INNOVATE AFRICA CONFERENCE 2025: BRINGING TOGETHER AFRICAN LEADERS, INVESTORS, INNOVATORS, AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCIES IN ABUJA

Innovate Africa Corporation, in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria, and ECOWAS, is excited to announce the Innovate Africa Conference 2025. Scheduled for October 23–24, 2025, this prominent event will take place at the renowned ECOWAS Conference Hall in Abuja. Under the theme “Re-Imagining Africa’s Leadership & Investment,”

According to a press release signed by the Founder & CEO, Innovate Africa Corp, Uloma Onyebuchi, this second edition of the conference will unite influential figures who are shaping governance, innovation, investment, and economic development across the continent.
“The conference will gather African heads of state, global leaders, policymakers, business executives, investors, technological innovators, entrepreneurs, academics, and development partners to explore actionable solutions and strategic investments for Africa’s advancement.

“For too long, the narrative surrounding Africa has focused on potential rather than progress. Innovate Africa is here to transform this narrative into one of resilience, opportunity, and evolution,” stated Uloma

While stressing further, “Over the course of two days, attendees can expect a dynamic agenda featuring keynote speeches, fireside chats, investment forums, sector-specific panels, diaspora engagement discussions, startup pitch competitions, and exhibitions—creating exceptional opportunities for high-level networking and deal-making.

“The Innovate Africa Conference 2025 is designed to foster policy reforms, encourage cross-border investments, and enhance Africa’s global standing through collaborative innovation.

“Exhibition space, partnership opportunities, and sponsorship options are currently available. Join us in shaping the future of Africa, led by Africans, for the global community. For inquiries regarding Exhibition, Partnership, and Sponsorship, please reach out to info@innovateafricacorps.com.

“About Innovate Africa Corporation:
Innovate Africa is a pan-African platform dedicated to promoting economic growth, sustainability, and social impact across the continent and its diaspora. We empower African entrepreneurs and institutions through innovation, investment, and inclusive development” Uloma added.

Education Ministry Denounces Smear Campaign Against UBEC Executive Secretary

The Federal Ministry of Education has strongly condemned what it described as a “sponsored smear campaign” targeting the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the Ministry’s attention had been drawn to “libellous” media reports circulated by an unknown group operating under the name Education Rights Activists Coalition (ERAC).

The group had accused Garba of administrative misconduct and disregard for the rule of law claims the Ministry has dismissed as “baseless, misleading, and malicious.”

Dr Alausa described the attacks as a deliberate attempt by “disgruntled individuals” to derail the ongoing reform agenda in basic education under Garba’s leadership.

“Aisha Garba is an internationally recognised education expert with over 24 years of experience, including 15 years at the World Bank. She has brought integrity, competence, and global best practices to UBEC,” he said.

According to the Ministry, Garba’s tenure has seen major strides in access, equity, and quality of basic education. UBEC has constructed nearly 5,000 classrooms, renovated over 3,000, and established nationwide Early Childhood Care and Development centres.

More than five million textbooks and over 350,000 units of school furniture have also been distributed.

In the area of teacher training, over 147,000 educators have been trained in modern teaching methods, and nearly 978,800 have benefitted from Nigeria’s largest-ever Teacher Professional Development initiative.

A major curriculum overhaul to embed digital literacy and entrepreneurship is also underway in partnership with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

The Ministry also noted that reforms introduced under Garba’s leadership have improved the utilisation of the Basic Education Action Plan (BEAP) and the Matching Grant Formula, with ₦78.6 billion accessed by 28 states and the FCT in 2024 alone.

Institutional partnerships have also been strengthened with major development partners, including the World Bank, UNICEF, KOICA, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Over 15,000 community projects have been implemented through the School-Based Management Committee–School Improvement Programme.

The Education Ministry reaffirmed that no financial infractions or breaches have been recorded under Garba’s leadership, and urged the public to disregard what it called “orchestrated falsehoods.”

“We stand firmly with Aisha Garba as she continues her transformational work to deliver quality, safe, and inclusive basic education to Nigerian children,” Dr Alausa said.

NBA Gwagwalada Honours FRC Chairman, Victor Muruako, with Award of Excellence

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Gwagwalada Branch popularly known as the Eagle Bar has honoured the Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, Esq., with an Award of Excellence for his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and his steadfast leadership in promoting fiscal discipline and transparency in Nigeria.

The award presentation took place at the FRC headquarters in Asokoro, Abuja, in a ceremony attended by senior officials of the Commission and a nine-member delegation from the NBA Gwagwalada Branch, led by its Chairman, Barr. Owhor Clever.

Presenting the award, Barr. Clever commended Muruako for his professional excellence, integrity, and transformative leadership at the FRC.

He hailed the Chairman’s efforts in institutionalizing fiscal best practices, describing him as a visionary leader committed to public accountability and national development.

“We are here to celebrate an exemplary public servant whose extraordinary professionalism and achievements in law and governance are legendary,” Barr. Clever said. “We are proud to be associated with such a visionary leader.”

The NBA delegation also used the opportunity to inform the Chairman about key events planned for January 2026, including the annual Law Week, which will focus on mentoring young lawyers in legal professionalism, and a Chief Judge Forum aimed at fostering dialogue among key stakeholders in the legal and judicial space.

Barr. John Adawakum Clement, Secretary of the NBA Gwagwalada Branch, praised the FRC for its recent NYSC Sensitization Programme which he said is playing a crucial role in educating young graduates on fiscal responsibility and economic governance.

He also expressed interest in future collaborations with the Commission to secure expert facilitators for upcoming NBA programmes.

FRC Chairman Victor Muruako, Esq.

In his remarks, FRC Chairman Victor Muruako, Esq., expressed gratitude for the recognition and congratulated the newly elected NBA Gwagwalada leadership.

He described the legal profession as noble and charged lawyers to uphold high ethical standards in both advocacy and governance.

Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to transparency and fiscal prudence as enshrined in the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007, Muruako emphasized the public’s right to demand accountability.

“Section 51 of the FRA makes it clear that every Nigerian has the right to ask questions and demand transparency in governance without needing to show personal interest,” Muruako said.
“As lawyers, you are uniquely positioned to promote good governance. Whether through litigation, advocacy, or civil society engagement, you hold the tools to ensure public funds are managed responsibly.”

The event concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration between the Fiscal Responsibility Commission and the NBA Gwagwalada Branch in the areas of legal education, governance advocacy, and nation-building.

Coalition of Nigerian Youths Applauds Defence Chief for Strategic Leadership and Security Reforms

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigeria Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, for his exemplary leadership, dedication to national security, and strategic efforts in restoring public confidence in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

In a statement released by the organization, CONYSSA hailed General Musa’s tenure as one defined by visionary leadership, proactive military strategy, and people-centered reforms that have significantly improved operational efficiency and civil-military relations.

“We are proud of the decisive and gallant posture of our Armed Forces under the command of General Musa. He has redefined military professionalism and discipline while ensuring troops are properly motivated and equipped across all theatres of operation,” the statement read.

CONYSSA highlighted the improved synergy among security agencies, particularly in the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other threats destabilizing parts of the country. It also commended the success of recent joint operations, especially in the North-Central and North-West zones, which led to the rescue of kidnapped victims, recovery of arms, and the neutralization of criminal elements.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Director-General of CONYSSA, Ambassador Ade Mario Emmanuel, described General Musa as a leader with courage, foresight, and a deep understanding of collaborative security strategies.

“The CDS has shown an unrelenting commitment to engaging traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society, and international partners. This inclusive approach is critical for building national unity and sustainable peace,” he said.

Amb. Emmanuel also praised the ongoing reforms aimed at improving the welfare of military personnel, especially those serving on the frontlines.

“A secure nation begins with a well-catered military. We commend the CDS for prioritizing troop welfare, expanding training opportunities, and promoting inclusive leadership within the ranks,” he added.

Reaffirming its unwavering support for the Nigerian military, CONYSSA pledged to intensify grassroots engagement through sensitization campaigns aimed at promoting community vigilance, peacebuilding, and intergenerational dialogue across all states .

The coalition further urged political leaders, religious institutions, and community stakeholders to support the military’s patriotic mission by fostering intelligence-sharing, youth involvement, and sustained dialogue as key pathways to long-term security and peace across the country.

NSCC, PTAD Forge Strategic Partnership to Enhance Welfare of Senior Citizens

Emmanuel Daudu

In a significant stride toward promoting dignity, inclusion, and improved welfare for older persons across Nigeria, the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) and the Pensions Transitional Arrangements Directorate (PTAD) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at deepening collaboration and delivering better outcomes for pensioners and senior citizens.

The landmark partnership was formalized during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of PTAD, Ms. Tolulope Odunaiya, to the Director General of NSCC, Hon. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe, at the NSCC Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, August 4, 2025.

R-L The Executive Secretary of PTAD, Ms. Tolulope Odunaiya and the Director General of NSCC, Hon. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe

As part of the agreement, both agencies will establish a Joint Working Group to guide coordinated action across critical focus areas, including data sharing and joint interventions, nationwide stakeholder engagement, innovations for healthy and productive ageing, pensioners’ welfare and advocacy, medical outreach, distribution of assistive devices, nutrition campaigns, and the comprehensive profiling of older persons nationwide.

Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Akinyemi-Obe hailed the partnership as a demonstration of shared commitment to the dignity and well-being of Nigeria’s elderly population.

She reiterated the NSCC’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing her administration’s focus on empowering senior citizens to remain vital contributors to national development.

“The NSCC is committed to policies and programs that protect and amplify the voices of our older citizens. This partnership will allow us to scale impact and reach those who need us the most,” she said.

In her remarks, PTAD Executive Secretary Tolulope Odunaiya reaffirmed her agency’s commitment to pension justice, noting that PTAD’s mission remains “to ensure one pensioner equals one pension paid correctly, to the right person, at the right time.” She also highlighted ongoing federal reforms aimed at strengthening the Defined Benefit Scheme for fairness and efficiency.

Odunaiya praised the NSCC for spearheading innovative platforms like the Continuing Engagement Bureau, which promotes the reintegration of senior citizens into productive national life. She noted that PTAD’s initiatives including biometric verification, digital pension tracking, the I Am Alive confirmation process, and nationwide stakeholder forums align with NSCC’s holistic vision of ageing with dignity.

Both leaders pledged sustained cooperation to ensure that Nigeria’s senior citizens are not only living longer but also living better with dignity, purpose, and the full recognition of their contributions to society.

Group photograph

PRESS RELEASE: MUSAWA CONGRATULATES D’TIGRESS ON THEIR RECORD-BREAKING AFROBASKET CHAMPIONSHIP WIN

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa has congratulated Nigeria’s esteemed women’s basketball team, the D’Tigress, on their historic achievement of winning the Afrobasket for a record five consecutive times.

Again, Minister Musawa who watched the final match live with the Minister of Women Affairs Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim and the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, commended the team for their outstanding performance in Sunday’s final, which saw them defeat Mali 78-64 at the Palais de Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. She said the remarkable victory is a testament to the team’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional skill.

Minister Musawa noted that the D’Tigress’s achievement is not only a triumph for the team but also a source of pride for Nigeria, showcasing the country’s rich sporting talent and potential on the global stage. She said that the team’s success will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of Nigerian sports enthusiasts especially young female athletes to make Nigeria proud.

“I am thrilled to see the D’Tigress bring home the Afrobasket trophy for a record-breaking fifth consecutive time! Their victory is a testament to the power of determination, teamwork, and Nigerian excellence. I congratulate each member of the team, their coaches, and everyone who has supported them on this incredible journey. This achievement will inspire a new generation of Nigerian athletes and the federal government looks forward to celebrating their triumph upon their return to Nigeria.”

The team will be honored by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, for their remarkable achievement.

NNEKA IKEM ANIBEZE, Ph.D.
SA MEDIA & PUBLICITY
FMACCE/PS/ 113
04-08-2025

RMAFC Chair Urges ACTU Members to Uphold Integrity, Accountability

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to institutional transparency and accountability as it commenced a two-day induction and orientation training for newly inaugurated members of its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in Nasarawa State.

Declaring the training open on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Mohammad Bello Shehu, the Director of Human Resource and Administration, Mr. Rabiu Kabir, charged the participants to embody the values of integrity, responsibility, and national service in the discharge of their duties.

“ACTU’s mission to promote transparency and a corruption-free system aligns perfectly with our mandate,” Dr. Shehu noted, emphasizing that the collaboration between RMAFC and ACTU will strengthen good governance practices across the Commission.

He also described the period as a transformative phase for the Commission, following the recent signing of the RMAFC Bill into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Dr. Shehu underscored the importance of demonstrating the Commission’s core values of fairness, justice, and equity, particularly in light of this milestone.

In his closing remarks, Secretary of the Unit, Mr. Mohammed Bashir Umar, who represented the ACTU Chairman, described the training as a success. He commended the participants for their active involvement and emphasized the importance of timely application of extant rules and alerting management to areas of inefficiency.

“ACTU is a special unit. Each of us has a duty to correct any abnormality we encounter,” Umar stated, urging members to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining ethical standards within the system.

The training covered critical areas such as:

Budget Monitoring and Implementation

Conduct of System Study and Review by ACTU

Overview of the ACTU Standing Order

Ethics and Integrity Compliance Study

The event further reinforces RMAFC’s commitment to upholding transparency, equity, and accountability in public service delivery.

Command Secondary School Suleja Celebrates Graduation of Over 270 Students, Launches Student-Authored Book

Maryam Aminu

It was a day of joy, reflection, and celebration as over 270 students of Command Secondary School (CSS), Suleja, Niger State, bowed out in grand style after six years of rigorous academic and character training.

The 2025 graduation ceremony, held on Wednesday at the school premises, was marked by a colorful speech and prize-giving event, alongside the official launch of a book authored by the graduating class.

The Acting Commandant of the school, Lt. Col. Rufia Aliyu, in his address, acknowledged the hard work, dedication, and resilience displayed by the students throughout their academic journey.

“This graduation ceremony is more than a tradition it’s a platform to celebrate excellence, launch books written by our students, and reward diligence among both students and staff,” he said .

“We thank Almighty God for granting us the mandate to teach, guide, and counsel these young leaders of tomorrow. We are proud of their achievements and confident that they are ready to compete and thrive anywhere in the world.”

Lt. Col. Aliyu highlighted the school’s remarkable progress in both academics and infrastructure, noting that CSS Suleja has consistently produced students with excellent results in external examinations.

He expressed gratitude to parents and guardians for their unwavering support over the years.

Turning his attention to the graduating students, the Commandant offered heartfelt words of encouragement. “You’ve grown in knowledge and in character, now you face the world. Remember the values we have instilled in you which includes, respect, integrity, discipline, and resilience. These will guide you through the next phase of life.”

In his keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Professor Isa Garba, Provost of the Nigerian Defence Academy, urged the graduating students to embrace skills acquisition alongside their academic pursuits.

He emphasized that in today’s world, every discipline be it economics, engineering, agriculture, or technology requires relevant practical skills to succeed.

“Skill acquisition is no longer optional; it is essential,” he said. “Globally, success is now defined not just by what you know, but by what you can do with what you know. Learn a skill related to your field of interest and let it complement your academic studies.”
Professor Garba identified leadership, discipline, curiosity, ethics, and integrity as critical traits for success.

He advised students to ask questions, stay curious, and continuously improve through reading and writing.

While he therefore cautioned against the misuse of social media and digital tools such as phones and laptops, which he noted contributed to academic decline when used irresponsibly, he encouraged students to leverage social media and the internet as tools for learning and personal development.

The professor further advised parents to support their children in pursuing careers of their own choice, rather than imposing choices upon them: “I appeal to parents please allow your children to follow their passions. When children study what they love, they thrive,” he said.

The event ended on a high note with cheers from proud parents, staff, and friends who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class.

As the students step into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the values, discipline, and vision nurtured within the walls of Command Secondary School Suleja.

RMAFC, NSCC Advocate Bold Reforms for Dignified Aging in Nigeria

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to address the challenges faced by Nigeria’s growing elderly population, the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), in collaboration with the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), has called for bold institutional reforms to secure a dignified and inclusive aging system in the country.

The call was made at the maiden edition of the Healthy Ageing Symposium, Exposition and Awards, held at the Dr. M. B. Shehu Auditorium, RMAFC Headquarters in Abuja. The event, themed “Ageing with Dignity and Working with Purpose,” was organised by the Centre for African American Research Studies (CAARS) in partnership with DCL Africa and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka, lauded the initiative, describing it as a timely and transformative intervention.

He noted that the choice of theme reflected growing national awareness of the plight of senior citizens and stressed the need for grassroots-oriented, sustainable solutions.

“The cost of accessing quality healthcare has exceeded the income capacity of the average Nigerian, thereby impacting negatively on life expectancy,” Agaka said. “Reliable health information and community-based preventive care could translate to significant savings and improved wellbeing for millions.”

He added that RMAFC’s decision to host the symposium underscored its commitment to ensuring a healthy and productive workforce across all ages.

Delivering the keynote address, Director-General of NSCC, Dr. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe represented by Dr. Ahmed Tijjani Ajayi called on policymakers to urgently address systemic issues affecting the elderly. “Too many older persons face poverty, isolation, neglect, and a profound loss of dignity. Dignified aging is not a privilege; it is a right,” he said.

Dr. Ajayi outlined seven key pillars critical to building a responsive aging system in Nigeria: legal and policy reforms, sustainable financing, community-based infrastructure, geriatric workforce development, integration of technology, and promotion of social inclusion.

He also highlighted several ongoing NSCC programmes, including the Geriatric Social Care Community Extension Services, Medical Housing Projects, and the Assistive Devices Distribution Initiative.

He disclosed that the NSCC is working with the National Assembly and Institute of Justice to harmonize elder protection laws and develop an enforceable national aging policy.

Representative of Director General NSCC, Dr. Ahmed Tijjani Ajayi delivering the keynote address at the Symposium

A digital literacy programme was also announced, aimed at empowering elderly citizens with basic technology skills through youth-led volunteer efforts. In addition, older persons are now being engaged as ambassadors in sanitation and environmental campaigns across communities.

“We must change the narrative older people are not burdens, they are national assets,” Dr. Ajayi emphasized.

The symposium featured technical paper presentations by experts including:

Dr. Maimouna Diop Ly, an authority on nutrition and longevity,

Dr. Mories Atoke, CEO of ABC Health, who presented innovations in geriatric healthcare delivery, and

Dr. Hanem Abdelraouf, who spoke on gender-sensitive eldercare in African and Middle Eastern societies.

The event attracted policymakers, health experts, development partners, and civil society stakeholders, all united in their resolve to champion the rights, welfare, and dignity of Nigeria’s senior citizens.

Dr. Mories Atoke, CEO ABC Health delivering her paper at the Symposium

FG, OGP Stakeholders Deepen Collaboration to Promote Governance, Youth Values, and Accountability

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to open governance, transparency, and youth development through strengthened collaboration with civil society and the Open Government Partnership (OGP) initiative.

At a high-level engagement held in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development and Co-Chair of Nigeria’s OGP, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships between government institutions and non-state actors in fostering transparency, accountability, and civic engagement.

“The OGP platform has consistently proven to be an effective mechanism for sustained engagement between Ministries and non-state actors,” Olawande said. “The progress we’ve made would not have been possible without the dedication of the OGP Secretariat and our civil society stakeholders.”

The Minister praised the guidance of elder statesmen and civil society leaders, describing their mentorship as pivotal to the Ministry’s achievements.

He also lamented what he described as a growing departure from shared values and ethical leadership among the youth.

The Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and Co-Chair of the Global Open Government Partnership (OGP), Comrade Ayodele Olawande (center), poses for a group photograph with OGP Global CEO Aiden Eyakuze (right) and Non-State Actor Co-Chair Stephanie Muchai (left).

“Nigeria’s problem is not a lack of accountability structures, but a gradual erosion of our shared values,” he stated. “We must reawaken our young people to the importance of ethics, integrity, and national service. A society that neglects its values is a society at risk.”

In his remarks, Mr. Soji Apampa, the incoming Global OGP Co-Chair, acknowledged the Minister’s dedication and reaffirmed the stakeholders’ commitment to strengthening the OGP initiative in Nigeria.

“We appreciate the Honourable Minister’s leadership and look forward to meaningful progress, especially in finalizing the National Action Plan and ensuring presidential assent,” Apampa said.

Mr. Aiden Eyakuze, CEO of the Global OGP, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stressing the need for inclusive governance and youth value reorientation.

“Accountability tools exist, but the deeper issue is the declining adherence to values that bind society,” Eyakuze noted. “The OGP remains a trusted space for dialogue and joint action. The role of civil society in this journey cannot be overstated.”

The engagement concluded with a unified pledge from both government and civil society representatives to bolster youth participation, enhance governance reforms, and foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and shared national values.