NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
UNICEF, Sokoto Govt. Launch Digital Skills Training Centre for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children
Education

UNICEF, Sokoto Govt. Launch Digital Skills Training Centre for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children

269 total views today

Education
By Habibu Harisu
The Sokoto State Government has on Tuesday inaugurated a digital skills training centre to empower Almajiri children and out-of-school adolescent girls in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative is in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and supported by ELEVA Foundation.

Gov. Ahmad Aliyu in his remarks during the inauguration said that the effort was a significant one to tackle educational disparity and promote digital inclusion among residents.

Aliyua also said that the initiative tagged ”Digital Village” was designed to equip underserved youths with essential digital skills, as well as prepare them for opportunities in an increasingly technology-driven world.

He expressed gratitude to UNICEF and ELEVA Foundation for its ongoing support, particularly in education and nutrition in the state.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable groups and ensuring inclusive development across the state.

Speaking at the event, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by the District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Jabi, lauded the governor’s administration for the visionary approach and development-focused leadership.

Abubakar reaffirmed the traditional institution’s unwavering support for the governor’s Smart Agenda, a comprehensive nine-point development plan.

UNICEF Nigeria Representative, Ms Cristian Munduate, described the Digital Village as a structured learning hub, offering training sessions three times a week.

”By equipping these underserved children with digital skills, we are building their capacity to thrive in a tech-driven world,” she said.

Munduate, who was represented by Micheal Juma, UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Sokoto, said the digital village was designed to improve access to quality learning opportunities by leveraging technological literacy and youth innovation trough structured training sessions.

She said the centre targets 250 children in first cohort, with local languages, foundation literacy, vocational, numeracy and livelihood skills tailored into the curriculum.

According to her, the village will serve as safe space for mentorship and life skills development toward boosting economic independence and social inclusion.

”It will also serve as pivotal move towards empowering vulnerable youth with essential digital and vocational skills,” she added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders as well as various leaders in the state who were present at the event pledged their commitments to the success of the centre. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deborah Coker

Don urges NUC to incorporate virtual space for varsity accreditation
Education

Don urges NUC to incorporate virtual space for varsity accreditation

283 total views today

Don
By Henry Oladele

Prof. Ibrahim Olateju of the Department of Management Technology, Lagos State University (LASU), has called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to incorporate virtual space as a criterion for programme accreditation in Nigerian universities.

He made this appeal during the 106th edition of the LASU inaugural lecture series held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, LASU, Ojo, on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lecture was themed: ‘Balancing Innovation and Stability in Project Quality Management: The Roles of Challengers and Defenders for Sustainable Development.’

Prof. Olateju emphasized that the NUC should integrate virtual space into the accreditation process for university programmes.

“The NUC should identify and integrate virtual spaces as one of the criteria for programme accreditation within our universities.

“This will ensure that institutions are equipped to offer and manage online and hybrid learning environments effectively,” he said.

He further stressed the importance of continuous quality appraisals throughout the training period across all disciplines.

“This approach ensures ongoing assessment and improvement, rather than relying solely on end-term evaluations.

“The practice of using a specified calendar for one-off examinations as the primary method of student appraisal should be discouraged.

“Instead, a more holistic assessment approach should be adopted and also revise the appraisal ratio,” he said.

Prof. Olateju recommended reversing the current 30/70 appraisal ratio in favor of continuous assessments, proposing a 70/30 split.

“This shift will provide a more accurate reflection of students’ abilities and consistent performance over time.

“Each university should establish an examination bank to serve as a repository for examination questions.

“This resource will support the standardisation and improvement of assessment practices across institutions,” he added.

He believes these recommendations will foster a more dynamic and accurate assessment system, ultimately enhancing educational quality and better preparing students for future challenges.

Speaking on the lecture theme, Prof. Olateju explained that quality management involves overseeing all activities and tasks required to maintain a desired level of excellence.

“This includes four key components: quality planning, quality assurance, quality control, and quality improvement.

“The goal of quality management is to ensure that an organisation, product, or service consistently meets specified specified standards, as well as customer and regulatory requirements,” he said.

He noted that quality management in Nigeria is evident in organisations that have adopted international standards to improve their operations.

“Research on quality management in Nigeria highlights the impact of various practices on organisational performance,” he said.

On project management, Prof. Olateju highlighted the significant role of smart technologies in enhancing sustainability.

“These technologies provide real-time data for decision making, decrease operational defaults, and have notable economic and environmental advantages.

“By integrating these roles within quality management frameworks, organisations can optimise processes, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance sustainability.

“This dual focus not only mitigates the cost of poor quality but also positions organisations as leaders in delivering value and fostering innovation.

“Ultimately, viewing quality as a strategic asset that drives sustainable growth and development helps align business practices with global goals,” he said.

He concluded that such organisations contribute meaningfully to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and secure long-term success. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Foundation trains media officers, filmmakers, content creators on educational impact
Entertainment

Foundation trains media officers, filmmakers, content creators on educational impact

307 total views today

By Veronica Dariya

World Changers Media International Foundation, an NGO, has trained more than 25 media officers and content creators on production of impactful educational stories and documentaries for humanity.

Dr Janice Collins, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, urged participants at the Abuja workshop to create narratives with lasting positive difference.

Collins, also the Director, Institute of International Journalism at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Ohio University, USA, advised content creators to ground their stories on truth and facts

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised in collaboration with the African International Documentary and Festival Foundation (AFIDFF), for filmmakers and producers.

She emphasised that storytelling should drive social responsibility, spark social change, and deepen audience connection with key social issues.

“We must be able to humanise our stories by bringing attention to an element that is affecting society in order to bring about a positive change.

“Do not forget to enforce your professional ethics and conduct as a journalist or storyteller; seek the truth and report it, minimise harm, be accountable and transparent,” Collins said.

She mentioned that with a creative strategy, business acumen, and diverse funding can generate sustainable income from storyteller and documentary production.

Her foundation, she noted, is committed to empowering media professionals to create positive change, amplify marginalised voices, and improve the lives of the most vulnerable.

She said that her team worked to support and creates platforms for voices and stories that need to be heard and be included in the global narrative.

In her remarks, the Director-General, AFIDFF, Mrs Malame Mangzha, told NAN that the workshop targeted public relations and media officers from partner organisations of the foundation.

She said: “We picked our participants from media departments of organisations we have been working in partnership with for the past few years.

“We deemed it fit and important to empower these officers and our new generation content creators, to create contents that could drive impact in communities and the society at large.

“While they could also be generating income in the process. However, our expectation at the end of the day is to see them tell their own stories with their own voices, in their own narratives.”

Mangzha also said that the two-day interactive workshop was designed to equip participants with practical skills in creative storytelling and production.

She added that it would include hands-on training, collaborative exercises, and real-time feedback to help participants’ crafts and expand their creative vision.

NAN reports that participants at the workshop included personnel from various organisation such as the National Commission for Museums and Monument, National Troupe of Nigeria, National Park Services.

Also present at the event are, National Film and Video Censor Board, social media content producers among others. (NAN)
Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Halima Sheji

Experts task organisations on strong ethics, whistleblowing policy
General News

Experts task organisations on strong ethics, whistleblowing policy

217 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Adebola Adegoke

 

 

 

Ethics and compliance experts have called on corporate organisations to build strong ethical systems and establish robust whistleblowing frameworks to ensure long-term profitability and sustainability.

 

 

 

They made the call on Tuesday during a webinar organised by Kaizen Academy, with the theme: “Overcoming Ethical Dilemmas in Corporate Decision Making”.

 

Kaizen Academy is a consulting firm that provides corporate strategy, compliance and governance advisory services.

 

Ms Gbemi Yusuff, Associate Vice President, Ethics and Compliance, NMC Healthcare, said that ethical responsibility should not rest solely with leadership but must permeate all levels of the organisation.

 

 

 

Yusuff noted that ethical leadership, institutional accountability, and a culture that encouraged reporting of wrongdoing were crucial for organisations to thrive in today’s competitive and regulated business environment.

 

 

 

“Companies often proclaim integrity and accountability in their public declarations, but it is the lived experience within the organisation that truly defines the culture.

 

 

 

“Corporate culture is the invisible hand that guides decisions when no one is watching.

 

 

 

“Everyone who has any level of responsibility is a leader in some way and must act in alignment with the organisation’s ethical values.

 

 

 

“In moments of ethical tension, it is culture that determines whether people act rightly even without direct supervision.”

 

 

 

She called for ethics to be integrated into long-term corporate strategy, with clear and measurable key performance indicators to reward integrity alongside results.

 

 

 

“Ethics is not a burden or an obstacle, it is the foundation for sustainable profitability and trust,” she said.

 

 

 

Mr Ayobami Adisa, Director, Data Governance and Compliance at IHS Towers, emphasised the critical role of whistleblowing in detecting corporate misconduct early and preserving business health.

 

 

 

Adisa urged organisations to create a safe environment for reporting misconduct that include timely investigations, communicating outcomes, and conducting post-investigation anti-retaliation check-ins with whistleblowers.

 

 

 

He stressed that companies must not only put in place whistleblowing and non-retaliation policies but also implement them rigorously.

 

 

 

“Whistleblowing is a tested feedback mechanism. If taken seriously, it helps organisations detect wrongdoings before they become disastrous.

 

 

 

“Having a whistleblowing policy is like cuffing yourself as an organisation. It means you’ve made yourself vulnerable and committed to protecting the whistleblower,” he added.

 

 

 

He said global best practices had shown that companies face severe penalties for ignoring whistleblower protection.

 

 

 

According to the expert, a growing number of organisations now incentivise whistleblowing by compensating employees who report financial misconduct or other violations that save the company from loss.

 

 

 

“Some even reward whistleblowers with a fraction of the funds recovered. It’s a trend we’re beginning to see, and it’s working,” he said.

 

 

 

Also, Mr Akinpelu Akinola, Group Head, Ethics and Governance at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, noted that beyond policies, corporate governance play a vital role in preventing ethical failures.

 

 

 

According to him, building a transparent, accountable system not only upholds integrity but is also good for business.

 

 

 

He urged companies to anchor business decisions on their core values to avoid crossing unethical lines.

 

 

 

“Corporate governance is the framework of accountability. It is how organisations design systems to check power, ensure transparency, and allow ethical concerns to be addressed quickly and impartially.

 

 

 

“As a corporate leader, you must build transparent systems that compels every staff to do the right thing because ethical decisions drives profitable sustainability,” Akinola said. (NAN)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

FCTA approves contracts for access roads in Durumi, Mabushi,, others  
Metro

FCTA approves contracts for access roads in Durumi, Mabushi,, others  

242 total views today
By Philip Yatai
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee has approved the award of contract for the construction of access roads in Durumi and Mabushi Districts and other infrastructural projects.

Mr Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday, while briefing journalists after the 14th committee’s meeting, chaired by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

Dauda said that a contract was approved for the construction of access roads in Durumi District.

He explained that the contract would involve the construction of several access roads, drainages and culverts totalling about 1.7-kilometres in Durumi, around the Apostolic Church.

He added that the committee also approved the provision of access roads and infrastructure to parts of Mabushi District, particularly the Kez Udezue street, and other roads in the area.

He said that the scope of that project involves the provision of access roads, underground drainage services, street lighting, and other facilities like water and sewage collectors.

Also approved, according to the acting FCDA boss, is an emergency contract for erosion control affecting water pipelines.

He explained that the erosion affected a major water pipeline from Lower Usuma Dam through Kubwa to Airport Road and down to Gwagwalada.

“Erosion had taken place on the major pipeline feeding the various tanks up to Gwagwalada and it was a threat to the major water supply to all these areas.

“So, a Chinese company, CGC Nigeria Ltd. was invited to carry out the emergency work on the sites and the approval at the committee’s meeting was to finalise the emergency repair,” he said.

Dauda also said that the committee equally approved the award of contract for the complete renovation, furnishing and technical installations at the Department of State Security Headquarters.

“Another memo was for the construction of one block of a Magistrate Court in Jabi,” he said.

Earlier, the Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Mr Chidi Amadi, explained that 13 memos were submitted for consideration, out of which nine were examined and approved.

Amadi added that the nine memos were approved to deepen the infrastructural development and upgrade of the capital city and its environment. (NAN)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Commission urges NASS on adequate funding of culture, creative sector
Culture & Tourism

Commission urges NASS on adequate funding of culture, creative sector

311 total views today

 

By Joshua Olomu

 

Mr Olugbile Holloway, Director-General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), has urged the National Assembly (NASS) to ensure improved funding for the culture and creative sector.

 

Holloway made the call at an event organised by the commission to celebrate the 2025 International Museum Day (IMD) at the Chinese Cultural Centre on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

He said this would enable the sector contribute more to national economic growth.

 

According to him, as Nigeria seeks to diversify its revenue mainstay from oil, the culture and creative sector presents itself as a veritable option, if adequate attention was given to it.

 

He said President Bola Tinubu saw the sector as a viable source to significantly grow the economy and cause a paradigm shift from dependence on oil, and gave it a stand-alone ministry.

 

The NCMM helmsman, however, noted that adequate funding was needed to reposition the sector and harness the vast opportunities it offers for job creation, tourism growth and increased contribution to GDP.

 

He therefore urged the NASS, especially its committees on the sector, to prioritise its funding to boost the sector’s expansion for job creation and economic growth.

 

The NCMM helmsman added that the commission was presently working towards revamping museums across the country.

 

He however added that because of the huge funding required for the projects, the commission was seeking public-private partnerships for the projects.

 

“The sector has vast opportunities to turn-around our economy, and our Museums as critical cultural assets need adequate funding.

 

“At the NCMM, we have competent officers and workforce who only needed to be given the necessary support.

 

“I am using this opportunity to appeal to the National Assembly to pay more attention to this sector and allocate more funds.

 

“For the museum and heritage sector to thrive and remain relevant in today’s dynamic environment there must be significant investment.

 

“In line with the theme of the day, the commission is embracing technology and new media as strategic tools for cultural promotion”, he said.

 

According to him, the nation has rich cultural and historic heritages, as well as artifacts which need to be showcased to the world to make Nigeria a choice tourist destination.

 

He said that museum space is a very good opportunity to boost tourism by showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage because people all over the world are very interested in Nigerian culture.

 

The DG said the commission was utilising digital platforms to showcase collections of heritage stories, including the creative use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on public billboards across major Nigerian cities, particularly in Lagos.

 

In his speech,Gabriel Zock, Chairman House Committee on Culture and Tourism, lauded NCMM for championing reforms in the culture and tourism sectors.

 

The member representing Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency said the nation’s culture and tourism sector has suffered neglect over the years, and needed major reforms to add meaningfully to national economy.

 

“The reason why we are here today is to celebrate culture, and to celebrate what God has blessed us with, and it shows that culture is very important.

 

It is amazing that today when we travel to the rest of the world, the first thing we want to do is to visit their cultural heritage, and we must showcase our own

 

“As a committee, we are drawing a plan on how to work with the agencies and support them to have good funding.

 

“I have promises the NCMM and other agencies under my watch that whatever they need to succeed , we the committee members will make sure we get it done.

 

“We will work with the budget office, the Ministry of Finance, and with other appropriations offices to make sure that this agencies get what they need”, he said.

 

Earlier in her keynote address, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, said the ministry was committed to revamping museums across the country

 

The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mukhtar Muhammad, said preserving and promoting Nigerian’s rich cultural heritage to the world was a priority of the ministry.

 

“As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, it will interest us to know that museums are poised to play pivotal roles in shaping our collective future.

 

“In an era marked by technological advancements, cultural, demographic shifts, and societal evolution, museums must adapt to remain relevant and impactful.

 

“Museums should also come in handy in addressing pressing global issues such as climate change, social justice, and cultural heritage preservation, and also foster community partnerships collaborations, and co-creation.

 

“Using them as platforms for marginalised voices, promoting empathy, understanding, preserving and showcasing our cultural heritage should be born in our minds while also addressing contemporary challenges.

 

“It is imperative to note that as the world is rapidly revolving, so is our museum, therefore, museums should not be seen as static walls, but about open doors, not about holding ons; but about reaching out to diverse communities”, she said.

 

NAN reports that International Museum Day, coordinated by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), is held annually on May 18.

 

It provides the opportunity for museum professionals to meet the public and alert them as to the challenges that museums face, and raise public awareness on the role museums play in the development of society.

 

It also promotes dialogue between museum professionals and highlights a specific theme which changes every year reflecting a relevant theme or issue facing museums internationally.

 

“This year’s theme is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities”.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Don seeks research commercialisation, technology transfer
Education

Don seeks research commercialisation, technology transfer

225 total views today

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

A former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Mbang Femi-Oyewo, has urged research commercialisation and technology transfer to bridge gaps between academia and industry.

 

Femi-Oyewo made this call during Trinity University’s sixth Founder’s Day lecture, with the theme ‘Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring the Future’, held on Tuesday in Yaba, Lagos.

 

She emphasised the importance of infrastructure and technological advancement, urging universities to embrace digital transformation and form partnerships with technology-driven organisations.

 

“Implement Learning Management Systems to support online learning. Develop mobile apps for students to access materials, submit assignments, and interact with faculty effectively,” she said.

 

She further highlighted the need for modern facilities, research laboratories, and digital platforms, alongside training to help staff integrate technology and leadership principles into teaching.

 

Femi-Oyewo, a Trinity University Governing Council member, encouraged the institution to adopt innovative, technology-driven solutions to address challenges in contemporary university education.

 

She stressed that embracing the evolving higher education landscape is key to ensuring Total Quality Assurance and maintaining Trinity University’s academic brand.

 

In her remarks, UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, urged institutions to generate relevant knowledge contributing meaningfully to national growth and development.

 

Ogunsola, who chaired the event, described research as a problem-solving mindset central to the university’s role, beyond just teaching responsibilities.

 

“Universities must generate contextual knowledge that helps solve real problems. We must teach, research, and engage with communities to stay relevant.

 

“By tackling real-world challenges, students learn and conduct meaningful research. Our purpose is to address society’s issues through practical inquiry.

 

“Research must serve communities—moving from ‘town to gown’. We must study real problems and develop practical, impactful solutions,” she said.

 

Ogunsola added that by urging TU to fulfil its mission as it enters its seventh year, using knowledge to advance Nigeria through technology and innovation.

 

Prof Clement Kolawole, TU Vice-Chancellor, expressed delight at the institution’s progress and appreciated Ogunsola’s support and guidance.

 

“In six years, we grew from 60 students and five staff to 1,800 students and around 130 staff members. We are grateful,” he said.

 

He noted that 18 academic programmes are now fully accredited by the National Universities Commission and relevant professional bodies, including Nursing and Medical Laboratory Councils.

 

Kolawole reaffirmed TU’s commitment to producing graduates of strong character, practical skills, and readiness to make positive change wherever they go.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured student performances, a choir, and orchestra presentations, among other engaging side attractions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Remi Koleoso / Kamal Tayo Oropo

NSF: 9,040 athletes, officials accredited for Gateway Games —- Olopade
Sports

NSF: 9,040 athletes, officials accredited for Gateway Games —- Olopade

229 total views today

By Peter Amine

The Director-General (DG), National Sports Commission ( NSC), Bukola Olopade, says that a total of 9,040 athletes and officials have been accredited for the ongoing National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun.

Olopade made the disclosure on Tuesday in Abeokuta while addressing  newsmen on the commission’s efforts to ensure a successful festival.

The DG said that the accredited athletes and officials were accommodated at Babcock University.

He described the participation of the states in the games as impressive.

Olopade said that the quality of games had improved compared to  previous editions.

“In the last 20 years, this is the festival that athletes will get to their hostel and get their food.

“With joy and pride, things are going on well with the hostel and feeding.

“I just returned from Sagamu and Babcock; the standard of play is very high. Kaduna vs Niger basketball was top-notch.

“Visit the centres to enjoy this festival; Niger vs Kano in handball was superb too.

“I saw three London-based boxers representing Kaduna, and this has demonstrated impressive improvement from other editions,” he said.

Olopade, who is the Chairman of Local Organising Committee( LOC),  commended the Ogun Government for its efforts towards hosting the best biennial sports  festival.

According to him, the opening ceremony was applauded globally. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Creative hubs collaborate to nurture young talents
Culture & Tourism

Creative hubs collaborate to nurture young talents

251 total views today

By Joshua Olomu

A cross section of Nigerian Tech creative hubs have formed a collaboration towards creating platforms for nurturing and job creation for teeming youths.

The coalition tagged MSwitch Group was inaugurated on Tuesday in Abuja.

Mr Kadir Salami, the group’s chairman, said the collaboration became imperative to help harness the potential inherent in the country’s creative and tech sectors.

He said the coalition would equip young Nigerians with the necessary tools and an enabling environment to thrive and contribute their quota national economic growth.

According to him, the group consists of MSwitch Media, Techspecialist, Tiidelab, and MSwitch Creative Hub.

He said the group was focused on helping talented Nigerians and businesses tell their stories better and gain visibility through strategic media, storytelling, and content production.

He added that the group would address challenges facing the sector such as low business visibility, limited access to media platforms, IT Support services and expert guidance.

“MSwitch Grroup is a multidisciplinary group designed to build safe spaces, drive innovation, and enhance sustainable impact across Africa’s digital and creative landscapes.

“As tech creative hubs, we are creating a unified ecosystem to support the country’s creative and tech business sectors in fueling innovation, and bridge the gap between inspiration and execution across Africa.

“To e ensure it realises its objectives, the group has inaugurated a board, comprising a diverse team of leaders across media, technology, and entrepreneurship.

“This is aimed at driving strategic growth and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of Africa’s digital and creative economy”, he said.

Salami underscored the importance of providing young Nigerians with access to meaningful opportunities, adding that the country has abundance of young talent, but the challenge has always been access to opportunities.

He said MSwitch Group was committed to nurturing creative talents and ideas and empowering them with relevant skills and knowledge.(NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Economic inclusion: FG pledges to support NIPR
General News

Economic inclusion: FG pledges to support NIPR

221 total views today

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has pledged the readiness of the Federal Government to support the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in mobilising citizens for sustainable economic inclusion.

Idris stated this at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW 2025) and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Uyo.

The event with the theme, “Harnessing Public Relations for Nigeria’s Economic Renaissance,” was organised by NIPR.

According to Idris, the role of NIPR is not only foundational but indispensable.

“I wish to commend your recent efforts in pushing for ethical reforms, media literacy and capacity development.

“We in government are ready to support your initiatives as we collectively mobilise Nigerians for sustainable economic inclusion and productivity.

“Our role as stewards of the national narrative is crucial to how Nigeria is perceived, how policies are understood, and how citizens are engaged in our collective pursuit of economic prosperity as Nigeria rises again,” Idris said.

He further said Nigeria had attracted over $50 billion in new foreign direct investment commitments, adding that, Diaspora remittances reached $21.9 billion, showing deep trust in the nation’s future.

He also noted that the country’s entertainment and creative industries, particularly Nollywood, contributed over ₦730 billion to GDP.

“These are not just statistics, they are stories waiting to be told effectively, professionally and patriotically.

“There is encouraging news from the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April 2025 recently released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

“It indicated that the headline inflation rate for April stood at 23.71 per cent, representing a decrease of 0.52 per cent from the 24.23 per cent recorded in March 2025,” he said.

” Similarly, month-on-month, inflation dropped by a notable 2.04 per cent, from 3.90 per cent in March to 1.86 per cent in April.

“This could only have happened because Mr President’s deliberate policy interventions, gradually being made manifest, are well nurtured and paying off.

“As thought leaders and most viable of all our national assets, the NIPR must rise to this challenge.

“At the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, we have taken this challenge with a huge sense of responsibility, particularly in the conception of the National Strategic Communication Framework (NSCF),” Idris said.

He said through this blueprint, the ministry would ensure coherence across public sector messaging, align national campaigns with public sentiment and development goals and engage the Nigerian citizen in two-way communication.

He added that it would be part of the ministry’s mission to make public communication a tool for economic growth, social cohesion and national pride. (NAN)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

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