NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

Media group applauds impact, N760bn private investments in CNG

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The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has applauded what it described as the multi-faceted impact of the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Chukwudi Enekwechi and Secretary Shedrach Sunday, the group acknowledged the inflow of N760 billion investment into the CNG initiative.

“We note that with the removal of fuel subsidy at the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, and the attendant increase in cost of premium motor spirit, the Federal government rolled out the Compressed Natural Gas Initiative.

It said that this has led to cheaper cost of transportation for many Nigerians as CNG continues to take root in the country.

It stressed that the initiative had attracted about N760 billion in private investments into the venture in the past one year.

It added that in dollars terms, the initiative has attracted about $491 million investment into the country, and there are signs that more investments would flow in subsequent years.

“Additionally, the CNG Initiative has generated 84,000 direct and indirect jobs, and this is based on information provided by the PCNGI Programme Director, Michael Oluwagbemi.

“We also note that within a period of one year, CNG conversion centres have increased from seven to over 200 centres across the country with expectations of an increase to 10,000 by the end of the first quarter of 2005.

The media group commended the Federal Government for providing 405 buses to ease the transportation needs of Nigerians workers.

It said this was based on an agreement with Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress during the wage increase negotiations.

“We want to state that this initiative is not only pragmatic, but has potential to reduce unemployment, boost the economy, and increase the mobility of Nigerians when it takes firm root.

“We, however, urge the managers to do more because of the immense benefits of the CNG-Initiative which, if harnessed well, will put smiles on the faces of Nigerians,” it added.

TMV also noted that it looks forward to the extension of the CNG initiative to 25 sites and 15 states in line with the pledge of the managers of the programme to ramp up its activities.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

General News

NUJ to sponsor media welfare enhancement bill

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By Joan Nwagwu

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to sponsor the Media Professionals Welfare Enhancement Bill aimed at improving the welfare of its members.

The National President of NUJ, Mr Alhassan Abdulahi, said this during the 2025 Easter Cantata Concert held in Abuja on Tuesday

The concert organised by the NUJ FCT Council, is themed, “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformation Power of Unity and Progress.”

Abdulahi said that senior colleagues within the profession were working on a media enhancement bill that would soon be presented to the National Assembly for consideration.

He expressed hope that if the bill were passed, it would mark a new beginning for journalism in Nigeria, with improved remuneration for journalists.

He also urged journalists to reflect spiritually during the Easter period and adopt a spirit of forgiveness.

Additionally, he appealed to journalists to prioritise national unity and security issues to ensure a peaceful Nigeria.

Rep. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, emphasised that NUJ plays a crucial role in the Renewed Hope Agenda, which sought to transform Nigeria into a unified and prosperous nation.

He commended the current administration for its efforts to drive economic development and create a hopeful future for the country.

Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) emphasised the importance of journalists embodying the values of unity and transformation in their reporting.

Ali was represented by Mr Kayode Olaitan, Director of Planning Research and Statistics at NAN.

Ms. Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT, highlighted that unity was a key driver of progress and urged journalists to use their unique role to share stories that inspire, educate, and unite communities.

Ike said that unity was a catalyst for progress, as it was the foundation on which progress was built.

“It is the glue that holds us together, allowing us to face challenges with strength and resilience.

“As journalists, we have a unique role in promoting unity by sharing stories that inspire, educate, and unite our communities,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Foreign

Touray tasks ECOWAS media excellence award jury on thorough job

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By Mark Longyen

ECOWAS President, Dr Omar Touray, has urged members of the jury, who are assessing various entries submitted by journalists for ECOWAS’ 50th Anniversary Media Excellence Award to do a thorough job.

Touray gave the charge at the opening ceremony and commencement of deliberations of the ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards 2025 Jury Deliberation Meeting, on Wednesday, in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event with the theme: “50 Years of ECOWAS – Honouring the Voices That Tell Our Story,” is the maiden edition of the awards.

He reminded the members that their inclusion in the jury was a testament to their dedication, expertise, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism in the subregion.

Represented by Mr Mambureh Njie, his Special Advisor on Economic Affairs, Touray said the awards were not mere accolades but part of a legacy, which ECOWAS was building for the next 50 years in West Africa.

“As you undertake this responsibility, I encourage you to uphold the highest standards of evaluation guided by the principles of objectivity, impartiality and let merit lead the way.

“You should painstakingly assess and approach each entry with fairness, consistency and regional perspective to honour contributions that uphold ECOWAS’ shared values.

“Ethical responsibilities reward journalism rooted in truth and integrity. Excellence in craft recognises storytelling that informs, inspires and transforms,” he said.

Touray noted that over the last 50 years, the media had been a strong partner and pillar in ECOWAS’ journey toward promoting democracy, good governance, peace, security, and regional integration.

He said that as ECOWAS marked 50 years of existence, it was only proper to recognise and celebrate journalists who reported its challenges, championed its successes, and gave it a voice.

“The ECOWAS Media Excellence Award, launched as part of our golden jubilee celebration, is more than a recognition of journalistic achievement.

“It is a reaffirmation of our commitment to fostering a free, dynamic, and responsible media landscape, which promotes regional integration, democratic governance.

“One which promotes a free, dynamic, and responsible media landscape and celebrate those who report with integrity, accuracy, and courage,” he said.

Speaking earlier on behalf of other members, Mr Abdoulie Gassama, the chairman of the jury, promised to approach the task before them with diligence, impartiality, and deep respect for the work.

Gassama said that the responsibility of being tasked with recognising and celebrating journalists who demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and commitment to their craft was very significant.

“We all dedicated our careers to holding the highest standards of journalistic integrity, creativity, creative excellence, and impactful storytelling.

“The submissions we are about to review represent the best of media industry. They showcase the power of media to inform, inspire, and challenge.

“They demonstrate the dedication of journalists, producers, and content creators to bring important stories to the light, to foster dialogue, and to uphold power to account,” he said.

Gassama said that the core principles that would guide the jury’s assessment of the entries for the awards would be impact, integrity, innovation, accuracy, fairness, ethics and craftsmanship conduct.

Mr Joel Ahofodji, ECOWAS spokesman, in an opening remark, explained that the jury was responsible for examining, assessing, and selecting the best submissions in each category: television, radio, print, online, and photography.

He said that the jury would also ensure that selection process was fair, transparent, free of any conflict of interest, respect the confidentiality of the deliberations and suggest the modalities  for future regulations of the award.

NAN reports that the jury comprises Gassama from Gambia as chairman alongside Paul Douakoutche from Benin; Ms Filomena Silva from Cape Verde; and Mr Bamba Mafoumgbe from Ivory Coast as members.

Other members are Dr Ibrahim Awal from Ghana; Mrs Yemi Kolapo from Nigeria; Dr Adrienne Diop from Senegal, who is a former spokesperson of the ECOWAS Commission.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

Ritual killings: Media executive seeks urgent protection for girls

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By Folasade Akpan

Mr Sunday Oyinloye, Publisher of Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable, has called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders to take decisive action against the rising incidents of ritual killings of girls across the nation.

 

Oyinloye made the appeal on Tuesday in a statement issued to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in response to the recent killing of Yetunde Lawal, a final-year student of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin.

 

Lawal was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend, Abdulrahman Bello, whom she met on social media.

 

Oyinloye emphasised that the rise in such incidents not only puts Nigerian girls at risk but also damages the nation’s image internationally.

 

He attributed the growing frequency of these crimes to the failure of the government at all levels to effectively address the issue.

 

He noted that many Nigerian youths have abandoned legitimate means of wealth acquisition, turning to ritual killings, which he described as gradually becoming normalised in the country.

 

Oyinloye revealed that his organisation launched a campaign against ritual killings in January 2022 and had continued this effort independently over the past three years.

 

In spite of the lack of support, he affirmed that the organisation remained committed to the cause.

 

“When we started this campaign in 2022 and released a jingle, the then Minister of Information, Mr Lai Mohammed, assured that the Federal Government would initiate a widespread anti-ritual killing awareness campaign.

 

“However, nothing has been done since then,” Oyinloye said.

 

He added that the organisation’s efforts include translating the jingle into the three major Nigerian languages and airing it on local radio stations to reach grassroots communities.

 

Oyinloye stressed that the fight against ritual killings must also involve traditional and religious leaders, who he urged to speak out against the practice.

 

He called on Nigerian youths to reject the temptation of seeking quick wealth through violence and instead embrace hard work and legitimate business opportunities.

 

“It is tragic that innocent girls are being murdered, and their body parts sold at absurd prices.

 

“Taking someone’s life for money rituals is both inhumane and misguided,” he said, further urging youths to abandon the evil practice and focus on honest work.

 

He also advocated for the implementation of the death penalty for those convicted of ritual killings, without the possibility of prison sentences.

 

Oyinloye commended the Nigerian police for their efforts in tackling ritual killings and called for greater public support in the fight against this heinous practice.

 

Additionally, he lauded the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for issuing a directive condemning ritual killings and encouraged other traditional leaders to follow suit in protecting Nigeria’s image. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Solutions Journalism

Solutions Journalism: NAN vows to change media landscape

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By Ahmed Musa

Malam Ali Muhammed Ali, the Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), has expressed the agency’s determination to sustain efforts in changing the media landscape in the country.

 

Ali said this on Thursday in Abuja when he received a delegation from the Nigeria Health Watch (NHW) led by Mr Chibuike Alagboso, its Director Media Programmes.

 

According to him, the agency will continue to join efforts by pushing stories that will promote the needed solutions to societal problems.

 

He said, ”NAN will continue to appreciate the partnership with the Nigeria Health Watch and Solutions Journalism Network which began in 2020.

 

”We are sustaining the effort of changing the media landscape with Solutions Journalism stories.

 

”Its unique style of telling the positive developments in the country aligns with the NAN mandate of promoting understanding, mutual respect, professionalism and giving voice to the majority and minor views of the citizens.”

 

The managing director also informed the visitors that the agency had earlier created a special desk to handle Solutions Journalism stories with a view to enhance specialisation and boost productivity in the agency.

 

”We have created a Solutions Journalism desk since the first engagement with Nigeria Health Watch in 2021 and the message will continue to be propagated to all our members of staff,” he said.

 

According to him, Solutions Journalism has a critical role to play in the nations journey to realising the impact of small achievements on national development.

 

“It highlights the little efforts put in to address daily social challenges of citizens.

 

”This is what is needed to build trust and buy-in from people about steps taken by the government to address their problems,” he added.

 

On his part, the Editor-In-Chief of NAN, Mr Mufutau Ojo, while declaring open the One-day training session, urged participants to pay attention to the keynote speakers and learn the new skills.

 

Ojo expressed optimism that the training would provide a paradigm shift and new opportunities for reporters to explore.

 

Also speaking, the Head of NAN Multimedia Section, Mr Ismail Abdulaziz, expressed gratitude to the team for providing the opportunity for NAN reporters to be trained.

 

Abdulaziz commended the reporters for showing exemplary attitude based on the questions raised during the training season.

 

”This shows that you understood the topic, now it’s just to know how to put your thoughts into Solutions Journalism style of writing,” he said.

 

Mr Aderogba George, one of the participants who spoke after a session, said that the training would avail him the opportunity to understand how to write Solutions Journalism stories.

 

Others in the delegation of Nigeria Health Watch (NHW) are Kenneth Ibe, Senior Social Media Coordinator, Tzar Oluigbo, Health Journalist and Hadiza Mohammed, Communication Officer.

 

The delegation was in NAN Headquarters to train reporters on Solutions Journalism based on the existing partnership they had with NAN since 2020. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

edited by Stanley Nwanosike/Ismail Abdulaziz

Economy/Business

NBS commits to sustained collaboration with media, CSOs

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says it is committed to sustained collaboration with the media and civil society for effective communication of statistical data.

Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation and CEO of the NBS said this at a Retreat for Journalists and Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) in Keffi on Friday.

Adeniran, who was represented by Dr Biyi Fafunmi, Director, Agric and Business Enterprise, NBS, said the media and CSOs played an indispensable role in national statistics production.

He said the media and CSOs served as a bridge between statistical agencies and the public.

Adeniran said the media served as both facilitators and disseminators, influencing the way statistical information was collected, interpreted, and communicated to the public.

“In reporting, we recognise you as a partner in progress; we urge you to be objective and patriotic in reporting our data as disseminated by NBS.

“By facilitating communication, promoting understanding, and fostering accountability, the media not only enhance the credibility and relevance of national statistics but also empower citizens to appraise more meaningfully with the data that shape their lives.

“As technology and media landscapes continue to evolve, the role of media in this context will continue to expand.

“This will require ongoing collaboration between NBS, the media, and innovation to ensure effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases”.

Adeniran commended the media and CSOs for their role in making NBS improve in data deliverables in spite of the challenges they encountered in their daily endeavours.

Mr Joel Ichedi, the Bureau’s Director of Communication and Public Relations, said the objective of the retreat was to equip journalists and CSOs with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate statistics to the public.

“We recognise that the media and civil society play a critical role in shaping public discourse and holding institutions accountable.

“However, we also acknowledge that reporting on statistics can be complex and nuanced.

“This retreat aims to bridge the gap between data producers and data users, ensuring that statistical information is accurately conveyed to the public.

”Our team of experts will provide insights into the latest developments in statistics production, data sources, and methodologies”.

Ichedi emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure statistical information was presented concisely and without bias, thus avoiding misinformation and enhancing public understanding.

Ewache Ajefu, Editor, Business Africa who spoke on behalf of the media, thanked the NBS for organising the retreat, adding that it should be sustained.

Johnny Emmanuel, National President, National Council for CSOs,  commended the NBS on its role in improving the economy and the country through its production of accurate and timely data.

Emmanuel stressed the need for collaboration between the media and civil society noting that CSOs could not achieve their mandate without the media.

NAN reports that there was a business session on Trends in  Development Journalism, Consumer Price Index and GDP Rebasing Update, and Compilation of Trade Statistics.

Other sessions include Methodology for Generating Labor Force Statistics in NBS and A Critical Appraisal of Statistical Reporting and Data Interpretation by Journalists. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

General News

Why media must embrace innovation- NAN MD

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By Mufutau Ojo

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, has called on media owners to embrace innovation in their editorial operations.

 

Ali made the call on Tuesday in a goodwill message at a retreat organised by the management of Voice of Nigeria (VON) in Abuja.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retreat had as theme: ” Voice of Nigeria in the 21st Century : Restrategising for Global Impact.”

 

According to Ali, the theme of the retreat is apt given the myriads of challenges facing the Nigerian media.

 

He identified the challenges to include limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, widespread disinformation as well as limited access to digital technologies and internet connectivity.

 

“These are benumbing challenges, but certainly not unsurmountable if we deploy our creative ingenuity and will power, ” he added.

 

He recalled the two retreats organised early into the life of his administration, saying they defined the direction of management’s programmes.

 

“One telling lesson from both retreats we had was the inevitability of innovation in an increasingly shrinking media space marked by convergence and Artificial Intelligence.

 

“Indeed, we dare say that the future is already here! We must hearken to the clarion call: “Innovate or die!,” he said.

 

He urged participants at the retreat to ruminate on strategies that will put VON in sturdy position for global impact.

 

Ali also called on participants to “think outside of the box, innovate without restraint and collaborate seamlessly to ensure a positive outcome.”

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

General News

Media experts to harness AI for broadcasting transformation

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By Taiye Agbaje

Media experts have converged as part of efforts to revolutionalise the broadcasting industry by harnessing the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Women Radio 91.7FM, Toun Sonaiya, made this known at an AI Radio Summit organised in Lagos and monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) virtually in Abuja.

The summit, titled: “Smart Radio: Leveraging AI for Next-Gen Broadcasting,” also had a sub-theme: “An intersection of AI and Future of Radio Broadcasting in Nigeria.”

The event, which was organised by Women Radio in partnership with Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), was also to unveil an AI generated radio host called, “NIMI.”

Sonaiya, while speaking, said the programme was aimed at unlocking the future of radio broadcasting as the experts explore how AI could enhance audience engagement, streamline audio content production and boost operational efficiency through smart editing and data analysis.

“For me, as I reflect on the remarkable progress of Women Radio 91.7FM, I am reminded of my own journey growing up without mobile phones and the internet.

“And I am trilled by the possibilities AI brings. At Women Radio 91.7FM, we have intentionally embraced this new era with our team, not only welcoming new innovation but leading it.

“We are leveraging AI in presentation, voice overs, news editing, content creation and automation.

“We are re-emerging radio to connect with our audience.

“As a pioneer in AI Radio broadcast, our mission is to inspire others into AI skills.

“AI Radio is the future and the future today is now,” she said.

Sonaiya urged media practitioners to embrace AI for sustainable innovation and growth, and to unlock the future of radio broadcasting.

Adedeji Adekunle, the Programmes Director, Nigeria Media Innovation Programme, who spoke virtually, said AI affects the experience of the staff in an organisation and also provides opportunity for business as media entrepreneurs to be enriched.

“If you are a radio or broadcast professionals here or a business owner, you have to consider what AI can do for you,” he said.

Adekunle urged media practitioners to explore various uses of AI and how they affect the experience of their audience.

He, however, called for an internal, organisational AI policy to guide how the practitioners work due to privacy concerns.

“Let’s put together policy that enhances our work and protects the integrity of what we do,” he added.

Stellamaris Okebu, the Business Programme Manager, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, enumerated the benefits of AI.

She said AI would help to analyse one’s data and to know who the listeners are, their age group and how to serve them best.

“It can also help you to analyse trending topics on radio

“Generally from a technology perspective, AI basically helps us to enhance our jobs.

“It will help us significantly for the next generation to get job done quickly, easier and to be more efficient,” she said.

Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Media and Publicity, said AI radio summit represented a significant milestone in the industry.

“It brings together passionate individuals and organisations dedicated to pioneering advancements in the world of broadcasting

“Women Radio 91.7FM has demonstrated remarkable commitment to harnessing the power of the artificial intelligence for social impact .

“The introduction of ‘NIMI’ AI, Nigeria’s first AI radio host and interactive virtual assistant, is a clear testament to the limitless potential of AI in enhancing how we engage with our audiences and deliver compelling content.

“‘NIMI’ AI not only represents technological innovation but also serves as role model for what can be achieved when creativity meets technology,” he said.

Akosile said he believed that the summit would delve into important discussion surrounding AI ethics and the opportunities that it presents toward ensuring a more inclusive and more innovative radio industry that prioritises the needs and voices of all community members.

He said Lagos State had invested heavily in a smart city project which is aimed at transforming the entire technology ecosystem from what it is today to what everyone desires.

The governor’s side, who commended Women Radio, said the state was ready to partner with the radio station for a better future and development of the ecosystem.

“Therefore, let us leverage AI boundless potential to  transform  the landscape of Nigeria radio broadcasting for the better,” he said.

NAN reports that the event was attended by many media professionals, including the CEO of CJID, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Foreign

Chinese media experts urge mutual cooperation in Sino-African exchange

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By Halima Sheji

A Chinese teacher, Prof. Zhang Genfu, has underscored the need for mutual cooperation through China-Africa media exchanges to advance the Sino-African modernisation.

 

Zhang, a Deputy-Director of the Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) Affairs Committee, made the call during the inaugural ceremony of the Seminar for Omni-media journalists from English-speaking African countries in Jinhua city, China.

 

He said that the 10 partnership actions announced by President Xi Jinping at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing elevated Africa-China relations to new heights.

 

Zhang said, “China has always been a country of action and always done what it says. We believe that in the foreseeable future, China-Africa relations will deepen and cooperation in economy, trade, culture and other fields will be closer.

 

“I sincerely hope that through this Seminar, we can strengthen exchanges with you, enhance the understanding of Chinese and African media friends in the language and culture.

 

“Also, strengthen news and cultural exchanges, jointly promote the high-quality development of media undertakings of the two sides, inject new connotation into China-Africa friendship and write a new chapter.

 

“Let us move towards each other with mutual support and empowerment, jointly advancing the modernisation of China and Africa, and together achieving a bright future.”

 

He said that the visit of the participants councides with the autumn season when the eyes of the world focused on China-Africa.

 

“2024 FOCAC Summit held in Beijing in September and the Heads of State, Heads of Government, Heads of Delegation of China and 53 African countries, and the Chairpersons of the African Union (AU) Commissions met in Beijing to draw new blueprint for development of Africa-China relations.

 

“Now we welcome media friends from 11 countries, including Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Zambia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Benin and Nigeria. This is the epitome of China-Africa comprehensive cooperation and friendship,” he added.

 

He described ZJNU as an institution with disciplines such as Mathematics, Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science, Environment/Ecology, Computer Science, Zoology, Animal and Plant Sciences, and General Social Sciences in the top 1 per cent of Employees State Insurance (ESI) globally.

 

He added that the university had cultivated not less than 400,000 talents of all types for the society since its founding 68 years ago, and established cooperation and exchange relations with 280 institutions of higher learning in over 60 countries and regions.

 

Chen Yan, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Jinhua Municipal City, urged the journalists to explore the media exchange platform to garner relevant knowledge towards deepening China-African relations.

 

Chen said, “This year, numerous foreign journalists visited Jinhua. They explored the local markets, industries, countryside, cultural sites and conducted comprehensive reporting on the city.

 

“Notably, Brazil’s flagship Media Group and the ‘Review’ press crew filmed the ‘Watch China Together’ programme in Jinhua. These related reports were then featured as a series of special topics in Brazil, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.

 

“In May this year, 28 journalists from 27 African countries came to Jinhua and published 72 articles, introducing the colorful Jinhua to the world.

 

“In July, we held a special ‘overseas universities’ media workshop for Young media professionals from the “Belt and Road” countries, attended by 69 media professionals from 18 countries, all of which are vivid manifestations of the international communication of the Belt and Road Golden Hub.”

 

Meanwhile, Mr Lassana Tunkara, Deputy General-Manager of QTV/QRadio in The Gambia, spoke on behalf of the journalists saying the seminar titled: “Journalism organisation and news media for Belt and Road Initiative countries”, saying it would enable them advance international best practices in media operations.

 

Tunkara said, “This seminar presents an extraordinary opportunity to broaden our understanding of global media landscape, particularly within the context of Chinese media experience and our primary goal should be to explore how media can act as catalyst for international collaboration and development.

 

“We are enthusiastic about diving into the dynamics of vibrant Chinese media landscape with social and new media transforming the way we share and consume information across the world.

 

“Understanding this trend is essential for shaping media in Africa, especially as we navigate the fast-evolving digital environment. We look forward to learning about business management and how sustainable models can empower media organisations to thrive in competitive markets.”

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Jinhua is a prefecture-level city in central Zhejiang Province in eastern China that has jurisdiction over nine counties cities and districts with an area of 11,000 square kilometers and a permanent population of 7.16 million people. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

General News

Sanwo-Olu, others praise philanthropist over NIJ media centre

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday inaugurated a 350-seat media resource centre donated to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) by business mogul and philanthropist, Dr Kesington Adebutu.

 

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, inaugurated the centre  at the NIJ, Ogba, Lagos.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Kesington Adebutu Media Resource Centre is to provide journalism students with access to state-of-the-art equipment, resources and technology to enhancing their learning experience.

 

Sanwo-Olu said at the event that the state government would continually identify with, and support, causes  that would improve journalism practice.

 

He thanked Adebutu, popularly known as Baba Ijebu,  for the donation.

 

“I thank Baba for putting this here, for being futuristic about the profession of journalism and sparing a thought for this very important aspect of nation-building,” he said.

 

Chief  Olusegun Osoba, Chairman of NIJ Governing Council and former Governor of Ogun,  described Adebutu as a great Nigerian and philanthropist.

 

He praised Adebutu’s commitment to civic responsibilities.

 

“After the building was completed, Baba Ijebu sent another N23 million and said we should use it to furnish the place.

 

“That  is why I am saying we are celebrating a great Nigerian, a philanthropist of the first order.”

 

Osoba also praised the project contractor, describing him as dedicated individual.

 

“This place was built in five months, we thank Are Gbogbogbo. He made this project as if it was his own personal project because Baba Ijebu didn’t have time to be coming.

 

“The contractor did not use the money for birthday celebration; he used it to buy everything needed –  cement, roof, blocks, tiles, iron rods and others.”

 

Mr Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, in his remarks, said that the centre would be of tremendous value to journalists and other users.

 

He described Adebutu as a partner in education development, saying that his gesture demonstrated support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to provide access to education for all.

 

In his remarks, Adebutu expressed hope that the resource centre would boost journalism practice in Nigeria.

 

He said that the donation was in line with the objectives of the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which he founded.

 

“I feel a sense of pride to be associated with this project as the donor.

 

“In essence, it is to give back as much as possible to the society, from what God, in his unquantifiable goodness, has favoured me with,” he said.

 

In  a goodwill message, on behalf of the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, veteran journalist, Mr Ray Ekpu, described the resource centre as a transformer.

 

According to him, it will help the NIJ to do better.

 

“Journalism is not speculation, rumours. It is  a profession with code of ethics. Truth-telling is its article of faith.

 

“Media professionals do not need handcuffs, they need training, more training. They need support, more support.

 

“That is what will add more oxygen to our democracy and country,” he said.

 

He  called on other philanthropists to identify with NIJ to make it a legendary trainer of journalists. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

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