The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, (AHF) and some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have called for a readjustment of the current draft of the WHO pandemic agreement particularly in developing nations.
They specifically called for the readjustment of the draft of the World Health Organisation (WHO) pandemic agreement to strengthen the international community’s ability to detect and respond to future pandemics threat in developing nations.
They made the call while addressing newsmen in Abuja ahead of the finalisation of the WHO agreement Draft in May 2024.
Dr Echey Ijezie, Country Programme Director, AHF, said that the proposed text had been significantly watered down through the negotiation process and is filled with platitudes, anaemic in obligations, and devoid of any accountability.
“We expressed profound concern that developed nations have vehemently defended the private interest of pharmaceutical companies over the collective common interest of achieving global health security in a sustainable and equitable manner.
“Such disregard has been observed in the proposed compromise for the WHO Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System, which the Lancet has described as not only “shameful, unjust, and inequitable” but also “ignorant.” he said.
Ijezie added that to ensure its objectivity and effectiveness, the agreement should consider establishing an independent oversight body that is “politically, financially, technically and operationally independent of the WHO and donors.”
“Compliance, however, has been largely ignored by all parties and brushed under the rug throughout the negotiations.
“This is reflected in the current text, which does not mention the word compliance even once.”
“To this end, we echo the concerns of the Panel for a Global Public Health Convention that the idea of a Compliance and Implementation Committee should not have been dropped from the text,” he said.
He also added that the current text did not include effective engagement with CSOs and other nongovernmental actors in the agreement.
Also, Dr Abdulkadir Ibrahim, National Coordinator Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NEPWHAN), noted the role of CSOs as critical partners to global responses on pandemics and related issues.
“We are calling on WHO to restore the position of the civil society strongly and urgently with clear engagement and define the core role that the CSOs will put in place as we move ahead in putting the agenda for pandemic preparedness.
“The value it will add, will help in demand creation to sensitise, educate and empower people with knowledge about some of these things and what happened in the past, where we are and where we should be going,” he said.
Also speaking, Rommy Mom, the President Lawyers Alert, said pandemic responses should be “Right based” where the world can implement Rights policies especially in the global south.
Mom called for compliance and monitoring.
“When-we approach the issues of pandemics, low-income countries find it difficult to access drugs because people can’t afford them.
“But if we look at it from a human rights angle, people should have access to lifesaving medications,” he said.
Hajia Hauwa Mustapha, Deputy National Chairperson, Alliance for Covid-19 and Beyond and Focal Person, Climate Change, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), explained that pandemics do not occur overnight.
“And one of the key processes that leads to some of the health pandemics we witness in the world is climate change.
“So it is important for us, while addressing pandemic as an immediate emergency, to also engage the causative factors, which is climate change and specifically about what we produce and consume.”
Amber Itohan-Erinmwinhe, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Network of Religious Leaders Living with and affected by HIV/AIDS (NINERELA+) suggested that the core role of CSOs should be repositioned and re-defined in the engagement of pandemic responses.
Mrs Chizoba Ogbeche, Vice President, Zone D, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, (NAWOJ), stressed the need to protect women and children against pandemics or any harm. (NAN)
Mr Ali Khwaja, Chairman of KTrade Securities, a Pakistani-based stock and commodity outfit, has predicted a decline in U.S. dollar value globally in the coming years.
Khwaja made this known on Thursday during a virtual analysis of the KTrade Securities research report.
He attributed restrictive fiscal policy to have contributed to decline of dollar value in the mid- and long-term in 2023.
“This includes a surge in the U.S. fiscal deficit and depletion of surplus savings: the projection indicates slowdown in growth as business investment weakens, ultimately affecting the U.S. economy,” he said.
This, according to him, is because direct and secondary sanctions implemented by the U.S. administration increased the risks of holding assets or raising finance in dollars.
“The use of the U.S. dollar as a tool to print money or control its reputation comes at the risk of the Global South.
“Its usage to implement sanctions has been the most damaging factor, as 28 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the world is under sanctions.
“This is big enough for these countries to start thinking about using their own currency,” he added.
He explained that People’s diminishing confidence in the prospective decline of the USD could go along with hiking gold prices.
On treasury bills, the chairman said the U.S. Treasury’s funding of pandemic-related deficits contributed to the policy mix.
“T-bill issuance has increased by 125 per cent since 2019 and reserve balances are up by 118 per cent, and the Fed’s target rate is 125 per cent higher than in 2019.
“Therefore, interest payments on T-bills and reserve balances, together, are putting pressure on the U.S. economy.
“This will prompt the Fed to ease its stance over monetary policy in the next couple of years”, he quoted the report as saying.
Khwaja further said that due to depreciation of dollar, emerging economies stood to benefit, while financial mechanisms and investments may shift towards longer-term bonds.
He restated the need for cautious market navigation, urging investors to consider alternative avenues and be vigilant of broader economic trends amid decline in dollar value. (NAN)
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has inducted desk officers to improve service delivery across FCT public primary and secondary schools.
FCTA Head of Civil Service, Dr Udo Atang, said during the induction in Abuja, that the move was part of ongoing efforts to deliver quality services to residents of Abuja.
Atang, who was represented by a director in his office, Mrs Funmilayo Kayode, described the initiative as a crucial milestone in the administration’s efforts to transform the education sector.
This, according to him, will make FCT schools more competitive.
“The new desk officers are expected to be at the forefront of improving services in FCT schools.
“They will play a critical role in realising the vision of establishing a world-class city where quality services are accessible by all.
“This is a significant step in the FCTA’s commitment to strengthen good governance through improved education service delivery in FCT schools.”
He urged the desk officers to be dedicated to their duties, while reiterating the FCTA’s commitment to recognising and rewarding hard work and excellence.
“The Annual Staff Recognition and Award is one of FCTA’s ways of recognising hard work. I, therefore, urged you to distinguish yourselves and you will be recognised and rewarded,” he said.
Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer, SERVICOM, emphasised the importance of continuous capacity building to ensure quality service delivery.
Akajemeli urged the FCT Administration to fully support service improvement processes in schools to reap the benefits of quality human capital.
“This will be achieved through training and retraining of staff, to ensure sustained quality service delivery and effective management of customer experiences,” she added.
In his remarks, Mr Prosper Ibe, the Permanent Secretary, FCTA Education Secretariat, described the induction as a milestone in the ongoing efforts to elevate the quality of education in the FCT.
He encouraged the desk officers to uphold the principles of accountability, transparency, and integrity. (NAN)
‘Up NEPA’, a documentary that chronicles the lingering challenges of electricity supply in Nigeria has premiered in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that filmmakers, industry stakeholders, representatives of relevant institutions and electricity consumers were present at the screening of the film on Thursday night in Abuja.
The documentary is produced by Griot Studios, a multimedia company acclaimed for producing and distributing content with socio-cultural effects towards a better society.
‘UP NEPA’ probes Nigeria’s unreliable power supply and its impact on individuals, Businesses and the economy.
The film brings to the fore broad challenges facing the sector, including poor electricity policy implementation, regulatory uncertainty, gas supply challenges, transmission system constraints and corruption, among others.
The film features special guest stars including veteran Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw and ace rapper Jude Abaga, popularly known as MI, among others.
Industry experts such as Patrick Okigbo, Bart Nnaji, Alex Okoh, and Rahila Thomas and other stakeholders were also interviewed in the documentary.
It also features interviews with everyday people, including cold store owners in Ibadan, plastics manufacturers in Aba and Kano and healthcare workers in Lagos.
Ishaya Bako, Director of film, said it was shot in various locations across Nigeria and was released in partnership with ‘The Electricity Hub.’
Bako, renowned for directing award-winning documentaries like “Fueling Poverty” and “Silent Tears,” said the “UP NEPA” project took over two years for its completion.
“I am grateful to be able to share this film with an audience which it has been many years in the making.
“The documentary provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges of providing adequate, and sustained electrical power to Nigeria’s growing population in spite being one of the world’s largest primary energy producers.
“It also examines the historical changes and government reforms within the power sector while anticipating future developments.
“I am particularly grateful to the MacArthur Foundation, for their support in producing the film, and our hardworking team at Griot Studios, who have persevered to ensure this project becomes a reality,” he said.
Earlier, Ummi Yakubu, Executive Producer of “UP NEPA” and Creative Director of Griot Studios, told NAN on the sideline that the project was conceived to stir discussions towards finding lasting solutions to Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
“This is an issue that affects the quality of life, from every aspect of it, whether it is healthcare, business, the quality of life generally.
“It is important to note that economic development and growth cannot take place without consistent and reliable power supply.
“We are hoping that the average Nigerian will watch this and understand what is going on in the power sector and understand who the key players are.
“They will also understand how power actually gets generated, all the way to coming down to us being able to switch on our sockets and get power,” she said.
NAN reports that the premiere included an interactive session between industry stakeholders, special guests and electricity consumers.( NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Obstetric fistula, a global affliction disproportionately affecting women in low-resource countries, continues to devastate lives.
According to experts, obstetric fistula, is an abnormal opening between a woman’s genital tract and her urinary tract or rectum.
Primarily striking young, impoverished women lacking adequate medical care, the condition manifests in urinary or faecal incontinence, leading to social isolation and rejection.
The World Health Organisation estimates that more than 2 million young women live with untreated obstetric fistula in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
While surgical intervention offers hope, research on outcomes remain limited, underscoring the imperative for preventive measures.
For over two decades, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has spearheaded the Global Campaign to End Fistula, operating in 55 countries with a holistic approach encompassing prevention, treatment, survivor reintegration, and advocacy.
Grounded in human rights principles, this initiative strives for equality, participation, and accountability.
According to the National Institutes of Health, in sub-regional analysis, West Africa had the highest successful surgical closure rate for obstetric fistula, with 91.74 per cent of the global total, while Central Africa recorded the lowest rate at 84.04 per cent.
Also, the successful surgical closure rate of Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) with unknown urinary incontinence status varied widely across African countries, ranging from 63 per cent in Eretria to 100 per cent in Liberia and Nigeria.
The pooled estimated rate of successful closure of VVF with unknown incontinence status from 55 articles is 86.31 per cent.
In spite of the progress, achieving the 2030 goal of eliminating fistula requires intensified efforts.
In Tanzania, obstetric fistula remains a poignant reality, with approximately 3,000 cases annually.
Yet, stories of resilience emerge, exemplified by survivors like Mrs Anastasia Beni-Majasho, at 29 years old, developed obstetric fistula during a difficult childbirth after losing her second child.
Beni-Majasho faced social stigma and isolation until she discovered the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT), providing holistic fistula treatment and support services.
Through surgical intervention, counseling, rehabilitation, and skills training, she embarked on a journey toward recovery and empowerment, benefiting from a supportive community of healthcare providers and fellow survivors.
Another inspiring story is that of Mrs Sofia Mwema, who sought solace at CCBRT after enduring 19 years of social isolation due to obstetric fistula.
Through comprehensive care, including surgery, counseling, and skills training, she regained physical health, confidence, and purpose, becoming a beacon of hope for her community.
For 70-year-old “Mama”, who shares her daily struggle to overcome the suffering caused by injuries sustained during childbirth, the determination is to ensure that no woman is left behind.
She recalled how the only child she gave birth to caused her severe injuries, resulting in incontinence, and later died.
This left her ostracised by her husband and community. However, surgery provided the only cure that restored her confidence from obstetric fistula.
CCBRT, led by CEO Dr Brenda Msangi, has transitioned from a community-focused NGO to Tanzania’s leading provider of disability and rehabilitation services.
Msangi emphasised safe childbirth as a fundamental right, ensuring CCBRT facilities were accessible and staff are trained to offer compassionate care to all expectant mothers.
Highlighting the distressing statistic of an 85 per cent fatality rate for babies during obstructed labour, she said that CCBRT offered hope by providing free childbirth services to alleviate anxieties.
She dispelled misconceptions surrounding fistula, adding that it is a medical condition, not a curse.
“Through a comprehensive approach including eye surgery, prosthetic limbs, and physical therapy, CCBRT transforms lives daily.
“The organisation addresses prevalent myths, financial constraints, and cultural barriers hindering women from seeking help for fistula, offering education, free surgery, and transportation assistance through a network of community ambassadors,” she said.
She commended Tanzania’s progress in maternal healthcare under President Samia Hassan’s leadership, highlighting CCBRT’s community outreach programs like the Mabinti Centre, empowering fistula survivors through skill-building and economic independence.
With continued support, she believed these programmes could significantly enhance the lives of women across Tanzania.
Tanzania’s approach to combating obstetric fistula offers valuable lessons for other countries.
The emphasis on community-based rehabilitation and holistic care, as demonstrated by CCBRT, highlights the importance of addressing not only the medical aspects of fistula but also the social, psychological, and economic dimensions.
NAN Health correspondent and Mrs Anastasia Beni-Majasho, at the CCBRT in Tanzania.
By providing comprehensive support services, including counseling, skills training, and reintegration support, Tanzania demonstrates how a multi-dimensional approach can enhance the well-being and dignity of fistula survivors.
Furthermore, Tanzania’s commitment to promoting safe childbirth as a human right, as advocated by Msangi, underscores the importance of ensuring universal access to quality maternal and obstetric care.
By prioritising accessibility, equity, and compassion in healthcare delivery, Tanzania sets a precedent for other countries striving to improve maternal health outcomes and prevent obstetric fistula.
Meanwhile, Nigeria grapples with a significant burden of obstetric fistula, with an estimated 400,000 to 800,000 affected women and inadequate surgical capacity exacerbating the backlog of untreated cases.
According to Dr Fatima Ahmed, an obstetrician, addressing this challenge demands a comprehensive response, encompassing political commitment, evidence-based policies, preventive initiatives, and robust healthcare infrastructure,
Ahmed said that Nigeria’s efforts to end obstetric fistula included implementing a National Strategic Framework for elimination, capacity building for healthcare workers, community outreach programmes , collaboration with NGOs, and legislation and policy reforms targeting factors contributing to fistula.
She said that by investing in healthcare infrastructure, engaging communities, and advocating for women’s rights, Nigeria aimed to prevent fistula and improve maternal healthcare nationwide.
She added that other African countries can learn from Nigeria’s experiences by adopting national strategies tailored to their contexts, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and engaging communities through awareness campaigns.
The obstetrician recommended educational programmes, enacting and enforcing laws and policies to protect women’s rights, and fostering partnerships and collaboration between governments, NGOs, and international agencies.
In spite of the notable rate of successful closure of obstetric fistula in Africa, a considerable proportion of women still experience residual or persistent incontinence.
Experts say successful surgical closure rate of combined VVF and RVF still falls significantly below the recommendation set by WHO.
Dr Na’ima Idris, a Kano-based reproductive health expert, said that implementing a comprehensive package of fistula care through a dedicated fistula facility or a mobile surgical outreach programmes , holds promise in addressing this issue on the continent .
Addressing this challenge will help Africa in its efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal No 3 which entails ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
Idris said that ensuring increased access to timely and high-quality fistula treatment, along with comprehensive post-operative care, was essential for achieving high success rates and reducing residual incontinence among women with fistulas in Africa.
As the world unites in the fight against obstetric fistula, the voices of survivors like Mama, whose resilience embodies hope, echo with resilience and determination.
Through collective action, advocacy, and investment in healthcare systems, the African continent can pave the way for a future where no woman suffers the indignity of obstetric fistula, where every childbirth is safe, and where every woman receives the care and support she deserves. (NANFeatures)
**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Thursday said that the survival of any country depends largely on its ability to confront any security threat.
Musa said this in his remarks at the opening of the 13th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), holding in Abuja.
Represented by Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onumajuru, Chief of Training and Operations, the CDS noted that in recent times, the global security environment has become more volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, requiring more resilience and dynamic approach to address.
He added that the security challenges Nigeria had dealt with over the years have negatively impacted the social, economic and other issues on citizens.
According to him, these challenges include terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, transnational crimes and other social vices.
”The novelty and dynamic nature of these, underpins the requirement for a comprehensive approach to address them. A comprehensive approach begins with collaboration among stakeholders to enable us effectively address a continuously evolving threats within our country.
”As such, efforts of all forms will be required to address these challenges appropriately.
”It is also important to mention that the armed forces of Nigeria consider it a priority to secure the territorial integrity of our country by land, sea and air’’.
The CDS said priorities would continue to be put in ensuring peace and security of the country.
”Despite the efforts of the military so far, the security challenges between our borders still persist. This means that notwithstanding the successes already achieved in various sectors of operation, there is still much more to be done.
”Equally, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has come to appreciate that owing to the complex and unique nature of security threats in contemporary times, there is need for all stakeholders to work together.
”This is because no single service or agency can effectively address this threats alone.
”Moreover, these security challenges have become increasingly diverse and unconventional, thus the need for a forum where we will collectively resolve to provide valuable insights and perspectives’’, he added.
Musa expressed confidence that the seminar would be fruitful and rewarding, as the forum was aimed at promoting social, intellectual and professional interaction on security issues towards enhancing the security of the country.
”The expectation is that our collective discussions will generate a common understanding of pressing security challenges and enable the exploration of innovative solutions to ensure a safe and prosperous future for all Nigerians.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the seminar has the theme ‘ Curbing Oil Theft and Illegal Crude Oil Refining In Nigeria’. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The International Monetary Fund(IMF) says determined and well-sequenced implementation of government’s policy intentions would pave the way for faster, more inclusive, resilient growth in Nigeria.
The IMF said this in a statement at the conclusion of its Executive Board’s 2024 Article IV Consultation with Nigeria, a copy of which was obtained by the New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.
The Board of Directors of the IMF said the government’s reforms had to be well-communicated to also help restore macroeconomic stability, reduce poverty, and support social cohesion.
The Directors highlighted the importance of reforms to enhance the business environment, improve security, implement key governance measures, develop human capital, boost agricultural productivity, and build climate resilience.
“These reforms are crucial to boost investor confidence, unlock Nigeria’s growth potential and diversify the economy, and address food insecurity, and underpin sustainable job creation.”
They said over the last decade, limited reforms, security challenges, weak growth and now high inflation had worsened poverty and food insecurity in Nigeria.
“While Nigeria swiftly exited the COVID-19 recession, per-capita income has stagnated.
“Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth slowed to 2.9 per cent in 2023, with weak agriculture and trade, and in spite of the improvement in oil production and financial services.
“ Growth is projected at 3.3 per cent for 2024 as both oil and agriculture outputs are expected to improve with better security. The financial sector has remained stable, in spite of heightened risks.
“Food insecurity could worsen with further adverse shocks to agriculture or global food prices.
“ Adverse shocks to oil production or prices would hit growth, the fiscal and external position, and exacerbate inflationary and exchange rate pressures.”
The directors said Nigeria, under its new administration, had set out on an ambitious reform path to restore macroeconomic stability and support inclusive growth.
“The Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal and welcomed the bold reforms implemented by the new administration.”
They commended the authorities’ focus on revenue mobilisation, governance, social safety nets, and upgrading policy frameworks in the face of Nigeria’s significant economic and social challenges.
The directors commended the administration’s’ actions to rein in inflation and restore market confidence.
They stressed the importance of keeping a tight monetary policy stance to put inflation on a downward path, maintaining exchange rate flexibility, and building reserves.
The directors recommended caution regarding amendments to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act that might weaken the central bank’s autonomy.
They also commended the authorities for restarting the cash transfer programme and emphasised the urgency of scaling it up to mitigate acute food insecurity.
The directors welcomed the administration’s work on a comprehensive revenue mobilisation strategy including boosting tax enforcement and broadening the tax base.
They underscored that mobilising revenue and reprioritising expenditure, including phasing out costly and regressive energy subsidies, were critical to creating fiscal space for development spending and strengthening social protection while maintaining debt sustainability.
The directors appreciated the authorities’ commitment to discontinue deficit monetisation and positively noted progress in macroeconomic policy coordination.
They emphasised the importance of close monitoring of financial sector risks.
The directors supported the increase in the minimum capital for banks and urged the CBN to unwind the regulatory forbearance introduced during the pandemic.
They supported the administration’s efforts to foster financial inclusion and deepen the capital market.
The directors welcomed the IMF’s capacity development to support the Nigerian authorities’ reform efforts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has restated its commitment to enhance production of Nigeria’s branded products, technology transfer domestication, commercialisation and stimulation of indigenous socio-economic advancement.
Its Executive Vice Chairman, Mr Khalil Halilu, said this on Thursday while unveiling NASENI’s branded products at the agency’s quarterly media briefing in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new products include car battery, laptop, smartphone and Solar-powered street light.
Halilu said that the feats were recorded in line with the agency’s 2023-2027 strategic launchpad to fit into the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the present administration.
He said the launchpad was to enhance Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity, reduce the country’s import bill, reposition the agency to leverage on the comparative advantage of the 36 states.
The NASENI boss disclosed that the agency was working assiduously to bring in more products to create a national brand that every Nigerian would love to see.
He said that the agency embarked upon in its launchpad to improve the livelihood of Nigerians and foster national development.
“What we are trying to do is to open our doors to people that will contribute to our activities and development of our nation.
Halilu said that the areas of focus of the strategic launchpad were agriculture and food manufacturing, defense and aerospace, sustainable transportation and mobility.
He said others included renewable energy and sustainability, health and biotechnology, information technology and software, construction and smart city.
NASENI boss also presented the agency’s proposal evaluation portal, a website for those who intend to work with the agency.
He said the NASENI Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) would soon be launched for task tracing within the agency.
He said that the agency’s e-procurement portal, an initiative in the launchpad, was to enhance transparency.
According to him, the NASENI youth empowerment programme consists of schemes with the prospect of creating 18,000 direct jobs.
He said the vehicles to drive the project included skills acquisition centres, trainings, stem box innovation hub and campus.
The EVC said the work of Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) and the Delt-Her initiative programme was geared towards encouraging female participation in the engineering sector.
He added that the agency also trained 20 Nigerian engineers in Indonesia on equipment fabrication under the agency’s full acquisition saputra coal fertilizer project among other ongoing achievements.
NAN recalls that in February, the agency launched three sets of its branded products which were solar powered irrigation system, electric motorcycles and tricycles, and off-grid solar home systems. (NAN)(www nanwews.ng)
AGN National President,Emeka Rollas(right) presenting appointment letter to Kenneth Ifekudu as national patron of the guild.
Patron
By Joshua Olomu
Actors Guild of Nigeria (NAN), the umbrella body of Nollywood actors, has announced the appointment of business mogul, Kenneth Ifekudu, as its National Patron.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that National President of AGN, Emeka Rollas, made the announcement in a statement on Friday.
According him, Ifekudu’s appointment was in recognition of his passionate contributions to the growth and development of the creative economy and his philanthropic gestures.
Rollas stated that “the Board of Trustees and the entire AGN members have presented a letter of appointment as National Patron to a successful businessman and Managing Director/CEO of Diamond Leeds Ltd, High Chief Kenneth Ifekudu.
“The appointment is in recognition of his contributions to the growth and development of national economy, especially in areas of infrastructure, hospitality, support to humanity and exceptional leadership qualities.
“It is our intention to confer few selected distinguished individuals from across the nation who have given invaluable support to humanity and national economy over the years with national patron,” he said.
According to the AGN helmsman, Ifekudu has graciously accepted the responsibility and pledged his goodwill and best assurances to contribute to the growth and development of the guild.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
TotalEnergies Nigeria has launched the 2024 Startuppers Challenge, which aims to reward 100 entrepreneurs across 32 African countries.
The Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Dr Samba Seye, announced this at the virtual launch of the fourth edition of the challenge on Thursday.
According to him, the 2024 edition is in commemoration of the company’s 100th anniversary celebrations and open to young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 with a business creation project or startup under three years old.
He said that the challenge, which is in three-prize categories: Innov’Up, Cycle’Up and Power’, has a monetary award of N8 million, personalised support and a communication campaign to enhance the project’s visibility.
The managing director explained that a local jury comprised of experts, business leaders, startup ecosystem participants, local sustainability stakeholders and representatives from TotalEnergies Nigeria will select three winners.
Seye said that each winner of the challenge would become a ‘Startupper of the Year by TotalEnergies’.
“The new edition kicking off today reaffirms TotalEnergies’ commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship and supporting the socio-economic development of African countries in which the company is present.
“The challenge strengthens the social fabric in local communities by helping the continent’s most innovative entrepreneurs carry out their projects,” he said.
In her presentation, General Manager, Country Service, TotalEnergies, Mrs Adesua Adewole, said Africa was special to TotalEnergies, hence the focus.
Adewole stated that registration for the challenge would open on May 13 and close on June 18.
Adewole added that 100 startups would be selected at first while 15 finalists would emerge.
The general manager said: “In December, we will have 100 businesses to celebrate in Africa.
“In past edition, we had only six winners who were invited to Paris. But this year, we will have 100 winners who will be going to selected location where they will be celebrated.
“Africa is special to us. When you look at Africa, our youths make up 60 per cent, they are the ones who will develop the continent,” she said.
According to her, in all, 365 winners selected from 40,000 applications received have been rewarded and supported worldwide since 2015.
For the 2024/2025 edition of the challenge, Adewole said the local jury would select three winners that would emerge as follows : Innov’Up winner, for the best entrepreneur, Cycle’Up winner, for the best project relating to the circular economy
Also, Power’Up winner, for the best project relating to sustainable, affordable energy, while four additional projects in the Power’Up category will be selected by an international jury.
Commenting, the Country Communications Manager, TotalEnergies in Nigeria, Dr Charles Ebereonwu, said the energy company was targeting startups that are less than three years old for the challenge.
Ebereonwu stated that the firm also focus on startups pioneering a business idea with a positive impact on their communities and/or the planet.
He explained that apart from the startupper challenge and commemoration of the firm’s 100 years, TotalEnergies has introduced new dimensions.
Ebereonwu said all the project entries will be assessed against four criteria.
These, he noted, include: relevance to sustainable development challenges, innovation
feasibility and development potential and respect for gender equality and inclusion of women in the project
Also, a past winner of the challenge, Mr Nonso Opurum of SOSO CARE, a low-cost insuretech that aims to use recyclable garbage as a financial resource, highlighted how winning the challenge impacted his business.
Opurum confirmed that the programme had been transformative to the businesses of all the past beneficiaries.
“It provided not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical know how. It is a great opportunity to learn, unwind and get capital for business,” he said.
TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
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