The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Firm launches car rental platform

    Firm launches car rental platform

    Drivepadi, a leading car rental and peer-to-peer sharing platform, is excited to announce its official launch in Lagos. Designed to revolutionize the way people rent and share cars, Drivepadi aims to provide a seamless and convenient experience for both car owners and renters.

    With Drivepadi, users can easily list their cars for rent and connect with potential renters in their area. The platform offers a wide selection of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury sedans and SUVs, ensuring that renters can find the perfect car to suit their needs. Drivepadi’s advanced booking system and secure payment process provide peace of mind for both hosts and renters.

    “We are thrilled to launch Drivepadi and bring a new level of convenience and affordability to the car rental industry,” said Kings Ghedosa, CEO of Drivepadi Technologies. “Our platform is designed to empower car owners to monetize their idle vehicles while providing renters with a wide range of options to choose from. We believe this will revolutionize the way people think about car rentals. Also, with changing lifestyles and increasing costs, people are seeking convenient alternatives to traditional car ownership. Drivepadi provides that timely solution by offering a platform that allows individuals to rent out their vehicles or book a car when needed, promoting cost savings, sustainability, and convenience. Drivepadi is committed to making car sharing easy, safe, and convenient for everyone, and our mission is to create a platform where everyone can have access to affordable, secure, and convenient transportation in Nigeria’’.

    Read Also: Digital platform to simplify wholesale procurement

    Drivepadi’s launch comes at a time when the sharing economy is gaining significant momentum. With a focus on safety, reliability, and transparency, Drivepadi aims to establish itself as the go-to platform for car rentals in Lagos. The company is committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a seamless user experience for all its users.

    To celebrate the launch, Drivepadi is offering exclusive promotions and discounts to both hosts and renters. Users can sign up for free on the Drivepadi website www.drivepadi.com or download the Drivepadi mobile app on google playstore to start listing their cars or browsing available rentals.

    About Drivepadi:
    Drivepadi is a leading car rental and peer-to-peer sharing platform, connecting car owners with renters in a seamless and convenient way. With a wide range of vehicles available and advanced booking features, Drivepadi aims to revolutionize the car rental industry and provide a superior experience for both hosts and renters.

  • Student-centred approach to teaching vital, says don

    Student-centred approach to teaching vital, says don

    • • WICE holds annual conference

    Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics and Research, University of Lagos(UNILAG), Prof. Bola Oboh has urged teachers to develop student-centred approach to teaching because nowadays students have short attention span.

    Oboh was the keynote speaker at the 2023  Annual Conference of the National Association of Women in Colleges of Education (WICE) Federal College of Education Technical (FCET) Akoka chapter, which had as theme: “Role of teacher education and women participation in good governance”. The conference held on the college campus last week.

    She stated that teachers were crucial to sustainable development, poverty eradication and inclusiveness, hence, a  21st  century teacher must be well-equipped  with critical thinking skills, student-centred pedagogy and effective communication skills.

    “Teacher education is professional education of teachers towards attaining right skills and attitude to ensure high level of productivity and impacting the nation positively,” she said.

    She said teaching methods needed to change because students now have ChatGPT  to work for them.

    Oboh,who said teachers were facing many challenges,urged the new administration to focus on education at all levels.

    The DVC urged women  to begin to play active roles in unions in the university and ensure their voice is heard because data globally points to the under representation of women in all spheres of life.

    She said having more  women in decision-making was beneficial  because they are interested in their immediate environment.

    Oboh also charged leaders on good governance, adding that it was important to abide by the rule of law. She said good governance in higher institutions drive performance.

    Former Dean , School of Business Education,FCET, Dr  Janet Adeboye in her lecture stated that teacher education and women participation in good governance were  essential for the progress and development of any society.

     “By promoting critical thinking, tolerance, accountability skills, teacher education can create and inform and responsible citizens.  Correspondingly, by promoting gender equality, social justice, a different perspective, civic responsibility, and sustainable development, women participation in governance can create a just, equitable and sustainable society,” she said.

    Read Also: Wike inaugurates 250-bed PAMO Teaching Hospital

    She urged different groups like the Forum for African Women Educationalist in Nigeria (FAWEN), Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF), Africa Regional Democracy Fund (ARDF) to  seek advocacy visits to leaders and gatekeepers to change perceptions, attitudes and social norms that obstruct women’s political participation as was done by WICE  when they visited Oyo and Rivers states.

    Provost of the college and Patron of WICE, Dr Wahab Ademola Azeez  noted that women were well represented in the college. According to him,there was no proof that males were better than females.

    Chairman of the occasion, Provost of Corona College of Education, Lagos, Dr Olajumoke Mekiliuwa said women were crucial to the actualisation of the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), hence, teachers should continue to be role models and encourage girl-child education.

    Chairperson WICE FCET,  Akoka chapter, Dr Oluwakemi Aladenusi, said women participation in good governance could not be overemphasised. She said at times roles of women were not appreciated, but they contribute to good governance.

    Conference Chairperson, Dr Grace Alabi noted that women were vital to achieving good governance.She said the moving the college forward was a collective responsibility and not the Provost’s alone.

  • First non-dairy, vegan ice cream debuts

    First non-dairy, vegan ice cream debuts

    Just Food Limited has launched its non-dairy and vegan ice cream (Just Delight).

    The product will be catering to lactose-intolerant consumers.

     Just Delight is a delicious, creamy and satisfying plant-based ice cream that is excellent alternative to traditional dairy ice cream.

    A non-dairy and vegan product, Just Delight offers a truly delightful frozen treat that satisfies cravings without compromising dietary choices.

    The product presents exceptional lineup of flavours, including Vanilla, Strawberry, and Chocolate. Each scoop guarantees a sensation that leaves ice cream lovers craving more.

    General Manager of Sales & Production, Bode Folami, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Just Delight as Nigeria’s first non-dairy and vegan ice cream. We understand the challenges faced by lactose intolerant individuals and those following a vegan lifestyle when it comes to finding a delectable frozen treat…”

    Read Also: UN votes $20m to tackle food insecurity in Northeast

    Just Delight stands out as the perfect choice for lactose-intolerant individuals and vegans, who can relish the pleasure of ice cream without compromise. By eliminating dairy, Just Delight ensures lactose-intolerant consumers can enjoy a creamy, satisfying treat without discomfort or digestive issues. Additionally, vegans can indulge in plant-based ice cream that aligns with their ethical choices without sacrificing flavour or texture.

    Just Delight is packaged in eco-friendly materials, prioritising sustainability and environmental consciousness. The tamper-proof lid guarantees freshness and integrity, providing consumers with a delightful experience

    The product is available in two sizes: 500ml, and 850ml at major supermarkets and stores.

    Experience the irresistible flavours of Just Delight and discover a new world of frozen Delight for lactose-intolerant consumers and vegans.

  • ASUU strike, Tinubu and students

    ASUU strike, Tinubu and students

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)  has a history of going on strike to press for better working conditions, improved salaries and funding for universities. These strikes have been a recurrent issue in the  education  sector for many years. During  strike, ASUU members, who are  lecturers and researchers, suspend all academic activities, including lectures, examinations, and grading. The strikes typically last for weeks or even months, leading to  disruptions in the academic calendar and affecting students’ education.

    The reasons behind ASUU strikes are varied, but they often revolve around demands for increased government funding of universities, better infrastructure, improved welfare packages for staff, and the implementation of previous agreements between ASUU and the government.

    Read Also: ASUU: withheld salary will be released soon

    However, historically, the fate of  students during ASUU strikes remain a matter of concern. Students often experience prolonged disruptions to their academic calendar, resulting in delayed graduation, extended programme durations and  frustration. These strikes can have far-reaching implications for the quality of education and the future prospects of  students.

    In the light of this, during the  2022 strike  which kept students away from 

  • New digital platforms to promote African trades

    New digital platforms to promote African trades

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) secretariat have launched Africa Trade Gateway (ATG), a suite of five digital platforms that were designed as a single window to enable the bank provide critical services to support and promote African trades.

    ATG was launched by Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade Bank, Afreximbank on the sidelines of the 30th Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2023) in Accra, Ghana.

    Awani said that Afreximbank’s digital evolution was part of its deliberate strategic response to address Africa’s key challenges to accelerate the pace of development and foster economic prosperity for Africans using and applying digital technologies and business models.

    “Each one of our digital interventions is designed to address clearly identified challenges and barriers for those seeking to engage in African trade and investment. I am pleased that each intervention has been successfully transformed from concept to reality and commend the hard work of our colleagues and partners in achieving these milestones.

    But to consolidate results, maximize net effects, achieve greater efficiencies, drive higher synergistic value, quicken regional integration, extend and create new access markets and accelerate digital economy in Africa, the Bank is introducing customer-centric Africa Trade Gateway,” Awani said.

    She described ATG as the gateway into a definitive digital ecosystem made for Africa’s trade, supported by Afreximbank and the AfCFTA in collaboration with their partners, to answer the needs of businesses, governments and stakeholders by enabling trade, commerce and investment.

    Accroding to her, with the ATG, customers could complete all their transactions within one window.

    Read Also: Forex: Firm launches digital currency

    The launch ceremony included presentations on the services available under the various digital platforms and a panel discussion by the heads of the platforms during which they discussed the services they offered in support of trade across Africa and the implementation of the AfCFTA.

    MANSA, Africa’s due diligence platform, provides a single source of primary data required for the conduct of customer due diligence on African entities, financial institutions, corporates and SMEs. It also provides complementary collection of information on investment in Africa, country profiles and traded products/services of African countries.

    PAPSS was established to enable efficient payment for intra-African trade in national currencies, promoting intra-African trade, minimising risk and contributing to financial integration across Africa. In July 2019, African Union heads of state meeting in Niamey, adopted PAPSS as the payment and settlement system to support the implementation of the AfCFTA. It currently operates out of Cairo.

    TRADAR Club, is member-driven network aimed at empowering international businesses and executives to transform trade and investments in Africa through trusted trade intelligence and advisory services through innovative digital tools and networking opportunities, helping members to discover new markets; grow their business; save time; access dedicated expert support; post and respond to new business opportunities; network; meet business/trading partners, etc.  Membership is open to global industry leaders, African and foreign businesses, intergovernmental organisations, policy makers and others committed to unlocking growth and development in Africa.

    ATEX is a B2B and B2G e-commerce platform launched at the 54th Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in Dakar in May 2022, to help small and medium scale and large African businesses to tap into new markets in Africa and to facilitate the optimisation of their supply chains. It enables procurement in bulk for basic commodities to ensure access to suppliers in a transparent manner.

    ATG Connect serves to connect business service providers across Africa. It provides freight and logistics connectivity solutions which allow for frictionless connecting and matching of freight/ logistics requests with freight and logistics providers listed on the platform. Customers can get quotes for the pickup and delivery of goods to and from any location in Africa at a very competitive price.

  • EFCC warns skit, movie producers over use of jackets, symbols

    EFCC warns skit, movie producers over use of jackets, symbols

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned content producers against using its branded jackets, badges, insignia, and other accessories without the agency’s permission.

    The warning was contained in a statement by the commission’s head of media and publicity, Wilson Uwajeren. 

    The law enforcement agency notified the public that it was unlawful to use the EFCC brand in films without permission.

    He added the Public Affairs Department of the Commission was adequately equipped to work with content producers on the dangers of economic and financial crimes. 

    Also, the Commission issued an advisory that anyone discovered operating contrary to its advisory would be regarded as an impostor and properly dealt with.

    Read Also: Extreme pranks: Skit maker Trinity Guy risking arrest, says Police spokesman

    “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been drawn to the activities of content creators, movies and skit producers who use EFCC-branded Jackets, symbols, insignia and other accoutrements without authorization. 

    “The Commission wishes to notify the public that the use of the EFCC brand in movies without authorization is illegal. 

    “While the Commission appreciates the desire by some operators in the creative sector to produce movies/skits with plots around economic and financial crimes, it is incumbent on such operators to seek the Commission’s authorization, including vetting of scenes which purport to depict the operations of the Commission, to ensure that false or misleading messages are not passed to the public.

     “The Public Affairs Department of the Commission is adequately equipped to work with motion picture practitioners desirous of partnering with the Commission in using films and skits to educate the public, especially the youth on the dangers of economic and financial crimes. 

    “Anyone found acting contrary to this advisory shall henceforth be treated as an impersonator and dealt with accordingly.” 

  • FG, World Bank applaud Kwara education reforms, investment

    FG, World Bank applaud Kwara education reforms, investment

    The Federal government and World Bank teams on Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) have applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his administration’s reforms and commitments in improving learning outcomes for children in the state. 

    AGILE is a World Bank-assisted Project of the Federal Government. Kwara has qualified to be enrolled into the programme that seeks better girl child education, especially in senior secondary school.

    “Your Excellency, we know the story of Kwara State. We have seen the performance of Kwara State in education quality assurance. You have been a pace setter. Also, in the monitoring of learning achievements of performance of learners when it comes to basic education and post basic education, you are doing so well,” National Project Coordinator of AGILE project in the Federal Ministry of Education Hajia Aminah Haruna said during a visit to Government House Ilorin on Tuesday. 

    She added: “We have gone round and we have seen some schools and the possibility of intervening. We have seen commitments. We know you are coming from a long journey. But you have shown signs of strong commitments. We really appreciate that.”

    World Bank’s Senior Education Specialist in Nigeria Tunde Adekola said the team was in Kwara for its appraisal mission as the state is eligible for the AGILE project among the 11 additional states. 

    “Our coming here is to tell you that Kwara State is now eligible for the AGILE project. We are happy about this, and we call it an appraisal mission. It is after appraisal mission that we will do negotiations. This is very important to us because we have the original AGILE project in seven states and out of the 11 states that we are extending the project to, it is only six states that are ready now and Kwara is one of them,” he said, adding that the administration has really done well for the education sector.

    “We hope that by September, this project should be able to take off and start implementation in terms of resources we are bringing to the state because you have contributed N150m to support the project.

    “Part of the resources is to do construction and rehabilitation of classrooms, issue of digital literacy, girls empowerment among others. 

    “You are doing well in terms of basic education with construction. We have been to some schools, and we have seen a lot of efforts by the state government. More still need to done. That is why we are here. We appreciate you and your efforts and, more importantly, the support you have given to AGILE project.”

    Adekola explained that the intervention of the AbdulRazaq’s administration in the education sector has created a platform for the smooth take off of AGILE project in the state. 

    “You have really demonstrated that if there is commitment from government and there is interest to deliver for our people, it is not going to be difficult. 

    Kwara State Project Coordinator Adesina Salami noted that the Governor’s enthusiasm and love for education in Kwara State made it possible for the state to fulfill all the conditions set by the World Bank for the AGILE project. 

    Read Also: Petrol subsidy pushing Nigeria to bankruptcy, Sanusi warns

    “(His Excellency’s) love for female folk and education development of the state has made it possible to key into the adolescent girls’ initiative for learning and empowerment. By this, the females who are out of schools for one reason or the other (economic or social stigmatisation) will be brought back to schools, retain and make to transcend beyond secondary education under the project,” he said.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his part, said the administration has addressed many of the challenges facing the sector, including non-payment of salary and general infrastructural decay, but added that a lot still needs to be done. 

    “The challenges are huge. But we have addressed some of them. For the neglect of many years, it will take us time to cover some of these schools. And we are not doing concentric development by staying only in the state capital. We spread what we do across all the local government areas. The digital literacy centres, too, are spread across the state,” he said.

    “We have engaged New Globe to bring technology into our classrooms. With that, every teacher must know how to use a tablet…. That has helped us in issues of enumeration, curriculum, and check students’ absenteeism. KwaraLEARN programme is very effective.”

    AbdulRazaq promised improved budgetary provisions to support the education sector to address schools’ infrastructural deficits and improve teaching and learning across the state. 

    “For us, there are huge challenges and gaps. We will increase our budget in education and refocus more on the sector. I was in the School for Special Needs a few weeks ago, and we have sent a contractor in order to fix it. We will up our games in several areas. That is why we are happy with the aids we are getting in the AGILE project to see how we can expand what we are doing. Girl-child issue is very important and the issue of out of school children. Kwara is a pioneer state on the issue of SDG 5. We have passed a law that guarantees 35% political appointment for women,” he added.

    “When we came in in 2019, there was no single female legislator in the house of assembly. Today, we have five female lawmakers and the youngest female lawmaker in Nigeria today is from Kwara. It is a big challenge, but it is a gradual process. That is what AGILE project is all about: it is to make sure we attain SDG 5.”

  • The perils of dating a married person: Examining the consequences, ethical considerations

    The perils of dating a married person: Examining the consequences, ethical considerations

    By Revolution Ojie Okosun

    In the realm of modern dating, love has been known to inspire people to do extraordinary things. However, when it comes to dating a married person, one must question the extent of these actions. Dating is increasingly accessible in today’s digital age with countless apps connecting individuals based on shared interests and characteristics. Advances in technology also allow for near-perfect matchmaking. But amidst this landscape of options, the question remains: Is it acceptable to date a married man or woman?

    When it comes to matters of the heart there are no strict rules dictating whom one can or cannot date. It is the decision of two consenting adults to choose to spend time together, hoping to forge a connection and a possible future. However, numerous moral, social, financial, cultural, religious, and legal considerations come into play when contemplating dating choices. Such consideration is whether it is acceptable or not.

    Determining the permissibility of dating a married man typically hinges on societal, moral, and legal perspectives. Different societies, cultures and countries may have varying viewpoints on this matter. However, examining the issue from legal and moral standpoints is crucial, given the influence of laws and ethical principles on our daily lives.

    Analyzing the legality of dating a married man or woman proves challenging, as laws differ substantially across countries and within regions. In the United States, each of the 50 states has distinct laws, like South Dakota, New Mexico, Mississippi, Illinois, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and North Carolina, allowing jilted spouses to sue a third party for alienation of affection, others view such cases as criminal conversation. Although these laws aim to protect the marital benefits and companionship rights of spouses, their enforcement varies.

    Several countries also have legislation addressing extramarital relationships. In the Philippines, engaging in sexual activity with someone other than one’s spouse may lead to imprisonment. Islamic nations like Afghanistan, Northern Nigeria and Indonesia strictly forbid and punish adultery. Taiwan, amongst others also criminalizes adultery, resulting in prison sentences. However, the actual enforcement of these laws varies significantly.

    Morality is another vital aspect to consider when pondering the permissibility of dating a married person. Society’s perception, the fear of being labeled a “homewrecker,” and personal moral values all factor into the decision-making process. There are compelling reasons to avoid dating individuals who are married and committed to a spouse.

    Read Also: I’m dating a well-known billionaire, says Bobrisky

    Can a married person truly love another person deeply? This question delves into the complexity of human emotions. Love is a subjective experience and its depth varies from person to person. Some married individuals may find it challenging to detach themselves emotionally from their spouses, particularly when children are involved. Emotional baggage and comparisons with ex-partners can add further complications to new relationships. The constant need for validation and the toxicity of constant comparison can hinder the growth and happiness of both parties involved.

    While it is possible for a married man to experience love for someone outside marriage, there is no guarantee that such relationships will flourish. The multifaceted dynamics of personal circumstances, emotions, and commitments make each situation unique.

    Considering the impact on others is crucial when entering a relationship with a married man. Such actions can cause immense hurt and upheaval for the spouse and children involved. The sudden shift in affection can be distressing for the wife and children, leaving them feeling rejected and heartbroken. Relationships with children may suffer, and the married person may spend lesser time with his family, prioritizing the other woman. The consequences can be long-lasting, potentially irreparable, and profoundly damaging.

    It is essential to recognize that dating a married man often leads to unfulfilled promises and disappointment. The hope that he will leave his wife and children to be with his new partner is often a mirage. Marriages experience ups and downs and couples work through their challenges. The problems that led a man to seek external relationships are often resolved, resulting in a return to his family. Where a divorce does occur, the likelihood of the man leaving the new partner for someone else in the future remains a possibility.

    Dating a married man often places individuals in a secondary position. While he may claim to love the new partner, his wife and family remain the primary focus. No one should settle for being a rebound or a secondary choice. Everyone deserves to be the first choice in a relationship and to be valued accordingly.

    Furthermore, relationships with married individuals often lack the fulfillment and stability that individuals seek. The constant comparison with the spouse or ex-spouse, coupled with the unbreakable bond between the married spouse and their children, could leave the new partner feeling inadequate and unsatisfied and trust issues may arise as both parties are aware of the infidelity and the potential for betrayal.

    The decision to date a married person, whether male or female should not be taken lightly. Engaging in such relationships could lead to heartbreak, damaged lives and a profound sense of regret. True dating relationships should be built on trust, respect and genuine connection. Security and comfort should be found in a partner, not a constant fear of being hurt or exposed. Therefore, it is imperative to consider the broader implications and ethical consequences before embarking on a relationship with a married person.

    Mr Revolution (Ojie Okosun)
    Host and Founder: Revolution Coaching and Counselling

  • Gospel artiste spreads faith with new track ‘I Believe’

    Gospel artiste spreads faith with new track ‘I Believe’

    Nigerian gospel artiste, Emmanuel Jeremiah has restated his commitment to using his music to spread the transformative power of God’s love and redemption with the release of his new track, ‘I Believe’.

    Produced by Godwin Hillary Udofia of Hillsplay Production, the artiste magnifies his mission to spread the faith through the gentle power of music. The title track: ‘I Believe’, resonates deeply with those seeking reassurance and strength in their faith journey.

    The artiste says that despite the inevitable challenges and setbacks that accompany the pursuit of an artistic career, he remains resolute in his commitment to spreading the faith through his music.

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    “I believe that music can break down barriers, unite hearts, and ignite a spiritual awakening. Through my unwavering dedication to the art, I intend to inspire listeners to embrace their faith journeys, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among believers around the world,” he said.

    Born and raised in the serene town of Orlu, Imo State, Emmanuel discovered his calling as a musician at a tender age.
    Nurtured by a deep faith and an unwavering belief in the profound impact of music, he has dedicated his life to crafting melodies that touch the very depths of the soul and lyrics that resonate with the human experience. Under his stage name, Emmanuel Jeremiah, with the support of his producer Godwin Hillary Udofia, channels his passion for music into a vessel of divine inspiration.

    The artiste says that his music transcends borders, cultures, and languages, effortlessly connecting with audiences around the globe.

  • Elegantflix celebrates award-winning ambassador Okonkwo

    Elegantflix celebrates award-winning ambassador Okonkwo

    International 3D magazine, Elegantflix has rolled out the drums to celebrate one of its brand ambassadors, young actor, Malachi Okonkwo on the occasion of his birthday .

    Multiple award – winning Okonkwo, who has featured in many movies and still counting is the younger brother of another Elegantflix magazine, Mark Okonkwo.

    Read Also: Aproko Doctor becomes brand ambassador

    In a celebratory mood, Malachi’s mother who is also an accomplished movie actress, producer Florence Okonkwo said: ” Today ambassador Malachi is 17 years today. I thank the Almighty God for everything. I cannot say it all. May he continue to grow in God’s grace and wisdom.”