NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Doodle boss seeks Tinubu’s actions to boost Nigeria’s creative economy
Entertainment

Doodle boss seeks Tinubu’s actions to boost Nigeria’s creative economy

165 total views today
By Priscilla Osaje
Yinka Ade-Aluko, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Doodle-Film Hub, has called on President Bola Tinubu to expedite actions on his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to boost Nigeria’s creative economy.
Ade-Aluko described education and skill development as the first step towards a thriving creative economy.
He added that the Renewed Hope Agenda provided a strategic framework to galvanise efforts across all the sectors by focusing on projects and programmes tailored to the youth.
“The government can create jobs, stimulate economic activities and enhance the country’s cultural landscape with the following actions to bolster Nigeria’s creative economy.
“The first action is education and skill development, a step towards thriving creative economy by investing on it in establishing specialised institutions and vocational training centres focused on creative disciplines.
“The disciplines such as film, music, fashion, publishing, etc can equip the youth with necessary skills.
“Collaborations among these sectors and with international organisations and experienced professionals can further enrich the curricula, preparing Nigerian talents for a global stage,” the Doodle CEO said.
He added that a robust creative economy funding and financials must be put into consideration in order to achieve a positive result.
“Access to funding remains a crucial barrier for budding creative entrepreneurs. The government should establish grants, low-interest loans, and investment funds targeted at creative businesses, projects and talents.
“Initiatives akin to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) support programmes can be tailored specifically for creative projects in film, music production, and other areas, empowering young talents to bring their visions to life.
“Promotion of Intellectual Property (IP) rights will strengthen the legal framework surrounding intellectual property rights that is essential to protecting creative works.
“The government can foster an environment where creativity flourishes, by ensuring creators can monetise their innovations without the fear of piracy and infringement.
 “Public awareness campaigns and training on intellectual property can further empower creators to safeguard their work,” Doodle CEO said.
According to him, infrastructure development to support the growth of the creative economy and significant investments in infrastructure are required.
“These include building state-of-the-art studios, locally breed/single-screen cinema theatres, art galleries, performance spaces, and co-working hubs that facilitate collaboration among creatives.
 “Reliable internet access is crucial for digital artists and software developers, enabling them to reach global audiences.
“Others are promoting the film and music industries because film and music sectors represent the most appealing creative industries for the youth in Nigeria.
“Cultural Festivals and Events organising to showcase Nigerian creativity in music, film, fashion, and arts can attract tourists and stimulate local economies.
“Digital transformation with the digital landscape continually evolving, embracing technology is crucial for the growth of the creative economy among others.”
Ade-Aluko said that creative economy encompassed a wide range of activities, including arts and crafts, design, fashion, film, music, performing arts, publishing, and more.
He said these sectors have unique characteristics and capabilities, adding that when combined, they could contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP.
“In recent years, the global economy has increasingly recognised creativity, intellectual property, and knowledge as vital drivers of growth and innovation.
 “This comprehensive strategy not only aims to empower the youth but also to position Nigeria as a clear leader in creative industries such as film and music sectors in which the nation has immense potential.
“As Nigeria embarks on this journey under the Tinubu government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasis on a thriving creative economy can lead to transformative results.
 “Investing in education, funding, IP protection, infrastructure, and global collaboration, Nigeria can leverage its rich cultural heritage and youthful population to stimulate significant economic growth.”
The Doodle CEO said the creative economy is indeed a “9ja Sure Bet”, one that promises prosperity, innovation and a brighter future for the nation.
“In the worlds of the youths who embody our creative spirit, let us enable them to turn their stories into assets, dreams into realities, and creativity into an engine for sustainable economic development.
“By focusing on these sectors and implementing the outlined strategies, Nigeria can not only unlock the potential of its creative economy but also create a more vibrant, inclusive, and economically robust future for its youth and the entire nation,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation
Environment

GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation

143 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The GreenHubAfrica Foundation, an NGO, has unveiled a Climate Action SuperHeroes (CASH) Youth Network, a digital-first platform, to train and empower 50,000 young change makers on climate-smart innovation and circular-economy enterprises.

GreenHubAfrica, which promotes environmental sustainability, inaugurated the network on Saturday in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2025 World Environment Day and Exhibition popularly known as WEDex.

Mr Henry Bassey, Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, identified the vision and mission of the foundation as a greener and more sustainable continent.

Bassey said waste management value chain had huge employment and empowerment opportunities adding that youth engagement in the sector had huge economic benefits.

He said the organisation’s 2024 CASH school outreach topped performers list as participants continued to demonstrate the knowledge they acquired through the programme.

Bassey said WEDex, which started as a virtual event in 2020 due to restrictions of COVID-19 lockdown, had become a movement.

He identified 2025 edition of WEDex as another milestone after five years of COVID-19 devastation.

Bassey said WEDex had grown to become a highly sought after platform with annual events on the platforms including webinars, podcasts and outcome capture sessions resulting in documented blueprint to climate action from the young and old.

“In 1972, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day, marking the start of a global movement to raise awareness and accelerate action for the protection of our environment.

“WEDex 2025 stands not merely as an event, but a movement—a bold expression of action and accountability.

“What once began as a webinar series during lockdown has matured into a one-day, high-level engagement that merges conversation with consequence.

“The platform will focus on unpacking thought leadership Ideas to deliver solutions that overcome complex environmental challenges, through practical reforms,” he said.

Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, President, Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), identified plastic pollution as the second municipal solid waste challenge regarding waste management in the country.

Okobia said that waste management was a crisis that required the concerted efforts of all and sundry to put a stop to plastic waste.

The president, who identified the private sector as key in ending plastic waste in the country, urged the government to give the sector the opportunity and enabling environment to thrive.

“So, if we must put a stop to plastic pollution, we must look at where the gaps are; if you separate your waste, you separate your recycled waste from your biodegradable, who evacuates them?

“Where are they evacuating them to? Is it the recycling facility? Or is there a landfill site? That is the challenge; so, we should not just go on to speak about plastic pollution.

“We should look at how we can cover those gaps, and make it work; those in the government, private sector and civil society groups, we must come together,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Environment Day is commemorated annually on June 5.

The theme for 2025 is “Beat Plastic Pollution”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Tinubu’s wife urges diaspora to support Nigeria
General News

Tinubu’s wife urges diaspora to support Nigeria

129 total views today

By Celine-Damilola Oyewole

Wife of President Bola Tinubu, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute more actively to national development.

She called on them to support efforts aimed at rebuilding the country and improving its wellbeing through greater commitment and engagement.

Mrs Tinubu made the call while receiving Dr Phillips Ozuah, President and CEO of Montefiore Medicine, at the State House, Abuja.

She praised Ozuah, a renowned paediatrician and philanthropist, for his achievements in the United States and his willingness to invest back home in Nigeria.

“We are proud a Nigerian is excelling in the USA. It is commendable that you’ve supported your alma mater, UCH Ibadan,” she said.

She added that starting with education was significant. “Through the Renewed Hope Initiative, we are doing a lot to promote education,” she noted.

The First Lady acknowledged Ozuah’s efforts in enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation and supporting the diaspora’s contribution to national progress.

She encouraged other Nigerians abroad to use their skills and resources to support development in their homeland.

In his remarks, Ozuah thanked Mrs Tinubu for championing both domestic and international support for Nigerians.

He praised her initiatives, especially those under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), that address maternal and child health across the country.

“I am inspired by the First Lady’s impactful work in health and education,” Ozuah said.

He pledged to collaborate with the RHI to extend support to more Nigerians, especially women and children nationwide. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Ebonyi celebrates landing of 1st commercial flight
Aviation

Ebonyi celebrates landing of 1st commercial flight

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By Christian Ogbonna

The Ebonyi Government has welcomed its first commercial flight at Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo Airport, located in Onueke, Ezza-South Local Government Area of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the aircraft arrived from Abuja on Friday at 10:30 a.m. with 35 passengers aboard.

The flight was operated by United Nigeria Airlines, bearing the registration number 5N-8WV.

One of the passengers, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, former Deputy Governor, described the flight as a major milestone for the state.

“This is the first flight, and I’m fortunate to be among those who landed here,” he said.

He praised the runway, saying it is among the best in Nigeria, and the landing was as smooth as anywhere globally.

Another passenger, Emmanuel Nwafor, said the event fulfilled a long-standing dream for the people of Ebonyi.

“History has been made today. I’m honoured to witness what God has done for our dear state,” Nwafor added.

He described the flight experience as flawless, with no turbulence, and a perfect take-off and landing.

Chief Elias Mbam, former chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Commission, also flew in on the inaugural flight.

He expressed joy over the launch of commercial operations and commended the state government for the achievement.

Mbam urged for improved frequency of flights and enhancement of facilities at the airport.

The State Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu, praised Gov. Francis Nwifuru for making the operations possible. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Kamal Tayo Oropo

NAHCON begins inbound transportation, returns 1,310 pilgrims
Religious

NAHCON begins inbound transportation, returns 1,310 pilgrims

148 total views today
By Deji Abdulwahab
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has begun the inbound transportation of Nigerian pilgrims, with 1,310 of them already returned back home from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
A data released by Malam Shafii Mohammed, Principal Information Officer, NAHCON, said that four designated Nigerian Hajj air carriers recorded a total of four flights.
Mohammed said, “Maxair flight VM269 departed Jeddah to Bauchi at 08:07hrs with 551 pilgrims and seven officials.
“Flynas flight XY9006 departed Jeddah to Kebbi at 09:45hrs with 413 Kebbi pilgrims and six officials.
“UMZA flight UY3534 departed Jeddah to Abuja at 13:12hrs with 41 pilgrims and 122 officials.

“Airpeace flight APK7901 departed Jeddah to Owerri at 23:45hrs with 305 pilgrims and seven officials.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims performed the just-concluded 2025 Hajj. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
SRADev unveils 5-year Plastic Audit Report, urges action against top polluters
Environment

SRADev unveils 5-year Plastic Audit Report, urges action against top polluters

135 total views today

By Fabian Ekeruche

The Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria) has released its five-year Plastic Brand Audit Report, spotlighting top corporate plastic polluters in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Brand Audit which was unveiled at a media event in Lagos, is part of activities to commemorate the 2025 World Environment Day.

Speaking at the event, Dr Leslie Adogame, Executive Director, SRADev Nigeria, said that over 11,000 plastic waste items were audited across six communities, revealing that food and beverage packaging—particularly PET bottles and sachet plastics—accounted for up to 99 per cent of pollution.

He noted that plastic pollution had escalated beyond an environmental issue to a public health crisis, linking it to cancer, hormonal disorders, and respiratory diseases.

He commended the Lagos State Government’s planned ban on single-use plastics, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, but urged for a broader scope that included PET bottles, nylon bags, and water sachets, which remained under-regulated.

“Top polluting companies must go beyond pledges and take measurable steps to reduce single-use plastics.

 “We urge them to reveal their plastic footprint, reduce production, and reinvent packaging to be reusable,” Adogame said.

SRADev called on the media to amplify awareness, drive public discourse, and hold corporate polluters accountable.

NAN reports that the audit was conducted under the global ‘Break Free From Plastic’ movement and contributes to international efforts for a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian ihechu

Army injects 6,195 fresh combatants to enhance operational readiness
Defence/Security

Army injects 6,195 fresh combatants to enhance operational readiness

150 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army is set to inject 6,195 fresh regular combatants into its fold to enhance strength and operational readiness.

The fresh combatants are members of the 88 Regular Recruit Intake (88RRI) who commenced training at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria on Jan. 13 and have completed the six months rigorous military training.

A total of 6,450 candidates commenced the training in January but 255 could not complete the training.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, is expected to be the reviewing officer at the passing out parade of the new regular combatants who are expected to boost the manpower needs of the army.

These new recruits are expected to be deployed to the various theatres of operation across the country to combat the existential threats in the country.

They will undergo some kinds of specialised training that would prepare them to function effectively in their various areas of responsibility. (NAN)(www.nanmews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

 

UNICEF commends Zamfara Govt. for maintaining zero polio status
Health

UNICEF commends Zamfara Govt. for maintaining zero polio status

165 total views today
By Ishaq Zaki
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended Zamfara government and other stakeholders for maintaining a zero polio virus in the state.
The officer in charge of Sokoto UNICEF Field Office, Isah Ibrahim, gave the commendation during a media dialogue on Polio Outbreak Response Campaign, in Gusau.
“On behalf of the UNICEF Nigeria, I want to congratulate the Zamfara government for sustaining a major milestone in the fight against polio for 20 months without a single case of the virus.
“Let me thank the efforts of Gov. Dauda Lawal, Ministry of Health and Primary Health Care Board (PHCDB) for maintaining the success.
“We also appreciate support from other stakeholders, particularly the media for the kind support during the April polio vaccination round,” he noted.
Ibrahim said that UNICEF was working towards reaching every child with the oral polio vaccine and ending polio virus transmission by 2025.
“We are back today to seek your support for the June polio vaccination campaign that will commence this Saturday.
“Our goal is to reach every child in the state with the Oral Polio Vaccine,” he said.
Ibrahim added that the menace of polio virus had been making children crippled for centuries until the Oral Polio Vaccine was discovered.
“I urge the media to help us reach every single caregiver in the state with the message to come together to retain Zamfara as a zero polio virus state.
“We also have the Day of the African Child coming up on June 17.
“We hope that Zamfara will be able to mark the day to tell the world that it has successfully vaccinated all the children below the age of five against polio virus in this campaign,” he urged.
The UNICEF chief called on caregivers to allow their children be brought for the administration of the oral polio vaccine at the doorstep of their houses.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner of Health, Dr Nafisa Maradun, assured government’s continued commitments in maintaining free polio status in the state.
Maradun commended the partners, particularly UNICEF for their contributions, which she said, led to the success of free polio status recorded in the state.
The commissioner also commended local government council chairmen for their support to polio immunisation campaign.
Maradun also appreciated the support from traditional and religious leaders in the state.
She urged parents to present their children below five years of age for the polio vaccination exercise. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Victor Adeoti/Muhammad Lawal
ECOWAS Court tasks law students on strengthening jurisprudence
Foreign

ECOWAS Court tasks law students on strengthening jurisprudence

150 total views today

By Mark Longyen

The ECOWAS Court has called on West African universities’ law students participating in its inaugural Moot Court competition to deepen their jurisprudence and regional legal frameworks understanding to become better lawyers.

Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, President of the Court, represented by Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, the Chief Registrar, threw the challenge to the participants during the orientation session of the moot court.

He explained that the orientation programme was an opportunity for the students to also better understand the court’s mission and mandate by interacting directly with the court’s personnel at all levels.

“It is an opportunity for you to better understand the mission and mandate of the ECOWAS Court, to deepen your engagement with regional legal frameworks, and interact directly with the Chief Registrar, the directors, the lawyers of the Community Court of Justice, the Excellencies, judges, and fellow law students.

“As future advocates, judges and policy makers, your participation in this Moot Court reflects a shared dedication to upholding justice, fostering regional cooperation, and advancing  legal excellence across West Africa.

“As we commence this interactive session, may it inspire collaboration, stimulate critical thoughts, and reinforce the vital role of justice in building a peaceful and unified West Africa,” he said.

The Community Court President said that he was very impressed by the law students’ legal arguments, court cases, and all their demonstrations during the opening session of the moot court competition.

According to him, their sterling performance gives the court joy and hope that the future generation is moving forward to perhaps do more than what they are doing today.

He said the orientation session was pivotal to provide participants with more clarity about the court, while their presence demonstrated a shared commitment to excellence, dialogue and the advancement of regional jurisprudence.

“Now, we wish that you keep it up in order to ensure that you have a bright  legal career after your legal  studies in the university,” he added.

Also speaking, Mr Ghislain Agbozo, ECOWAS Court’s Principal Research Officer, gave a presentation to clarify the court’s Jurisdiction, Protocol, Articles, Access, and Admissibility, among others.

He explained that the ECOWAS Court has  one Protocol, which was  adopted on the 6th of July, 1991, and was amended  on the 19th of Jan., 2005 as its Supplementary Protocol.

Agbozo said that Article 9.4 of the court’s Protocol regarding jurisdiction on human rights cases stipulates that the court has jurisdiction to determine cases of violation of human rights that occur within any member state’s territory.

He further explained that in human rights cases, the court lacks jurisdiction to entertain a dispute  between individuals, that is, an individual suing another individual, as well as non-state actors like corporations.

“First, the source of human rights obligation within ECOWAS is the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights  and the human rights instrument adopted under the auspices of the United Nations to which member states are parties.

“The court has jurisdiction over the member states if It has signed a supplementary protocol  of 19th January 2005 and has ratified the universal  or African human rights instruments invoked.

“Only member states can be brought before the Court of Human Rights violation because member states are the sole parties to the regional and the universal instruments which the court has jurisdiction over,” he said.

On admissibility, he explained that the pendency of the same suit before a domestic court or an international court of equal jurisdiction cannot oust the court’s competence to determine the case on alleged human rights violation.

“The court also has consistently held its position that there is no need to exhaust local remedy before bringing an action before the court,” Agbozo stressed.

Mr Yusuf Danmadami, ECOWAS Court’s Senior Legal Officer, described the court as the principal judicial organ of ECOWAS, which was established to ensure the interpretation and application of the ECOWAS Treaty.

He said the court represented a significant achievement in enhancing West African and African regional integration framework, having established itself as an institution for protecting human rights, and promoting the Rule of Law.

“The mission and vision of the court is to remain an independent, reliable, efficient, and accessible legal and judicial institution of the community playing a strategic role in establishing, sustaining and enabling the legal environment for the achievement of community aims and objectives.

“Now the mission of the court is to remain an independent, reliable, efficient and accessible legal and judicial institution of the community playing a strategic role in establishing a sustaining and enabling legal environment for the achievement of community  aims and objectives,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that four Nigerian universities qualified for the semi-final round of the moot court competition which was due to take place later on Friday.

They are the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, the University of Jos, the Lagos State University and the University of Uyo.(NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland
General News

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland

142 total views today

By Abiodun Lawal

Hon. Gboyega Isiaka, House of Representatives member, representing Yewa North/ Imeko Afon Federal constituency was on Saturday, installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland by Yewa Muslim Community Organisation.

In his acceptance speech at the turbarning and conferment ceremony held in Imeko Afon, Isiaka expressed gratitude to the League of Imams and Alfas of Yewaland for counting him worthy of the noble responsibility.

He noted that the title was rich in spiritual significance and historical depth.

The lawmaker pledged to lead by example in faith, to support the Ummah in truth and to recommit himself to the advancement of Islam in the region.

According to him, the essence of faith is service to Allah, describing Islam as a complete and beautiful way of life, whose principles are based on truth, justice, compassion, and accountability.

“If we claim to be faithful, we must also be useful. That is the foundation upon which I embrace this role.

“Today, as I accept the title of Seriki Adinni of Yewaland, I do so with the full consciousness that titles may decorate a person, but it is service that dignifies the title,” he said.

Isiaka, the Chairman, House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, stated that religion plays a crucial role in national growth and development, adding that religion should unite and not divide us.

“We must ensure that we continue to preach unity through religion. We are united by the fact that we want development as a country.

“We are united by the fact that we want progress. We are united by the fact that we want a greater Nigeria. Whichever religion you practice is your choice,” he said.

In his remarks, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun explained that the recognition of Isiaka by Yewa Muslims community was timely and richly deserving.

Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele , opined that the newly installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland exemplifies humility, integrity and discipline.

“He has remained a dignify ambassador of Imeko, Yewaland and of Ogun West grounded, principle and always committed to the progress of his people.

“As the Seriki Adinni , I have no doubt that he will bring qualities to strengthen unity and spiritual growth of the Yewa Muslim community, ” he said.

Dignitaries at the event included members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers and Islamic religious leaders. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

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