NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
NDPC, others explore adaptive sandboxes for AI integration, data protection
Science & Tech

NDPC, others explore adaptive sandboxes for AI integration, data protection

257 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has collaborated with some private ICT firms to explore adaptive sandboxes to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration and enhance data protection.

This was disclosed at a one-day workshop on Co-Creation Lab on Africa Sandboxes for AI and the evaluation of African Sandbox Outlook report in Abuja.

The workshop, hosted by Kontemporary Konsulting, an ICT firm, in collaboration with NDPC and Datasphere Initiative, a global data company, targeted exploring how regulatory sandboxes could support AI adoption and enable data-driven innovation across borders.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner, NDPC, said they were already exploring ways to adopt sandboxes in their mandate of data protection privacy according to the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

Represented by Ms Adaobi Nwankwo, Head of Innovation Unit, Olatunji said that regulatory sandboxes would foster safe and well-regulated ecosystems for AI development.

He also said that establishing a regulatory sandbox to test data-driven solutions would require real-time regulatory frameworks.

“Sandboxes aim to encourage responsible AI, foster compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, promote trust, fairness, accountability and transparency.

“The goal is to create a competitive environment for AI developers and data scientists, ensuring AI systems are unbiased and trustworthy as well as addressing Africa’s unique challenges,” he said.

Dr Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, said that they recognised the transformative potential of AI in reshaping the digital economy, improving service delivery, enhancing network optimisation and addressing complex socio-economic challenges.

Represented by Mr Babagana Digima, Deputy Director, New Media and Information Security, Maida said they were also mindful of the regulatory and ethical questions AI presented, which involved privacy, data protection, accountability among other factors.

“The concept of regulatory sandboxes has emerged as a promising approach to foster innovation while safeguarding the public interest.

“Sandboxes offer a controlled environment for innovators to test emerging technologies like AI under regulatory supervision, thus enabling collaborative learning, risk mitigation, and evidence-based policymaking.

“As a regulator of the communications sector, the NCC is actively exploring adaptive regulatory models, including sandbox frameworks.

“The frameworks will not only support AI integration but also align with national priorities such as the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, and the Nigeria Data Protection Act,” he said.

Similarly, Dr Jimson Olufuye, Principal Consultant of Kontemporary Konsulting said that there were lots of cross-border data flows which required easy movement and well embedded AI systems.

“There is a need for cross-border data sharing and data interoperability, we need to develop products for AI like the sandbox which will help ensure better management of products.

“We need to optimise our data protection processes and encourage cross-border data exchange and easy scaling of products across West Africa and beyond,” Olufuye said.

He noted that there were different AI, data protection laws across Africa and institutions, hence the need for regulators to collaborate and harmonise regulatory frameworks for better data governance.

Ms Morine Amutorine, Datasphere Initiative Lead in Africa, noted that sandboxes could operate effectively in countries with existing regulations, developing and those without AI regulations.

“A sandbox, in that case, will be a space where organisations, countries are able to look at AI and data-driven solutions, and then see which areas of their operations they need to regulate.

“Sandboxes facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, academia, and civil society, to inform regulatory frameworks,” she said.

According to the African Sandbox Outlook report, sandboxes across tech sector were emerging as useful tools for testing regulatory and technical innovations capable of tackling the complex challenges presented by data and artificial intelligence (AI).

The report also said that sandboxes’ potential was being explored in Africa to support data governance innovation and data value creation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event held as a follow-up event to the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) conference by NDPC, which held from May 6 to 8. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

NGA reiterates commitment to foster artistic cultural heritage
Entertainment

NGA reiterates commitment to foster artistic cultural heritage

236 total views today

By Joy Obanya

Mr Ahmed Sodangi, the Director-General, National Gallery of Arts (NGA), has reiterated the organisation’s commitment to fostering the cultural patrimony of art in advancing national growth.

The Director-General made this known at the opening of the 3rd Abuja International Art Fair, with its theme ‘Intersection of Treasures’, in Abuja.

Sodangi said that the organisation is yearning for results that will impact on the national economy at large.

“The National Gallery of Art is relentless in working with stakeholders to move the art industry forward.

“For instance, our efforts towards getting an amendment of the Establishment Act, will transform NGA into a revenue generating agency.

“Being a generating agency, will ultimately propel the Nigerian visual arts sector, with attendant benefits to all stakeholders,” Sodangi said.

He also said that the agency is partnering with indigenous and foreign artists to ease collaboration of artists from across the globe.

“In this edition of the International Art Fair, the NGA is partnering with indigenous and foreign artists, hereby facilitating the collaboration of professionals from different continents of the world.

“This synergy can only produce an entrepreneurial package that will be the delight of art connoisseurs.

“The result is what we are all witnessing today,” he added.

Also speaking, Mr Mohammed Sulaiman, National President, Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), restated that efforts are in place to reenact the NGA Establishment Act.

“Efforts are currently being made to reveal and reenact the NGA Establishment Act, and my commitment as the President of the Nigerian Artist, I will ensure that these plans come to fruition.

“In order for NGA to take its pride of place amongst the leading revenue generating parastatals in the visual arts sector sub section.

“This is what is earning so much money for the United States, and other foreign countries. Therefore, revenue generating should be a priority for every one of us,” he said.

He also applauded the NGA for working towards achieving the mandate of the organisation.

“I applaud the NGA for working towards achieving the holistic area where it attaches Nigerian artists and the international artists to ensure that it is a continuous process.

“What this means is that Nigeria will be Africa’s art friendliest country, and that is where the Nigerian artist wants to take it to,” Sulaiman said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 3rd Edition of the International Art Fair is scheduled to celebrate the Nigerian art and artists. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

NAPTIP takes war against human trafficking to Edo school
Education

NAPTIP takes war against human trafficking to Edo school

217 total views today

By Usman Aliyu

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has inaugurated its first Anti-Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons (A.TIPVAP) Vanguard Club at Egor Secondary School.

The inauguration, done in collaboration with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), is meant to take the fight against human trafficking directly to the youth.

The initiative, which is part of the Schools Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP), is supported by the Kingdom of Netherlands.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr Sam Offiah, Zonal Commander, NAPTIP, Benin Zonal Command, said the vanguard club was designed to empower students with knowledge about the tricks and antics deployed by traffickers to lure young people into slavery.

“The aim is to make these students not just aware but also ambassadors, who will educate their peers and families on the dangers of trafficking,” Offiah said.

According to him, human traffickers are adapting to modern technology, shifting their recruitment tactics online where unsuspecting youths are baited with fake job offers, scholarships, or international travel opportunities.

“Online trafficking is on the rise. Traffickers now hide in the dark web, making it harder to trace them.

“But through peer education, we can begin to dismantle their operations from the grassroots,” he said.

In his opening remark, Elvis Ederibhalo, the Edo Coordinator for STEAP under ICMPD, said that the project, which was funded by the Netherlands and running in five pilot states of Edo, Delta, Enugu, Ogun, and the FCT, was built on community empowerment.

“Traffickers are not your friends. They promise heaven and deliver hell.

“What they sell is modern slavery, and no young person should fall victim,” he warned.

Ederibhalo shared a recent example where more than 100 Nigerian girls were repatriated from Côte d’Ivoire under harrowing conditions.

“These girls were lied to, trafficked, and used. Today, they are back in Nigeria, broken and sick. We must stop this from happening to others,” he said.

Similarly, Dr Onaifo Osemwengie, the principal of Egor Secondary School, described the timing of the initiative as crucial.

“There’s no better time than now to address trafficking.

“Our students are the prime targets, and this enlightenment campaign is a lifeline for many of them,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured a drama presentation exposing inherent dangers of trafficking in persons by the students of the school.

In his inaugural address, Nelson Eghaghe, President of the club, said the club would serve as a platform for peer-education, where members would organise discussions, drama and awareness campaigns to sensitise their school mates and families about the social ill. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Ooni, Soyinka commend President Tinubu for promoting Nigeria’s culture globally
Culture & Tourism

Ooni, Soyinka commend President Tinubu for promoting Nigeria’s culture globally

243 total views today

By Joan Odafe

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s growing recognition of culture as a vital pillar of national identity, unity and international diplomacy.

A statement signed by the Media Assistant to the Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Mr Caleb Nor, quoted the traditional ruler as giving the commendation during a media conference organised by NICO to herald the upcoming World Orisha Congress (WOOCON).

The Ooni, who is also the Global Patron of WOOCON, said that President Tinubu was creating a culturally-friendly environment, and giving formal recognition to traditional heritage and spiritual institutions across the nation.

“We are grateful that this administration is giving rightful recognition to our culture.

“Culture is the soul of a people. Without it we have no identity.

“President Tinubu’s leadership is not only helping to reposition our cultural values on the global stage but bring us back to the very essence of our existence,” he said.

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka also praised Tinubu for encouraging and supporting the initiative, adding that it was a step to greatness and global boost in tourism revenue and relevance nationalities.

Soyinka, who is a Patron of WOOCON, said culture defined people and nationalities, and intellectual and spiritual engagement were important in reviving the African culture.

Earlier, the Brazilian Consular in Lagos, Ambassador Manuel de Lacerda Santos, highlighted the spiritual connections between Brazil and Nigeria, particularly through the shared Yoruba heritage that continues to thrive across both nations.

Also, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NICO, Mr Abiodun Ajiboye, emphasised the global cultural renaissance currently taking place and the crucial role Nigeria must play in the unfolding narrative.

Ajiboye, who is the Secretary of the WOOCON Board of Trustees, said the initiative is going to be one of the global cultural festivals that will reposition Nigeria as a major tourism destination in the world.

He added that by exploring new opportunities in cultural and spiritual tourism, it could generate over $10 billion annually for Nigeria in the next three years, if well planned.

“WOOCON is not just a congress. It’s a movement to reclaim and redefine African cultural consciousness and identity.

“Nigeria’s decision to collaborate with Brazil in the area of culture, tradition and heritage is informed by the deep historical and cultural connections that exist between the two nations.

“These cultural similarities are specifically profound and undeniable in the area of Yoruba heritage where thousands of Brazilians have over the years visited Nigeria to participate in major cultural and religious festivals such as Osun Oshogbo Festival and Sango Festival, to mention a few.

“These interactions reaffirm the strong ancestral ties between our people and highlight the need for structured engagements that will solidify these bonds,” he said.

Ajiboye noted that other countries in the Caribbeans were also part of the initiative.

A renowned Yoruba scholar, Prof. Wande Abimbola, said the Orisha tradition was a global spiritual system that must be preserved and respected across continents.

NAN reports that WOOCON’s full programme of cultural and intellectual engagements is expected to continue in the months ahead, with Nigeria positioned at the heart of the global movement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Alfa Designs to deploy CNG cascades to spur availability
Economy/Business

Alfa Designs to deploy CNG cascades to spur availability

179 total views today

By Emmanuella Anokam
Alfa Designs Nigeria Ltd., a leading oil and gas company, says it is set to deploy Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cascade to proximity areas to spur its availability in the country.

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr Quadri Fatai, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

CNG cascade is a system of interconnected, high-pressure gas cylinders used for storing and transporting CNG.

It is essentially a series of cylinders arranged in a way that allows for efficient storage and dispensing of CNG.

NAN reports that motorists have raised concern and complained bitterly about the unavailability of CNG and constant queues at refilling stations in the country.

Speaking with NAN, Fatai said the company was working out modalities to ensure that issues responsible for CNG unavailability were adequately addressed, adding that the proximity of having CNG around should be considered.

The expert said it had procured the first batch of 10 CNG cascades, which would be deployed soon after certification.

He said it was currently engaging the Standards Organisation of Nigeria third party inspection company for inspection, certification and licence issuance for the cylinders.

In order to ease distribution to different areas of proximity, he said it would also deploy a 100 per cent CNG-powered truck with a self-loader for distribution/dispensation of CNG.

“We are deploying about 450kg capacity CNG cascade (a storage facility) at designated places, which will allow CNG to be filled and stored in it with total weight at three tonnes.

“We are also coming with 100 per cent CNG-powered truck vehicle with self loader for distribution and dispensation.

“The idea is for the cascade to be filled and deployed at various fuel refilling partners’ outlets, where motorists can access to refill their vehicles.

“Once the inspection and certification of the cylinders are completed, the next thing is to ship them to Nigeria and do clearing,’’ he added.

He described logistics and limited infrastructure as the major factors behind unavailability of CNG, adding that the logistics involved in handling CNG projects are quite a lot.

“In order for you to understand the fundamental principle of these factors, I will need to quickly make a simple narrative between Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and the CNG.

“It is easier to deploy LPG than to deploy CNG, because the LPG operates at almost 35 bar pressure, while CNG is operating between 200 to 300 bar.

“The pressure is the function of the thickness or weight of the material. So, what it means is that the LPG cylinder will always be lighter in weight compared to the weight of the CNG cylinder,” he said.

The expert said that the company was coming up with a lot of package and initiatives to ease or solve the logistic issues to enable availability of CNG in the country.

He said to ease CNG deployment across the country, necessary logistics should be provided to handle the weight of the CNG and bring it in a compatible shape.

He further underscored the need to encourage companies that would like to build mother station infrastructure, to gradually extend the pipeline network of gas distribution.

He said concern had been raised on the safety, economic benefits and global regulations and compliance of CNG conversion, including factors bothering its logistics and usage.

According to him, to foster safety, the Nigeria Institute of Standards and SON are supposed to be checking continuously the integrity of the LPG and CNG cylinders.

He decried the fact that because of the price associated with CNG kits and cylinders, quacks are already locally fabricating the cylinders, toying with explosive things.

“The destructive power of a four bar gas cylinder is almost equivalent to one grenade (an explosive military weapon),’’ he warned.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

ITF certification: NTF boss commends Nigeria’s feat
Sports

ITF certification: NTF boss commends Nigeria’s feat

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By Victor Okoye

Ifedayo Akindoju, the President, Nigeria Tennis Federation, has felicitated with three Nigerian tennis referees, following their certification by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) as White Badge Referees.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the trio of Joseph Edili, Bitrus Danjuma, and Folashade Ogunshola achieved the feat on April 27 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire

Akindoju gave the commendation during a reception/dinner organised by the NTF in their honour on Monday night in Abuja.

He commended the referees for making the federation and the country so proud, noting that what they had achieved was no mean feat.

“Let me use this opportunity to congratulate you all for returning successfully with the seal of approval from the ITF as the significance of your achievements can not be overemphasised.

“I know how tough the journey was to obtaining the White Badge certification. You underwent rigorous training and evaluation, showcasing your knowledge and skills in tennis officiating.

“This certification now enables you to officiate at higher-level tournaments, including ITF World Tennis Tour events,” he said.

The president stressed that their achievements would have a positive impact on Nigerian tennis, adding that it would enhance officiating standards, promote tennis development as well as inspire young officials in the country.

“The certification of Nigerian referees will improve the quality of officiating in local and international tournaments held in Nigeria.

“By having certified referees, Nigeria can attract more international tennis events, promoting the growth of tennis in the country.

“The achievement of these referees will motivate young officials in Nigeria to pursue certification, further developing the sport,” he said.

He said that the Federation was committed to promoting and encouraging more referees to pursue their goals and reach the pinnacle of their career.

He added that NTF’s recognition of the referees’ achievements demonstrates its commitment to promoting tennis development and excellence in Nigeria.

Efe Okwagbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA), thanked the NTF president for honouring the referees, adding that it was a gesture the association would not take for granted.

“I want to sincerely thank our president for always finding time to share in our joy and challenges.

“We are not taking it for granted, and we appreciate your dedication to the growth and development of our referees in the country,” he said.

He also appealed to the president to extend the working days of the referees during tournaments and also engage the services of the newly certified ITF referees for upcoming international tournaments in the country.

“Over the years, I have noticed that the days the referees work during tournaments are the same with the chair Umpires.

“I think there is a need to take it a step further because they usually come one or two days ahead of time and stay even beyond the closing date of the event, as they still need to do alot of work with the ITF.

“So, I am making a formal appeal to the NTF president that when we present a request for two additional days for the referees, it should be graciously granted.

“Secondly, over the years, we invite foreign referees to Nigeria, and we have a couple of events just around the corner.

“I suggest that if possible, we can use our newly certified ITF referees for the next J30 event coming up in June,” he said.

He also thanked Edmund Ajoge, the Managing Director of Tombim Services Ltd., and a renowned patron of NTUA for his continued support to the association and efforts at promoting tennis development in Nigeria.

He said that Ajoge’s efforts had not only elevated the standard of tennis in Nigeria but also inspired other sponsors to support the sport.

“His commitment to developing tennis in Nigeria is evident through his consistent support of tournaments, players, and umpires, making him a valuable Patron of NTUA,” he said.

NAN reports that earning a ITF White Badge is a major milestone for tennis officials, as it grants international recognition and qualifies them to officiate at global tournaments under the International Tennis Federation.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Hygiene: Abia Govt. to build biogas plant in abattoirs
Science & Tech

Hygiene: Abia Govt. to build biogas plant in abattoirs

221 total views today

By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom

The Abia Government says it will commence a biogas initiative aimed at improving hygiene and environmental standards in abattoirs across the state.

Mr Ogbonnia Okereke, the General Manager, Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), said this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held in Umuahia.

Okereke said the project would begin at the Lokpanta Abattoir and focus on generating biogas from animal waste to process meat safely.

He said that this development would end the dangerous practice of burning meat with disused tyres, a common alternative to costly firewood in South-Eastern Nigeria.

Okereke said that meat processed with tyres poses serious health risks due to the release of toxic substances.

He described the biogas approach as a cultural shift, emphasising its benefits for public health and environmental sustainability.

Okereke said the state government had reopened the Lokpanta and Uzuakoli Abattoirs after comprehensive renovations to meet hygiene and safety standards.

He said these facilities were previously closed due to unsanitary conditions but had fully retrofitted and are ready for public use.

Okereke said that the move reflected the government’s commitment to health, safety and environmental reform.

He also expressed the commitment of the state government to transitioning from a linear to a circular economy by converting waste into energy and recyclable resources.

According to him, to support this transition, ASEPA had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a firm experienced in waste-to-energy technology.

He said that discussions on the waste-to-energy business had reached advanced stages, with implementation expected to begin shortly.

Okereke urged residents to improve compliance with sanitation fee payments to sustain ASEPA’s services and innovations.

He described the revised ASEPA rates as affordable and among the lowest in the South-East region.

Okereke noted that Aba had become cleaner than Umuahia despite its higher population and complexity.

He attributed Aba’s success to the strong support and cooperation of its residents in maintaining environmental cleanliness.

Okereke said that residents in Aba often assisted ASEPA by identifying and apprehending sanitation defaulters thereby showing remarkable civic engagement.

He also said that in contrast, such community-driven enforcement was still lacking in Umuahia.

Okereke assured that task forces would continue to remain active in both cities, combining enforcement with public cooperation.

He also called on all citizens to join efforts towards a cleaner, healthier Abia, noting that officials could not be everywhere.

He reiterated ASEPA’s dedication to public health, environmental innovation and effective waste management. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Uche Anunne

German defence tech firm unveils new underwater drone
Foreign

German defence tech firm unveils new underwater drone

233 total views today

German defence company — Helsing, which specialises in AI technology, has developed an underwater drone that can be deployed to protect ships and critical infrastructure, the Munich-based firm said on Tuesday.

Dubbed SG-1 Fathom, the autonomous underwater glider is capable of patrolling “for up to three months at a time in search of underwater threats,’’ Helsing said.

The company also unveiled the Lura software platform and advanced AI system which deploys on the drone.

It is able to detect and classify sounds made by ships and submarines “with unprecedented sensitivity and accuracy’’ thanks to a large acoustic model similar to language models.

“Lura’s use of a large acoustic model enables it to detect acoustic signatures 10x quieter than other AI models, even differentiating between specific vessels from within the same class.

It is at a speed up to 40x faster than human operators,’’ Helsing said.

The company also makes the HX-2 kamikaze drone, which is used by Ukraine.

“Lura detects threats so our navies can deter,’’ said co-founder and co-chief executive Grundbert Scherf.

“We must harness new technologies to keep pace with the threats against our critical infrastructure, national waters, and way of life.

“Deploying AI to the edge of underwater constellations will illuminate the oceans and deter our adversaries, for a strong Europe.’’

Western countries have been looking for ways to protect pipelines and data cables on the seabed from sabotage, attacks and spying attempts for some time. (dpa/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over jewelry heist
Entertainment

Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over jewelry heist

195 total views today

The last time Kim Kardashian faced the men that police say robbed her, she was bound with zip ties and held at gunpoint and feared she might die.

On Tuesday, nearly a decade later, she returns to Paris to testify against them.

One of the most recognisable figures on the planet is expected to take the stand against the 10 men accused of orchestrating the 2016 robbery.

The robbery that left her locked in a marble bathroom while masked assailants made off with more than six million dollars in jewels.

Kardashian is set to speak about the trauma that reshaped her life and redefined the risks of celebrity in the age of social media.

Her appearance is expected to be the most emotionally charged moment of a trial that began last month.

Court officials are bracing for a crowd, and security will be tight.

A second courtroom has been opened for journalists following via video feed.

Kardashian’s testimony is expected to revisit, in painful detail, how intruders zip-tied her hands, demanded her ring, and left her believing she might never see her children again.

Twelve suspects were originally charged. One has died. Another has been excused from proceedings due to serious illness.

Most are in their 60s and 70s dubbed les papys braqueurs, or “the grandpa robbers” by the French press but investigators insist they were no harmless retirees.

Authorities have described them as a seasoned and coordinated criminal group. (AP/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

FCTA nurturing students’ creativity, entrepreneurship skills
Education

FCTA nurturing students’ creativity, entrepreneurship skills

190 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reiterated its commitment to scale-up programmes that cultivate students’ creativity and entrepreneurship skills to change the world.

Dr Danlami Hayyo, Mandate Secretary, FCT Education Secretariat, stated this in Abuja on Monday, at the grand finale and award ceremony of the FCT-Brunel Innovation Challenge.

The challenge was organised by the Brunel University Business School, London, and the FCT Education Secretariat to promote entrepreneurship among secondary school students.

Represented by the Director, Department of Higher Education, Mr Siyanbola Olumuyiwa, the mandate secretary said that FCT was building an education system that empowers young people with skills and confidence to shape the future.

He said that the students’ innovative ideas “is a testament to what is possible when education is anchored in innovation and supported by visionary leadership.

“This event represents more than the culmination of a competition but a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the limitless potential of our students to provide practical solutions to the challenges facing our society,” he said.

Hayyo commended the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his unwavering support for education, youth empowerment, and transformative partnerships.

“His leadership has continued to inspire bold initiatives that position Abuja not only as Nigeria’s capital but as a beacon of excellence in education and innovation.

“To our dear students, you are the heartbeat of this challenge.

“You have embraced new ideas with enthusiasm, tackled problems with courage, and shown us all what the future could look like through your eyes.

“Whether or not you claim the top prize today, know that you are already winners in our eyes and ambassadors of a new, innovative generation,” he said.

Dr Mohammed Ladan, Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, described the innovation challenge as a “place where creativity meets opportunity”.

Represented by Mrs Pamele Mbanefo, Director/Principal, Nigeria-Korea Model School, Abuja, Ladan stressed that ideas have the power to change the world, if properly harnessed.

“Today we gathered to explore new possibilities, disrupt conventional thinking and showcase the brilliance of minds who were determined to make a difference.

“This competition is not just about presenting ideas, but about practical solutions that address new world problems,” he said.

He urged students to think differently, push their limits to see how far their imagination could take them.

Glisten International Academy emerged winner of the competition with Government Secondary School (GSS) Gwagwalada and GSS Kwali as first and second runner up. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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