Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment to attract and sustain investments in the state.
The governor made this known during an inspection of facilities at a private steel manufacturing company in Ogua Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.
Governor Okpebholo commended the company for its contributions to the state’s economic development and job creation, assuring them of the government’s support in fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Promoting Local Inclusion and Responsibility
While praising the company’s impact, the governor appealed for greater inclusion of Edo indigenes in management roles and emphasized the importance of corporate social responsibility.
“Your contributions to the state are commendable. You have generated employment and enhanced our economy. However, we urge you to ensure our people are part of your management team to foster inclusivity. Also, be faithful in fulfilling your social responsibility to the community and state,” he stated.
Company’s Commitment to Collaboration
In response, the Chairman of the company, Xianghai Zhang, represented by the Managing Director, Frank Wang, expressed gratitude for the governor’s visit and pledged to support his administration’s vision.
“We are proud to be part of Edo State’s ecosystem and are committed to collaborating with your administration to build a business-friendly environment. Together, we can achieve growth, development, and prosperity for the state,” Wang said.
The company also promised to encourage other investors to consider Edo State as a prime destination for business.
Driving Economic Development
Governor Okpebholo’s administration is focused on positioning Edo State as an attractive investment hub. His appeal for inclusive management practices and commitment to enabling policies underscores the state’s dedication to sustainable economic growth.
This collaboration between the state government and private sector stakeholders highlights a shared vision to enhance Edo State’s economic landscape while ensuring its people benefit directly from developmental efforts.
In a bid to empower Nigerian youth and foster their potential, the Federal Government has inaugurated a technical committee to establish the National Youth Bank. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, aims to provide young people with the financial support, mentorship, and resources needed to achieve their ambitions and drive transformative change.
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, presided over the inauguration ceremony, charging the committee with the responsibility of laying a solid foundation for the Youth Bank. He emphasized the importance of designing a robust governance structure, an operational model, and a comprehensive strategy that ensures transparency, accountability, and sustainability.
A Platform for Youth Empowerment
Olawande described the Youth Bank as a dynamic platform that aligns with the Presidential Mandate to support young innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
“The Youth Bank will not only provide financial capital but also capacity-building and mentorship opportunities to empower youth from all backgrounds, irrespective of their socioeconomic status or location,” the Minister said.
He further tasked the committee with building strategic partnerships with financial institutions and stakeholders to guarantee the bank’s success and expansion.
Key Stakeholders and Partnerships
Olawande expressed gratitude to the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), which will co-chair the initiative, and acknowledged the support of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BOI), Ministry of Finance, and Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).
The Minister also commended the commitment of the Ministry’s management staff, emphasizing their dedication to advancing youth empowerment.
Stakeholder Contributions
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, highlighted the significance of the committee, noting that many Nigerian youth lack the resources and networks necessary to actualize their aspirations.
Mr. Boneventure Okhaimo of the BOI pledged the institution’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry and stakeholders to bring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to life. Similarly, Mr. John S. Onoja of the CBN affirmed the apex bank’s commitment to expediting the Youth Bank’s registration and licensing once all prerequisites are met.
Vision for the Future
The Youth Bank initiative seeks to bridge the financial gap faced by young Nigerians and create an inclusive environment where they can thrive as innovators and entrepreneurs. With a focus on capacity building and long-term sustainability, the Youth Bank is positioned to play a transformative role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
This groundbreaking initiative underscores the Federal Government’s dedication to investing in the nation’s youth, recognizing their potential as key drivers of economic and social progress.
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to increase funding for Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Fund to ₦100 million in the 2025 budget, emphasizing the critical need to address the country’s growing tobacco-related health challenges.
During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, lawmakers highlighted the inadequacy of the current allocation of ₦10 million, urging significant financial reinforcement to combat the health and economic burdens posed by tobacco consumption.
Motion for Tobacco Control Fund Boost
The motion, titled “Need for the Federal Government to Increase Budgetary Allocation to Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Fund,” was sponsored by Hon. Bassey Akiba, representing Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency in Cross River State.
Akiba noted that Section 8 of the National Tobacco Control Act 2015 mandates funding for the National Tobacco Control Committee to enforce compliance with the Act. He lamented the grossly inadequate allocation in previous budgets, despite a commendable increase from ₦4.7 million to ₦10 million in 2024.
“While the increase shows progress, it is insufficient to address the pressing needs of the underfunded Tobacco Control Fund housed under the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare,” Akiba argued.
Health and Economic Impact of Tobacco Use
Akiba outlined the devastating effects of tobacco use in Nigeria, describing it as a leading cause of preventable deaths, responsible for nearly 30,000 fatalities annually and reducing life expectancy by about a decade. He cited alarming statistics:
Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, with 70 known carcinogens.
Secondhand smoke increases the risk of heart attacks in non-smokers by 60% and lung cancer by 30%.
“Scientific evidence shows no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke,” he stressed.
The lawmaker also warned of the strain on Nigeria’s healthcare system caused by tobacco-related illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and cancer, urging immediate action to mitigate these risks.
Benefits of Adequate Funding
The House emphasized that increasing the allocation to ₦100 million would enable:
Effective enforcement of the Tobacco Control Act, including bans on public smoking and tobacco product advertising.
Empowering government agencies to operate independently, reducing reliance on international donors or tobacco industry stakeholders.
Strengthening preventive measures to reduce tobacco-related illnesses and deaths.
Call to Action
Lawmakers reiterated the need for the Federal Government to prioritize tobacco control as a public health and economic imperative. They affirmed their commitment to addressing the funding gap, ensuring Nigeria aligns with global best practices in tobacco control.
The motion’s adoption underscores the House’s resolve to safeguard public health, urging the Federal Government to act decisively in the fight against tobacco-related diseases.
Faith leaders play a pivotal role in promoting family planning and addressing Nigeria’s demographic challenges, as emphasized by experts at the 8th Nigeria Family Planning Conference – Youth and Interfaith Pre-Conference.
Integrating Family Planning into Cultural Practices
Prof. Oladapo Ladipo, Co-founder of the Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH), advocated for faith leaders to incorporate family planning messages into community life events such as weddings, naming ceremonies, and even burials. “Family planning should be preached at these gatherings to normalize its acceptance and adoption,” Ladipo stressed, highlighting their influence in breaking cultural barriers.
Role of Faith Leaders in Male Involvement
Rev. Isaac Gbadero of Interfaith ZIFSAM in Zaria emphasized the importance of engaging men in family planning conversations, calling on faith leaders to champion this cause. “Faith leaders are trusted moral guides whose advocacy can overcome societal barriers hindering women’s access to family planning services,” he said.
Community-Centric Advocacy
Dr. Ejike Oji, Chairman of the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP), noted the unique credibility faith leaders hold within communities. “Their influence often surpasses that of politicians, making them instrumental in fostering societal acceptance of family planning,” Oji remarked.
Progress and Challenges
Barr. Nma Ogbonna, Head of Health Promotion at the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), celebrated Nigeria’s progress in family planning through enhanced policies, legal frameworks, and partnerships.
However, Dr. Dele Abegunde, Country Director of Population Council Nigeria, pointed out persistent barriers such as cultural norms, misinformation, and fear of side effects. He urged faith leaders to dispel myths, particularly misconceptions about infertility linked to contraceptive use.
Youth-Specific Family Planning Strategies
Jason Bremner, Senior Director for Family Planning 2030, highlighted the unique needs of Nigerian youth. Married youth often prefer implants and injectables, while unmarried sexually active youth rely on less effective methods like withdrawal and condoms. “Meeting youth where they are with tailored education and counseling is essential to guide them toward effective contraceptive choices,” Bremner advised.
Call for Collaboration
The conference underscored the need for collaboration among faith leaders, policymakers, and healthcare providers. Integrating family planning advocacy into the cultural and social fabric of Nigerian communities, experts argued, could transform attitudes, reduce barriers, and improve reproductive health outcomes nationwide.
By leveraging the trusted voices of faith leaders, Nigeria stands poised to address its demographic challenges and enhance family planning practices across all societal levels.
Speaking at the 8th Nigeria Family Planning Conference – Youth and Interfaith Pre-Conference, he emphasized that, “Family planning should be preached at weddings, naming ceremonies, and even burials.”
Highlighting the potential of faith leaders, Ladipo noted their influence in fostering societal change and breaking barriers to family planning practices.
Also, Rev. Isaac Gbadero of Interfaith ZIFSAM, Zaria, reinforced the call, focusing on the critical role of faith leaders in encouraging male involvement in family planning.
“Faith leaders are trusted voices who guide morals and spirituality; their advocacy opens doors previously closed to discussions on family planning,” Gbadero said, adding that men’s engagement is vital to overcoming societal barriers for women accessing services.
Dr. Ejike Oji, Chairman of the Management Committee for the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP), highlighted the profound influence of faith leaders, often surpassing that of politicians.
“Faith leaders’ advocacy resonates with communities more deeply than political efforts, making them essential in addressing Nigeria’s demographic challenges,” he stated.
Barr. Nma Ogbonna, Head of the Health Promotion Division at the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), lauded the progress Nigeria has made in family planning, noting significant changes in perceptions over time.
“Through protective healthcare and health promotion, a lot has changed. Legal frameworks, policies, and partnerships are driving this transformation,” Ogbonna said.
Dr. Dele Abegunde, Country Director of Population Council Nigeria, outlined key barriers to male involvement in family planning, including cultural norms, fear of side effects, and misinformation.
He emphasized the role of faith leaders in dispelling misconceptions, such as fears of infertility caused by contraceptives, and promoting accurate, community-specific messaging.
In a related development, Jason Bremner, Data and Measurement Senior Director for Family Planning 2030, addressed the unique contraceptive preferences of Nigerian youth.
He noted that among married youth, implants and injectables are the most popular methods, while unmarried sexually active youth rely on less effective options such as withdrawal and condoms.
“Meeting youth where they are, providing the right information, education, and counseling, is essential to guide them toward effective contraceptive options,” Bremner said, calling for strategies that consider the specific needs of adolescents.
The conference underscored the importance of faith leaders, policymakers, and health professionals working together to promote family planning.
As stakeholders emphasized, integrating these efforts into the cultural and social fabric of communities can transform attitudes, reduce barriers, and improve reproductive health outcomes nationwide.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has disclosed a significant investment of $1,045,176,470 (approximately N177 billion) in education infrastructure, showcasing his administration’s prioritization of the sector.
This commitment includes a N3.5 billion counterpart funding contribution from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), highlighting the administration’s collaborative approach to education development.
Education Spending Surpasses UNESCO Benchmark
Speaking at the 6th International Conference on Learning Cities in Jubail Industrial City, Saudi Arabia, Wike, represented by FCT Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, emphasized that Abuja’s annual education budget has exceeded UNESCO’s 26% benchmark for member nations.
He noted that this benchmark ensures countries adequately address critical education needs, including teacher training, infrastructure, and educational technology.
“It might interest my audience to know that Abuja’s annual budget for education surpasses the UNESCO benchmark,” Wike remarked.
Achievements in Educational Infrastructure
The minister highlighted key achievements in education infrastructure:
Renovation of Schools: A total of 21 primary and junior secondary schools have been completely renovated.
Establishment of Senior Secondary Schools: Thirty new senior secondary schools have been built.
Tertiary Education: N14.5 billion has been allocated to complete and launch the FCT University in Abaji.
Focus on Teacher Training and Inclusivity
Wike reiterated the administration’s dedication to teacher training and retraining programs, ensuring quality education delivery across the FCT’s six area councils.
He also reaffirmed Abuja’s commitment to maintaining its status as a UNESCO Learning City, adopting a “whole school” approach that promotes peace, security, and tolerance through education.
Conference on Learning Cities
The minister’s remarks were part of the 6th International Conference on Learning Cities (ICLC 6), themed “Learning Cities at the Forefront of Climate Action.”
The conference brought together global stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and researchers, to explore strategies for addressing climate challenges through lifelong learning initiatives.
This robust investment reaffirms the FCT Administration’s determination to enhance educational opportunities, meet global standards, and address the developmental needs of its growing population.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced the establishment of a senior secondary school in Ketti, underscoring the government’s commitment to equitable infrastructure development across satellite towns.
Wike made this declaration during the official flag-off of the Kabusa-Ketti road project, a key initiative under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Immediate Approval for Ketti Senior Secondary School
Responding to a long-standing demand from the Ketti community, Wike declared, “Without even saying much, let me approve today that Ketti will get a senior secondary school. It is time for the government to fulfill its promises to the people.”
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from residents, who gathered in large numbers to witness the event.
Prioritizing Satellite Communities
Emphasizing the administration’s focus on satellite areas, Wike stated, “Mr. President has directed us to open up all satellite areas, and that is why we are here today in Kabusa and Ketti. This road project will be completed before or during the second anniversary of Mr. President. Money for this project is not a problem; it will not be abandoned.”
The minister also highlighted ongoing projects like the dualization of the Kuje-Gwagwalada road and the installation of streetlights along the Kuje road, emphasizing their potential to transform commuting and improve living conditions in the FCT.
Tackling Security Challenges
Acknowledging the security challenges in the area, including the tragic killing of Ketti’s traditional ruler last year, Wike extended his condolences and reiterated the administration’s resolve to enhance safety.
He noted that the inclusion of streetlights in the Kabusa-Ketti road project would boost security and improve accessibility for residents.
Support for Farmers and Economic Growth
Wike also pointed out that building access roads would ease the movement of farm produce, reduce hardships, and spur economic growth.
“By the time we finish the airport road to Kuje, commuting will be easier. You can live in Kuje, work in Abuja, and return home within 15 minutes. That’s what governance is about—making life better for the people,” he said.
Commitment to Promises
Wike expressed gratitude to the people of Kabusa and Ketti for their support and assured them of the administration’s commitment to meeting their needs.
“We are here because we know your challenges, and we are here to solve them. Mr. President has come through me to fulfill his promises to you. This is a government that honors its agreements,” Wike concluded.
Development for Satellite Communities
The Kabusa-Ketti road project is part of a broader effort to enhance infrastructure, boost economic activities, and improve living conditions across FCT’s satellite communities, reinforcing the government’s dedication to inclusive development.
The Healthcare Equipment and Allied Products Providers Association of Nigeria (HEPAN) has reaffirmed its resolve to eliminate fake and substandard healthcare equipment from Nigeria’s health sector, citing the detrimental impact of such products on patient safety, the healthcare system, and the economy.
In a statement on Wednesday, HEPAN National President, Dr. Ifeanyi Nwankwo, emphasized the association’s commitment to promoting regulatory compliance and ethical business practices among its members.
“Our mission is to promote regulatory compliance and integrity while discouraging the importation and sale of substandard medical devices. This commitment is critical to ensuring patient safety and advancing Nigeria’s healthcare system,” Dr. Nwankwo said.
Partnership for Quality Assurance
HEPAN highlighted its collaboration with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to ensure its members maintain the highest standards of quality and honesty. The association serves as a platform for identifying and verifying credible importers, distributors, and suppliers of medical devices, thereby enhancing trust within the healthcare marketplace.
The association also underscored its commitment to fostering a culture of quality consciousness, which it believes is pivotal in transforming Nigeria’s medical landscape and deterring unethical practices.
Focus on Patient Safety
Patient safety will take center stage at HEPAN’s upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference, themed “Prioritizing Patient Safety in the Marketplace.”
Scheduled for December 6-7 in Abuja, the event will feature prominent stakeholders, including:
Prof. Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, as the Guest of Honour.
Alhaji Mustapha Husein Falaki, who will chair the conference.
Prof. Saad Ahmad, Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, as the Guest Speaker.
Sen. Eze Njoku and Clare Omatseye, leading figures in Nigeria’s healthcare industry.
Advancing Credibility and Compliance
Dr. Nwankwo noted that membership in HEPAN aligns businesses with its mission of advocating for superior healthcare devices and adhering to international standards.
“Through our efforts, HEPAN plays a pivotal role in building Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure on trust, quality, and excellence,” he affirmed.
As the AGM approaches, the association remains steadfast in championing policies and practices that prioritize patient welfare, ensuring the Nigerian healthcare sector operates with integrity and aligns with global best practices.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called on global investors to leverage Nigeria’s advanced geo-data platforms to explore the country’s vast mineral wealth.
Speaking at the ongoing Mines & Money Conference in Islington, London, Dr. Alake highlighted the adoption of digital technology by the Federal Government as part of efforts to facilitate business inquiries and promote transparent transactions in the solid minerals sector.
According to a statement by Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan, the Minister’s Special Adviser, Dr. Alake introduced three key web platforms:
Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS):
A web-based tool providing access to geo-scientific and geo-economic data.
Enables investors to analyze mineral occurrences, hydrology, demography, geography, urban planning, and transportation for informed decision-making.
Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+):
An online, real-time system for managing mineral titles throughout their life cycles, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
Allows remote research and application planning for prospective investors.
National Geo-Data Centre:
A central repository offering updated geological and mineral wealth data.
Commitment to Data Quality and Sustainability
Dr. Alake emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to enhancing geological data acquisition and research. Plans include increased funding for public and private sector research to expand and refine available data.
He praised the work of African geoscientists in developing a coding system to certify research reports, ensuring the reliability of data for investors.
Positioning Nigeria as a Global Mining Hub
Highlighting Nigeria’s potential, Dr. Alake underscored recent discoveries of critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements, positioning the country as a significant player in the global transition to a green economy.
“The deliberate investment in accurate geoscientific data, particularly for critical minerals, aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to sustainability and the global fight against climate change,” he stated.
He also stressed the need for value addition and beneficiation in downstream mining, urging investors to collaborate with the government to unlock the sector’s potential.
Appeal to Global Investors
Dr. Alake made a compelling pitch to executives from leading mining companies, including Barrick’s Mark Bristow, Traxys’ Mark Kristoff, and Anglo American’s Kate Southwell.
“The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise. Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey,” he concluded.
A Vision for Diversification
The Minister reiterated the Tinubu administration’s focus on diversifying Nigeria’s economy by prioritizing the solid minerals sector, aiming to drive sustainable growth and reduce reliance on oil.
The event also featured investor engagements at Nigeria’s exhibition booth, where participants explored opportunities in the country’s evolving mining sector.
The Federal Government has reiterated its determination to eliminate new HIV infections among children and achieve the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
This assurance was given by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health, during the World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja.
With the theme “Take the Rights Path: Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030,” this year’s event underscores the urgency of addressing HIV transmission in children while sustaining Nigeria’s broader HIV response.
Strategic Focus on Children
Dr. Salako noted that over 1.9 million people, including approximately 150,000 children, live with HIV in Nigeria. He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring sustained access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), expanded testing, counselling, and enhanced prevention programs.
“The Federal Government remains committed to achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, ensuring no child is left behind,” Dr. Salako stated.
The Minister highlighted initiatives like the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, which focuses on improving data management, securing medicines, and mobilizing sustainable domestic resources to reinforce the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He urged all stakeholders, including sub-national governments, private sector players, community and religious leaders, NGOs, and CBOs, to intensify efforts to prevent HIV transmission
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to enhance security and connectivity in rural areas by integrating streetlights into ongoing road construction projects.
During the inauguration of the 10.5-kilometer Kabusa to Ketti access road in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike emphasized the transformative potential of the project for local communities.
“For the first time, you can see we are providing roads and, at the same time, providing streetlights,” the minister stated, pointing to the success of similar initiatives in Kuje township, where streetlights have significantly improved nighttime security.
He noted that such projects are part of the administration’s broader efforts to reduce the challenges faced by rural dwellers, ensure safer environments for farmers, and tackle insecurity across the territory.
Road Project to Transform Communities
The Kabusa to Ketti road, awarded to Tech Oil Global Concept, will connect multiple communities and is expected to be completed within six months. According to Mr. Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), the project is designed to address long-standing challenges in the area.
Mr. Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), hailed the project as a game changer. He recounted the difficulties residents had faced, including heightened insecurity due to poor road conditions.
“This is where our royal father was kidnapped and killed because the road was very difficult for security operatives to access,” Maikalangu said, expressing confidence that the new road would mitigate such risks and stimulate economic activities.
Ongoing and Future Projects
Maikalangu commended the FCT Administration’s focus on rural development, highlighting completed projects like the Saburi, Karimo to Dei-Dei, and Life Camp roads in Zone C. He also praised ongoing efforts such as the Kabusa to Takushara road.
Describing Wike as a “game changer and transformer,” Maikalangu invited the minister to commission additional completed projects within the council area. He also urged the minister to extend infrastructure development to underserved communities in Zone A, including Nyanya, Karu, Orozo, and Karshi.
Commitment to Inclusive Growth
The Kabusa to Ketti road project exemplifies the FCT Administration’s commitment to inclusive development, prioritizing infrastructure that fosters security and connectivity. By addressing the unique challenges of rural communities, the administration is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and improved quality of life across the territory.
