UNICEF, NGE Call for Policy Shift to Save 4.9m Nigerian children

The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, in collaboration with the Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, have called on journalists in the country to transform the lives of the nation’s 110 million children and ensure they live a productive life. 
UNICEF’s representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, at a symposium with the theme "Reinforcing the Role of Media in Mainstreaming Child Rights," put together by UNICEF Nigeria in collaboration with NGE, the Diamond Award for Media Excellence on Saturday, in Lagos, stressed the need for the media to use it's power to influence policy, change public perception and spur urgent action to changing the narrative.
Cristian Munduate, who quoted statistics which says that nearly half of Nigerian children live in poverty, with 67 percent experiencing multidimensional deprivations such as malnutrition, lack of education, and inadequate healthcare; additionally, 2.1 million children remain unvaccinated.

  " 4.9 million need urgent humanitarian aid, and three out of four children in school are failing to meet basic literacy and numeracy standards ". She stated
According to her, " Media can drive change by keeping children’s issues at the top of the national agenda," she said.
She stressed that journalists need to move beyond reporting daily events to deliberate, sustained advocacy that holds stakeholders accountable, including the federal and state governments, religious and traditional leaders, and families. " You are uniquely positioned to inform and equip these stakeholders with the tools to protect children’s rights,” Munduate
She citing instances where the media had put in it's best to include ensuring that government took pragmatic steps at protecting children from harsh judicial punishments. 
The UNICEF boss charged media organizations to celebrate progress and positive developments for children while maintaining a focus on the urgent need for reforms in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. “Childhood is short—just 18 years. The changes we make today are the only ones that matter for these children", " The media has the power to create a sense of urgency and push for the immediate actions that children cannot wait for,” she stated.
Munduate urged the media to foster competition among states to discourage open defecation and improve access to food and education, adding that amplifying solutions and inspiring collaboration will go a long way in changing the narrative for Nigerian children and help secure their future.
On his part, the president, Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, Mr. Eze Anaba, want media practitioners to take a more proactive role in advocating the rights and well-being of Nigerian children, underscoring the urgent need to address pressing issues affecting children, including malnutrition, low enrollment in school and vulnerability to preventable diseases.
He said and I quote, “Children in Nigeria are still dying from diseases that have been eradicated elsewhere or for which vaccinations are available", This situation according to him, demands a collective effort from media practitioners, health workers, policymakers, and the government to declare a state of emergency for children and place them at the forefront of national priorities," he stated.
Anaba who expressed dismay at the numerous problems children face in Nigeria, where half of the 220 million population are underage, noted that, millions of children are out of school, subjected to abuse, child labor, and early marriages, while others face violence and recruitment as child combatants in conflict-affected regions. 
“These statistics are not just numbers, they are stories of children whose rights are being denied and whose dreams are deferred,” Anaba lamented.
He urged his colleagues to strive at solution based reporting such as, successful child-friendly policies and community-driven stories that will bring hope to the people. 
" The importance of celebrating progress alongside addressing challenges is key ". pointing out that, “Partnering with development organizations like UNICEF can provide data and tools to strengthen advocacy. " We must commit to actionable steps, whether through investigative reports, collaborations with NGOs, or dedicated platforms for child rights," he noted.
The symposium brought together people from all walks of life including, senior government officials, media practitioners, advocates, and stakeholders, united in their commitment to creating a society where every child can thrive. 

The NGE President urged journalists and editors to wield their storytelling power to inspire and drive societal change. “The media is not just a passive observer of society but an active participant in shaping norms and influencing policies. We must uncover and amplify the voices of the voiceless and pressure policymakers to act,” he stated.
In the words of Nelson Mandela, “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way it treats its children.” advising the media to become the conscience of society, using its platforms to prioritize education, healthcare, and protection of all Nigerian children.
The programme featured three sections of panel discussions that explained in detail the paper presented to the better understanding of those present and the reasons why all hands must be on deck to save the Nigerian child.

Comrade Alhassan Yahaya emerges as NUJ President, pulling 436 votes to beat his opponents.

Comrade Alhassan Yahaya has emerged the new National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ.

Alhassan pulled a total of Four hundred and thirty six votes to defeat his rivals Comrade Bamidele Atunbi former Treasurer of the Union who got 97 votes and Comrade Garba Mohammed who scored 39 votes.

The election was conducted at the 8th Triennial Delegates Conference of the Union held in Owerri Imo State which brought together Six hundred and two delegates from the State Councils in the Country.

Comrade Yahaya who is from Gombe State was before his emergence the Deputy National President of NUJ .

Also elected but unopposed was the Deputy National President, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, General Manager Bronze FM, Radio Nigeria and a former BOT of the Union.

Dr Oyetunde by this feat is the First Female Deputy National President of NUJ.

Other National Officers of the Union were unopposed including the National Treasurer Comrade Victor Ndukwe who was the former Abia State Council Chairman.

The election conducted amidst tight security had Comrade Mike Ikeogwu as the Chairman of the Electoral Committee.

Meanwhile, a cross section of States, Councils and individuals have sent congratulatory messages to the newly elected national officers.

From Lagos, the NUJ State Council, Mr Adeyeye Ajayi congratulates the President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, the Deputy President, Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, National Financial Secretary Samuel Dada, and other members of the Central Working Committee on their election.

The Chairman who described the victory as a well-deserved one, expressed optimism that the union under the new leadership will flourish beyond the giant strides attained under the immediate past administration.

" We also urge you to hit the ground running with your laudable programmes". 

" We wish the Immediate Past President, Chief Chris Isiguzo an elevation to a higher pedestal ". Ajayi said

Burna Boy is allegedly using the police to intimidate Speed Darlington following the singer's recent arrest.

Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has claimed that popular Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, is behind the recent arrest of fellow artist Speed Darlington. 

Adeyanju stated that Burna Boy is responsible for the harassment Speed Darlington has faced from the police. He expressed his thoughts on X, saying, “Burna Boy is behind the harassment of Speed Darlington by the police. This is someone who has been singing against oppression and presenting himself as a junior Fela, yet he is now oppressing Akpi.”

According to DAILY POST, the Imo State Command of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Darlington in Owerri, the state capital, while he was performing at a show. This arrest occurred shortly after he returned to Nigeria earlier in the week. 

Recently, Darlington was also arrested for alleged cyberstalking of Burna Boy. Initially detained in Lagos, he was later transferred to Abuja where he was held by the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team in the Guzape area of the city.

PRESS RELEASE:NNPC Ltd Reaffirms Progress on Port Harcourt Refinery and Addresses Misleading Claims.

The Board and Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) express heartfelt appreciation to Nigerians for their support and excitement over the safe and successful restart of the 60,000 barrels-per-day Old Port Harcourt Refinery. This achievement marks a significant step forward after years of operational challenges and underperformance.

We are, however, aware of unfounded claims by certain individuals suggesting that the refinery is not producing products. For clarity, the Old Port Harcourt Refinery is currently operating at 70% of its installed capacity, with plans to ramp up to 90%. The refinery is producing the following daily outputs:
• Straight-Run Gasoline (Naphtha): Blended into 1.4 million liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS or petrol)
• Kerosene: 900,000 liters
• Automotive Gas Oil (AGO or Diesel): 1.5 million liters
• Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO): 2.1 million liters
• Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): Additional volumes

It is worth noting that the refinery incorporates crack C5, a blending component from our sister company, Indorama Petrochemicals (formerly Eleme Petrochemicals), to produce gasoline that meets required specifications. Blending is a standard practice in refineries globally, as no single unit can produce gasoline that fully complies with any country’s standards without such processes.

Additionally, we have made substantial progress on the new Port Harcourt Refinery, which will begin operations soon without prior announcements.

We urge Nigerians to focus on the remarkable achievements being realized under the able and progressive leadership of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, and to support efforts aimed at delivering more dividends to the nation. Malicious attacks on clear progress only undermine the significant strides made by NNPC Ltd. and the country.

Let us move forward together in building a stronger and more self-sufficient energy sector.

Olufemi Soneye
Chief Corporate Communications Officer
NNPC Ltd.
Abuja

26th November, 2024

Yahaya Bello Appears Before EFCC Again

Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has once again responded to the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding allegations of misappropriation of funds.

Sources close to the EFCC inform us that Bello arrived at the agency's office with his lawyers on Tuesday morning, without the current Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo.

This follow-up appearance comes after a Supreme Court judgment dismissed the state's case questioning the constitutionality of the anti-graft agency.

According to reports, the former governor drove himself to the EFCC office in a black Hilux accompanied by his legal team. Last week, there were speculations about his visit to the EFCC, but the former governor's media aides did not respond to inquiries about these claims.

During the last court hearing on November 14, the EFCC requested an adjournment until tomorrow (November 27) in the new case it has filed against Bello, citing that the 30-day window for the previously issued summons is still ongoing. 

The EFCC also granted administrative bail to his co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, and requested an extension of time for the first defendant to appear.

STATE HOUSE PRESS REPRESENTATIVE TINUBU CELEBRATES THE REVIVAL OF THE PORT HARCOURT REFINERY AND DIRECTS NNPC LIMITED TO PROMPTLY REACTIVATE THE WARRI AND KADUNA REFINERIES.

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on the successful revitalization of the Port Harcourt refinery, marked by the official commencement of petroleum product loading on November 26, 2024.
The President acknowledges the pivotal role of former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the comprehensive rehabilitation of all our refineries and expresses gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank for its confidence in financing this critical project.
Furthermore, President Tinubu commends the leadership of NNPC Limited's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose unwavering dedication and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges to achieve this milestone.
With the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, President Tinubu urges  NNPC Limited to expedite the scheduled reactivation of both the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries. 
These efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration. 
The President underscores his administration's determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that cannot refine its resources for domestic consumption.
Highlighting the values of patience, integrity, and accountability in the rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure, President Tinubu calls upon individuals, institutions, and citizens entrusted with responsibilities to maintain focus and uphold trust in their service to the nation.
In alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on shared economic prosperity for all, the President reaffirms his administration's commitment to achieving energy sufficiency, enhancing energy security, and boosting export capacity for Nigeria.
Bayo Onanuga  
Special Adviser to the President  
(Information & Strategy)  
November 26, 2024

Benue Governor, FRCN Personnel Shine at Honourees at 2024 Nigeria Media Nite- Out Awards.

Right - Abiola PETERS, recipient of NMNA Legendary Reporter of the Year 2024 and General Manager, Bond FM, Princess Adenike Adegoke.

It was a roll call of the Creme de la creme, at the 18th Nigeria Media Nite- Out Award, NMNA, on Saturday in Ikeja, Lagos. 

Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Iormem Alia, was the face of the 2024 edition of the prestigious NMNA for Best Governor of the Year.

The NMNA also recognized personalities from all walks of life across the country.

Benue State Radio won the Best Radio Station of the Year, while the Television Station of the Year, was clinched by TVC.

Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Chief Mudashiru Obasa, was honoured as Media Friendly Speaker, alongside other political figures.

Media icon and spokesman of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr Reuben Abati together with his wife, picked prestigious awards respectively, alongside notable media personality, Citizen Jones Usen who recently celebrated fifty years in broadcasting.

Assistant Director News at Radio Nigeria's Bond FM, Lagos, Mr Abiola Peters was honoured as Legendary Reporter of the Year 2024, so also was Mr Segun Akioya, Head Presentation at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, National Broadcast Academy.

From Right -Awardees: Dr Reuben Abati, Engineer Olusegun Ladipo and wife;6th -Abiola Peters and 9th; Jola Afolabi.

Broadcast Engineer icon who retired from Radio Nigeria, Olusegun Ladipo and Producer, Miss Stella Olly were also honoured for their meritorious services in the broadcast industry.

In the words of Engineer Ladipo, 'I feel elated about this rare honour for technicians, stating how he made the feat of constructing 29 out of the 32 FM Stations Projects of Radio Nigeria many years ago and his design of the transmitter that served ECOMOG forces during the Liberia Civil War'.

Late Head of Hausa Service, Bond FM, Alhaji Issa Koko, was also conferred a Posthumous Award.

The theme of the 2024 Nigeria Media Nite- Out Award, 'Revolutionizing Nigeria's Food Security for the Next Two Decades'.

In their respective presentations, the keynote speaker, Mr Dideolu Falobi, and President of Nigeria Institute of Food Security and Technology, NSITF, Dr Bola Osinowo, both awardees, canvassed for concerted efforts of government and other stakeholders to achieve the 2024 target for eradication of post - harvest food losses through research, storage and other measures.

Convener of NMNA, Mr Sola Olugbemiro thanked God and partners for the success of the eighteenth edition of the award, with a promise to continue to recognize people who do exceptionally well, so as to inspire others.

Dignitaries at the event included Former Deputy Director News and Current Affairs, FRCN Headquarters, Mr Gbenga Onayiga and General Manager, Bond FM, Princess Adenike Adegoke.

"Medicine Shortage: An Urgent Call to Action – Yakassai Urges CEOs to Invest in Local Production"

Captains of industries in Nigeria, especially the pharmaceutical companies have been charged to look inwards and produce goods not just for local consumption but for Africa as a whole. 
With strict compliance with the directives of regulatory bodies like the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Nigeria would not only be a producer of drugs for local and AAfricanconsumption but will compete with the United States and Europe in the production and Exportation of drugs.

These were some of the issues that took centre stage in the Book launch of Pharmacist Ibrahim Ahmed Yakassai, titled, "Pharmaceutical Industry and Drug Production in Nigeria ".
Pharmacist Yakassai, who noted that the book is a call to a new beginning in the pharmaceutical production industry, called on investors to channel energy and funds to the production of drugs as medicine sufficiency is an emergency issue in Nigeria.
" I will invest monies realized from the book lunch in the rehabilitation of schools with emphasis on the education of the girl child ". Yakassai

Speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Prince Julius Adelusi Adeluyi, Former President of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria, urged Nigerian pharmaceutical industries to emulate countries like China and India in the local and mass production of drugs as "it will change the narrative in the pharmaceutical industry".
In his remark, President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, lauded the author's innovation, saying it is worthy of emulation. 

" This book will help policymakers and contribute to the progress of the Pharmaceutical Industry ". Ibrahim
Also at the event, the Director General, NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, challenged pharmaceutical companies to source raw materials for their drugs as it is an access point to quality products.
" Local manufacturing of drugs will not only boost the Gross Domestic Products, GDP but will reduce the rate of unemployment in the country ". Adeyeye
Dignitaries present at the event where former Governor of Kano State, former Minister of Education, Senator Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, Emir of Kano State, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate.

PLAN YOUR MOVEMENT, AS LAGOS ANNOUNCES DIVERSION FOR SATURDAY CAPITAL CITY RACE.

The Lagos State Government has announced that traffic will be diverted to accommodate the inaugural 10-kilometre Capital City Race, which will take place on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

During this time, the following route will be partially closed to vehicular traffic: starting from Shoprite Alausa Ikeja, traffic will move along Billings Way to Kudirat Abiola Way, Opebi Link Bridge, Opebi Glo Tower towards Allen Avenue, continuing to Allen Junction, GTBank on Adeniyi Jones, AP Filling Station on Oba Akran Avenue, and ending at the Samsung Authorized Service Centre, up to the Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym.

As a result, all junctions and intersections along the route from Shoprite Alausa Ikeja to the destination (Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym) will be blocked with barriers and monitored by personnel from LASTMA, NPF, FRSC, and LSNC to restrict access for other road users.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, advises motorists to be patient, as affected junctions will be intermittently reopened to allow access to other road users as the race progresses.

ADVISORY: Motorists are encouraged to remain patient, as the partial road closure is part of the traffic management plan for the first edition of the Capital City Race event in 2024.

NUJ Natl election holds as planned - Isiguzo assures delegates.... disregard fake news, as Industrial Court rules on injunction, Dec 13.

The National Industrial Court, Abuja Division has fixed December 13, 2024 for ruling in a matter challenging the conduct of the National Elections of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ.
The NUJ had fixed its 8th Triennial Delegates Conference for November 27, 2024 in Owerri, Imo State.
However, one Abdulwaheed Adubi had approached the National Industrial Court seeking to stop the election on the premise that the tenure of the present leadership of the union had lapsed since October 6th, 2024.
However, at the resumed hearing of Adubi’s application for injunction restraining the national leadership of the union from proceeding with the election, the trial judge, Justice Olufunke Anuwe had refused to grant intermediate order of injunction against the defendants but rather adjourned the matter to December 13 for ruling.
“This matter is adjourned to December 13, 2024 for ruling on the application for injunction,” Justice Anuwe noted, shrugging off all efforts by the applicant to secure an order of the court.
Counsel to the defendants, Patrick Ediale had earlier told the court that the National Executive Committee sought to be restrained by an order of court was not a body known to the Constitution of the NUJ.
He noted that rather what is created by the Union’s Constitution was the National Executive Council, adding further that the other bodies sought to be restrained by the order of court including the Central Working Committee and the Credential Committee, are bodies created by the Constitution of the NUJ but were not made parties to the suit of Mr. Adubi.
He therefore maintained that the court cannot make an order against a party that is not before it, adding further that the court cannot make an intermediate order of injunction when the powers of the court to adjudicate on the claims before it were being contested.
The defence counsel had equally argued in his affidavit 
that the Claimant (Mr. Adubi), who claims that he works for Money Central Newspapers, is not a legitimate member of the NUJ since the said Money Central Newspapers has no international standard serial number (ISSN) and thus does not exist.
“There will be more justice in refusing this application for the Claimant (Mr. Adubi) did not seek or resort to all or any internal mechanisms of resolving conflicts and disputes as provided in Article 7 (vi) (a) & (b) of the union’s constitution. 
“Under the constitution of the NUJ, it is only when the Central Working Committee is dissolved that the State Council Chairmen and Secretaries can take over and run the affairs of the 1st Defendant, NUJ.
Counsel to the claimant, Barrister Sarafa Yusuff had pleaded with the court to grant an intermediate order to prevent the Union from proceeding with her election next week.
Reacting to the Wednesday proceedings, the NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo thanked the Court for refusing to bow to the pressures from the claimant to grant an intermediate order.
The president said with the situation, the Union is not encumbered from proceeding with its triennial delegates conference by next week.
He therefore urged delegates to the conference to get ready for the event taking place in Owerri, assuring them that everything has been put in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
“Let nobody be deceived by what some people are spreading across social media platforms that the election has been postponed. That one is fake news. We are all aware of what fake news is doing to our media industry. Nobody is spared. Our people should just ignore it and get ready for our outing next week,” he said

Manufacturers and experts chart a fresh path to energy security.

As Nigeria power supply challenges persists,  the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, met with experts to sort out ways of changing the narrative bedeviling the manufacturing sector, due to the crippling impact of unreliable electricity on industrial operations.

At a Summit with the theme : " Power Supply Adequacy for Industrial Growth in Nigeria,”  put together by the Manufacturers Power Development Company Ltd, discussions spanned critical areas, including the adoption of decentralised energy systems, integration of renewable energy sources and the need for policy reforms to foster a more stable power supply ecosystem.

Emphasis was placed on building resilient energy infrastructures, optimising energy efficiency within manufacturing processes and exploring public-private partnerships to bridge existing gaps.

The collaborative approach highlights the urgency of mitigating energy constraints to unlock the sector full potential and drive industrial growth in Nigeria.

In his address, the President, MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the event marked a significant milestone in the collective quest for energy security and sustainable manufacturing practices, emphasising the commitment of the association to explore collaborative strategies that will enable manufacturers to reduce energy costs, transit to sustainable energy sources and comply with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards.

Meshioye noted that, energy security is not only good for the growth of a business but also a national priority, calling for support for the manufacturing sector which accounts for a significant share of Nigeria’s GDP, which is critical to economic development.

He reeled out some of the challenges disturbing the industry to include unreliable power supply, high energy costs and environmental concerns. “But we also see opportunities for innovation, job creation and sustainable growth.”

Mathew Edevbie, Group Managing Director, Income Electrix Ltd, spoke on challenges, prospects and strategies for sustainable energy as part of ensuring energy security for manufacturers in Nigeria; the holistic Energy cost reduction approach.”

" Nigeria currently faces a huge electricity supply deficit , which manifests in high energy demand, huge supply-demand gap, low grid capacity, adding that " with the cost of infrastructure development, the supply demand gap is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon " Edevbie

He noted that a limited supply from electric grid has forced industries to self generate electricity, explaining that, Nigeria incurs #26billion in economic losses due to electricity shortages.

Cruise Ni, Director of Huawei Digital Power, Nigeria, spoke on Technology Innovation for Steady Power Supply in Nigeria: Optimizing Africa economic potential, explained in details, the innovation and alternative energy supply to reduce manufacturing energy cost.

Ni pointed out that, in the past five years the cost of diesel average grid tariff, prices of batteries and solar panels went high, as such there was need for improvement in innovation and technology to meet the rising demand.

Managing Director and CEO, Association of Nigerian Electricity Distribution (ANED), Sunday Oduntan stated and I quote, " the country’s power infrastructure is outdated, under maintained and insufficient to meet the growing needs ".

According to Oduntan, transmission and distribution networks suffer from technical inefficiencies resulting from significant energy losses, adding that, investing in grid infrastructure, modern transmission and distribution networks will reduce losses and increase capacity.

Odutan suggested that, consumers, large population, manufacturers and industrial areas should have access, supporting the motion that power should be affordable to all.

Sherifat Oyediran, Lagos 

International men's day Celebrations.

International Men's Day (IMD) is celebrated annually on November 19th. The purpose of IMD is:

1. To honour the contributions and achievements of men.

2. To raise awareness about men's health, well-being, and social issues.

3. To promote positive male role models and masculinity.

Some themes and activities associated with IMD include:

Themes:

1. Men's mental health

2. Men's physical health

3. Fatherhood and family

4. Male role models and mentorship

5. Gender equality and inclusivity

Activities:

1. Charity events and fundraisers

2. Health screenings and check-ups

3. Panel discussions and workshops

4. Awards ceremonies for outstanding men

5. Community service projects

Ways to celebrate IMD:

1. Appreciate the men in your life.

2. Support men's health initiatives.

3. Engage in conversations about masculinity and gender equality.

4. Recognize male achievements and contributions.

5. Participate in IMD events and activities.

Some countries also observe additional days to recognize men, such as:

1. Father's Day (varies by country)

2. Son's Day (September 28th)

3. Boy's Day (May 5th in some Asian cultures)

Let's celebrate the positive impact men have on our lives and society!

Eagles to Keep Feet on Gas Pedal in Final AFCON Qualifying.

Super Eagles' interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has stated that his players will approach the match against Rwanda with professionalism.

Eguavoen’s side have already secured qualification to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to be hosted by Morocco.

The Eagles will host the Amavubi in their last qualifying game at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo today.

Despite the inconsequential nature of the game, the gaffer declared the Eagles will go for maximum points.

The game will kick-off at 5pm Nigeria time.

Top African Teams Gear Up to Women's AFCON 2024 Draw.

Super Falcon's group opponents will emerge  this Friday 22 November, when the draw for the Women Africa Cup of Nations WAFCON 2024 comes up in Morocco.

Continental football governing body CAF explained that the draw will hold at the Mohammed VI Technical Centre in Sale, Morocco. 

The event which will start at 20h00 local time (19h00 GMT) will be broadcast live on major broadcast channels across Africa and internationally, as well as, on CAF’s digital streaming platform, CAF TV.

The draw will determine the fate of 13 qualified top African teams with Nigeria's Super Falcons eager to reclaim the title after finishing 4th in the last edition also in Morocco.

To qualify for the upcoming tournament, Nigeria beat Cape Verde 7-1 on aggregate to land the the ticket.

The 13th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will take place from 5 to 26 July 2025 in Morocco.

South Africa are the current champions of the competition having won it on Moroccan soil in 2022.

UNICEF surpasses 7.5million target, trains 9million youths on skill acquisition

 "The future of any nation lies in the hands of its children and youth". To achieve this, there is the need to provide skills, opportunities, and a platform for engagement.

So says the United Nation's Children's Fund, UNICEF, Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, at the heal of the Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA), Public-Private-Youth-Partnership (PPYP) annual Steering Committee, which took place at the Airtel Headquarters in Lagos.

The essence was to celebrate three years of groundbreaking achievements and set ambitious targets for the future.

Cristian said, " we are not only changing individual lives but also shaping a brighter future for Nigeria."

INDTN Seeks Functional Infrastructure to aid asset integrity.

 Institute Non-Destructive Testing Nigeria, (INDTN), has said that Functional infrastructure is crucial for the optimum performance of industrial plants, manufacturing and for the provision of services that support the entire
the spectrum of economic activities and well-being for effective governance.
President of INDTN, Dr Adegbite Micheal, stated this at the Second National Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Non-Destructive Testing Nigeria (INDTN) in Lagos.
Dr Adegbite said INDTN is a “Learning
A community” that is “Solution Driven” would continue to improve the quality and constantly seek ways of ensuring asset integrity.
Speaking on the theme of the event “The Role of Non-Destructive Testing in Preserving
and Optimizing Critical National Assets and Infrastructures, the President noted that, " Nigeria is bewildered by a vast infrastructure deficit which is crucial for sustainable industrial growth and economic development".
This, according to him, was exacerbated by the frequent failures and collapse of the few existing assets, which are mostly aged and have contributed immensely to industrial growth and socio-economic relevance among the League of Nations.
Dr Adegbite stated "It is important to deliberate on issues and challenges eroding productivity,
performance efficiency, and nationhood, " workable solutions and bankable ideas and innovations are necessary as part of the communique ".    

 "Simple solutions that could be easily incorporated into existing
technical systems and structures are also anticipated, these will enhance the availability and reliability of infrastructure and improve safety and productivity," Adegbite noted.

"It is important to note that, the INDTN was admitted into the World Organization for Non-destructive Testing and the International Committee for Non-destructive Testing (ICNDT) in 2021."
"In collaboration with
the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) and with the support of other stakeholders, the “Guidelines for Qualification of Industrial Radiographers in Nigeria” have been prepared and will be ready
for implementation very soon."
Dr Adegbite pointed out that the Ministry of Labour and Employment, through the Directorate of Factories, had engaged the Institute (INDTN) in the formulation and implementation of “Regulation 21 of
the Boiler and Pressure Vessels Regulations, 2018” and “Regulations 35 of the Lifting and Allied Work
(Safety) Regulations, 2018”. 
While commending the members for their support for the success of the conference, the President urged the participants to explore the careers and enterprises in the inspection industry and non-destructive testing space for their benefit.
Director of Factories of the Federation, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mrs Adogu Lauretta represented by the Head of Factories, Lagos State Office Engineer Ajayi Sunday said, the current leadership led by President Bola Tinubu is passionate about revitalizing the economy by creating opportunities for improving national critical assets, and researching various sectors of the economy. 
Mrs Lauretta stated that" the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has taken steps in 2018 to develop the boiler and pressure vessel regulations which had controlled the practice on installation and testing of boilers, pressure vessels and other thermionic.
"Practitioners in Non-destructive testing are protected from exposures to unsafe conditions and hazards that are capable of causing large scale accidents, injuries, disasters and deaths."
The Director of Factories urged stakeholders to actively participate in the advocacy for the role of Non - non-destructive Testing in preserving and optimizing the use of national critical assets and infrastructure and contributing to the development of the nation's economy.
Mrs Lauretta added that by working together, they can ensure a safe environment for Nigerians to work, prevent workplace accidents and illnesses as well as promote a culture of safety and sound health at work. 
By Sherifat Oyediran,Lagos.

We Are Satisfied with Progress at the FIRS—House Committee on Finance.

The House of Representatives Committee on Finance says, it is pleased the level of progress made by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), promising not to withhold any support needed by the agency.

The Committee members, who were on oversight visit, held a meeting with FIRS management at the Revenue House in Abuja, on Tuesday, and also toured the agency’s permanent headquarters in the Central Business District currently under construction.

A statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, Dare Adekanmbi, said the Chairman of the Committee, James Faleke, who addressed newsmen after the tour, expressed satisfaction at the transformation in FIRS under the Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, and the increased tax revenue, pledging continued support of the Committee for the initiatives of the agency.

“For us, we can only commend the staff and Management of FIRS and of course the contractors for a job well done. "We have seen the quality work being done. They have designed it very well and when we asked them questions, they answered. We are satisfied. We say kudos to FIRS." 

The statement said and i quote, “We first went to the temporary building where the FIRS is using now and of course we met the Directors and everybody. Why we have taken time to come on oversight is to allow the Chairman to fully settle and we have seen the evidence that he has fully settled ". Adedeji

According to him, " His work is very smooth. We could see on the faces of that staff that they are also happy with what the Chairman is doing. We decided to come to the proposed permanent site ".

We have seen the progress so far. Like the architect said, the project began in 2011 and it will be completed next year.

“We expect that when that is done and the Nigerian Revenue Service bill is passed, it will be launched in this building and we expect more revenue to come to Nigeria.

On whether the Committee is encouraged to continue to support FIRS, Faleke said, “We have always supported FIRS. Our committee is the main committee. If we withdraw our support, there will be a collapse of the system. It isn’t about being encouraged; it is about us doing our job, to do what is right.”

The Executive Chairman of the FIRS, Zacch Adedeji thanked the Committee for their visit and support, stating that FIRS will continue to cooperate with the lawmakers to move Nigeria forward.

Lt. Gen Lagbaja's death a collosal lose- GOC 81 Division.

General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Farouk Minjiyawa has described  the death of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja as  a colossal loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation at large. 

Maj. Gen. Farouk Minjiyawa stated this when a group called, " Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security Agencies " paid him a courtesy visit in  his office in Lagos. 

Describing late COAS as a visionary leader, Maj. Gen. Minjiyawa noted that the legacy of the deceased officer would  linger in the memory of Army personnel in particular and the Nigerian Armed Forces in general, through his giant strides and accomplishments . 

He stated that late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a great leader who dedicated his service to the army and the nation at large.

While appreciating the group for the visit, he said, “ Lt. Gen Lagbaja was a great leader with great vision, he  dedicated his service to the Nigerian Army and the nation at large. 

He was a transformational figure who served with diligence, his effort will never be forgotten for his meritorious service to the nation.

He served his time with diligence but his effort will never be forgotten, as we pray for the repose of his soul and the family he left behind. "We  will continue with the legacy he left behind". Minjiyawa

Convener of the group, Ambassador Mary Abayomi- Fatile, who led the group could not hold back her tears as she went emotional.

She described Lt. Gen. Lagbaja as an astute professional with who had keen interest in human capacity building and development. 

" His transformational work could be seen around Army barracks in terms of infrastructure and welfare. - Fatile

" The late former COAS  drove the vision, gave advice and directions on what propelled the establishment of the advocacy group. She added 

She explained that the essence of the advocacy group was to collaborate with the armed forces, project their good works and make Nigerians aware of the sacrifices they take to safeguard the country.

She said, several town hall meetings have been held in different parts of the country, where the citizenry were made to understand that, the fight against insurgency and other enemies of the state was not for the Military and other security agencies alone , but for everybody". 

Fatile added,” Members of the advocacy group entail professionals in the media industry, film actors, ex-national footballers and the Nigeria National Supporter's Club”

AMB Mary Abayomi Fatile prayed that, God  grant the Wife Children and family members the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

National grid partially collapses again, causing blackouts.

Nigeria’s national power grid has suffered another collapse, just two days after a partial collapse, resulting in a complete blackout across the country.

Data from the Nigerian System Operator’s portal (niggrid.org) indicated that power generation fell to zero megawatts at 11:30 a.m., impacting all 22 operational generation companies nationwide.

This latest collapse follows a partial grid failure that occurred just two days ago, as the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) continues to struggle with maintaining a stable electricity supply.

The country’s first major blackout of the year occurred on February 4, with further breakdowns recorded on August 5 and three times in October. The October 14 incident led to a partial outage the next day, and a subsequent disturbance on October 19 nearly caused another complete collapse.

Following the collapse, Ikeja Electric released a statement stating that it is currently experiencing a system outage.

“Dear Esteemed Customer, please be informed that we experienced a system outage today 07 November 2024 at 11:29Hrs affecting supply within our network. Restoration of supply is ongoing in collaboration with our critical stakeholders. Kindly bear with us, “ the statement read.

Read also: Why Nigeria’s grid collapses frequently

Nigerians have taken to social media to voice their frustration over the ongoing grid instability.

Adetayo Adegbmle, a prominent critic of the power sector, tweeted, “That’s actually the second time in the past 10 hours….It’s crazy what’s happening at @TCN_NIGERIA.”

His tweet highlights concerns over the frequency and duration of outages, which have significantly worsened in recent months.

Similarly, user @osunsinatolu criticised the government’s recent decision to remove fuel subsidies in light of the continued power issues.

“A country that has not fixed its electricity issue should not be removing fuel subsidy,” the tweet read. “National grid issues every time and you can’t even afford to buy fuel. This is annoying.”

In another post, @timiPR remarked on the grid’s deteriorating reliability compared to previous years, stating, “This national grid used to collapse like once every 4-6 months back then but look at what is going on now. It goes off almost every week now. It went off 2 days ago, yeah? Now it’s down again.”

Blackouts are frequent in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with over 200 million people, due to ageing power infrastructure, vandalism and inadequate gas supply for its thermal plants, which account for over 75 percent of output.

Although Nigeria has the infrastructure to generate about 13,000 megawatts of power, its creaking grid can only distribute a third of it, forcing businesses and households to run costly fuel generators.