NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
UN Women trains Bauchi artisans on biogas digester installation
Agriculture

UN Women trains Bauchi artisans on biogas digester installation

135 total views today

By Ahmed Kaigama

The UN Women says it has trained 20 artisans and seven agricultural extension workers on biogas digester installation, maintenance, and kitchen gardening to boost livelihoods in Bauchi’s rural communities.

The National Coordinator for the UN Women Biogas Projects, Mr Desmond Osemije, disclosed this on Tuesday at the opening of the training in Bauchi.

Osemije said that the initiative was also designed to tackle climate challenges in rural communities.

He explained that the 20 technicians, primarily plumbers, were being equipped with the skills to install and maintain biogas digesters and will, in turn, train 250 rural women beneficiaries in Bauchi and Dass Local Government Areas.

Osemije further said that 250 rural women would benefit from the biogas digester, comprising 125 each from Bauchi and Dass LGAs.

“Additionally, seven agricultural extension workers are undergoing training to establish kitchen gardens, enabling rural households to grow vegetables and other crops for easy access to fresh food.

“This project seeks to improve the time use of women, boost agricultural productivity and incomes, enhance health standards, reduce deforestation, and contribute significantly to combating climate change,” Osemije said.

He also said that producing low-cost biogas from animal waste would provide rural women with affordable clean energy for cooking, reduce income and time poverty.

It will also lessen their exposure to health hazards and risks of gender-based violence.

Also speaking, Hajiya Marka Abbas, the National Public Relations Officer of the Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation of Nigeria, underscored the need for collaboration with UN Women to promote sustainable agricultural practices and a cleaner environment.

She said that the project not only trains women and artisans to install and maintain bio-digesters, but also creates opportunities for income generation and economic independence.

“By converting waste into biogas and organic fertiliser, the project supports a circular economy, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and combats deforestation.

“The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Bauchi State Government through the Ministries of Women Affairs and Agriculture,” she said.

A participant, Miss Fatima Usman, expressed optimism that the training would enhance her livelihood and pledged to pass on the knowledge to other rural women. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Sam Oditah

Minister lauds Wike for constructing bus terminals in Abuja
Metro

Minister lauds Wike for constructing bus terminals in Abuja

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By Philip Yatai

The Minister of Transportation, Mr Said Alkali, has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, for constructing three bus and taxi terminals in Abuja.

Alkali gave the commendation in Abuja on Tuesday during the inauguration of the completed Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminal, constructed by the Wike-led Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

He described it as “landmark achievement” and assured the ministry’s support through collaboration to sustain the efforts.

He added that the laudable initiative would no doubt improve public transport and boost economic activities in the territory.

The minister said “it will also provide veritable avenue that will facilitate the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which placed transportation on top of its priorities.”

He appealed to relevant stakeholders, especially the leadership of various road transport unions to maximise the potential of the terminal.

According to him, effective utilisation of the facility will encourage government to do more for the welfare of the people, dignity of road users and transport operators.

The minister disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the construction of six bus terminals, one in each of the geopolitical zones in the country.

Alkali said the terminals would be constructed in Abeokuta, Ogun State (South West; Onitsha in Anambra State (South East); Warri in Delta State (South-South); Lokoja in Kogi State (North Central); Gombe in Gombe State (North East); and Kano in Kano State (North West).

He explained that the choice of the locations was influenced by their strategic commercial viability and the need to boost economic growth and inclusive development through provision of modern transport facility in the respective zones.

He commended Tinubu for supporting the development of the transport sector in multi-faceted ways.

According to him, this is the first time in the history of the country that the Federal Government has made investment of such magnitude in the transport sector, apart from rail and road.

He appreciated the visionary leadership of Tinubu for prioritising the development of transportation as a globally recognised enabler of economic growth and gateway to the nation’s economy.

On his part, Wike said the FCT Administration inaugurated the construction of three bus and taxi terminals in 2024, one in Mabushi, one in Central Business Area and another in Kugbo.

He said that the Kugbo terminal would be inaugurated next week, while the one at Central Business Area would be inaugurated before the end of 2025.

He added that three additional bus and taxi terminals would be constructed, with one each in Gwagwalada, Bwari and Kuje this year.

According to him, the essence of the terminals is to enhance security by reducing the number of vehicles on the road.

“We are trying to eliminate the `one chance’ syndrome where commuters are vulnerable to attacks by unknown drivers,” he added.

Ealier, Mr Chinedum Elechi, the Mandate Secretary, Transportation Secretariat, FCT Administration, described the bus and taxi terminal as “first of its kind” in the territory.

Elechi added that the terminal, built on 1.8 hectares of land, was designed to operate for 24 hours for both intercity and intracity transportation.

He said that the project was awarded in May 2024 for completion in 15 months but was completed in 10 months.

He said that the terminal has among other facilities an escalator, ticketing booths, shops, cinemas, restaurants and a family room for nursing mothers.

To ensure security, the mandate secretary said that 45 closed-circuit television cameras have been installed in strategic locations within the terminal. (NAN)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

China to eliminate tariffs on imports from African countries
Foreign

China to eliminate tariffs on imports from African countries

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China has announced the full removal of tariffs on imports from all African countries, ENA, a partner of TV BRICS, has reported.

The tariff elimination falls under the new China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development, a framework designed to accelerate Africa’s integration into global trade by increasing market access, improving customs procedures, and strengthening institutional trade capacity.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by Beijing to support industrialisation, diversify imports, and reinforce economic links with African states beyond raw materials.

President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s readiness to welcome all African exports under zero-tariff treatment.

He emphasised that the new arrangement would be accompanied by enhanced cooperation in customs, quarantine, logistics, and capacity building.

China also pledged to support training programmes and expand the visibility of high-quality African goods in the Chinese market.

In 2024, China–Africa trade reached nearly 300 billion dollars, consolidating China’s position as Africa’s largest trading partner.

Observers note that the new tariff policy may further strengthen the African Continental Free Trade Area by encouraging intra-African production and export diversification.

The strategic shift is expected to unlock new opportunities for value-added goods and services from across the continent, reinforcing Africa’s role in global supply chains. (TV BRICS/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Knobel calls for ethical AI, global governance to protect developing countries
Science & Tech

Knobel calls for ethical AI, global governance to protect developing countries

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By Ibukun Emiola

Prof. Marcelo Knobel, Executive Director, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), says strong ethical frameworks and inclusive global standards will prevent Artificial Intelligence (AI) from further widening global inequalities.

Knobel told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that ethical considerations must be embedded from the outset of AI development, especially to protect marginalised communities in developing countries.

“There’s a significant risk that AI systems can worsen existing inequalities if deployed without assessing their social impacts,” he said.

He listed algorithmic bias, data sovereignty, and personal data protection as top ethical concerns, noting that researchers in the global South need both tools and training to manage AI responsibly.

Knobel says TWAS aligns with UNESCO’s ‘Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence’, which promotes human rights, justice, and environmental sustainability.

He stated that data privacy must be maintained through strong governance frameworks, anonymisation, and informed consent processes that are sensitive to cultural and local contexts.

“TWAS can promote data sovereignty by expanding training on data governance and advocating equitable international research collaborations,” he said.

He warned that current AI governance frameworks were fragmented and underrepresented, creating regulatory inconsistencies and power imbalances.

“Finding this balance requires institutions to integrate ethical considerations from the earliest stages of AI development, rather than treating them as an afterthought.

“This means involving diverse stakeholders—including representatives from communities that might be affected by these technologies—in the planning and development process.

“Institutions should establish clear governance structures that provide oversight without stifling innovation.

“This might include ethics review boards with expertise in AI applications, mandatory impact assessments before deployment of new tools, and ongoing monitoring of AI systems to identify unintended consequences,” Knobel said.

According to him, transparency is also crucial, both in how AI systems function and in acknowledging their limitations.

He stated that scientists and research institutions must be willing to pause development when ethical concerns arise and redirect efforts when necessary.

“Finally, capacity building around ethical AI should be prioritised, especially in developing countries.

“By equipping scientists worldwide with the knowledge to evaluate AI systems critically, we can ensure that innovation proceeds responsibly across all contexts.

“Additionally, many current approaches focus narrowly on specific applications rather than establishing foundational principles that can adapt to emerging capabilities.

“We need flexible frameworks that can evolve alongside the technology, while maintaining core ethical commitments,” Knobel said.

He said that TWAS was preparing to join global AI governance coalitions and consulting fellows to develop policy positions that reflect the unique priorities of the global South.

“We are mapping international initiatives and identifying entry points where our network can contribute meaningfully, particularly in areas like climate adaptation, public health, and education,” Knobel said.

He also announced that TWAS would be holding a high-level roundtable on AI ethics during its General Conference in Brazil in September. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso and Moses Solanke

Nigeria contributes 85,325km² global seabed mapping initiative – official
Defence/Security

Nigeria contributes 85,325km² global seabed mapping initiative – official

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Adm. Ayodeji Olugbode, says Nigeria has contributed 85,325 square kilometers to the global seabed mapping initiative.

Olugbode said this on Tuesday, in Abuja at a news conference on World Hydrography Day celebration/West Africa Hydrographic Summit.

He noted that in spite of oceans covering 71 per cent of the earth’s surface, only 26.1 per cent had been mapped, hindering effective ocean governance.

Olugbode said that at the national level, the National Hydrographic Office had effectively mapped the Lagos and Calabar coastal lines under the national charting scheme.

“There are some things that we put into place: the mapping and the water. One is the density of shipping traffic, which Lagos has.

“Second, is the mobility of the seabed. How often does the seabed move, and that will determine, and this determines the rapidity in which we map.”

According to him, the next area for mapping is the Bonny, and the mapping process is being conducted systematically.

Speaking on the West Africa Hydrographic Summit scheduled for June 19 to June 21 in Abuja, Olugbode said it would bring together ECOWAS navies to discuss challenges and opportunities in maritime governance.

According to him, hydrography is the backdrop of maritime safety, economic development, and environmental sustainability, as well as ocean governance.

“The summit will chart the course for the future of hydrography in our region towards a global action.

“In 2025, we aim to firstly strengthen regional collaboration through the main West African Hydrographic Summit, foster joint surveys, and sharing data platforms, both virtual and institutionally.

“Two, we aim to feature keynote lectures and presentations, advocating hydrography and seabed to support the Seabed 2030 Initiative, a global program critical for the safety of navigation, climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and economic growth of the world.

“Thirdly, we hope to showcase innovations in hydrography technology through exhibitions and live demonstrations.

”Last year, we celebrated the role of hydrography in maritime safety.”

He said  that the conference took a bold step this year by addressing regional gaps and aligning with global frameworks.

He said that it would also align with regional frameworks, like the African-Continental Free Trade Agreement, the United Nations Sustainable Goal 12, titled Life Below Water.

“This emphasizes the critical importance of the ocean and marine resources to human well-being and the planet and the health of the planet, which is a critical factor for the sustenance of mankind,” Olugbode said.  (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Emotions as inmates salute Zulum over infrastructural achievements amidst insurgency
Features

Emotions as inmates salute Zulum over infrastructural achievements amidst insurgency

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By Abdullahi Mohammed, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Recently, a soul-stirring tribute for Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno evoked emotions at Maiduguri Maximum Custodial Centre.

The heart-warming prayers of teary-eyed inmates for the governor hinged on his incredible infrastructural achievements amidst insurgents’ attacks.

It was not about the 66 inmates that the governor granted pardon to on Democracy Day, or about the N20, 000 cash he gifted to each of the 1,280 inmates; it was not the donation of 300 bags of rice, 50 jerry cans of cooking oil and five cows to the inmates; it was about Zulum’s feats in governance.

Mr Daniel Simon, referred to as Sarkin inmates, who spoke on behalf of the inmates during the governor’s visit on Democracy Day, said what the governor had done in the area of housing and roads infrastructure in the capital city and some communities amidst attacks was unthinkable.

Simon prayed God to continue to bless the governor and grant him the opportunity to be one of those who would be favoured by God to transform Nigeria in the future as he did in Borno.

In the light of the aforementioned, Mr Dauda Iliya, the governor’s spokesperson, highlighted some of Zulum’s recent achievements.

Iliya listed the construction of 1.90 km dual road, with 3.80 km drainage and streetlight at Amb. Mahmud Ahmed Road Gwange.

“The construction of 9.30km roads network and 9.10km drainages network at Umarari/Ngarannam; construction of 3.88km road and drainage network at Farm Centre Housing Estate.’’

He said that the governor had also constructed N782 million dual carriage road network at Kashim Ibrahim University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH) and rehabilitation of 3.10 km single carriage road within the Kashim Ibrahim University.

“The rehabilitation and overlay of 37.54km dual carriage road Lagos Street, from Welcome to Maiduguri Gate through Bama Road to Custom Flyover, from Custom Flyover through Sir Kashim Ibrahim Road to West End Flyover and from West End Flyover through Baga Road to Gubio Road Junction.

“The rehabilitation and overlay of 4.80 km dual carriage road from West End Flyover through Sir Kashim Ibrahim Road to Race Course Roundabout to Shehu’s Palace Roundabout, 5.56 km Muhammadu Indimi Way and 960m Shehu Laminu Way from Post Office to Bolori Roundabout.

“The completion of 3 span flyover bridge with service length at West End Sir Kashim Ibrahim Road,” the spokesperson said.

Some international partners had, in December 2024, appraised  Zulum’s achievements at the inauguration of 1,900 housing units used in resettling the 1,874 households affected by insurgency in Monguno.

Annet Günther, the German Ambassador to Nigeria, described Zulum’s approach to the resettlement efforts as realistic to achieving peace, security and stability in the North-East.

Günther said there was need for those working towards peace–Zulum, UN or the international partners, like Germany– to have perseverance and determination.

For Elsie Attafuah of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, the state and the international partners’ joint efforts had been yielding results in the North-East, Borno in particular.

Attafuah said that the UNDP had been focusing on enhancing community security, safety, rehabilitating essential infrastructure, basic services and revitalising local economies for sustainable recovery.

“Through these efforts, we have restored trust between community and the government, laying a solid foundation for reintegration, economic renewal and long-term peace.

“This project (housing) represents a model of collaboration between the Borno Government, UNDP, our donors, especially the Government of Germany, UK, Netherlands, Sweden, EU and many more to support this initiative.

“UNDP, through Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF), that is the stabilisation facility, supported 500 housing units, 900 semi-permanent shelters and 375 solar-powered streetlights which will improve security particularly for the weak and the most vulnerable.

“Building peace is not easy; it takes continued efforts and it does not come overnight; I have just been told as for how many years we have been working on this already.

“This housing project is also a great example of collaboration between the Government of Borno and international partners.

“Funding for the housing units comes from both the state government and international partners,” Günther said.

The German diplomat said the houses and the shelters built in Monguno for the returnees and the survivors were contributions towards building peace.

Attafuah corroborated Günther’s commendation of Zulum’s administration, noting that the housing project aligns with UNDP’s regional stabilisation effort, working towards peace restoration in communities in Lake Chad area.

In spite of the challenges, Zulum said his administration had succeeded in resettling more than 2.5 million people affected by the Boko Haram conflicts.

He said that before the end of his tenure in 2027, his government would close all IDPs camps in the state.

Worthy of mention, Zulum said that the German Government funded the construction of 500 permanent and another 900 semi-permanent shelters, while the Borno Government constructed the remaining 500 houses and provided amenities such as a health centre and potable water, among others.

“A Letter of Agreement (LOA) was signed between Borno Government and UNDP in 2020 under the RS German initiative to start the construction of 500 housing units.

“In August 2023, another LOA was signed under RSF German reintegration funds aimed at completing the 500 permanent housing units, providing an additional 900 semi-permanent shelters, and installing 375 solar streetlights,” the governor said.

He said in addition to the efforts, the Borno Government had also constructed 500 permanent housing units and provided toilets for the temporary shelters, bringing the total number of houses constructed to 1,900.

According to him, the accommodation will play a crucial role in the voluntary decongestion and eventual closure of some IDP camps in Monguno, ensuring a smoother transition for resettling families.

Zulum said that the construction of 500 two-bedroom self-contain flats, 10 block two-story building of 72 three-bedroom flats Metro housing estate in Maiduguri was aimed at cushioning the effects of accommodation costs among the civil servants both at federal and state levels.

Of note, there is scepticism from the returnees in Monguno regarding their resettlement plans, but their body language speaks volumes.

To this end, the governor told those of them who were not ancestrally from Monguno that his government would allow them to continue to stay in the camps for the time being, but they would still have to return to their places of origins.

Zulum pointed out that the objective of his resettlement efforts was to comfort the survivors in their permanent homes and engage them in farming and other business activities in order to be self-reliant without depending on donor’s aid.

He said that the majority of the survivors in IDP camps were women and children, mostly young mothers between the age of 15 years and 17 years who were born and brought up in the IDPs during the conflict period of more than 15 years.

The governor said no fewer than 1,874 IDP families from 14 communities benefited from his housing project, which was achieved about seven months ago.

He also said that each of them (beneficiary) received food and non-food items, N50,000 cash for the household heads and another N20,000 for each housewife.

A government official said on anonymity that children (young mothers at IDPs) took IDP camps as their permanent home, for they did not even know about life outside IDP camps.

“Ironically, nobody can tell the whereabouts of the relatives of those women and children in IDP camps –15 years after the peak of Boko Haram conflict, not even the parents of the young mothers, whose true identity is questionable because of the circumstances at which they were born.

“The young mothers themselves were either brought into camps as orphans or their own mothers if still alive, got their pregnancy out of wedlock,’’ he said.

Observers say Zulum deserves commendation for remarkable accomplishments in infrastructure in spite of lingering onslaughts from insurgents.

They say that while security operatives also deserve commendation for holding sway, efforts should be stepped up towards restoring peace and stability in Borno.(NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

 

Bus terminal: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to safe, orderly public transport
Metro

Bus terminal: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to safe, orderly public transport

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By Philip Yatai

President Bola Tinubu, says his administration is taking decisive steps to bring order, accountability and safety in public transportation.

Tinubu stated this while inaugurating the newly constructed Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminal in Abuja on Tuesday to celebrate his second year in office.

Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abass, the president noted that the nation’s capital had been grappling with the challenges of the informal transport system.

According to him, the development has led to traffic congestion and, regrettably, the menace of “one chance” crimes that have threatened the peace of our citizens.

“With the completion of the Mabushi Bus Terminal and the Kugbo terminal, we are taking decisive steps to bring order, accountability, and safety to public transportation.

“No longer will our citizens be left to the mercy of impromptu pick-up points; they will now have a secure, well-regulated environment to board their vehicles, knowing that both the drivers and the vehicles are known and registered.

“This is a critical stride in our broader efforts to clean up our city and enhance urban security.

“Beyond the immediate benefits of organised transport and heightened security, this project will also serve as a powerful engine for economic empowerment.”

He disclosed that the construction of the terminal, along with its sister projects, created over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs for the industrious people of Abuja.

“From skilled artisans to general laborers, this initiative has put food on tables and rekindled hope for countless families, demonstrating our administration’s dedication to job creation as a core component of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

Tinubu described the terminal as not just a place to catch a bus but a “modern facility designed for the comfort and convenience of our people”.

He said that the terminal would feature integrated commercial activities, including areas for relaxation.

“I am particularly pleased to note the inclusion of amenities such as cinema halls where commuters can unwind, and other essential services.

“These are the state-of-the-art facilities that a capital city like Abuja truly deserves,” he said.

The president commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, for the laudable initiative.

He added that Wike’s vision, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

“His commitment to providing first-class infrastructure for Abuja is evident in the quality and speed of delivery we celebrate today.

“Today, as we inaugurate the Mabushi Bus Terminal, we are not just opening a building; we are opening a new chapter for public transportation in Abuja.

“We are reaffirming our promise to provide a city where citizens can live, work, and commute with dignity, safety, and efficiency.

“This is a clear demonstration that our Renewed Hope Agenda is not merely a slogan, but a lived experience for our people,” Tinubu said.

Earlier, Wike said that the inauguration of the bus and taxi terminal marks a significant milestone in FCT Administration’s efforts to modernise transportation infrastructure in the territory.

The minister said that the FCT Administration inaugurated the construction of three bus and taxi terminals in 2024, one in Mabushi, one in Central Business Area and another in Kugbo.

He added that the Kugbo terminal would be inaugurated next week while the one at Central Business Area would be inaugurated before the end of 2025.

“Additionally, we will construct new terminals in Gwagwalada, Bwari, and Kuje this year.

“The real essence of this project is to enhance security by reducing the number of unauthorised vehicles on the road.

“We are trying to eliminate the “one chance” syndrome, where commuters are vulnerable to attacks by unknown drivers.

“With this terminal, commuters will know the drivers and the vehicles they are boarding, making their journeys safer,” he said.

Wike added that the FCT Administration was also addressing the issue of indiscriminate parking on the roads.

According to him, the terminal will provide a safe and organised space for vehicles to park, thereby reducing congestion on the roads.

“The terminal will operate 24 hours a day, providing commuters with a safe and comfortable space to wait for their buses.

“There will be amenities such as food courts, restrooms, and entertainment facilities.

“However, the terminal will not be not be operated by the FCTA Transport Secretariat, but private operators who will run it efficiently.” (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Health tax, consumable costs raise medical bills — Expert
Health

Health tax, consumable costs raise medical bills — Expert

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By Amina Ahmed

Dr Hassan Garba, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Phalycon Clinic in Bauchi, has attributed the rising costs of consumables and drugs as a major factor behind high medical bills and healthcare service charges.

Garba said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi on Tuesday.

The private medical practitioner expressed concern that the surge in prices was significantly impacting health financing and access to care.

He noted that access to treatments and essential medicines had become a barrier to achieving universal health coverage.

According to him, the Federal Government should prioritise tax reforms in the health sector to improve outcomes.

“Medical services are available, but the cost of care is depriving people of access. The rising prices of consumables and drugs are affecting health outcomes.

“If the Federal Government removes taxes on health-related items, it will lead to better health outcomes in Nigeria,” Garba added.

Also, some residents of Bauchi metropolis shared their concerns.

Alhaji Inuwa Fada, a resident, said that treating malaria costs around N3,000, even without any laboratory tests.

“We often have malaria, and each time, you spend about N3,000 just on treatment. This is malaria season in the state due to the rains,” he said.

Another resident, Mr Bala Musa, similarly noted that while services were available at health facilities, the cost of drugs remained a major concern.

He commended the Bauchi State Government’s drug revolving fund initiative but urged more investment to meet the needs of the growing population. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NCAN nurturing 1m seedlings to boost cashew production
Agriculture

NCAN nurturing 1m seedlings to boost cashew production

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By Dorathy Aninge

The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) says it is nurturing one million seedlings in nurseries to distribute to farmers across the country to boost cashew production.

NCAN President, Dr Joseph Ajanaku, said this on Tuesday at the planting of 20,000 seeds of cashew in Makurdi as part of the initiative.

Ajanaku, who was represented by Mr Mohammed Kabir, NCAN National Financial Secretary, said that the effort was in collaboration with Beyond Farm Collection (BFC).

The president added that the aim was to increase the annual production that currently stands at 580,000 metric tonnes to at least two million metric tonnes.

He said that the target was achievable, as 21 states of the federation have fertile land for large-scale cultivation of cashew.

Ajanaku emphasised that the move was imperative because of the vast economic and employment opportunities within the Nigerian cashew sector.

According to him, the cashew industry has the potential to inject billions of dollars into the Nigerian economy if properly supported by the stakeholders.

“We’re currently cultivating about one million cashew seedlings in nurseries to be distributed to cashew farmers nationwide.

“Just last week, I was in Kogi, where we raised 20,000 seedlings. Today, I’m in Benue supervising the nursery here.

“The one million cashew seedlings target is not restricted to just a few states; it’s an ongoing national effort.

Ajanaku said that NCAN had nurtured 300,000 seedlings across seven states of Kogi, Benue, Kwara, Oyo, Osun, Edo, and Enugu.

“So far, we have completed Kogi and Benue, and work is currently ongoing in Edo.

“After that, we will move to other states with suitable land and climate for cashew cultivation,” he added.

He described the Benue soil across the three senatorial zones as suitable for the cultivation of cashew.

Mrs Bridget Yough, Benue NCAN Chairperson, lauded the national leadership for choosing the state for the initiative.

Yough stated that based on last year’s analysis, they discovered that Benue produced just about 5,000 metric tonnes of cashew, adding that the figure was low considering the state’s potential.

“To boost productivity and benefit from this agricultural venture, we need quality seedlings and not just any seedlings. These are ‘Ogbomosho’ seedlings, which are known to be excellent for export.

“In fact, they are in high demand across Nigeria and even beyond. We’re grateful to have received them here for our farmers.

“Benue is starting with 20,000 seedlings, as you can see. We’re already planting them now. But we are requesting more, and we believe the national office will support us further,’’ she said.

Yough said cashew was extremely profitable, adding that ‘cashews are like diamonds on trees’.

She said that the older the cashew tree gets, the richer the farmer becomes.

“Right now, the minimum return you can get per metric tonne is about ₦1.8 million.

“If you plant cashew on one hectare of land, about 200 trees, you can generate at least four million naira annually. That’s the minimum. So yes, cashew is very lucrative,” she said.

The State Secretary of NCAN, Mr James Ekele, said that Benue has vast forested land and that what the national office was doing was empowering farmers, especially in Benue.

Ekele said the effort by the national body would enable them to convert idle lands into productive ventures and to generate income from them.

“I believe that as sensible and forward-thinking people, we’re already embracing this initiative wholeheartedly.

“And I think the government should also look into what the national office is doing and find ways to support and scale up cashew production across the states.

“Today, we’re facing challenges like insurgency and terrorists setting up camps in our communities, but cashew is one crop that can help us reclaim and put our lands to productive use.

“It can help chase away these threats by keeping the land busy and secure. But one of the major challenges farmers face is that many of our lands are still forested,” he stated.

The secretary called on the Benue government to invest in the sector by opening up farmland and providing machinery to remove trees and make the land arable again.

He urged the government to also empower farmers to access more seedlings and inputs. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Peter Amine

JUSUN, Ondo Govt. meeting deadlocked, strike continues – Secretary
Judiciary

JUSUN, Ondo Govt. meeting deadlocked, strike continues – Secretary

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By Alaba Olusola Oke

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Ondo State Branch, says its ongoing strike would continue due to the deadlocked meeting with the Ondo State Government.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that JUSUN embarked on an indefinite strike on Friday over non-implementation of financial autonomy by the state government.

NAN also reports that the meeting with the state Head of Service (HoS), Mr Philip Bayo, was due to the strike.

The state Secretary of JUSUN, Mr Kehinde Alade, told NAN on Tuesday in Akure that all efforts to engage the government’s major representatives proved abortive.

Alade stated that the strike would continue until the state government became sensitive to the association’s plight.

According to him, the meeting with the HoS yesterday ended in a deadlock, though we hope to have another meeting anytime from now.

“As at now, we don’t know when we can call off the strike because there has been no fruitful engagement from the government.

“The HoS asked us to shift our ground to give room for negotiation and we are not ready for that.

“People like Mr Governor and the state’s Attorney General that have the mandate to call us to a roundtable meeting have not shown their interest. No meaningful engagements yet so far,” he stated.

NAN reports that all the rooms and offices at the State High Court and different magistrates’ courts in Akure, the state capital, were not open for services. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

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