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Tag: Akure

  • NCC Commissions Transformative E-Health Project in Akure, Revolutionising Patient Care Through ICT

    NCC Commissions Transformative E-Health Project in Akure, Revolutionising Patient Care Through ICT

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today officially commissioned a pioneering e-Health Project at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, Ondo State. This significant initiative marks a pivotal step in leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to fundamentally improve and revolutionize Nigeria’s healthcare sector, ensuring more efficient and accessible services for all citizens.

    Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the dual impact of the project during his commissioning speech. “The completion of this e-Health Project is a testament to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s commitment to driving innovation, research, and growth in our nation’s digital economy,” Dr. Maida stated. “First, ICT can better integrate the health sector into the digital economy… Secondly, healthy citizens contribute better to the digital economy even as they access care from e-health platforms. We thus enhance the quality of medical services and ensure that services are accessible to all, regardless of geographical location, by integrating advanced ICT solutions into healthcare.”

    The newly implemented e-health solution is set to streamline medical processes, enhance patient care, and facilitate the efficient management of health records within the hospital. Equipped with innovative technology, healthcare professionals in Akure will now be empowered to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care, leading to improved patient satisfaction and better health outcomes across the community.

    Dr. Maida further highlighted the collaborative spirit that brought the project to fruition. “This project succeeded because of stakeholders who worked with NCC, including technology experts and the government. This collaboration has created a model that can be replicated and scaled to other regions, ensuring that the advantages of ICT in healthcare are felt nationwide.” He concluded by expressing gratitude to all contributors, underscoring that “it is through such collaborative endeavours that we can continue to drive progress and innovation in our country.”

    The commissioning of the Akure e-Health Project signals the NCC’s ongoing dedication to fostering a digitally inclusive nation where technology serves as a cornerstone for enhancing critical sectors like healthcare, ultimately improving the lives of Nigerians.

  • Emirates and Air Peace sign interline agreement, expanding travel choices to 13 cities in Nigeria

    Emirates and Air Peace sign interline agreement, expanding travel choices to 13 cities in Nigeria

    Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has signed an interline agreement with West Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, enhancing connectivity for passengers travelling to and from Nigeria. The partnership expands Emirates’ footprint to 13 new cities in Nigeria with frictionless single-ticket travel and simplified baggage throughput.

    Travellers booked on flights from Dubai to Lagos can access more of Nigeria, with onward connections to Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna and Owerri. The interline agreement will also benefit corporate travellers, connecting to additional cities in one of Africa’s major economic hubs, including its capital city Abuja, Kano, Uyo, Port Harcourt and Warri, further supporting the strong bilateral trade relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.

    Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Emirates is a steadfast partner of Nigeria’s tourism, trade and aviation sectors. This partnership with Air Peace is the next step on this journey, bolstering our connectivity and introducing more travel options for corporate leisure, and travellers visiting friends and family to and from Nigeria. We look forward to deepening our strategic partnership with Air Peace in the future to enhance the benefits for our mutual customers.”

    Oluwatoyin Olajide, Chief Operating Officer, Air Peace said,”We are excited about this strategic interline partnership between Air Peace and Emirates, which is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity for Nigerian travelers.  It aligns with our mission to provide seamless, world-class travel experiences while expanding our route network and international reach. This collaboration not only expands Air Peace’s international reach but also offers Nigerians arriving from Dubai seamless access to key domestic destinations, including Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, and Owerri. By improving ease of travel, we are boosting business, tourism, and trade opportunities, further strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE. This partnership also reinforces Nigeria’s aviation sector by enhancing connectivity, efficiency and positioning our country as a critical hub for regional and global travel. At Air Peace, we remain committed to providing greater connectivity, convenience, and world-class service for our passengers.”

    Emirates’ Dubai-Lagos route is operated with a Boeing 777-300ER, offering the best experience in the sky. Passengers can dine on regionally inspired multi-course menus and a wide selection of premium beverages, while enjoying over 6,500 channels of global entertainment, including 23 Nigerian movies, in addition to series and other content on ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system. As one of only two airlines operating First Class into Lagos, the partnership enables more travellers from Nigeria to experience Emirates’ unrivalled experience with luxurious touches, defined by comfort and privacy.

    Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline, provides seamless connections domestically and internationally, via a fleet of aircraft, comprised of Airbus 320s, Boeing 737s, Boeing 777s, Dornier 328-300 Jets, Embraer 145s, and Embraer 195-E2s.

    Emirates offers near-unrivalled global connectivity, which is further amplified by its extensive partnership network. In Africa, the airline’s footprint expands to over 223 regional points through 5 codeshare and 19 interline partners, providing better connection opportunities to both holiday destinations and emerging economic centres on the continent.

    Customers can book their travel now on emirates.com, Emirates Retail Stores, the Emirates app, and preferred travel agencies.

  • Top finalists emerge in 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition

    Top finalists emerge in 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition

    The top finalists have emerged for the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year competition organised by the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund. The final 11 top candidates finalists emerged tops out of the 136 teachers who made it to the second phase grading by the panel of judges following the first grading of 1300 teachers that were successful out of the 1477 total number entries received for the competition.

    The list of the top finalists includes Aniefiok Iniobong Udoh of Community Secondary Commercial School, Ikot Oku Ikono, Akwa Ibom State, Nwosu Chinenye Augustina of Anthony Obaze Memorial Community Secondary School, Ogbaru LGA, Anambra, Ojo Olumuyiwa Olumide of Apex Group of School, Ibillo, Akoko Edo, Edo State, Ojo Olufunke Adewunmi of Praise Worthy Secondary School, Ikota Ekiti, Eki State, Akinyele Samuel of Kingdom Seed International School, Lokoja, Kogi State.  

    Other finalists include Abidoye Aderonke Ibiyemi of Kosofe Senior College, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Lagos State, Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu of Crown Grace School, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Kehinde Oladapo  Olukayode of Molusi College, Oke Sopen, Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State, Isaac Michael Ayodele of CAC Grammar School, Akure, Ondo State, Famuyide Florence Bola of Olatunde Comprehensive High School, Owena- Ijesa, Osun State and Abiodun Regina Nwagbo of Mother’s Joy College, Ibadan, Oyo State.

    Speaking on the emergence of the top finalists, the Corporate Affairs Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Sade Morgan, applauded the panel of judges for the rigorous work they had done during the selection process

    Morgan also lauded the level of scrutiny deployed by the jurors during the different phases of grading, which clearly demonstrated the competition’s transparency and fairness. She urged the finalists to continue to put their best foot forward in their quest to become the eventual winner.

    Now in its 10th edition, the winner of the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition will be determined after the esteemed panel of judges rigorously interviews and evaluates the finalists.  

    The grand finale of the event billed to hold on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, will witness the announcement and recognition of the winner by the Special Guest of Honour, the Honourable Minster of State for Education, Hon. Dr. Yussuf Sununu and Chief Host, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo Olu.

    Since inception, more than two hundred teachers have been recognized and rewarded with mouthwatering prizes.

  • Nigerian Breweries Brings “The Big Weekend Experience 2.0” to Onitsha, Warri and Akure This Easter

    Nigerian Breweries Brings “The Big Weekend Experience 2.0” to Onitsha, Warri and Akure This Easter

    Nigerian Breweries, the pioneer and largest brewing company in Nigeria, is set to host the second edition of the “Big Weekend Experience” across three cities simultaneously – Onitsha, Warri, and Akure. The event promises an exciting celebration of beer, featuring Nigerian Breweries’ top brands, live musical performances, and the opportunity to win fantastic prizes.

    Kicking off at 2 pm in each city, beer lovers can anticipate a thrilling day filled with good vibes, great music, cold beer, and the chance to win incredible prizes. The event will showcase Nigerian Breweries’ flagship brands, including the iconic Goldberg lager and the refreshing Life beer. Additionally, attendees can look forward to sampling the full range of Nigerian Breweries’ portfolio, which includes the newest addition, the bold and exciting Legend Twist.

    Mfon Bassey, the National Trade Marketing Manager at Nigerian Breweries Plc, expressed great enthusiasm for the upcoming events. “We’re tremendously excited to take our ‘Big Weekend Experience’ to the next level this year, starting with huge parties in three cities on Easter Sunday,” said Bassey. “Onitsha, Warri, and Akure are in for unforgettable nights filled with a lineup of notable artiste, incredible music, and that signature Nigerian Breweries energy. The Big Weekend Experience is our way of creating memorable experiences for our consumers and thanking them for their unwavering support and loyalty over the years. It’s more than just a party; it’s about celebrating the incredible consumers who have made our brands what they are today.”

    These Easter activations mark the beginning of the Big Weekend Experience 2.0, which will continue across Nigeria in the upcoming weeks and months.

  • NASENI EVC Reiterates Commitment To Delivering On Presidential Priorities, Inaugurates Staff Welfare Committee

    NASENI EVC Reiterates Commitment To Delivering On Presidential Priorities, Inaugurates Staff Welfare Committee

    The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Halilu, has charged the management staff of the Agency to put forward ideas on how NASENI can effectively support the priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu such as large-scale switching of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles to alternative fuels to reduce the cost of living for Nigerians.


    He stated this as he began receiving briefings from the Managing Directors of the Agency’s ten (10) Development Institutes, situated in Enugu, Minna, Awka, Okene, Nnewi, Kano, Jalingo, Akure, Ilesha and Nasarawa.

    According to Halilu, “Our Institutes are the engines of NASENI’s innovation and these briefings by each Institute are critical as we work together to craft the future of NASENI, as it relates to delivering on the President’s socio-economic agenda.”

    In addition to the Managing Directors, Team Leads of various NASENI projects, as well as the Agency’s Research Directors, also made presentations to the EVC on their various projects and efforts.

    The briefings, which commenced on Monday September 18, 2023, are taking place ahead of the EVC’s planned tour of NASENI facilities across the institutes scheduled to commence in October.

    Also on Tuesday, September 19, the EVC/CEO inaugurated a Committee to look into staff welfare, as part of steps to fulfil his pledge, upon assuming office, to ensure that NASENI becomes “a public sector employer of choice in Nigeria.”

    The EVC tasked the Committee—made up exclusively of middle-level and junior staff of NASENI—with producing a Human Resources (HR) revamp plan for NASENI. According to the EVC, “Our junior staff are indeed the ones on the frontlines of our work, bearing the biggest burdens, and therefore deserving of special attention, support and welfare.”

    To round off the week, the EVC/CEO paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, on Friday September 22, at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.

    Commenting on the meeting, which discussed opportunities for collaboration in advancing research in methanol production, lithium mining, and natural medicine, the EVC/CEO said, both institutions were “keen to jointly commercialize existing research outputs,” adding that “I have no doubt that NASENI has a strong and committed partner, in the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology.”

    Also on Friday, Halilu met with a young Nigerian innovator based in Maiduguri, Borno State, Mustapha Gajibo, who specializes in converting petrol-fired vehicles to use gas and solar energy. “There’s no limit to what young Nigerians can achieve in science and technology, and at NASENI we want to be a part of these inspiring stories from every corner of the country,” said the EVC/CEO.

  • Feature: Mandate for the Minister for Manufacturing

    Feature: Mandate for the Minister for Manufacturing

    Personally, I am disappointed that President Tinubu did not appoint a dedicated minister for manufacturing with a mandate to turn the following cities into specialist industrial zones:

    Ayo Akinfe

    [1] Nnewi – Automobile manufacturing
    [2] Akure – Cocoa processing and chocolate
    [3] Orlu – Pharmaceuticals
    [4] Aba – Clothing and footwear
    [5] Abeokuta – Railway carriages and engines
    [6] Kano – Groundnut, neem, millet and sorghum processing
    [7] Damaturu – Dairy products
    [8] Port Harcourt – Shipbuilding, boatmaking and fishing equipment
    [9] Calabar – Aircraft assembly
    [10] Ajaokuta – Steel, machine tools and metal manufacturing
    [11] Asaba – Wood products and furniture
    [12] Lokoja – Hydroelectric power generation
    [13] Sokoto – Solar farm
    [14] Ikot-Abasi – Port handling equipment
    [15] Maiduguri – Solar panels and electricity transformers
    [16] Uyo – Windmills
    [17] Badagry – Coconut and cashew processing
    [18] Ilorin – Sugar production
    [19] Makurdi – Yam and cassava processing
    [20] Minna – Shea nut and kolanut processing

  • Professor Kole Omotoso is dead

    Professor Kole Omotoso is dead

    By Isa Isawade

    Professor of English and renowned writer, Bankole Ajibabi Omotoso, popularly known as Kole Omotoso, has died at 80 in Cape Town, South Africa. He had lived in Centurion, Gauteng, South Africa for many years.

    The family, in a short message announcing the demise of the highly revered intellectual, said “Our beloved father and husband moved on from this plane on Wednesday 19th late afternoon. We are sharing this with his close and much-loved community and will share more as we gather ourselves. “Thank you for your care and love and support.”

    In South Africa, he was best known for his works of fiction and as the “Yebo Gogo man” in adverts for the telecommunications company, Vodacom.

    The renowned intellectual was born on April 21, 1943, in Akure, Ondo State, South West, Nigeria.


    Omotoso attended the Kings College, Lagos, and the University of Ibadan and later undertook a doctoral thesis on the modern Arabic writer, Ahmad Ba Kathir at the University of Edinburgh. He returned to his alma mater, the University of Ibadan, to teach Arabic studies between 1972 and 1976 from where he moved to the University of Ife to work in drama from 1976 to 1988.

    Prof. Omotoso started writing for various magazines (including West Africa) in the 1970s. He was regarded as a member of Nigeria’s literate elites.

    According to Wikipedia, Omotoso’s 1988 historical novel about Nigeria, Just Before Dawn (Spectrum Books), was controversial and led him to leave Nigeria.

    After visiting professorships in English at the University of Stirling and the National University of Lesotho and a spell at the Talawa Theatre Company, London, he became a professor of English at the University of the Western Cape in South Africa (1991–2000).
    He was a professor in the Drama Department at Stellenbosch University between 2001 and 2003.

    He also wrote a number of columns in African newspapers, most notably the “Trouble Travels” column in Nigeria’s Sunday Guardian from 2013 to 2016.

    He was a patron of the Etisalat Prize for Literature.

    In the mid-1990s and 2010s, he appeared as the “Yebo Gogo man” in several television advertisements for Vodacom mobile phones.

    His fictional works include The Edifice (1971); The Combat (1972; Penguin Classics, 2008, ISBN 978-0143185536)
    Miracles (short stories) (1973); Fela’s Choice (1974); Sacrifice (1974, 1978); The Scales (1976); To Borrow a Wandering Leaf (1978); Memories of Our Recent Boom (1982), and Just Before Dawn (Spectrum Books, 1988, ISBN 9789782460073).

    His non-fictional books include The Form of the African Novel (1979 etc.); The Theatrical Into Theatre: a study of the Drama and Theatre of the English-speaking Caribbean (1982); Season of Migration to the South: Africa’s crises reconsidered (1994); Achebe or Soyinka? A Study in Contrasts (1995), and Woza Africa (1997). His works in drama are The Curse (1976) and Shadows in the Horizon (1977).

    Prof. Omotoso’s contributions to literary art remain iconic.

    He is survived by his wife and children, including filmmaker, Akin Omotoso and writer, Yewande Omotoso.

    Similarly another writer, Professor Chris Anyokwu of the University of Lagos, wrote this poem to honour him.

    For Kole Omotosho, who just died today @ 80
     
    He spoke
    Just before dawn
    Of a people snailing rapidly towards night
    Of mystical beasts
    Ripping the heart
    Out of the soul
    Of a corralled contraption.
    He’d sought to wrestle
    To earth vampires of rift
    And nail the iniquities of class to common lintels.
    Cape to Cairo
    He traversed haranguing
    Vendors of common hate. Ambidextrous, nimble of tongue,
    He rose at dawn
    Facing the East
    Bringing the infinitudes
    of Oriental splendor.
    Savant of truth
    Aesthete extraordinaire,
    Kole collected sundry
    Nectars from petars
    In bloom across the sable world.
    But time, friend and foe
    Alike stole in gnarling
    The stout Iroko
    To willowy fern, drifting
    Towards the westering horizon in paling hues
    Until…silence.
    Prisoner like all,
    Your walls crumbled
    Flakes before the fated ferry, and, dropping robes
    Of flesh, you have soared
    Beyond time

  • NESG announces Tayo Aduloju as the next Chief Executive Officer

    NESG announces Tayo Aduloju as the next Chief Executive Officer

    The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Tayo Aduloju as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective January 1, 2024. Dr. Aduloju, who currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Senior Fellow for Economic Policy, Strategy, and Competitiveness, will succeed the esteemed CEO, Mr. ‘Laoye Jaiyeola, upon the completion of his two-term tenure.

    Under Mr. Jaiyeola’s transformational leadership, NESG has taken a quantum leap, utilising technology and data to promote the inclusive and sustainable growth of Nigeria’s economy while upholding its core principles of a free-market economy, the rule of law, and governance in the national interest. The Chairman, Board of Directors, NESG Mr. Niyi Yusuf, expresses heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Jaiyeola for his dedicated service and impact.

    As the incoming CEO, Dr. Tayo Aduloju brings exceptional vision and expertise to NESG. A distinguished scholar-practitioner, economist, policy entrepreneur, and strategist, he has contributed significantly to various reform initiatives, spanning sectors such as aviation, agriculture, finance, governance, maritime and public service. Dr. Aduloju’s experience includes advising former Presidents Yar’Adua and Obasanjo, as well as spearheading the NESG’s national public-private leadership forums and promoting sustainable development.

    Dr. Tayo Aduloju, with an illustrous academic background as an alumnus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, University of Oxford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, possesses the ideal qualifications to lead NESG through its upcoming phase. Notably, Dr. Aduloju holds several distinguished accolades, including the Walden University 2022 Citizens Award for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. He has earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Economic Policy and Public Administration. Dr. Aduloju is also a graduate and alumnus of the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, in addition to holding an Executive Certificate in Economic Development from Harvard Kennedy School. He is a fellow of esteemed professional institutions, including The Chief of Staff Association, the Institute of Strategic Management in Nigeria, and the Institute of Management Consultants in the United States.

    Established in 1996, NESG is a non-profit, non-partisan organisation dedicated to advancing economic reform in Nigeria. Through its research, programs, and engagement, NESG has become the leading platform for public-private dialogue, fostering collaboration among the government, private sector, and stakeholders. NESG’s commitment to creating a modern, globally competitive, sustainable, inclusive, and open economy remains unwavering.

    NESG looks forward to Dr. Aduloju’s visionary leadership as its 6th CEO and the continued pursuit of its mission to transform the Nigerian economy. The organisation remains committed to driving positive change, facilitating crucial reforms, and collaboration to shape a prosperous future for Nigeria.

  • MTN Foundation Revamps 15 School Laboratories, Commissions Three In Government Secondary School Owerri

    MTN Foundation Revamps 15 School Laboratories, Commissions Three In Government Secondary School Owerri

    MTN Foundation on Thursday, January 12, 2023, officially commissioned the newly-renovated science laboratory at Government Secondary School, Owerri. The project, which is part of the second phase of the Foundation’s Science and Technology Laboratory initiative, is designed to improve the teaching standards and learning outcomes of science subjects in public secondary schools. 

    Following a set criteria for the nomination, four secondary schools (Government Secondary School Owerri; St Augustine College, Igbuzor; St. Aquinas College, Akure and Queens College, Lagos) emerged as recipients for the second phase of the Science and Technology Laboratory initiative. Each school received full renovation of their Chemistry, Physics and Biology science laboratories including; installation of laboratory furniture, solar-powered borehole and alternative power solution, supply of laboratory equipment and consumables and training of laboratory staff.


    Speaking at the commissioning in Owerri, Executive Governor, Imo state, Hope Uzodinma, represented at the event by the Imo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. JohnCliff Nwadike, said that the science laboratories, would encourage the students to enhance their knowledge on science, technology and innovation. He also commended the Foundation for effectively carrying out  its corporate social responsibilities to the people. “The laudable zest with which MTN carries out its corporate social responsibility is clear for all to see. This administration remains committed to quality education at all levels, hence our readiness to support MTNF and other stakeholders who take the initiative to encourage us “ he said. 

    Also speaking at the commissioning, Director, MTN Foundation, Dennis Okoro stated that the Foundation is committed to supporting government effort in the area of education. “The MTN Foundation has over the years been complementing Government’s efforts around youth development through the deployment of relevant initiatives. The Science and Technology Laboratory Project is one of such initiatives, where we have identified the need to improve science and technology education, through the remodelling and upgrading of science laboratories in public secondary schools”  he added.

    In the past, the MTN Foundation has renovated science laboratories in 22 schools across several states in Nigeria including; Lagos, Abuja, Edo, Kwara, Katsina, Bauchi and Abia.

  • Meshioye Elected 11th President of MAN

    Meshioye Elected 11th President of MAN

    Otunba Francis Meshioye has been elected as the 11th President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). The change of baton took place at the just concluded 50th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, Nigeria. This followed the completion of the highly successful four-year tenure of Engr. Mansur Ahmed, OFR.

    The election of the new President took place during the 50th Annual General Meeting of the foremost business membership association held on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 in Lagos.

    The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria is an advocacy group with a vision “to be the key driver for Industrialization, sustainable Economic Growth and Development in Nigeria” and was established in 1971 as an umbrella Organization to protect and project the interest of manufacturing industries in Nigeria. It is a focal point for communication and consultation between industry on the one hand, and the government and general public on the other.

    Newly elected President, Otunba Francis Meshioye, is an Executive Director, JMG Limited and some other business corporations, amongst which are, JMG Power Generators Limited, Jamara Operations Limited, Octopus Microfinance Bank and ET & F Investment Ltd. He is on the board of government parastatal and member of several government Committees. 

    Prior to becoming President of the Association, he served as Chairman of the Infrastructure Committee; Chairman of MAN Ikeja Branch; Chairman, Finance and Establishment Committee and Vice President, Lagos Zone of the Association.

    The newly elected President, Otunba Francis Meshioye will bring his wealth of experiences in the Management of Corporate organisations to bear on the leadership of over 2,500 membership organization.

    He is an Alumnus of the Prestigious Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) where he obtained Masters degree in Business administration (MBA) in Technology, Marketing and Business Strategy. He also holds a Master’s Degree in International Management as well as a Law Degree, both from the University of Liverpool, England.

  • Two Scientific Works Win The Nigeria Prize for Science, 2022

    Two Scientific Works Win The Nigeria Prize for Science, 2022

    The 2022 edition of  The Nigeria Prize for Science today, announced two most outstanding works on “Gains in Grain Yield of Released Maize (Zea Mays L.) Cultivars under Drought and Well-Watered Conditions” by Muhydideen Oyekunle and Shehu Ado;and “Development of Process Plant for Plantain Flour” by Sesan Peter Ayodeji and Emmanuel Olatunji Olatomilola, as winners of the $100,000 prize money.

    The Prize’s Advisory Board, led by Professor Barth Nnaji, announced the judges’ verdict based on the 2022 theme “Innovations in Sustainable Food Security” at a press conference in Lagos. This is coming after the 2021 cycle, which was based on the same theme, ended without a winner.

    In his remarks on the verdict, Mr. Andy Odeh, NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, said the Science Prize is growing in strength as the 2022 verdict depicts. He stated that the Advisory Board and NLNG are working behind the scenes to review the prize for bigger impact and inclusiveness for the good of society. He emphasized that science can provide solutions to most of the country’s challenges and urged relevant stakeholders and the public to continue to support NLNG through the Nigeria Prize for Science to make scientific breakthroughs the biggest enabler of development in Nigeria, adding that industry and public investors should consider the commercial value of the winning works.

    While commending the winners for the big feat, Mr. Odeh called on all past winners of the prize to synergize and become a think-tank that can generate and sustain the flow of ideas, innovation, and scientific advice to the public and private sectors, adding that this will make scientific ideas and innovations beneficial to Nigerians, thereby helping to build a better Nigeria, in line with NLNG’s vision.  

    He stated further that the winning works have the potential to significantly impact the country’s food security positively, guaranteeing a stable, efficient, and sufficient system of food production.

    Referring to the judges’ report, Professor Nnaji said the work(s) addressed food security which is a key component of our national agenda. “At the global level, Goal 2 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) seeks sustainable solutions to end hunger in all its forms by 2030 and to achieve food security. This entails improving the productivity and incomes of small-scale farmers by promoting equal access to land, technology and markets, resilient agricultural practices, and sustainable food production systems”, he stated.

    Professor Nnaji said the choice of the judges reflects a multi-disciplinary approach relevant to the theme in focus. He added that “the advisory board is particularly pleased that in evaluating the entries, the judges upheld the objectives of the prize which seeks to identify and promote excellence in utilizing scientific knowledge for the achievement of desired solutions”.

    Muhyideen Oyekunle and Shehu Ado’s work on “Gains in Grain Yield of Released Maize (Zea Mays L.) Cultivars under Drought and Well Watered Conditions” provides us with a unique opportunity. The maize seeds they selected courtesy of breeding programme has been tested to be high yielding and water stress tolerant. The hybrids they selected records yields of 1.73-2.51 t/ha in stress areas and 5-6 t/ha in areas with good rainfall distribution in farmers’ fields.

    Sesan Peter Ayodeji and Emmanuel Olatunji Olatomilola’s work on “Development of Process Plant for Plantain Flour” is important for reducing spoilage of farm products and package for distribution as well as value addition for farm products. It is resourceful in scaling up from batch production to industrial scale continuous flour production relevant beyond plantain to other food items.

    He commended the Board and Management of Nigeria LNG for instituting, sponsoring, and sustaining what is arguably the biggest Science Prize in Africa.

    Winners of this year’s edition of the prize are Muhyideen Oyekunle, a Maize Breeder and Lecturer at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, and his colleague Prof Shehu Garki Ado, an agricultural expert, eminent academic, and researcher of international repute. He is a professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding and is currently the vice-chancellor of Al-Qalam University Katsina.

    Professor Sesan Peter Ayodeji is a professor of Machine & Process Design and Applied Ergonomics at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and his colleague is Emmanuel Olatunji Olatomilola.

    The decision on the winning entries was reached by a panel of judges, led by Professor Christian Ugwu Agbo. Professor Agbo is a professor in the Department of Agriculture at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Other members on the panel are Ms. Funke Opeke and Prof Mohammed Magaji. Ms. Opeke is an experienced telecommunications executive and the founder/CEO of MainOne while Professor Magaji is a professor of Agronomy at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.

    For the Advisory Board of the NigeriaPrize for Science, in addition to Professor Nnaji, are Chief Dr. Nike Akande, a two-time minister and former President Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Professor Yusuf Abubakar, a professor of Animal Breeding and Quantitative Genetics and the Coordinator of Agriculture Group, R & D Standing Committee, at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund.

  • Fidelity Bank to Sensitize Businesses in North Central Zone on Opportunities in Non-Oil Exports

    Fidelity Bank to Sensitize Businesses in North Central Zone on Opportunities in Non-Oil Exports

    Following successful outings in Kano and Akure, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, is set to host businesses in the north central geopolitical zone to a special seminar on opportunities and implementation of the CBN RT200 FX Policy.

    Scheduled for Tuesday, 12 April 2022 in Jos, Plateau State capital, the session would be facilitated by officials of the bank as well as representatives from key stakeholders in the Nigerian financial services and export industries.

    Tasked on what attendees should expect from the seminar, Isaiah Ndukwe, Divisional Head, Export and Agriculture, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “The new policy will trigger shifts in the business landscape and realignments will be necessary to take advantage of the emerging opportunities. We have therefore put this workshop together to sensitize and guide businesses in making more informed decisions towards expanding their export play”.

    Launched on February 10, 2022 by the apex bank as part of measures to reduce the increasing demand for foreign currency by importers, the RT200 FX Programme aims to raise $200billion in foreign exchange earnings in the next three to five years through non-oil exports.

    The policy is anchored on the Non-oil Exports Proceeds Repatriation Rebate Scheme which will incentivize exporters in the non-oil sector to repatriate and sell export proceeds in the FX market to generate sustainable FX inflows and guide the Nigerian economy against FX shortages and shocks.

    “Driven by our vision of establishing exports as a strategic business play given the immense opportunities it bodes for our customers and the nation’s economy, we regularly deploy initiatives such as this in collaboration with forward-thinking organisations. This is why we have become the go-to bank for existing and aspiring export businesses”, explained Ndukwe.

    It would be recalled that Fidelity Bank hosted the first edition of the workshop in Kano State on 21 February 2022 and the second leg on 14 March 2022 in Akure, Ondo State capital to encourage adoption of the CBN RT200 FX Policy.

    Fidelity Bank is a full-fledged commercial bank operating in Nigeria with over 6.5 million customers serviced across its 250 business offices and digital banking channels. The bank was recently recognized as the Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking & Finance Awards. The bank has also won awards for the “Fastest Growing Bank” and “MSME & Entrepreneurship Financing Bank of the Year” at the 2021 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Buhari Approves 5 New Varsities, With N5b Take-Off Grant

    Buhari Approves 5 New Varsities, With N5b Take-Off Grant

    President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the establishment of five new universities specialised in technology and health to close the huge gap in the doctor-patient ratio as well as in medical research and production of pharmaceutical products.

    He also approved a take-off grant of N4 billion each for the Universities of Technology and N5 billion each for the Universities of Health Science from the funding resources of TETFund to ensure early take-off of the institutions.

    The Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Education, Arch Sonny Echono who disclosed this on Monday in Abuja said the president approved two additional University of Technology in Jigawa and Akwa Ibom states.

    Also, the establishment of National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Abuja and two specialized universities in Health, Nutrition and Medical Sciences to be located at Azare, Bauchi State and Ila Orangun, Osun State.

    Echono also disclosed that the president approved that four existing Universities of Technology located in Yola, Akure, Owerri and Minna be upgraded and equipped.

    He said, “The two new Universities of Technology will be established in 2021 while the upgrade of the existing four Universities of Technology and the National Institute of Technology will come on stream next year.”

    The Permanent Secretary said the specialized universities would lay a solid foundation for building national preparedness and resilience in anticipation of future challenges in the health sector while reducing medical tourism to countries like India, UAE, Egypt, Europe and the USA.

    While noting that the presidents had promised to establish an apex National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Abuja with six Satellite Universities of Technology, one in each geo-political zone of the country, he said the objective is to stimulate rapid technological transformation of the country.

    “The Institute shall be patterned after similar institutions in Singapore and Malaysia to serve essentially as a postgraduate centre devoted to research and innovation, drawing the best graduates from the six Universities of Technology, as well as other exceptional graduates from reputable universities within and outside Nigeria,” he said.

    He however noted that the Federal Ministry of Education will collaborate with the Federal Ministries of Health, Science and Technology, Communications and Digital Economy, the FCT Administration as well as other relevant agencies and Institutions to facilitate speedy actualization of these Projects.

    Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary also hinted Journalists that the president has also approved new Vice Chancellors for all universities in the country and that the details will be made available in due course.

  • Akeredolu appoints Female SSG, others

    Akeredolu appoints Female SSG, others

    Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi,SAN, has approved the appointment of Princess Catherine Oludunni Odu as Secretary to the State Government.

    In a statement by Princess Odu, a legal practitioner, was the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) before her appointment. She holds the following Degrees:
    • LLM (University of Lagos)
    •Bachelor Of Law(Nigerian Law School)
    •Bachelor of Law(University of Lagos)
    •Master of Science (Industrial Sociology, University of Calabar) and,
    •BSc. Sociology (University of Benin).

    Princess Odu has served in many capacities at both the State and Federal levels. She was Federal Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission and at different times, former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Education respectively.

    Her appointment is in recognition of her proven integrity and outstanding record of performance in her previous assignments.

    Similarly, Governor Akeredolu has approved the appointment of the immediate-past Head of the State Public Service, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye as Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties.

    Other appointments approved by the Governor include:

    i. Mrs. Olubunmi Adedipe Ademosu – Special Adviser, Public and Intergovernmental Relations.

    ii. Hon. Babatunde Gabriel Kolawole – Special Adviser, Rural and Community Development.

    iii. Mr. Summy Smart Francis – Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship Development.

    The appointments take immediate effect.

    The appointees will be sworn in by the Governor on Monday, March 22, 2021 at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s office Alagbaka, Akure at 1pm.

    Governor Akeredolu congratulates the new appointees while urging them to discharge their duties with utmost responsibilities deserving of the new offices and the accompanying responsibilities.