By Mufutau Ojo

Chief Executives of African news agencies are converging on Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the formal opening of the Sixth General Assembly of the Atlantic Federation of African Press Agencies (FAAPA) on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the forum is expected to open with an inaugural seminar themed: Post COVID: Challenges and Opportunities for African News Agencies

The draft agenda of the Sixth Assembly sighted by NAN indicated that very important issues such as the Action Plan of FAAPA for 2022 and 2023 would also be discussed.

The forum would also review the fifth edition of the General Assembly of FAAPA.

Participants would further discuss co-operation and partnership agreements as well as the bodys financial report among others.

NAN, a council member of FAAPA, is being represented by its Managing Director, Mr Buki Ponle.

NAN reports that FAAPA was established on Oct.14, 2014, with headquarters in Rabat, Morocco.

NAN also reports that FAAPA is dedicated to the promotion of exchange of experiences and information, training of personnel and sharing of ideas on the future of news agencies.

The group now has 28 members, with links with Alliance of Mediterranean News Agencies and News Agencies World Congress.

FAAPA maintains website,, that aggregates some of the stories published by member agencies. (NAN)

Edited by Julius Toba-Jegede

Source: NAN News

By Salisu Sani-Idris

A U.S-based Nigerian author, Khuraira Musa, said on Wednesday that the government should not be blamed for all the incidences of out-of-school children in the country.

The author gave the advice on Wednesday at a news conference heralding the launching of her biography, titled, The Audacity of an African Girl, scheduled to hold Saturday in Abuja.

The founder of Zainab Memorial School, Jebbu-Bassa, said that the government has little or no control over what one becomes in the future.

She, therefore, emphasised the need fo parents to redouble commitment towards educating their children, especially the girl-child.

Musa, who is a renowned makeup artist with more than 25 years of experience, said education was the key that opened doors for her.

The government has no control of what you should be. I was in Ruga, I didnt even know what government was. I wanted to go to school and my parents supported me.

So, sometimes the government cant be blamed for everything, I am not saying that the government doesnt have faults, but you have to want something so bad and your parents need to push you. Everything needs to start from home.

The reason why sometimes it is a problem with the government is that the parents are not doing their part. So, why dont we start looking at parents before we even point accusing fingers at the government?

If I had gone to Aunt Zainab that I was going to school and she said I should stay at home and sell Nono, how will the government know? How can the government be blamed for my inability to attend school?, she added.

Speaking on the book, the author, who is equally the founder of Arewa Development Support Initiative (ADSI), a capacity-building initiative with presence in all 19 states of the North, said the book was born out of her desire to tell her own story.

Musa said: The Audacity of an African Girl is the story of the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit.

It recalls my personal journey and how I went from being a young girl in a Fulani settlement in Northern Nigeria to the apogee of success and affluence in New York.

The book entertains, upsets, and most importantly inspires readers to push themselves and become the very best that they can be.

It reflects the strength of how all odds were stacked against me and, and how through courage and determination, I emerged victorious in the face of so many daunting misfortunes.

The narrative follows a class of its own and shines bright amongst stories of hope coming out of Africa when life is tempest-tossed. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Source: NAN News

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), has urged journalists and CSOs to collaborate with the bureau to ensure public trust and confidence in official statistics.

The Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the NBS, Prince Semiu Adeniran, said this at a retreat for Journalists and Civil Society Organisation (CSOs) in Keffi on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retreat was organised by the NBS.

According to Adeniran, this is necessary so that the policies of the government, which are underpinned by the data disseminated by the NBS will have a better chance of making an impact.

This is very significant even as we go into the season of a general election where a lot of statistics and numbers will be quoted and used to score political points.

Our actions and output must be and must be seen to be objective, honest and reflective of the true circumstances of the situation at hand.

We must also seek ways to individually and collectively enhance our capacities to analyse and interpret the indicators and numbers produced by the statistical system, and not just quote verbatim what is written in the reports.

In doing so, we will facilitate better communication and reporting of the indicators and their meaning to the general public and all users of the data, as well as cultivate an interest in statistics within the society.

He said the role of the media and CSOs in the growth and development of a society could not be overemphasised.

The statistician-general also said that the role of statistics in providing evidence that informs public policies, debates, programmes, and interventions of government was critical.

According to him, just like the Siamese twins, we are all joined together at the hip, meaning that we need each other to function effectively and successfully.

There is no question as to whether the media and civil society should work with the statistical system, but more about how we can strengthen our working relationship, and enhance it for better effectiveness and results.

I believe that is exactly what this retreat is designed to achieve.

The Director of Communications and Public Relations, Mr Joel Ichedi not Joshua , said the retreat was aimed at bringing journalists and CSOs, the management of the Bureau and experts together to discuss issues arising from statistical reporting in Nigeria.

Ichedi said the aim was to avoid mistakes in the reporting of statistical data covering all facets of Nigerias development to the public.

This is important given the fact that statistics is used by both private and public sectors and individuals in decision-making.

For a credible decision, the information disseminated in the form of data to the general public must be accurate to achieve data-guided policy, planning and implementation for national development.

He advised participants to actively participate in the discussions on the topics to technically and operationally improve their knowledge of the issues.

Ichedi said by so doing, they would ensure fact-based reportage of the NBS data on all areas of Nigerias development to the public.

Mr Ofomhi Christopher, who represented the CSOs said they were ready to collaborate with the bureau to ensure it succeeds in its mandate.

We understand the agencys challenges, as CSOs we want to be a voice of change and advocate for better performance and we will always be a voice of change.

Some data may not be favourable to the government but we as CSOs are ready to stand by the bureau and ensure the statistician-general succeeds in his endeavours.

Dr Onejefu Okidu, the media representative, thanked the NBS for organising the retreat, which he said would help journalists interpret statistical data to report it accurately to the public. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Source: NAN News

By Taiye Olayemi

As Nigeria and China celebrate independence and national day anniversary, the Chioma Ajunwa Foundation has given recognition award to the Chinese community in Nigeria

Founder of the foundation, Chioma Ajunwa, in a statement on Wednesday said the Chinese community in Nigeriahad contributed significantly tofostering the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

According to Ajunwa, the award was part of activities of the 2022 Mid-Autumn Festival/China National Day and Nigeria Independence Day celebration, held on Monday in Lagos.

Ajunwa said, This recognition award is designed to stimulate the humanitarian efforts of Chinese community in Nigeria. Over the years, the Chinese community has constantly supported Nigerians in every area of life.

I urge the Chinese community to continue with the good work they have started in making the society a better place.

Dr Eric Ni, Chairman, Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association, said that the Chinese community regularly supported the needy.

We have supported different orphanage homes, schools and also assisted several low income earners in the society.

Recently, we supported 50 families each with N100,000 cash and gift items like KVA generators and food items, while we awarded scholarships to 63 students.

We believe in appreciating the communitiy and strengthening the good relationship between the Peoples Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

All these were possible with the support of over 90 Chinese businesses in Nigeria. Today, this award is to thank all Chinese business owners and all other Chinese individuals, who have helped in making this a reality, he said.

China and Nigeria are considered as closest allies and partners, the relationship has expanded on growing bilateral trade and strategic cooperation, both nations celebrate their National and Independence Day on Oct. 1st. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Source: NAN News

By Cecilia Ologunagba

New York, Oct. 5, 2022 (NAN) The World Health Organisation (WHO), on Tuesday launched the first-ever research blueprint for tackling dementia.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the WHO said worldwide,around 55 million people have dementia, with over 60 per cent living in low- and middle-income countries.

The world health body said as the proportion of older people in the population is increasing in nearly every country, this number is expected to rise to 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050

According to the UN health agency, dementia is one of the greatest health challenges of our generation.

Although dementia is the seventh leading cause of death globally, dementia research accounts for less than 1.5 per cent of total health research output, WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan, said in a statement.

Sadly, we are falling behind implementing the Global action plan on the public health response to dementia 2017-25, she said, adding that addressing dementia comprehensively requires research and innovation to be an integral part of the response.

Strategies are needed to better understand, prevent, and treat the underlying diseases that cause dementia and, at the same time, provide care and support to people who suffer from it, as well as those who care for them.

Research needs to be conducted within an enabling environment, where collaborations are fostered, and equitable and sustained investment is realised, the UN health agency maintained.

Those are the objectives behind WHOs new blueprint for dementia research, the first WHO initiative of its kind for noncommunicable diseases.

Its designed to provide guidance to policy makers, funders, and the research community on dementia research, making it more efficient, equitable, and impactful.

WHO is encouraging national and international research agencies, together with financing bodies, to use the blueprint to inform upcoming funding and operationalise research.

At the same time, civil society should ensure that advocacy efforts are also aligned, supporting a more equitable, efficient, and collaborative research landscape. (NAN) (www.nanews.ng)

CIA/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

By Peter Uwumarogie

The Gombe State government on Tuesday inaugurated a Revenue Recovery Tribunal to curb tax evasion and boost revenue generation in the state.

Gov. Inuwa Yahaya while inaugurating the tribunal, in Gombe, said the move was aimed at strengthening the revenue system to ensure provision of social amenities to citizens for the overall development of the state.

He said the establishment of the tribunal would serve as catalyst to boost its revenue base and provide the needed resources to fast track social and economic development of the state.

According to him, the tribunal is a necessary body charged with the mandate to enhance speedy adjudication of revenue matters such as levies, taxes, charges, penalties and fines due to the state and local government areas.

The governor expressed optimism that the tribunal would assist in addressing sharp practices hindering effective revenue administration such as tax evasion and erring revenue collectors.

One issue of great concern is the disturbing corrupt attitudes and habits of revenue collectors, a lot of revenue is being lost as a result of nonchalant attitude and corrupt tendencies of tax collectors.

It is my believe that the tribunal will take necessary steps to address these issues and support the states Internal Revenue Service in its bid to generate more revenue for the development of the state, he said.

The tribunal, he said, would facilitate ease of doing business by guaranteeing fairness and transparency of the tax system as well as enhance tax payers confidence.

It will help curtail delays and bottlenecks in adjudication of tax matters in conventional courts, he said.

The governor urged tax payers and tax paying entities to ensure prompt payment of taxes to enable the government to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

Earlier, Chairman of the Tribunal, Mr Muhammad Jungudo said part of the mandate of the tribunal was to settle disputes arising from the operations of this State Revenue !aw and any other related regulations.

The Tribunal shall also have power to hear and determine matters arising from tax/revenue default and matters relating to revenue, taxes, charges, levies, fees, fine due to the state or local government as contained in the law.

It has both civil and criminal jurisdictions. Apart from dealing with civil monetary claims of parties, it can impose payment of fines and imprisonment term to deserving parties where necessary, he said.

Also speaking, Alhaji Abubakar Tata, Chairman, Gombe State Internal Revenue Service said the tribunal would addressing nagging problems affecting its operations.

He noted revenue generation was key to Gov Yahaya-led administration efforts to deliver good governance to the people of the state.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

Source: NAN News

By Shauib Sadiq

The Zamfara Government has approved the immediate implementation of N30,000 minimum wage for the State workforce.

This is contained in a statement on Wednesday in Gusau, by Mr Babangida Umar, the Director-General Press Affairs, Office of the Deputy Governor.

The Deputy Governor, Sen. Hassan Nasiha, made this known while receiving the agreement and copies of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the government and trade unions in the state.

He expressed satisfaction with the show of maturity and understanding demonstrated by the labour unions during the negotiation and engagement with government officials.

Their understanding led to the amicable resolutions to implement the N30,000 minimum wage in November.

The current economic situation and the lingering security challenges are among factors government considered before agreeing to implement the new wage, he said.

He commended the Amb Bashir Yuguda-led committee that represented the government in reaching an amicable resolution with the trade unions.

The labour unions, represented by Mr Sani Halilu, state Chairman NLC thanked the state government for accepting to implement the new wage for workers.

He commended the workers for supporting the unions during the struggle for the wage increases.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

By Tolu Aiyegbusi

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mr Adepoju Sunday as the new Postmaster General (PMG)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST).

This is contained in a statement signed by Uwa Suleiman, the spokesperson to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

Suleiman said: The appointment followed the recommendations made by Pantami.

She said that Sunday was appointed for an initial term of five years.

The new appointeeis a professional accountant and a former member of the House of Representatives who represented Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo state.

The appointment of the new PMG of NIPOST is with immediate effect. (NAN)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, has solicited support for the Armed Forces Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Centre of the Defense and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA).

Irabor made the call at the ground-breaking and foundation stone laying ceremony of the PTSD Centre at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment Giri Abuja on Tuesday.

He commended DEPOWA for the initiative considering the involvement of military personnel in protracted operations across the country and other parts of the world to restore peace and security.

According to him, men and women of the armed forces remain the first beneficiaries of the establishment of this centre, saying the project would also be of high value to all Nigerians.

Having realised that for us to perform optimally in the frontline, there has to be the awareness of safety for the women.

Let me as Chief of Defence Staff appeal to you, our wives. We may have had several times been irrational in our homes and may have experienced some signs of PTSD.

I want to say that your understanding by virtue of this project as to what perhaps may have led us to act the way we did in the past is something that we will stand ready to support you, knowing that you are partners and ensuring that we play our roles even in the front lines.

I want to crave the indulgence of all invitees and those who may be watching to do well to support the armed forces of Nigeria and the police and other security agencies in reversing the security challenges in this country.

It is in this light that I also want to appeal to you to make generous donations towards the establishment of this centre, he said.

Irabor reiterated the loyalty of members of the armed forces to President Buhari in his quest to bequite a Nigeria that is safe to all Nigerians at the end of his tenure.

The Vice President of Liberia, Dr Jewel Howard-Taylor, commended the armed forces of Nigeria for the stabilization role they had continued to play in Africa especially the West African sub-region.

Howard-Taylor said the establishment of PTSD for the armed forces was a giant step toward addressing the enduring challenges of in-service and retired military personnel who experienced trauma.

She commended DEPOWA for taking the lead in addressing the effects of isolation that often manifested not only by the members of the armed forces but also among members of their families.

The Liberian vice president urged the Nigerian government to support the initiative and continue to be a leading example to African countries and beyond.

She also urged other African countries to take a cue from the wives of the Nigerian military officers and provide a safe place for armed forces to get the care that they deserve.

Former President of Malawi, Dr Joyce Banda, said the establishment of a PTSD centre in Nigeria was an eye opener for her, challenging the entire Africa to learn from Nigeria for setting such an example.

Banda said that the countries in Africa had been in denial and ignored the fact that there was no PTSD on the continent which according to her had many young people suffer in silence.

According to her, the time is up, Nigeria has set an example today to do something about their sons and daughters who sacrificed so much for our safety and good life.

She commended the women for taking the lead, adding that women had always taken the lead in development in the continent and across the globe.

On her part, Baroness Sandy Verma, Member, U.K House of Lords, said the centre would be the first of its kind in the African continent, urging global leaders across the world to recognise it as a necessity.

Verma said that whenever a nation sent its military personnel to defend them, they sent them off knowing that they might not come back or might come back injured.

She said the world had failed to recognise for so long the visibility of mental health, trauma and being able to rehabilitate them back into life.

That is why I was so pleased and so honored to be amongst this incredibly important, precious gathering here today because this marks a real turning point in how we will view post-traumatic stress disorder.

It is incumbent on all of us who expect so much from our personnel that go out to defend our nation to ensure that this facility is going to be such a monumental reminder to the rest of the world on how much needs to be done around his traumatic stress disorder.

I have worked tirelessly to support women and girls across the globe and I know the UK government is a close partner and friend of Nigeria.

And I will reach out and ensure that those of us who have the position to be able to speak on this beyond the boundaries of Nigeria know that you need to be a sustainable, long-lasting institution, the world-class and State-of-the-art institution that will not just look after your personnel, but be an example for how other countries will need to do the same in their nations.

So I will pledge. Thats all I will take back on behalf of businesses that I work with on a regular basis to look at how they can be supportive of this initiative.

This requires a real long-term plan, it requires sustainable resources and the will of all of us who depend on all of our personnel to keep us safe, she added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ground-breaking and foundation laying was performed by the First Lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Source: NAN News