The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Nigeria

  • Nigeria, others to spend $350b on automation, software, hardware

    Nigeria, others to spend $350b on automation, software, hardware

    Nigeria and other countries across the world will spend over $350 billion by 2030 on industrial automation software and hardware with over 4,000 major automation projects already mapped globally.

    According to IoT Analytics research which underscores that industrial automation is not just expanding in scale but also evolving in complexity, with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), internet of Things (IoT), and robotics increasingly integrated into automation strategies.

    These projects span manufacturing, energy, utilities, and logistics, reflecting a broad-based commitment to digital transformation and operational excellence, according to azumo.com in its latest insight.

    A key trend identified is the growing role of AI-powered solutions, particularly in areas like predictive maintenance, real-time quality control, and autonomous operations. The report noted that companies are leveraging AI to drive productivity, reduce downtime, and enhance safety, while also addressing workforce shortages and supply chain disruptions. Notably, the convergence of AI with other digital technologies is enabling more resilient and adaptive industrial systems, positioning automation as a critical lever for competitiveness in a rapidly changing global landscape.

    AI agents, both virtual and embodied, are enabling near-autonomous systems, transforming factories into powerhouses of real-time intelligence and operational resilience.

    Manufacturing stands at the forefront of AI-powered automation. AI applications will become a key component to competitiveness in the long run. As it becomes integral to predictive maintenance, real-time quality control, robotics, and supply chain optimization. The sector’s drive to reduce downtime, increase throughput, and address labor shortages has made AI essential for modern factories.

    “While these market size numbers may feel fanciful to some, they are without doubt directionally accurate,” CEO of Azumo, Chike Agbai, said.

    Key drivers, according to the report include cost savings and productivity gains; labor shortages and need for operational resilience; competitive pressure to modernize and localize supply chains; and safety and compliance enhancements

    In the financial services and banking sector, the report noted that the financial sector was among the earliest adopters of AI for automating risk analysis, fraud detection, algorithmic trading, and customer service. Over 30 per cent of financial services companies report significant use of AI in product development and operations.

    “At Azumo, we’ve supported clients with AI-driven analytics platforms that power everything from contract analysis to forward-looking price prediction for asset managers,” Agbai noted.

    The key drivers in this area too are need for real-time decision-making and risk mitigation; regulatory compliance and fraud prevention; competitive differentiation through personalized services; and cost reduction via automation of manual processes

    Healthcare is experiencing a transformative AI wave, from diagnostics and personalized medicine to administrative automation and patient engagement. AI models now assist in analyzing medical images, predicting health outcomes, and automating billing and coding, leading to improved patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

    Key drivers in the health sector include demand for improved patient outcomes; pressure to reduce administrative burden and costs; advances in data availability and medical imaging; and regulatory incentives for digital transformation.

    In the retail and e-commerce landscape, retailers leverage AI for personalized recommendations, dynamic pricing, inventory management, and customer service automation. AI-driven insights optimize stock levels, forecast demand, and enhance the customer journey, with companies such as Amazon setting the standard for AI-enabled retail experiences.

    Desire to enhance customer experience and loyalty; need for efficient inventory and supply chain management; competitive pressure from digital-native retailers; growth in omnichannel commerce are essentially the kay factors driving this.

    In the energy, utilities, and oil & gas sector, AI is increasingly used for predictive maintenance, reservoir modeling, grid optimization, and energy management. In oil and gas, AI-driven analytics optimize field development and resource recovery, while utilities deploy AI for smart grid management and demand forecasting driven largely by the need to maximize asset utilization and uptime; regulatory and environmental pressures; transition to renewable energy and smart grids; and cost containment in volatile commodity markets.

    In logistics and transportation, the insight showed that AI now powers route optimization, real-time tracking, autonomous vehicles, and warehouse automation. The sector’s focus on efficiency, sustainability, and customer expectations has accelerated AI adoption for both operational and strategic decision-making.

    Demand for rapid, reliable delivery; cost savings through route and resource optimization; labor shortages in logistics and warehousing; and sustainability and emissions reduction targets are the drivers of the shift.

    Professional services organisations are not left out in the race to deploy AI as professional services firms such as law, consulting, and accounting-are automating document review, contract analysis, and even elements of client advisory with AI.

    For instance, JPMorgan’s COIN platform automates thousands of hours of legal work in seconds.

    Cost and time savings; increased accuracy and reduced human error; pressure to deliver more value-added services; and talent shortages in specialized roles are driving adoption in this sphere of human endeavour, according to azumo.com.

    Several converging factors are driving the surge in AI automation across these sectors. They include

    productivity and cost savings: AI’s ability to automate repetitive, high-volume tasks and optimize complex processes is a primary motivator. Companies are seeking to do more with less, especially amid labor shortages and rising operational cost.

    Read Also: Nigerians must look beyond short-term hardship -DOJ

    Competitive pressure: As AI becomes embedded in standard business applications, organizations face pressure to keep pace or risk falling behind digitally native competitors.

    New Service Models and Innovation: AI enables new product and service offerings, from personalized healthcare and financial advice to autonomous vehicles and smart energy solutions28.

    Data Availability and Cloud Computing: The explosion of data and the accessibility of cloud-based AI tools have lowered the barrier to entry, making AI adoption feasible for companies of all sizes.

    Regulatory and market forces: Sectors like energy, healthcare, and finance are under pressure to comply with regulations, improve transparency, and meet evolving customer and stakeholder expectations.

    “At Azumo, our project pipeline reflects these trends. Over the past two years, we’ve seen the highest demand for AI automation in manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, and logistics. For example manufacturing clients are investing heavily in predictive maintenance, quality control, and supply chain analytics; financial services clients seek AI-driven risk assessment, fraud detection, and regulatory compliance tools; healthcare organizations are automating patient engagement, diagnostics, and administrative workflows; and retail and e-commerce projects focus on personalization engines, chatbots, and inventory optimization.

    Across our client base, roughly 40per cent of recent AI projects have been in manufacturing and industrial automation, 25per cent in financial services, 15per cent in healthcare, and the remainder spread across retail, logistics, and professional services. These figures are directional but illustrate where the momentum-and investment-is strongest.

    “AI-driven automation is no longer a “nice to have”-it’s a strategic imperative. Manufacturing, finance, healthcare, retail, energy, and logistics are leading the way because they face acute pressures to optimize, innovate, and adapt. The convergence of accessible AI technologies, cloud infrastructure, and a data-rich environment means that the pace of automation will only accelerate. Companies that embrace AI now are not just improving efficiency-they’re laying the groundwork for entirely new business models and sources of competitive advantage.

    “As we look ahead, the winners will be those who can integrate AI seamlessly into their operations, foster a culture of innovation, and continually adapt to the shifting technological landscape. At Azumo, we’re proud to help our clients navigate this transformation and unlock the full potential of intelligent automation,” Agbai said.

  • Nigerian’s unity under threat, Catholic Bishop warns

    Nigerian’s unity under threat, Catholic Bishop warns

    The Catholic Bishops of Nigeria under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) have expressed deep concern over the country’s deepening divisions, attributing the crisis to weak leadership, ethnic tensions, and religious discord.  

    Bishop of Lafia Diocese and Episcopal Chairman of Social Communications, Most Rev. David Ajang, raised the alarm while addressing reporters on Sunday in Abuja after the 2025 Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Communications Week.

    Ajang warned that Nigeria’s unity is at risk unless urgent steps are taken to foster inclusivity and good governance.

    Read Also: Five budget-friendly Android phones under ₦100,000 in Nigeria

     He lamented the growing polarisation along ethnic and religious lines, stating that Nigerians can now easily discern a speaker’s regional or religious affiliation simply by their perspective. 

    “Nobody can deny the fact that Nigeria is divided today. Carry out an experiment: Listen to the news, close your eyes, and when you hear a perspective, you can guess where the person comes from. That is how divided we are,” he said.

  • Blending Swiss innovation with Nigeria’s vibrancy, creativity

    Blending Swiss innovation with Nigeria’s vibrancy, creativity

    A unique platform to highlight and celebrate the dynamism in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria is here. Powered by Swiss-based Nigerian super model and professional make-up artist Stella Oganwu, the ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition,’ themed: “Bridging Cultures, Defining Trends,” will bring together leading designers, beauty experts, and industry professionals from both countries to showcase their products and services and also recognise talented and creative Nigerians. Stella, who is the CEO of Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, an upscale beauty and fashion firm, shares the inspiring story of her exploits in the modeling, beauty and fashion space with Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA

    Barring any last minute changes, the ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition,’ aimed at celebrating the dynamism in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria will hold in Maryland, Lagos, Nigeria, on Thursday, July 3rd 2025.

    The landmark event will bring together the sophistication of Swiss fashion with the bold vibrancy of Nigerian design in an unforgettable showcase of global creativity while supporting the less privileged ones in the society and recognising talented and creative persons around Nigeria.

    The high-profile even is on the beehive of Swiss-based Nigerian super model and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, a beauty and fashion firm, Stella Oganwu, whose professional experience is mainly in the areas of customer service and advice for cosmetics, perfumery, and hair-styling.

    Stella, a professional make-up artist, told The Nation that the event which objective is to foster cultural exchange and collaboration between Switzerland and Nigeria, will also provide the platform for Swiss and Nigerian beauty and fashion brands to showcase their products and services.

    It will bring together leading designers, beauty experts, and industry professionals from both countries and recognise all creatives and talented people (models, hairstylists, make-up artists, dancers, singers, comedians, photographers, videographers, creative directors, project managers, fashion Designers etc.).

    Giving more insights into the event, Stella informed The Nation that the exhibition will feature fashion shows, showcasing the latest collections of Nigerian designers; beauty demonstrations & workshops, featuring Stelwith_Class Cosmetics’ innovative products and techniques, as well as insights from Nigerian beauty experts.

    There will also be exhibition booths displaying a range of beauty and fashion products, accessories, and services; networking sessions to facilitate connections between industry professionals, influencers, and potential customers; and cultural fusion, blending Swiss precision and innovation with Nigerian vibrancy and creativity.

    Stella, who is also a modeling coach, with passion for fashion, styling and accessories, said Switzerland offers Nigeria valuable lessons in economic resilience and political stability through its decentralized federalism.

    She noted that Switzerland’s success stems from its strong federal system that empowers cantons (states) and communes (municipalities), allowing for greater diversity and participation in decision-making.

    The globally acclaimed make-up artist and modeling coach said Nigeria can learn from Switzerland’s model by devolving more power and responsibilities to states and local governments, thereby promoting a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

    She further stated that Nigeria can borrow a leaf from Switzerland’s strong economic and social policies that prioritise education, research, and innovation, creating a highly skilled workforce that drives economic growth. Nigeria, she said, can invest in education and infrastructure to foster innovation, attract foreign investment, and reduce its reliance on oil.

    Also, Nigeria, she said, can draw a lesson from Switzerland’s commitment to rule of law and international cooperation, as Switzerland’s commitment to strict rule of law fosters a stable and predictable environment for businesses and citizens.

    The West-central European country’s active engagement in international cooperation, according to Stella, also fosters partnerships with other countries on various issues, including migration, development, and security.

    She said Nigeria can strengthen her judicial system, combat corruption, and improve law enforcement to create a more stable and trustworthy environment for economic and social development.

    Explaining the event’s charity focus on the less privileged ones, Stella said: “The less privileged children are those that are forgotten and has no voice or care. If you go to the street, you will notice that a lot of children are without homes, parents, clothes and food. The orphans, the disabled and the children on the street are my main focus.

    Read Also: FG intensifies pharmaceutical manufacturing drive, signs MoU with Swiss Academy

    “We will offer them food, clothes, support them in any way we can for shelter by the grace of God. We will do more as God leads us and also from our supporters, sponsors and partners in future. This will take place annually by the grace of God.”

    Women empowerment is no less prioritised by this seasoned beauty and fashion entrepreneur. As she emphasised, “Women need to be heard because I feel their voices are not being heard.

    “Women are very important and they are good leaders too. In our country, they don’t look down on women but give them the chance to lead. We are all human, be it men and women. We all deserve to lead.”

    In this wise, she debunked claims in some quarters that modeling is a vocation laced with immorality, particularly for young ladies. “Modeling is not supposed to be seen in this way because it is a talent and we all have our talent that should not be misunderstood. We have different kinds of modeling e.g. runway, commercial, editorial, fashion, lingerie, petite, plus size, erotic, body part, body painting, swim wear, promotional, mature, fitness and hair models.

    “As a child of God, we can be models in an appropriate way. In all these models’ types, we have our choice to make what suits our talent. My advice to upcoming young models is to follow their dreams and be very careful. Let their parents give them the guidelines they need by working them into the right parts so they don’t get carried away by money.

    “When I say money, I mean the ones that pay very well are those that make people think modeling is immorality. They will pay you so well that at the end you will feel that’s the best, but it’s not because at the end, exposing your body with great pay can’t be erased. It’s forever out there. Choose wisely and be patient, it will pay off no matter how long it takes.”

    A good team player, with an open and radiant personality, Stella, who rose to fame and fortune in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria, sure spoke from experience, having kept her head high and managed to navigate through the rough paths of life despite losing her mother at a tender age.

    “I want to say thanks to God Almighty for always directing my paths and decisions that I make. Life can be rough but understanding the truth of life matters. When things become difficult for you, it’s a push to keep working hard because the best is waiting for you in front by the grace of God and strength,” she said.

    Sharing more success nuggets, Stella said: “Success can’t be achieved without failing, disappointments, mistakes and patience. Anything you get in a rush or in a deceitful way will not last and you can’t see any good coming out from it because it’s not the right way and in the sight of God is not pleasant.

    “You need to be patient, work hard, no matter how challenging it looks, believe God that at his own right time He will show you mercy and you will be surprised. God’s time is the best. It might look very far or long but it is worth waiting by obeying and doing His will.”

    Effortlessly beautiful, conscientious and responsible, Stella is a well-organised beauty and fashion entrepreneur and a model who is able to work independently. A strong believer in her Nigerian heritage and African heritage, she declared: “I love my county, Nigeria. I am a proud Nigerian any day any time.

    “Let’s not forget, home will always be home. No matter where I go, I would have my home as my establishment place by the grace of God.”

    While her up-coming ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition’ will generate significant brand exposure for her Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, it will also create a unique and engaging experience for attendees ultimately, leaving a lasting imprint on the global fashion and beauty map.

  • Nigeria’s uneasy war for control

    Nigeria’s uneasy war for control

    By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

    Nigeria found itself, once again, locked in a fierce tug-of-war between chaos and control, where intelligence, courage, and international cooperation wrestled relentlessly against insurgency, banditry, and political subversion.

    From Borno to Zamfara, and from Abuja to Saudi Arabia, the month of May 2025 unfolded like a geopolitical thriller, marked by harrowing losses, unexpected wins, and a chilling reminder that the war on insecurity and corruption is far from over.

    The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) remained central in Nigeria’s defence architecture, confronting both domestic and transnational threats. May, however, tested its limits. Just as the nation braced for the rainy season, Boko Haram launched a brutal offensive in Borno, overrunning a military base, killing patriotic soldiers, and looting armoury stockpiles. In Zamfara, bandits unleashed yet another reign of terror, sweeping through communities and leaving behind a trail of death, trauma, and devastation.

    In response, the Federal Government, under the leadership of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, mounted a spirited counteroffensive. In Taraba, troops recovered over 1,000 rustled cattle and neutralised two bandits, offering a flicker of hope amid despair. More strategically, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to launch a national Forest Guard initiative was widely welcomed as a forward-thinking move to cut insurgents off from their hideouts.

    Amid this push, stakeholders such as the Centre for Crisis Communication have urged the Federal Government to ensure the new 130,000-strong Forest Guard Corps are adequately trained and equipped before deployment. The call reflects a national consensus that strategy must be backed by structure and support to succeed.

    Read Also: British Deputy High Commissioner visits Rugby School Nigeria

    In a significant breakthrough, Nigerian intelligence operatives, in collaboration with their Saudi Arabian counterparts, tracked and arrested the wife and mother of notorious bandit kingpin Ado Aliero during a pilgrimage in the Holy Land. That Aliero brazenly flew his family abroad while terrorising communities at home was not only criminal but deeply symbolic. His undoing served as a testament to Nigeria’s foreign intelligence capability, demonstrating that the country’s security networks are not only active but respected by international partners.

    This collaboration with Saudi Arabia reinforces the importance of global partnerships, particularly those Nigeria maintains with the United Kingdom and the United States. In the modern security landscape, where threats range from terrorism to cybercrime, international cooperation is not a luxury but a lifeline.

    Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) maintained a high profile throughout the month. On one hand, it was commended for its coordination during high-profile court proceedings involving IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, even as calls for fairness and due process echoed from human rights circles. Yet, controversy arose when DSS operatives reportedly arrested an Edo-based activist over plans to organise a protest in support of Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traore. Civic groups quickly condemned the move, warning against criminalising expressions of Pan-African solidarity.

    Further intensifying the month’s political intrigues, news broke that the DSS had filed a case against political economist Pat Utomi over an alleged plan to form a “shadow government.” While Utomi and his allies argued that the idea was a harmless political concept, others interpreted it as a veiled challenge to President Tinubu’s constitutional mandate. As is often the case in security affairs, the truth remains obscured in the murky middle.

    Elsewhere, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) grabbed public attention with a series of high-profile actions. May opened with the dramatic arrest of controversial online activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, followed by the questioning of socialite E-Money, actress Iyabo Ojo, and comedian AY over alleged naira mutilation. While the commission defended its actions as part of a deterrence campaign to uphold currency integrity, critics were quick to dismiss the move as selective activism and publicity-driven enforcement.

    The EFCC’s perceived sluggishness on weightier corruption cases involving figures like Betta Edu and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello further fuelled public skepticism. Many began to wonder: are we witnessing a genuine war on graft or merely a performative spectacle?

    Nonetheless, the commission achieved some notable successes. It recovered significant sums from the CBEX fraud case and handed over 750 duplexes to the Ministry of Housing—an act that showed real assets, not just headlines, are being reclaimed from looters. But the deeper concern persists: as the 2027 elections approach, the EFCC must resist the temptation to act as a political tool. The public is watching—and so is history.

    In contrast, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) continued its quieter, methodical approach. While it may not dominate the news cycle, the ICPC intensified its efforts through partnerships and grassroots engagements. In May, it collaborated with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and schools across Osun State to promote transparency and anti-corruption values. The agency also joined forces with professional associations and government bodies to amplify its preventive campaigns.

    A notable enforcement action involved dragging Access Bank to court over an alleged money laundering case, signaling that the ICPC is willing to hold even powerful financial institutions accountable. Furthermore, the commission reiterated its commitment to recovering proceeds of crime stashed overseas, pledging to work with international bodies to trace and return stolen assets for national development. While its pace may seem slower, the ICPC’s systemic, long-term approach could yield deeper institutional reforms.

    As Nigeria moves into June, the stakes remain high. It is imperative for ONSA, DSS, EFCC, ICPC, and all relevant security agencies to stay alert, remain ethical, and remain unwavering in their pursuit of justice. The real question is no longer who is fighting—but who is willing to finish the fight.

    •Abiodun –   exponentumera@gmail.com

  • House of Reps sympathises with Niger govt over flood in Mokwa

    House of Reps sympathises with Niger govt over flood in Mokwa

    The House of Representatives Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness has extended its heartfelt condolences to the people of Niger State, especially those impacted by the devastating flood disaster in Mokwa town, Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State.

    Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, Chairman, House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, said this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

    Bassey, who represents Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency in the House, said the recent flood, which occurred on May 29, 2025, has brought immense suffering and loss to the good people of Mokwa. 

    The release further stated that the floodwaters submerged several parts of the town, killing at least 159 people, injuring 11, and leaving many missing. 

    The destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure has left many without shelter, food, or access to basic necessities.

    “As the Chairman of the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, I want to assure the people of Niger State that we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives.

    Read Also: Niger govt receives over N203m, rice donations for Mokwa flood victims

    “We commend the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), for its swift and comprehensive response to the recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State. NEMA has provided critical relief materials, medical care, and shelter to the affected communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to humanitarian support. This prompt intervention has been crucial in alleviating the suffering of thousands displaced by the disaster.

    “We emphasize the need for enhanced preparedness measures to mitigate the impact of future disasters, including infrastructure development and community education.

    “We appreciate the efforts of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other stakeholders working tirelessly to rescue those affected and provide relief materials.

    “Let us come together as a nation to support our brothers and sisters in Niger State during this challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families”, the release stated.

  • CEMESO urges united action against plastic pollution in Nigeria

    CEMESO urges united action against plastic pollution in Nigeria

    The Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO) has joined global voices in calling for urgent and sustained action to tackle the plastic crisis endangering Nigeria’s urban centers, rural areas, ecosystems, and future generations.

    Speaking in commemoration of World Environment Day, CEMESO’s Executive Director, Dr. Akin Akingbulu, urged government authorities, private sector stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the media to strengthen collaborative efforts to curb plastic pollution nationwide.

    Dr. Akingbulu emphasized that World Environment Day should mark a pivotal moment for environmental reform, responsibility, and long-term commitment to sustainability.

    “World Environment Day, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), serves as a global platform for advocacy and action on environmental challenges. The 2025 observance highlights one of the most pressing issues of our time: plastic pollution. With over 400 million tonnes of plastic produced globally each year and a significant portion ending up in landfills, rivers, and oceans, the call to action has never been more urgent.

    “In Nigeria, the realities are sobering. The country generates approximately 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, ranking among the top contributors to plastic pollution globally. Shockingly, over 88% of this plastic waste is not recycled, often ending up in drainage systems, public spaces, and coastal waters,” he said.

    Dr Akingbulu observed that urban centres like Lagos face mounting plastic waste that clogs waterways and contributes to flooding and public health crises. Meanwhile, rural areas and oil-producing communities, especially in the Niger Delta, endure decades of pollution from extractive activities, worsening the degradation of natural ecosystems.

    He said that CEMESO acknowledges the recent steps taken by the Nigerian government, including the adoption of the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management, the announcement of a 2025 nationwide ban on single-use plastics, and the push for Extended Producer Responsibility to hold manufacturers accountable.

    However, the success of these policies depends on effective implementation, enforcement, and broad-based public awareness.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in the global effort to end plastic pollution. While the government has made laudable commitments, implementation must be swift, inclusive, and rooted in the realities of urban and rural Nigeria,” said Dr Akin Akingbulu.

    Read Also: IPC, EU, CEMESO train 50 Imo journalists on effective reporting

    “This is a moment for shared responsibility. From policymakers to producers, media professionals to school children, everyone must play a role. Let us not wait until our rivers, farms, and future are permanently choked by plastic.”

    He therefore called on the Federal Government to ensure full enforcement of the single-use plastics ban by 2025 and expand support for recycling and circular economy initiatives.

    State and local governments to invest in waste management infrastructure and public education campaigns.

    He also urged the media to amplify environmental education and promote behavioural change and civil society and the private sector to innovate and collaborate on sustainable packaging alternatives.

    Dr Akingbulu noted that there was the need to move from pollution to solution, expressing optimism that together, we can beat plastic pollution and secure a cleaner, healthier Nigeria for generations to come.

  • NESREA to launch digital waste marketplace to drive circular economy in Nigeria

    NESREA to launch digital waste marketplace to drive circular economy in Nigeria

    The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) is set to launch Waste Marketplace Nigeria, a digital platform aimed at transforming waste transactions in the country and advancing the circular economy agenda.

    The initiative, developed in partnership with Recyclestack, aligns with Nigeria’s implementation of the Circular Economy under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme, which mandates producers to take responsibility for their products throughout their lifecycle.

    The EPR programme is active in sectors including food and beverages, batteries, used tyres, and electrical electronics, with Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), recyclers, and waste collectors playing key roles along the value chain.

    In a statement signed by NESREA’s Assistant Director of Press, Nwamaka Ejiofor, the agency’s Director General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, described the platform as a transformative tool that will digitize Nigeria’s waste economy, promote regulation and accountability, and empower local communities economically.

    Read Also: NESREA tackles improper chemical waste management

    “This platform supports our commitment to tackling environmental challenges through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships,” Barikor said. “Waste Marketplace Nigeria will promote digital inclusion, create jobs in the informal sector, boost material recovery, reduce illegal dumping, and improve recycling rates nationwide.”

    “The platform targets to onboard at least 10,000 verified users within the first four months, and by serving as a data mining source in waste management, it will strengthen compliance and enforcement of environmental standards. The project will kick off in Lagos and Abuja, with subsequent rollout in major cities across the country.”

    Barikor assured that this joint initiative between NESREA and Recyclestack is well-positioned to formalise the sector, create inclusive green jobs, drive investments and ensure environmental compliance. It is also in line with the National Development Goals and will serve as a model for other African countries.

  • Nigeria to host West Africa economic summit in June 2025 – Tuggar

    Nigeria to host West Africa economic summit in June 2025 – Tuggar

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has announced Nigeria’s readiness to host the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) from June 20 to 21, 2025, at the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC).

    In a statement on Tuesday, Tuggar said the summit, themed *“West Africa Economic Summit: Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region,” will serve as a strategic platform for shaping the region’s economic future.

    He said WAES 2025 will convene Heads of State, Ministers, private sector leaders, development partners, and youth innovators from across West Africa and beyond.

    “As a government, we recognise that sustainable development, peace, and prosperity in West Africa are best achieved through enhanced regional cooperation and economic integration. WAES 2025 reflects this conviction,” Tuggar stated.

    The Minister described the summit as a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to the ECOWAS vision of a borderless, peaceful, and economically integrated West Africa. He added that the initiative aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    WAES 2025 will focus on key areas such as cross-border trade and logistics, regional macroeconomic stability, value chain development, and strengthened institutional cooperation, peace, and governance.

    Tuggar noted that the summit is a solutions-driven initiative aimed at creating a harmonised trade policy framework to eliminate barriers to intra-African commerce and investment.

    He added that WAES 2025 also seeks to mobilise resources for critical infrastructure, energy, and logistics; improve the free movement of goods and people; promote inclusive economic growth—particularly for women, youth, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs); and bolster economic resilience through innovation, institutional reforms, and strategic global partnerships.

    Read Also: Why ECOWAS is marking 50th anniversary in Lagos, by Tuggar

    The minister stated, “Will feature Presidential Roundtable and CEO Forum. A high-level dialogue between Heads of State and business leaders, culminating in a Joint Communiqué that articulates shared regional priorities and a concrete plan of action.

    The summit Tuggar further said will provide a platform for Business-to-Government (B2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) transactions aimed at securing landmark investment deals across strategic sectors including infrastructure, agribusiness, renewable energy, and digital finance.

    He also disclosed that there will be an exhibition of over 100 investment-ready SMEs and regional development projects, fostering cross-border business linkages and reinforcing the role of the private sector in advancing the AfCFTA.

    The youths are not left out of the summit, as the minister stated.

    He pointed out that the Youth and Cultural Empowerment Series will be accommodated in the event.

    “Events such as the West Africa Art Exhibition, Innovation Pitch, and Youth Leadership Panels will showcase the region’s rich creative energy and the ingenuity of our youth,” the minister said.

  • Why I may not raise my kids in Nigeria, by Falz

    Why I may not raise my kids in Nigeria, by Falz

    Renowned rapper and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has expressed uncertainty about raising his children in Nigeria.

    He shared the thoughts on a recent episode of the Dear Ife Series Podcast, hosted by Ifedayo Agoro.

    When asked if he would raise children in Nigeria, Falz admitted the question was unexpected, adding that he hadn’t thought deeply about it.

    Falz, who remains hopeful about the nation’s future has been outspoken about Nigeria’s socio-political problems through his music.

    Read Also: Falz sparks backlash after claiming ‘Fornication is not a sin’

    The host asked: “Would you raise your children in Nigeria if you were going to have any?”

    Falz replied: “Ah! That’s a deep question. I didn’t expect to here this question. I haven’t really thought that far, let me not lie.

    “But it’s something that I can’t actually said ‘yes’ to.

    “It’s something I cannot outrightly say ‘yes’ to. And it’s so sad. But I can’t also outrightly say ‘no’ because I’m pro-Nigerian and I really believe that we can actually get it right. But I don’t know, I don’t know, but let’s see”.

  • IOCs not exiting Nigeria, says Presidency

    IOCs not exiting Nigeria, says Presidency

    The Presidency has said contrary to views in certain quarters, the International Oil Companies (IOCs) are not leaving the country.

    It said the oil companies are rather rebalancing and refocusing on deep water.

    The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Abuja.

    Mrs. Verheijen, who was speaking on the second-year anniversary of the Tinubu administration, noted that while the IOCs are rebalancing, the Nigerian independents (local players) are taking the lead in the onshore subsector.

    “Indigenous firms are gaining capacity. They have community credibility. In the long term, we expect them to scale regionally and globally,” she said.

    Verheijen said the growing capacity of indigenous firms is evident in their ability to acquire divested assets from IOC.

    The presidential aide said the country attained an increase in indigenous equity in gas, from 69 per cent to 83 per cent.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s university system in distress

    She urged African investors, DFIs, banks, pension funds, and sovereigns, to be strategic in focus, and strive to fill the vacuum left by international oil.

    Verheijen also urged industry leaders across Africa to take a cue from Nigeria by ensuring that the continent moves beyond appeals for support and becomes an investment destination.

    Commenting on the legacy she would leave behind, Verheijen said she would like to see more Nigerians have energy, high-paying jobs and the capacity not only to diversify and grow the economy but compete favourably globally.

    “I am committed to institutional reforms that endure, that ensure that we remain and continue to grow as an investment-grade country,

    “I am also committed to transparency, demonstrable results, life-transforming results, that we’re not going to be just energy-rich but that we’re going to be energy-secured and globally competitive,” she said.