The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • AKK pipeline project employed 2,599 Nigerians, says Chinese contractor

    AKK pipeline project employed 2,599 Nigerians, says Chinese contractor

    …says project will be delivered in 2025

    The Chinese contractor handling segment 2 of the Ajaokuta, Kaduna Kano (AKK) Gas pipeline project, Brentex CPP, said it has employed 2,599 Nigerians in various fields across the project corridor to enable it deliver the project by first quarter of 2025.

    Chairman of the group, Howard Wang disclosed this during a tour of the project site in Kaduna at the weekend. 
    He said that 1,925 skilled and semi-skilled Nigerian workers were directly employed in the project, while it recruited, trained, certified and engaged 674 Nigerians (Skilled and Semi-skilled) in 29 different fields of Oil and Gas Pipe Line construction, out of which 339 are from the local communities.
    Three cabinet ministers including the Ministers of Finance, Wale Edun; Information and National Orientation,  Mohammed Idris Malagi and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo had inspected the River Kaduna crossing milestone of the project alongside the Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari.
    Wang, while noting that it has successfully engaged more than 61 local sub-contractors at all levels of the project, assured of the company’s readiness to complete the project by the first quarter of 2025.

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    He noted that despite the challenges of insecurity, COVID-19 and others, the company would succeed in delivering the construction segment of the project.
    He said: “The achievements so far recorded include the completion of the 98.54 percent of the linear construction works within the three years of active construction; the completion of 100 percent HDD crossing for Shika River in Kaduna State, and Hadejia River in Kano State and we have achieved more than 51 percent for Kaduna HDD River crossing in Kaduna.
    “We have successfully engaged more 61 local sub- contractors at all levels of the project and we have worked in absolute harmony with more than 240 local communities along our right of way.
    “We have recorded a total of 11.2 million man hour with only one single Lost Time Incident (LTI) which occurred in March 2024.”
    He thanked the Nigerian government and NNPCL for their trust in awarding Brentex CPP consortium the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract for 40”× 318.6km AKK Gas Pipeline project Segment 2 starting from Sarkin Pawa in Niger State is Kano.
    “We must mention that, BCL has enjoyed tremendous support from the Federal Government of Nigeria through the able leadership of NNPC Ltd, without this support we may have had no magic to perform. We also celebrate ourselves, BCL, a consortium of Chinese Government owned company and a Nigerian local private company that successfully worked together to bring the project to the success it is today.
    “The consortium formed by Brentex and CPP is more than just a combination of names; it embodies the comprehensive cooperation and contributions of Nigerian and Chinese companies and employees, Obviously, there are challenges ranging from Weather, to Covid Pandemic, to Insecurity and to Global Price Escalations. I shall be right to say that, this is one project that truly suffered global challenge,” he added. 

  • Why generational shift presents challenges, opportunities in workforce retention, by AXA Mansard

    Why generational shift presents challenges, opportunities in workforce retention, by AXA Mansard

    Omowunmi Adewusi, the General Counsel and Human Resources Director at AXA Mansard, highlighted that the ongoing generational shift—with Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all coexisting in organizations—creates both opportunities and challenges for employee retention efforts. 

    She made these remarks during her keynote address at the 2024 Human Resource Professionals Workshop, hosted by the Career Office of Pan-Atlantic University. 

    The event’s theme was “Employee Retention Strategies: Building a Resilient Workforce with Technology and Trends.”

    She noted that traditional work models, characterized by fixed hours, on-site presence, and manual labour, no longer resonate with the modern workforce.

    She explained that technological advancements had fuelled the demand for remote work capabilities, digital tools, and collaboration platforms.

    “So, the real challenge for HR practice today is how to bridge the gap between the divide and foster a resilient workforce that can thrive in today’s dynamic business and economic environment,” she said. 

    Adewusi added: “Technology is no longer a nice-to-have. Digital tools, remote work capabilities, and collaboration platforms are essential for attracting and retaining top talents”. 

    Similarly, leveraging data analytics to forecast potential employee turnover and pinpoint those at risk of leaving can be invaluable.

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    She noted that taking proactive measures to address their concerns can significantly impact retention. 

    She encouraged HR professionals and organisations to invest in self-service HR portals, mobile apps for easy access to information, and cloud-based platforms that encourage seamless communication and collaboration.

     Adewusi emphasised that continuous learning is a key skill for success, explaining that the business environment is constantly evolving.

    She advised organisations to pay Increased attention to employee development through on-demand learning platforms, noting that commitment to learning always fosters a culture of growth and keeps the workforce engaged in current and future market evolution. 

    She encouraged HR professionals to Invest in work-life integration, employee wellness initiatives, and always remember to add a human touch to HR policies and practices. 

    Adelusi remarked: “Retention is about more than just perks. Recognition programs, opportunities for career progression, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion are crucial for building long-term commitment.” 

    She noted that a robust and resilient workforce forms the foundation for any thriving organisation.

     Using the opportunities and confronting the challenges presented by today’s dynamic market conditions to retain top talent is the ultimate litmus test for determining HR’s invaluable contribution to business growth and long-term sustainability. 

  • Katsina bags best state health insurance agency award 2024

    Katsina bags best state health insurance agency award 2024

    The Katsina State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KTSCHMA) has won the esteemed “Best State Health Insurance Agency of the Year 2024” award at the National Healthcare Excellence Awards event held in Lagos.

    In a press statement released by the chief press secretary to the governor and made available to newsmen in Katsina yesterday, the victory was highlighted as Katsina state’s second consecutive win, following their previous triumph in 2022.

    The statement said: ‘’Katsina State was nominated alongside other notable states including Lagos, Adamawa, Kano, and Anambra’’.

    ‘’Katsina State’s emergence as the winner is a testament to the uninterrupted commitment of the Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON led administration to the health and well-being of citizens.

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    ‘’This recognition is a direct result of the visionary leadership and strategic investments in healthcare by Governor Radda’’. The Nation recalled that Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, KTSCHMA, had implemented innovative approaches, foster strategic partnerships and worked tirelessly to improve healthcare outcomes, access, and affordability for the good people of the Katsina

    Reacting to the award, Governor Radda extends his heartfelt appreciation to the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Bishir Gambo Saulawa PhD, the Chairman of the KTSCHMA Governing Board, the Director General and his Management Team, and indeed all stakeholders who have contributed to this remarkable achievement.

    He said: “This award reaffirms our administration’s dedication to excellence in healthcare service delivery. We remain committed to building on this success and further enhancing the quality of healthcare available to every resident of Katsina State. 

    “As we celebrate this achievement, we rededicate ourselves to the continuous improvement of our healthcare system, ensuring that Katsina State remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation and service delivery in Nigeria.”

  • Tinubu to flag off UNDP, northwest security talk shop Monday

    Tinubu to flag off UNDP, northwest security talk shop Monday

    President Bola Tinubu is expected to arrive katsina on Monday, June 24, to flag off a two-day security talk shop between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the North West governor’s forum

     The president is also expected to deliver a keynote address at the Northwest Peace & Security summit in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) tagged’’ Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods in North West, Nigeria’’.

    The UNDP northwest governors’ security talk shop is expected to bring together stakeholders as well as security expert including governors from across the region and key partners on security matters to proffer solution to terrorist attacks and address persistent security challenges facing the region

    Read Also: Aisha Buhari welcomes grand-child as Tinubu’s wife

    A press statement by the chief press secretary to the Katsina state governor, Mohammed Kaula, on the itinerary of Mr President also stated that he will commission the ultramodern 16-bed dialysis centre, a healthcare project initiated by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda at General Amadi Rimi Specialist Hospital, Batagarawa.

    The august visitor is also expected to perform the ground breaking ceremony of the construction of the new Katsina Eastern Bypass that spans from Dutsinma Road to Kano Road, passing through Daura Road, and ultimately ending at Yandaki Village in Kaita Local Government.

    The Nation recalled that this is the first time the President will be visiting Katsina state since his electoral victory at the 2023 general elections, where he defeated Atiku Abubakar of PDP and Peter Obi of Labor Party. 

  • NDLEA raids drug-filled shrine guarded by snake in Edo, arrests two

    NDLEA raids drug-filled shrine guarded by snake in Edo, arrests two

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has raided a shrine used to store illicit drugs in Igor community, Benin City, Edo state, which was guarded by a giant black snake.

    Spokesman of the Agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday, June 23, said its operatives detected a specially constructed large hole storage in a wall covered with wallpapers and fetish objects, where the drugs were hidden.

    He said different quantities of illicit substances such as methamphetamine, Loud, Colorado and Arizona, all strong strains of cannabis with a total weight of 8.743 kilograms, were pulled out from the deep hole dug in the wall of the shrine building.

    According to the statement two ladies: Sonia Chinonso Ezumezu and Risikatu Tijani were arrested during the intelligence-led operation on Tuesday 18th June 2024 after the big black snake guarding the shrine was demobilized.

    Read Also: NDLEA laments women’s involvement in illicit drug 

    Babafemi said in the same vein, two suspects: Obi Ferguson,45, and Ernest Abanum, 46, were arrested on Saturday 22nd June when NDLEA operatives raided the Usen forest in Ovia South West LGA, Edo state where 209kg cannabis and a motorcycle were recovered.

    He also said NDLEA officers in Lagos have intercepted a carefully packaged consignment of 8.2 kilograms of methamphetamine at a motor park in Mazamaza, Ojo area of the state. 

    The highly addictive illicit substance, also called ice or crystal meth was packed in imported Dunkin’ turtle love chocolate wraps and then concealed in the casing of three loud speakers, he said.

    The statement revealed that a 39-year-old suspect,  Michael Odiomume, who was sending the consignment to Owerri, Imo state was promptly arrested on Wednesday 19th June at the park.

    The statement reads: “In Abuja, operatives on Tuesday 18th June intercepted a white Nissan Frontier pick up vehicle with amber lights and fake registration number of a security agency at Kiyi village in Kuje area of the FCT. The vehicle was loaded with 454 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, weighing 340.8kg procured at Uzeba, Edo state. A 76-year-old grandfather, Mr. Francis Omofa, linked to the consignment was arrested. He claimed to have been in the illicit drug business for 10 years.

    “With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture for students and teachers of St. Peters College, Nibo, Anambra;  students and staff of Apostolic Grammar School, Ilesa, Osun state;  students and teachers of Immanuel Baptist High School, Oyo town, Oyo state;  students and staff of Federal Government Science and Technical College, Otukpa, Benue state, as well as WADA advocacy lecture for Muslim faithful during their juma’at prayer in Umuahia, Abia state and a WADA advocacy visit to the First Lady of Enugu state, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah by the state Command of NDLEA.

    “While commending the officers and men of Edo, Lagos, and FCT Commands, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted the balance in their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts as well as those of their compatriots across the country. 

    “He charged them to maintain the ongoing offensive action against drug cartels as they continue to intensify their war against drug abuse, WADA, social advocacy campaign.”

  • 100 youths graduate from ITF skills acquisition programme in kastina

    100 youths graduate from ITF skills acquisition programme in kastina

    No fewer than 100 youths drawn from different parts of Katsina state have graduated from different skills acquisition under the National Economic Recovery Growth Programme in collaboration with the Industrial training fund (ITF). 

    The Nation recalled that the National Economic Recovery and Growth Programme was introduced by the Industrial Training Fund aimed at promoting economic growth and development among Nigerian youths.

    The programme focuses on technical and vocational education and training entrepreneurship and enterprise development as well as apprenticeship in Nigeria

    Meanwhile the Rector, Federal Polytechnic Daura, Katsina state, Professor Aliyu Mamman, has charged Katsina Youths to embrace skills acquisition and self-empowerment programs that will enhance their development

    Mamman, who was the guest of honor at the graduation ceremony of 100 trainees of the Katsina branch of the industrial Training Fund, ITF, under the National Economic Recovery Program, ITF- NERGP, supported by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic planning, also charged the Youths on making the right choices of profession

    Investigation by The Nation revealed that over 4000 trainees from different trade areas nationwide were churned out on various skill acquisition and developments on Nigeria’s economy. 

    The Rector further called on Governments at different levels to encourage skill acquisitions amongst the youths especially in the higher institutions

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    Mamman whose paper presentation at the occasion was titled: ’The impact of Skill Acquisition, in the development of Nigeria’s Economy’’, further urged the exposure of the youths to skill acquisition to encourage economic growth and national development

    He said: “Enhanced skill acquisition and training encourages employment generation, eliminate youth unemployment, and ensure increased production of goods and services’’

    ‘’Over dependence on imports rather than promoting export of skills and services, remains the growing challenges to skill acquisition as well as reduces economic growth and development’’

    He also called on the graduates to shun bad attitudinal behaviours and mind-sets towards skill acquisition by exhibiting and acquiring new ones and growing from smaller to larger scales

    The trainees were later awarded certificates and start up packs and as well as other inducements to enable them trade on their newly acquired skills

  • Governor Mutfwang engages International finance corporation

    Governor Mutfwang engages International finance corporation

    …seeks investments in Agriculture, tourism, mining in Plateau

    Plateau state governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has hosted representatives from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group in a bid to attract investments aimed at revitalizing the state’s industrial sector. 

    The meeting was led by Dan Croft, Regional Industry Manager for Infrastructure in Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa.

    Mutfwang, in a statement by his spokesman, Gyang Bere, emphasised the need for partnerships to revive several legacy projects that have been abandoned in the state in order to put them to productive use for the benefit of people of the state. 

    He called for investments in the power sector, agricultural value chain, storage, irrigation systems, the revitalization of Jos Wildlife Park to boost tourism and generate revenue, and the reconstruction of Jos Abattoir for meat processing and export.

    Read Also: Kaduna Assembly report tissue of lies, say former Commissioners

    Highlighting the state’s favourable investment climate, Governor Mutfwang explained that the clement weather of the state, the hospitable nature of the people, and the institutional framework his administration has put in place are some of factors that would support massive investments in the state.

     He assured potential investors of a secure and conducive environment for their ventures.

    The regional industry manager, Dan Croft expressed the International Financial Corporation’s interest in investing in Plateau state, noting that they would implement a proven investment model to ensure the state receives optimal and appropriate investments. 

    Both parties agreed to form a technical team to develop a framework and work out the modalities for the smooth commencement of investments in the state.

  • I’ll continue to act even in my 90s -Kanayo Kanayo

    I’ll continue to act even in my 90s -Kanayo Kanayo

    Veteran actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo, has expressed his desire to continue acting even when he turns 90, voicing concerns about the industry’s decline due to untalented individuals, particularly women eager to act.

    He emphasised that acting is an innate talent, not something that can be merely learned in Nollywood.

    He also raised alarm over the increasing prevalence of drug abuse and homos3xuality in the industry, calling for a purge to restore professionalism.

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    In an interview with Nedu, Kanayo said: “Many girls are desperate to act. You don’t come to Nollywood to learn how to act. Acting is built. If it’s not in you, go and sell crayfish.

    “Let us run some people out of the [movie] industry. I want a situation where at 70, 75, 80, 90, I will still be acting.”

    With a career spanning over 40 years, Kanayo has appeared in over 200 movies, starting with “Living in Bondage” in 1992.

  • JUST IN: Armed robbers invade estate in Abuja, kill retired Brigadier General

    JUST IN: Armed robbers invade estate in Abuja, kill retired Brigadier General

    Armed robbers invaded the Sunshine Homes estate in Abuja‘s Lokogoma district, resulting in the tragic death of retired Army Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere.

    According to the police, the assailants targeted the upscale estate under the cover of darkness.

    In a statement, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the robbers encountered Brigadier General Udokwere, who reportedly resisted them.

    During the confrontation, he sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.

    Adeh said: “The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Benneth Igweh, has expressed profound sorrow over the loss and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

    “This is a deeply regrettable and tragic event. We assure the family and the public that we will leave no stone unturned in our investigation. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will be apprehended and brought to justice.”

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    The police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    She highlighted the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the case.

    Adeh said: “Our commitment is to ensure swift justice, urging anyone with information to come forward.

    “This attack has raised concerns about the security situation in Abuja, particularly in residential areas previously considered safe.

    “The audacity of the robbers has left many residents in fear, prompting calls for enhanced security measures. The police authority has also increased the number of police officers on the road to tackle the menace.”

  • OPEYORI:  My goal is to inspire new generation of badminton players

    OPEYORI:  My goal is to inspire new generation of badminton players

    Anuoluwapo Juwon Opeyori, 26, is a Nigerian badminton player who started playing badminton with his brother in 2005. He was later selected to join the Nigerian senior national team in 2017. Over the years, he has continued to dominate Africa in the men’s singles on the court of badminton, winning four African Championship titles and two African Games titles. Opeyori is breaking into the Paris Olympics men’s singles after playing in the doubles event in 2020, writes OLAITAN GANIU.

    Even though Opeyori’s name is already etched in the history books of Nigerian badminton as the nation’s undisputed champion and Africa’s number one player, he is set to capture the hearts of millions around the world after securing a coveted spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He has qualified to play in the coveted singles event of the Olympics.  

    According to the Olympian, his goals go far beyond simply participating in the global tournament; his dream is to become the first African badminton player to win a match at the Olympics.

    “I understand that the reward for hard work is more work,” Opeyori said with confidence.

    He acknowledges the formidable competition he’ll face as the tournament will host continental champions with diverse skillsets. Yet, for Opeyori, this challenge presents a golden opportunity for growth.

    “Competing against such skilled opponents is a chance for me to learn and grow as an athlete. In badminton, anyone can be eliminated at any stage of the game. Every match you play is like a pain in the neck. It’s not your regular low-level tournament. You have to be at your best when you are playing because everybody in that tournament is like the elite of the elite before they could qualify. That is why it takes us like 12 months to qualify, and within those months, you would have competed in a lot of tournaments. So, you have to be strong, sharp, and very agile to compete in the Olympics.

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    Opeyori added that he is setting his sights on Paris. To achieve this historic feat, he’s intensified his training regime, meticulously blending the fundamentals learned on local courts with advanced techniques acquired abroad. This dedication extends beyond the physical.

    “I’m looking forward to putting all my resources together for the classic tournament. Qualifying is something that I wanted. After the final selections, I’m going to make sure that I gather every resource needed — energy, funds, sponsorships — so that I can train in maybe China, Malaysia, or anywhere they play badminton,” he boasted.

    HE WILL MAKE NIGERIA PROUD

    His coach and brother, Funsho Opeyori, said he has confidence that the talented player will put Nigeria on the world map at the forthcoming Olympic Games in Paris, France.

    The coach described the lad as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across Africa to pursue their dreams and push beyond their limits, saying that “his dedication to the sport and unwavering commitment to excellence are a testament to his willpower and mental strength.

    “He is very competitive. As he prepares to compete against the world’s best badminton players in Paris, one thing is certain: he will carry the hopes and dreams of a nation on his shoulders. With his talent, dedication, and unwavering spirit, Opeyori has the potential not only to make Nigeria proud but also to inspire a new generation of badminton enthusiasts across Africa.”

    Opeyori’s story is an embodiment of the power of dreams and dedication. From his local courts to the global stage, he carries the hopes of a nation on his shoulders. With his talent, relentless spirit, and focus on making history, he has the potential to not only inspire a new generation of badminton enthusiasts but also etch his name forever in the Olympic record books.

    For an independent athlete, financial constraints were a constant hurdle, but the raw talent and focus of Opeyori continued to fuel his passion.

    “I’m hoping more Nigerians, corporate organizations, and the government can support what I do, as I promise to make everybody proud. They will be happy that they supported me to grow and become a top brand in the future,” he said.

    SHOW OF LOVE AND SUPPORT

    Though the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has vowed to provide Opeyori with the necessary support to ensure peak performance, patrons of the badminton section at Ikoyi Club, where he trains alongside his brother, have also rallied behind him, determined to see him succeed.

    President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, expressed his deep appreciation for Opeyori over his qualification to the Olympic Games in Paris.

    According to the president, he has not only brought pride and joy to the hearts of Nigerians but has also earned them a well-deserved place of honour in the annals of Nigerian sports history.

    “History has been made in badminton as Anuoluwapo Opeyori has secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with the release made by the Badminton World Federation (BWF),” Orbih said.

    “I am excited and full of joy because Anuoluwapo Opeyori is the first Nigerian badminton player to feature in the men’s singles at the Olympic Games and also the first Nigerian to attend two Olympics back-to-back.

    “Three years ago, it was Dorcas Adesokan in the women’s singles and Opeyori with his partner Godwin Olofua in the men’s doubles that made it to the Olympic Games in Tokyo. Today, Opeyori will represent Nigeria in the men’s singles; the leadership of BFN and Nigeria are proud of him.”.

    MILESTONES UPON MILESTONES FOR OPEYORI

    Before the Olympic qualifying tournament, Opeyori continued to compete at the highest level and chase excellence in a sport he has come to define.

    Early this year, he grabbed his fifth African title and his third back-to-back men’ s singles title at the All Africa Senior Badminton Championship in Cairo to the delight of followers of the game. Prior to the feat, he had earlier won the 2019 All Africa Senior Championships Men’s Singles title in Port Harcourt, Nigeria; the 2019 African Games Men’s Singles title in Morocco; the 2022 All Africa Senior Championships Men’s Singles title in Uganda and the 2023 All Africa Senior Championships in South Africa.“I am on cloud nine right now as this is my first-ever semi-final in a Challenge, and I am extremely happy,” Opeyori rhapsodized about his performance at this year’s Uganda International Challenge 2024.

    “This will also be of great help to my ranking points as I am the only African player who has reached this level in this Uganda tournament. I hope that I can replicate such performance soon and I will now aim higher.”

    Opeyori won silver in the men’s doubles competition and gold in the men’s singles and mixed team competitions at the 2019 African Games in Rabat, Morocco. In addition to his five gold medals in the men’s singles at the African Championship, he also received a silver in the men’s singles at the continental competition in Cairo 2020 and a bronze in the men’s doubles at the Port Harcourt and Cairo 2020 editions, respectively.

     In addition, he has achieved success in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) International Challenge/ Series, having won six crowns and nine silver medals in total.

    “This year is very special for me as I have been crowned African Champion twice, and I believe that I am on the right track considering that we are nearing the Olympic Games,” he added.