The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Nigerians commend Tinubu’s democracy day speech

    Nigerians commend Tinubu’s democracy day speech

    Nigerians have applauded President Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech. 

    The Nation reports Tinubu on Monday addressed Nigerians in commemoration of 2023 Democracy Day with promises to respect rule of law.

    He also hailed the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola who he described as “symbol of democracy”.

    Tinubu, who acknowledged the hardship being faced by Nigerians in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal, said his administration will “reward” their sacrifices with “massive investment” in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve their quality of life.

    Read Also: Five takeaways from Tinubu’s Democracy Day Speech

    The President, who said he identified with the pain of Nigerians, argued that the temporal discomfort was necessary to save the country from going under.

    Reacting, many Nigerians hailed President Tinubu for his reassuring words in the speech. 

    Some others prayed for the success of his administration.

    A Twitter user, Ibrahim Kazeem said: “See speech now. Flowing without blocking or incoherent words. God bless the president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” 

     Dr. Dipo Awojide prayed: “May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu succeed. 

    “May we enjoy the benefits of a progressive, prosperous and peaceful nation after working for it. All these and many more I ask in the name of God almighty”

    Bam Ajulo posited: “Very commendable speech by President Tinubu. However, Must concede that the President was eloquent, displayed fluidity of thought, and had command of the issues. I cannot fault the President’s first two weeks in office.”

    David Offor said: “Just a reassuring speech by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu!! Proud that I supported this man.” 

    @itsoladeni said: “The June 12th speech by Tinubu is so comprehensive and communicating even to a layman, it was not just a script, it is saying something. Akanbi, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is renewing my hope indeed.”

  • Technological transformation: A comprehensive roadmap for President Tinubu

    Technological transformation: A comprehensive roadmap for President Tinubu

    • By. Samuel Ajiboyede

    In today’s rapidly evolving world, technological innovation has become a driving force behind economic growth and global competitiveness. Nigeria, with its immense talent and potential, is well-positioned to emerge as a hub of technological development. To harness this potential and accelerate Nigeria’s technological transformation, a holistic and actionable approach is needed.

    In this three (3) part article, award winning serial entrepreneur, member of Forbes Circle and founder of Ziod, Rowvar, Fleetpartners, Zido and many other successful technologically driven businesses, outlines a comprehensive roadmap for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration  with insightful and informative steps to create a thriving tech ecosystem, foster startups, drive economic growth, and enact impactful policies.

    Part 1: Creating an Enabling Environment for Startups 

    Streamlining Regulatory Processes

    To encourage the growth of startups, it is crucial to simplify and modernize regulatory processes. Reducing bureaucratic hurdles for startups to establish and operate businesses will create a favorable business environment. Implementing user-friendly digital platforms for business registration, licensing, and tax filings can significantly improve the ease of doing business.

    Access to Finance 

    Startups often face challenges in accessing capital, especially at the early stages. To address this, it is essential for President Tinubu’s administration to establish dedicated funds, grants, and venture capital initiatives that specifically target startups. Encouraging collaboration between financial institutions and angel investors can create a robust investment ecosystem for startups, providing them with the necessary funding and resources to scale their operations.

    Read Also: JUST IN: I will repay subsidy pains with dividends of democracy-Tinubu

    Supportive Policies 

    Developing policies that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship is vital for nurturing the startup ecosystem. This includes providing tax incentives for startups, creating intellectual property protection frameworks, and implementing business-friendly regulations. Governments can also introduce public procurement policies that prioritize working with local startups, thus providing them with valuable opportunities and boosting their growth.

    Infrastructure Development 

    Investing in robust digital infrastructure is crucial for supporting startups. Ensuring reliable power supply, high-speed internet connectivity, and technology parks equipped with modern facilities will attract startups and provide them with the necessary resources. Collaborating with private sector entities and international organizations can help leverage expertise and funding for infrastructure development.

    Part 2: Building Strong Collaborative Networks 

    Public-Private Partnership 

    Fostering collaborations between the government, private sector, academia, and international organizations is key to creating synergies and leveraging resources. Establishing platforms for regular dialogue, such as public-private partnership committees or advisory boards, can facilitate effective collaboration and help align policies with the needs of the tech ecosystem.

    Innovation Hubs and Incubators 

    The establishment and expansion of innovation hubs and incubators across the country are vital for supporting startups. These hubs provide a nurturing environment where startups can access mentorship, resources, and a supportive ecosystem. Collaboration with universities, research institutions, and industry experts can enhance the quality of support provided to startups.

    Networking and Knowledge Sharing 

    Organizing industry events, conferences, and workshops is essential for facilitating networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among startups, industry experts, and policymakers. These events can serve as platforms for showcasing innovative ideas, fostering partnerships, and connecting startups with potential investors and customers. Creating online platforms for virtual networking and knowledge sharing can further extend these opportunities.

    International Collaboration 

    Forging partnerships with global tech hubs, universities, and research institutions is crucial for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem to thrive. Collaborative initiatives can include knowledge transfer programs, talent exchange programs, joint research and development projects, and foreign investment facilitation. Building relationships with established global tech players can provide startups with access to international markets and expertise.

    Reformed Education System 

    Revamping the education curriculum to prioritize digital skills and entrepreneurship is essential for preparing students for the demands of the tech-driven economy. Introducing coding, data analytics, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship courses at various educational levels will equip the workforce with the necessary skills and mindset for innovation and entrepreneurship. Collaborating with educational institutions and industry experts can help develop relevant and up-to-date curriculum content.

    Skill Development Programs 

    Implementing training initiatives, boot camps, and vocational programs focused on technology can enhance the digital skills of the existing workforce. These programs can provide hands-on training in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and digital literacy. Public-private partnerships can facilitate the execution and scaling of these programs.

    University-Industry Collaboration 

    Strengthening ties between universities and industries is crucial to ensure curriculum relevance, foster research and development, and promote industry internships. Encouraging joint research projects, industry mentorship programs, and internships can bridge the gap between academia and the industry, allowing students to gain practical experience and industry exposure.

    Part 3: Policy and Regulatory Framework

    National Technology Policy 

    Developing a comprehensive technology policy is essential to provide a clear direction for the tech ecosystem. This policy should encompass areas such as data protection, cybersecurity, e-commerce regulations, and digital governance. It should be developed through a consultative process involving stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness.

    Open Data Initiative 

    Implementing an open data policy can unlock opportunities for innovation and research. By making non-sensitive public sector data accessible to the public, entrepreneurs and researchers can leverage it to develop data-driven solutions, drive evidence-based policymaking, and foster transparency. Clear guidelines for data privacy, security, and responsible use should accompany the open data initiative.

    Support for Research and Development 

    Allocating resources to support research and development (R&D) in emerging technologies is crucial for fostering innovation and competitiveness. Establishing funding mechanisms, such as grants and tax incentives, for R&D activities can incentivize startups, universities, and research institutions to conduct groundbreaking research and develop innovative solutions. Collaboration between academia, startups, and established companies can further enhance the impact of R&D efforts.

    Entrepreneurship Support Programs 

    Creating programs to assist entrepreneurs with business registration, mentorship, and access to market opportunities can significantly contribute to the growth of startups. Incubation programs, seed funding initiatives, and mentorship networks can provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary support and guidance to navigate the challenges of starting and scaling a business. Engaging successful entrepreneurs and industry experts as mentors can bring invaluable expertise and networks to the ecosystem.

    Conclusion:

    By adopting the steps outlined in this comprehensive roadmap, President Tinubu’s administration can unlock Nigeria’s potential as a global tech powerhouse. Creating an enabling environment for startups, building strong collaborative networks, promoting digital skills and education, and implementing impactful policies and regulatory frameworks are the building blocks for Nigeria’s technological transformation. The collective efforts of the government, private sector, academia, and financial institutions are paramount to driving this agenda forward and creating an inclusive, innovative, and prosperous future for the nation. Together, let us pave the way for Nigeria to become a global leader in technology, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.

  • Five takeaways from Tinubu’s Democracy Day Speech

    Five takeaways from Tinubu’s Democracy Day Speech

    President Bola Tinubu, Monday morning, addressed Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day celebration, highlighting its significance to the sociopolitical development of the country.

    The President’s 25-paragraphe speech, aired from 7am on major national television and radio stations, spoke to a couple of national issues and realities. Here are five takeaways from the speech:

    1. The President said the democracy, which Nigeria enjoys, was purchased at a great cost, involving some, including the icon of the June 12, 1993 struggle, Bashorun Moshood Abiola, paying the ultimate price with their lives, so it must not be taken for granted.

    Read Also: Full text of President Tinubu’s democracy day speech

    2. The conduct of the 2023 general elections and the fact it was so keenly contested is a positive evidence that democracy is very much alive and well in Nigeria and bears the significance of the essence of popular democracy and all it stands for; that nothing is constant and that roles can be reversed.

    3. He pointed out the abuse of the judicial system to truncate democracy and all it stands for will no longer be tolerated in Nigeria, noting that the reform of the legal system in the country has begun with the recent assent to the constitutional amendment, harmonizing retirement age for judicial officers.

    4. Democracy, according to him, as it was expressed by MKO Abiola’s campaign manifesto 30 years ago, is meant to be a tool to fight poverty and give the masses a chance to a decent life and not just the freedom of choice to get people into offices.  

    5. Tinubu explained the reason for removing fuel subsidy, which he described as a decision that must be collectively taken by all Nigerians, in a bid to save the country from eventual collapse, even as he assured that the sacrifice will not be in vain, but repaid with infrastructure development.

  • Female Airforce officer ‘commits’ suicide in Lagos

    Female Airforce officer ‘commits’ suicide in Lagos

    A female Master Warrant Officer (MWO) attached to the Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Lagos has allegedly committed suicide in the barrack.

    The personnel identified as George, was said to have been found dead inside her block T5, Flat 8  Sam Ethnam Base, Ikeja, apartment and later evacuated by medical personnel from the NAF hospital.

    Read Also: 100 widows get relief items from Nigerian Airforce

    Spokesman for the NAF, Commodore Ayodele Famuyiwa confirmed the incident to The Nation, adding that a committee had been set up to investigate.

    The MWO, it was gathered, had a peculiar situation and was said to have hung herself at about 2pm on Saturday.

  • Democracy Day: Tinubu will deliver dividends of democracy, says Gbajabiamila

    Democracy Day: Tinubu will deliver dividends of democracy, says Gbajabiamila

    Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will deliver the dividends of democracy that Nigerians have been yearning for.

    In a message to mark this year’s Democracy Day, Gbajabiamila said it is worth celebrating because it is a unique milestone in the nation’s democratic journey with the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a thoroughbred democrat, who is noted for his tenacious defence of democracy.

    The message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi, on Sunday.

    Read Also: ‘How Gbajabiamila saved ASUU from proscription’

    The Speaker said that his joy stems from the fact that Nigerians are set to appreciate the true meaning of democracy because the President is a product of democracy.

    He described President Tinubu as someone who understands and appreciates the tenets of democracy and the value it brings to the table of the populace.

    According to him, as a true democrat who was involved in the struggle for the return of democracy to the country and who has finally assumed the position of authority, President Tinubu will not shy away from bringing to bear the dividends of democracy Nigerians have been yearning for. 

    Gbajabiamila also expressed appreciation to Nigerians as they continue to support the country’s return to democracy.

    While he urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of the socio-economic and political challenges facing the country, Gbajabiamila called for prayers for the country’s leaders for God’s guidance and wisdom to overcome the many challenges confronting the country.

  • Kwara Gov, Ginika, Jack-Rich, 13 others for SGF honouring committee

    Kwara Gov, Ginika, Jack-Rich, 13 others for SGF honouring committee

    The Central Planning Committee of the reception dinner of the newly appointed Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume has been announced.

    Friends of Akume assembled high profiled personalities to champion the organisation of the reception dinner tagged “Celebration of an Icon.”

    Read Also: EFCC arrests 20 Yahoo boys in Kwara

    Members of the Central planning Committee include his Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who is chairman of the Steering Committee; Chief Kanayo Okoye the Co-Chairman Amb. Ginika Tor-Ijeomah as Secretary, Tien Jack-Rich as head of Finance; Dr. Bello Maigari, Co-Chairman Finance; Barr. Olusegun Adekunle, Head of Protocol; Omonbowale Idimogu, Head of Media & Publicity; Dr. Yusuf Maina-Bukar, Head of Welfare and Alh. Adamu Useni ZBCC ,Co-Head of Welfare. Sen. Anthony Manzo, Head of Venue Committee, Hon. Maureen Agbo, Secretary of Venue Committee, Hon. Umar Tahir, Head of Accommodation and Dr. Fatima Mohammed Goni, Co-Head Accommodation Committee, Mr. Christopher Tarka , Head of Security Committee, Dr. Bukola Bello Jaiyesimi, Head of Medical Team , Mairo Al-Makura, Head of documentation Committee and Hon Mrs. Mbanumun D.Mwuese, Financial Secretary.

    Akume, born 27 December 1953, is a technocrat and politician appointed by President Bola Tinubu as 21st Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

    The reception slated for June 17 at Transcoro Hilton Hotel Abuja, is designed to celebrate his iconic attributes by his friends.

  • Ex-Osun commissioner backs Ekiti chef, donates N100,000

    Ex-Osun commissioner backs Ekiti chef, donates N100,000

    The Immediate past Commissioner for Works in Osun, Engr.Remi Omowaiye, has donated N100,000 to support Ekiti-born Chef, Miss Damilola Adeparusi in her bid to set a new record for longest cooking marathon. 

    Adeparusi is targeting 120 hours to break the yet-to-be-certified record by the current holder, Hilda Bassey who reached record 100 hours to surpassed India’s Lata Tondon who set the record for the longest cooking marathon with 87 hours 45mins in 2019.

    Read Also: Ekiti chef hits 60-hour cooking mark, trails Hilda Baci’s 100-hour record

    Omowaiye, in a statement, on Sunday called on Nigerians to support Adeparusi in her quest to set a new record rather than discouraging her with criticism.

    The ex- commissioner who hailed the Ekiti born chef for attempting to achieve such great feat, said “record are meant to be broken”.

    The statement reads:”For me, Damilola did not commit any crime by attempting to break Hilda’s record , the sky is wide enough to accommodate different types of birds, let her spread her wings and fly.

    “I think she is also trying to make name for herself too, healthy competition is not bad .Even if the lady doesn’t break the record ,at least, we’ve known her now like we knew Hilda and I think Hilda should be happy to have been able to motivate someone to try to do the unthinkable.

    “In view of this, I throw my weight behind the Ekiti-born chef,  Adeparusi with a cash support of N100,000 in her quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon”.

    Adeparusi fondly called Chef Dammy by her supporters is a 300-level Mass Communication undergraduate at the Federal University of Oye Ekiti.

    She is representing a church, Spirit Word Global Mission, in the cooking marathon in Ilupeju Ekiti, Oye Council Area of Ekiti State.

  • VIDEO: NDLEA seizes drugs hidden in native black soap

    VIDEO: NDLEA seizes drugs hidden in native black soap

    NDLEA seizes drugs hidden in native black soap

  • IGP vows to ensure professionalism in Police

    IGP vows to ensure professionalism in Police

    The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba, has reiterated his commitment to entrenching professionalism in the Police.

    IGP said this will be carried out through sustainable promotion of specialisation and fixing of trained experts to take charge of NPF’s specialized sections such as the Legal Section, Forensic Unit, the Cybercrime Unit, Public Relations Department, Gender Unit, Medical Services, etc. 

    This, he maintained, is paramount to ensuring that square pegs are fitted into square holes for efficiency and effective discharge of policing duties to the public.

    Read Also: Tinubu will conquer security challenges – —Ex-IGP Okiro

    According to a statement on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Baba said: “The IGP made reference to some laudable achievements of the NPF under his administration including the excising and massive expansion of the Cybercrime Unit, the massive construction of specialist hospitals and acquisition of medical facilities for the Medical Unit, the digitalization of the Force Legal Section, the digitalization of personnel records under the Force Secretary office, enhanced aerial and marine operations, improved Police Animal Section, digitalized Central Motor Registry, establishment of the NPF Construction company assisting in Construction and renovation of barracks and facilities, amongst others. 

    “The Inspector-General of Police has  however assured that the process, which has been institutionalized, will be continuous and deliberate to achieve a total overhaul of old systems and patterns in the Police to give way for a full digitalization in no distant time. He stressed that this would greatly improve investigations and intelligence gathering activities of the Police for a more robust and results oriented interaction with the public”.

  • Chef Hilda Baci breaks silence on Dami’s cookathon attempt

    Chef Hilda Baci breaks silence on Dami’s cookathon attempt

    Chef Hilda, who recently attempted the longest cookathon by an individual in Lagos has broken her silence on the ongoing attempt to surpass her feat by Ekiti born chef, Damilola Adeparusi.

    She backed Dami’s efforts at breaking her Guinness World Record, hailing her for having the courage to aim at it. 

    She lauded and applauded the boldness and zeal of the young aspiring World Record breaker.

    Read Also: Ekiti chef hits 60-hour cooking mark, trails Hilda Baci’s 100-hour record

    She tweeted: “The beauty of dream is that they are unique to each individual. Dami, your boldness to take on a cooking challenge shows that passion knows no limits.

    “Embrace the journey, learn from every experience and inspire others with your unwavering spirit”.