By Florence Onuegbu

The Africa Fintech Foundry (AFF) says it is collaborating with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to support 10 startups, to increase the adoption of eNaira in the country.

The Head of AFF, Mr Daniel Awe, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

He spoke on the sideline of the Semi-Final Pitching of the eNaira Hackathon 2022.

Awe said that the top 10 startups, innovators, entrepreneurs, were part of the over 5,000 startups that registered for the eNaira Hackathon.

He said that there was the need to increase the adoption of eNaira in the country, as it enhanced financial inclusion, supported digital economy and improved economic activities.

eNaira was introduced by CBN in 2021 as a digital currency and a lot of people have asked the question, what is actually the usefulness of this eNaira?

A lot of people have also criticised eNaira, that they prefer cryptocurrency, but the truth is that eNaira is going to be a successful product when there are use cases, when people are able to see problems it is going to be solving, he said.

Awe said that AFF and CBN were collaborating on the hackathon in order to increase the adoption of eNaira.

So the hackathon is a platform where innovators, developers, entrepreneurs, coders come together, to solve problems, to create innovative ideas.

When we layer that on eNaira, it means we brought in different players within the ecosystem developers, coders, innovators, entrepreneurs, to come up with different ideas, different use cases, that they can leverage on eNaira,

This is so that the consumers of eNaira will now see the benefit of eNaira, they will have the opportunity to see the problem that eNaira will solve, he said.

Awe said that CBNs role was just to create the platform for fintech startups and entrepreneurs the ecosystem to leverage to create solutions that would benefit the entire financial services space.

He said about 5,000 players within the fintech ecosystem applied for the hackathon.

Awe said that they were reduced to about 175 teams and eventually 70 for the quarter final pitching.

He said that the semi-final would see 20 teams being selected for the finals, of which the top 10 would be assisted to boost eNaira adoption in the country.

Now, this top 10 potential businesses when they come out of the final of the hackathon, there is a cash prize for them.

I think number one is going to get 5 million eNaira. Number two is getting 3 million eNaira. Number three, 2 million and the remaining, the next ten will get 1 million eNaira.

Afterwards, those top 10 will resume in the AFF accelerator programme, whereby some of them will get some funding to start up their businesses on their ideas, he said.

Awe said that they would be guided by CBN and AFF.

He said that by the time they come up with good business with their innovations, employment would be created and they would increase the adoption of eNaira.

Awe said that there was possibility of wealth that would be created by these people. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chidinma Agu/Oluwole Sogunle

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The Youth of St. Mulumba, Abuja Sub-Council, a faith- based organisation and other stakeholders have called for intensified efforts in preventing the menace of drug and illicit substance abuse in the country.

The President, Youth of St. Mulumba (YSM) Abuja Sub-Council, Mr Ebube Nwaegbu, made the call at the organisations one year anniversary and stakeholders symposium, in Abuja on Saturday.

Nwaegbu said there was urgent need for effective measures to address and prevent drugs and illicit substance abuse, especially among youths in Nigeria.

The theme of the symposium was : Fight Against Drug and Illicit Substance Abuse: the Role of Faith Based Youth Organisation.

He said that any society that wanted to develop must address some of the challenges affecting the youth.

He advised youths to run away from drug abuse which had rigorous effects on their body, personality and future.

I want to admonish Nigeria youths to please run away from drug abuse and make yourself responsible and relevant to the society, as leaders of not just tomorrow but also today, Nwaegbu said.

He said that the programme and its theme were organised to sensitise Nigerians, especially the youth, to the danger of abusing drugs.

The National Project Officer of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Dr Akanidomo Ibanga, who was a guess speaker at the event, also urged faith based organisations to accelerate preventive measures against drug abuse and illicit substance in the country.

Ibanga said that preventive measures were important as rehabilitation centres currently available in the country were insufficient to cater for numbers of those who needed rehabilitation.

He said that currently there were 87 treatment centres with about 2,000 beds, while survey showed that not less than 3,000 persons needed treatment from drugs and substance abuse related issues.

We are calling on the faith based organisations to do their part, basically to continue to invest in evidence based prevention, care and invest in rehabilitation and reintegration of people who are involved in drugs and substance abuse back to the society, he said.

He also called for establishment of dropping centres, where people could easily approach to drop those involved in drug abuse for care, treatment and rehabilitation.

Ibanga also called for inclusive care and rehabilitation, especially for women involved in drug abuse.

Another Guest Speaker, Mrs Oluchi Nweke, urged the youth to reject drug abuse no matter the influence.

Nweke, who is an Assistant Commander of Narcotics (CAN) PSO Treatment and Rehabilitation at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said that the increasing rate of hard drugs consumption among youths was worrisome.

Nweke said that substance abuse possessed great danger that threatened stability, unity and development of any nation.

She said that drug abuse did not only destroy major organs of the body including brain, heart, liver and kidney, it also affected the well-being of people addicted to it, thereby affecting their contributions to national development and security.

It is increasingly recognised that there is a strong relationship between drugs/substance abuse and national security.

One major element of national security is human security ( Protection of Iives and Property); drug dependency brings about damage of the Central nervous system and other organs of the body.

The dependent individual will not be able to function optimally and as such, lack the ability to contribute to the development of the nation, she said.

Nweke urged government to ensure that territory institutions did not go on strike for students to graduate on time, as well create job for the teeming youths.

She also advised faith based organisations to join the NDLEA in the efforts to get the nation rid of drug and substance abuse.

Prevention of drug abuse and trafficking is everybodys business.Together we can make it and together we can achieve a drug-free society.

The Chaplain in charge of The Knights of Saint Mulumba, Abuja Council, Rev. Fr. Innocent Joji, described drug abuse as a menace that had destroyed many potential leaders.

He said that the menace must be jointly fought by every stakeholder, including faith-based organisation, government and family.

Also parents must watch their wards and if they see any changes in their wards they should quickly send them to rehabilitation centres because the earlier the better, he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Ismaila Chafe

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed his former Personal Assistant on New Media, Bashir Ahmad, as Special Assistant to the President on Digital Communications.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, confirmed the appointment in a letter of appointment addressed to Ahmad, dated July 20, 2022.

In the letter sighted by NAN on Sunday in Abuja, Mustapha said the appointment took effect from July 19, 2022.

Ahmad had resigned his previous position as Personal Assistant to the President in line with the presidential directive urging all political office holders wishing to contest elective office to resign.

The presidential media aide lost his bid to secure the ticket of the All Progressives Congress at the partys primaries for Gaya, Ajingi, Albasu Federal Constituency.

Ahmad had frowned at the way and manner the partys primary was conducted, saying it was fraught with fraud.

NAN reports that the presidential social media handler is believed to be the only presidential aide recalled by the president since the conclusion of the APC primaries.

All the cabinet ministers and presidential aides except Ahmad, who resigned to participate in the APC primaries but failed to secure the party tickets had since been replaced by the president.

Some social commentators who spoke to NAN on the promotion of the media aide to the position of Special Assistant, said Ahmad had successfully handled the social media space as Personal Assistant before his resignation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Source: NAN News

By Cecilia Ijuo

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), says plans are ongoing to deploy drones and other technologically advanced facilities to the countrys borders in its bid to curb smuggling.

The Public Relations Officer of Customs, Deputy Comptroller Timi Bomodi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that technology would help tackle the menace.

He said one of the major efforts in that regard was deploying technology like drones, non intriusic inspection at the borders and a lot of other things that are in the pipeline.

Bomodi said progress had been made with regard to the concession agreement or modernisation agreement with Huawei company and other technical partners in that regard.

According to him, the development will enhance the process of accessing potential danger as well as how to tackle them.

On calls in some quartres for deployment of more manpower at the borders, the Customs spokesperson said the borders were too large to be fully covered by manpower.

if you take everybody that presently works in the military and paramilitary to hold hands across all the borders in Nigeria, you will not be able to come up to ten per cent of our borders.

That is how huge this country is and how tough the terrain which we operate is.

However, we do know that when you introduce technology into the scheme of things, you are going to achieve a lot more.

According to him, there is no doubt that the service has plans to keep expanding its staff base but it is not the individuals that will make the impact that we all desire.

It is the technology that will be deployed to support these individuals that will make the kind of impact we know will go a very long way.

On funding of the service to deliver on its mandate, Bomodi said there was the need for more funding to expand its strategies to curb crime and generate more revenue.

We are talking about innovation in the kind of service that we provide and it cost a lot of money.

We are talking about the welfare of officers which comprises the provision of adequate accommodation, adequate transportation, proper offices and a myriad of other things.

Even vehicles that help them operate under all kinds of terrains in all kinds of environment.

All these things cost money and we cannot say no to that becuase the more we can get the more we will achieve, he said.

NAN reports that Nigeria with a landmass of more than 900,000 square kilometres, shares boundaries with 15 countries.

Some of the countries are the Republic of Niger, Cameroon, the Republic of Benin and the Chad Republic.

Meanwhile, the NCS is an independent body under the supervisory oversight of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning.

It is saddled with the responsibility of collecting customs revenue, facilitation of national and international trade as well as curtailing smuggling activities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Ese E. Eniola Williams

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuel Acha

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, says it is the desire of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State to rebrand and unite the party ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Onyeama disclosed this on Sunday in Enugu in an interactive meeting with members and stakeholders of his pet project, Kwusike Political Family.

The minister said it was sad that members of the party in the state had not learnt from the mistakes of the past that made them loose previous elections.

Onyeama said he had, after the last state elective congress of the party, felt that the party had a team and envisaged a united and progressive APC ready to make the difference.

We had a number of crises for four years which divided our party in the state and we were disillusioned for not winning elections.

As an opposition party in the state, you have to be united to overthrow the ruling party, he said.

The minister, however, said that though they were in a difficult situation, there was hope going forward.

He, however, said it was not too late to seek for new circumstances that would put the party on good footing, adding that leaders were meant to serve their people.

He said the meeting was to do a postmortem of the circumstances that led to the lingering challenges in the party, adding that they would not want to repeat past mistakes.

I am here to meet with my family. Kwusike Foundation is not a factional group that divides our party as some people think.

One of the reasons I wanted us to meet is to do a postmortem about what we did right or wrong in the past in order to prepare ourselves better for future endeavours.

As a party, coming together to chart a course is not reactionary or maintaining a status quo that is anti-people, he said.

According to Onyeama, there have been lots of opinions and distractions after the party congress but we should not be distracted.

He said that political power was not meant to intimidate the people but to serve them, adding that members of the party were equal stakeholders.

We will fight to deliver APC and make it competitive in Enugu State. We should try to seize control of governance through the ballot and make a meaningful difference.

A lot of you have been working hard for the party and together we shall overcome the challenges. APC must thrive in the state, Onyeama said.

In their separate speeches, some members of the party, including Messrs Walter Oji, Benson Eze, Gbazuagu Nweke and Mrs Juliet Egbo, decried the hatred, hardship, intimidation and despair in the state chapter of the party. (NAN)()

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Taiye Agbaje

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo and Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, Chief of Staff to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, have joined other prominent Nigerians to congratulate Sen. Yisa Braimoh on his 80th birthday.

Obaseki in a statement in Abuja, commended Braimoh for his remarkable contributions to the development of Edo, as well as the unity and progress of the country.

I extend hearty congratulations to Sen. Yisa Braimoh, the Osiozoikhai of Auchi Kingdom, a nation builder and an elder statesman of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

You have made remarkable contributions to the development of Edo, even as you continue to work for the unity and progress of our nation, he said.

The governor described the former lawmaker as passionate and diligent leader who championed worthy causes across administrative, business and legislative spheres in Nigeria.

He said the senator, whorepresented Edo North Senatorial District at the 6th National Assembly,recorded prodigious achievements, successfully carved a niche for himself and improved the lives of his constituents and others who had come to know him.

You gave a good account of yourself when you served as Senator for Edo North Senatorial District, and have remained a promoter of justice and equity.

As you join the octogenarian league, I celebrate you and pray that the Almighty grants you many more years in strength and in good health, Obaseki said

Also, a former Chief of Staff to former president Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, who was the chairman at the event to celebrate the senator in Abuja, congratulated him on his 80th birthday.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; Sen. Victor Oyofo; Director General of National Gallery of Art (NGA), Mr Ebeten Ivara; serving and former senators; state commissioners; top politicians, among others, also felicitated with Briamoh during the occasion.

Sen. Briamoh, supported by his wife, children and other family members, in his speech, thanked God for lifting him from a very humble background to an enviable position in life.

According to him, the experiences of my very humble beginning in life instigated my motivation later in life to relentlessly contribute my God-ordained quota to charity and the less-privileged.

If it pleased Almighty Allah to keep me and raise me to this level of my life, the least I can do in reciprocation is to give back to society through the channel of philanthropy, he said.

He said he believed in the philosophy that says: The greatness of a man is not measured by the amount of wealth he acquires but by the number of lives he is able to touch or impact upon positively.

He said over the years, he had contributed to the building of mosques, schools and public-spirited works and infrastructure that had enhanced living standards and conditions of the society, especially the less-privileged.

Over the years, my scholarship foundation has become a bridge through which many indigent pupils and students within my community in Edo North senatorial district and beyond have acquired basic and higher education and attained great heights themselves, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the former legislator, who was born on Aug. 12,1942 in Edo, also marked the occasion with a comprehensive Muslim prayers both at his Asokoro residence and the Halal Childrens Orphanage Home, Abuja, on Friday where he donated food items and cash to the students of the home, including scholarship offer.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

============
Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Source: NAN News

By Naomi Sharang

Pastor Ndidi Osakwe, Wife of the Senior Pastor of the Summit Bible Church, Abuja, has advised parents to give quality time in nurturing their teenagers.

She gave the advice on Saturday at the end of the 2022 Summit Summer Teens Camp organised by the Teens Wing of the Church.

She said that parenthood was a God-given gift, as such parents must not neglect that role and responsibility of nurturing children especially the teenagers.

Children are gifts from God. And as the Bible says in Proverbs Chapter 22 verse six, we must Train up a child in the way he should go.

By teaching him to seek Gods wisdom, will for his abilities and talents, even when he is old he will not depart from it.

As parents, it is one thing to say you are a parent and its another thing to fulfill the role and responsibility bestowed on us.

We can buy them things but we need to spend that quality time with them, the cleric added.

She described the teenage level as a very sensitive and crucial period in the lives of the youths, adding everything happens at that teenage level for future development and leadership.

They are a special group of Gods children, because they are very delicate. As teenagers, they go through different stages and emotions as they develop.

There is so much bombardment and peer pressure that they have to deal with and sometimes they are not able to speak up.

Osakwe further urged parents to give them the teens listening ears.

We have to make out time for these children. It is very important, because if you dont, there is no vacuum.

There is an enemy there that is ready to take up the 24 hours, she cautioned.

Earlier, the Teens Pastor, Kingsley Bangwell said that the camp was borne out of the desire of the church to see a better generation.

The senior pastor is passionate about seeing the next generation get engaged in political activities.

The camp was aimed at transmitting leadership skills and helping the children discover themselves so that they can reach their fullest potential.

They can grow up with the right character, attitude and excel in their academics and begin to see themselves as people who can contribute to nation building.

As part of the activities during the event, we had leadership, communication and skills building sessions and sports.

He said that as the 2023 General Elections are approaching, the participants were trained on what politics entails.

This is election year. Let our children understand what is politics.

Let them begin to understand that political parties are vehicles through which people can get political power through which they can promote social good,he said.

Also, one of the instructors, Pastor Irene Bangwell urged parents to encourage their children to build their self confidence.

Parents should be able to explain to children what the difference between self confidence and disrespect is so that we can have a better society, she added.

She equally called on parents to make out time with their children and/wards to guard against peer pressure.

These are times when parents need to make some adjustments in their schedules in order to always be around for their children, the Pastor, urged.

One of the participants Amarachi Osondu, who appreciated the church for organising the camp said, it was very impactful.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the six-day camp had 130 teens as participants.(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Source: NAN News

By Taiye Olayemi

LVI Art Gallery and Cultural Nexus is to embark on a residency programme for some Nigerian young artists to further improve their level of creativity and expose them to the global space.

Julius Iyoghiojie, Chief Executive Officer of the art gallery, disclosed this during a news conference in Lagos on Friday.

Iyoghiojie said that the essence of the residency programme was also to ensure the young artists get the needed experience to compete favourably with their colleagues in other climes.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that an art residency programme is such that allows guest artists to work in a new environment, often away from the restrictions and pressures of their everyday lives.

He said that the residency programme with the theme; TR Residency would have six artists participate in the maiden edition and would hold from Sept. 1 to Nov. 20, 2022.

We are trying to engage in arts promotion in Nigeria, we are passionate about this, the artists on residency would be painting on canvas for three months, we will be having three males and three females.

Our criteria of picking them was that we ensured they are educated and are below age 30.

LVI Art Gallery and Cultural Nexus would be providing the technical support throughout the programme.

The gallery will be promoting the artists while the artists are to supply the gallery with art works, he said.

The art collector noted that the artists will be given one year insurance plan, monthly allowance, free medical care and would be exposed to mentorship programmes.

He said at the end of the residency programme, there would be a local exhibition when the works produced during the period of the residency would be exhibited for the public.

According to him, the artists would be able to fully evaluate and appreciate arts, adding that those virtues were very rare among Nigerian artists.

We are investing in this because we believe that the growth of Nigerian artists is important, he said.

Iyoghiojie, with over 27 years experience as an art collector, urged parents to allow their wards engage in arts early enough as this would go a long way in boosting their level of creativity.

He noted that his gallery was focused on the promotion of contemporary Nigerian culture, arts, dance and music to achieve strong global brands.

He said the gallery was working on connecting arts and tourism with the combination of an art gallery, photo studio, framing studio, games arena, printing and laminating zones.

According to him, the essence of the framing and photo studios was to ensure quality control, good customer service, speedily service delivery and reliability in delivery. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Source: NAN News

By Angela Atabo

The White Elephant Social Development, in partnership with Connected Development (CODE) has called on the youth to unite towards building the country and work in synergy ahead of the 2023 General Elections.

Mr Hamzat Lawal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the group advised youths to have dreams ,be humble ,strive for a good name and serve humanity.

My message to young people is to continue to work to provide value and service to humanity but before they can do this, they must get the right skill and the right mindset.

I believe that young people of today are part of the solution ,the old people of today are also part of the solution, because the theme of this years Youth Day talks about intergenerational solidarity.

Source: NAN News

By Ginika Okoye

Abuja, Aug. 13, 2022 (NAN) The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited has declared N12.745 million as profit after expenses for the 2021 financial year.

The President of the society, Mr Moses Uzoagba, announced the amount at the agencys 11Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja on Saturday.

Uzoagba said the amount was higher than the N10.305 million profit after expenses recorded in 2020.

The president said the profit was realised due to prudent management and massive investments through loans and trading of items ranging from foodstuffs and household electronics.

He proposed that 69 per cent representing N8.794 million should be declared as dividend and interest.

Uzoagba also proposed that 10 per cent of the profit be set aside as education fund while 10 per cent be placed on general reserve.

The president said that the value of the share capital in the year under review stood at N22.596 million as at December 2021, as against N18.62 million of 2020.

He said that members savings stood at N208.067 million as against the savings of N184.53 million in 2020.

We invested in money market like the Federal Government Treasury Bill. Most loans we gave ran into millions.

The executive committee embarked on vigorous trading during the period under review.

The cooperative shall continue with purchase and sale of food items, electronics and other forms of trade beneficial to members and non-members as the security situation warrants, he assured.

Mr Salako Olusegun, the Deputy Director, Cooperative, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), commended the executives of the cooperative society for being up-to-date with its financial statement.

Olusegun advised NAN members of staff who are yet to join the cooperative to do so; saying that it is the best alternative to fund after retirement.

He also advised members of the cooperative not to vote unreliable persons as its executives on the basis of friendship and other sentiments.

Cooperative is the only platform where everyone is a stakeholder. Cooperative has taken a new dimension and form.

The essence of cooperative is for you to be comfortable before and after you leave service, he said.

Some members of the cooperative suggested the need for the executives to venture into more businesses to enable it make more profit.

Mrs Ese Eniola-Williams, a member of the cooperative, said that venturing into businesses like transportation would open up more opportunities for the society.

I have always had confidence in NAN cooperative because it is where you run to and it is always there to answer you. It has done well in keeping and trading with our money.

The management should seek more avenues where it can get things done for members.

The profit of over N12 million is encouraging; but we can do more, she said.

Mr Paul Aliyu, another member of the cooperative, applauded the executives for the profit recorded.

On members who patronise various loan agencies, Aliyu suggested the need for the agencies to liaise with employers of public servants who approach them for loans before obliging them.

He said the move would ensure if the staff member is credit worthy or had collected loans from other platforms. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Constance Imasuen/Julius Toba-Jegede

Source: NAN News

By Salisu Sani-Idris

A Non- Governmental Organisation(NGO), Helpline Foundation for the Needy, Abuja, has called on governments to give more opportunities to indigenous youths in the FCT to participate in governance and decision-making.

The President of the foundation, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, made the call in a statement to commemorate the 2022 International Youth Day Celebration, on Friday in Abuja.

Ahmadu, also the founder of the NGO, stated that it was expedient for the youth to be given priority attention in the scheme of things, especially because they represent the strength and future of the territory and country.

Ahmadu, however, commended the FCT Administration for facilitating youth engagement and development through the FCT youth network, with a view to channeling their energies, passions and talents into productive means.

She also appreciated the FCT Administration for ensuring the growth and sustainable development of the nations capital.

She thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for evolving youth-friendly programmes, particularly in the social security aspect such as N-Power, and others.

According to her, these have been instrumental in youth empowerment, and management of restiveness across the country.

Ahmadu urged the youth not to allow themselves to be used as agents of destabilisation or political thugs, particularly as Nigeria heads for general elections.

She also called on the youths to be mindful of their future, stay positive at all times, in every situation, and always keep themselves busy with productive ventures and endeavours.

Similarly, she advised youths against negative vices that would only jeopardise their future and put their families into trouble.

Ahmadu disclosed that there were different empowerment programmes being carried out by the NGO and other organisations that the youths could take advantage of and improve their conditions of living.

The International Youth Day, which was introduced in Aug. 12, 2000 seeks to raise awareness about the cultural and legal issues faced by youth throughout the world.

The theme for this years celebration is; Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages, targets inclusiveness of youths of all ages in societal development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Source: NAN News

By Olajide Idowu

Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun on Friday expressed gratitude to tourists and devotees for making the grand finale of Osun-Osogbo festival memorable.

Oyetola, in his remarks at the event which took place at the sacred grove in Osogbo, said the annual festival was promoting the states rich traditional and cultural heritage.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Wole Oyebamiji, the governor said the yearly event had no doubt assummed an international status, making it to be strategic for the growth of the states economy.

Oyetola said the Osun-Osogbo festival had brought the state to the global map, attracting pilgrims and tourists to the state annually.

It has offered itself as a platform that helps us to showcase and promote Osuns rich traditional and cultural heritage.

The Osun Osogbo festival has, over the years, contributed to the socioeconomic development of the state in no small measure.

Your conduct and carriage during the celebrations has showcased us as an organised, hospitable and peaceful people, he said.

He said the state government would not relent in its efforts to exploit the opportunities offered by the annual festival to ensure its growth and sustainability for the socioeconomic development of Osun.

As an administration, we will continue to seek ways of mainstreaming our unique potential as a cultural and tourist destination.

As you are well aware, in addition to the frantic efforts being made to attract investment to this state and bolster its image, our administration last year instituted a policy aimed at encouraging public and civil servants to wear adire every Thursday.

This initiative, we believe, will resuscitate our local textile, create employment opportunities, boost marketing and transform the socio-economic and cultural tourism of our dear state and the country as a whole.

I urge you all to key into this initiative by patronising our fabrics. Let us own our fabric and create our own market, he said

In his remarks, Oba Jimoh Olaonipekun, the Ataoja of Osogbo and host of the Osun-Osogbo festival, gave his royal blessings to the different groups that paid him homage.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which started on Aug.1 came to an end on Friday with a young maiden, Arugba, carrying a calabash on her head as a symbolic sacrifice to the river goddess.

The Osun-Osogbo festival, whose history dates back to many centuries, is usually celebrated in an ancient grove believed to be among the last of the sacred forests still remaining among Yoruba cities.

In recognition of its global significance and cultural value, the Sacred Grove was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

NAN further reports that for the people of Osogbo, the annual festival symbolises the traditional cleansing of the town and cultural reunion of the people with their ancestors and founders of Osogbo kingdom. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

Source: NAN News

By Shedrack Frank

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Bayelsa on Friday handed over 11 crew members and one fishing trawler to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

The crew members and the trawler, MV TRADE WIND, were apprehended on Aug. 6, off Brass waters in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

The Commanding Officer of the Base, Capt. Muhammed Alhassan, said those arrested were10 Nigerians and a Ghanaian.

He said the mariner had switched off their Automatic Identification System and violated the no trawling zone of 5NM from shoreline.

The commanding officer urged all mariners to be law abiding as they carry out their activities within the Nigerian maritime environment.

All mariners and their agents must be aware that the Nigerian Navy has the capacity to track any vessel within the Nigerian waters up to Exclusive Economic Zone through the FALCON EYE and RMAC system.

So, mariners are warned to keep their automatic identification and communication system operational, as switching it off constitutes a violation of the Nigerian maritime law, he added.

Alhassan said that the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, had directed all Nigerian Navy operational units to strictly monitor all vessels and ensure compliance to maritime laws.

The Nigerian Navy will not spare any offender that violates any of these laws within Nigerias maritime domain.

Today, I hereby hand over MV TRADE WIND to the representative of the federal department of fisheries for further investigation and possible prosecution, he said.

Responding, Mr Are Taiwo, Principal Fishery Officer, Monitoring and Enforcement Unit in Lagos Office, said the mariner would be investigated and prosecuted if found guilty.

He commended the Navy for safeguarding Nigerias maritime domain. (NAN)

Edited by Chidi Opara/Maharazu Ahmed

Source: NAN News

By Justina Auta

The UNESCO has embarked on sensitisation and advocacy visits to some LGAs in Ebonyi to promote school health education for girls.

Ms Ngozi Amanze, UNESCOs National Programme Officer on Education in a statement, said a multi-sectoral team visited Abakaliki to garner support for a two-year project on school health education.

Amanze said the two-year project was a collaborative effort between UNESCO and Peking University (PKU), China to promote school health education for girls in Africa in the COVID-19 era.

According to her, the project aim at promoting education, health, and well-being of girls in Abakakili, Ebonyi and Izzi local government areas of Ebonyi state.

Under the current circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become imperative now more than ever to promote health education for girls with a view to improving their health literacy.

Also, improve knowledge and developing life skills which are conducive to individual and community health.

She further explained that strengthening the capacity of girls through education and training is the most effective way of lifting them out of poverty.

Amanze, therefore, appealed to stakeholders to eradicate cultural norms that prevented girls from achieving their full potential in life and improve Parent-Child communication.

She said representatives from Federal Ministries of Education, Health, Women Affairs and UNESCO visited Abakiliki Local government to garner their support.

The statement also revealed that they met with stakeholders ranging from the Council Chairman, Traditional/ Religious Leaders, Women / youth groups and officials of the Local education authority.

It also quoted, Mrs Ucha Kalu, representing Federal Ministry of Women Affairs stressing the need to break the silence, amplify voices against Gender Based Violence (GBV) and school related violence.

Also, Mrs Uche Udoji, representative of the Minister of Education urged stakeholders to support the project for a full realisation of the objectives therein.

The statement also quoted Mr Offor Reuben, the Education Supervisory councillor, Abakaliki LGA assuring the team of their support toward reaching the projects goal.

The local government will give an enabling environment for the project from inception to closeout, he said.

Similarly, Mrs Odikwe Christiana, the Women Leader was elated with the inclusion of Abakiliki as one of the pilot LGAs for the project and assured the team of the unflinching support of women to the project.

Christiana, expressed joy over the inclusion of Menstrual hygiene management as part of the project focus, which would improve school attendance.

Anytime you see a school girl in the community at home you will quickly know she is menstruating, she said.

On his part, Chief Eze Ukpa of Amagu Okpuitumo community, Abakaliki LGA, Head of the traditional council, pledged their support and assured of their resolve to eliminate sociocultural norms preventing enrollment, retention and completion of education for girls. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Source: NAN News

By Gabriel Agbeja

The Republic of Cameroon on Wednesday in Abuja sought for support of Accident Investigation Bureau, Nigeria (AIB-N) on investigation of an air crash that occurred in the sister African country.

The accident, involving a Havilland DHC 400 Twin Otter aircraft, occurred on May 11, in Cameroon.

Mrs Essimi Dine, the Director of Civil Aviation of the Ministry of Transportation, Cameroon, led a team from Cameroon to AIB-N headquarters on the matter.

She said the support of AIB was necessary due to its advanced infrastructure for accident investigation.

Dine said the AIB-N would help the Cameroon authorities to download and analyse information from the recorder of the aircraft on the accident that occurred in Cameroon.

According to her, the Republic of Cameroon will further collaborate with AIB-N on capacity building in accident investigation.

We have come to see how AIB is doing things. What they can do in terms of equipment and infrastructure they have.

Thank you for your warm welcome here in Nigeria. We appreciate the support of the AIB. We are sure that the cause of the accident will be resolved after our work here.

We will further request for other areas of collaboration. We really appreciate the support of AIB, she said.

Earlier, Mr Akin Olateru, the Commissioner of AIB-N, said the bureau would be part of the accident investigation being carried out by Cameroon, noting that Nigerians were on board.

According to him, two Nigerian pilots and a Cameroonian operator were involved in the accident.

Cameroon has decided to seek assistance of AIB-N in terms of the investigation to help with the download of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), analysis of information and animation of how it happened.

As you are aware, we have one of the best accident investigation laboratories in the world. We have capability of getting information from the damaged recorder which the aircraft came with.

The aircraft came with a highly burned recorder. We will be able to retrieve information from it, he said.

Olateru said the AIB-N had previously helped some African countries including Niger Republic, Gambia and Sierra Leone in a related development.

He said that AIB-N had just received approval from the Ministry of Justice to sign an MOU with Sierra Leone to help the country to set up an Independent Accident Investigation Centre. (NAN)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The New National Star Newspaper has called for nominations its maiden South-East Achievement Awards and Annual Lecture Series (SEAA).

The Managing Director/Editor- in-Chief of the Newspaper, Martin Ayankola, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Ayankola said the event was part of the newspapers commitment to deepening democracy, good governance, economic development as well as sustaining peace and security in the country.

He said the event was also aimed at recognising deserving individuals and corporate organisations who had distinguished themselves in all spheres of human endeavour.

Ayankola noted that the SEAA would be used as a platform to recognise and celebrate a selected group of distinguished Nigerians from the South -East region of the country.

This, he said, was for their exceptional accomplishments and contributions to society in different fields.

It is an award ceremony that will cut across age, career and other categorisations. The platform will also be used to discuss issues affecting the South- East and to encourage inculcation of the Think Home Philosophy, he added.

Ayankola said all the award recipients would automatically be nominees for the national award ceremony slated for January 2023 in Abuja.

He added that the series would be held in all the geopolitical zones of the country after which a grand finale would take place in Abuja.

According to him, every citizen from the South-East is qualified as a recipient adding that nominees must be distinguished leaders and role models.

They must be contributors to the growth and success of others as well as persons of vision and creativity; and must have verifiable presence of investments in the South -East.

A total of 21 categories have been identified for the awards including: Best Emerging Business Award/Best start-up; Outstanding Employer of Labour; Best Digital Presence; Non-Profit Organization (NGO) of the Year Award and Business Achievement Award (Male/Female Category).

Others are Businesswoman of the Year, Businessman of the Year, Best Governor in Infrastructural Development, Best Governor in Peace and Security, South -East Person of the Year and South- East Outstanding Leadership Award.

They also include Entrepreneur of the Year; Lifetime Achievement Award, Philanthropist of the Year; Best Performing Legislator, Best Youth Mentor of the Year; Dynamic Youth Award; Creative Industry Award; Outstanding Support for Education; Song of the Year Award and Artiste of the Year Award.

Names of nominees can be submitted by the public to the New National Star Newspaper through any of its social media handles; https://m.facebook.com/NewNationalStar/; https://m.facebook.com/newnationalstartv/; https://www.instagram.com/newnationalstar/.

A committee will collate and screen all nominees and select a final list for each award category.

To this end, the general public is therefore enjoined to forward their nominees for the various categories, stating reasons why their candidates should be considered, he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Force Commander (FC), Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Maj.-Gen. Abdul-Khalifah Ibrahim has pledged to sustain the cooperation between MNJTF and Operation Barkhane in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel region.

Ibrahim stated this during a familiarisation visit by the newly appointed Force Commander of Operation Barkhane, Maj.-Gen. Bruno Baraz to the Headquarters MNJTF in Ndjamena, Chad.

The Chief of Military Public Information for MNJTF, Lt.-Col. Kamarudeen Adegoke, made this known in a statement on Wednesday.

The MNJTF force commander congratulated the new Op Barkhane commander and appreciated the existing cooperation between them.

He commended Op Barkhane for their stabilising role and fight against terrorism in the Sahel region.

In his remarks, the FC Operation Barkhane, Maj.-Gen. Baraz appreciated MNJTF for their efforts, which he said had to a large extent, brought stability to the MNJTF area of operations.

Baraz expressed desire to work closely with MNJTF and other partners to achieve the collective mission of restoring peace in the region.

Operation Barkhane is a French led anti insurgency operation that started in 2014 against Islamist groups in the Sahel region.

The MNJTF spokesman also disclosed that the outgoing Commander, Sector 1 MNJTF (Cameroon), Brig.-Gen. Bouba Debekreo also presented his successor, Col. Pierre Tiokap, to the MNJTF.

Adogoke said the outgoing Commander thanked the FC for his support and guidance and requested for same cooperation to his successor.

The FC in his remarks praised the outgoing Sector 1 Commander who has been a founding commander of the MNJTF since the inception of the Force in 2015.

He praised his professionalism and wished him well in his new assignment while also urging the new Commander to do same.

The new commander said he is happy to join the team and would work collaboratively to achieve the mission of the MNJTF, he said. (NAN) ()

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Source: NAN News

By Yakubu Uba

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has approved the release of N19.3m for the immediate payment of scholarship allowances to 59 indigent students that gained admission into law schools.

The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Mallam Bala Isa made this known on Tuesday in Maiduguri while addressing newsmen.

Bala said the scholarship was for the 2021/2022 academic year.

This is part of His Excellencys commitment in assisting the educational sector and in assisting students of Borno at all levels of education.

We are grateful to His Excellency for this support and we believe that the students will put in their best in order to make Borno proud, Isa said. (NAN)

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Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Ismaila Chafe

President Muhammadu Buhari has joined the media in celebrating with Alhaji Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operations of The Nation Newspaper, on his 60th birthday.

In a congratulatory message by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Tuesday in Abuja, Buhari extolled the journalist for his dedication to duty, devotion to nation building and determination to promote democratic values.

The president noted contributions of the journalist to political developments in the country, as a reporter and editor, regularly updating the public on germane issues with his hallmark of fairness, balance and clarity, which endear many readers to his reports.

Buhari joined the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Nigerian Guild of Editors in rejoicing with the prolific reporter and editor, whose interest in humanity recently saw to his investiture as 11th President of Rotary Club of Abuja in Maitama.

The president prayed that the almighty God would guide the celebrator in his service to the nation, and bless his family. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, says the masterminds of the June 5 massacre in Owo, Ondo State have been captured by security operatives.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that no fewer than 40 worshippers were massacred at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, in an incident that jolted Nigeria and the global community.

Speaking at a parley with media executives at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Irabo said that the terrorists were captured at different locations across the country.

He said that the suspects, majority of whom were arrested in various communities in Kogi, would be paraded before the public in due course.

We had wanted to present the suspects to the public immediately but couldnt because certain investigations are still being carried out, he said.

He gave his assurance that in due course, the suspects and others who had been involved in some daring attacks in the past few months would be presented to the public.

Starting with the Owo church attack, it is my pleasure to let you know that we have arrested those behind that dastardly act.

On Aug. 7, one Idris Ojo (37) was apprehended at Aiyetorosi in Ondo State. He was one of the high-profile Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) members that escaped from Kuje Prison.

He was arrested along with one Jimoh Ibrahim, a 39-year-old criminal.

Ojo was not done with all the criminal activities which he undertook in the past, he was also planning other deadly attacks and he was perfecting those plans along with his cronies before he was captured, he said.

Again, on Aug. 4, the military in a combined operation with the Department of State Service (DSS) arrested four terrorists at Eika in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Others are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, otherwise known as Ibn Malik; Momoh Abubakar, Aliyu Itopa and Auwal Onimisi.

Now, Omeiza is one of the masterminds of the June 5 Catholic Church attack in Owo as well as the attack on the police station in Adavi also in Kogi State that led to the killing of a policeman as well as weapons being carried away, the CDS said.

On the Abuja-Kaduna train attack, Irabor said that although some victims had been released, the military and other security agencies remained committed to ensuring safe rescue of the remaining victims in captivity.

He said the military had intensified both air and ground operations to deal with criminals in all parts of the country, adding that several successes had been recorded in recent times.

Irabo disclosed that based on military air operations, the military on Aug. 6, killed one Alhaji Abdulkareen, a bandits leader along with his fighters in Nigerias North West.

By the deeds of the surgical air operations that we have conducted, many of the bandits leaders have been killed, he added.

The CDS said the essence of the parley was to solicit understanding and support from the media in the fight against the security challenges bedeviling the nation.

He, however, called for greater cooperation between the military and the media with a view to finding solution to the security challenges and disallow enemies from stoking fears in the minds of the public.

The defence chief also urged Nigerians and political leaders to understand the distinction between military operations and politics, adding that the military remained undaunted in ensuring a safe and secured nation.

Earlier, the Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Jimmy Akpor, said the essence of the parley was to build a sustainable trust between the media and members of the armed forces.

Akpor said the meeting was in line with the leadership focus of Irabor toward fostering professional armed forces capable of meeting constitutional imperatives.

The Chief Executive Officer of The Media Today, Mr Charles Odenigbo, said the military and media must be frank and open to each other in ensuring peace and security in the country.

Odenigbo, the facilitator of the event, said that although military operations could not be discussed in the open, there was need to see how the media could fit into the activities of the military. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ali Baba-Inuwa

Source: NAN News