The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 8,000 join global march to end violence against women, girls

    8,000 join global march to end violence against women, girls

    Eight thousand participants across three continents gathered in Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Accra, Nairobi, London, Paris, Frankfurt, and major cities in Europe and the United States, including New York, Atlanta, Houston, and Washington DC to march against violence toward women and girls as part of the 7th Global WARIF No Tolerance Agenda.

    The 7th WARIF No Tolerance March was held in commemoration of the 2025 United Nations 16 Days of Activism under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

    Participants from around the world demonstrated a powerful show of solidarity and a firm commitment to ending violence against women and girls (VAWG). 

    This year marked a major milestone for the global campaign against gender-based violence.

    Communities in each city—led by advocates, survivors, civil society organisations, government representatives, and supporters—gathered to raise awareness and declare zero tolerance for gender-based violence.

    In Lagos, the march took place across the iconic Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge and was flagged off by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, who emphasized the impact of collective action. 

    The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and representatives of government agencies were also in attendance.

    In Abuja, the march was organised in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women’s Affairs, the Senate Committee on Women’s Affairs, UN Women, Medicaid Foundation, and several CSOs. 

    It was flagged off by Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu and the Minister of Women’s Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. Over 5,000 participants marched to the Old Parade Ground.

    Accra hosted its own march at the Legon Botanical Gardens in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. In Nairobi, Ms. Ohi led a group standing firmly against sexual violence. In London, WARIF ambassadors mobilised young advocates. 

    Paris saw Blessing Adesiyan lead participants at Les Bulles de Paris, while in Houston, Sarah Adeyeye led the march at Sugarland Memorial Park.

    Founder of WARIF, Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, highlighted the global impact of the movement, noting increased awareness, empowerment of survivors, growth in youth advocacy, and strengthened international collaboration.

    Proceeds from the marches will support essential post-incident services—including forensic medical care, psychosocial counselling, and social welfare support for survivors of rape and sexual violence.

    The WARIF No Tolerance March, an annual global initiative, continues to expand as a worldwide movement dedicated to eliminating gender-based violence. 

    The Foundation encouraged individuals, organisations, and communities worldwide to continue supporting its efforts to protect and empower women and girls.

    Founded in response to rising cases of sexual violence, rape, and human trafficking affecting women and girls in Nigeria, WARIF provides intervention services, education, prevention initiatives, and community outreach programmes aimed at reducing gender-based violence in Nigeria and beyond.

  • HJRBDA boss hails Tinubu over students’ rescue operation

    HJRBDA boss hails Tinubu over students’ rescue operation

    Managing Director of Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Alhaji Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, on Tuesday commended President Bola Tinubu for his decisive and personal intervention in the successful rescue operations of the abducted students from Kebbi and Niger States.

    In a statement issued from his office in Kano, Alhaji Bichi expressed profound appreciation for the president’s demonstration of “exceptional leadership and deep-seated concern” for the security and welfare of Nigerian citizens.

    “We must acknowledge and sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu for his great concern and bold moves taken in rescuing our precious children.

    “History shows that while past administrations often limited their response to strong condemnations, President Tinubu went a decisive step further by personally aborting an important international trip to Johannesburg to commandeer the rescue mission.

    “This hands-on approach underscores a new proactive standard in leadership at the highest level,” Alhaji Bichi stated.

    The HJRBDA boss observed what he described as a concerning trend in public discourse, where tragedies are met with swift condemnation of the government and blame placed on the president, often with accusations of inaction.

    “It has become a pattern that when such heartbreaking tragedies strike, the focus is predominantly to blame the government and the president for allowing it to happen or for perceived delays in response.

    “However, there is a palpable reluctance to extend credit to where it is due when the same president and our security forces especially the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, demonstrated courage, dedication, and ultimately averted greater catastrophe, rescuing the victims,” he noted.

    Alhaji Bichi emphasised that while holding leadership accountable is a vital aspect of democracy, fairness demands that exemplary acts of courage and successful operations should also attract national acknowledgment and support. 

    This, he argued, strengthens national morale, motivates security agencies and in this regard, will encourage the leaders to ensure successful rescue of all the kidnap victims.

    According to Bichi, the successful rescue of the affected students is a victory for the nation, made possible by the president’s direct involvement and the tireless efforts of our security personnel.

    He noted, “Let us be a people who are balanced in our engagement—constructive in criticism, but also generous in praise where praise is earned. This is essential for building a united front against the challenges we face.”

    Bichi reiterated the commitment of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority under his leadership in supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government, particularly in fostering sustainable development and security in communities.

  • Wizkid’s son Champz reveals inspirations behind debut EP

    Wizkid’s son Champz reveals inspirations behind debut EP

    Champz, the 14-year-old son of global superstar, Wizkid, has opened up about the musical influences shaping his breakthrough project, Champion’s Arrival.

    In a recent interview with Glitch Africa, Champz mentioned UK rappers and Afro-fusion artists J Hus, Asko, Nines, and Clavish as key inspirations behind his debut EP.

    The young rapper’s sound blends Afro-swing and UK drill styles, characterised by gritty flows and street-rooted narratives.

    Champion’s Arrival has broken records, reaching Number one on Apple Music Nigeria’s top albums chart within five hours of release and amassing over a million streams in 24 hours. 

  • Gov Sani tasks lawyers on ethical rebirth

    Gov Sani tasks lawyers on ethical rebirth

    Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has urged legal practitioners to recommit themselves to integrity, professionalism and the defence of democracy.

    The governor, who gave the charge at the Annual Bar Dinner and Award Night organized by the Kaduna Branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), said public confidence in the justice system cannot be restored without a deliberate ethical rebirth within the bar and the bench.

    Represented by the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister James Kanyip, the governor said the Annual Bar Dinner and Award Night offered an opportunity to reflect on the past and recommit to values that define a fair and functional justice system.

    Governor Sani noted that the gathering was not merely celebratory but a reaffirmation of the state’s “unwavering dedication to the legal profession,” adding that lawyers must continue to protect the scales of justice with fairness to both the powerful and the vulnerable.

    He said the legal community must maintain the highest standards in practice, ensuring that the delivery of justice remains accessible, swift and credible. 

    According to him, “Our tireless efforts must ensure the scales of justice are balanced between the public and private sectors, the rich and the poor, irrespective of social class or status.”

    The governor stressed that the legal profession plays a pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, insisting that any decline in public trust poses risks not only for justice delivery but for national stability.

    Guest speaker at the event, former Senator Bala Ibn Na’allah, echoed similar concerns, warning that Nigeria’s justice system is facing a crisis of confidence largely fuelled by internal failures within the bar and bench.

    Na’allah questioned why the controversies surrounding ex parte orders, interference and delays in justice delivery persist in Nigeria but are absent in legal systems from which the country borrowed its laws. 

    He argued that the situation reflects deep structural and ethical problems that must be confronted.

    According to him, the challenges “are a direct failure of our justice delivery system,” adding that unless lawyers and judicial officers “look inward and address those issues,” public confidence will continue to dwindle.

    The former Senator said both the bar and the bench must accept responsibility for current lapses, insisting that “something is definitely wrong” and that a profession known for social engineering cannot afford to lose its moral authority.

    NBA Kaduna Branch Chairman, Barrister Baba Lawal Aliyu, said the annual dinner serves as a moment of camaraderie and reflection, as members eat, interact, honour excellence and recommit to the ideals of justice. 

    He said the branch is deliberately confronting the declining public perception of the legal profession.

    According to him, despite Nigeria adopting similar legal principles with advanced jurisdictions, justice delivery in the country remains slow and heavily technical. 

    He expressed hope that reforms and renewed commitment within the profession would eventually restore efficiency and public trust.

    A major highlight of the night was the presentation of awards to notable Nigerians who have contributed to justice, peacebuilding and legal development within and beyond Kaduna State.

    Top among the honourees was the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, who received the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Ambassador Award for his role in resolving over 2,000 community disputes through traditional mechanisms outside the courts.

    The branch also honoured the late Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed, former Chief Justice of Nigeria; and the late Justice Kumai Aka’ahs, former Justice of the Supreme Court, including posthumous recognitions for past secretaries and prominent bar leaders who served the judiciary with distinction.

    Barrister Aliyu said the awards represent the branch’s effort to celebrate dedication, integrity and service, while inspiring younger lawyers to pursue excellence and uphold the profession’s finest traditions.

    The event, which featured dinner, music and networking among legal practitioners, ended with a renewed call for unity, introspection and higher ethical standards in the practice of law across Kaduna State and the country.

  • Mbah seeks review of financing models for manufacturing sector

    Mbah seeks review of financing models for manufacturing sector

    Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s current financing frameworks for the manufacturing sector.

    The governor warned that commercial interest rates hovering between 30 and 37 percent are “completely incompatible with industrial growth and competitiveness.” 

    Represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai at the 37th Annual General Meeting, Awards and Gala Night of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Southeast in Enugu, Mbah said manufacturers could not thrive under a credit environment designed to “suffocate production rather than stimulate it.”

    He noted that while single-digit intervention loans exist through development finance institutions, such as the Bank of Industry, access remains limited. 

    Mbah proposed the establishment of more regional offices for development banks to eliminate bottlenecks and bring affordable financing closer to manufacturers. 

    The governor also underscored the necessity of strengthening research institutions and linking them directly to industry, insisting that meaningful backward integration depends on robust R&D capabilities.

    Special guest of honour and member representing Imo West Senatorial District, Senator Osita Izunaso, reinforced Mbah’s position, describing the financing and forex environment as major constraints to the sector. 

    Izunaso urged MAN to partner state governments to conduct seismic studies on the Anambra trough, saying unlocking the region’s vast gas reserves would provide manufacturers with reliable and cheaper industrial energy.

    He further disclosed that the National Assembly has passed a landmark bill mandating the use of at least 30 percent local raw materials by manufacturers, a legislative tool he said would accelerate backward integration once it receives Presidential assent. 

    “This is the direction the world is moving, and Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind,” he added.

    MAN Southeast Chairman, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, described the AGM as a decisive moment for repositioning the region’s industries amidst sweeping fiscal reforms. 

    She said MAN’s partnership with PwC on tax sensitization helped manufacturers navigate regulatory changes and reduce compliance risks in 2025.

    Chukwudozie also emphasized the need to eliminate multiple taxation, expand sustainable energy adoption, and strengthen modern agriculture, such as hydroponics, greenhouse farming and agro-processing, as a foundation for raw-material security and rural industrialization.

    Delivering the keynote, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, Director General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, said backward integration must now be the default strategy for Nigerian manufacturers. 

    “We cannot build a first-world manufacturing sector on a third-world import-dependence structure,” he warned, stressing that import substitution is central to stabilizing prices and protecting the naira.

    The royal father of the day, His Eminence Eze Eberechukwu Oji, Eze-Aro of Arochukwu, urged MAN to lead a regional agenda for reviving over 1,000 dormant industries in the Southeast, insisting that every imported product represents an exported job.

    The AGM, chaired by Chief Obinna Iyiegbu of Cubana Group, drew top industrialists, policymakers, traditional rulers and business leaders from across Nigeria. 

    Awards of Excellence were presented to distinguished manufacturers and institutions for their contributions to innovation, industrial growth and community development.

  • ‘Incorporate modern additives, construction enhancers into public projects’

    ‘Incorporate modern additives, construction enhancers into public projects’

    Managing Director of Axion Engineering, Mr. Okey Eze, has called for stronger enforcement to ensure that modern additives and construction enhancers are incorporated into public projects.

    He stressed that such measures would yield long-term value for the country.

    Eze spoke when Axion Engineering, in partnership with CM Services Limited, unveiled a new line of innovative construction products designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen infrastructure across Nigeria and other African countries.

    He said the company’s products were already gaining traction across the continent, helping to transform construction practices.

    He said, “Other African countries have found interest in what we are doing, helping the construction industry. 

    “We have continued to level up to see how we can add value as far as saving costs and giving you durable roads and good buildings. We are here to help Africa as a whole with construction innovation.”

    Eze expressed appreciation to the federal government for its support toward Axion’s growth, saying the administration had provided opportunities for youth training and approved the company’s products for use by the Federal Ministry of Works.

    “It is also under this government that we got approval for our products to be used by the Federal Ministry of Works. 

    “What we are going to do as an innovative company is to continue to encourage the government to ensure such products are used in the industry. 

    “It is one thing to approve and another to implement it,” he said.

    Managing Director of CM Services Limited, Ms. Catherine Kadiri, described the launch as a milestone for the construction sector. 

    She said the Axion product line was created to address the everyday challenges faced by professionals on-site.

    “For every engineer, builder, technician, and artisan who has struggled with delays, tough surfaces, or repairs that simply refuse to last… Axion was created with you in mind,” she said.

    Kadiri explained that the new products offer improved bonding, stronger surface protection, reduced waste, and faster application time, ultimately helping builders “work smarter, not harder.”

    She added that the construction landscape is evolving rapidly, with growing expectations and pressure for durable, high-quality work delivered at speed. 

    According to her, Axion’s solutions represent the future of construction in Nigeria.

    “Construction is changing. Our communities are growing, expectations are rising, and the demand for quality and speed has never been higher,” she said. 

    “Axion represents that future where challenges on site don’t slow us down, where quality is consistent, and excellence becomes the standard.”

    Kadiri said the launch signifies an opening to new opportunities for craftsmanship, efficiency, and industry-wide growth.

    “We are not just launching a brand; we are opening the door to new opportunities for our industry,” she added.

    The event drew industry professionals, partners, and stakeholders who described the initiative as a timely intervention to boost innovation and raise construction standards across the country.

  • FSS Oyo hails NELFUND for boosting access to education

    FSS Oyo hails NELFUND for boosting access to education

    The Federal School of Survey (FSS) Oyo has commended the federal government’s NELFUND policy, describing it as a vital initiative that has helped bring education closer to underprivileged communities.

    The institution, whose 22nd set of graduands are the pioneer beneficiaries of the fund, noted that it has greatly benefitted from the educational policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the school’s 22nd convocation, Rector Surv. Dupe Olayinka-Dosumun called for increased and sustained funding from the federal government. 

    She emphasised the need for financial support from both the Presidency and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, particularly for ongoing projects that have yet to receive adequate funding.

    Surv. Olayinka-Dosumun expressed gratitude for timely government interventions and assured that the school will continue to play a strategic role in developing manpower for Nigeria’s surveying and mapping sector. She affirmed that management, staff, and students remain committed to ensuring that government investments are used judiciously.

    “This great citadel, which is the Beacon of Modern Surveying and Geoinformatics and other Allied courses in Nigeria and sub-Sahara Africa in her existence over a century has produces Professionals, Technologists, Technicians of high reputes in field of Surveying and Geoinformatics and other related programmes for the National Economy in a sustainable and conducive learning environment.

    “Please note that many of the Doyens in Surveying Profession and countless Surveyor General passed through this institution.

    “I am to inform this assembly that the School within the last four (4) years when we had the 21st Convocation Ceremony (December 2021) had witnessed lots of pragmatic developments as the School Management continue to work hard to elevate the status of Federal School of Surveying, Oyo to an enviable height.

    “Many challenges facing the country at the moment requires the expertise of Map Makers and Geomaticians deploring the use of modern Technology to solve, I therefore want to congratulate all our graduands because you have acquired the right knowledge as your inputs is highly needed in this trying times.”

  • The Evolution of AI Visual Transformation: From Face Swaps to Photo-to-Anime Art

    The Evolution of AI Visual Transformation: From Face Swaps to Photo-to-Anime Art

    Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how we create and interact with images. From swapping faces in videos to turning selfies into anime characters, AI-driven visual transformation tools are shaping the future of digital creativity.

    In 2025, two of the most exciting innovations leading this creative movement are Face Swap APIs and Photo-to-Anime AI Generators. These tools empower developers, creators, and everyday users to produce captivating visual content with just a few clicks — blending technology and imagination in remarkable ways.

    Let’s explore how these tools work, why they’re trending, and how platforms like VModel AI and AI Anime are taking them to the next level.

    🔄 What Is a Face Swap API?

    A faceswap api is an artificial intelligence interface that allows developers and applications to swap faces between photos or videos automatically. Unlike traditional editing software, which requires manual alignment and blending, a Face Swap API performs these actions instantly through machine learning models.

    The process involves detecting facial landmarks, mapping expressions, and seamlessly blending textures — resulting in natural, realistic swaps that are often indistinguishable from the original footage.

    Developers can integrate these APIs into social media apps, entertainment platforms, and video production tools to give users instant access to high-quality face swaps.

    🧠 How Face Swap Technology Works

    Modern face swap tools rely on deep learning models such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and autoencoders. These models are trained on vast datasets of human faces, learning to identify subtle details like skin tone, lighting, facial structure, and movement.

    Here’s a simplified process:

    1. Face Detection: The system locates the faces in a photo or video frame.
    2. Feature Mapping: AI identifies and matches facial features (eyes, nose, mouth, jawline).
    3. Alignment & Blending: The new face is aligned over the original and blended seamlessly.
    4. Rendering: The final image or video looks realistic, maintaining expression and motion.

    Thanks to real-time rendering and cloud-based processing, these swaps can happen instantly — even on mobile devices.

    💼 Real-World Uses of Face Swap APIs

    Face swapping has evolved beyond entertainment and memes. Today, businesses and creators are using it for:

    • Film and Content Production: Actors can perform multiple roles digitally or localize content for global markets.
    • Marketing and Advertising: Brands can create personalized video ads featuring customers or influencers.
    • Gaming and AR: Users can insert their own faces into avatars for immersive experiences.
    • Education and Research: AI models are trained to understand identity mapping and image recognition.

    ⚙️ Spotlight: VModel AI — Advanced Face Swap API for Developers

    One standout solution in this space is VModel AI, an advanced Face Swap API designed for high-performance, realistic face replacement.

    Unlike generic face swap tools, VModel AI is built for scalability — enabling developers to integrate powerful AI-driven face transformation into apps, games, and production workflows.

    Key Features of VModel AI:

    • Realistic swaps with accurate facial alignment and emotion retention.
    • Video compatibility, allowing seamless frame-by-frame face swaps.
    • Fast API integration for developers using Python, Node.js, or REST endpoints.
    • Privacy-first approach — images are processed securely with no data retention.

    Whether for content creation, entertainment, or AI research, VModel AI’s Face Swap API makes high-quality digital identity transformation accessible to everyone.

    🧚‍♀️ The Rise of Photo-to-Anime AI

    While face swapping reimagines identity in realistic terms, another AI trend takes creativity in a more artistic direction: Photo-to-Anime AI generation.

    This technology allows users to upload a photo — whether it’s a portrait, pet image, or landscape — and instantly transform it into a hand-drawn anime-style artwork.

    Driven by deep neural networks trained on thousands of anime images, these models analyze visual features such as facial shape, lighting, and expression, and then recreate them in stylized anime form.

    🎨 Why Photo-to-Anime Tools Are So Popular

    1. Personal Expression: Users can turn their selfies into anime avatars for social media.
    2. Fan Art Creation: Artists use AI as a base for unique anime illustrations.
    3. Gaming & VR: Anime avatars are used in role-playing and metaverse environments.
    4. Entertainment & Marketing: Brands use anime-style visuals to appeal to younger audiences.

    The ability to convert a photo to anime instantly has democratized digital art creation, giving non-artists a chance to experience creative storytelling through AI.

    ✨ AI Anime — Bringing Your Photos to Life in Anime Style

    One of the most intuitive tools in this space is AI Anime, a platform that specializes in transforming real images into high-quality anime portraits.

    Using deep learning and artistic modeling, AI Anime analyzes your uploaded photo and converts it into a beautifully detailed anime version — complete with expressive eyes, vibrant colors, and smooth shading.

    What Makes AI Anime Stand Out:

    • Instant photo-to-anime conversion with realistic detail.
    • Multiple art styles — from classic manga to modern digital anime.
    • Privacy protection — uploaded images are processed securely.
    • High-resolution output, perfect for avatars, prints, or creative projects.

    Whether you’re a casual anime fan or a content creator, AI Anime makes it easy to bring imagination to life with just one click.

    🧩 How Face Swap and Photo-to-Anime Tools Complement Each Other

    Interestingly, Face Swap APIs and Photo-to-Anime generators are part of the same creative AI ecosystem — both focus on visual transformation and digital identity.

    • Face Swap APIs, like VModel AI, focus on realism — replacing faces in videos or images with lifelike precision.
    • Photo-to-Anime AI, like AI Anime, transforms realism into stylized art — offering an expressive reinterpretation.

    Together, they highlight how AI is not just automating creativity but expanding its boundaries — letting humans explore new identities, styles, and expressions effortlessly.

    🧠 Ethical Considerations

    As these technologies evolve, ethical use becomes increasingly important. Developers and users alike must ensure:

    • Consent before swapping or modifying faces.
    • Transparency in how AI-generated content is created.
    • Respect for artists and original creators whose work inspires AI training models.

    Both VModel AI and AI Anime emphasize data privacy and responsible AI development — setting standards for ethical innovation.

    🚀 The Future of Visual AI Creation

    The next generation of visual AI tools will merge face swap APIs, anime generation, and even real-time animation. Imagine:

    • Live video filters that transform your face into anime characters instantly.
    • Interactive avatars powered by voice and emotion recognition.
    • Cloud APIs that enable personalized AI storytelling in games and media.

    The boundary between human creativity and artificial intelligence is fading — and tools like VModel AI and AI Anime are leading the charge.

    🏁 Final Thoughts

    From realistic face swaps to anime-inspired self-portraits, AI has become the ultimate creative companion. These tools empower users not only to experiment with identity and style but also to bridge technology with artistry.

    If you’re a developer looking for powerful face swap API integration, explore VModel AI — a platform built for accuracy, performance, and reliability.

    Or, if you’re ready to bring your imagination to life and see yourself in anime form, try AI Anime, the easiest and most artistic photo-to-anime generator available today.

    In the era of AI-powered creativity, the only limit is how far your imagination will go.

  • IYC faults Reps’ 72-hour ultimatum to PAP coordinator Otuaro

    IYC faults Reps’ 72-hour ultimatum to PAP coordinator Otuaro

    The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has criticised the recent decision of the House of Representatives to issue a 72-hour ultimatum to the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, warning that such an approach could undermine peace efforts in the Niger Delta.

    The ultimatum, which threatens an arrest warrant should Otuaro fail to appear before the Public Accounts Committee, has drawn strong concern from the Council.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday by its national spokesman, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, the IYC said that while it recognises the role of legislative oversight, the timing and tone of the directive amount to an unnecessary distraction capable of derailing ongoing peace-building and development initiatives in the region.

    Princewill noted that since assuming office as PAP Administrator, Dr. Otuaro has demonstrated strong commitment through consistent stakeholder engagement, prompt payment of stipends to beneficiaries, and expanded opportunities in scholarship and vocational training.

    He emphasised that the PAP is crucial for maintaining peace in the Niger Delta, and to threaten Otuaro with arrest for addressing procedural inquiries undermines the progress made.

    Furthermore, Princewill urged the House of Representatives to reconsider its priorities in the llight of widespread security issues, inflation, and economic hardship facing the nation.

    He said the Council believed that parliamentary efforts should be focused on addressing these pressing challenges rather than targeting a single public official. 

    He advocated for a redirect of resources to enhance security measures and provide economic relief to the populace, aligning with the responsibilities of elected representatives.

    The spokesman said, “Our people are dying from banditry, kidnapping and economic distress. The National Assembly’s attention would be better served by working with the President of Nigeria in addressing these pressing issues instead of issuing arrest warrants that could be perceived as politically motivated.

    “The Council also highlighted that the alleged financial discrepancies cited in the Auditor‑General’s report are being examined through the appropriate channels and that the PAP Administrator has already pledged full cooperation with the audit process as government is a continuous process. 

    “Any attempt to criminalise the programme’s leadership without due process risks eroding public trust and could reignite tensions in the region.”

    The IYC spokesman, therefore, called on the House of Representatives to rescind the 72‑hour ultimatum and withdraw the threat of an arrest warrant against Dr. Dennis Otuaro, engage constructively with the PAP leadership to resolve audit queries in a transparent and lawful manner.

    He equally urged them to prioritise legislative action that addresses the nation’s security challenges and economic hardships.

    “The IYC remains committed to advocating for the rights and development of the Ijaw people and the entire Niger Delta. We stand ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure that peace, justice and prosperity prevail across Nigeria,” Amb. Princewill stated.

  • Experts urge MTU students to adopt emerging technologies

    Experts urge MTU students to adopt emerging technologies

    Speakers at the seventh International Conference on Entrepreneurship, of Mountain Top University, Ogun State, have urged Nigerian students and institutions to embrace artificial intelligence, digital skills, and industry collaboration as the future of work rapidly evolves.

    The event had academics, innovators, and industry leaders in attendance. 

    The Guest Lecturer and head of ICT/ Business Process Operations at the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company, Dr. Kola Olatinwo, said AI was no longer optional for young entrepreneurs, warning that failure to adopt emerging technologies would leave Nigeria behind in global innovation.

    “AI provides an opportunity to reduce cost, reduce staffing burden, and solve real-life problems.

    “Students must begin to think as entrepreneurs while still in school. Don’t wait to graduate before building solutions,” he said. 

    Olatinwo, who is also CEO of One Innovation Hub in Kwara State, said Nigerian startups were already proving what was possible. 

    He cited AIQ, SiteMap, and ePail, a defense and surveillance tech company, as examples of homegrown innovation.

    He stressed that universities must deepen partnerships with the industry.

    “There is a gap between the data we have and those using it. Universities must guide students, attach them to industries, and push hackathons—not just lectures.”

    He added that with over 20 startups incubated through his hub, Nigerian youths only need mentorship and the courage to “think more in-depth and solve Nigeria’s own problems.”

    Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at MTU and host of the conference, Prof. Patience Erigbe, said digital transformation had become inseparable from entrepreneurship, especially in the post-COVID era.

    “COVID-19 disrupted everything. The digital era has emerged stronger, but many are still not aware of how to use these tools entrepreneurially,” she said.

    She noted that MTU was intentional about bridging the digital divide through hands-on entrepreneurship training.

    “Our Chancellor’s vision is that every student must graduate with at least one or two vocational skills in addition to their certificate.

    “Many of our graduates are already entrepreneurs before leaving school,” she said. 

    Erigbe said the forthcoming student-run trade fair was part of MTU’s culture of raising “studentpreneurs.”

    Her message to participants, “Take charge. Embrace the digital space and make the best use of it—for work, creativity, and entrepreneurship.”

    Delivering the keynote address titled “The Digital Drumbeat: Rhythms of Innovation, Inclusion and Enterprise,” Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Prof. Oyedunmi Sola Arulogun, said Africa was at a turning point.

    Drawing from African proverbs and vivid metaphors, Arulogun said,

    “In Africa, when the drum beats, the community gathers. Today, the drumbeat we must follow is digital. And the call is clear: Innovate, include and enterprise.”

    She described data as the new oil—one that “multiplies when shared.”

    Arulogun challenged universities to evolve from “ivory towers to innovation towers,” urging lecturers to become mentors and students to become problem solvers.

    On innovation, she said, “Innovation requires foresight—and foresight demands courage. No brain in this room is expired.”

    She warned against digital inequality,

    “Innovation without inclusion is like a drum without rhythm. Digital transformation must not widen the gap between those who can and those who cannot.”

    On entrepreneurship, she emphasized that the modern entrepreneur was not defined by a physical shop. “The marketplace today has no borders,” she said, citing the drama performed earlier where a tomato seller could reach Canada through digital tools.

    Arulogun also spoke bluntly about ethics, condemning idea theft. “If an idea is not yours, you cannot run far with it,” she said, narrating two personal experiences of academic plagiarism.

    On fears around AI, she stated:

    “If you approach AI with zero, it will return zero to you. But if you have a solid foundation, AI will help you excel.”

    She challenged the audience:

    “Are we going to dance to the beat that AI is drumming, or remain silent spectators?”

    All speakers agreed that the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria depends on digital literacy, innovation ecosystems, ethical practices, and strong university–industry partnerships.

    Arulogun closed her speech with a powerful metaphor, “The future is not ahead of us; it is here—only unevenly distributed. Digital knowledge is the water of today. Let us drink deeply.”

    The conference ended with renewed calls for Nigerian students to embrace innovation, think boldly, and take their place in the global digital economy.