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Highstone Global University, Texas, USA/NIPEM committed to preparing global citizens- Prof Valentine Iheukwumere

Highstone Global University, Texas, USA, Africa Vice Chancellor, Prof Valentine Iheukwumere has stated that the University is committed to preparing students to be global citizens who are equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century.

The Professor stated this during the 7th Convocation, matriculation and award ceremony of the school which was held in the city of Lagos on Saturday.

Prof Valentine Iheukwumere who led the Graduands Procession and also declared open the Convocation ceremony said, “The mission of Highstone Global University is to empower students to reach their full potential by offering a diverse range of high-quality academic programs, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Meanwhile, NIPEM INT’L President, Prof Maurice Azubuike Odiete who also spoke at the event noted that their Primary Objective is to provide Mass Education and Employment to Nigerians and Africans, and to raise competent professionals and effective leaders and entrepreneurs that will help transform the global economy.

“Here, we help discover and assist the students to develop their technical skills with emphasis on self-growth and reliance. We are really proud and glad to see that this goal and vision is already a reality as you can witness today. Indeed we call upon individuals and organizations to support us in any way possible to ensure that the Nigerian youths maximize their potentials and academic aspirations through this platform and opportunity.

“In NIPEMint`l there is no idle moment, we believe in the legacy of Education, thatEDUCATION IS POWER,hence our goal is toDEVELOP TALENTSandMAXIMIZE POTENTIALSof our students. EDUCATION IS POWER!!!
Unlock your skills and potential, and take your career to new heights with NIPEM Professional Education Management Int’l,” he concluded.

The school Vice Chancellor, Prof. INNIME RIGHTEOUS speaking on the subject ‘Living for the future, the right way to live’ said It was indeed a thing of great joy to see their alumni reach for the skies and make the best out of life, but argued that only the small fraction of them who discover the power of living for the future will succeed.

“As a school, we will constantly strive to increase this percentage by deploying the best resources, material and human, in delivering our promise of a quality education to you. This is the future we are living in. We only implore you to also think in the same way. Locked up with in each of you is the capacity to determine what kind of future you want and what actions can get you there.There is only so much the world outside can do. Indeed, taking a horse to the river is one thing; getting it to drink water is quite another,” he said

One of the Guest Speakers, Dr Rita Akpan who is the Director of Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) South South and South-East who also double as the current Chairman Head of Federal Establishment Cross River State Chapter addressed the audience on the impact of education on national economy, and the benefits of IJMB to promote alternative route to gaining admissions into any University in Nigeria through IJMB, she also pointed that IJMB has granted NIPEM College of Health And Management Science, including the Highestone Business School Affiliation.

The father of the day, Rev. Dr. Fidel Aduaye-Odiete who gave the opening prayer exhorted both the matriculants and Graduands on the need to maintain socio-moral and ethical principles at all times, he concluded by praying for the students success.

Some notable distinguished eminent personalities bagged the Highstone Global University Texas USA Honorary Doctorate Degree Awards. They included; Dr Rita Akpan, Engr. Wilson Itune Imong, Mrs Peace Uduak Nkire, Engr. Philip Edidiong Udo-Inem, Dr Dee Davidson-Ogunnaike, Engr. Emmanuel Chuks Mormah, Mr. Adesina Adewale, Mr Gregory Itah, Mr. KINGSLEY EJIKE OLOVO, Mrs GLORIA NNEKA OHANUBA

The Matriculation Oath was led by the Deputy Registrar, Dr. Mrs Deborah Ebenezer and the Dean of Students Affairs, Proph. Dr. Glova Iheukwumere

Atomatofa Omokoni Oghenekome emerged as the best graduating student for Highstone Global University Texas, USA. While OJUMU Idowu Timileyin emerged NIPEM INTL Best Graduating student

Dorcas Beloved received the award of the Best Behaved Student. Several other students that were recognized.

Oyo State Government Partners with Gloves for Africa to Empower Young Boxer

Maryam Aminu

The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced a new partnership with Gloves for Africa to empower young boxers in the state.

The collaboration, facilitated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, aims to enhance the skills and opportunities for young athletes in Oyo State.

Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, expressed optimism about the impact of this partnership, stating it will provide young boxers with top-quality training, equipment, and mentorship.

“This collaboration will help our athletes compete on both national and international platforms,” she said.

The Oyo State Government remains dedicated to sports development and youth empowerment initiatives.

This partnership aligns with the state’s goals to instill values like discipline, hard work, and fair play in its young population.

The joint initiatives under this collaboration will include training programs, tournaments, scholarships, and the promotion of boxing among young people in the state.

Hon. Adegoke expressed gratitude to Gloves for Africa for their commitment to supporting youth through sports and looks forward to a successful partnership.

Hon Wasilat practicing with a young boxer

AHUON Concludes 2nd Annual Zonal Conference, Calls for Comprehensive Hajj Reforms

Maryam Aminu

The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has successfully concluded its 2nd Annual Zonal Conference, held from 19th to 28th August 2024.

The conference took place across Lagos, Kano, and Abuja, providing a platform for the National Executive Council (NEC) of AHUON to meet with members from its three zones.

The event served as an opportunity to update members on the association’s activities over the past year and to gather feedback for future development.

This year’s conference was held under the theme, “Hajj Reform: The Position of AHUON,” starting in Lagos on 19th August, moving to Kano on 22nd August, and concluding with a grand event in Abuja on 28th August.

The gathering attracted top industry experts, representatives from the National Assembly, financial institutions, and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), with a NAHCON representative serving as the Chairman of the occasion.

The National President Abdullateef Yusuf Ekundayo commended the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its ongoing support to Nigerian pilgrims.

Ekundayo urged the government to extend similar support to pilgrims under private tour operators.

The participants unanimously call for the immediate amendment of the NAHCON Acts, which was described as outdated and inadequate for modern Hajj management, particularly in light of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms.

The participants emphasised that any future amendments to the NAHCON Acts should include provisions for private sector initiatives led by AHUON, with representation on the NAHCON board, reflecting the increasingly critical role of private tour operators in Hajj management.

Concerns were raised regarding NAHCON’s delay in closing the financial accounts for the 2024 Hajj, with a strong demand for the commission to reconcile its accounts and settle all outstanding payments before opening bids for the 2025 Hajj license.

AHUON Members also criticised NAHCON for its lack of response to AHUON’s call for intervention on the inconsistent Umrah visa regime from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, urging direct government involvement in this matter.

The conference also condemned the practice of reallocating slots meant for tour operators to other government agencies and called on NAHCON to honour the allocation of 20,000 slots reserved for private tour companies.

There was widespread dissatisfaction with the current service provider, Ithra AlKhair, due to its perceived failure to deliver optimal services.

AHUON Members called for Ithra AlKhair’s replacement or the engagement of multiple service providers, as is done in other countries.

AHUON was encouraged to pursue greater professionalism and aim for charter status, which would help consolidate its achievements in eliminating unqualified operators from the industry.

The participants also advocated for a review of the association’s constitution to align with standard practices and enhance good governance.

The conference stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in all dealings with pilgrims, who are considered guests of Allah.

It was agreed that improved cooperation and possible mergers among members would be crucial for effective operations in the future.

Recognising the need to address airlift challenges faced by pilgrims, the conference endorsed the proposal to introduce Flyadeal as a dedicated carrier for AHUON members, following its successful operations during the 2024 Hajj.

The conference concluded with the unveiling of a new logo for AHUON, symbolising a new era and the association’s readiness to embrace comprehensive Hajj reforms.

APC To Unveil Progressive Institute on Friday

By Emmanuel Daudu

The ruling All Progressive Congress, APC will on Friday, September 6th, 2024 set to unveil its newly established Think Tank and Resource Center, The Progressive Institute, TPI in Abuja.

According to Wale Abideen, Head, Media and Strategic Communication, the Progressive Institute Abuja, disclosed that the formal unveiling, slated for 10: am at the Abuja Inter-Continental Hotel, (formally Sheraton Hotels), will be performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He further stated that the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is expected to host the event while Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chairman, the Progressives Governors’ Forum will be delivering inaugural lecture on ‘The Progressive Philosophy and its Programmatic Implications on Governance’.

Similarly, the Director General, of the institute, Lanre Adebayo, PhD, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja early noted that the Program is being organized as part of the arrangements for the official take-off of The Progressive Institute.

“TPI is registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a Company Limited by Guarantee and it has been duly certified by the Ministries of Justice and Education”.

The DG added that TPI was established as a strategic decision of the APC Leadership to enhance its leadership recruitment process through quality training, strengthen intra-party democracy and governance as well as the APC’s policy role especially through independent research. The Institute will develop a template for all season voters education as part of the APC’s efforts to empower the Nigerian electorate.

Youth Green Houses to be Located in All 774 LGAs as Tinubu Approves Establishment of ‘Youth House’ in Abuja- Olawande

Maryam Aminu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a ‘Youth House’ in Abuja, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at creating a central hub for young people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, announced the approval today during a press conference held at his office in Abuja.

Engr. Olawande explained that the ‘Youth House’ will serve as a meeting point for young Nigerians, offering a platform for social interaction, self-discovery, and talent development.

He highlighted that this initiative fulfills a long-standing desire among youth groups for a dedicated space in the nation’s capital.

“What the President has accomplished is to provide all Nigerian youth with another platform for social interaction and an opportunity to discover their self-identity and passions. With the ‘Youth House’ now established, many young people will have the chance to effectively showcase their talents and abilities,” said Olawande.

He added, “For a long time, various youth stakeholders and groups have been calling for a significant building in the nation’s capital to function as a ‘Youth House,’ but this desire has gone unfulfilled. Now, our youth-supporting President has made this a reality, and Nigerian youth are grateful.”

According to the Minister, a detailed organogram and the functions of the Youth House will be released soon.

He noted that the initiative aims to develop essential life skills among the youth, including leadership, teamwork, cooperation, and communication.

Olawande also revealed plans for establishing Youth Centres in each state capital and ‘Youth Green Houses’ at the secretariats of all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

According to him, “I want to emphasize that the Youth House will not only be in the FCT, but there will also be a Youth Centre in every state of the Federation, along with a corresponding Youth Green House to be situated within the secretariats of all the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Although these won’t be large structures, they will help us achieve our goal of bringing the government closer to the youth at every level to promote fairness and enhance the administration’s commitment to implementing youth programs and policies inclusively.”

The initiative, which involves coordination with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and private sector partners, is expected to facilitate opportunities for all categories of youth across Nigeria.

Olawande praised President Tinubu for his commitment to youth development, stating that the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” has already shown tangible benefits for Nigerian youth.

He called on the youth to remain patient and supportive, emphasizing the government’s continued focus on youth issues.

Minster of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande

RMAFC to Explore New Revenue Sources with Space Technology Collaboration

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to identifying new avenues for revenue generation to support Nigeria’s development under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

This announcement was made by RMAFC Chairman, Muhammed Bello Shehu, OFR, during a meeting with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).

Shehu, represented by Engineer Muhammed Sanni Baba, Honourable Member representing Bauchi State in the Commission, made this statement during a visit by a delegation from the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).

The delegation, led by Dr. Abayomi Taofik Alaga, Director of Mission Planning and Satellite Data Management, was at the Commission to provide insights on exploring new revenue lines for the Federation.

The Chairman disclosed that NASRDA had been invited by the Commission to present strategies for optimising potential revenue streams into the Federation Account. This aligns with the core mandate of the Commission: to identify, mobilise, monitor, and recommend alternative sources of revenue for sharing among the three tiers of government in Nigeria.

“We welcome the NASRDA delegation as they guide us through the operational details of their organisation and enlighten us on how we can better achieve our mandate,” he said.

The Chairman also revealed that the Commission plans to extend its collaboration beyond NASRDA to include the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT).

He said the aim is to leverage optimised satellite operations to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of revenues accruing to the Federation Account.

Dr. Leke Oyewale, Managing Director of Milky-Way Visuals and a member of the NASRDA delegation, presented on the potential revenue streams from space technology through geospatial support.

He explained that initiatives such as satellite development, space-based services, and the commercialisation of space research could significantly boost revenue generation.

Dr. Oyewale highlighted various other revenue opportunities, including bunker levies in midstream operations, ocean meteorological services, satellite monitoring of pollution, recovery of spilled oil, cargo clearance platforms within ports, automation of revenue lines, and value addition to telecommunications services.

He estimated that these initiatives could generate over $45 billion annually in the first two years and potentially increase to $50 billion per annum with adequate harnessing.

He further noted that additional opportunities exist in the solid minerals and agricultural sectors. These sectors could generate around 4.5 billion naira annually from mining operations and up to 500 billion naira annually from digital agriculture.

Ambassador Ayuba Ngbako, Honourable Member representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Commission, extended a vote of thanks, commending NASRDA and Milky-Way Visuals Limited for their presentations.

He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to incorporating satellite technology and encouraged the Board Members and staff to apply the knowledge gained to boost Nigeria’s economy.

UNESCO Laureate Aremu , Africa Head of Africa Climate Change Council Outlines it’s features To Global SDGs Achievements

Aremu Commends UNACCC Global Leaders On Support To SDGs’ implementation

VC CUICI, USA Outlines Various Contributions of UNACCC To Agenda 2030

By Victor Bieni, Asaba

UNESCO Laureate & Vice Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, has commended the Global leaders of Unity of Nations Action For Climate Change Council (UNACCC), an official partner of United Nations on contributions to meeting agenda 2030 as he outlines the group’s relevance to Global SDGs achievements or implementation in different countries of the world.

The media learnt this from Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu today being Tuesday, September 3, 2024 in a press statement personally signed by him which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State Capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Aremu commended the group’s global leaders for being good ambassadors of the 17 United Nations’ SDGs or Global goals.

United Nations 17 Global SDGs implementation or Agenda 2030 means Sustainable Development Goals listed by United Nations targeted at in order to eradicate poverty and realize a sustainable world.

You could recall that Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu was recently appointed Head, Africa-UNAccc. He has Started performing his roles as different Heads, Board of Trustees, Patrons from other 57 African countries, Executives from States in those countries have started emerging as great Actors and Achievers in Global SDGs, most importantly promoting Climate change actions towards a sustainable world or economic growth and development.

Prof Aremu stated that the relevance of UNACCC as a global CEO group domesticating SDGs in the entire world are among others: To reduce the high level of Carbon intensity, remove impediments to global sustainable growth and development, address the challenges of SDGs, open opportunities, prospects towards SDGs achievements through collaborations with various businesses, individuals, Organizations, governments and international donors or agencies.

VC CUICI, USA & UNESCO Laureate in the release, has lauded the efforts of the UN body towards global 17 goals, SDGs implementation Success stated: “I must commend the leadership of Unity of Nations Action For Climate Chance Council (UNACCC, an official partner of United Nations on daily contributions to global SDGs’ achievements or implementation”.

“The United of Nations Actions for Climate Change Council (UNACCC) is a global organization on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development”.

“It operates as a public policy think tank and research institute, that operates world wide in collaboration with Chief Executive Officer and Managing Directors UNAccc work identifying low carbon growth opportunities, implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030, and create strategies mitigate adverse impacts of climate change”.

“UNACCC has collaborations with various Stakeholders including business, governments and other organizations, to accelerate transition to a sustainable world. Their initiative aims to lower the carbon intensity of the economic and address barriers to sustainable development”.

“UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the Vice Chancellor of The Crown University International Chartered in Inc. USA which is a global recognized private research university which offers professional vocational training and higher education. It serves as an autonomous global recognized university, offering education and practical skill in the courses taught at its official partner’s constituents campuses at government regulated universities worldwide and online operation”.

“Crown University International Chartered Incorporated Inc. Entity is duly incorporated under the International Laws of 1704,1776 and 1787 in United States of America with chartered file number: 7594662 as a worldwide recognized teaching and research university with International Trade Mark registered of logo with an international trademark order of receipt number: 668383, Customer number:270163 in United States of America”.

“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore is The VC, CUICI, USA, a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom”.

“He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria (Proposed) to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India.

“He is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.

NGIJ Ushers-in New Executives at Solemn Virtual Inauguration Ceremony

In a landmark event, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) officially inaugurated its newly elected National Executive Committee (Exco) today, Friday August 30, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.

A statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Guild, Malam Abdullahi Gulloma stated that, “The inauguration ceremony, which commenced at precisely 12:12 pm, was conducted virtually by Barr. Ahmed Kehinde Lambe, the Principal Partner of Lambe & Co., an Abuja-based law firm and Notary Public.”

Added that, “The newly elected Exco members solemnly took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, pledging to uphold the mission, values, and principles of the NGIJ. The oaths were administered with the utmost solemnity, underscoring the gravity of the responsibilities the new leaders have assumed.

“I am truly humbled and honored to stand before you today as we usher in a new chapter for the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists,” said the newly elected NGIJ President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan in his inauguration address.

“We are committed to fostering a culture of fearless reporting, holding power to account, and championing the public interest in all our endeavors.”

The President acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, but expressed the Exco’s unwavering dedication to advancing the noble cause of investigative journalism in Nigeria.

“The road ahead will undoubtedly be filled with obstacles, but we are resolute in our commitment to bringing about positive change, promoting transparency, and safeguarding the freedom of the press.”

According to the statement, “The newly sworn-in Exco members pledged to serve the NGIJ members with integrity, transparency, and dedication, ensuring that their voices are heard and their interests are represented. They also committed to upholding the organization’s constitution and bylaws, and to work collaboratively with their fellow officers and members to achieve the Guild’s goals and objectives.”

The inauguration ceremony was attended by a diverse audience, including NGIJ members, media professionals, and industry stakeholders, all of whom witnessed the passing of the torch to the new leadership team.

New Executive members of NGIJ are, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, the President, Oyewale Oyelola, Vice President (Administration and Strategic Communications), Comrade James Ezema as the Vice President 2 (Investigation).

Others: Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa, the National Secretary of the Guild, Mr. Gbenga Shaba, the Treasurer while Malam Abdullahi Gulloma sworn-in as the Public Relations Officer and Ikem Ifeoma, the Auditor. Meanwhile, the offices of the Registrar and Financial Secretary of the Guild remain vacant to be filled by bye-election within a possible shortest time.

As the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists enters this new era, the members, the media landscape, and the public at large can look forward to a renewed spirit of dedication, innovation, and excellence in the pursuit of investigative journalism in the country.

Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim Calls for Enhanced Collaboration in Youth Development Initiatives

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has called for stronger collaboration between federal and state governments to accelerate youth development across Nigeria.

Speaking at a high-level meeting with Commissioners of Youth from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday at the Shehu Musa Yaradua Centre, Abuja, Dr. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of unity in advancing the welfare and potential of the nation’s youth.

Welcoming the participants, Dr. Ibrahim expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with state commissioners in pursuit of the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to create a brighter future for young Nigerians.

“This gathering is a testament to our shared commitment to youth development, we are here to strengthen our efforts, align our strategies, and ensure that our policies genuinely reflect the aspirations of the youth we serve.” She said

Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the ongoing review of the National Youth Policy 2023-2028, which she described as a critical framework for addressing the diverse needs of Nigerian youth.

She stressed the importance of adapting the policy to the unique circumstances of each state through a series of zonal consultations.

“Our goal is to ensure that this policy is not just a document but a living framework that responds to the local realities of our young people,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.

“I urge all commissioners to actively participate in the consultations and bring forward the voices and priorities of your states.”

The Minister outlined several significant youth-focused programmes and initiatives under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Tinubu, designed to empower young Nigerians and provide opportunities for growth and development:

She mentioned The Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) Programme, The 3 Million Technical Talents Scheme,The Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) and The National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP)

In alignment with these initiatives, Dr. Ibrahim detailed the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, including the restructuring of the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), now endowed with 110 billion Naira.

“The Fund is set to evolve into the National Youth Development Fund, a more comprehensive and sustainable framework aimed at supporting youth entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, and innovative projects nationwide.”

“We are committed to transforming the NYIF into a permanent national resource that will empower Nigerian youth for generations to come,” Dr. Ibrahim affirmed, revealing ongoing legislative efforts to institutionalize the fund.

The Minister announced several other key initiatives aimed at fostering youth development

These she said includes Presidential Initiative on Youth Enterprise Clusters (PIYEC):Targeting the creation of 2 million jobs through strategic business clusters across various sectors, including agroforestry, with initial support from Niger and Katsina States.
Establishment of the National Youth

The Development Bank initiative is a dedicated financial institution to support youth-owned enterprises, particularly those not covered under existing commercial loan regimes.

Others include Reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Aimed at making the NYSC experience more impactful, financially rewarding, and sustainable, beyond its role in promoting national integration and Launch of the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) Supported by international partners, including the European Union, this programme is designed to equip young Nigerians with contemporary skills and prepare them for future job markets.

Dr. Ibrahim revealed plans to launch the National Council on Youth, a platform for coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in youth development. The Council will include key figures such as the Honourable Minister and Honourable Minister of State, the Permanent Secretary, and Commissioners of Youth from all states and the FCT.

“This Council will ensure that our policies are effectively implemented and that the voices of our youth are heard at the highest levels of government,” she explained.

Dr. Ibrahim called on the commissioners to align their state-level youth programmes with national priorities under the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

She emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to maximize the impact of youth development efforts across the country.

“Let us seize this opportunity to build stronger partnerships, learn from one another, and create a cohesive strategy that truly addresses the needs of our young people,” she urged.

“Together, we can achieve great things for the youth of Nigeria.”

The meeting ended on a hopeful note, with a shared commitment to furthering youth development through strengthened partnerships and strategic collaboration across all levels of government.

In an interview with journalists, the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth, Hon. Wasilat Adefemi, expressed optimism about the consultative meeting with the Minister of Youth, describing it as a crucial step in fostering synergy between the federal and state governments.

Hon. Adefemi noted that the meeting provided state commissioners with vital information beyond what is typically seen on social media and in news headlines, enhancing their understanding of youth-related issues.

She emphasized that youth empowerment remains a top priority for her administration, highlighting that, with the support of Governor Seyi Makinde, the state has successfully graduated 500 youths in various skills development programs.

Hon. Adefemi assured that efforts to empower more youths across the state would continue as part of her commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for young people in Oyo State.

Federal Government Tasks NYSC Members to Plant 10 Trees Each Before Passing Out Parade

Maryam Aminu

In a renewed effort to tackle climate change and environmental degradation, the Federal Government has directed all National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to plant a minimum of ten trees before their Passing Out Parade (POP). This directive was announced by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during the national flag-off of the NYSC tree-planting campaign at the permanent orientation camp in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim highlighted the Federal Government’s partnership with the African Union Development Agency (AU-NEPAD) to lead this initiative, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to planting 25 million trees by 2030. She emphasized the critical role of tree planting in mitigating climate change and encouraged corps members to use their creativity and energy to foster positive environmental changes in their communities.

“With around 400,000 corps members mobilized annually, the planting of 10 trees per person will result in four million new trees each year, achieving 20 million trees over five years. The NYSC, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is fully equipped to fulfill this ambitious goal,” Dr. Bio Ibrahim noted.

Addressing the urgency of the initiative, she pointed out that desertification has eroded Nigeria’s valuable
agricultural land, leading to conflicts over land use and creating challenges for farmers, herders, and communities.

“Climate change is profoundly impacting Nigeria, evident in the desertification in the north due to droughts and erosion in the south caused by floods,” she explained.

The Minister also highlighted the adverse effects of climatic variations on agricultural produce, air quality, and soil health, calling for collective action to protect the environment.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim stressed the importance of tree planting as an effective strategy to combat desertification, erosion, and other environmental challenges, including insecurity.

“Even small efforts can make a big difference in conserving the environment. However, the success of this endeavor relies on the energy and innovative spirit of our youths,” she added.

She called on all stakeholders, including community leaders and government agencies, to support the program to ensure a healthier environment for future generations.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim emphasized that Nigerian youth, with their creativity, energy, and commitment, are crucial to the project’s success, urging Corps members to harness these qualities to achieve the program’s goals.