The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Daniel Egerson: A seasoned researcher unveiling new insights of displaced farming communities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta Region

    Daniel Egerson: A seasoned researcher unveiling new insights of displaced farming communities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta Region

    A detailed study conducted by Daniel Egerson, an experienced researcher from the University of Ibadan, has brought to light the significant environmental impact caused by displaced farming households along the Tombia-Amassoma highway in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study provides key insights into how the interaction between displaced communities and their environment is worsening deforestation and contributing to long-term ecological decline.

    Egerson’s research investigates the socio-environmental conditions of these displaced populations, many of whom have been uprooted due to oil spills, insurgencies, and ethno-religious conflicts. Deprived of basic services such as clean water, healthcare, and education, these communities have turned to subsistence farming and the exploitation of forest resources for survival. This increased dependence on firewood and forest materials for construction has led to rapid deforestation, with significant repercussions for the region’s biodiversity.

    A critical finding of the study reveals that economic necessity is driving this environmental degradation. Despite being subjected to fines and fees imposed by local authorities for land use and resource extraction, many displaced families continue to engage in farming and fishing as their primary means of survival. However, these activities are accelerating forest loss and soil degradation at an alarming rate. Egerson also highlights the gendered dimension of this environmental damage, noting that many of the displaced households are headed by women, often widows, who rely heavily on forest resources to support their families. The intensification of farming practices in these fragile ecosystems, combined with unsustainable agricultural methods, is contributing to severe land erosion and depletion of natural resources.

    The researcher calls for urgent intervention, recommending the adoption of sustainable land-use policies and the introduction of alternative livelihood programs to reduce the reliance on forest exploitation. Without such measures, Egerson warns, both the displaced communities and the environment face irreversible damage.

    This study underscores the pressing environmental challenges in the Niger Delta, particularly where displacement and ecological fragility intersect. Egerson’s findings stress the need for comprehensive solutions that address both the social and environmental aspects of displacement in Bayelsa State.

  • Seeking better remuneration for Nigerian journalists 

    Irrespective of the dwindling economy and the economic comatose we’ve plunged ourselves into in Nigeria, there’s a dire need to find ways of ameliorating the plights of journalists and other beleaguered Nigerians. Journalists and indeed all Nigerian workers deserve a better welfare either from both public and private corporations or organisations.

    There are indeed dark valleys of stagnation to the joyous daybreak of economic prosperity of Nigerians but, however, the welfare of journalists is paramount hence the need to stop paying lip service, providing good and accessible welfare services is undebatable because journalists are the voice or mouthpiece of the masses within and outside Nigeria.

    The horrendous situation journalists are facing in Nigeria has, however, prompted the Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism (PTCIJ) and the Coalition of Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) to strongly advocate better welfare for journalists. This laudable move is necessary to uphold the respect and dignity which has been accorded the media profession just like every other dignified professions in the world but in a pathetic situation whereby journalists are poorly paid or not being paid at all by their employers, they get hindered in performing their responsibilities as watchdogs of the society.

    The collaborative efforts of PTCIJ with other media agencies at this current dispensation are imperative to develop a roadmap for enhanced welfare for Nigerian journalists. Laban Maku once posited that “No investment in the media can succeed without proper investment in the welfare and development of media professionals and workers.”

    While we’ve all perceived that one of the welfare conundrum which can be tailored down to poor remuneration as one of the biggest challenges facing the profession, there’s need for better working conditions of service for journalists, especially those in the news room working for long hours – a palatable environment could suffice for this, including welfare provisions for journalists which will eschew them from any negative actions.

    Without much ado, for any organisation to function very effectively either big or small, the welfare of the staff of that organisation must first be taken into consideration as utmost priority because a staff who is not taken good care of cannot function with empty stomach.

    The need for Nigerian journalists to be well and adequately remunerated coupled with the needed welfare packages to enhance their duties must be strongly advocated because of the enormous sacrifices and valuable contributions to societal growth. So, therefore, a good pay is necessary so as not fall as a prey to monetary inducement.

    The continuous peculiarities which have been germane issues over the years in press advocacy have just been majorly centred on censorship, harassment and imprisonment of journalists while the overall working and welfare situation of journalists do not get larger percentage of attention.

    Akabogu, C.E (2005), in his paper, “The Ethical Journalist and Brown Envelop Syndrome: The Way Forward”, he posited that although some journalists will always take bribe money, the great majority of journalists take bribe money because they are generally not well paid, even in the face of a lot of financial problems within and outside their working environment.

    Sadly, journalists are left at cross roads in the country in respect to survival especially with plethora of issues ranging from non-payment of salaries to journalists when due; even the salaries are not enough to take care of the basic needs of the journalists, as well as lack of recognition and acknowledgements. The poor remuneration has, however, prompted handful of journalists to engage in the “Brown envelope” syndrome act, so at the end of the day, the stain on the profession becomes enormous.

    • Alao Abiodun, a journalist, writes from Lagos. He can be reached via Alaojoshua200@gmail.com

     

  • How Boniface Ogunti built entrepreneurial empire at 21

    How Boniface Ogunti built entrepreneurial empire at 21

    Boniface Ogunti is an African business magnate and global educator best known for being the founder and chairman of Current9.com, a leading world’s advertising agency which helps companies with online advertising and also helping experts start and grow a digital publishing business. Beyond Current9.com, Ogunti has led several global movements to redefine modern education where he teaches men and women from over 130 countries to develop advertising skills.

    The Liberian-born, US-based business magnate made over $2.5 million dollars at the young age of 21 and subsequently growing it to over $36 million dollars in a couple of years by running Facebook ads for eCommerce sales. But Ogunti didn’t have his path paved with gold, he walked the walk through the rough terrains of life, falling down and getting up every step of the way.

    “I started in business at a young age of 16 years. When I was 16 years old, I used to airbrush sneakers for people in my town and then when I was 17 to 18 years old, I also started a recording studio with $2,000 of the money I made from airbrushing shoes. When I was 18 years old I got into sales, selling TV service, door to door and in big box retailers. When I was 19 years old, I was also selling car insurance and when I was selling car insurance someone told me about selling products online,” Ogunti narrates in an interview, telling the story of his business growth.

    “I got into selling products online. That’s how I started my online store and the first year running my online store, I made $2.5 million dollars using Facebook ads. I came to the United States of America because there was a war in my country in West Africa Liberia. When I moved to the United States, I left my mom in Africa and I was living with my grandma. I went to high school like everyone else, but I dropped out to start my online business,” he adds

    Boniface now runs an e-commerce business as well as a shipping business. He has had many challenges in his path that have prevented him from doing his best. Boniface conquered them all, but the most crucial part of him getting through the obstacles was finding a good mentor to help lead him through the tough parts of the business.

    “I run an e-com business and also a shipping/ transportation business in my country, West Africa Liberia and also a consulting business education teaching people how to escape their 9 to 5 job. My biggest challenges were the resources that I needed, as in a mentor who already went through the ups and downs and learning from them. When I was starting, I tried to figure it out on my own and it was hard; it wasn’t until I met my first mentor. Having a mentor is the key to shortcut your success. Everyone needs a mentor.” Ogunti explains.

    Boniface Ogunti was born in Liberia on February 18, 1996. He runs many other businesses having failed in many others.

  • Rave 91.7 FM shines at Osun NUJ professional awards, wins radio station of the year

    Rave 91.7 FM shines at Osun NUJ professional awards, wins radio station of the year

    Rave 91.7 FM dominated the 2018 Osun NUJ Professional Awards, clinching the coveted Best Broadcasting Station of the Year award, while its Head of Station, Femi Olanipekun, was named Best Newscaster of the Year.

    The annual ceremony, organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun Council during her Press Week, celebrates outstanding journalism across seven categories, honoring excellence in Nigeria’s media landscape.

    Rave 91.7 FM earned the Best Broadcasting Station award for its innovative programming, accurate reporting, and community engagement, for the second straight year.

    The station’s redefinition of the broadcast landscape and its role in amplifying local voices impressed the awards panel, composed of seasoned media professionals. Femi Olanipekun, a respected broadcaster, and anchor of Frank Talk, the station’s flagship won Best Newscaster for his compelling delivery, clarity, and ability to connect with audiences, showcasing excellence in radio journalism.

    The Osun NUJ Professional Awards is a prestigious platform recognizing journalists who uphold high standards in Osun State. Open exclusively to NUJ members practicing locally, the awards require entrants to submit evidence of impactful work, endorsed by a peer, and judged on criteria like originality, ethical reporting, and societal influence.

    The Osun NUJ, a trusted voice in Nigeria’s media community, has earned a reputation for fostering professionalism, with its awards gaining prominence for spotlighting talent in a competitive field.

    Seven awards are presented annually, covering print, electronic, investigative, and visual journalism, as well as organizational excellence. Past recipients, including journalists from outlets like The Punch and Nigeria Television Authority, have achieved national recognition, with some shaping public policy through their reporting.

    The awards’ significance lies in their focus on local impact, celebrating journalists who inform and inspire Osun’s communities while adhering to global standards of excellence.

    Rave 91.7 FM’s double victory within three years of its existence highlights her growing influence in Nigeria’s media scene. “We’re honored to be recognized by the NUJ,” said Olanipekun, dedicating the awards to the station’s team and listeners. “This motivates us to keep delivering quality journalism that matters.”

    The ceremony, attended by media stakeholders and dignitaries, reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to recognizing excellence.

  • ‘Consistency and curiosity kept me going’ — FUTMinna’s best graduating student

    ‘Consistency and curiosity kept me going’ — FUTMinna’s best graduating student

    The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna), recently held its 27th Convocation Ceremony, where Bright Ugochukwu Ngozichukwu emerged as the overall best graduating student. The Chemical Engineering graduate finished with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.81 out of 5.00 and received several awards, including: Overall Best Graduating Student of the University; Vice Chancellor’s Award for the Best in the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology; Best in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Professor Onifade’s Best Graduating Student Award.

    At the convocation, the Vice Chancellor of FUT Minna described Bright’s graduation as the overall best student as a remarkable testament to excellence and hard work.

    He said: “Today, we recognize the hard work and dedication Bright Ugochukwu Ngozichukwu has consistently shown throughout his time at this university.

    “His graduation as the overall best student is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to what discipline and perseverance can achieve.

    “Beyond his academic record, his research on transforming agricultural residues into renewable energy is a remarkable example of how knowledge can be applied to solve pressing challenges in energy and the environment.

    “Bright embodies the values of FUT Minna; discipline, resilience, and creativity, and we are confident that his contributions will serve not just this institution and this nation, but the world at large.”

    In his interview with The Nation, Bright shares his modest beginnings, the sacrifices that shaped his journey, his undergraduate research on renewable energy, and his aspirations for the future.

    Tell us a bit about your family and early years.

    I grew up in a modest family where resources were limited, but education was always emphasized. My parents encouraged me to be curious. Growing up, I was fascinated by how raw materials were turned into finished products, whether it was fuel at the filling station or food being processed. I often asked questions about what steps made those transformations possible. That curiosity about processes shaped how I approached learning and eventually drew me into chemical engineering.

    How would you describe yourself as a student before you entered FUT Minna?

    I was always eager to learn and ask questions, even beyond the classroom. I didn’t necessarily think I would become the best graduating student, but I knew that if I worked consistently and stayed disciplined, I could excel. That mindset stayed with me when I got to the university.

    Did you ever imagine you would graduate as the best student?

    Honestly, no. My focus was never on competing with others but on being consistent. I believed that if I gave my best at each stage, the results would eventually reflect that effort. For me, it was more about discipline than about titles.

    What was your study routine like at the university?

    My routine was built around consistency and sacrifice. There were nights I stayed in the library till 2 a.m., and still had lectures the next morning. It was exhausting, but I kept telling myself that if I didn’t put in the work, I shouldn’t expect extraordinary results.

    Were there difficult moments when you felt like giving up?

    Yes, many times. The workload in Chemical Engineering is intense. Balancing lectures, labs, and research could be overwhelming. There were days I felt drained, but what kept me going was the conviction that perseverance is what separates success from failure.

    Did you receive any scholarships or financial support during your studies?

    Yes. I was fortunate to receive the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Undergraduate Scholarship, which is one of Nigeria’s most competitive awards. I also got the Education Opportunity for Nigeria Inc. Scholarship Award from Gainesville, Florida. These helped ease financial pressure and allowed me to focus more on my studies and research.

    What role did your lecturers and mentors play in your success?

    They played a huge role. I had lecturers who noticed my curiosity and encouraged me. They often said I went beyond what was required, asking questions that pushed discussions deeper. Their guidance and support really shaped my academic journey.

    Can you tell us about your undergraduate research project?

    My project focused on converting melon seed husk, an agricultural by-product, into biochar for use in direct carbon fuel cells. Through chemical analyses, we found the biochar had high fixed carbon content and strong calorific value. When tested in a fuel cell setup, it produced measurable voltage and power output.

    What makes this significant is that it ties directly to carbon capture and utilization. Agricultural residues like melon seed husk absorb CO₂ while growing. Instead of allowing them to decay and release that CO₂ back into the atmosphere, we converted them into a stable, carbon-rich material that can generate clean energy. In simple terms, it’s about taking “waste carbon” and putting it back into use in a sustainable cycle.

    That project reshaped my perspective on chemical engineering. It’s not just equations and processes; it’s about creating practical, low-cost technologies that reduce CO₂ emissions while providing renewable energy solutions.

    How did you feel on convocation day when your name was called multiple times?

    It was overwhelming and humbling. I didn’t go into school with the mindset of winning awards; I just wanted to do my best. But when my name kept being announced, I felt that all the late nights and sacrifices were worth it. Seeing my family, lecturers, and fellow students celebrate with me made the moment unforgettable.

    What are your future academic or career plans?

    I hope to first gain hands-on experience in the process industries. Working in industry will allow me to see how large-scale operations apply the concepts I studied in Chemical Engineering, and it will also satisfy my curiosity about how theory translates into real-world practice. A few years of industrial exposure will give me practical insights into process optimization, safety, and efficiency.

    After that, I plan to pursue my Ph.D., particularly in the United States of America, where I can build on my undergraduate research in energy sustainability and renewable energy. My interest is to advance this work by developing and applying new materials and catalytic systems that improve carbon capture, CO₂ conversion, and carbon-neutral energy production. Combining industry experience with advanced research will position me to design solutions that are both scientifically innovative and practically applicable in addressing the global challenge of climate change.

    What advice would you give to younger students?

    Work hard first; recognition and opportunities will follow. Be curious, stay consistent, and don’t let your background limit you. Success is built on resilience and the courage to keep going even when things get difficult. And always remember, where you start should never define how far you can go.

  • Scientists caution on air quality indices, health impacts in Ilorin

    Scientists caution on air quality indices, health impacts in Ilorin

    Two leading Nigerian environmental scientists, Raimi Morufu Olalekan and Stephen Olalekan Awogbami, have raised concern on the air quality in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria following a comprehensive scientific assessment of airborne pollutants and their health implications.

    Their study, which was published in the Scientific Research and Impact Journal, represents one of the most detailed analyses of urban air pollution in North-Central Nigeria. The research evaluated levels of particulate matter (PM₂. ₅ and PM₁₀), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and combustible gases (LEL) across 24 locations in Ilorin metropolis.

    According to Raimi, a seasoned environmentalist from Niger Delta University’s Department of Community Medicine, “Our findings show that while particulate matter levels were within national and WHO standards, the concentrations of volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde in some industrial zones exceeded acceptable thresholds. These pollutants pose serious respiratory and cardiovascular risks, especially for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.”

    The study’s results revealed that VOCs and formaldehyde reached levels categorized as “very unhealthy” and “hazardous”, while oxygen levels in certain zones were lower than WHO recommendations. These conditions, the researchers warn, could aggravate asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer, and contribute to long-term neurodegenerative illnesses.

    Stephen Awogbami, an environmental toxicologist  from Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, stressed that “The interplay of industrial emissions and urban activities in Ilorin contributes to an unhealthy air quality index that requires urgent mitigation. Without proactive intervention, residents could face an increase in respiratory and non-communicable diseases.”

    The research places Nigeria within the broader global context of air pollution challenges, aligning with OECD projections that air pollution may cause up to 9 million deaths annually by 2060. The scientists emphasized that Ilorin’s growing industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and lack of adequate air quality monitoring are major contributors to rising pollution levels.

     Awogbami explained that poor air quality is not only an environmental concern but also a public health emergency, noting that “Reducing air pollution saves lives, improves pregnancy outcomes, and enhances community productivity.” He urged state and federal governments to invest in continuous air quality monitoring, renewable energy transition, and stricter industrial emission regulations.

    The authors therefore call on the Kwara State Ministry of Environment to collaborate with national environmental agencies to establish a comprehensive Air Quality Management (AQM) framework for the region.

    Furthermore, the scientists advocate for public awareness campaigns, particularly in vulnerable communities, to inform citizens about the health risks of prolonged exposure to polluted air. They suggest that schools, hospitals, and residential areas should be strategically located away from high-pollution zones.

    The scientists concluded that while Ilorin’s current particulate levels may seem acceptable, the long-term cumulative exposure to industrial pollutants could result in severe health outcomes if not addressed. They called for multi-sectoral collaboration among government agencies, industries, and academia to safeguard public health and ensure environmental justice for all residents. In their words: “Clean air is a fundamental human right. Protecting it is protecting life itself.”

  • It’s important to pamper your skin, says Mimi Whyte-Femi

    It’s important to pamper your skin, says Mimi Whyte-Femi

    Skin therapist and aesthetician, Mimi Whyte Femi who founded and runs Skin Therapy Beauty and Spa has iterated the importance of the skin to the general well-being of a person, saying a good skin expresses beauty and class. She said to enhance your natural beauty and look younger, proper skincare is needed with all attention and commitment.

    She also said that the skin, being the largest organ in the body and the first line of defence against any external intruder deserves optimum care as it serves as a protection to other delicate parts of the body.

    “I believe it is very important in general to care and pamper your Skin and Self as it represents you for the rest of your life. A good skincare is not only healthy in many respects, it is also Anti-aging. It just keeps your skin looking younger as the day goes by. Our in-house services are very relaxing and calming; they relief pain , stress and improve your general wellness. Taking good care of your skin boosts your confidence level as there’s just this confidence you have/feel having a healthy glowing skin free from acne , sunburn etc,” she said.

    Read Also; Women bleaching skins prone to cancer of kidney, infertility, says Gynaecologist

    She also said that, due to its largeness, the skin is the first thing one sees and appreciates. According to her, a good skin not only expresses beauty and class but tells the health status of a person.

    “Honestly, taking good care of the skin means adequately protecting the skin from the UV rays and harsh chemicals from the environment and work activities. Besides protection of the skin, treating one’s skin also means restoring, sustaining and improving appearance. When we look good, we feel good. That is why skin care is so important: it makes one look good, it keeps your skin healthy, and you will feel good,” she said.

    Mimi Whyte Femi did not find herself in the beauty business by accident, it was a passion she had from a tender age and she says there is a sort of inner joy she feels helping people treating and solving their skin problems.

    “Growing up I used to be the one in the house to help my sisters , aunties or friends get products to close out their spots , acne etc. So for me, it’s a thing of passion and I’m glad I have been able to boost confidence levels and change lives. I even have clients who have given me gifts just to say “thank you” for helping them restore their confidence,” she added with pride.

    Mimi Whyte Femi founded Skin Therapy Beauty and Spa in 2012. Over the years she has grown the brand and taken it to the top of the ladder in the beauty industry. Apart from resolving skin issues she offers other ancillary services such as body massage and more.

    “I’m an internationally licensed aesthetician and skin therapist so I also consult with clients on what products or treatment services they will need to achieve a healthy glowing skin . Also, Skin Therapy Beauty and Spa is an aesthetic spa that provides both skin care products and several treatment services for all skin types to help treat , even out and glow the skin. We have got Aesthetic Hollywood most sought after machines on ground to help tackle and battle all types of skin issues to reveal a more flawless glowing skin,” she said.

    “So, trust me when I say every man or woman that visits us leaves very happy. Also taking care of the skin is a major deal and we treat all forms of skin issues which includes stretchmarks, uneven skin tone, acne , sun damage , dark & burnt knuckles , highly damaged skin from using products which harmful chemicals etc .So we have got loads of clients all over Nigeria and the world. As we are the best in the game .

  • How Milani Exotic Rental adds colour to proms

    How Milani Exotic Rental adds colour to proms

    Every culture, race, people, individuals and beyond have a way of celebrating uncommon events. Some of these events become more important especially when it comes up once in a lifetime like proms.

    The prom is one of a kind of events that young high school leavers look forward to having with great anticipation and expectation and Milani Exotic Car Rental helps to create avenues to make the prom experience an indelible one.

    According to a statement from Milani Exotic Car Rental, they understand this and the need to make such an occasion memorable.

    “As our business demands we give the unusual touch, style, elegance and glamour that your event needs to make an unforgettable experience. We also go as far as having customized services outside the official options we have as long as it is within the jurisdiction of car rentals and exotic cars service.

    “More so we will stop at nothing to make our customer satisfaction our priority. At Milani Exotic Car Rental we have all the exotic fleet of cars that will make your day. All vehicles in our fleet can either be Chauffeured driven or can be rented at a daily rate,” the statement reads.

    Milani Exotic Car Rental, is the premier exotic car rental service and private jet charter in Atlanta, GA. With locations at both DeKalb-Peachtree (PDK) Airport or Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) Airport, and delivery options throughout Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee, no local luxury car rental business covers as much ground as Milani.

    They offer a huge selection of elite luxury cars and SUVs from manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Mercedes, Cadillac, Maserati, Range Rover, BMW and Porsche.

    They also provide full-compliment wedding and chauffeur services, as well as in-demand cars for film and photo shoots.

  • Akinpelu Ayuba bags first-class honor in Chemical Engineering

    Akinpelu Ayuba has set a new benchmark in academic achievement at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, marking an inspiring journey of resilience and strategic foresight. Graduating from the Department of Chemical Engineering with First-Class honors, Ayuba reached one of the highest GPAs in department, a milestone achieved through a mix of hard work and innovative planning.

    In a recent interview, Ayuba shared that his accomplishment was not solely due to diligence; rather, he adopted a proactive approach to his academic pursuits. While Ayuba had consistently worked toward high grades, he discovered an underused option within the department’s structure—additional coursework for credit, available to students who could manage it. This allowed him the opportunity to elevate his GPA, an approach rarely pursued by others.

    Realizing he was within reach of First-Class honors, Ayuba seized the moment during his final semester. Though his course load was already intense, with 21 credits, the university policy permitted up to 24 credits under certain conditions. Knowing the stakes, Ayuba decided to add an extra three-credit course, aware that the challenge could be immense yet rewarding. “Achieving a First-Class degree was a long-held dream,” Ayuba explained. “When I saw that I could reach it by taking a few additional credits, I knew I had to push myself to the limit. It wasn’t easy, but I believed that with focused effort, I could succeed.”

    Ayuba’s resolve bore fruit as he excelled in each course, boosting his GPA to the First-Class level. His achievement has now become a beacon of inspiration for students across Nigeria, encouraging them to think creatively and strategically about their academic paths.

    More than an academic feat, Ayuba’s story illustrates the power of resilience and calculated risks in realizing one’s goals. His success serves as a testament to the value of setting ambitious targets and tackling them with both persistence and a strategic mindset. Ayuba’s message to students is clear: sometimes, reaching your goals requires stepping outside the norm and taking informed risks.

    Today, Akinpelu Ayuba stands as a model for students nationwide. His story underscores the potential of hard work, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination in achieving excellence, creating a legacy that will inspire future engineers to pursue their own paths with both passion and purpose.

  • Ugwueze, Mbamalu emerge winners at innovation fair with breakthrough energy technologies

    Ugwueze, Mbamalu emerge winners at innovation fair with breakthrough energy technologies

    In a remarkable display of innovation, Martin Mbamalu’s groundbreaking work on the “Firewood Saving Stove” and Emeka Ugwueze’s “AKPAIKE (Power box) a portable hydroelectric generator” emerged joint winners at the prestigious 2017 “Ola Ndi Igbo” Inventions and Innovations Fair.

    Mbamalu’s “Firewood Saving Stove” is designed to reduce harmful environmental and health impacts associated with traditional firewood usage, offering a practical solution to clean and efficient energy access.

    “I am passionate about solving real-world problems through sustainable technology. This stove represents a leap forward in both energy efficiency and environmental protection,” said Mbamalu. Ugwueze’s “AKPAIKE (Power box), a portable hydroelectric generator” offers a renewable energy solution for remote areas with water resources.

    He said, “I believe that innovation can transform lives and communities. My work is dedicated to providing sustainable energy solutions for those who need it most.”

    The Ola Ndi Igbo Inventions Fair celebrates individuals of Igbo descent who have made significant contributions to their professions, particularly those whose work has had a global impact.

    The event provides a platform for innovators to share their ideas and attract support from sponsors and mentors. The winning projects were selected by a diverse panel of judges, including notable figures from academia, industry, and government.

    The inventions were exhibited and pitched at the fair, allowing judges and visitors to inspect the innovations firsthand and make informed decisions.

    Speaking at the event, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, Former Minister of Education, in her keynote address expressed excitement at the display of innovative ideas by young Nigerians who can be seen as role models for others.

    Ezekweseli said: “I am thrilled to see our innovators recognized for their outstanding contributions to sustainable energy solutions. Their work is a testament to the power of human ingenuity in addressing critical global challenges.”

    According to Professor Barth Okolo, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), “The fair is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Igbo people. We are proud to recognize and support innovators like Mbamalu and Ugwueze who are driving systemic change through their work.”

    CN Agulanna, Director General of the Projects Development Agency (PRODA) also commented, saying: “We are committed to supporting innovators who are addressing critical challenges in energy access, environmental sustainability, and economic development. The work of Mbamalu and Ugwueze is a shining example of the impact that innovation can have on society.”