Wednesday, November 20, 2024
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Minister Tasks Education Stakeholders on Talent Development

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Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, has called for a transformative shift in the nation’s educational system to recognize and nurture diverse talents, encompassing academic brilliance, leadership, arts, and innovation.

As a special guest of honour at the “Rep Your Campus” episode of Big Break Moment Africa, Season 2, held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, the Minister highlighted the need for extensive assessment methodologies and mentorship programs to uncover latent talent.

Represented by Mrs. Omolola Olanipekun, the Director of Finance and Administration, Area Council Services Secretariat, Dr. Mahmoud emphasized the pivotal role of the educational system in creating an environment where each student’s unique qualities are valued. She stressed the importance of empowering talented individuals through skill development opportunities, research projects, and collaborative initiatives.

“A supportive ecosystem that encourages exploration and experimentation is essential to harness the full potential of our future leaders and innovators,” remarked the Minister. “Let us collectively strive to create an educational landscape that not only values academic achievements but also celebrates the multifaceted talents that enrich our society.”

Dr. Mahmoud expressed her strong conviction that through recognition and empowerment, a brighter and more inclusive future can be paved for students and the nation at large. Commending the organizers, she pledged the Administration’s commitment to collaborating with organizations supporting the creative abilities of talented students in Nigeria.

Tayo Folorunsho, the Founder of The Big Break Moment Africa, highlighted the program’s objective of providing a platform for young talents to showcase their abilities while fostering personal and communal growth. The initiative aims to nurture creativity and innovation across 182 tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The winner of The Big Break Moment Season 2 was rewarded with a brand new Changan CS35 2023 model car, marking a significant acknowledgment of their talents.

Residents Flee Katsina Community As Bandits Intensify Attacks

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A wave of fear has gripped Nahuta village in Batsari Local Government Area, Katsina State, as residents embark on a mass exodus to seek safety and refuge elsewhere. The increasing frequency of attacks by bandits has prompted this urgent relocation.

Following yet another assault by bandits on Monday, January 15, 2024, residents were compelled to move their children and family members out of the village. The persistent threat has created an atmosphere of insecurity, prompting the community members to take measures to protect their loved ones.

In a parallel development, the Nigerian Military Joint Task Force Northwest Operation, Hadarin Daji, successfully repelled an attack on a joint military camp. The troops, covering states like Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara, demonstrated resilience in thwarting the assailants during the Monday attack.

Katsina, situated in the North-West region, continues to grapple with the menace of banditry. These loosely organized armed groups, numbering over 120 factions in the region, have instilled fear and instability in various communities, prompting ongoing efforts by security forces to address the situation.

Nigeria To Strengthen Defence Collaboration With France To Curb Insecurity- Defence Minister

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The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has stated that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would strengthen the defence cooperation with France to curb the menace of terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminalities in the country.

The Minister stated this when he received the Honourable members of French Parliament and members of Defence Commission led by Gassilloud Thomas at Ship House, Abuja.

This was made available to newsmen in a release signed by Henshaw Ogubike mnipr Director (Press & PR)

While commenting on the existing relationship between the two countries, the Minister said the relationships need to be strengthened in the area of Military equipment, training of personnels among others.

The Honourable Minister further added that since his assumption of office as the Honourable Minister of Defence, he has had three engagements with F

Tinubu, Gowon, Osinbajo Attend Book Launch In Buhari’s Honour

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Distinguished guests, including President Bola Tinubu, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, gathered at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on Tuesday for the unveiling of a book titled ‘Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser Media and Publicity, 2015-2023.’

The event saw the presence of former President Muhammadu Buhari, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Authored by Buhari’s former spokesperson, Femi Adesina, the book was presented alongside five volumes of ‘Muhammadu Buhari, The Nigerian Legacy, 2015 to 2023.’

This occasion marked President Buhari’s first official visit to the federal capital since handing over to President Tinubu on May 29, 2023. Significantly, it also marked the first public appearance together for Tinubu and Buhari since the transfer of power in May.

The book launch served as a momentous gathering, bringing together key figures to reflect on the past years of the Buhari administration and commemorate his legacy.

De Rossi Takes Helm at Roma Following Mourinho’s Departure

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Roma has swiftly appointed Daniele De Rossi as the new head coach after the sudden sacking of Jose Mourinho. De Rossi, the 40-year-old former Italy midfielder, returns to his hometown club where he enjoyed a significant playing career.

“AS Roma are pleased to confirm that Daniele De Rossi has been appointed as head coach until 30 June 2024,” stated Roma in an official announcement.

De Rossi’s coaching experience is relatively limited, with his only previous role at SPAL lasting just four months last season, culminating in the team’s relegation to Serie C. Despite this, Roma has entrusted him with the responsibility of leading the team until the end of the 2023-2024 season.

The former Italy international won the World Cup in 2006 and spent almost his entire playing career with Roma, securing two Italian Cups and the 2007 Italian Super Cup. After concluding his playing career at Boca Juniors in 2020, De Rossi now takes on the challenging role of guiding Roma in Serie A.

The decision comes as Roma sits in the ninth position in Serie A, five points adrift of the Champions League qualification places, following a recent 3-1 defeat to AC Milan. De Rossi’s appointment marks a new chapter for Roma as they aim to revitalize their season under his guidance.

Roma Sacks Mourinho

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In a surprising turn of events, Roma has parted ways with manager Jose Mourinho, citing the club’s current standing in Serie A as the primary reason for the decision. Despite leading Roma to the Europa Conference League title last year and the Europa League final in 2023, Mourinho’s tenure has been cut short.

The club, currently ninth in Serie A, is five points away from the Champions League qualifying position, and a recent exit from the Coppa Italia fueled the decision. Owners Dan and Ryan Friedkin expressed gratitude for Mourinho’s passion and commitment but deemed immediate change necessary for the club’s best interests.

Mourinho’s recent red card in the Lazio defeat, coupled with a 3-1 loss to AC Milan, further contributed to the decision. The Portuguese manager compared himself to Harry Potter after the Lazio match, suggesting that his high profile was raising unrealistic expectations for Roma.

Despite winning the 2022 Conference League and gaining substantial support from the fanbase, Roma’s poor start to the current Serie A campaign, sitting 16th at one point, triggered concerns. Mourinho had previously rejected tempting offers to leave last summer, emphasizing his commitment to the club.

While Mourinho’s contract was set to expire at the end of the current season, the immediate change reflects the club’s determination to salvage their Serie A campaign and secure a Champions League spot.

Shell to Sell Nigerian Onshore Subsidiary, SPDC, for $2.4 Billion

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In a strategic move, Shell Plc has announced the sale of its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), for a staggering $2.4 billion. The decision, revealed in a statement on Tuesday, emphasizes the preservation of SPDC’s operational capabilities under new ownership.

The consortium set to acquire SPDC is Renaissance, comprising four Nigerian exploration and production companies alongside an international energy group. The deal, however, remains contingent on approvals from the Federal Government of Nigeria and other necessary conditions.

The statement affirms that SPDC’s staff will seamlessly transition to the new ownership structure. Shell will retain a role in supporting the management of SPDC Joint Venture facilities, crucial in supplying a significant portion of feed gas to Nigeria LNG (NLNG).

Zoë Yujnovich, Shell’s Integrated Gas and Upstream Director, commented on the significance of the agreement, stating, “This marks an important milestone for Shell in Nigeria, aligning with our previously announced intent to exit onshore oil production in the Niger Delta.” She highlighted the company’s commitment to streamlining its portfolio, focusing on Deepwater and Integrated Gas positions in Nigeria.

The statement also acknowledged the historical contribution of SPDC to Nigeria’s energy sector, noting that the company would enter its next chapter under the ownership of an experienced and ambitious Nigerian-led consortium.

As part of the unincorporated joint venture, SPDC JV comprises SPDC Ltd (30%), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (55%), Total Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd (10%), and Nigeria Agip Oil Company Ltd (5%). The move aligns with Shell’s vision for a positive investment outlook in Nigeria’s energy sector, strategically supporting the country’s growing energy needs and export ambitions in line with their broader strategy.

Worldwide Tobacco Use Declining, But Challenges Persist, Warns WHO

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The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a steady decline in adult tobacco users globally, with about one in five adults using tobacco in 2022, compared to one in three in 2000. While 150 countries are successfully reducing tobacco use, WHO warned of ongoing challenges, including the tobacco industry’s efforts to reverse progress.

Key points from the report:

  1. Positive Trends: Smoking rates are decreasing in most countries, and 56 nations are on track to achieve the goal of a 30% reduction in tobacco use by 2025.
  2. Missed Goals: The world is set to miss the target of a 30% reduction in tobacco use between 2010 and 2025, with six countries experiencing an increase in tobacco use since 2010.
  3. Persistent Deaths: Despite declining smoking rates, tobacco-related deaths are expected to remain high for years, with over 8 million people, including 1.3 million non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke, estimated to die annually.
  4. Tobacco Industry Influence: WHO emphasizes the tobacco industry’s determination to manipulate health policies and sell their products, urging countries to fight against “tobacco industry interference” and strengthen control policies.
  5. Adolescent Tobacco Use: The report highlights the need for better data on tobacco use among adolescents, emphasizing that current data is an underestimate due to the lack of information from more than 70 countries. Gathering accurate data is crucial to combat industry claims and shape effective policies.

The WHO’s call to maintain and strengthen control policies underscores the importance of continued efforts to counter the influence of the tobacco industry and protect public health.

Tinubu Reassures Nigerians Amidst “Japa” Trend, Promises More Training for Professionals

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President Bola Tinubu has sought to allay concerns over the mass exodus of young professionals, known as “Japa,” from Nigeria to other countries. While on an official visit to Imo State for the inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s second term in Owerri, Tinubu reassured Nigerians that more individuals would be trained to fill the vacancies created by those seeking opportunities abroad.

In local parlance, “Japa” refers to the phenomenon of skilled professionals leaving their home country in search of better prospects elsewhere. Tinubu’s statement acknowledges the challenges posed by the brain drain but emphasizes a commitment to addressing the issue by investing in training programs to prepare more individuals to meet the demands of various sectors.

“Don’t worry about what you are hearing about Japa syndrome. We will train more people and supply them,” Tinubu affirmed during his visit.

This assurance underscores the need for strategic efforts in education, skill development, and job creation to retain and harness the potential of skilled professionals within Nigeria. The government’s focus on training programs aims to counteract the negative effects of the “Japa” trend and ensure a sustainable and competent workforce to contribute to the nation’s growth and development.

Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso Agree to Form Mega Party, says Pat Utomi

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Renowned political economist, Professor Pat Utomi, has revealed that three prominent figures in Nigerian politics—Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (Peoples Democratic Party), Mr Peter Obi (Labour Party), and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (New Nigeria People’s Party)—have agreed to form a mega party aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

Utomi made this disclosure during an interview on Channels TV on Sunday night. When asked if Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and Okey Nwosu had agreed to unite, Utomi responded with a simple “yes.”

Pressed on the name of the coalition, Utomi stated, “We’re not talking about names yet.” He clarified that the initiative involves not only politicians but also leaders from social movements and the labor movement.

Utomi further highlighted the need for a clean start, emphasizing that Nigeria has not had a political party since 1999. He criticized the existing political landscape, characterizing it as a platform for machine politics aimed at capturing power without genuine alignment with the Nigerian people to improve their lives.

Reflecting on the state of the country, Utomi expressed concern about the deterioration of Nigeria, citing its status as the poverty capital of the world and the increasing prevalence of violence. He emphasized the importance of creating a new political order built on values that promote progress, transparency, and accountability.

The move towards a mega party signals potential shifts in the political landscape as key figures seek to forge a new path with the aim of addressing the challenges facing the nation.