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Nigeria Born First African UNESCO Laureate Appointed Top London Scholar as a Professor for Crown University Intl. Chartered Inc, in USA

Dr Vipin Nadda Senior Lecturer Programme Manager {BSc (Top Up) International Tourism & Hospitality Management} Programme Manager {BA (Hons) Events and Entertainment Management} Programme Manager {FDA-Tourism & Events} University of Sunderland in London

He has been actively involved in collaborative research and consultancy across various domains. A few of these collaborative researchers being from University of Wolverhampton, London Southbank University, Central university India, Chandigarh University India, St Mary’s university London, West London university, Oxford brook university and University of Wroclaw Poland and University of Colombo Shree Lanka etc. These collaborations have considerably helped in sharing knowledge, resources, experiences, and developing networks amongst all participants.

As part of the consultancy projects, He worked with Bangladesh Paryatan board through the Bangladesh Embassy in London to develop sustainable marketing strategy for National Tourism Development body. Also, as an advisor for Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council (UNAccc), a leading Indian Public Policy Think Tank and Research Institute for sustainable development, He is supporting in creating transferrable skills in India. Further,

He has helped in the development of Curriculum for Dubai Examination Board through University of East London and developed Tourism and Hospitality Management programme for Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality, London. These projects have considerably improved the profile of these organisations and provided me opportunities to contribute to the development of tourism and education in different parts of the world in line with the sustainable development agenda of united nations.

He has provided PhD supervision to scores of students who have been awarded PhD in UK, India and Poland.I am External Examiner with St. Mary’s University, London for /BSc/MSc courses, and Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality – (CTH) London UG/PG diploma programmes and for PhD/DBA students in Universität Wrocławski Wroclaw Poland.

Je has been co-organiser for 5th International Conference (Virtual) on Entrepreneurship Management Innovation and Development, on 16th December 2023. London, UK and Coming out of a Pandemic: Lesson Learnt, Innovative Teaching & Learning Insights, in 2022 at University of Sunderland in London and Chaired conference session at International Academic Research Conference ICBTS 2022 in Munich and 2023 in Oxford by Suan Sunandha Rajabhat San Sugandha university Bangkok Thailand. These conferences provide an excellent platform to the students, researchers,preactitioners,entreprenurs and businesses to share their innovative ideas, initiatives, opinions and latest research along with the challenges, opportunities and their success stories which not only motivated the generations but encouraged them to contribute to the sustainable development of the societies across the world.

Currently He is also working as Co-Editor-in-Chief of International Journal for Entrepreneurship Management Innovation and Development (IJ-EMID); Guest Editor for Sustainability Journal in 2024; reviewer for International Journal of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Tourism Analysis: An Interdisciplinary Journal; IGI-Global Publishing Co.; International Journal Hospitality Tourism Research and Journal of Global Hospitality and

Tourism. As an Editorial board Member, He associated with Journal of International Business and Management (JIBM); International Tourism and Hospitality Journal (ITHJ) and Member of Centre for Research in Tourism Excellence, University of Sunderland. He also support research as Academic Advisory committee Member St. Soldier Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, Jalandhar India, Research Panel member, GNA University, Phagwara India and Chandigarh University India and advisory board member of British graduate college Poland. These opportunities have helped him to enhance his knowledge, expertise and hence contributed to enhance the quality of research by mentoring his peers and students.

His research areas of interest are Sustainable planning and development, Strategic management, and Global Business Environment. He has taught and supported students in a way to take theory from classroom to the real world to enhance their learning experience. The field trips to the destinations like Brighton for sustainability and Olympics park, East London for regeneration of the destination etc. Gastronomy trips to China town and Barcelona for sustainable development are only a few to mention. Further, some of the lectures were delivered at Marriott West India Quay and Crowne Plaza Docklands hotel in Canary Wharf to observe and learn about the service quality practices in the actual scenario. This has ensured a real-life simulated student experience during their learning journey to the workplace to develop their employability skills to undertake work post-education.

Throughout his academic experience, he has worked actively on the development of the sustainable curriculum at different levels of programs. This has meant evaluating the current provision at the workplace and identifying the current industry trends and embedding them into the subject areas to ensure there is continuous improvement. One of the most important elements of this process was identifying the strategic direction of the subject areas to ensure that they are innovative in their design against our competitors. Upon the identification of these it has meant working extensively with internal and external providers and development of new and existing areas through the writing of, validation, and implementation of such programs within the subject area.

As being research active, he has been published articles in various peer reviewed journals, edited/authored books, presented papers in the international conferences and authored chapters on topics like, Sustainable Perspective of Providers about Glamping Tourism in the United Kingdom, Managing Change and Strategic Thinking, Sustain-modification-of-GypsiesCulture-in-Moldova-region-of-Romania,Sustainable Development Goals Advancement Through Digital Innovation, Inclusive community development through tourism and hospitality practices, Impact of Sustainable Practices on Employee’s Performance, Business Sustainability Through Innovation and Creativity in the Service Sector, Ecotourism as a trigger for Economic Development, Enhancing learning experience through sustainable digital strategy- Challenges and opportunities of UoSiL students from diverse community backgrounds,’ Entrepreneurs to Consciouspreneur- realizing UN sustainable development Goals through core values and ‘Meaningful Tourism etc.

In the last few years, he have mentored several colleagues to enhance their research activity, having held several meetings with them and by giving them useful suggestions to progress their academic career utilising a more research-informed path. Further, he supported some of his colleagues to develop their research proposals and now they are pursuing PhD and Prof.Doc. Studies.

Similarly, He has been have mentored as an co-authored conference papers and research articles with his students because of which many of them are doing PhD/DBA from UK Universities (University of Essex) and overseas (Poland) and some of them are working as lecturers (Assistant Professor in Yorkville University Canada), entrepreneur running own glamping tourism based company( in Russia),Director of tourism sustainability firm in London and as an administrative director in Nigeria to mention a few.

About the Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu
The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu, a Nigerian academic who has been served some of the Nigeria Universities as Chairman Accreditation Panel appointed by National Universities Commission Abuja, Nigeria as a professor of computer science and Information and Communication Technology who specializes in Biometric Technology Security System.
He is Chartered Member Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN) a government regulated Agency for Computer Science and Information Technology

He’s a First African UNESCO Laureate Ratified by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Centre Central and South America with Reg. Arg. 22/LT-19 and Published with ISBN 978-1571-7412-6 along with Global Golden Medal and Global Golden Certificate with other support as Prizes from UNESCO for His Outstanding Global Contribution on Education and other activities world wide, He is also serving as a Vice-Chancellor of Crown University International Chartered Inc in USA a global recognized University that operates on-sites of its official partners in the government regulated universities world wide and on-line operations.

He also holds various positions globally.
Some of his notable achievements include

Awards and Recognition:

He received Certificate of Recognition as Scholar , Global Leader, Educator, from Fundamental Baptist School of Theology and Texas Baptist Bible College USA and Baptist Ministerial Advocates of Philippines Inc.
He was Honored with the Title of Olu Omo of Oodua Youth Parliament in collaboration with Nigerian Youth Council
2023 was conferred a royal tittle as His Royal Highness Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis of Singapore

Global PHILANTHROPIST Award by eSkillGrow Virtual University

Global ICON Award, entering Bengal Book of Records

Global Outstanding Professor Award as “5 Stars Professor” and others world wide

Academic Credentials:

Quadruple Post-Doctoral Degrees from reputable institutions

PhD in Computer Science and Information Technology

Honorary Doctor Degree of Higher Education and International Relations

Leadership Roles:

Vice-Chancellor of Crown University International Chartered Inc

Chairman, Board of Trustees and Chief Patron of Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council (UNAccc)

Global Secretary, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization.

And Chairman Board of Trustees of Africa Information Technology Consultancy Regd with Government of Nigeria
Chairman Board of Trustees of West Coast International University of Science Technology Management and Arts USA and Chairman Board of Trustees of Chartered Int’l Da Vinci University USA, Chairman Board of Trustees of University of Nations for Quality Education Mexico
Chairman Board of Trustees of Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Int’l Foundation Inc in USA and associates world wide
Chairman Board of Trustees of Chartered World Institute of Encyclopedia of The Books in USA
World Grand President of International Chartered World Learned Society USA
World Grand Chancellor of the Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace USA
World Grand President of Africa International Institute of Professional Training and Research and others world wide
Chairman Board of Trustees of World Accreditation Commission USA an official partner of UNESCO, Association of Asia Universities and Pacific and others world wide
Prof. Aremu has also authored several books and articles, including “Environmental Information Sciences” and “Future of Machine Learning”.

He was appointed as a Founding Member Governing Council of Mewar International University New Karu Via Abuja Nigeria ( The First India University in Africa)
He was recently involved in unveiling the new logo of Minaret University Ikirun Osun State Nigeria, where he serves as a Founding Member of the Board of Trustees

Hamza Ibrahim Baba Embarks on Strategic Courtesy Visits to Boost GEEP Collaboration

Emmanuel Daudu

The newly appointed National Programme Manager of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Hamza Ibrahim Baba, has begun his tenure with high-level courtesy visits aimed at forging strategic partnerships to strengthen the implementation of the programme under the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA).

In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr. Baba visited the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaibe Said, on Tuesday in Abuja. The discussions focused on potential collaboration to support grassroots women through the GEEP’s Trader Moni initiative, with an emphasis on financial inclusion and empowerment at the community level.

Baba also held talks with the Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), H.E. Silas Agara, to identify avenues for joint efforts in empowering vulnerable groups and fostering entrepreneurship nationwide.

Both officials commended Baba’s swift and strategic outreach, describing his actions as a promising start toward strengthening social investment efforts across sectors. They reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with GEEP to deliver meaningful impact to underserved populations.

Nigeria Advancing Towards Self-Reliance in Military Hardware- Defence Minister Badaru

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria is making steady progress toward achieving self-reliance in military hardware production, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has declared.

The Minister made this known at the conclusion of a two-day working visit to key military institutions in Kaduna State, where he assessed advancements in military training and indigenous hardware production. The facilities visited included the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), the Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot (CED), Buffalo Engineering Technical Services Limited (BETSL), and the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT).

Accompanied by senior military officials including Major General M.L.D. Saraso, General Officer Commanding 1 Division; Major General A.K. Ibrahim, Commandant of NDA; and Air Vice Marshal Sani Labaran Rabe, Commandant of AFIT the Minister inspected ongoing work on military assets and engaged with military personnel.

Speaking to journalists after the visits, Badaru praised the Armed Forces for their increasing capacity in local manufacturing and refurbishment of military hardware. He noted that the transition from foreign procurement to local production is vital for Nigeria’s security and strategic autonomy.

“The ongoing efforts in training, local production, and refurbishment of military assets are commendable,” the Minister said. “I saw firsthand the capabilities in repairing and upgrading damaged Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, tanks, and Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs). New platforms, including Buffalo APCs, bulletproof glass, spare parts, and surveillance UAVs, are being developed locally some already deployed to active operations.”

He emphasized the critical role of training, research, development, and innovation (RDI) in enhancing operational efficiency and called for stronger collaboration between military institutions and increased investment in local defence technologies.

The Minister also highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence sector.

He referenced the recent signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill into law, which is aimed at empowering the local production and supply of arms and military equipment.

Badaru stressed the importance of sustained support for institutions like NDA, AFIT, CED, and BETSL in developing a skilled, self-sufficient, and technologically capable military force.

CCYF backs Pastor David Ibieyome, warns against distortion of the gospel for clout – Paul

The concerned christian youth forum (CCYF) has thrown its weight and fully supports the message credited to revered cleric, pastor David Ibiyeomie of salvation minitries international about online bloggers and content creators who twist christian messages for their selfish gains and warns against distortion of the gospel for clout.

In statement made available to Journalist, the convener Paul James Adama said, “The attention of the Concerned Christian Youth Forum has been drawn to a statement by one of our Fathers of Faith, Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministry International—a global ministry headquartered in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In his statement, he declared that the twisting of his messages to suit content creation, thereby drawing criticism against him and the church, will no longer be tolerated, and that whoever is involved will face consequences henceforth”.

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum stands firmly behind this decision, as we recognize the immense harm caused by the unscrupulous practices of these content creators.

Let it be known that the twisted narratives and false allegations spread by these individuals are far from the truth. Our Christian leaders are men and women of integrity who have dedicated their lives to serving God and the body of Christ worldwide. They do not deserve to be targets of such slanderous attacks.

This disturbing trend of malicious publications by bloggers and content creators—fueled by greed and shameless tactics to monetize misinformation and discord—has become a serious issue that must be addressed with utmost urgency by the Federal Government.

The time has come to put an end to this deceitful enterprise that seeks to undermine our beliefs and values.

We call on the public to exercise caution when consuming online content and to be wary of those who seek to profit from misinformation.

We, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, will continue to support efforts to eradicate this abuse and ensure that our faith is protected from such malicious acts.

Together, we stand ready to combat this nefarious practice, he emphasized.

FRC Chairman Seeks Lawmaker’s Support for Amendment of Fiscal Responsibility Act

Maryam Aminu

The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako Esq., has called on Honourable Osita Okere, member representing Owerri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, to support the ongoing amendment of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007 currently under review at the National Assembly.

Hon. Okere made a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Asokoro, Abuja, where he commended the achievements of the FRC under Muruako’s leadership. Describing the Chairman as an “outstanding leader and administrator,” he cited Muruako’s previous public service roles, including Chairman of Owerri West Local Government and National Legal Adviser of the Association of Local Government Employees of Nigeria.

“I’m not surprised by the Commission’s positive performance under your watch,” Hon. Okere said. “You’ve always been a goal-getter and achiever. I have no doubt that you’ll continue to deliver impressively in your current role.”

In his remarks, Muruako expressed appreciation for the visit and highlighted the Commission’s statutory responsibilities as outlined in the FRA, 2007. These include the preparation of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), setting of fiscal objectives, public debt management, ensuring macroeconomic stability, and overseeing the prudent management of public funds.

He further outlined the Commission’s mandate to promote transparency and accountability through the monitoring and evaluation of government budgets and projects, the verification of capital projects nationwide, and the enforcement of sanctions for non-compliance with fiscal regulations.

“The Fiscal Responsibility Act is due for an update to strengthen our institutional framework and enhance fiscal governance across all levels of government,” Muruako stated. “We believe your support in the legislative process will be crucial in driving this much-needed reform.”

Both leaders emphasized the need for stronger legislative backing to improve Nigeria’s fiscal management system.

First African UNESCO Laureate, Prof Aremu Unveils New Logo For Institute

The First African UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, has unveiled the logo of Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies.

The Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies is duly registered, approved by Federal Ministry of Education and incorporated in Nigeria under authority of Federal Government of Nigeria with Certificate No. RC 1417303.

The Institution exists to promote professionalism, integrity, competency, education, fostering of research practice and encouragement of collaboration in the field of Forensic Sciences & Global Studies.

Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies is an academic or research organization focused on Forensic Sciences and Global Studies. With registration and approval from the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria, it operates with legitimacy.

Prof. Aremu has served some of the Nigeria Universities as Chairman Accreditation Panel appointed by National Universities Commission Abuja, Nigeria as a professor of computer science and Information and Communication Technology who specializes in Biometric Technology Security System.

He is Chartered Member Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN) a government regulated Agency for Computer Science and Information Technology

Italy Deepens Diplomatic and Cultural Ties with Nigeria at 79th Republic Day Celebration

Maryam Aminu

Italy’s Acting Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to stronger bilateral ties with Nigeria during a reception hosted in Abuja to commemorate the 79th anniversary of Italy’s Republic Day.

The event, held on Sunday evening, brought together senior Nigerian officials, diplomats, business executives, and cultural figures to celebrate the establishment of the Italian Republic and reflect on the longstanding Italy–Nigeria partnership.

Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador Foti emphasized the strategic and cultural bonds shared by both countries, noting that diplomatic relations between Italy and Nigeria have remained active and productive since their formal establishment in 1960.

The envoy welcoming guest to the national day celebration.

“Our two countries are linked not only by trade and diplomacy but also by shared values, cultural affinities, and people-to-people connections,” he said.

The envoy lauded the Nigerian people’s resilience and entrepreneurial energy, describing Nigeria as a country of immense diversity and potential.

He also paid tribute to the Italian community in Nigeria, many of whom have lived and worked in the country for decades, contributing to its development in areas such as construction, food production, design, technology, and fashion.

“To my fellow Italians in Nigeria — you have represented our nation with distinction,” Foti said. “You have helped build, manufacture, innovate and integrate, and we are proud of your contributions.”

Highlighting cultural diplomacy as a major pillar of the relationship, the ambassador pointed out that both countries boast globally influential creative industries, from Nollywood and Nigerian music to Italy’s fashion, film, and art sectors.

He also identified academic exchanges and cultural collaborations as growth areas in Italy–Nigeria relations, noting that Nigeria now hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community in Europe after the United States and the United Kingdom.

Ambassador Foti called for stronger multilateral cooperation on global issues, including climate change, migration, and human security areas where both countries have played active roles, particularly through international forums such as the United Nations and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

Referencing Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Foti spoke about the importance of breaking stereotypes in global narratives: “As she said, the danger of the single story is that it is incomplete. Italy and Nigeria are far more complex, far more connected, and far more promising than one story could ever capture.”

He concluded by thanking Nigerian authorities for their continued support and expressed optimism about future partnerships.

“Let this day remind us that diplomacy is not just protocol it’s people, values, and vision. Long live the friendship between Italy and Nigeria.”

Armed Forces of Nigeria Announce Significant Security Gains

Emmanuel Daudu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, has announced notable progress in ongoing military operations across the country throughout May 2025.

Speaking to the press, Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the military’s unwavering commitment to national security, the protection of citizens, and transparency with the public.

According to Maj Gen Kangye, the Armed Forces conducted both kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at neutralizing security threats and creating a safe environment for economic activities.

He praised the professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication of the troops, highlighting their courage in confronting complex and evolving threats across various regions.

In the Niger Delta, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE reportedly prevented oil theft amounting to over ₦1.05 billion. The troops recovered more than 853,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 214,000 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO), 5,785 litres of kerosene (DPK), and 2,650 litres of petrol (PMS). Additionally, over 97 illegal refining sites and 488 items of equipment were destroyed. Other recovered items included pumping and drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and 23 vehicles.

Across all theatres of operation, security forces recovered a wide array of weaponry including automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, machine guns, locally fabricated weapons, improvised explosive devices, and large quantities of ammunition.

In the North-East, troops operating under Operation HADIN KAI reported the surrender of dozens of ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters, including women and children, as pressure intensified. Offensive operations conducted in Borno and Yobe States led to the elimination of several terrorists and the rescue of 16 kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered various arms and explosives, as well as fuel containers and motorcycles.

Security forces arrested 23 suspected terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers during coordinated operations in several communities across Borno and Yobe States. Items recovered included IED-making materials, armored cables, grains, fertilizers, and mobile phones. Cash totalling over ₦550,000 was also seized.

In the North-West, Operation FASAN YAMMA troops engaged terrorists in Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. Over 100 kidnapped victims were rescued through a non-kinetic approach. The troops recovered weapons, ammunition, hand grenades, vehicles, handheld radios, and motorcycles.

Responding to intelligence on terrorist activity in Danmusa, Matazu, and Sabon Birni LGAs, troops neutralized several threats and rescued four additional kidnapped victims.

Meanwhile, in the North Central region, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN carried out successful offensives in Plateau and Kaduna States. Several extremists were neutralized, six suspects were arrested, and one kidnap victim was rescued.

Acting on a tip-off, troops also arrested 20 suspected criminals in Kaduna State and conducted anti-kidnapping operations that led to the recovery of arms, motorcycles, and livestock.

Under Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops reported significant successes across Taraba, Kogi, Ondo, and Benue States. Combat operations led to the death of extremists, the arrest of 14 suspects, and the rescue of 32 kidnapped individuals. Several terrorist camps and motorcycles were also destroyed.

In a joint effort with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), troops intercepted two suspected gunrunners in Abuja. Additional arrests were made in Nasarawa, Benue, and Edo States, where suspects were found in possession of weapons, mobile phones, and vehicles.

In the South-East, Operation UDO KA sustained offensive momentum against violent separatist groups. Troops engaged terrorists in Abia and Enugu States, arresting five suspects and rescuing five kidnapped victims. Arms, IED-making materials, and mobile phones were recovered. In a raid on a terrorist camp in Abia State, troops seized automatic weapons, laptops, CCTV devices, motorcycles, and large sums of local and foreign currency, including ₦11.7 million and $27,000.

Troops also recovered arms and ammunition during an anti-kidnapping operation in Imo State, and arrested six suspects across Imo and Abia States. Among items seized were Biafran currency, more than 50 ATM cards, and motorcycles.

Back in the Niger Delta, troops continued to dismantle illegal refining sites and equipment. In one week alone, more than 289,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 346,000 litres of illegally refined diesel were recovered. Sixty-five suspects were apprehended, and various weapons, including water gel explosives, were seized.

Maj Gen Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to peace, security, and transparency.

He noted the complexities of modern warfare and acknowledged the bravery of Nigerian troops.

He assured the public that security forces would continue to provide timely updates while maintaining the confidentiality necessary for operational success.

“Our troops remain vigilant, adaptable, and determined to overcome any challenge. We are grateful for the public’s support as we work towards restoring peace in every troubled region,” he said.

National Senior Citizens Centre Welcomes New Director General

Emmanuel Daudu

The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) witnessed a pivotal transition in leadership yesterday as Mrs. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe officially assumed office as the new Director General. The handover ceremony, held at the NSCC headquarters in Abuja, marked the formal departure of Dr. Emem Omokaro, the Centre’s pioneer Director General.

In a heartfelt farewell address, Dr. Omokaro reflected on her tenure, describing it as a period of foundational transformation, marked by numerous policy innovations and strategic collaborations to improve the lives of Nigeria’s elderly population. “It was four years of pioneering initiatives and transformative partnerships, all aimed at enhancing the well-being and dignity of older persons across the country,” she said.

Mrs. Akinyemi-Obe, in her inaugural remarks, expressed deep respect for the achievements of her predecessor and committed to building upon the solid foundation already laid. “Dr. Omokaro has raised the bar. I intend to draw from her wealth of experience and further advance the Centre’s mandate to ensure older citizens are supported, engaged, and empowered,” she stated.

Among the key programmes highlighted were the expansion of the geriatric care industry, the Elder Justice Campaign, the innovative “One Community, One Senior Centre” model, the Senior-Led Multipurpose Cooperative Scheme, the Continuing Engagement Bureau, and the launch of the Multipurpose Identity Card Initiative.

Mrs. Akinyemi-Obe emphasized the urgent need for sustained funding to bring these initiatives to scale. “Adequate budgetary allocation is critical if we are to actualize the Centre’s goals,” she appealed.

Group photograph with NSCC-NBTE trainees

A notable segment of the event was an interactive session involving both the outgoing and incoming Directors General and participants from the ongoing NSCC-NBTE training program for Quality Assurance Assessors in Geriatric Social Care.

The ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Hon. Lanre Okunlola, Member of the House of Representatives representing Surulere II and a member of the Committee on Disabilities, as well as Hon. Abiodun Yinusa, Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture.

FRC Chairman Urges Greater Transparency, Accountability Across All Government Levels

Maryam Aminu

The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, has called for stricter adherence to the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 across all levels of government as a means of deepening transparency, accountability, and sound fiscal management in Nigeria.

Muruako made the call in Abuja during the public presentation of the Transparency and Integrity Index 2025 Methodology, a forum jointly organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) and the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity at the Federal Ministry of Finance.

Addressing participants at the event, Muruako urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and state governments to adopt the Transparency and Integrity Index as more than a regulatory requirement, describing it as a vital tool for institutional reform and restoring public confidence.

“This event marks a crucial step in our collective journey toward deepening accountability, transparency, and ethical governance across Nigeria’s public institutions,” he said. “We at the Fiscal Responsibility Commission commend the renewed focus of the 2025 methodology on key governance pillars. Transparency is not an abstract ideal it is a practical necessity and the foundation upon which sound public finance management is built.”

He reaffirmed the Commission’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing fiscal reforms, particularly those targeting the strengthening of local government systems.

He also praised the alignment of the Index with critical legal instruments, including the Freedom of Information Act, Public Procurement Act, and the Fiscal Responsibility Act, noting that such synergy would promote stronger collaboration among regulatory bodies and improve the broader accountability landscape.

“We encourage all MDAs and sub-nationals to use this exercise as an opportunity for self-reflection and transformation,” he added. “By actively engaging with the Index, we move closer to a governance culture that values transparency, performance, and citizen-centered service delivery.”

The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Dasuki Arabi, also addressed the gathering, stating that the Index is designed to identify MDAs demonstrating exemplary governance practices.

He emphasized that the new methodology encourages institutional openness, supports the ease of doing business, and enhances public service delivery.

Representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, was Dr. Moris Mbaeri, who stressed the importance of building robust financial systems across all levels of government to ensure sustainable reform outcomes.

Delivering the keynote presentation, Dr. Umar Yakubu, Executive Director of the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, outlined the five core metrics for evaluating MDAs under the new Index: financial disclosures, procurement processes, human resource management, anti-corruption measures, and citizen engagement.

The event drew participants from the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service, and various federal and state agencies.

Muruako also commended the BPSR for organizing a one-day capacity-building session for officials of the Gambian Ministry of Public Service, held at the FRC, describing it as a testament to the growing regional interest in Nigeria’s fiscal governance reforms.