By Vivian Emoni

The Vice Chancellor, University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Charles Igwe, on Sunday bemoaned the absence of budget in research institutions for efficient environmental research in the country.

Igwe said this at the Environmental stakeholders review on Resources and Environmental Policy Research Centre, Environment for Development (REPRC-EfD), for five years strategic plan on environmental issues in Abuja.

Igwe said that serious work such as setting up more programmes needed to be done to help Nigeria solve its numerous environmental problems.

According to him, the absence of allocation funds for research in annual budget for universities is a challenge to the efficiency of research institutions in Nigeria.

I commended the Centre for its achievements on the strategic plan which will help the centre to carry out a focused intervention in the core areas of its mandate.

I am also commending TETfund for its intervention in research funding.

Meanwhile, the absence of allocation of funds for research in the annual budget of universities is a challenge to the efficiency of research institutions in Nigeria, he said.

Dr Nnaemeka Chukwuone, Director of REPRC-EfD Nigeria, said that the centre has produced over 28 high impact research publications since its establishment in 2019.

Chukwuone said that the centre has developed pilot natural capital accounts for Nigeria, for review of the countrys fishery Act, capacity building training for government technical staff among others.

The strategic plan will last for five years from 2022 to 2026 and will help the centre to achieve specific objectives through research, policy engagements and capacity building for researchers.

Our target is to use research to influence policies that will make our environment better, he said.

Chukwuone said that the objectives of the REPRC-EfD are to conduct policy-impact researches that will help Nigeria solve its environmental challenges.

Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo, the Chairman of REPRC Policy Advisory Panel, called on government to set up a National Research Council that would determine the countrys problems and proffer solutions.

Oladipo said that the council would help to carry out solution-based research on environmental issues.

Also, Prof. Anthonia Achike, the Chairman of REPRC strategic planning committee, said that the event was organised to solicit suggestions of environmental experts and stakeholders in order to fine-tune the strategic plan. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Fortune Abang

A former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Turaki, has called on Christians across the country to exemplify the values of Jesus Christ as they celebrate Easter.

According to a statement from the Turaki Media Office in Abuja, the former Presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defined Easter celebration to be a season of peace and unity.

Easter is another opportunity for people of the Christian faith to be their brothers and sisters keepers, as well aswork towards the peace and unity of Nigeria and pray for the development of the nation.

Today is a day when we must all reflect on and pray for the way forward for our dear nation, Nigeria. This is because we are approaching a crucial crossroad which is next years general elections.

We must all ask the Almighty God whose reasoning surpasses our understanding for guidance on the way forward, he said.

He, however, noted that as Christians celebrate, Muslim faithful celebrate with them, and together they would work to build a nation that Nigerians would be proud of. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuel Afonne

All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant, Mr Tein Jack-Rich, has urged Christians to always love and forgive one another as a reminder to what Jesus Christ did for mankind at Calvary.

Jack-Rich said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja to celebrate Easter.

He said that love was a necessary ingredient for peace as the country moved toward the 2023 general election.

Jack-Rich expressed the optimism that the security and other challenges confronting the nation would be a thing of the past as Nigerians joined the rest of the world to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I bring warm wishes of peace and hope to you and your loved ones.

It is my fervent prayer that in this season of sober reflection and celebration, our hearts may find thoughts of peace toward our neighbours and one another.

That we may be patient and forgive one another, support the weak and embrace peace.

In the same vein, as our nation enters the season of transition in the midst of global economic challenges and uncertainties, I equally bring you the message of comfort and hope for a better tomorrow.

The times may be tough but we are tougher together in unity. This is in the strong resolve that the fervent spirit of the Nigerian people can never be shaken, Jack-Rich said.

He urged the Christian faithful to imbibe the virtues of Christ and extend love to all Nigerians for the country to achieve the prosperity it yearns for.

This is a great, beloved and blessed country; always love Nigeria. Pray for Nigeria, believe in Nigeria.

Together we can make history in building the nation of our dreams where love and peace, justice and joy reign.

As you celebrate Easter, may this season be a turnaround in your lives and may the joy of the Risen Lord fill your hearts and restore hope in our country, Nigeria, Amen, he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Mohammed Tijjani

Police in Kaduna State rescued four kidnap victims on Friday, the spokesman, ASP Mohammed Jalige, stated in Kaduna on Sunday.

Jalige stated that an unspecified number of bandits stormed Gabari Community, Samaru, in Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna state on Friday.

An anonymous caller promptly reached out to the Divisional Police Office at Danmagaji, Zaria, he stated.

The caller said an unspecified number of suspected bandits, dressed in military gear invaded the community, shot sporadically and whisked four victims into the forest, Jalige also stated.

He added that on receiving the information, men of Operation Puff Adder II, a police unit, and local vigilantes mobilised and ambushed the bandits on their anticipated escape route.

Jalige stated that the strategy yielded dividends as two of the victims were rescued during a fierce encounter with the bandits.

He added that with the assistance of the local vigilantes, the team laid a second ambush at Gwada Village, another escape route for bandits.

Those who escaped from the first ambush were intercepted just as two other victims were rescued unhurt.

Unfortunately, the bandits had earlier shot and killed one person at Kufena Village, Wusasa, for refusing to be kidnapped, he stated.

He urged members of the public to always alert the police with prompt information as the Commissioner of Police, Mr Yekini Ayoku, has assured of confidentiality on information received.

The commissioner also condoled with the family of the deceased and prayed that he foundeternal rest, Jalige stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Chijioke Okoronkwo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has assured Nigerians of the restoration of peace and a more prosperous future for all regardless of current challenges.

Osinbajo spoke with State House correspondents after the Easter Sunday service at the State House Chapel, Aso Villa, Abuja.

According to him, Easter is a key celebration for Christians because of its significance.

My message is really a prayer; the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is a defining moment for us Christians; and one of the most important things to bear in mind is the resuscitation of hope.

Where there is despair, I pray that hope would be restored, where there is fear, I pray that there is courage and confidence.

Where there is deprivation, I pray that there is prosperity, and there is abundance.

There may be things that appear dead but the power of the resurrection is one that assures us that life will come after death.

So, we are completely confident especially for our country that everywhere we suffer deprivation, there will be restoration, and that is the promise of the resurrection, he said.

Easter Sunday is celebrated worldwide by Christians to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Osinbajo was joined at the service by his wife, Dolapo, Sen. Emmanuel Bwacha, and a member of the House of Representatives, Danjuma Shiddi, both from Taraba State, among other senior officials in the presidency. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Bridget Ikyado

The General Overseer, All Christians Fellowship Mission, Rev. William Okoye, has described Easter as the bedrock of the Christian faith.

Okoye made this known in an Interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Easter Sunday in Abuja.

According to him, without the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no way the sins of the believers will be forgiven.

There is no way we can be made children of God, forgiven, cleansed and made children of righteous.

There is no way we can live above sin, have victory over sin and the challenges of life.

He has given us victory over death itself, in other words, He has given us life beyond the grave, that even if we die physically we will live forever with Him in eternity, Okoye said.

He said that God has promised eternal life through Jesus for all believers.

The general overseer said that human transgression and disobedience was the genesis of all sicknesses and calamities on earth.

After God created man in His likeness and image, man enjoyed a robust fellowship with God until man was tempted by the devil to sin against God, he said.

Okoye, however, said that God showed His love and Mercy and rescued humans from Satan and death, through Jesus Christ.

Jesus came to suffer and die and to resurrect from the dead, forgive our sins and then deliver us from the consequences of our sins.

It is a victory over sin and death and all the challenges of this life, he added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Joan Nwagwu

Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, has said that he would make a pronouncement on his journey to the presidency on Tuesday.

Ngige said this at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, at a reception organised by members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) South-East Progressive Forum, according to a statement made available by his media office in Abuja.

The group is among the numerous other political and apolitical groups across the country, urging Ngige to join the presidential race.

The statement said Ngige, while addressing the crowd at the airport, said he had consulted widely and the time has come for him to speak.

He recalled that last December he received a similar call from his brothers of the APC stock and some that have not even practiced politics who came to his hometown, Alor, and pressurised him to join the presidential race.

Make no mistake about it, the presidency is due to us in the Southern part of Nigeria. It is also truism that of all states in the South, only the South-East has not tasted the presidency. That gives much weight to the demand you are making.

In PDP, they are arguing whether it will be North or South. In our own party, APC, we have already agreed that it is South.

I told my supporters when they came on December 31 last year that I will speak after the spiritual season of Lent, to enable me consult my God, angels and archangels. Easter is tomorrow.

It is the resurrection day. We shall rise with the resurrection and after Easter Monday, I will make a pronouncement on my journey to the presidency, he said.

Ngige who is also a former Anambra State Governor said he had done consultation with mortal and immortal people and they are now going to speak.

According to him, I have ears and heard your message clearly. You should all come to my hometown, Alor, in Idemili South local government area of Anambra State on Tuesday. I will make a pronouncement that day.

Regarding the issue of consensus among the APC aspirants in the South-East, he said the issue has not arisen now, saying such discussion would come after the expression of interest and buying of forms.

He commended members of the APC South-East Progressive Forum for trooping out in large numbers to receive him and prayed God to honour each and every one of them the way they have honoured him.

Earlier, the spokesman of the group, Mr Tony Chime, told Ngige that they trooped out to plead with him to join the race for the presidency.

Chime said they had screened many people presenting themselves for the post of president, but are yet to see the material wanted.

We appeal to you, our father, brother and son to please come out and join the race. We know that it is the turn of the South and when it comes down South, we know that it is the turn of the South-East and you are eminently qualified to deliver, he said.

Ngige later paid a visit to the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as part of his consultations with political leaders across the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has called on Christians to pray for socio-economic and political rejuvenation of Nigeria to stem insecurity, political and economic challenges plaguing the country.

Okowa made the call in his Easter message contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Saturday in Asaba.

He said that the resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolised in Easter, remained a turning point in the lives of Christians.

The governor reminded the Christian faithful of the sacrifices of Jesus Christ for mankind and urged them to return to God in full supplication for a rebirth of Nigeria.

According to him, the power of the resurrection provides opportunity for Christians to seek God for His intervention at this critical period in Nigeria when citizens are weighed down by unprecedented hardship.

He asserted that the turbulence in the polity could only be surmounted through dedicated prayers by Nigerians, adding that with prayer at Easter, challenges bedeviling the country would be overcome.

He said that it was a time for people to show love to one another, especially against the backdrop of the prevailing hardship occasioned by insecurity and economic challenges.

He urged well-meaning Nigerians to render assistance, particularly to the downtrodden.

The governor said that as the 2023 general elections in the country beckoned, Nigerians should exercise their power to enthrone a new leadership in the country that would rescue it from imminent precipice.

I call on Christian faithful to go to God in prayer to heal our country from insecurity and economic challenges.

As Christians, we must reflect on the importance of Easter in our daily living, not only with other Christians, but with people of other religious beliefs.

Let me urge Nigerians to extend the spiritual benefits of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, which include love, peace, justice, sacrifice and kindness, to one another, especially in these trying times.

As Christians, it is incumbent on us to continue to uphold the principles of our faith as they relate to honesty, justice, integrity, accountability, compassion, selflessness and the pursuit of the common good for our nation.

I also urge that as we celebrate the Easter, let us be vigilant andsecurity-conscious in our environment and report all suspicious movements to security agencies.

May the lessons and blessings of Easter help us to overcome the challenges bedeviling our beloved country, the governor said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Uchenna Ugwu

Some consumers have expressed concern over the continuous hike in prices of foodstuffs and other items in the country.

The citizens who spoke in a survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kpirikpiri and Margaret Umahi International Markets, revealed that prices of food items are skyrocketing, a situation which is making life unbearable for the citizens.

Mrs Akunna Nnachi, a housewife, pleaded with the government to urgently address the situation as it was taking a toll on her family.

She said that a kilogram of Cow and Goat meat now sell for as high as N3,200 against N2,500 it sold previously.

Prices of food items and transportation have continued to increase, and addressing factors that cause the hike will be stop the increase.

I was told by a meat seller that a live goat now costs between N50,000 and N70,000 because of expenses done when transporting them to Abakaliki, Nnachi said.

Mr Ejike Egbo, a Consumer, also appealed to government to look into the matter as the situation has become so intense that an average family now requires double the amount used previously to cook a pot of meal, to cook these days.

She said, a life bird was sold for N3,500 and N8,500 depending on the sizes.

Egbo lamented that after she expended such an amount of money on just a food item, it would be difficult for her to purchase other food items that would be needed for her to prepare her meal.

Ada Madu, another housewife, revealed that a basket of tomatoes sells for between N20,000 to N22,000, depending on the freshness and the specie.

Before now, I bought it between N6,000 and N8,500; this is really on the high side and to top it all, about four pieces is sold for N200, Madu said.

Chineye Egbo, another consumer, also said she bought a custard-bucket of Garri between N1,000 and N1,300 depending on the brand, a situation which she described as not good.

However, Mrs Ogonna Eze, a trader at Kpirikpiri market who reacted to the consumers complaints, sympathized with them and said that they were not responsible for the hike in food prices. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

The Kano State Agricultural Development Project (KSADP) in collaboration with Sasakawa Africa Association on Saturday distributed inputs to 5,500 farmers to encourage wet season activities.

The state Deputy Governor,Nasiru Gawuna, said this at the inauguration of the inputs distribution exercise in Kano.

He said the government was providing the inputs to the beneficiaries through the Agricultural Mechanisation and Extension Services delivery support project initiated by the KSADP.

Gawuna said the project targeted about 450,000 youth and women to create jobs and enhance effective utilisation of agricultural resources in the state.

The mechanisation project is a milestone to ensure food security in the state, which is witnessing fast-growing population, create jobs for the youth and women as well as provide raw materials for industries.

This will change the traditional agricultural pattern from subsistence to a major agricultural venture, he said.

Gawuna, who is also the commissioner for agriculture, said the project was designed to enhance food security, encourage agricultural productivity and reduce unemployment in the state.

Earlier, Prof. Sani Miko, Country Director, Sasakawa Africa Association, reiterated commitment towards accelerating agricultural productivity and competitiveness through increased farmer access to inputs.

The project strengthened seed system by injecting 20 metric tons of foundation seeds and 1,300 certified high-quality seeds in collaboration with IITA, ICRISAT and eight consortium seed companies, to ensure diffusion across every nook and crannies of the state.

Some 977 clusters with 114,719 farmers from 20 local government areas have been established, he said.

According to him, small holder farmers are receiving support through farmer learning platforms in the areas of crop production enhancement, input support, post-harvest handling, agro-processing, business development and enterprising management.

The association, he said, targeted 270,000 farmers this year across the 44 LGAs of the state while 11,800 of the farmers were participating in the improved vegetable production, processing and enterprise skills training programme.

He said that about 58,000 farmers were being trained on cereal crop production, adding that the scope of the programme would be expanded to cover wet season farmers.

Miko said the association would scaled up its interventions in the next four years, to address the root causes of low productivity and conflicts due to irregular migration in the state and the country at large. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Chimezie Anaso

Mr Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra, has urged Christians to adopt the teachings of humility and love for one another during the Lenten period as a standard for their relations with fellow country men and women.

Obi, who made the remarks in his Easter message, also urged Christians to show commitment to the wellbeing of the country and remember her in their prayers.

He said the cardinal teachings of the faith are anchored on love, tolerance, forgiveness and accommodation of one another.

The PDP presidential aspirant congratulated Christians for successfully observing the 40-day lenten spiritual exercise and urged them to reflect the lessons of the exercise in their dealings with others.

He said as Christ gave his life on the cross to save mankind from eternal damnation, let us show love to one another. In our moments of merriment, let us remember the less privileged among us and extend to them, a hand of fellowship.

Easter calls for sober reflection. It is a moment to look back and chart a better path in our relationship with God and man.

I urge us to spare time to pray for our country, Nigeria, especially in its present trying moments, occasioned by debilitating economic challenges, ethnic strifes and spiraling insecurity.

Let us also ask God to direct our leaders on the path of honesty and sincerity as the country inches into an election programme, next year.

May the lessons of the 40-day lenten season guide us in showing love and compassion in our relations with our fellow country men and women, he stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Ikenna Osuoha

Dr Ifeanyi Odii, governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi has promised to create wealth if he becomes the next governor of the state.

Odii made the pledge on Saturday while returning his gubernatorial interest form at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.

He affirmed his determination to the creation of wealth in Ebonyi with his entrepreneurial background.

I will create wealth in Ebonyi using my entrepreneurial experience.

I shall work on human development which I have long been doing with my foundation, he said.

Odii, who is also the President of Ebele and AnyiChuks Foundation, solicited the support of Ebonyi residents, saying that he would devise policies that would be targeted at alleviating poverty.

Mr Ugorji Oti, former PDP Chairman in Ebonyi described the governorship aspirant as a man of integrity with the capacity to take the state to greater heights.

Oti, who expressed optimism about the chances of the aspirant becoming the governor, said that he had impacted positively the lives of indigent citizens of the state.

Also, Mr Samuel Onwe, Former Deputy Secretary, PDP in Ebonyi, called on Ebonyi people to support the aspiration of Odii, whom he said had shown capacity in leadership through his foundation.

Onwe said said that Ebonyi is a PDP state and would continue to vote and support the party.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that aspirants for different elective positions were at the party secretariat to return their expression of interest and nomination forms.

Source: NAN News

By Edeki Igafe

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has said he did not endorse the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the 2023 General Elections, contrary to media publications.

The Head, Back Office Operations, Office of the Ogiame Atuwatse III, Oriiz Onuwaje, gave the clarification in a statement issued on Saturday and made available to newsmen in Warri.

Onuwaje wasresponding to media reports that the king had endorsed Tinubu when a delegation of the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) and Delta for Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited him on Thursday at his palace.

Onuwajesaid the reports were taken out of context to suit a narrative.

He saidthat the Olu of Warri had no political affiliation to any political party, or candidate vying for any office in the forthcoming elections and accused the writer of the report of contravening the palaces non-partisan status.

On the instructions of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, The Olu of Warri firmly refutes the statement claiming Ogiames endorsement of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Ogiame has no political affiliation or preferred political candidate for any office in the forthcoming 2023 elections, be it at the regional, sub-national, or national level.

Ogiame is a father figure to all and has no personal favourite or special interests in any candidate, or political party vying for any office in the forthcoming elections one way or another.

He will, therefore, not endorse or discredit any candidate to the detriment or advantage of others, he said.

Onuwaje noted that Olu of Warri is a father figure to all who had a genuine interest in advancing development of the nation.

Ogiame is duty-bound to receive and proffer advice and blessings to all those who seek his audience and counsel.

Therefore, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III is using this medium to make this important clarification.

For the avoidance of doubt and further requesting in the future, any queries and clarifications on palace communication should be directed to the palace media office, he said.

Source: NAN News

By Stephen Adeleye

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), North West zone, has declared support for Gov. Yahaya Bellos (GYB) 2023 presidential ambition.

The youths made the declaration at the stakeholders meeting in Kaduna for North West states, organised by the NYCN, Kogi chapter.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Kogi NYCN chapter under the chairmanship of Amb. Ogohi Usman, in 2021, embarked on a tour across the 21 Local Government areas of the state.

The youth further extended the tour to interstate across the North Central states to rally support for Bellos presidential ambition.

In his remarks, Chairman of Kaduna NYCN Chapter, the host state, Mr Bagudu Nathaniel, expressed delight in having the NYCN delegates from Kogi, noting that the chapter had fared well in the administration of Bello.

According to him, the quest to support the GYB2PYB aspiration for the 2023 presidential election is simply born out of the capacity shown by Bello and the transformation projects carried out in Kogi.

He added that he was quite sure and positive that when Bello became President Yahaya Bello (PYB), the total transformation he brought to Kogi would be replicated in Nigeria, with the issue of security in view.

In their various comments, the State Chairmen from Kano NYCN, Mr Awwalu Mohammed; and Jigawa NYCN Chairman, Mr Aliyu Yahaya, lauded the credible achievements of Bello in Kogi and the bold step taken to lead the presidential race for all Nigerian youths.

They noted that the Bello achievements were already speaking for him, adding that the network chain of the NYCN across the 36 states including FCT would be put to proper use.

They, therefore assured the governor of the total support of all Nigeria youths in the north west as well as the northern states in general.

Earlier, the Kogi NYCN Chairman, Usman, urged Nigerian youths to be united in taking over power in 2023, saying, power, as we all know, is not given but taken without violence.

According to him, following the official declaration of GYB, to honour the call of Nigeria youths to contest for the presidential election come 2023, the NYCN Kogi chapter, has continued its campaign for GYB2PYB emancipation.

According to him, bringing out and supporting a candidate is only the beginning of an election process.

Hence we must know that if our voices must be heard through the candidature of Yahaya Adoza Bello, who has finally harkened to the call of Nigerian youths.

We must all come out in our strength and voices to support him till the very end.

At the time Bello became governor, Kogi was groaning and bleeding, kidnapping and armed robbery were twin crimes that gained notoriety, making it one of the most unsafe and insecure in the country.

Though, a situation he inherited, he didnt bulge, but it was his first test and he grabbed the bull by the horn by now making the state the most secure place in the country.

With an emphasis on five thematic areas covering health, infrastructures and utilities, public service and pension reforms, education and youth engagement.

Bello was able to structure plans, programmes and policies of the government which all his giant stride projects were driven and implemented. he said.

Usman further stressed that surely the time is the youths 0 clock and it was the time for youth to take their future in their hands. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Amen Gajira

As Christians celebrate Easter, the Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA), has enjoined them to embrace the spirit of love, peace and sacrifice toward building a united front.

Apostle Emmanuel Kure, Chairman of the association, gave the admonition in Kafanchan on Saturday in a message to felicitate with the Christian faithful as they mark the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

Kure urged Christians to imbibe the lessons learnt during the Easter period and put them into practice in their lives.

He called for prayers for an end to the wanton destruction of lives and property, kidnappings, banditry and other forms of security challenges in the country.

Our country is in dire need of prayers against the current state of insecurity that is hampering our growth and development.

We must pray to God to intervene and restore lasting peace to Southern Kaduna and, indeed, the entire country.

There is need for people to turn back to God by deliberately confessing their sins so as to escape the wrath and punishment of God, he said.

The apostle urged government to be more proactive in the fight against terrorism by deploying technology to identify the hideouts of terrorists.

We must commend the efforts put in by the military toward reducing these attacks in Southern Kaduna to the bearest minimum.

But there is still need for the authorities to begin to deploy modern technologies to track these criminal elements to their hideouts and make them pay for their actions, he added.

He advised the people to continue to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

Kure also commended the Federal Government over the pardon granted some prisoners including former governors Jolly Nyame and Joshua Dariye. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Ikenna Uwadileke

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Saturday that the nations inflation rate increased to 15.92 per cent in March 2022.

According to a report released by NBS in March 2022 the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures inflation increased to 15.92 per cent on year-on-year.

This is 2.25 per cent points lower compared to 18.17 per cent recorded in March 2021.

This means that headline inflation rate slowed down in March 2022 when compared to the same month the previous year, NBS said.

It further said that on month-on-month basis, the Headline Index increased to 1.74 per cent in March 2022, representing 0.11 per cent points higher than the 1.63 per cent rate recorded in February 2022.

The percentage change in the average composite CPI for the 12 months period ending March 2022 over the average previous 12 months period is 16.54 per cent.

This shows 0.19 per cent points decrease compare to 16.73 per cent recorded in February 2022, NBS further said.

The agency also said that urban inflation rate increased to 16.44 per cent year-on-year in March 2022 showing a decline of 2.32 per cent points from 18.76 per cent recorded in March 2021.

In the same vein, the rural inflation increased to 15.42 per cent in March 2022 with a decrease of 2.18 per cent points from 17.60 per cent recorded in March 2021, it said.

NBS, however, said that on a month-on-month basis, the Urban Index rose to 1.76 per cent in March 2022.

This was up by 0.11 per cent points from 1.65 per cent recorded in February 2022.

The Rural Index rose to 1.73 per cent in March 2022, with 0.12 per cent point increase from 1.61 per cent recorded in February 2022, it said. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

Tobi Olanihun at the launch of The Experience Plug Systems (TEPS), in Lagos

By Busayo Onijala
Ms Tobi Olanihun, Chief Experience Officer, WOW!Connect, says that tech-based solutions are the way forward for the event management industry.

She made this known at the launch of The Experience Plug Systems (TEPS), the first Nigerian digital event platform on Tuesday in Lagos.

The launch, themed The Power of the First Impression Revolutionising the Attendee Experience, featured a live demo of the digital platform.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that TEPS is a platform that helps simplify event management processes from the attendee and events manager perspective.

According to Olanihun, who is also the Founder of TEPS, the platform was created to add value and close the gaps in the provision of value to stakeholders in the events industry.

The events experience curator said TEPS would eliminate a large percentage of the stress that came with event management, adding that the branding collateral was important.

Were going to solve most of the problem in event management but we still need users to come ready to effect change as well.

This is the first of its kind in Nigeria. I am happy we are here at this point and it keeps getting bigger and better.

There are different areas that need to be worked on in the industry and Im assured that by continuous learning, more collaborations and tech solutions, we will keep progressing, she said.

In his keynote address, Babajide Sipe, Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Eco Bank emphasised the need to employ tech solutions in organising successful events, adding that at the heart of every event was the user experience.

He noted that over the last 20 years, the events industry had grown drastically, coupled with the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that events management was not only a big contributor to every countrys GDP and economic empowerment, but also a reflection of the culture and social life of a group of people.

According to him, events management is a total package that starts from pre-planning to the actual organisation, then post-production.

Events are no longer about making money but more about making impact.

TEPS is taking people away from the stress associated with planning straight to the end result. It is important to think of the end product of every event and the experience you want people to take away.

To do things better with automation, seamlessly and excellently, a first of its kind events platform like TEPS is the way to go, Sipe said.

Also, Dr Seun Akinbohun, an event hospitality expert, said things would be a lot smoother if people began to utilise more of technology.

During a panel session, she added that the industry needed to rethink its processes and transition from doing things manually.

Similarly, Kunmi Ariyo, Founder and CEO, Mirus events, said the huge potential of tech had not been explored in Nigeria.

We are getting there but we still have a long way to go. We need to constantly inform our clients of the importance of technology to their guests and overall results.

There is a lot we can do to improve user experience and keep attendees talking about events for many years to come.

According to him, one of the major challenges most events struggle with is the presence of queues at venues, which if can be eliminated, will make events exceptional.(NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Deji Abdulwahab

The Managing Director, Movida Lounge, Abuja, Mr Sunny Onweazu, has called on Nigerian youths to stop the quest for unwholesome wealth known as yahoo and ritual money.

Onweazu, who gave the advice on Friday while celebrating his 47th birthday and 12th Anniversary of Movida Lounge, urged the youth to engage in genuine business.

The problem we have in Nigeria is that youths are not ready to work hard. I have tried a lot of them, but they are not willing, they want easy money.

They dont want to stress themselves; they want to make easy money without going through any difficulty.

Though things are not easy in Nigeria, the only thing that comes easy is bad money, which is called yahoo and ritual money which will not take our youths anywhere, Onweazu said.

According to him, hard work is better and the youth they are running away from it.

This is the problem I always have with them, Onweazu said.

He said that Nigerian youth should start to do something for themselves and get busy, saying that by the time they did that, they would have a better Nigeria.

The hotelier added that the youth should begin to engage in hospitality and entertainment businesses, describing the sector as one of the biggest businesses in the country.

What our youth need to do is to be dedicated and sincere to the business, because some committed stakeholders make more profit in the hospitality business, Onweazu said.

In his speech, the manager of the lounge, Mr Omega Ofoedu, called on the Federal Government to improve on electricity supply to support the hotel business to thrive in the country.

Ofoedu said that before he used to buy diesel at N350 per litre, but now he bought it N700 due to inadequate electricity supply in his hotel.

The President of Movida Parliament, Mr Mfon Ekwere, described the parliament as a forum of friends and customers of Movida Lounge.

Ekwere said that the parliament helped the lounge to get feedback on the challenges and improvements recorded by the lounge in the area of service delivery. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Victor Nwachukwu

George Inalegwu on Friday emerged winner of 14th leg of the Race to Nigeria masters (Pro/Am) tournament at the Arsenal Golf Course in Owerri.

Inalegwu proved why he was one of the best in the race to the Nigeria Masters tour as he dusted his very strong contenders to win the final round and make the cut.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the final round of the 14th leg saw a total of six golfers slugging it out at the lush green of Arsenal Golf course, Owerri.

Unfortunately, early leader, Uchenna Anoruo, whose hopes were high on Thursday went so low in Friday game as he fell into second place giving way for Inalegwu to bounce back to the top.

With three over 75, Inalegwu was able to secure his position at the top as he started his game with a bogey in the 1st and 17th hole.

He also hit a birdie in the 9th, 10th 12th and 16th holes as well as a double bogey in 14th and triple bogey in 5th hole.

The 18 year-old finished with a cumulative of 9 after 72 holes (297).

I did my best and Im happy I came out top on the leaderboard because Golf is not an easy sport, its a game of mental gymnastics, an elated Inalegwu told NAN after the game.

Coming second place was Anoruo who played 74 in the first round, 72 in second round and 74 in the third round to maintain the lead heading into the penultimate round.

Anoruo, however, defaulted in the final round as he went behind, giving way for his closest contender to overtake him.

His game in the final round had a combination of eight bogeys, one birdie and one double bogey which saw him coming with nine over 81, to amass a total cumulative of 13 after 72 holes (301).

Anoruo, who expressed mixed feelings after the game told NAN that although his game wasnt so great, he was happy he didnt go below the second place.

The 14th Leg of the Race to Nigeria Masters (Pro/Am) is scheduled for April 26 to April 29 at the Arsenal Golf Course, Owerri. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Bridget Ikyado/Angela Atabo

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Sir David Osunde Foundation, says it has empowered more than 20,000 poor people since it was established 30 years ago.

The Founder of the organisation, Sir David Osunde, on Friday in Abuja, said that more people with disabilities would be supported during the organisations 30th anniversary on April 18.

Osunde, who was represented by Martin Umeatuegbu, Operations Manager of the Foundation, said that the 20,000 beneficiaries received educational grants, mobility aids, entrepreneurship and skills training and medical care.

According to him, majority of the beneficiaries now live independently, contributing their quota to national development.

He said the foundation was established to create awareness on the need to collectively take care of persons with disabilities and encourage them to be educated.

Osunde said it was through education that they would be able to know and defend their rights.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the anniversary would hold at the Holy Family Society National Pilgrims Centre, Airport road, Abuja.

The foundation would also honour President Muhammadu Buhari and Dame Pauline Tallen, Minister of Women Affairs, for their immense support to people with disabilities in Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News