NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

11th Andrei Stenin Int’l photo contest commences in Moscow – Official

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By Fortune Abang

Oksana Oleinik, Curator of the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest for Young Photographers, on Wednesday announced the commencement of the 11th edition of the competition.

 

Oleinik who disclosed this in a statement, said the award ceremony for the contest would take place in Moscow from September to October, 2025.

 

According to him, the city of Moscow had officially begun accepting submissions for the 11th International Press Photo Contest for Young Photographers, in memory of Andrei Stenin.

 

“The contest, named after the distinguished photojournalist from the Rossiya Segodnya media group, who tragically lost his life in the summer of 2014, near Donetsk, traditionally commenced on his birthday, Dec. 22.

 

“We are delighted to announce the commencement of the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest, for the eleventh consecutive year.

 

“As in previous editions, we anticipate a substantial influx of fascinating entries, from young photojournalists.

 

“Amidst challenges and uncertainties in today’s world, our contest consistently garners the interest of professional photographers from numerous countries and continents.

 

“The global photography community remains steadfast in its commitment to professional integrity, undeterred by any political impediments,” Oleinik stated.

 

He urged young photo professionals, participants and visitors of the contest to explore themes about compassion and humanity, amidst a world, fraught with adversity and turmoil.

 

Such themes, according to him, convey narratives, through their visual expression, and makes them accessible to diverse international audience.

 

“To achieve this, we organise road-show exhibitions, showcasing the works of the winners and finalists, in various countries.

 

“The unifying essence of our contest is evident, and we will do our best to nurture this invaluable mission; kindness will save the world,” he said.

 

The contest in five categories, include; top news, sports, my planet, portrait; Hero of our time and top views.

 

The curator, explained that the top news, my planet and portrait, Hero of our time, were further divided into two subcategories, which are single photo and photo series.

 

Meanwhile, in the sports and top view categories, only single photos are eligible.

 

He said the exhibitions were displayed since the inception to audiences in China, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, DR Congo, Türkiye, Lebanon, Germany, Spain, Italy, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Egypt and others.

 

He urged Photo professionals, between the age of 18 to 33, to submit their entries, via the contest’s website in Russian at http://stenincontest.ru, and in English, at https://stenincontest.com

 

He said that the submission window for the 2025 contest, remain open until Feb. 28.

 

“The 2025 contest prize fund will award RUB 125,000 for first place, RUB 100,000 for second, and RUB 75,000 for third in each category.

 

“The recipient of the contest’s highest honour, the Grand Prize, will receive RUB 700,000.

 

“Continuing the tradition of showcasing the winning photographs, the contest will once again embark on exhibition tours in both Russian and international cities in the coming year,” he added. (NAN) (nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Idowu Ariwodola/Ismail Abdulaziz

General News

Tinubu says global collaboration key to sustainable devt.

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured a global audience in the United Arab Emirates that Nigeria is ready to work with other nations to build a resilient, equitable and sustainable world for all.

Tinubu said this while speaking on the topic, “From Climate Imperatives into Economic Prosperity: Bridging Africa with the Global Energy Future”, on the second day of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

The President declared that no single nation could walk the road to sustainability alone, stressing that global interconnectedness demanded collective action, knowledge sharing and mutual support, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.

“The fight against climate change is not merely an environmental necessity but a global economic opportunity to reshape the trajectory of our continent and the global energy landscape.

“As leaders, stakeholders and citizens of our planet, we stand at a critical juncture in human history. To succeed, we must innovate, collaborate and act decisively as one global community,” he said.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, Tinubu assured the audience that the Nigerian government had developed actionable programmes in line with global expectations.

“We have embraced a vision of sustainability that aligns with global aspirations while addressing local realities.

“Our efforts are anchored on three pillars: Energy Transition, Climate Resilience, and Sustainable Development.

“My administration recognises the importance of reducing carbon emissions and a just transition to clean and renewable energy, promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth,” he said.

He added that Nigeria is developing infrastructure for the widespread use of Compressed Natural Gas and electric vehicles and harnessing the potential in solid minerals to support the green energy transition.

According to him, Nigeria is also implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance food security and lessen its destructive environmental impact.

These, he said, included the introduction of the National Clean Cooking Policy to promote clean energy, environmental and health benefits and socio-economic development in the African region.

Tinubu said the government was working with local communities to implement solutions to mitigate the adverse consequences of the country’s environmental challenges.

He said these challenges – deforestation, desertification, coastal erosion, flooding, and pollution – threatened the livelihoods of millions.

He called on partner countries to collaborate in mobilising resources to tackle these challenges and embrace innovation and technology.

“To promote a Green Economy in Africa, we must focus on integrating sustainable practices in all sectors of our economy.

“These investments are capital intensive and require international support from partner countries, including multinational organisations, development partners and individuals,” he said.

He said Nigeria became the first country in Africa to initiate funding of green projects through Sovereign Green Bond proceeds, the third issuance of which is in progress.

“We urge investors to partner with us in this regard. Our administration remains committed to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Nigeria.

“By partnering with global leaders and harnessing the power of technology, we are finding new and innovative ways to address our environmental challenges.

“We have arable agricultural lands for advanced technological farming, including a bright future for Artificial Intelligence,” Tinubu said.  (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

General News

FG ready for dry season rice cultivation, says Kyari

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By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Government has concluded plans for dry season rice farming in its phase two of support for farmers toward increased harvests and food security for Nigerians.

Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, said this while briefing State House correspondents on Tuesday.

He said the Federal Government would support no fewer than 400,000 farmers to cultivate 200,000 hectares.

“Rice cultivation in dry season takes place in irrigated areas in the whole country, 36 states plus FCT.

“We are starting end of this month and early February in the southern parts of the country where we have already identified clusters where irrigation farming will take place and southern part of north-central zone.

“That is because the rain starts early and we are going to start doing the dry season farming much ahead of what we used to do.

“So, the northern part from the middle part of north-central to the upper part of north-east and north-west will be sometime a month later in February,” said Kyari.

He said another intervention by his ministry to boost food security was provision of tractors.

“We have started receiving some of the tractors that have been procured since October 2024.

“The 2,000 tractors from Belarus have started arriving in Nigeria. We should start delivering them to Abuja, where we are going to assemble some of them that are CKDs.

“Very soon, as soon as we finish the delivery and assembling, we are going to launch the tractors for onward distribution to our respective farmers,” he said.

He added that the Federal Government last week signed a deal to procure 2,000 John Deere tractors at the cost of $70 million dollars through the Nigeria Agricultural Development Fund.

“No payment has been made so far on that one, but for the ones from Belarus, we have made an upfront payment 30 per cent,” said Kyari. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

General News

NSE wants young engineers embrace AI as critical skillset

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By Lydia Ngwakwe

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Lagos Branch, has urged young engineers to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a critical skillset.

 

The Chairman of NSE, Lagos Branch, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, gave the advice at the graduateship induction ceremony organised for the young engineers by the branch, on Monday.

 

The event was organised by the branch in conjunction with the Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event has the theme: “AI Revolution in Engineering Entrepreneurship and Nation Building”.

 

Kesha acknowledged the potential risks associated with the advancement of AI, particularly the concern that AI could displace human workers in various fields.

 

She, however, said that embracing AI was important.

 

She said: “You can’t stop the moving train.

 

“It is either you jump on or you are left behind. We are advising you to jump onto the moving train.”

 

Mr Dideolu Falobi, Managing Director, Krestal Laurel, corroborated Kesha’s point, urging engineers to equip themselves for the challenges of and opportunities in the technological landscape.

 

According to him, once engineers understand AI principles and the practical applications, they can use it to do whatever they want and excel.

 

He said: “The contemporary issue which will determine our very close future is AI, the AI revolution; that is, equipping machines to be able to function as human beings.

 

“It is being deployed in all industries.

 

“For any young engineer, the education of today is incomplete if you are not conversant with the basics of AI and how to deploy them in whatever you want to do.”

 

Mrs Margaret Oguntala, the President of NSE, expressed desire to see all the inductees to become full corporate members of the NSE in the next four years.

 

She was represented by Mr Ayo Ogunaike, a former Chairman, Lagos Branch of NSE.

 

She highlighted the numerous benefits of membership of the NSE.

 

Oguntala informed the inductees that the NSE had strong presence, with five branches in Lagos and a total of 86 branches worldwide.

 

She announced that the annual general meeting of the NSE would be held in Ibadan.

 

NAN reports that 504 graduates from different fields of engineering were inducted into NSE at the occasion.

 

Earlier, the inductees held a procession from UNILAG Faculty of Engineering to the Oyebolu Engineering Resource Centre at the Works and Physical Planning Department, where they took their induction oath. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

General News

Tinubu true champion of black race—Support Group

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By Salif Atojoko

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) says President Bola Tinubu’s speech at the inauguration of Ghana’s new President, John Mahama, shows he is a Pan-Africanist and true champion of the black race.

Mr Emeka Nwankpa, Chairman of TMSG, in a statement on Monday, said that the speech was the best testament to the continent’s capacity to reinvent itself and build on its potential.

“Looking back at Tinubu’s speech as a special guest at the inauguration of Ghana’s newly elected president, it was not surprising that he used the platform to showcase Africa’s resilience against its myriad of challenges.

“This is a line he had constantly pushed at all his international engagements aside from promoting Nigeria’s interests.”

Nwankpa quoted Tinubu as saying that Ghana’s successful election addressed the question of whether Ghana and other African countries were capable of democratic and productive endeavours.

He said that Tinubu’s message could not have been more appropriate at a time of a resurgent military adventurism in some countries of West Africa.

“Anyone aware of Tinubu’s antecedents as a pro-democracy activist will not be surprised by his reference to the long years of unbroken democracy in Ghana and Nigeria.

“We see this as a fitting response to Africa’s critics on the strides the continent has made in development of democracy.”

The chairman said Tinubu’s speech was another bold statement of Africa’s readiness to live up to its historical capacity to govern its people and build its economy.

“Also interesting to TMSG is Tinubu’s position that African countries should not allow external interests to escalate normal differences and disagreements that could be amicably resolved by sincere brotherly dialogue.

“This is a statesman-like message that is needed at a time Africa is locked down by a renewed scramble by global players and superpowers contending for influence in the continent,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

General News

TEXEM organises programme on innovation for organisations 

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By Hafsah Tilde

Abuja, Jan. 13, 2025(NAN) In today’s volatile world, where change is constant and uncertainty abounds, innovation and agility are indispensable for organisational survival.

Caroline Lucas, Director Special Projects, TEXEM Insights disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

She said TEXEM programme, Resilience in a Volatile World: Inspiring Transformation Successfully, was uniquely designed to help leaders integrate innovation into their leadership toolkit, enabling them to navigate complexity and foster organisational agility.

Lucas said the three-week programme, scheduled from Feb. 8 to 22, would be an immersive blend of virtual and live learning.

The programme provides leaders with an actionable roadmap to design resilient organisations capable of adapting to change while maintaining a competitive edge.

It begins with self-paced learning activities, where participants engage with videos, case studies, and reflection exercises on TEXEM’s interactive learning platform.

Points earned through these activities are displayed on a leaderboard, encouraging friendly competition and deeper engagement.

Weekly live sessions complement these activities, offering participants the opportunity to collaborate with globally recognised faculty, such as Ambassador Charles Crawford, Bradley Jones, and Dr. TB McClelland Jr.

Innovation takes centre stage in this programme. Leaders are challenged to rethink traditional business models and explore new ways of solving complex problems.

The live sessions provide actionable strategies for integrating innovation into daily leadership practices.

For instance, Ambassador Crawford’s expertise in communication helps leaders articulate a clear vision for change, fostering alignment and engagement across their teams.

His insights into influencing stakeholders empower participants to garner support for innovative initiatives, even in environments where resistance to change may be high.

Bradley Jones adds strategic depth to the programme by introducing decision-making frameworks that emphasise adaptability.

Participants learn how to assess risks and opportunities, enabling them to make informed decisions in uncertain contexts.

For example, Jones highlights how scenario planning can help organisations anticipate market shifts and adjust their strategies accordingly.

By equipping participants with these tools, the programme ensures leaders can navigate volatility with confidence.

Dr TB McClelland Jr. focuses on the cultural dimensions of innovation.

His sessions explore how leaders can create environments that encourage experimentation and risk-taking.

Participants examine real-world examples of organisations that have successfully embedded innovation into their cultures, identifying lessons that can be applied to their own contexts.

For instance, McClelland emphasises the importance of psychological safety in fostering creativity, showing leaders how to build trust and encourage diverse perspectives.

A hallmark of the TEXEM programme is its emphasis on actionable learning.

Participants engage in scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world challenges, such as managing high operational costs or navigating regulatory uncertainty.

These exercises encourage participants to apply the principles of innovation and agility to design effective solutions.

For instance, leaders might be tasked with developing a strategy to reduce costs without compromising product quality, using tools introduced during the programme.

The focus on agility is particularly timely in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Leaders are encouraged to adopt iterative approaches to strategy development, enabling them to respond swiftly to changing conditions.

By learning to pivot effectively, participants gain the confidence to make bold decisions that drive growth and resilience.

Stakeholder engagement is another critical theme of the programme.

Leaders gain tools to build coalitions and inspire their teams, ensuring that innovative strategies are supported at all levels of the organisation.

Ambassador Crawford’s sessions provide practical frameworks for influencing stakeholders, helping participants align diverse interests around a shared vision.

By the end of the programme, participants leave with a comprehensive understanding of how to embed innovation and agility into their leadership practices.

They gain actionable tools to drive change, optimise operations, and achieve sustainable growth.

More importantly, they develop the confidence to lead their organisations through uncertainty, ensuring long-term success.

Testimonials from the previous delegates underscore TEXEM’s successes:

“I found TEXEM UK to be a very impactful and high powered platform. I’ve learned so much from the faculty here, and I believe that TEXEM UK is redefining the future of executive training and management. In the past few days, we’ve learned so much about resilience, about how to push our teams even in an economic downturn, and how to manage for profitability and improve performance.” – Amina Yuguga, Journalist and Group Head for Documentaries and Features for Media Trust Group

“The programme was incredibly engaging, offering profound insights from exceptional facilitators. It brought together world-class professors, visionary founders, trailblazing innovators, and creative experts with unmatched expertise and rich experiences” – Niyi Toluwalope, Chief Executive Officer of eTranzact Group.

“A key takeaway for me is that fear is our greatest enemy, and conquering it empowers us to achieve anything. I also appreciated the opportunity to network with fellow participants from home that I hadn’t met before. Learning from Cadbury’s resilience and longevity in business was particularly inspiring, as it exemplifies how organizations can thrive despite disruptions. Thank you, TEXEM, for this enriching experience.” – Ann Iyonu, Executive Director, Goodluck Jonathan Foundation.

The TEXEM programme is more than a learning experience; it is a strategic investment in leadership excellence.

By focusing on innovation and agility, participants are equipped to turn challenges into opportunities and achieve transformational results.

For leaders ready to redefine their organisations’ futures, this programme offers the tools and insights to thrive in a volatile world.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

President Bola Tinubu
General News

Tinubu condoles with labour minister over mother’s death

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Friday extended condolences to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, on the death of his mother, Hajiya Hauwa’u Abubakar, at the age of 94.

The president, in a statement by his Spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja, said the death of the nonagenarian was a loss that extended beyond her immediate family to the community far and near.

Tinubu joined the Dingyadi family in mourning the late matriarch and condoled with the government and people of Sokoto State.

While praying for the repose of the deceased’s soul, he urged her family to preserve the good memories she left behind by continuing with her good deeds. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

 

General News

Tinubu to attend sustainability summit in Abu Dhabi

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Saturday, Jan. 11, to participate in the 2025 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2025).

Sheikh Mohamed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, invited President Tinubu to attend the Summit, which will take place in the emirate from Jan. 12 to 18, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said in a statement.

“The Summit will bring together global leaders to accelerate sustainable development and advance socioeconomic progress.

“The event, ‘The Nexus of Next; Supercharging Sustainable Progress,’ will enable policymakers, business, and civil society leaders to explore pathways to fast-track the transformation to a sustainable economy and evolve a new era of prosperity for all.

“ADSW, a testament to the power of collaboration, has been held annually for over 15 years,” said the statement.

It said the forum would provide a global platform to foster multi-stakeholder cooperation in addressing global challenges and accelerating growth.

“It has birthed high-value agreements and strategic partnerships between governments, industry leaders, and clean energy pioneers worldwide, driving impactful alliances and advancing the sustainability agenda worldwide.

“At the event, President Tinubu will stress his administration’s reforms, including those related to energy sufficiency, transportation, public health, and economic development,” continued the statement.

The President and his entourage will also meet with the emirate’s leadership to discuss issues of interest affecting the two nations.

Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other senior government officials will accompany the President, who is due back to Nigeria Jan. 16. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

General News

Presidency cautions Gov. Bala Mohammed on Tax Reform Bills

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By Salif Atojoko

The presidency on Friday cautioned Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State over his sustained criticism of the Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly.

Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President, Media and Public Communication, in a statement, said attempts to stampede or abort the tax Reform Bills must be regarded as undemocratic and self serving.

He said the President was clear that anyone or groups that felt strongly about the Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly should take advantage of the legislative process.

“The question to Governor Bala Mohammed by journalists is to know what he is doing to make life better for the people of Bauchi State.

“How well has he as Governor used the increased resources at his disposal to improve the quality of life of his people?

He urged the governor to face governance and stop using President Tinubu to burnish his image.

Dare said President Bola Tinubu’s administration was focused on issues of development and how to improve the overall well-being of Nigerians.

“The focus of this government is on how to build stronger collaborations with sub-nationals and other critical stakeholders on matters that affect the lives of Nigerians.

“President Tinubu won an election and secured a national mandate from Nigerians and he will not surrender that to satisfy the palate of some psuedo activists and later day crusaders.

“President Tinubu is a listening leader and also a leader that strongly believes in the institutions of state,” said Dare.

According to him, President Tinubu is focused on revamping the economy and working to turn the economic fortunes of the country around.

“He has a four-year mandate to deliver on his promises.

“Nigerians have started to see the real impact of reforms of the Tinubu administration and better outcomes will continue to manifest in the lives of the citizens in the weeks and months ahead.

“Governor Bala Mohammed should occupy himself with dealing with the many problems of his state. Ambition is made of sterner stuff,” said Dare. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

General News

Lagos school suspends teacher seen in video abusing toddler

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By Deborah Akpede

The Christ Mitots School in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has suspended a 45-year-old teacher, Stella Nwadigo, seen in a video abusing a three-year-old pupil for his inability to write numbers.

The school confirmed the suspension in a statement issued by its management on Thursday.

A two-minute video which went viral on Wednesday had shown the teacher slapping the toddler for not learning number writing fast.

The video attracted public condemnation, which led to the teacher’s arrest.

In the statement, the school condemned the teacher’s action, describing it as unacceptable.

“We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving a teacher engaging in physical discipline of a student in a manner that is completely unacceptable.

“As an institution that is deeply committed to fostering a culture of respect, care and dignity, we are horrified by this incident and wish to make it clear that such actions will not be tolerated.

“In response, the teacher involved has been suspended indefinitely, while a thorough investigation is being conducted,” it said.

The school said that its immediate and decisive action reflected its zero-tolerance for misconduct and its obligation to safeguard every child under its care.

“As such, we have an open door policy to provide students, parents and guardians with a safe space to voice any concerns without fear,” it said.

The school said it had apologised to the pupil and his family.

“We have reached out to them to express our regret.

“We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as we work to address this matter responsibly and comprehensively.

“We will be organising mandatory training sessions for teachers to reinforce child protection protocols, emphasise positive disciplinary practices, and cultivate greater sensitivity in interactions with students, ” it added.

According to the school, it has also introduced a whistle-blowing system to encourage prompt reporting of inappropriate behaviour. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng.)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Ijeoma Popoola

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