that would benefit their careers.

Adelabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, said that the success of Nigeria’s energy depended on collaborations between the government, industry and technology sectors.

He said that the partnership with Huawei was a crucial one in bringing state-of-art technology and expertise to the table.

“By working together, we can build the infrastructure, setting up requisite policies and the human capital needed to accelerate the transition to green energy economy.

“The ministry has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s transition, focusing on clean, sustainable and inclusive energy solutions.

“As we embark on this journey, it is important to remember that the future we are building today will have a profound impact on generations to come,’b’ he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Niger govt commits to women empowerment in Agric, food production
General News

Niger govt commits to women empowerment in Agric, food production

365 total views today

 

By Rita Iliya

The Niger Government has reaffirmed its commitment towards empowering women to play active roles in agriculture and food production.

 

Musa Bawa, the Commissioner for Agriculture, gave the commitment at a ceremony to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration in Minna on Wednesday.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that theme of the event is: “Empowering Women in Agriculture: Cultivating Resilience, Innovation and Leadership”

 

Represented by Dr Matthew Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary, Bawa said that women possessed great potential to change the narrative if given adequate support.

 

He said that women’s roles were critical to driving the needed growth in agriculture and development of the society at large.

 

“We are here to celebrate women and to inform the world that women are important. If you want the society to progress, you need women.

 

“We are here to promote women’s inclusive participation in agriculture, to practice agriculture on a large scale, and to engage in agro-business,” he said.

 

The commissioner listed access to land, finance and technology among others, as the major challenges faced by women in agriculture.

 

“We are here to discuss these challenges and proffer solutions. Women must know that they are key players in the agriculture sector” he added.

 

Bawa further said that the state government had implemented a variety of empowerment programmes for women in agriculture.

 

“We are providing small farm machineries that are women-friendly, this will enable women farmers to engage in crop production and animal husbandry.

 

“The ultimate goal of these empowerment programmes is to make women self-reliant and economically empowered,” he said.

 

Earlier, Malam Adamu Garba-Maikasuwa, the Director, Agric Services and Leakage, said that it was highly reasonable and productive to empower women to participate in agriculture.

 

“Women are the backbone of our food system, and it is essential to celebrate their power, resilience and contributions to the society,” he said.

 

Also speaking, Mrs Grace Disa, the State Coordinator, Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria, commended the ministry for acknowledging women’s efforts in agriculture.

 

Hajiya Hadiza Sheru, the Permanent Secretary, the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, described women’s roles in food production as ‘critical and important’

 

The Guest Lecturer, Prof. Abigael Jirgi, said that women accounted for between 70 and 80 per cent of Nigeria’s agriculture labour force.

 

Jirgi, a lecturer in the Federal University of Technology, Minna, said that women played significant roles in agriculture and food production globally.(NAN)(www.nannewa.ng)

Edited by Azubuike Okeh

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