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Ghana to Host 2025 African Women Conference: Focus on Legacy, Innovation, and Sustainable Development

Toyin Adebayo
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Ghana to Host 2025 African Women Conference: Focus on Legacy, Innovation, and Sustainable Development

The Republic of Ghana will host the 2025 African Women Conference (AWC) from November 19 to 21, bringing together women leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and advocates from across Africa and the diaspora to chart new pathways for gender equity, innovation, and sustainable development.

Themed “Legacy Meets Innovation: Women Forging New Pathways for Africa’s Sustainable Development,” the high-level event will serve as a vibrant platform for policy dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among influential African women and global partners.

In a press statement made available to journalists in Abuja, Co-Convener of the African Women Conference, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, announced that the 9th edition of the AWC will feature keynote addresses, plenary sessions, and strategic roundtables designed to advance women’s participation in governance, digital transformation, and economic leadership.

Dr. Ahmadu noted that this year’s edition would attract First Ladies, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Heads of International Organizations, Civil Society Leaders, and Women in Business from across the continent.

She explained that the decision to host the conference in Ghana, rather than South Africa as earlier planned, followed broad consultations aimed at enhancing accessibility, inclusiveness, and participation the core values on which the AWC was founded.

“The choice of Ghana reflects its enduring commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment. The shift is a strategic step to ensure broader engagement across Africa,” she said.

According to the statement, past editions of the AWC have been held in Namibia, Morocco, Rwanda, The Gambia, Ethiopia, and Zambia, while Nigeria is billed to host the 10th edition in 2026.

The 2025 conference will place special emphasis on digital inclusion, climate resilience, leadership mentoring, and financing for women-led enterprises—key areas driving Africa’s transformation agenda.

This year’s gathering is expected to culminate in a Joint Communiqué and Action Framework that will shape national and regional policies to promote gender inclusion and institutional reforms across Africa.

Since its inception, the African Women Conference has served as a continental rallying point for women’s empowerment, fostering solidarity and collaboration toward achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Tinubu Extols Dele Alake at 69, Describes Him as Loyal Ally and Patriot

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu Extols Dele Alake at 69, Describes Him as Loyal Ally and Patriot

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, on the occasion of his 69th birthday, describing him as a loyal ally, visionary leader, and patriotic Nigerian whose contributions to national growth span decades.

In a congratulatory message released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Dr. Alake for his steadfast commitment to public service, good governance, and national development.

President Tinubu, who recalled his long-standing friendship and collaboration with the Minister, lauded Alake’s remarkable career as a journalist, strategist, and administrator.

He praised his ongoing efforts to reposition the solid minerals sector into a major revenue source for Nigeria through innovative policies, investment promotion, and the formalization of artisanal mining activities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.“

On this special day, I pray that Almighty God continues to bless Dele with good health, wisdom, and strength,” the President said. “He has remained a dependable and loyal ally for several decades.

His unwavering dedication to national progress and public service sets him apart as a true patriot.”

President Tinubu wished Dr. Alake many more years of fruitful service to Nigeria and humanity, noting that his exemplary leadership continues to inspire younger generations in governance and nation-building.

Pay Your Taxes, Enjoy Progress — Wike Tells Abuja Residents

Toyin Adebayo
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Pay Your Taxes, Enjoy Progress — Wike Tells Abuja Residents

***Says Tinubu’s Vision Is Transforming FCT into a Global Model City

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has urged residents and business owners in Abuja to pay their taxes faithfully, emphasizing that tax compliance is key to sustaining President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing infrastructure revolution in the nation’s capital.

Speaking at the flag-off of new road and drainage projects in Asokoro Extension on Monday, Wike said the government’s ability to deliver quality roads, drainages, and streetlights depends largely on revenue from taxpayers.

“All these good roads, drainages, and streetlights wouldn’t be possible if you don’t pay your taxes,” the Minister said. “As we say, ‘Dis soup sweet, na money kill am.’ If you don’t have money to buy the right ingredients, the soup won’t taste good. In the same way, if we don’t have funds, we can’t deliver the kind of city Abuja deserves.”

He described tax payment as a shared responsibility that guarantees better living standards for all.

“When you pay your taxes, you’re buying comfort, safety, and pride for Abuja. Let’s all do our part to make this city the pride of the nation,” he added.

Wike noted that the Asokoro project is part of the Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, aimed at transforming Abuja into a world-class city.

“What you see in developed countries isn’t magic it’s the result of leadership commitment. That’s exactly what Mr. President has brought to Abuja,” he said.

The Minister revealed that in just ten days, the FCT Administration had flagged off several projects, including roads, water schemes, and streetlighting, both in the city and satellite towns.

“By the time these projects are completed, Asokoro will rank among the most beautiful districts in Abuja,” he assured.

Wike also highlighted the job creation impact of the ongoing projects, noting that the construction boom has absorbed many young Nigerians.

“Everywhere you go, construction is ongoing and that means jobs for our young people. That’s the Renewed Hope agenda in action,” he said.

He further disclosed that the FCT Administration would soon commence the rehabilitation of 40 schools and roll out new projects in the health sector, continuing the administration’s holistic development approach.

“We’ve touched transport, roads, sports, and education. Now we’re moving to health. No sector will be left untouched,” he stated.

Wike urged residents to remain patient and supportive, noting that infrastructural transformation takes time and resources.

“The Abuja of two years ago is not the same today and by tomorrow, it will be even better,” he concluded.

CAN President Okoh Urges Churches, Nigerians to Back Measles-Rubella Vaccination Drive

Toyin Adebayo
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CAN President Okoh Urges Churches, Nigerians to Back Measles-Rubella Vaccination Drive

***Commends First Lady, Health Ministry for Championing Child Health in Nigeria

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop (Dr.) Daniel C. Okoh, has called on churches, parents, and communities nationwide to support the Federal Government’s ongoing measles-rubella vaccination campaign, describing it as a bold and transformative initiative to protect Nigeria’s children from preventable diseases.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony of the Nationwide Integrated Measles-Rubella Vaccine Campaign held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Aso Villa Conference Hall, Abuja, Archbishop Okoh applauded the government’s commitment to reducing child mortality and strengthening the public health system.

“This campaign, which integrates measles-rubella, polio, anti-malaria, and neglected tropical diseases interventions, demonstrates the seriousness and commitment of the Federal Government and its partners in safeguarding the health and future of our children and communities,” he stated.

Okoh noted that the introduction of the measles-rubella vaccine into Nigeria’s national immunization schedule is a major milestone in the country’s public health journey. He emphasized that the initiative reflects renewed dedication to ensuring no child is left vulnerable to preventable illnesses.

The CAN President recalled that earlier in the year, the association met with the C-WINS and Measles-Rubella Coalition, where CAN pledged its full support for the nationwide campaign. “We have fulfilled that promise by mobilizing all five blocs of CAN in readiness for the mass rollout of this vaccine,” he said.

He stressed that the wellbeing of citizens remains fundamental to Nigeria’s progress, saying:

“As faith leaders, we recognize that the health of our people is central to national development. A healthy population is the foundation for productivity, innovation, and peace.”

Okoh commended Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, for her leadership and advocacy in championing the vaccination campaign. He also lauded the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and development partners for their collaborative effort in making the campaign a reality.

He urged parents, caregivers, and church leaders across the country to ensure that every eligible child receives the vaccine, stressing that mass participation is key to the success of the initiative.

“We call on all parents, caregivers, and communities across Nigeria to take full advantage of this opportunity by ensuring that every child is vaccinated and protected. We also encourage our churches nationwide to actively support awareness and mobilization efforts,” Okoh said.

The CAN leader concluded with a prayer for national unity and progress, expressing hope that the campaign would contribute to building “a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.”

The Nationwide Integrated Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and aims to protect millions of Nigerian children from life-threatening but preventable diseases, strengthening the country’s drive toward universal health coverage.

Africa Must Stop Powering Other Economies with Its Minerals — Alake

Toyin Adebayo
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Africa Must Stop Powering Other Economies with Its Minerals — Alake

…Pushes for Value Addition, Industrial Revolution Across the Continent

Minister of Solid Minerals Development and Chairman of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), Dr. Dele Alake, has called on African nations to end the decades-long cycle of exporting raw minerals, urging them instead to use their abundant natural resources to power the continent’s own industrial transformation.

Speaking at the African Mining Week in Cape Town, South Africa, themed “Vision & Strategy: Setting the Stage for Minerals Industrialization,” Alake lamented that Africa’s vast mineral wealth continues to drive industrialization in other regions while the continent remains underdeveloped.

“Africa’s minerals have powered industrialization elsewhere while our own economies remain under-industrialized. This paradox must end,” Alake declared in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Segun Tomori, on Sunday.

“Our vision must be clear to move from extractive dependence to transformative industrialization.”

He emphasized that the continent must no longer be content as a supplier of raw materials but rather emerge as a global hub for mineral processing, technological innovation, and green industrialization.

Highlighting the continent’s strategic role in the global economy, the Minister noted that Africa holds some of the world’s richest deposits of minerals essential for clean energy, digital technology, advanced manufacturing, and global security.

“Our youth should no longer seek jobs abroad while opportunities lie buried beneath their feet. The time to industrialize is now,” he stated.
“Let us set the stage for an Africa that is not just a participant in the global minerals economy but a driver of its future.”

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Farouk Yabo, Alake used the opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s ongoing reforms in the solid minerals sector, including incentives for local beneficiation in gold refining and lithium processing, the revocation of dormant licenses, and the creation of a National Critical Minerals Strategy to attract credible investors.

He revealed that Nigeria is digitizing mining processes to enhance data accessibility and mineral traceability, while ongoing amendments to the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act aim to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks for sustainable growth.

At the AMSG Ministerial Roundtable held on the sidelines of the event, Alake reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030 through value addition, transparency, and industrial development.

“We are investing in digital systems and building strong institutions that ensure every Nigerian mineral is traceable and sourced only from licensed operators or registered artisanal miners,” he affirmed.

Echoing similar sentiments from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Alake urged African nations to embark on comprehensive national mineral mapping exercises to fully understand their resource potential and ensure proper regulation.

“After national mapping, countries must ensure only licensed operators are mining. We must also build adequate capacity for effective supervision,” he said.

During Nigeria’s Country Spotlight Session, the Permanent Secretary highlighted the nation’s investment-friendly reforms, fiscal incentives, and vast mineral endowments, positioning Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s mining future.

The African Mining Week attracted ministers from DRC, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Ghana, alongside key private-sector stakeholders and investors committed to unlocking Africa’s mineral-driven prosperity.

Abuja’s Infrastructure Revolution Attracts Global Investors, Says Wike

Toyin Adebayo
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Abuja’s Infrastructure Revolution Attracts Global Investors, Says Wike

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has said that Abuja’s ongoing infrastructure revolution has begun attracting global investors, with one of them set to replicate Dubai’s world-class City Walk project in Nigeria’s capital.

Speaking on Friday at the flag-off of the Transit Way (N2) linking the Central Area with Wuse District and two strategic bridges, Wike described the project as a bold step in transforming Abuja into a modern city.

“If the infrastructures are not there, investors will not come. But because they saw what we are doing in Abuja, they said they will replicate Dubai’s City Walk here,” Wike stated.

The Minister stressed that no city could achieve meaningful development without a strong network of roads. According to him, the FCT Administration is investing heavily in road expansion and connectivity as a foundation for Abuja’s transformation.

“When all the cities are linked with good road networks, then you talk about development. That is the only way Abuja can become a truly modern city,” he said.

Highlighting progress in the education sector, Wike revealed that out of over 70 school projects currently ongoing, almost 45 have been completed. He also directed health officials to speed up delivery of healthcare projects, warning that time would not be wasted under his leadership.

“Every sector must be touched. If you don’t know how to meet deadlines, go and learn from those who are working with the speed I demand,” he warned.

On security, the Minister tasked responsible officials to ensure the completion and handover of no fewer than 12 new police stations across the FCT. He insisted that delays would no longer be tolerated.

“The assignment is to hand over these police stations to strengthen security in Abuja. Anyone who fails will give way for others ready to work,” he said firmly.

Wike admitted that bold reforms often attract criticism, but emphasized that the FCT Administration was determined to deliver on President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“When you are doing your work, people may hate you. They may resort to blackmail, but our focus is to transform Abuja, and we will not be distracted,” he maintained.

In her remarks, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the flag-off of the Transit Way (N2) and the bridges marks another milestone in the city’s growth.

“This project strengthens connectivity, eases traffic congestion, and promotes seamless movement within the FCT. It is another testimony to the Renewed Hope Agenda, translating into practical dividends for residents,” Mahmoud stated.

She also commended the National Assembly for its legislative backing, noting that their support has been instrumental in making large-scale projects possible.

Court Throws Out Suit Challenging Tinubu’s Emergency Rule in Rivers

Gladys Phillip
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Court Throws Out Suit Challenging Tinubu’s Emergency Rule in Rivers

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday dismissed a suit seeking to nullify President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025.

Presiding Judge, Justice James Omotosho, ruled that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the matter, noting that only the Supreme Court can decide such constitutional issues.

The suit, filed by Belema Briggs and four others, was thrown out on the grounds that the plaintiffs lacked the locus standi (legal standing) to challenge the presidential proclamation.

Justice Omotosho held that none of the plaintiffs was a member of the Rivers State Executive Committee or House of Assembly, nor did they show they had suffered any injury beyond that of other citizens of the state.

He added that President Tinubu’s justification for the emergency rule to prevent an imminent breakdown of law and order was not disputed, and that the plaintiffs had no authorization from the Rivers State Attorney General to institute the case.

The court further dismissed the claim of fundamental rights violation, holding that the President acted within the law to avert chaos.

Consequently, Justice Omotosho described the case as “frivolous and baseless,” stressing that the plaintiffs could not sue on behalf of the people of Rivers State without their mandate.

It will be recalled that Tinubu’s emergency declaration suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, while an administrator was appointed to oversee the state’s affairs.

Lassa Fever: Nigeria Records 11 New Cases, Two Deaths in Week 37 – NCDC

Toyin Adebayo
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Lassa Fever: Nigeria Records 11 New Cases, Two Deaths in Week 37 – NCDC

Nigeria has recorded 11 new confirmed cases of Lassa fever and two deaths in epidemiological week 37 (September 8–14, 2025), according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC, said the latest figures bring the total number of confirmed cases this year to 895 with 166 deaths, representing a case fatality rate of 18.5 percent.

“Although we recorded a slight decline from 13 confirmed cases in week 36 to 11 in week 37, the fatality rate remains a concern and underscores the need for early detection, prompt treatment, and community vigilance,” Idris said.

The report revealed that the disease continues to affect multiple parts of the country, with Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states accounting for 90 percent of all confirmed cases. A total of 21 states and 106 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have reported infections in 2025.

The NCDC noted that the majority of cases occurred among people aged 21–30 years, with a median age of 30, and a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8. No new infections were reported among health care workers during the week under review.

To strengthen the response, Idris disclosed that the agency has deployed national rapid response teams to affected states, intensified training for clinicians, distributed personal protective equipment to treatment centers, and scaled up community awareness campaigns.

“We urge states to sustain year-round public sensitisation, improve environmental sanitation, and encourage people to present early when symptoms occur. Health workers should also maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever, especially in endemic areas,” he stressed.

The NCDC further identified challenges including late presentation of cases, high cost of treatment, and poor awareness in rural communities. It also warned that without stronger state-level engagement, the fatality rate may remain above the threshold recorded in previous years.

Since January, Nigeria has logged 7,673 suspected cases of Lassa fever, and the agency is working with partners to support surveillance, clinical management, and ongoing research, including a new trial in Ondo State.

Wike Lights Up Abuja: Minister Flags Off Hybrid Solar Streetlight Project, Promises End to Darkness , Sabotage

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Wike Lights Up Abuja: Minister Flags Off Hybrid Solar Streetlight Project, Promises End to Darkness , Sabotage

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared a decisive end to the era of darkness and sabotage in Abuja’s streetlight system, assuring residents that the capital city will be fully illuminated within the next seven months.

Wike, who spoke at the official flag-off of the Installation of Integrated (Hybrid) Solar Lighting in Abuja Districts, Lot I and II, described the project as a landmark intervention to restore security, safety, and the city’s global image.

“Today’s event is very difficult in the sense that this project is important but has given us a lot of headache. Not in conceptualization, but in how it will work, because in this country, people are always sabotaging government efforts. When we came on board in August 2023, almost 80 percent of Abuja was in darkness. Darkness breeds insecurity, and we could not continue that way,” the minister said.

The N30 billion project, undertaken in partnership with Chinese firms CGC and CCECC, will feature modern surveillance systems to deter cable theft and vandalism, while placing maintenance responsibility on contractors for the next four to five years a move Wike said will save the administration huge financial losses.

“If I tell you how much we spent every month on streetlight maintenance, you will be shocked. Political contractors were taking money, yet the city remained dark. This time, there will be no more files for maintenance because the companies will bear that responsibility. With surveillance and security features, it will no longer be business as usual for vandals and saboteurs,” he stressed.

The minister acknowledged that entrenched interests might resist the project through propaganda, political blackmail, and ethnic or religious sentiments but maintained that the administration would not be deterred.

“From today, you will hear all sorts of names. Some will go to social media, others will use television and radio, but we are not bothered. We have taken a decision in the best interest of the people and, by the grace of God, Abuja will shine again,” Wike vowed.

He added that the initiative, which will be completed ahead of Abuja’s 50th anniversary next February, will not only enhance security and beauty but also create jobs and promote the FCT as a smart, modern city ready to host international events.

Also speaking, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the project goes beyond providing streetlights, noting its role in sustainability and environmental protection.

“This project will improve security for residents and businesses, promote clean and renewable energy, and reduce the city’s carbon footprint. More importantly, it aligns with the Administration’s Smart City Agenda, making Abuja a model for sustainable urban living,” Mahmoud stated.

The project is expected to transform Abuja’s night-time outlook, boost safety, and eliminate years of financial leakages associated with streetlight maintenance.

Nigeria @65: APC Hails Citizens, Says Tinubu’s Bold Reforms Delivering Growth, Stability

Roland Edet
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Nigeria @65: APC Hails Citizens, Says Tinubu’s Bold Reforms Delivering Growth, Stability

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, describing the milestone as a “new dawn of infinite possibilities” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.

In a statement on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party commended the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and praised citizens for their resilience, unity, and patriotism despite decades of challenges.

“Today, we especially celebrate all Nigerians for their abiding faith, confidence and commitment to peace, unity and progress of our dear country,” the party said.

APC said Tinubu’s reform agenda was already yielding measurable results, citing five consecutive quarters of trade surplus, record oil output, rising non-oil revenue, and macroeconomic stability.

According to the party, inflation has declined to 20.1 percent, foreign reserves climbed above $42 billion, and GDP growth surged to 4.28 percent in the second quarter of 2025 beating the IMF’s 3.5 percent forecast.

The party further highlighted fiscal and monetary reforms, including reducing the revenue-to-debt servicing ratio from 97 percent to below 50 percent, while naira stability has boosted investor confidence.

“Our ship of state, under the hands of the inimitably bold and visionary President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, now sails confidently in steady and calmer waters on a charted course to a clear destination of stability, growth, and development anchored firmly on solid economic foundations,” the statement read.

Acknowledging the hardship from fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, APC insisted the measures laid the foundation for long-term recovery, alongside investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and the creative industry that are creating jobs.

It also reaffirmed the administration’s focus on fighting insurgency and corruption, urging Nigerians to sustain their support to “build a Nigeria of our collective dream.”

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