Dr. Tim Nda Diche Declares Bid for Senatorial Seat, Calls for Justice

…Says Bassa People Deserve Fair Deal in Upcoming Election

A former commissioner and Maaji of Bassa Nge Kingdom, Dr. Tim Nda Diche, has formally declared his intention to contest the senatorial seat in next year’s election, pledging to champion fairness, equity, and inclusive governance for the people of Bassa and Kogi East in general.

Dr. Diche made the declaration on Friday during a consultative meeting at his residence, attended by critical stakeholders, political leaders, traditional figures, and representatives drawn from all major political parties from Bassa and across Kogi State.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Diche lamented what he described as the long-standing marginalization of the Bassa people, stating that it was time for the district to be given a fair chance in the political arrangement of the state.

According to him, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has consistently emphasized balanced representation across all axes of the state, a principle he believes should guide the political decisions ahead of the next election.

“We the people of Bassa have been sidelined for too long in the scheme of things,” he said. “This is the time for us to speak with one voice. I am not here for a personal or regional agenda. I am a bridge-builder and a founding member of the APC. For over 18 years, I have been active on the political stage, and I have planted myself in the minds of our people.”

Dr. Diche stressed that he was offering himself for service because of his unflinching commitment to the welfare of the Bassa people and Kogi East at large.

“Bassa has existed for over 50 years, yet we still struggle for basic representation,” he noted. “Politics should not be about popularity alone. If the government believes in fairness and inclusivity, then Bassa deserves consideration. I am not here to lead for self-interest but to defend the interests of my people.”

He highlighted several infrastructural challenges faced by Bassa, including the neglected federal road in the area, despite representation by multiple senators from the eastern axis.

“Let one of our own be there to speak for us,” he added. “This is not the first time I am contesting for national interest. I have contested for the House of Representatives before. But I am starting again from home because I believe this job must be done. It’s not about me; it’s about the people.”

Dr. Diche appealed for unity among stakeholders, urging those who may not directly support him to at least pray for him and support the collective struggle for fairness.

“If by the grace of God I get the APC ticket, I ask you all—adopt me, stand with me, and let us work together. I will protect the collective interest of Bassa,” he pledged.

Stakeholders who spoke at the meeting counseled him on way forward and appealed to the state government to consider their son, Dr. Diche, whom they described him as a credible representative who understands the struggles of the Bassa people.

One of the stakeholders noted, “We are strongly behind him in every way. He is our own, and we must rally around him.”

Another added, “Some of us here are old politicians, and we are happy today. We finally have someone who can speak out for us. This is not a personal fight but a fight for the people. Collective struggle brings collective results.”

A third speaker stressed on the unity displayed at the meeting, which according to him, “This gathering has no party coloration—we are talking to ourselves as a people. We feel the pain of marginalization, and we must not allow ourselves to be divided. Whoever emerges, let us join hands together.”

The stakeholders later prayed for Dr. Diche, thanking God for giving Bassa a son committed to championing their cause.

Zainab Abdullahi of the Tinubu Hope Initiative also prayed for a stronger political and financial base for the Bassa people, urging continued unity ahead of the election.

Nasser International Actively Participates in the 2025 Pan-African Youth Forum

Nasser International Forum participated in the activities of the Pan-African Youth Forum 2025, hosted by the Republic of Djibouti and organized by the African Union Commission from 4 to 6 November 2025 under the theme “From Ambition to Action: Youth as Catalysts for Sustainable Development.” This participation reaffirms the forum’s active role in youth diplomacy at the African level, within the framework of supporting Africa’s Agenda 2063 and promoting African integration in the fields of development, innovation, and leadership.

Anthropologist Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Nasser International Forum, stated that Egypt’s participation in this continental event represents an important step toward strengthening youth integration. He noted that Djibouti holds a symbolic position as a bridge connecting the Arab and African worlds.

Ghazaly added that the participation of the Nasser International Forum in the Pan-African Youth Forum was diverse and reflected the values and principles upheld by the forum, which are based on pluralism and cross-border cooperation. The delegation included a distinguished group of young people from different backgrounds representing the geographical and cultural scope in which the forum operates.

He explained that the Egyptian delegation included Dr. Mohamed Ezz and Engineer Rowan Al-Omda. It also included from Sudan Engineer Hudhaifa Al-Hassan, from The Gambia the legal expert Bubba Fatty, and from Djibouti the UN activist Malika Elias.

Ghazaly emphasized that this diversity reflects the forum’s commitment to empowering youth from various countries and promoting dialogue and integration among regions through exchanging expertise and perspectives on issues of development, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

For his part, Engineer Hudhaifa Al-Hassan, Secretary-General of the Arab-African Youth Council and a graduate of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, noted that the Arab-African Youth Council organized a panel discussion on the sidelines of the forum titled “The Role of Inclusive Markets and Inclusive Business in Achieving Regional Integration.” The session addressed the role of Arab and African youth in shaping the continent’s future through building inclusive markets and businesses that enhance opportunities for sustainable development and empower young people economically and socially.

The delegation members also stressed during the forum’s sessions the importance of shifting from individual initiatives to regional cooperation networks capable of creating lasting economic and social impact. They presented their vision regarding the opportunities and challenges facing the establishment of inclusive markets in Africa, along with real-world experiences from projects of the Nasser International Forum and the Arab-African Youth Council that aim to build youth capacities and empower them economically and socially through supporting entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

It is worth noting that the Nasser International Forum is a leading platform that embodies a comprehensive vision for promoting cooperation in the field of public diplomacy. Its foundations gradually took shape starting in 2019. The forum encompasses a range of youth programs and initiatives designed to build bridges of cultural communication and exchange expertise. Among its key initiatives are the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, the Nasser Youth Movement for Bilateral Relations Development, the National Vanguard School, the Nasser Social Platform (experimental), and the official website. Together, these initiatives form an effective model that combines thought and practice in preparing leaders capable of contributing to development and international cooperation.

Defence Minister Flags Off 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, Says Over 13,000 Terrorists Neutralized Under Tinubu Administration

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar (CON, mni), has officially flagged off activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to honouring the courage and sacrifices of the nation’s troops while strengthening military operations across all fronts.

Speaking during a press briefing held at the Sani Abacha Hall of the National Defence College in Abuja, Abubakar disclosed that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Armed Forces have recorded landmark achievements in the war against insecurity.

He revealed that troops have neutralized over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arrested more than 17,000 suspects, and rescued close to 10,000 hostages from insurgent captivity.

The Minister added that over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants, alongside their families, have surrendered to Nigerian troops. According to him, these coordinated operations have dismantled terrorist strongholds, neutralized notorious commanders, and restored peace to hundreds of communities, allowing displaced persons to return to their homes.

Abubakar noted that the Ministry of Defence, under President Tinubu’s direction, has achieved significant operational milestones through improved synergy among the Services and other security agencies. He said the government’s intensified efforts have contributed to enhanced national security and renewed public confidence in the Armed Forces.

The Minister explained that the administration’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s vital economic assets is evident in the South-South region, where over 1,900 illegal refining sites have been destroyed, leading to a considerable reduction in crude oil theft and maritime-related crimes.

He, however, cautioned that remnants of criminal elements still pose a threat to national peace and security, emphasizing that the President has directed the Ministry and the Armed Forces to sustain and intensify ongoing operations until all remaining threats are eliminated.

Abubakar described the signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act in 2023 as a milestone in indigenous defence production, positioning Nigeria as an emerging hub for military technology in Africa. He said the recent procurement of Armoured Fighting Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and naval vessels has strengthened the nation’s operational readiness and reduced its dependence on foreign imports.

The Minister stressed that the real strength of any military lies not only in its equipment but in its personnel.

He reiterated that troop welfare remains a top priority through the “Soldier First” initiative, which has led to the upward review of the Ration Cash Allowance and significant investments in modernizing barracks to ensure that military personnel live and serve in dignified conditions.

He further disclosed that the government has made remarkable progress in improving healthcare for troops, including the establishment of the Invictus Care Centre for wounded personnel and the upgrade of several military hospitals.

He noted that the payment of ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and the introduction of the Debarment Allowance were clear demonstrations of government’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and dignity of service members and veterans.

Abubakar also revealed plans to launch a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre to enhance service delivery and provide a reliable platform for addressing veterans’ needs efficiently. He said a committee has been constituted to review the Nigerian Legion Act, with the goal of renaming it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) to strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ welfare and reintegration programmes.

The Minister explained that as part of a broader strategic vision, the Ministry is developing a new initiative known as the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme” (RUSEB-P). He said the programme is designed to engage retired but agile military veterans in restoring security and driving economic recovery in previously insurgent-occupied areas. Abubakar stated that by involving veterans in local security, farming, and mining projects, the initiative would help prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and reinforce national unity.

Highlighting the theme of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” the Minister said the commemoration reflects the enduring spirit of heroism, patriotism, and national solidarity that defines Nigeria’s military tradition.

He disclosed that this year’s event would feature a new digital initiative called the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code, which allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of appreciation and tributes to serving and fallen soldiers. The innovation, he explained, aligns with the government’s drive to modernize national engagement through digital inclusion and youth participation.

Abubakar announced that the official launch of the National Emblem Appeal would be conducted by President Tinubu on 27 November 2025, while the main Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony would take place on 15 January 2026 at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously across all states of the federation.

He also noted that the week-long commemoration would feature humanitarian outreach programmes, religious services, a national symposium on security and development, and a fundraising gala in support of the Armed Forces Foundation.

The Minister urged Nigerians to wear the Remembrance Emblem with pride and to support the families of fallen heroes, describing the Armed Forces as symbols of national unity and sovereignty. He appealed to the media to ensure wide coverage of the celebration to inspire patriotism and appreciation for the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women.

Abubakar expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has strengthened defence operations and reinforced the morale of military personnel. He called on citizens to continue supporting the government’s efforts to secure the nation and to remain united in honouring those who serve and protect the country.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a stronger, safer, and more united Nigeria, pledging continued support for the Armed Forces in their mission to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and promote peace.

AAAU, De Montfort University Deepen Partnership Ahead of Faculty of Engineering Launch

Emmanuel Daudu

In a major stride toward advancing aviation and aerospace education in Africa, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has held a high-level preparatory meeting with De Montfort University (DMU), United Kingdom, ahead of the official take-off of its Faculty of Engineering.

The AAAU delegation embarked on a strategic facility tour of DMU’s School of Engineering and Sustainable Development, where discussions centred on faculty development, infrastructure readiness, and technical collaboration. The initiative forms part of AAAU’s broader vision to launch degree programmes in Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering programmes designed to equip Africa’s next generation of aviation professionals with world-class technical expertise and hands-on skills.

Led by AAAU’s Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, the team included Dr. Endurance Keyamo, Head of Department, Aviation Business, and Dr. Joel Adams of the Royal Air Force. They were received by Dr. Richard Cross, Duncan Hepworth, and Dr. John Asu of DMU.

The visit also featured an extensive review of DMU’s laboratories, workshops, and academic facilities to guide the design and implementation of AAAU’s forthcoming Faculty of Engineering infrastructure.

Describing the partnership as “a pivotal step toward global excellence,” AAAU officials emphasized that the collaboration will strengthen international academic ties and ensure that the university’s engineering programmes align with international standards in aerospace education and research.

Airtel vs. Mr. Olakunle Jagun: A Landmark Case on Workplace Discrimination and Corporate Power

Maryam Aminu

In what legal experts are describing as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s fight against workplace discrimination, the National Industrial Court sitting in Lagos has delivered a landmark judgment against telecommunications giant Airtel Networks Limited, awarding a total of ₦150.2 million in damages to Mr. Olakunle Jagun, a long-serving employee living with a disability.


Presided over by Hon. Justice Joyce Damachi, the Court found Airtel guilty of wrongful termination and discrimination against Mr. Jagun, a wheelchair user who had faithfully served the company since 2004. The ruling described Airtel’s conduct as a “clear violation of the Lagos State Special People’s Law 2010” and of Mr. Jagun’s constitutional right to freedom from discrimination under Section 42 of the 1999 Constitution.
The Court ordered Airtel to pay Mr. Jagun:
• ₦99,426,880 as special damages (representing 60 months’ salary),
• ₦50 million as general and exemplary damages, and
• ₦831,874.58 as withheld entitlements between January and October 2023  all within 30 days.


Mr. Jagun’s ordeal began after a health crisis in 2007 left him dependent on a wheelchair. Despite this, he continued to work with distinction, earning commendations and promotions. However, following a second health challenge in 2022, Airtel subjected him to a “wellness test” the result of which was never disclosed to him.
Months later, the company concluded he had “incurred permanent disability” and terminated his employment on October 26, 2023, citing prolonged absence in breach of its leave policy. The court later held that Airtel’s decision was unjust, noting that the company failed to follow due process or disclose the test results which it used as the basis for termination.
Justice Damachi ruled that Airtel “serially breached” its own procedures, replacing fairness with “personal opinion of fairness,” and stressed that denying Mr. Jagun access to his medical report violated his rights and the company’s duty of transparency.


This judgment represents more than one man’s vindication; it exposes a systemic culture where corporate might too often crushes individual rights. It is a classic case of the strong preying on the weak a global corporation using its vast resources to intimidate and silence an employee living with disability.
Airtel’s action and now its decision to appeal the ruling  raises serious questions about corporate ethics, accountability, and the protection of workers’ rights in Nigeria. As a publicly quoted company, Airtel owes its profits and reputation to millions of Nigerians. It must not be allowed to trample on the rights of those very citizens on whose loyalty and labour it thrives.


For decades, countless Nigerians have lost limbs, livelihoods, and even their lives in workplaces without receiving justice or adequate compensation. Too many cases of corporate abuse have vanished into silence  buried under the weight of money, influence, and power.
This case must not go the way of others before it.
Civil society groups, human rights advocates, and Nigeria’s labour organisations must closely monitor the appeal process and ensure that Mr. Olakunle Jagun’s case remains in the public eye. The outcome will set an important precedent  one that determines whether people with disabilities can truly find justice in the face of discrimination and corporate intimidation.
The Bigger Picture
Justice Damachi’s decision stands as a reminder that disability is not inability, and that the law recognizes the dignity and equal rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their physical condition. The Lagos State Special People’s Law 2010 explicitly prohibits discrimination in employment and mandates compensation for workers whose disabilities were sustained in the course of employment a provision the court rightly upheld.


As the case proceeds to appeal, the Nigerian public  and indeed, the world  will be watching to see whether justice for Mr. Olakunle Jagun will stand, or whether another multinational will use its power to bend the scales once again.

Nigeria, Vietnam Seal Strategic Cashew Alliance To Boost Global Trade And Value Addition

Maryam Aminu

In a groundbreaking move set to redefine the global cashew industry, Nigeria and Vietnam have entered into a strategic partnership to revolutionize cashew production, processing, and trade between both nations.

The landmark agreement sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) and the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS) was signed during the 14th VINACAS Golden Cashew Rendezvous 2025, held from October 26–28 in Hanoi, Vietnam, as part of activities marking VINACAS’ 35th anniversary celebration.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, National President of NCAN, described the partnership as a major milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and non-oil export drive. According to him, the MoU will strengthen bilateral trade, encourage technology transfer, and boost competitiveness in the global cashew market.

“This partnership will enhance value addition through modern processing technologies, promote diversification into cashew-based beverages and by-products, and create more jobs for rural communities,” Dr. Ajanaku stated.

He revealed that Nigeria exported $420 million worth of cashew to Vietnam in 2025, expressing optimism that the collaboration would further enhance production efficiency and expand market access for Nigerian products.

A key highlight of the Hanoi conference was the recognition of Kogi Cashew as the most nutritious cashew in the world, a feat that reinforces Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global cashew trade.

Dr. Ajanaku noted that the new partnership will leverage this recognition through innovation, research, and continuous quality improvement.

Under the MoU, both nations will promote trade in raw and processed cashew, facilitate the exchange of processing technologies, encourage joint investments, and advance sustainable farming practices. Vietnam’s technical expertise and advanced machinery, he added, will play a crucial role in expanding Nigeria’s processing capacity and driving economic diversification.

To ensure sustained implementation, both associations agreed to establish a Joint Working Committee that will monitor progress and report outcomes annually.

The signing was witnessed by top Nigerian officials and private sector stakeholders, including Muhammed Tukur Usman (Director, FDA-FMAS), Mr. Babagana Musti (NEXIM Bank), Jude Osilama, Evidence Iyamu, Mr. Victor Omofaiye (DG, KOSCEPA), Alh. Abu Muhammed Kabir (NCAN Financial Secretary), and Tchidi Okike Zacchaeus (Merchant Farmer).

Currently, Nigeria ranks among Africa’s top cashew producers with over 500,000 metric tonnes annually, exporting mainly to Vietnam and India. With the renewed partnership, NCAN projects that Nigeria’s cashew export earnings could exceed $500 million annually, unlocking new opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

NiMet Breaks New Ground with Electric Vehicles at Nigeria’s International Airports

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold move that signals a new era of green innovation in the nation’s aviation sector, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has deployed electric vehicles (EVs) for airside operations across five international airports Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.

This landmark initiative marks the first-ever deployment of EVs in Nigeria’s aviation history, positioning NiMet as a frontrunner in the Federal Government’s drive for sustainable, low-carbon solutions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Each vehicle, capable of traveling up to 200 kilometers on a single charge, will operate within a network supported by dedicated charging stations at the airports, eliminating reliance on fossil fuels while improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

NiMet described the innovation as a strategic leap toward climate-smart operations, ensuring smoother logistics, reduced fuel dependency, and lower maintenance costs. The move is also expected to improve service reliability, timeliness, and energy efficiency in the agency’s weather and aviation support functions.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, and environmental responsibility,” said Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet.

The agency noted that the adoption of EVs will cut carbon emissions, minimize noise pollution, and advance Nigeria’s carbon credit goals, while aligning with international sustainability benchmarks.

Under Professor Anosike’s leadership, NiMet continues to strengthen its role as a regional leader in climate innovation, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand with operational advancement.

Oyetola: South-South Region Holds the Key to Unlocking Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Potential

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has spotlighted Nigeria’s South-South region as the nation’s gateway to maritime prosperity, describing it as the heartbeat of the country’s emerging blue economy revolution.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) led by Ms. Usoro Akpabio, Dr. Oyetola underscored that the region’s long coastline, strategic ports, and vast aquatic wealth make it central to Nigeria’s vision of becoming a global maritime hub.

“The South-South is the anchor of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy future. Its coastline and ports are strategic national assets, and we are determined to modernize and maximize their potential,” he stated.

The Minister revealed that under the Federal Government’s Port Modernisation Programme, key seaports in the region Warri, Rivers, Onne, and Calabar Ports are set for major upgrades, including dredging to a minimum depth of 16 metres to accommodate larger vessels. The initiative, he said, will lower cargo handling costs, attract global shipping lines, and boost Nigeria’s competitiveness within the Gulf of Guinea.

Dr. Oyetola also announced ongoing plans to develop new deep seaports in the region, including the Agge (Bayelsa), Ibom (Akwa Ibom), Bakassi (Cross River), and Bonny (Rivers) Deep Seaports projects expected to transform the logistics landscape, stimulate industrial growth, and create thousands of jobs.

Beyond shipping and trade, the Minister highlighted marine tourism as a major growth frontier for the region. He encouraged state governments to leverage the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to develop tourism assets that can attract both domestic and foreign visitors.

“A thriving coastal tourism sector can generate sustainable income for communities, empower women and youth, and boost regional economies,” Oyetola noted.

He further emphasized that the presence of maritime training institutions such as the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, and the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, reinforces the South-South’s pivotal role in producing skilled manpower for the nation’s expanding maritime industry.

On food security, Dr. Oyetola assured that the Ministry is taking deliberate steps to reduce fish importation by promoting aquaculture and expanding domestic fish production with the South-South serving as the nation’s fishing hub.

He urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, adding that the recently approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy provides a clear roadmap for sustainable ocean governance, investment growth, and wealth creation.

Earlier, the SSDC Managing Director, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, lauded the Minister’s commitment to repositioning the maritime sector, expressing the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry on blue economy projects. She also proposed a joint working team to coordinate and accelerate project delivery across the region.

The delegation included Engr. Chika Chinda, Rt. Hon. Larry Odey, and Hon. Tabitha Salah, members of the SSDC Board.

FG to Empower 7 Million Youths with Dual Vocational and Digital Skills-Olawande

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has announced an ambitious plan to train and empower at least seven million Nigerian youths with dual vocational and digital skills under its renewed drive to build a more innovative and self-reliant generation.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany, at his office in Abuja.

Olawande said the initiative reflects the government’s firm commitment to equipping young Nigerians with industry-relevant skills that foster employability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Our goal is not just to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” the Minister stated.

The Minister revealed that the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) is leading the effort through strengthened partnerships with German and Nigerian institutions to expand access to vocational and digital training nationwide.

He also announced that the Ministry will soon unveil a digital learning platform, modelled after global platforms such as Coursera, to make skill acquisition easier and more accessible to youths across Nigeria.

According to him, the Ministry’s youth development strategy is built on a tripartite framework of Support, Empowerment, and Protection, ensuring every young Nigerian can thrive in a globally competitive environment.

“This collaboration is not just about programmes; it is about building the future of our young people. Together, we can ensure that Nigerian youth are empowered, innovative, and globally competitive,” he added.

Pictorial Caption: 3rd from left: Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; 1st from right: Dr. Matthias Leder, CEO, IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany; 2nd from left: Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Former Minister of Information and Culture; 1st from left: Marina Franca Leder, in a group photograph during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister in his office in Abuja.

In his remarks, Dr. Matthias Leder, Chief Executive Officer of the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth through vocational training and legal labour migration initiatives.

He lauded the Federal Government’s focus on youth skills development, noting that 300 Nigerian youths have already been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project, to be honoured in Lagos on November 12, 2025, after completing their A1 German language level.

Dr. Leder also praised the German dual training model, where apprentices earn from their first day, and called for deeper cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand opportunities for young Nigerians and strengthen bilateral relations.

NiMet, NITDA Forge Strategic Partnership to Deepen ICT Integration in Weather and Climate Services

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s technological backbone for climate and weather forecasting, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) have agreed to collaborate on harnessing the power of ICT for enhanced data management, innovation, and service delivery.

The partnership took shape on Monday, November 3, 2025, when the Director General of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, paid a courtesy visit to the NITDA headquarters in Abuja, where he was received by Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of NITDA. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration and exploring strategic areas of synergy between the two federal agencies.

Welcoming the NiMet team, Mr. Inuwa described the partnership as “long overdue,” but noted that “it’s better late than never.”

He underscored the transformative power of information technology across all professions and reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to deepening the adoption of digital solutions in critical sectors of the economy.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Anosike highlighted that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is “essential to modern meteorological services,” powering accurate weather forecasting, data collection, analysis, and dissemination.

He emphasized that the collaboration will enhance the credibility and efficiency of NiMet’s services across key sectors such as aviation, agriculture, the blue economy, and disaster risk management.

Showcasing NiMet’s growing innovation capacity, Anosike revealed that the agency’s in-house team had developed METEOWIZ, a pioneering weather solution designed and built entirely by NiMet staff the first of its kind in Africa. He noted that with NITDA’s support, this innovation could be standardized and even exported as a proudly Nigerian technological product.

Both agencies agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the partnership, focusing on joint capacity-building initiatives, data management systems, digital transformation projects, and technological innovations. A joint technical committee will also be established to identify and execute collaborative projects aimed at integrating advanced IT solutions into meteorological operations.