The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Alma mater gets sick bay

    Alma mater gets sick bay

    The old students of CAC Grammar School (CAPOSTO), Efon-Alaaye in Ekiti State (1979 – 84 set), have donated a sick bay to the 65-year old school.

    The facility was donated in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of their graduation from the school.

    The chairman of the Project Committee. Dr. Olusola Dada, who lauded the set, said the ceremony was not just a celebration of a building, but that of vision, commitment, collective sacrifice, and love for the alma mater.

    Dada said the school shaped their early years, nurtured their dreams, and laid the foundation for who they have become in the society.

    He added: “As we commission this sick bay today, we are not just unveiling a building—we are sowing a seed of care, hope, and continuity. “May this project inspire other sets, partners, and stakeholders to continue supporting the growth and development of CAC Grammar School.”

    Dada, Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and bursar of Yaba College of Technology, explained the motivation for embarking on the project.

    He said: “Health is the cornerstone of learning. A child who is unwell cannot concentrate, cannot participate, and cannot thrive.

    “For years, the school has needed a dedicated and properly equipped health facility to respond to emergencies, attend to minor illnesses, and support the overall wellbeing of students and staff.

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    “Realising this gap, our set resolved that as we mark 40 years since we graduated, we must leave behind a tangible contribution that addresses a real need, aligns with global best practices, and promotes a safe, healthy learning environment.”

    Hailing the commitment of the old students, Dada said “this project represents months of planning, fundraising, design, construction, supervision, and collaboration.”

    He thanked them for their unwavering support, moral encouragement, and financial contributions, which brought the vision to life.

    Dada also lauded the school administration for their cooperation and guidance throughout the project, and to the contractors for delivering quality work that meet the expectations.

    He added: “It is our hope that this facility will improve student wellbeing, reduce avoidable health complications, and enhance the overall learning experience in this great institution.”

    Dada urged the school leadership, teachers, and students to take ownership of this facility, maintain, protect and use it responsibly.

    He praised the committee members, supporters and other stakeholders for their support.

    These include the presidend of CAPOSTO Old Students Association, Dr. Adekunle Ojo (SAN), the patron, Prof. Adio Folayan, an eminent pharmacist and cleric, Bishop Gbenga Oni, Ajayi Magret, Funke E. Fayehun, an engineer, Suyi Dada, a chartered accountant, Mrs. Gbemisola Dada Gbemisola, and the builder, Goke Oluwasola.

  • Old students commit to education, upgrade facility

    Old students commit to education, upgrade facility

    The President, Government College Ikorodu Old Students Association(GCIOSA), Ademola Somide, has reiterated the association’s commitment to improving the school’s facilities and ensuring students receive quality education, and learn in a conducive environment.

    He spoke on Monday at the handover of the  school’s dining hall renovated by the old students.

    Somide said over the years, the association as a whole, or its sub-sets had carried out various interventions in the school.

    He listed them to include, solar lighting across strategic routes in the school compound; a functional e-library for the senior school; the complete replacement of toilet facilities in both male and female hostels; the continuous upgrading of the senior school science laboratories, and the provision of a functional Science Laboratory for the junior school, among others.

    Somide urged the students and school authorities to maintain the facility properly, describing it as a “gift of love”.

    “The renovated School Dining Hall, completed through the contributions of our alumni worldwide at a cost exceeding N40 million, is a shining demonstration of this duty fulfilled. Importantly, this project forms part of last year’s activities commemorating the 50th Founders’ Day of the school,” he said.

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    He urged the Lagos State Government to rehabilitate a dilapidated and abandoned structure within the school premises, adding that its rehabilitation will expand capacity and enhance the learning environment.

    He thanked every alumnus and alumna who contributed, including the United Kingdom project committee and the Nigeria project committee past and present President of the UK Chapter,  Alhaji Taofeek Musa,represented by Mr Taiwo Adeoye a member of the association, urged the pupils to use the facility well, adding the old students are poised for more developments in the school.

    Principal Senior School Mrs Modupe Adefolarin thanked the old students for their love and  support for their alma mater.

    She warned the students not to turn the tables to table tennis court, adding that the old students have shown love by contributing their hard earned money to realise the project.

    Assistant Senior Perfect, Simon Abacho thanked  the old students for their intervention. He said before, the dining hall had leaky roofs, but the alumni rectified that. He  promised that the students would not deface the facility.

  • AMACOS 94/99 set, AGH to launch multi-million naira library in Ogun

    AMACOS 94/99 set, AGH to launch multi-million naira library in Ogun

    In a remarkable demonstration of alumni commitment to educational development, the Association of Mass Communication Students (AMACOS) 94/99 Set of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, in partnership with After God’s Heart Incorporated (AGH), has announced the upcoming inauguration of a multi-million naira Mini Community Library.

    The facility, situated within Abeokuta North Local Government Area, is poised to serve both students and residents of the area.

    Designed as a student-friendly learning hub, the Mini Community Library is equipped with reading desks, shelves, study materials, reference books, and other essential educational resources.

    The project aims to bridge learning gaps, promote a culture of reading, and provide a safe and conducive environment for academic development.

    The initiative forms part of the Legacy Projects of the AMACOS 94/99 Set, commemorating their reunion activities themed #30YearsOfFriendshipAndTogetherness, and underscores their dedication to fostering educational advancement in Ogun State.

    Speaking on the reunion plans, the chairman of the Reunion Planning Committee, Lady Lolade Akokhia, highlighted a series of activities lined up for the alumni.

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     “Our activities include courtesy visits to the Mass Communication Department of MAPOLY for the inauguration of an advertising studio and ARCON accreditation project, as well as joint presentations to non-academic staff. We will also visit the Rector, attend Jumat service, commission the library, visit the Abeokuta Correctional Centre, and round off with a Reconnect & Refresh evening event,” she said.

    The three-day reunion, continuing on Saturday with a FunFest at Olumo Rock and culminating with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, is designed to strengthen professional bonds, reconnect old classmates, and reinforce the alumni’s commitment to community development and educational empowerment. Commenting on the Mini Library, the Chairman of AGH, Dr. D. Olawale, said, “This project is driven by a shared passion for youth empowerment and academic excellence. The Mini Library will provide students with access to quality learning materials, especially as they prepare for critical examinations such as WAEC and JAMB. Collaborating with AMACOS 94/99, a group of professionals deeply committed to community growth, has been truly inspiring.”

    Echoing this sentiment, the President of AMACOS 94/99, Mr. Adenekan Moruff, expressed gratitude to AGH and the Abeokuta North Local Government leadership for their support. “

  • NUC gets €3million for ICT projects in 10 varsities

    NUC gets €3million for ICT projects in 10 varsities

    • Board targets reforms, better global rankings

    The National Universities Commission (NUC) has said it got €3 million as the first tranche of the €40 million loan secured from the French Development Agency to support Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) projects in 10 selected universities.

    The commission’s Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, announced this yesterday during the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC Board at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The 10 beneficiary universities include the University of Calabar (UniCal), the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), University of Ibadan(UI), the Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, and the University of Maiduguri (UniMaid).

    Others are: Bayero University, Kano (BUK); Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola; Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife; Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and the University of Jos (UniJos).

     Ribadu noted that since assuming office about a year ago, the Commission has pushed forward several initiatives centred on research, entrepreneurship, digital transformation and skills development across Nigerian universities.

    He said: “We have secured €40 million loan from the French Development Agency for the ICT Blueprint Project in 10 selected universities. We have strengthened – only yesterday, the Director confirmed to me that the first tranche of €3 million has been deposited in our Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) account to kick-start the process.

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    “We have strengthened internal financial management, expanded access to university education through the licensing of new private universities, and approved new programmes and units.

    “We have also supported the take-off of publicly funded universities, expanded open and distance learning centers, and continued system-wide quality assurance exercises. Currently, the 2025 Accreditation Exercise is ongoing.

    “These priorities continue to form the foundation of the Commission’s direction, and I am seeking your support in advancing them.”

    Ribadu assured the board of the commission’s full cooperation, saying the management stands ready to draw from the members’ expertise.

    “We will rely on your wisdom to guide us as we carry out our duties. I am confident that your collective experience will strengthen the Commission’s capacity to guide the Nigerian university system at a time when higher education continues to evolve.

    “We also look forward to using your networks to help advance projects and partnerships that will benefit the Commission and the entire university system,” he added.

    The Chairman of the 13th NUC Board, Emeritus Professor Oluremi Raphael Aina, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sustained support for the university sector.

    He said the board was assuming its mandate at a time of transition for higher education, with global standards rising and expectations increasing.

    Aina outlined five central pillars that would guide the board’s work, covering performance evaluation, improved university rankings, digital literacy, research and institutional reforms.

    He said: “As we settle into this assignment, but permit me to present what I call five pillars that I believe will help guide our stewardship.

    “One, evaluation of NUC performance. We must examine in detail the Act that buffered and laid the foundation for the NUC. We also need to be conversant with the various amendments to the act, its vision and mission, guiding principles and ethics.

    “Then we must study the Commission’s operational challenges and landmark achievements. Going forward, we should compare ourselves against global standards, not sentiments, not history, and where we fall short, how we fall short, and why we must adjust boldly.

    “Two: aligning with the renewed hope agenda of the present administration, the president has made education a pillar of national rebirth with the establishment of the fund and other initiatives.

    “The signal sent to the world is that Nigeria is ready to reset and rebuild. Through our assignment, we must lead other key stakeholders in the higher education sector in pragmatically resolving the naughty and nagging agitation of the academic staff union and other university unions.

    “Advancements must also be made to enhance digital literacy and especially the use of artificial intelligence, AI, as tools to strategically reposition the universities nationally and internationally. Overall, it will also be a priority for the 13th board to work with the management for radical improvements in both the global and webometric ranking of our universities.

    “Three: identifying and dismantling obstacles to university quality. Governance deficiencies, fund constraints, research stagnation, et cetera, must no longer be accepted as normal. Our duty is to reform and make progress, not to manage decline.

    “Four, reviewing existing funding and exploring new channels for sustainable funding. Nigerian universities cannot thrive on ingenuity alone. The board must intensify the research for alternative funding sources. Strengthen utilization and explore emerging and local opportunities.

    “And five, investing in the welfare and capacity of NUC staff and regulatory infrastructure. The system cannot overperform its operators. Credible accreditation and monitoring require strengthened conditions of service and protected regulatory independence.”

    Aina added that the Board would fully leverage technology in its operations.

    “We will seek to leverage technology to ease our burden through adoption of digital platforms for the advancement of our collective objectives. And I have a charge for the board. This board, in whom I am well-pleased, carries with it the weight of expectations and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he said.

  • Kwara teachers hail BBYDI’s AI flashcards, storybooks

    Kwara teachers hail BBYDI’s AI flashcards, storybooks

    Teachers across Kwara State have commended the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) for introducing AI Flashcards and Storybooks designed to help young learners understand the rapidly expanding world of artificial intelligence. The resources were unveiled during a two-day AI Literacy Workshop for teachers in Ilorin, which attracted participants from public and private schools across the state.

    Developed under BBYDI’s AI Literacy for Everyday People programme, supported by the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, the flashcards and storybooks were described by teachers as “long-overdue tools” capable of modernising teaching and improving pupils’ digital readiness.

    The materials, which simplify AI concepts through age-appropriate storytelling and colourful illustrations, were tested live in the workshop as teachers worked in groups to develop stories, lesson notes, and classroom activities using the resources. Facilitators demonstrated how storytelling could break down technical concepts for children in basic schools, helping them understand how AI appears in everyday life—from digital assistants to translation apps and smart devices.

    A highlight of the training was a practical session where teachers used AI tools such as Gemini and NotebookLM to create children’s stories within minutes. One group developed an illustrated story on “contentment” for pupils aged six to eight, prompting AI to generate characters, narration, and accompanying images. Others used AI to craft short lesson summaries, video animations, and reading passages tailored to different age groups.

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    Many teachers said the experience revealed how much AI could simplify lesson planning and classroom delivery. They also noted that pupils were already interacting with AI-driven apps at home, making the flashcards and stories timely and necessary for guiding safe and responsible use.

    One teacher, Ms. Barakat Alli, described the training as “a major shift in how we think about teaching,” adding that the workshop opened her eyes to “endless possibilities” for blending AI tools with classroom instruction. Others said the resources would help them introduce pupils to emerging career paths and strengthen comprehension, especially for younger learners who respond better to stories.

    The teachers also learned how to use AI to generate lesson notes, create animations, design slideshows, prepare assessments, and conduct research. Several said the training would significantly reduce workload, giving them more time for personalised teaching.

    The workshop received support from the Kwara State Ministry of Education, whose leadership praised BBYDI for equipping teachers with skills aligned with global best practices in digital learning. Officials noted that integrating AI into classrooms had become increasingly vital as the world moves toward technology-driven economies.

    BBYDI’s Communications Director, Sanni Alausa-Issa, said the goal of the materials was to ensure that no child grows up digitally excluded. “If the future of work is AI-driven, the foundations must be laid in primary and secondary schools,” he said. “These flashcards and storybooks allow teachers to introduce AI in a way children can understand, enjoy, and apply safely.”

  • Olubadan, Sunmonu, others bag doctorate at Lead City varsity 

    Olubadan, Sunmonu, others bag doctorate at Lead City varsity 

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Sen. Rashidi Ladoja, and veteran trade unionist, Com. Hasan Sunmonu, were among prominent figures awarded honorary doctorate degrees by Lead City University, Ibadan, during the grand finale of the institution’s 18th convocation ceremony.

    Oba Ladoja was conferred with a Doctor of Science in Public Administration (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his contributions to leadership and public service. Com. Sunmonu, pioneer President of the Nigeria Labour Congress and former General Secretary of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity, received the Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa).

    Other honorees included Mr. Olalekan Bello, Chairman of FCSL Asset Management Company, and Mr. Olakunle Williams, President and CEO of Tetracore Energy Group, both awarded Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa) degrees.

    In his address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo reported that a total of 3,379 students graduated this year, comprising 2,162 first-degree recipients and 1,219 higher-degree holders, including 290 students who graduated with first-class honours.

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    Prof. Adeyemo explained that the honorary degrees were awarded to acknowledge the recipients’ exceptional achievements, leadership, and contributions to society. 

    He also noted that the convocation coincided with the university’s 20th anniversary, marking two decades of academic development, scholarship, and innovation.

    The Vice-Chancellor described the ceremony as a culmination of the graduands’ diligence and perseverance, highlighting the support provided by families, mentors, and the university community in their success.

    He described it as a dual celebration: honouring the Enterprise Class of 2025 as they take their place in the world, and acknowledging the remarkable progress Lead City University has made over twenty years in shaping individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.

    The Vice-Chancellor highlighted significant investments by the university, revealing that over N200 million has been committed to staff training, workshops, professional development programmes, and sponsorship for national and international conferences. 

    This, he said, has raised the quality of teaching and administration and enhanced the ability of the university’s staff to compete globally.

    Addressing the graduands, Adeyemo urged them to uphold integrity, pursue excellence, embrace service, and equip themselves with emerging digital skills and innovative mindsets. 

    He encouraged them to become employers rather than mere job seekers, to champion peace, justice, and nation-building, and to contribute meaningfully to global development, noting that their education has prepared them for these responsibilities.

    Earlier in the event, Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Gabriel Ogunmola thanked parents, guardians, and families of the graduands for their unwavering support, sacrifice, and commitment, which ensured the successful completion of their academic journeys.

    Responding on behalf of the honorees, Mr. Olalekan Bello expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and described the institution as a true citadel of academic excellence, pledging their continued partnership and support.

    He, however, urged the graduating students to strive for excellence and to embrace Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies in order to equip themselves for future challenges.

  • NUC gets €3m to commence ICT projects in 10 varsities

    NUC gets €3m to commence ICT projects in 10 varsities

    • …as board targets reforms, better global rankings

    The National Universities Commission (NUC) said it has received three million euros as the first tranche of the 40 million euros loan secured from the French Development Agency to support Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) projects in 10 selected universities.

    Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, announced this during the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC Board on Wednesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The 10 beneficiary universities include the University of Calabar, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Ibadan, Federal University of Technology, Minna, and University of Maiduguri.

    Others are Bayero University Kano, Modibbo Adama University Yola, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and the University of Jos.

    Prof. Ribadu noted that since assuming office about a year ago, the Commission has pushed forward several initiatives centred on research, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and skills development across Nigerian universities.

    He stated, “We have secured a 40 million euro loan from the French Development Agency for the ICT Blueprint Project in 10 selected universities. We have strengthened – only yesterday, the Director confirmed to me that the first tranche of 3 million euros has been deposited in our Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) account to kick-start the process.

    “We have strengthened internal financial management, expanded access to university education through the licensing of new private universities, and approved new programs and units.

    “We have also supported the take-off of publicly funded universities, expanded open and distance learning centers, and continued system-wide quality assurance exercises. Currently, the 2025 Accreditation Exercise is ongoing.

    “These priorities continue to form the foundation of the Commission’s direction, and I am seeking your support in advancing them.”

    Ribadu assured the Board of the Commission’s full cooperation, saying the management stands ready to draw from the members’ expertise.

    “We will rely on your wisdom to guide us as we carry out our duties. I am confident that your collective experience will strengthen the Commission’s capacity to guide the Nigerian university system at a time when higher education continues to evolve.

    “We also look forward to using your networks to help advance projects and partnerships that will benefit the Commission and the entire university system,” he added.

    On his part, Chairman of the 13th NUC Board, Emeritus Professor Oluremi Raphael Aina, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his sustained support for the university sector.

    He said the Board is assuming its mandate at a time of transition for higher education, with global standards rising and expectations increasing.

    Aina outlined five central pillars that will guide the Board’s work, covering performance evaluation, improved university rankings, digital literacy, research, and institutional reforms.

    He said, “As we settle into this assignment, permit me to present what I call five pillars that I believe will help guide our stewardship.

    “One, evaluation of NUC performance. We must examine in detail the Act that buffered and laid the foundation for the NUC. We also need to be conversant with the various amendments to the act, its vision and mission, guiding principles, and ethics.

    “Then we must study the Commission’s operational challenges and landmark achievements. Going forward, we should compare ourselves against global standards, not sentiments, not history, and where we fall short, how we fall short, and why we must adjust boldly.

    “Two, aligning with the renewed hope agenda of the present administration, the president has made education a pillar of national rebirth with the establishment of the fund and other initiatives.

    “The signal sent to the world is that Nigeria is ready to reset and rebuild. Through our assignment, we must lead other key stakeholders in the higher education sector. In pragmatically resolving the longstanding agitation of the academic staff union and other university unions.

    “Advancements must also be made to enhance digital literacy and especially the use of artificial intelligence, AI, as tools to strategically reposition the universities nationally and internationally. Overall, it will also be a priority for the 13th board to work with the management for radical improvements in both the global and webometric ranking of our universities.

    “Three, identifying and dismantling obstacles to university quality. Governance deficiencies, fund constraints, research stagnation, et cetera, must no longer be accepted as normal. Our duty is to reform and make progress, not to manage decline.

    “Four, reviewing existing funding and exploring new channels for sustainable funding. Nigerian universities cannot thrive on ingenuity alone. The board must intensify the research for alternative funding sources. Strengthen utilization and explore emerging and local opportunities.

    “And five, investing in the welfare and capacity of NUC staff and regulatory infrastructure. The system cannot overperform its operators. Credible accreditation and monitoring require strengthened conditions of service and protected regulatory independence.”

    Aina added that the Board would fully leverage technology in its operations.

    “We will seek to leverage technology to ease our burden through the adoption of digital platforms for the advancement of our collective objectives. And I have a charge for the board. This board, in whom I am well-pleased, carries with it the weight of expectations and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he said.

  • Oborevwori approves automatic scholarships for best graduating students in Delta-owned universities

    Oborevwori approves automatic scholarships for best graduating students in Delta-owned universities

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved automatic scholarship awards for the best graduating students across the four state-owned universities, in a move aimed at strengthening academic excellence and supporting youth development.

    The Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board announced that its Executive Secretary, Dr. Godfrey Enita, stated the gesture exemplifies the Governor’s strong commitment to empowering youth through the M.O.R.E. Agenda, especially in human capital development.

    According to the Board, the automatic scholarship scheme will benefit the Best Graduating Student from each academic session in the following state-owned institutions: Delta State University, Abraka; Southern Delta University, Ozoro; University of Delta, Agbor, and Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

    Dr. Enita explained that each awardee would receive full funding to pursue Masters and Ph.D programmes in recognized Nigerian universities.

    He noted that beneficiaries would be required to complete the standard scholarship procedures and documentation to access the awards.

    He added that the initiative underscored the state government’s determination to raise a highly skilled, globally competitive youth population capable of contributing to Delta State’s long-term growth.

    “The Board remains committed to creating opportunities that uplift our students and encourage academic distinction,” Enita assured.

    The new scholarship policy is expected to further motivate undergraduates across the state-owned institutions to strive for excellence, while positioning Delta State as a leading hub for educational advancement in Nigeria.

  • UNILAG alumni honours Meranda, Olawande, Akindele, others  

    UNILAG alumni honours Meranda, Olawande, Akindele, others  

    It was a night of pomp, glitz and glamour recently as the Lagos State Branch of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association honoured a number of distinguished Nigerians and alumni who have made notable contributions to the development of the university and the nation at large.

    The event which held at Radisson Hotel, Lagos tagged: “Anniversary awards and evening with the corporate world”, had in attendance dignitaries including Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola; UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola; Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Akintoye Akindele; Chairmen of the Occasion — Dr. Segun Oshundairo and Dr. Oyeyemi Ayoola, others. 

    The chairman, UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos Branch, Com. Owoeye Adedeji explained that the initiative was borne out of the association’s commitment to give back to their alma mater, not just in words, but through visible, impactful action. 

    He said: “This is a celebration of shared values, partnerships and the growing surgery between academia and industry — the gown and the town. 

    “This year has been marked by remarkable progress for the Lagos State Branch through our collaborative efforts. 

    “These achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our members, partners and corporate stakeholders. 

    “These are distinguished individuals and partners whose contributions have added value to society and to our alumni community. 

    “Let’s be reminded that the strength of any alumni body lies in its unity, community, and shared vision. Together, we can shape a future where out university continues to produce not just graduates, but leaders, innovators and changemakers. 

    The Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Akindele in his speech tasked alumni members to be committed to nation building, while promising to leverage on his extensive network with global partners to the move the association forward.

    He urged members to continue supporting the alumni association for its sustained progress. 

    Similarly, UNILAG VC, Prof. Ogunshola in her remarks commended the association for their contributions and plans for their alma mater. 

    She said: “Modern universities cannot thrive in isolation; it requires a symbiotic relationship to compete globally. We have deepened our partnership with international institutions and multilateral agencies. 

    “We have prioritised innovation emerging from our Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre, the impact of infrastructural renewal, aimed at improving the learning, research, and residential experience across the university. 

    “These advancements are part of our broader vision to position the university, as a globally competitive, future-ready, and research-driven institution capable of responding effectively to national and global challenges.

    “While the university has made considerable progress, it is clear that much more can be achieved through robust collaborations with alumni and business partners. I, therefore, use this occasion to make a formal appeal for people and teachers in foreign areas, endowments, and scholarships to support students from academically disadvantaged backgrounds.

    “We also would like industry research partners to speak of problems to us, challenge us, help us, and let us show you what we can do so that we can equip our students with the practical skills that they have.”

    The awardees include: Chairman, Platform Capital, Dr. Akintoye Akindele; Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda; Ayodele Olawande; Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo; Yussuf Olatunji Kelani; Dr. Segun Oshundairo.

    Others are: Dr. Ayoola Ogunyemi; Dr. Seinde Fadeni; Dr. Olufemi Ogunsanya; Foluso Phillips; Alhaji Adigun Saheed; Hon. Seyi Jakande; Akerele Ajewole; Hon. Tunbosun Aruwe.

    One of the awardees, Rt. Hon. Meranda in her brief remarks, commended the association’s plans to build bridges between the university and the corporate world. 

    She further lauded the association for its impactful projects over the years. Meranda pledged to support the association in making an impact in the university community and the state at large.

  • UNN urges stronger national policies on natural capital, climate-smart agriculture

    UNN urges stronger national policies on natural capital, climate-smart agriculture

    The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), on Tuesday brought together senior policymakers, academics, security agencies, and development partners in Enugu for its annual Policy Day, issuing a strong call for Nigeria to urgently strengthen policies on natural capital management, water security, climate-smart agriculture, and food systems resilience.

    The event, organised by the Resource and Environmental Policy Research Centre – Environment for Development (REPRC-EfD Nigeria), featured the presentation of three major studies focusing on water scarcity, climate-smart agriculture, and the impact of armed banditry on food security.

    Declaring the event open, UNN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (UNEC), Prof. J. U. J. Onwumere, said the theme, “Sustaining Natural Capital: Policy Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture and Urban Water Systems,” reflects the university’s commitment to generating evidence-based research to support national development.

    He identified water, agriculture, and security as “three critical pillars of Nigeria’s food system,” noting that all three face severe pressure from climate change, environmental degradation, and escalating insecurity.

    “Water scarcity threatens agricultural productivity, climate change has disrupted rainfall patterns, and banditry has displaced thousands of farmers. These realities directly undermine food security, peace, health, and economic stability,” he said.

    Prof. Ortuanya praised REPRC-EfD Nigeria for producing research that informs policy solutions in water management, climate-smart agriculture, and the socio-economic impacts of insecurity.

    He also acknowledged the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), noting that the centre contributes to a global network of EfD centres across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

    He expressed confidence that deliberations from the Policy Day would “chart new pathways for sustainable water, agriculture and food security policies in Nigeria.”

    Director of REPRC-EfD Nigeria, Prof. Nnaemeka Chukwuone, said the Policy Day functions as the centre’s annual platform for presenting research findings to policymakers at both federal and state levels.

    He highlighted the three studies presented: water scarcity and households’ willingness to pay for improved water supply in Enugu; gendered impacts of climate-smart agriculture on nutrition and poverty among cassava farmers; and gender-differentiated effects of armed banditry on agricultural productivity.

    “These studies were conducted in collaboration with relevant ministries and supported by our development partners. Today, we expect policymakers to draw from the evidence presented to enhance policy formulation and implementation,” he added.

    He noted the presence of officials from the Federal Ministries of Environment, Water Resources and Agriculture; the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC); state ministries from Enugu and Anambra; and multiple security agencies.

    Representing the Federal Ministry of Environment, Deputy Director, Vulnerability and Adaptation, Jonah Barde, praised the collaboration with the UNN centre and stressed the urgency of strengthening climate policies in the face of worsening environmental challenges.

    “We must formulate strong policies and instruments to ensure our environment is not damaged further,” he said.

    Barde announced the ministry’s updated National Adaptation Plan, which outlines Nigeria’s strategies for tackling flooding, erosion and other climate impacts.

    In her goodwill message, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Barr. Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, represented by Ms. Chinwe Adindu, said the Policy Day aligns with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0 and recent COP30 commitments.

    She said climate change is already intensifying water scarcity, degrading soils and worsening insecurity for rural communities.

    “We must strengthen the climate-security nexus because the resilience of agriculture and water systems depends on a safe and stable environment,” she said.

    According to her, the recent approval of the National Carbon Market Framework and the National Climate Change Fund presents “major opportunities to finance watershed rehabilitation, regenerative agriculture, efficient irrigation and community-based nature solutions.”

    She described the UNN research findings as “exactly what Nigeria needs” for evidence-based policymaking.

    “Sustaining natural capital is essential to food security, water availability, national security and economic productivity,” she said, reaffirming NCCC’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with the centre.

    Permanent Secretary, Enugu State Ministry of Water Resources, Dr. Ada Joy Nwaoye, also commended the centre and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration in addressing water scarcity and climate change impacts in the state.

    Stakeholders agreed that the research presented, combined with cross-sector dialogue involving security agencies, climate institutions, and government ministries, offers actionable insights for improving Nigeria’s water systems, agricultural resilience and climate adaptation planning.

    The event concluded with a commitment to deeper collaboration between academia and government to ensure that research outputs continue to inform policymaking in Nigeria’s agricultural and environmental sectors.