In response to ongoing concerns from readers about my stance on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), I’d like to clarify: there’s no personal animosity here. Rather, my interest stems from a passion for seeing the regulator rise from what I perceive as a period of underwhelming performance to reclaim its status as a leader in telecommunications regulation.

Having worked both inside and outside the system as a journalist, regulator, and now columnist, I remain keenly aware of the need for the NCC to adapt and innovate. Last week, the NCC showcased its resilience to criticism, addressing significant decisions and actions that could initiate a much-needed renaissance for the telecommunications industry, which has faced numerous challenges.

A Bold Move Towards Transparency

A source within the NCC revealed that the organization is committed to transparency, even when faced with hard decisions. One major development was the rebasing of Nigeria’s telecommunications subscriber statistics. In March 2024, the subscriber base was reported at 219,304,281, but by September 2024, this number had plummeted to 153,323,316. This decline was largely due to the NCC’s decision to update subscriber statistics based on the Nigerian Population Commission’s (NPC) recent population estimates.

Historically, rebasing has had mixed reactions in Nigeria. For example, when the economy was rebased in 2014, Nigeria’s GDP increased significantly, positioning it as Africa’s largest economy. However, the recent rebasing of telecom statistics raised eyebrows and prompted discussions about the implications for the industry.

The Factors Behind the Decline

Two main factors contributed to the decline in subscriber figures:

1. Revised Population Statistics: The NCC updated its telecommunications data to reflect a new population estimate of 216,783,381, which replaced the outdated figure of 190 million from 2017. This change resulted in a significant drop in teledensity from 115.63% to 102.30% and broadband penetration from 45.47% to 40.85%. Such adjustments were long overdue, with previous regulators hesitant to present these figures due to potential backlash from political leaders.
2. Completion of the NIN-SIM Linkage Policy: This policy, which aimed to link all SIM cards to a valid National Identification Number (NIN), officially concluded on September 14, 2024. The NCC announced that over 154 million lines had been successfully linked, providing a clearer picture of active users in the market.

A Step Towards Accountability and Compliance

The NCC’s recent actions demonstrate a commitment to introducing metrics that enhance accountability and transparency in the telecommunications sector. With the completion of the NIN-SIM linkage, the NCC is poised to address various industry challenges, including:

• Service Reliability: Ensuring that telecommunications services are dependable.
• Consumer Satisfaction: Improving user experience and addressing customer grievances.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that telecom operators adhere to established regulations.
• Network Resilience: Enhancing the reliability of telecommunications infrastructure.
• Transparent Marketing Practices: Clarifying data bundling and marketing practices for subscribers.

Conclusion

While the NCC has faced criticism, the recent changes indicate a willingness to confront challenges head-on. By embracing transparency and accountability, the commission can potentially revitalize the telecommunications sector in Nigeria. As a stakeholder in this narrative, I remain hopeful that these efforts will lead to a more robust and responsive regulatory environment that benefits both the industry and its consumers.

Renowned education advocate and child development specialist Nnenna Aniezue has recently emphasized the critical need for early intervention in supporting children with learning disabilities. During a press briefing, she called upon parents, educators, and policymakers to take proactive measures to promote inclusive education.

Importance of Early Intervention

Aniezue highlighted that timely identification and support for children with learning disabilities can significantly enhance their educational success and overall well-being. “Early intervention is very important in helping children with learning disabilities attain the peak of their unique potentials,” she stated, urging society to move beyond stigma and create an enabling environment where these children can thrive.

She pointed out that millions of children worldwide remain undiagnosed or unsupported, which exacerbates the challenges they face. The root causes of this issue include inadequate resources, lack of awareness, and insufficient teacher training.

Pivotal Early Years

Emphasizing the importance of the early years, Aniezue remarked, “The first five years of a child’s life are pivotal. Targeted interventions during this period can significantly enhance cognitive, social, and emotional development.” She advocated for investing in early childhood education as a way to lay the foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Role of Parents and Community

Aniezue also stressed the vital role of parental involvement and community engagement in intervention strategies. “Parents and caregivers are crucial in identifying early signs of learning disabilities,” she noted, explaining that empowering them with knowledge and resources can profoundly impact a child’s life.

Promoting Inclusive Education

In addition to early intervention, Aniezue highlighted the need for inclusive education, pointing out the benefits of diverse classrooms and tailored support. She argued that creating an inclusive educational environment not only benefits children with learning disabilities but enriches the learning experience for all students.

Conclusion

Nnenna Aniezue’s advocacy for early intervention underscores the collective responsibility of society to support children with learning disabilities. By fostering awareness, providing adequate resources, and promoting inclusive education, we can create a nurturing environment that allows every child to reach their full potential. Her call to action serves as a reminder that through collaboration and commitment, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these children and their families.

President Bola Tinubu is intensifying efforts to reform Nigeria’s livestock agriculture sector by appointing Alhaji Idi Mukhtar as the Minister for Livestock Development. As the Chairman of the livestock reform committee, with Professor Attahiru Jega as Co-Chairman, Tinubu aims to address the significant livestock product import bills and enhance local production to boost employment and attract foreign investment.

Objectives of the Reform

At a recent two-day consultative workshop at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the need to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports, noting that the country spends approximately $1.5 billion annually on dairy imports. He aims to transition the livestock sector from its current subsistence practices to a more commercial and industrial approach that contributes meaningfully to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Existing Challenges

Despite the potential for livestock farming in Nigeria, the country struggles to meet its own demands, producing far below its national needs. Furthermore, the sector is embroiled in issues of insecurity, primarily due to conflicts involving armed herdsmen, particularly in regions such as Benue, Plateau, Taraba, and Southern Kaduna. These conflicts have led to violence, including killings and kidnappings, raising concerns about how the proposed reforms will address these critical security issues.

Critics argue that the creation of a separate ministry and appointment of a minister may not be sufficient to tackle the deeply rooted challenges within the sector. Concerns have been raised that the reforms must also consider the context of insecurity and ensure that the livelihoods of local communities are not compromised.

Recommendations for Collaboration

The Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, has expressed support for the reforms. However, there is a call for President Tinubu to engage with all 36 governors rather than relying solely on the views of the NGF chairman. It’s crucial for the president to outline a comprehensive reform package that highlights the benefits to the states and their populations to foster broader acceptance and collaboration.

Inclusivity in Reforms

Experts caution that any livestock reform plan that advocates for open grazing or the forceful seizure of land for herdsmen will likely face strong resistance. It’s essential for the reforms to be inclusive, recognizing that livestock farming is not confined to any single ethnic group. Successful reform should attract diverse stakeholders and investors rather than following an ethnic appeasement model that has previously sparked resistance.

Conclusion

As President Tinubu embarks on this journey to reform the livestock sector, it is imperative to address the multifaceted challenges, particularly the intertwined issues of security and community rights. Engaging in inclusive dialogue and collaboration with all relevant stakeholders will be crucial for the success of these reforms and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s livestock agriculture sector.

The news of the passing of Pa Lawrence Nwoye Nwabuisi, a beloved patriarch from Nsugbe in Anambra State, resonated deeply within the community and beyond. His burial, scheduled for October, promised to be a significant event, reflecting the profound impact he had on those around him.

A Community Comes Together

Senator Dr. Tony Nwoye, known for his philanthropy and commitment to the people, gathered a remarkable assembly of influential figures to pay their respects. Politicians, captains of industry, ambassadors, lawmakers from both the National and State Assemblies, first-class monarchs, and religious leaders flocked to Nsugbe to commiserate with the Nwoye family during this solemn occasion.

Dr. Nwoye’s reputation as a charismatic leader with a far-reaching network of loyal friends and acquaintances was evident as the community united to honor his father’s legacy.

A Grand Ceremony

The burial ceremony took place on October 25, 2024, at Offianta Village, Nsugbe, in the Anambra East Local Government Area. Pa Lawrence Nwabuisi, a retired farmer, trader, and community leader, was celebrated for his integrity and love for humanity.

The funeral service was led by the Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, alongside Most Rev. Dennis Isizoh, the Bishop of Aguleri Diocese, and over 70 priests.

In his homily, Bishop Isizoh urged the bereaved family to focus on praising the Lord, reminding them that Pa Lawrence had ascended to a place of peace. He highlighted the virtues of the deceased and posed a reflective question to the attendees: “What will your neighbor say about you after you leave this world?” This thought-provoking inquiry resonated with the crowd, fostering a moment of introspection.

Celebrating a Legacy

The sentiments expressed during the service underscored the community’s admiration for Pa Lawrence Nwoye Nwabuisi’s life. His virtues and contributions to society were honored, and the Bishop encouraged everyone to emulate the legacy he left behind.

As Senator Dr. Tony Nwoye navigates this personal loss, the overwhelming support from the community and influential figures illustrates the lasting bonds formed through love, respect, and shared values. The grand burial ceremony not only celebrated the life of Pa Lawrence but also reinforced the ideals of compassion and unity within the Anambra community.

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has raised an alarm about the activities of certain petroleum products smugglers and scammers posing as legitimate marketers and transporters. In a recent statement, the Union urged the government and the public to remain vigilant against these individuals who seek to exploit Nigerians, especially following the removal of subsidies on petroleum products, which has made smuggling less profitable.

Warning Against Exploitation

NUPENG’s leadership, represented by President Prince Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, emphasized the danger posed by unscrupulous individuals advertising themselves as members of a fictitious association claiming to serve both as transporters and marketers in the oil and gas sector. The Union characterized these individuals as “failed rent seekers in the subsidy regime” who disguise themselves as legitimate businesspeople.

“The general public and government institutions are hereby warned and strongly advised to be wary of these individuals who are desperately seeking ways and means to continue to exploit Nigerians and collecting rents in other manners since the current administration removed subsidy from petroleum products,” the statement read.

Recognizing Legitimate Associations

NUPENG reaffirmed its recognition of legitimate associations in the oil and gas sector, including:

• National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO): The legitimate umbrella body for transporters in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, which has a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with NUPENG on behalf of Petroleum Tankers Drivers (PTD).
• Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN)
• Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN)
• Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN)

These organizations are acknowledged for their respected roles in the downstream sector of the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

Upholding Labor Laws

NUPENG also emphasized that Nigerian labor laws recognize only two umbrella bodies for oil and gas workers: NUPENG and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). These unions are tasked with representing and protecting the job interests of workers in the oil and gas industry, including Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), as outlined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In light of these developments, NUPENG urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities to help curb the exploitation of Nigerians in the petroleum sector.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has been recognized as Nigeria’s most labour-friendly governor by the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS). This accolade reflects his exceptional commitment to empowering trade unions and fostering harmonious labour relations within the state.

Commitment to Labour Relations

In a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, a letter of appreciation from Dr. Raji Michael, representing the Director General and Chief Executive of MINILS, emphasized Governor Yusuf’s landmark initiative to organize a capacity-building workshop for union leaders within the Kano State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

Capacity-Building Workshop

The workshop, titled “Conflict Management for Harmonious Industrial Labour Relations Environment,” aimed to equip union executives with practical conflict resolution strategies to enhance workplace harmony and productivity. Dr. Michael expressed gratitude for Governor Yusuf’s dedication to advancing workers’ education and efforts to create vibrant, responsive trade unions in Kano.

In his letter, he noted, “Your Excellency, on behalf of the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiru Onyejeocho, we express our gratitude for your dedication to advancing workers’ education and your continuous efforts to create responsive, vibrant trade unions in Kano.”

Positive Impact and Future Collaboration

Dr. Michael also highlighted that participants returned from the workshop with renewed determination and the skills necessary for effective conflict management in their respective workplaces. The institute expressed interest in further collaboration with the Kano State Government to advance labour education and development initiatives.

This recognition underscores Governor Yusuf’s proactive approach in enhancing labour relations and his commitment to empowering workers in Kano State.

Adeola Abiodun, the National Executive Director at Experior, has received a prestigious accolade at the Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards, recognizing his significant contributions to community empowerment through financial education.

Celebrating Community Impact

The awards celebrate individuals who have made impactful contributions to their communities, and Adeola’s recognition highlights his dedication to fostering positive change and promoting financial literacy. In his acceptance speech, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I am thrilled to announce that I have received a prestigious award at the Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards! A heartfelt thank you to Starboard Temidayo for organizing such an incredible event. This recognition reflects our collective commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Let’s continue striving for excellence together!”

Expertise in Financial Independence

As an experienced financial broker and business coach, Adeola specializes in guiding individuals, families, and corporations toward financial independence through strategic wealth-building solutions. His dedication to educating and empowering others has profoundly impacted countless lives, reinforcing the importance of financial literacy in achieving both personal and collective success.

Honoring Excellence

The Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards aim to honor individuals who exemplify excellence and dedication in various fields while celebrating their contributions to society. Adeola’s recognition at this event not only attests to his hard work but also serves as an inspiration for others striving to make a difference in their communities.

With this accolade, Adeola Abiodun continues to inspire others on their journeys toward financial empowerment and community engagement

As the non-oil sector gains prominence in international trade, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are taking significant steps to enhance collaboration in the solid minerals sector. This initiative was announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, following a courtesy visit from the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Salem Shaeed Al Shamsi.

Historical Partnership and Trade Expansion

Dr. Alake reflected on the historical significance of the over 50-year relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, emphasizing the need to deepen these ties through expanded trade in mining. He noted Nigeria’s vast reserves of globally sought-after minerals and highlighted the UAE’s status as a major hub for mineral trade.

“The mining sector presents significant opportunities for collaboration. While there is considerable trade in gold, much of it remains illegal, with a large portion of Nigerian gold unlawfully ending up in the UAE,” Alake stated. He proposed developing strategies to combat illegal gold trade and establishing a regulatory framework to legitimize this trade, enabling both nations to maximize their benefits.

Technology Transfer and Regulatory Framework

In addition to trade discussions, Dr. Alake expressed interest in partnering with the UAE on technology transfer to advance Nigeria’s mining sector. This collaboration aims to improve mining practices and enhance the efficiency of the sector.

UAE’s Commitment to Strengthening Relations

Ambassador Al Shamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to reinforcing its longstanding relationship with Nigeria. He noted the recent resolution of visa restrictions and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UAE companies and Nigeria via the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF). “The lifting of visa application restrictions and the launch of a new visa application website demonstrate my country’s dedication to advancing bilateral relations,” he said.

Upcoming Economic Forum

Ambassador Al Shamsi also announced an upcoming Nigeria-UAE economic forum scheduled to take place in Nigeria. This event is expected to feature participation from 30 to 35 major companies from the Middle East and UAE, aimed at boosting Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in Nigeria.

This initiative reflects a strong commitment from both countries to foster economic growth and collaboration in the solid minerals sector, leveraging Nigeria’s rich mineral resources and the UAE’s trade expertise.

Laurel Leaf Communications, a leading event, media, and advertising agency, is thrilled to announce a new empowerment initiative in collaboration with the Ondo State Government. This program, facilitated through the office of the Senior Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu (KSO), aims to inspire creativity and innovation among student entrepreneurs in the state.

The 2024 Lead Awards: A Platform for Discussion and Growth

In a groundbreaking move, the 2024 Lead Awards will also provide a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs in Ondo State to participate in a roundtable discussion focused on innovation and creativity. This thirty-minute panel session, powered by the Growth Hub, will leverage the expertise of various organizations to create a collaborative environment for community members, small businesses, and local leaders.

The session will cover key areas such as education, economic development, digital transformation, and social impact, enabling participants to share knowledge and access vital resources.

Commitment to Youth Welfare

Speaking on the partnership, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the Ondo State Government’s commitment to the welfare of its youth. “We are excited to join forces with Laurel Leaf Communications to create meaningful opportunities for young people in Ondo State through the LEAD Awards. This partnership represents the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to driving positive change and supporting sustainable development in Ondo State. Together, we aim to build a more inclusive and empowered future for our youths, especially students,” he stated.

Empowering the Next Generation

Ms. Adebukola Oba, the Chief Executive Officer of Laurel Leaf Communications, expressed gratitude to the state government and urged young entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity. “I want to thank the state government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his support. We prioritize the welfare of the Ondo State people, and that was why the Leadership Excellence and Dignity Awards were established. This year, we aim not just to reward our patriots but also to empower the rising generation, especially those pursuing entrepreneurship,” she said.

Adebukola further highlighted the features of the 2024 LEAD Awards, which will include a mentorship session designed to provide student entrepreneurs with access to specialized tools and resources. “We want our audience to learn from industry experts, develop critical skills, and connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference,” she added.

Looking Ahead

Laurel Leaf Communications and the Ondo State Government are excited about the potential impact of this partnership. With the support of the Growth Hub, they are confident that this initiative will create lasting change and encourage community members to actively shape their futures. More information will be rolled out in the coming weeks, marking a significant step towards empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs in Ondo State.

In a nation where youth constitute a significant demographic, empowering the next generation is crucial for sustainable development. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a prominent politician and former governor of Abia State, has emerged as a key advocate for youth empowerment and education in Nigeria. His dedication to these causes is evident through his legislative efforts and the various programs he has spearheaded over the years.

Advocacy for Youth Empowerment

Senator Kalu’s commitment to youth empowerment is grounded in his belief that Nigeria’s future hinges on its young people. He consistently emphasizes the necessity of investing in the youth by providing opportunities and resources for them to thrive. His approach is multifaceted, encompassing education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and leadership training.

A cornerstone of Kalu’s initiatives is his strong support for entrepreneurship. Acknowledging the high unemployment rates affecting young people, he has promoted programs that encourage self-reliance and entrepreneurial ventures. Through the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, he has offered financial support and mentorship to young entrepreneurs, aiding them in establishing and expanding their businesses. These initiatives have not only created jobs but have also fostered innovation and stimulated local economic growth.

Kalu’s dedication to youth empowerment also extends to leadership development. He advocates for the active inclusion of young people in decision-making processes at both local and national levels. By empowering youth to assume leadership roles, he believes they can provide fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to Nigeria’s challenges. His support for initiatives like youth parliaments and leadership training programs aims to equip young Nigerians with essential skills for effective leadership.

Educational Reforms: Building a Strong Foundation

Education lies at the core of Senator Kalu’s vision for youth empowerment. He recognizes that a well-educated population is vital for national progress and that investing in education is one of the most effective means of empowering the youth. Throughout his political career, Kalu has been a strong proponent of educational reforms aimed at enhancing access to quality education and equipping students with skills necessary for success in a modern economy.

One of Kalu’s notable contributions to education is his advocacy for curriculum reform. He has called for the alignment of Nigeria’s educational curriculum with the needs of the 21st-century workforce, particularly stressing the significance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. Kalu has backed initiatives promoting STEM education in schools, including scholarships and grants for students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. By championing these reforms, he seeks to prepare young Nigerians for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Conclusion

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and education is shaping the future of Nigeria. Through his multifaceted approach that includes entrepreneurship support, leadership development, and educational reforms, he is providing young people with the necessary tools to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. His efforts reflect a profound understanding of the pivotal role youth play in the country’s development and the need for strategic investments in their potential.

The Nigerian Senate has voiced strong disapproval of the military’s delays in disbursing insurance benefits to deceased and retired personnel, affecting 174 families in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) alone. The Senate Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), addressed the issue following a petition from Master Warrant Officer Rukayat Ajoke Ishola, who alleged non-payment of insurance benefits for her late husband, Warrant Officer Daramola Taiwo, who died in April 2016.

Ishola’s petition outlined the delays in her husband’s insurance payment and the denial of educational benefits for her child, which are typically provided to children of fallen military personnel. She also claimed that harassment from certain NAF officers forced her to go absent without leave (AWOL) to protect herself.

In response, Wing Commander Mohammed Saleh explained that the delays were unintentional and acknowledged that many NAF families were experiencing similar issues. He stated that Ishola’s late husband was not entitled to educational benefits for their child, as he did not die in “active service,” a designation applied only to those who die in combat or field duty, as per regulations amended in 2021.

Senator Imasuen and the committee found this explanation unacceptable, emphasizing the prolonged wait for benefits that have been due for nearly nine years. The committee announced plans to send a formal letter to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, urging prompt payment of Ishola’s husband’s insurance benefits. They also recommended that Ishola’s child be included in the NAF’s school fees program and called for Ishola’s honorable discharge from the NAF with full retirement benefits.

Windsor Gallery is set to host a captivating dual exhibition titled The Eighth Continent and Mouvements Poétiques, celebrating African art and exploring rich narratives of identity, movement, and global interconnectedness. The exhibitions will run from November 1 to November 29, 2024, featuring the works of renowned artists Duke Asidere, Mederic Turay, and Didier Viode.

The Eighth Continent invites viewers on a journey through an uncharted landscape, showcasing the visionary works of Duke Asidere and Mederic Turay. Asidere, celebrated for his bold use of color and profound societal commentary, weaves abstraction with themes of identity and emotion. His pieces encourage audiences to engage with Africa’s modern narratives, reflecting on its complexities and vibrancy.

Mederic Turay’s contributions further enrich this exhibition, adding layers of interpretation and artistic dialogue. The combination of these artists’ perspectives creates a dynamic exploration of contemporary African identity.

The Mouvements Poétiques exhibition complements this by delving into poetic expressions of movement, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of cultures and experiences.

Visitors can look forward to a thought-provoking experience that highlights the depth and diversity of African cultural expression.

Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Adebola Akindele, has been honored with the South-West Hall of Fame award at the 2024 Synergy Meritorious Award ceremony, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In his acceptance speech, Akindele commended the organizers and encouraged South-West youths to strive for excellence in all their endeavors, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication.

Other notable award recipients included Mr. Oluwatobi Ajayi, Chief Executive Officer of Nord Motors, who received the Man of the Year Award, and Mr. Olabode Oluwadamilare, a popular influencer on X (formerly Twitter), who was recognized as the South-West Social Media Trailblazer of the Year.

During the event, Adewale Kazeem, the convener of the award, emphasized the importance of celebrating brilliant minds and the significant contributions of individuals in various sectors. He stated, “The Synergy Awards is an annual ceremony honoring outstanding personalities, youths, and students in the South-West who have made significant impacts in their respective fields and industries, including tech, entrepreneurship, entertainment, business, and more.”

Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam, a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has regained his freedom after being kidnapped by gunmen. According to police reports, Ujam escaped his captors following an operation by the Enugu State Police Command on October 28, 2024, around 7:10 p.m. This operation took place in the Neke-Uno area of the Enugu/Opi/Nsukka Road, where police successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt.

Ujam had been abducted on October 26 while traveling on the Ugwuogo-Opi Nsukka Road. During the police operation to rescue him, a gunfight erupted between the officers and the suspects, who fled with gunshot wounds. Authorities recovered an AK-47 rifle, two magazines containing 22 rounds of ammunition, and a chain of 39 live rounds from the scene.

In response to ongoing security challenges in the area, Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered additional personnel and resources to enhance police operations along the critical Enugu/Opi/Nsukka route. He reassured the public about their safety in the area.

Additionally, the police clarified reports regarding a purported kidnapping of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer traveling from Benue State, stating that no such incident had occurred in Enugu State.

The industrial action initiated by non-teaching staff in public universities has entered its second day, with more institutions joining the strike on Tuesday. This nationwide strike was called by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Allied Institutions (NASU) in response to ongoing issues, including four months of delayed salaries.

Institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and other universities in the South-East, which were unable to participate in the strike on Monday due to local sit-at-home orders, officially joined the action on Tuesday. A lecturer at UNN noted the significant disruption the strike has caused on campus, stating, “The strike by the non-academic staff started today here on campus at UNN. The sit-at-home observance did not allow it to begin Monday as people stayed at home.”

At the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), members of SSANU and NASU also officially joined the indefinite strike. The chairman of NASU at UNILORIN, Zubair Haruna Ibrahim, confirmed the action, emphasizing that they would not return to work until their demands were met. He pointed out the disparity in payments, noting that while members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) received partial payments, non-teaching staff remained unpaid.

Statement from SSANU President

Comrade Mohamed Ibrahim, the National President of SSANU, expressed frustration over the government’s lack of communication regarding their issues. He stated, “Nobody from the side of the government has reached out to us. The claim by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Education that they are disappointed in us for the action we took is out of point. What do they expect us to do? Have we not been patient enough?”

Ibrahim reiterated that the strike would continue until their salary issues were resolved, underscoring the vital role of non-teaching staff in the university system. As the strike progresses, administrative activities across affected universities remain paralyzed, with essential services halted as unions demand the release of withheld salaries and equitable treatment

Jelili Sulaimon, the suspended chairman of the Alimosho Local Government Area in Lagos State, has issued a formal apology to the members of the state Assembly, seeking forgiveness following his suspension due to misconduct and disrespect towards the House.

His apology comes just a month after he was suspended for non-compliance and a defiant attitude towards the legislative body. In a letter addressed to Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, which was read on the floor of the House, Sulaimon acknowledged that his actions might have disrespected the Assembly.

In his letter, Sulaimon expressed regret and committed to showing maximum respect to the House moving forward. He also indicated his intention to work collaboratively with the legislators to mend the relationship. Furthermore, he communicated through his lawyers that he had withdrawn the lawsuit he filed against the Assembly at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The letter of apology included the following sentiments:

“I am writing to express my most sincere and heartfelt apology for any actions or inactions, misrepresentation or conduct on my part that may have contributed to the recent misunderstanding between myself and the esteemed Lagos State House of Assembly under your leadership.

“Upon reflection, I realized that my conduct and certain decisions I made might have been perceived as disrespectful or contrary to the standard of leadership and the mutual respect that defines the relationship between the Assembly and the local government leadership.

“This was never my intention. I deeply regret any discomfort or displeasure this may have caused your personality as well as the entire House.

“I have always held the Lagos State House of Assembly and your esteemed office in particular in the highest regard.”

Sulaimon’s apology reflects his desire to restore harmony and cooperation between the local government and the state Assembly, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect in governance.