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NASENI Director Olusunle Honored as Fellow of Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society

Maryam Aminu

In a momentous recognition of his contributions to the mining and geosciences sector, Engr. Dr. Samuel Olugbenga O. Olusunle, a Research Director at the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has been conferred with the prestigious Fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (FNMGS).

This honor places him among the elite professionals in Nigeria’s mining and geosciences landscape.

The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS), one of the oldest professional bodies in Nigeria, concluded its 60th Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE) on February 19, 2025, at the Chida International Hotel, Abuja. The event, marking the society’s 64th anniversary, culminated in an awards night where Dr. Olusunle and 42 other distinguished members were elevated to the esteemed rank of Fellow the highest membership category in the society.

Founded in 1961 as the Nigerian Mining Geological and Metallurgical Society (NMGMS), the NMGS has played a pivotal role in advancing the fields of mining, earth sciences, and metallurgy. With a legacy dating back to Nigeria’s First Republic, where Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe served as the society’s first patron, NMGS continues to uphold professional excellence through research, knowledge dissemination, and policy advocacy.

As a statutory member of the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG), NMGS ensures that mining and geosciences professionals adhere to the highest ethical standards.

The society’s membership categories range from students to corporate affiliates, with the Fellow designation standing as the pinnacle of achievement.

Dr. Olusunle, before his current role at NASENI, served as the Managing Director of the Engineering Materials Development Institute (EMDI) in Akure. He is a distinguished Fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), the Materials Science and Technology Society of Nigeria (MSN), the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), and the Nigerian Metallurgical Society (NMS).

Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Olusunle expressed his gratitude, stating, “I give God the glory and I am truly humbled to be elected Fellow of NMGS. NASENI’s mandate aligns closely with NMGS’s core concerns, particularly in solid minerals exploitation through its institute, SOMMEDI.

Under the leadership of EVC/CEO Khalil S. Halilu, NASENI is also actively engaged in key projects such as the Federal Government’s CNG initiative, reinforcing the synergy between our agency and NMGS.”

This recognition further cements NASENI’s role in national development, particularly in fostering collaboration between science, engineering, and the solid minerals sector.

FG Sets Up Joint Committee to Address Fiber Optic Cuts During Road Construction

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to mitigate the recurring issue of fiber optic cable damage during road construction and rehabilitation activities, the Federal Government has inaugurated a Joint Standing Committee on the Protection of Fiber Optic Cables. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Works (FMoW) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMoCIDE), aims to prevent disruptions in telecommunications services across Nigeria.

The committee was formally inaugurated on Tuesday, February 18, at the FMoW Boardroom by Permanent Secretary Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi and his counterpart at FMoCIDE, Engr. Farouk Yusuf.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida.

The newly established committee comprises representatives from the two ministries and the NCC.

The committee’s primary responsibility is to create and maintain effective communication channels between the ministries and the NCC to prevent damage to fiber optic cables during roadworks.

Engr. Adebiyi emphasized that the committee will serve as a coordinating body for issues related to fiber protection before, during, and after construction activities.

He further directed the committee to devise strategies to reduce cable damage caused by construction and vandalism, which has severely impacted network services nationwide.

To ensure efficiency, the committee will meet regularly to assess challenges, implement industry-wide solutions, standardize engagement protocols, and share monthly performance reports.

Additionally, a real-time communication mechanism will be developed to enable prompt information sharing among stakeholders.

Engr. Adebiyi assured that moving forward, fiber cable placement will be incorporated into road network planning, design, and construction processes, including the provision of dedicated ducts.

He also highlighted plans for closer collaboration with Federal Controllers of Works (FCWs) to safeguard critical telecom infrastructure during project execution.

Engr. Farouk Yusuf underscored the economic importance of fiber optic networks, describing them as the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy.

He noted that broadband connectivity is essential for economic growth and technological advancement, making the committee’s work vital to national development.

NCC CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, highlighted the staggering impact of fiber cuts on the telecommunications industry, revealing that over 50,000 incidents were recorded last year, with around 30,000 linked to road construction activities.

He recalled the February 2024 nationwide MTN network outage as an extreme example of the consequences of fiber cuts.

Dr. Maida stressed the need for a structured collaboration between construction firms and telecom operators to curb fiber damage.

He expressed optimism that the committee’s efforts would lead to a significant reduction in service disruptions, unnecessary repair costs, and redundant infrastructure investments.

“This initiative is not just for the telecommunications industry but for all Nigerians. Every fiber cut results in service disruptions, forcing operators to invest in costly redundancies. By preventing these avoidable damages, resources can be redirected towards network expansion and infrastructure upgrades,” he stated.

The establishment of this committee marks a pivotal step towards ensuring the sustainability and resilience of Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure, reinforcing the government’s commitment to digital transformation and economic growth.

USPF Hands Over Emerging Technology Centre to Ogun State Institute of Technology

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to bridge the digital divide and promote technological advancement in Nigeria, the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), an initiative of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has handed over a state-of-the-art Emerging Technology Centre (ETC) to the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, Ogun State.

The ETC, located on OGITECH’s campus, is designed to enhance students’ learning experiences while serving as a hub for digital innovation, research, and development. It aligns with the government’s vision of expanding ICT access to underserved communities, ultimately driving economic growth across the country.

A significant highlight of the commissioning ceremony, held on Thursday, was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure the effective utilization and sustainability of the project.

Equipped with 100 desktop computers, emerging technology applications, high-speed bandwidth, and connectivity tools, the Centre provides students and faculty members with access to cutting-edge resources, fostering skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and other emerging fields.

Speaking at the handover event, USPF Secretary Yomi Arowosafe described the ETC as more than just infrastructure but a commitment to Nigeria’s technological future. He emphasized that under the leadership of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, the USPF remains dedicated to expanding ICT access nationwide.

“With a student population of 9,300, OGITECH is one of Nigeria’s leading technology institutions, and we are proud to partner with them. This Centre will provide opportunities for students to develop crucial digital skills while supporting faculty members in integrating technology into their teaching and research,” Arowosafe stated.

He also highlighted the ETC’s role in driving entrepreneurship, noting that it would serve as a platform for start-ups and small businesses to incubate and grow.

In his remarks, OGITECH’s Rector, Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, expressed gratitude to the NCC and USPF for selecting the institution for the project.

He assured that the facility would be put to optimal use, benefiting not only the school but also the wider community.

The MoU, Arowosafe explained, is part of USPF’s sustainability strategy, ensuring that beneficiary institutions take ownership of such projects and maintain them for long-term impact.

The USPF was established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to drive universal access to ICT services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, ensuring greater social equity and digital inclusion across the country.

NiMet DG Champions Transformational Leadership at African Leadership Awards

Maryam Aminu

Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact. For Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the true mark of leadership lies in setting a positive, lasting climate within a team.

Speaking at the African Leadership Persons of the Year 2025 event in Casablanca, Morocco, on Friday, March 21, 2025, Anosike underscored the power of influence, collaboration, and vision in shaping the future.

Anosike emphasized that true leadership is about inspiring collaboration, fostering resilience, and creating a lasting impact.

He highlighted the role of leaders in shaping organizational culture, stressing that great leadership is not just about authority but about setting the tone for success.

“While the weather may change tomorrow, the climate is experienced every day. Great leaders lead by doing!” he declared.

Nimet DG, who is among the recipients of the prestigious African Leadership Persons of the Year 2025 awards, expressed gratitude for the recognition.

He attributed his success to the unwavering support of Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the dedicated team at NiMet.

He also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of driving transformative change at the agency, which has been delivering meteorological services for over 130 years since its establishment in 1887 in Akassa, present-day Bayelsa State.

Anosike highlighted NiMet’s pivotal role in supporting climate-smart agriculture, providing farmers with early warnings and climate intelligence to enhance productivity and food security.

“Climate change is a threat multiplier, exacerbating socio-economic vulnerabilities, especially for disadvantaged communities with limited access to resources or inadequate infrastructure. Extreme weather events further deepen these disparities,” he warned.

He outlined the agency’s commitment to multi-hazard monitoring, disaster risk management, and climate risk intelligence, all of which are critical for mitigation and adaptation strategies in Nigeria and beyond.

“By leveraging our network of weather stations across Nigeria and strengthening stakeholder collaboration, we deliver impact-based forecasts and early warnings to enhance safety, resilience, and food security,” he added.

NiMet is also collaborating with funding partners and the private sector to bridge government funding gaps in meteorological interventions. The agency is upgrading its weather observation networks to bolster early warning systems and enhance community preparedness for climate-related disasters.

Reinforcing the essence of teamwork and stakeholder engagement, Anosike stressed that leadership is not a solo endeavor but a shared responsibility.

“Leadership is not an individual property but an emergent property of the system,” he concluded.

As part of his recognition, Professor Anosike will receive the African Public Sector Leadership Impact Award at a grand ceremony scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025.

Youth Ministry Partners with Flutterwave to Boost Empowerment, Mentorship

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to advance youth empowerment in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Flutterwave, a leading financial technology company. The partnership aims to enhance mentorship, digital skills training, and access to start-up funding for young Nigerians.

The MoU signing ceremony, presided over by the Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, was attended by key government officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya. The initiative will introduce strategic programs to equip youth with essential skills and financial support, reinforcing the government’s commitment to job creation and economic development.

A key highlight of the collaboration is Flutterwave’s role in streamlining stipend disbursements for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, ensuring a faster and more efficient payment system. This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s eight priority pillars, which focus on economic growth, innovation, and youth empowerment.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Legal Services at the Ministry, Mr. Ernest Ezebilo, emphasized the partnership’s significance in providing young Nigerians with the tools to succeed in an increasingly digital economy.

Flutterwave’s Co-founder and CEO, Olugbenga Agboola, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to leveraging technology for sustainable youth empowerment.

He noted that the partnership would create a robust support system for young entrepreneurs and job seekers.

Minister Olawande commended Flutterwave’s role in youth-focused initiatives, describing the collaboration as a critical step toward realizing President Tinubu’s vision for economic transformation.

He highlighted the involvement of key agencies under the Ministry, including the NYSC and the Citizenship & Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), in executing these programs.

“This partnership contributes directly to the President’s eight priority pillars by:

Expanding access to training, mentorship, and funding for young entrepreneurs,

Supporting youth-led businesses to foster innovation and industrialization,

Strengthening technical and leadership training programs,

Enhancing access to capital for start-ups,

Leveraging digital innovation to create sustainable employment opportunities,

Promoting civic engagement through NYSC and CLTC initiatives, and

Demonstrating the impact of public-private sector collaboration in national development,” Olawande stated.

The Honourable Minister expressed confidence that this partnership would significantly enhance the Ministry’s mission to empower Nigerian youth, positioning them as key drivers of the nation’s economic growth.

Defence Minister Matawalle Calls for Law and Order in Osun State Amid Rising Tensions

Emmanuel Daudu

Amid growing unrest in Osun State, the Federal Government has issued a strong call for peace and stability.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed deep concern over the recent disturbances in local government councils, urging security agencies to take decisive action in maintaining law and order.

Matawalle emphasized that the judiciary’s recent ruling on the matter reflects its independence and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law nationwide.

He condemned the violence that led to the loss of lives, stressing that such incidents must not be allowed to continue.

“As Minister of State for Defence, my duty includes the protection of lives and property. This administration remains dedicated to ensuring that democratic principles are upheld at all levels of governance,” Matawalle stated.

The minister urged all political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations to respect the rule of law and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve disputes. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in fostering a stable and secure environment essential for the development of Osun State.

He also called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the federal government is committed to their safety and has elevated security measures to prevent further violence.

Matawalle reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to protect democratic rights, ensuring that peace, justice, and the rule of law prevail. He reiterated that the government will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and harmony across the country.

Security Operatives Storm Lagos State House of Assembly, Raising Concerns Over Democratic Integrity

Maryam Aminu

CLEEN Foundation has condemned the recent invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police, describing it as a direct attack on democratic principles and institutional independence.

According to reports, security personnel stormed the legislative complex in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025, sealing off the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House. Armed operatives were also stationed around the Assembly premises, raising concerns about undue interference in the state’s legislative affairs.

The incident comes amid ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, a development that has intensified political tensions in the state.

CLEEN Foundation warns that the forceful occupation of the Assembly premises sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the rule of law, separation of powers, and the independence of democratic institutions.

CLEEN Foundation has urged security agencies to maintain professionalism and avoid being used as political tools to undermine democracy. The organization is demanding the following immediate actions:

Transparency and Accountability: Security agencies must provide a clear legal basis for their actions and ensure that their operations do not obstruct democratic processes.

Respect for the Rule of Law: All parties must allow due legal procedures to take their course without intimidation or coercion.

Legislative Independence: The Lagos State House of Assembly must be allowed to function without interference from security agencies or external political influences.

CLEEN Foundation calls on the Federal Government, the Lagos State Government, and the Judiciary to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent the abuse of security forces for political gain. The organization emphasizes that democracy thrives when institutions operate freely, without intimidation or coercion.

NiMet Partners with CARE Nigeria to Improve Climate Information Access

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has announced a strategic partnership with CARE Nigeria, a branch of CARE USA, aimed at expanding the reach of critical weather and climate data to end users, particularly farmers and vulnerable communities.

Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with CARE Nigeria’s Country Director, Dr. Hussaini Abdu, the Director General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, emphasized the importance of timely weather information in disaster preparedness. He noted that partnerships with state governments and humanitarian organizations like CARE Nigeria are essential in ensuring that climate data reaches those who need it most.

“As climate change continues to drive humanitarian crises and displace communities, integrating weather information into development strategies is crucial,” Prof. Anosike stated.

He stressed that climate-informed decision-making is vital in addressing poverty, forced displacement, and human trafficking, which are often exacerbated by extreme weather events.

In response, Dr. Abdu highlighted CARE Nigeria’s commitment to crisis response and development programs, particularly in the Northeast, where climate change has intensified humanitarian challenges. “NiMet plays a critical role in supporting smallholder farmers and promoting climate-smart agriculture. This partnership will help elevate climate-related discussions and advocate for more sustainable public policies,” he said.

Both organizations have agreed to formalize their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marking a significant step toward strengthening climate resilience in Nigeria.

Gen Musa vindicated, foreign forces behind Boko Haram exposed, What’s Next

By Victor Akaa.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has had his claims confirmed that Boko Haram extremists are being sponsored by foreign countries.

In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, General Musa expressed concerns about the persistence of Boko Haram’s activities over the past 16 years, despite Nigerian military efforts to defeat them. He cited evidence that many captured Boko Haram terrorists were found with funds linked to powerful foreign nations, suggesting international complicity in supporting the group.
During the interview, General Musa put forward a challenging question, saying “how have they (terrorists) been able to sustain themselves for 15 years?

General Musa’s assertion was recently corroborated by a US congressman, Scott Perry who dropped a bombshell, alleging that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funneling a staggering $697 million annually to terrorists organisations including the notorious Boko Haram. This shocking revelation was made during a hearing on government efficiency, where Perry questioned the misuse of taxpayer funds to support terrorist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaida. He also claimed that USAID’s funding of programmes in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan has been ineffective, with millions of dollars unaccounted for, and instead, being used to fund terrorism. He affirmed that, over $136 million was allocated to USAID to build 120 schools in Pakistan, yet there’s zero evidence that these schools exist.

This vindicates General Musa’s earlier statement and raises questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. The recent surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members, many of whom were found with money from powerful foreign countries, has sparked a heated debate about the conflict. As General Musa aptly put it, “Where are they getting this money? Who is training them? Who is supplying them with weapons?” These questions seem to be rhetorical but are needed to be answered. The discovery of foreign money among surrendered Boko Haram members is a disturbing indication of the level of external support the group has received.

It is clear that Boko Haram’s ability to wage war against the Nigerian state has been facilitated by foreign powers. The question of who is training and supplying Boko Haram with weapons is critical, and it is likely that the group has received support from foreign military personnel. Skelly Moss from James Madison University notes that the international community’s role in perpetuating the conflict cannot be overstated, and it’s crucial to examine the complex web of interests and alliances that have contributed to Boko Haram’s rise. The implications of foreign involvement in Boko Haram’s activities are far-reaching, suggesting that the conflict is not just a local insurgency, but a complex web of international intrigue and geopolitics.

The Nigerian government and military must now confront the reality that they are facing a domestic enemy backed by powerful foreign forces. Under General Musa’s leadership, the Nigerian military has made significant gains against Boko Haram, recapturing territories and neutralizing insurgents. As General Musa continues to lead the charge against extremism, it is clear that he has earned the respect of many. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian military’s response to the conflict, and his commitment to defeating the extremists is unwavering.

The surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members and the discovery of foreign money among them is a significant development, raising important questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. As General Musa said, “We need to get to the bottom of it,” and it is essential that the Nigerian Government and the International community work together to uncover the web of deceit behind Boko Haram’s activities.

Victor Akaa writes from Abuja.

NiMet Partners with Gates Foundation to Boost Climate Resilience Through Specialized Training

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to strengthen climate resilience and enhance weather forecasting capabilities, selected staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) will undergo specialized training sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The training is part of the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project (2024-2026), implemented by Sahel Consulting, and aims to equip NiMet personnel with advanced skills in climate data analysis and application.

A statement from NiMet’s media office highlighted that staff members have previously benefited from similar training under the ongoing partnership.

The upcoming training will be conducted by the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), a key technical partner in the project and a part of the Columbia Climate School at Columbia University.

The program is structured into two phases:
Training of Trainers (ToT) session – February 18 to 21 and Expanded training session – February 24 to 28, where NiMet staff will train participants from various ministries and agencies under the guidance of an IRI expert.

Receiving Dr. Tufa Dinku, a Research Scientist from IRI, who visited to brief him on the training, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed appreciation to the Gates Foundation and its partners for their support.

“Access to high-quality climate data is essential for developing effective, decision-relevant, and sustainable climate services. This training will enhance our capacity and empower beneficiaries to leverage climate information for improved decision-making,” Prof. Anosike stated.

The initiative is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s agricultural resilience, improve climate adaptation strategies, and enhance the country’s meteorological services.