NASENI, Gambia Move to Forge Technology Partnership, Cut Import Dependence

By Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s drive to strengthen indigenous technology and reduce Africa’s dependence on imported capital goods received a boost on Wednesday as the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Government of The Gambia moved to establish a broad technology and skills-development partnership.

The two sides agreed to develop a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering technology development, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), research, innovation, skills development, technology transfer and commercialisation.

The development followed a high-level experiential learning visit by The Gambia’s Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, and his delegation to NASENI headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

During the visit, NASENI showcased its technology ecosystem, research capabilities and network of specialised development institutes, while the Gambian delegation received briefings on the agency’s interventions in renewable energy, agricultural mechanisation, electronics, power systems, advanced manufacturing, scientific equipment, aeronautics, solid minerals, machine tools, drone technology and other emerging fields.

The delegation had earlier visited selected NASENI facilities, including the Centre of Excellence and NASENI Solar Energy Limited (NSEL).

Representing NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Director, Technology Business Development and Special Adviser on General Matters to the EVC/CEO, Engr. Ozigi O. Benard, said the agency was positioned to serve as a technology development, transfer and commercialisation platform for Nigeria and other African countries seeking to build indigenous technological capacity.

Benard explained that NASENI operates through a network of specialised Development Institutes, providing an integrated platform for research and development, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, technical training, technology transfer and commercialisation.

He said the agency’s strategic direction was anchored on the 3Cs — Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation, with increasing emphasis on moving research outputs beyond laboratories and prototypes into the marketplace.

According to him, NASENI had identified several areas with strong potential for cooperation with The Gambia, including renewable energy and solar photovoltaic systems, power electronics, embedded systems, industrial automation, agricultural engineering, advanced manufacturing, scientific equipment, materials development, aeronautics, drone technology, solid minerals processing and technical skills development.

He added that NASENI had strengthened partnerships with universities, polytechnics, research institutions and indigenous private-sector companies to support curriculum development, technical training, certification, joint research, technology development and the commercialisation of locally developed technologies.

Benard further said the agency’s commercialisation drive had recorded significant progress since the assumption of office of the EVC/CEO in 2023.

Earlier, Prof. Gomez said The Gambia was seeking to transform its higher education and TVET ecosystem through practical learning, institutional partnerships and stronger African cooperation.

He said the delegation came to Nigeria to learn from NASENI’s practical approach to research, development, manufacturing and technology transfer, with the intention of adapting relevant models to The Gambia.

The proposed cooperation represents a significant step towards stronger African collaboration in technology development, skills acquisition and the commercialisation of locally developed innovations, particularly in sectors critical to economic and industrial development.

Other members of the NASENI team at the meeting included the Acting Managing Director, Solid Minerals Machinery and Equipment Development Institute (SOMMEDI), Prof. Ikyo Barnabas Achakpa; Overseeing Officer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Minna, Dr. Mahmoud Jafar; Coordinator, Implementation Management Office (IMO) and Special Adviser on Institutional Reforms, Mr. Yusuf Kasheem; and other officials.

NASENI Empowers Osun Youths, Women with Skills, Equipment for Economic Independence

By Maryam Aminu

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has equipped youths and women in Ile-Ife, Osun State, with advanced technical skills and work equipment, in a move aimed at helping beneficiaries build sustainable businesses, create jobs and achieve economic independence.

The intervention was delivered under the Agency’s NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP) during a three-day training held from August 7 to 9, 2026, at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Centre, Ile-Ife.
Beneficiaries were trained in advanced photography and drone operations, shoemaking, CCTV and inverter installations, and tailoring, with participants receiving practical knowledge and equipment to enable them to immediately apply their skills and establish or expand income-generating ventures.

Chief Executive Officer NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu

Speaking at the closing ceremony, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by the Overseeing Officer of the Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI), Ilesha, Ahmed Olaoye Hamzat, said the programme was designed to take empowerment beyond the award of certificates.
He said the initiative combined practical skills acquisition with the provision of relevant equipment so beneficiaries could translate their training into sustainable livelihoods and viable enterprises.

According to Halilu, the equipment should be seen as “starter tools” for building businesses rather than mere empowerment items. He urged participants to use their newly acquired skills to provide quality services, train others, create employment and contribute to the development of their communities.

L-R: the Overseeing Officer of Prototype Equipment Development Institute (PEDI) Ilesa, Mr. Ahmed Olaoye Hamzat, who represented the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu and a Special dignitary (3rd from left),  during the presentation of CCTV Installation work tools to the beneficiary of CCTV and Inverter Installations Training at the closing ceremony of the 3 days training at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife Osun State, on 9th August, 2026.

He said the success of NSEP would ultimately be measured by its multiplier effect, noting that a beneficiary who grows a business, employs another young person, trains an apprentice or provides reliable technical services would be advancing the core objectives of the programme.

The NASENI chief executive also reiterated that the Agency’s empowerment interventions are anchored on its 3Cs of Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation, through which it develops innovative solutions, works with stakeholders and communities, and converts technologies, skills and innovations into economic value.

Halilu commended community leaders, trainers, partners and other stakeholders for supporting the programme. He particularly acknowledged the Chairman of the House Committee on NASENI, Hon. Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro, for his partnership and support in expanding technology-driven opportunities for youths and women.

L-R: His Royal Highness Oba Oranfe of Ife, Chief Abiodun Mulatto and His Royal Highness Osogun of Ife, Chief Oladapo Olafiranye (3rd from left) presenting an Industrial sewing machine to one of the beneficiaries of the 3 days Advanced Tailoring Training at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife, Osun State, on 9th August, 2026

Also speaking, Ajilesoro, represented by Felix Olayemi Oruma, commended NASENI for taking the skills acquisition initiative to Ile-Ife, describing the intervention as a practical pathway to economic productivity.

Oruma said the beneficiaries had gained exposure to modern techniques and equipment in tailoring, CCTV and inverter installation, shoemaking, photography and drone operations, which he said would enable them to upgrade their skills and improve professional standards.
He described the programme as a sustainable model of empowerment, saying it was focused on equipping Nigerians with the capacity to become self-reliant rather than providing temporary assistance.

He further commended NASENI for its interventions in innovation, reverse engineering, local assembly and indigenous technology development, noting that the Agency had continued to strengthen its relevance through initiatives that develop human capacity and create economic opportunities.

A Cross section of beneficiaries of the Advanced Tailoring Training with their empowered Industrial sewing machines during the closing ceremony of the 3 days at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife, Osun State on 9th August, 2026

The Ile-Ife intervention forms part of NASENI’s broader effort to promote technology-based skills, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods by linking practical training with the tools required to turn acquired knowledge into productive economic activity.

FG Launches National Youth Content Challenge to Boost Awareness of Opportunities

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has unveiled a nationwide content creation challenge aimed at mobilising young Nigerians to use their creativity and social media influence to connect millions of youths with government-backed empowerment opportunities.

The initiative, known as the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) Youth Opportunities Content Challenge, was launched on Wednesday by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Olawande Emmanuel Ayodele, during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration themed, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

The minister said the interventions are designed to ensure young Nigerians can “see, touch and feel” the impact of government programmes, urging them to use their creativity and digital platforms to help others access opportunities capable of transforming their lives.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, delivering his opening remarks during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja.

Ayodele said the challenge seeks to encourage young Nigerians to identify available government opportunities, understand their benefits and creatively share the information with others who could benefit.
“We are not asking you to praise the Ministry; we are asking you to inform another young Nigerian,” the minister said, noting that details of the competition, including its guidelines, categories, timelines and prizes, would be announced soon.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja.

He said the theme of this year’s International Youth Day reflects the realities of Nigerian youths, who, despite differences in culture, educational background and social circumstances, share common aspirations for opportunity, innovation, success and a peaceful, prosperous nation.

According to the minister, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to translate those aspirations into practical programmes aimed at expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
He disclosed that 239,726 youths have so far acquired digital, employability and other practical skills through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA).

Ayodele added that the government is supporting young entrepreneurs through NiYA StartUp, expanding access to finance under YouthCred, while creating more opportunities through the Youth Agricultural Land Trust Fund and the Presidential Metering Initiative.

Cross-section of participants during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day organised by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja.

He also highlighted the establishment of the Nigerian Youth Help Desk and the ongoing reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing it as the first comprehensive overhaul of the scheme since its creation 53 years ago.

The statement was signed by Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

CONYSSA Urges Nigerian Youths to Champion Peace, Security on International Youth Day 2026

Adejoh Bilkisu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has challenged young Nigerians to take the lead in fostering peace, security and national unity, declaring that the country’s youthful population remains its greatest strength in tackling insecurity and accelerating sustainable development.

The charge was made by the National President of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade-Mario Emmanuel, in a statement signed by Maryam Aminu, Director, Directorate of Media, CONYSSA, marking the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

Describing the annual celebration as more than a recognition of the resilience and achievements of young people, Ade-Mario said it should also serve as a call to action for youths to actively shape a more peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria.

According to him, Nigeria’s quest for lasting peace and sustainable development cannot be achieved without the active involvement of its youth, whom he said have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges.

“Nigeria cannot attain lasting peace and sustainable development without the active participation of its young people. Across our communities, young Nigerians have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges. These qualities must now be channelled towards nation-building, conflict resolution and community development,” he said.

The CONYSSA President urged young Nigerians to shun violence, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, cybercrime, drug abuse, ethnic and religious intolerance, hate speech and every other act capable of undermining the country’s peace and stability.

He instead encouraged them to embrace dialogue, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility and active participation in community-based initiatives that promote safety, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

Ade-Mario stressed that safeguarding Nigeria’s security is a collective responsibility, insisting that every citizen, particularly young people, has a role to play in building safer communities.
“Every young Nigerian has a role to play in safeguarding our communities. National security is not the exclusive responsibility of security agencies; it is a shared responsibility that demands patriotism, vigilance, mutual respect and collective action. Our future depends on the choices we make today,” he stated.

While acknowledging the remarkable achievements of Nigerian youths in entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, sports, public service and the creative industry, he expressed concern that millions still grapple with unemployment and limited access to opportunities.

He therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, development partners, private sector organisations and civil society groups to deepen investments in education, skills acquisition, innovation, job creation and leadership development, describing youth empowerment as one of the most effective pathways to national security and sustainable development.

According to him, creating an enabling environment for young people to realise their full potential would transform them into partners in national development rather than victims of socio-economic circumstances.

The CONYSSA President reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to promoting youth participation in peacebuilding, security advocacy, policy dialogue and community engagement through sustained awareness campaigns, leadership development initiatives and strategic partnerships with government institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders.

He also commended young Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, other security and emergency agencies, healthcare institutions, educational establishments, humanitarian organisations and various sectors of the economy, describing their sacrifices as evidence of the patriotism and resilience of the nation’s youth.

“As we commemorate International Youth Day 2026, let this occasion inspire every young Nigerian to become a bridge-builder, a problem-solver and a champion of peace. Together, we can build a nation where security is strengthened, opportunities are expanded and every young person has the platform to succeed,” he said.

He added that CONYSSA would remain steadfast in mobilising Nigerian youths towards building safer communities, strengthening national unity and advancing sustainable development.

Amb. Ade-Mario concluded with a congratulatory message to Nigerian youths on the occasion of the 2026 International Youth Day, urging them to remain united in promoting peace, patriotism and responsible citizenship for the nation’s progress.

DUNAMIS: Iranian Man shares testimony on how he met, married American women after Dunamis Encounter

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC — A remarkable testimony of love, faith and what was described as divine intervention has emerged from the ongoing Czech Republic Revival Fire Crusade, as the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, recounted the story of an Iranian man who reportedly met and later married an American woman following an encounter at a Dunamis programme.

The man, identified as Reza, had reportedly travelled from Germany to Abuja, Nigeria, to attend the 2025 Kingdom Power and Glory World Conference at the Glory Dome, headquarters of Dunamis International Gospel Centre.

According to the testimony shared by Dr Enenche during the Prague crusade, Reza attended the programme with a strong desire for God’s intervention in his life. He was reportedly seeking freedom from longstanding spiritual battles and trusting God for a breakthrough in his marital life.

Following his experience at the programme, Reza later met Jessica, an American woman. The relationship subsequently progressed, culminating in their marriage.

Dr Enenche shared the account as part of the ongoing Revival Fire Crusade in Prague, where worshippers have gathered for Christian teaching, prayer, worship and evangelistic outreach.

The testimony drew attention among participants, with the story presented as an illustration of faith, hope and the possibility of unexpected transformation.

The Prague crusade, led by Dr Paul and Dr Mrs Becky Enenche, has featured messages centred on salvation, healing, deliverance, restoration and spiritual renewal, alongside testimonies from participants and worshippers.

For Reza, his journey from Germany to Abuja and his eventual meeting with Jessica has become a personal testimony that he associates with his faith and experience at the Dunamis programme.

Sharing the testimony before the Prague congregation, Dr Enenche emphasised the theme of divine possibility, underscoring the Christian belief that circumstances considered impossible can be transformed through faith in God.

The account has since become one of the notable testimonies associated with the Czech Republic Revival Fire Crusade, as the evangelistic programme continues to draw participants seeking spiritual renewal and personal transformation.

Dr Pastor Paul and Dr Becky Enenche Ignite Revival Fire in Prague with Powerful Crusade

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC — Senior Pastors of Dunamis International Gospel Centre (DIGC), Dr Paul and Dr Mrs Becky Enenche, have intensified their global evangelistic outreach with a series of powerful Revival Fire Crusades in Prague, Czech Republic, drawing worshippers and seekers into an atmosphere of salvation, healing, deliverance, restoration and spiritual renewal.

The crusade, which commenced in Prague amid strong expectations, has been characterised by vibrant worship, fervent prayers, biblical teaching and testimonies of transformed lives.

Upon arrival in the Czech capital, Dr Paul Enenche declared that Prague was set to experience a fresh move of the Holy Spirit.

“The wait is over! We have arrived in Prague, Czech Republic, for the Czech Republic Revival Fire Crusade. The city of Prague is about to experience the move of the Spirit. Hearts are about to be stirred, lives are about to be transformed, and Prague will become a meeting point for hungry hearts and the manifest power of God,” he said.

The first two days of the crusade witnessed what organisers described as a remarkable manifestation of God’s power, with participants responding to the message of salvation and sharing testimonies of healing, deliverance and renewed hope.

Day One marked what was described as a significant opening to the programme, as worshippers gathered with a strong desire for spiritual renewal. The atmosphere was characterised by worship, prayer and the preaching of God’s Word, with participants seeking deeper encounters with God.

The second day sustained the momentum, as the congregation gathered in an atmosphere of faith and expectation. Through worship, prayer and biblical exhortation, participants were encouraged to believe for transformation and restoration.

Several attendees reportedly testified to experiences they attributed to divine intervention, particularly in areas of healing, deliverance and personal restoration.

A major highlight of the meetings was the testimony of an Iranian national, Reza, whose story was presented as an example of what organisers described as the transforming power of faith.

Reza, who grew up in an environment where occult practices and spiritual oppression were prevalent, had attended the Kingdom Power and Glory World Conference 2025 at the Glory Dome in Abuja, Nigeria, after travelling from Germany. He reportedly attended the programme seeking freedom from longstanding spiritual battles and a breakthrough in his marital life.

According to the testimony shared during the Prague crusade, Reza subsequently met and married Jessica, an American woman. His story was presented to the congregation as a testimony of answered prayer, restoration and what the organisers described as the possibility of overcoming seemingly impossible circumstances.

The crusade also featured moments of intense worship, intercessory prayers and personal testimonies, with participants recounting experiences they associated with healing, deliverance and renewed faith.

The Enenches’ global evangelistic ministry has continued to place emphasis on soul-winning, spiritual revival and the restoration of human lives, while also promoting compassion, community impact and the transformation of individuals and societies.

The Prague meetings are part of the wider global evangelistic activities of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre, with the organisers expressing optimism that the ongoing programme will contribute to renewed spiritual interest and Christian revival across the Czech Republic.

As the Revival Fire Crusade continues, expectations remain high among participants, with organisers projecting further testimonies of salvation, healing, deliverance and life transformation in the days ahead.

Defence Minister Salutes APC Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda at 58, Praises Leadership

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) OFR, has congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on his 58th birthday, praising his leadership and contributions to democratic governance and national development.

In a goodwill message signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Musa described Professor Yilwatda as a committed patriot whose leadership, integrity and service have continued to inspire confidence while promoting unity across the country.

The Minister said the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Nigeria joined family, friends and associates in celebrating the APC National Chairman on the occasion of his birthday.

He noted that Professor Yilwatda’s leadership of the ruling party has contributed to political stability and institutional harmony, which he described as critical to strengthening national security and advancing sustainable development.

General Musa also prayed for God’s continued guidance, sound health, wisdom, courage and long life for the APC National Chairman as he continues to serve the party, the nation and humanity.

NiMet Secures ISO 9001:2015 Certification for Aero-Met Services at Three Airports

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has secured ISO 9001:2015 certification for its Aeronautical Meteorological (AeroMet) services at Yola, Osubi and Owerri airports, in another major step towards strengthening safety, quality and international standards in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The certification followed a directive by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, to the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations and sustain the upward movement of Nigeria’s ratings with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The three airports successfully met the requirements of NiMet’s ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System for the provision of aeronautical meteorological services to the aviation industry following a rigorous third-party audit conducted by Certech Inc., Canada.

The audit, which was conducted from July 20 to 23, 2026, covered NiMet’s products, processes and services provided to airlines and other aviation stakeholders at the three airports.

At the end of the exercise, Certech confirmed that NiMet’s services and operational processes were in conformity with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

The latest achievement is particularly significant because it represents the first ISO 9001:2015 certification audit of NiMet’s AeroMet products and services at Yola, Osubi and Owerri airports, with all three locations successfully meeting the required international standards.

Eight Airports Now Covered

The development also comes on the heels of NiMet’s successful recertification to the ISO 9001:2015 standard at five other major airports in the country.

The airports are Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja; Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano; Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja; Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu; and Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.

With the latest certification and recertification exercises, NiMet’s ISO 9001:2015 certification for the provision of meteorological services to the aviation industry now covers eight major Nigerian airports.

They are Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos; Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano; Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja; Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu; Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa; Yola Modibbo Adama International Airport; Sam Mbakwe International Airport, Owerri; and Osubi Airport.

The ISO certification is valid for three years and is subject to annual surveillance and maintenance audits, with the next recertification scheduled for 2029.

Certech Confirms Successful Audit

In a letter dated July 26, 2026, and addressed to the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, Certech Inc.’s Lead Auditor and Director, Frank Strohmeier, confirmed the successful completion of the audit.

The letter, titled “ISO 9001:2015,” stated that the objectives of the surveillance audit had been achieved.

According to Strohmeier, “A systematic process audit was performed with emphasis on risks and objectives per ISO 9001:2015.”

Following the successful third-party assessment, Certech Inc. Canada issued a revised certificate confirming that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s quality management system conforms to the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 for the provision of meteorological services to the aviation industry.

The certification is expected to further strengthen confidence in the quality, reliability and consistency of meteorological information provided by NiMet to airlines and other aviation stakeholders.

Anosike Commends QMS Team

Reacting to the development, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed satisfaction with the achievement, while commending the agency’s Quality Management System (QMS) team for its commitment and dedication.

“We are excited about this. Our Quality Management System (QMS) team, led by Rotimi Adenubi, has been working round the clock to achieve this feat,” Anosike said.

He, however, stressed that the agency would not rest on the achievement, noting that management remained focused on continuously improving standards across all NiMet operational locations.

“We are not stopping here as management is focused on overall improvement of standards at all our operational locations,” he added.

The latest certification is expected to contribute to the continued improvement of aviation safety and operational efficiency, particularly through the provision of timely, reliable and quality-assured meteorological information essential for flight planning and air navigation.

The achievement also reinforces NiMet’s ongoing efforts to align its operations with international best practices and support Nigeria’s continued compliance with global aviation and meteorological standards.

Presidential Media Tour Applauds NASENI’s Technological Breakthroughs, Says Tinubu’s Industrial Agenda on Course

By Maryam Aminu

The Presidential Renewed Hope Media Tour has hailed the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for what it described as significant strides in local technology development, saying the agency is playing a pivotal role in driving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s industrialisation agenda under the Renewed Hope programme.

The delegation, led by the Special Adviser to the President on Communication, Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, made the remarks after touring NASENI’s production facilities, where members were taken through a range of locally developed technologies and manufacturing projects.

Speaking on behalf of the team, Onanuga described the visit as “impressive,” saying NASENI’s achievements reflect the potential of Nigerian youths to compete globally when provided with the right leadership and support.

L-R: Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris Malagi (4TH from right); Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare 95th from right); Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media,Otega Ogra (3rd from right) and other special dignitaries during the Presidential Communication Team’s Renewed Hope National Media Tour to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure at Idu Industrial Area Abuja on 4th August 2026.

He also commended the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, for the transformation recorded by the agency.

In his presentation, Halilu said sustainable industrial growth is not dependent on producing goods that are entirely locally sourced but on strategic technology development, innovation and partnerships that strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity.

According to him, NASENI is focused on developing commercially viable innovations capable of creating jobs, reducing production costs and supporting the Federal Government’s Nigeria First Policy.

He said the agency is also advancing technology transfer, commercialisation of research outcomes and mentorship for innovators through initiatives such as the Innovate Naija Challenge, which offers a ₦500 million prize fund to support and scale promising indigenous innovations.

L-R: the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Senior Special Assistant to the President on media and special duties, Mr. Tunde Rahman and Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga during the Presidential Communication Team’s Renewed Hope National Media Tour to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure in Abuja on 4th August 2026.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, commended NASENI’s achievements and urged the media to intensify coverage of the Federal Government’s programmes and accomplishments across critical sectors.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hajia Hadiza Bala Usman, stressed the importance of strategic communication in promoting government initiatives and encouraged greater patronage of Nigerian-made innovations.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, advocated a policy that would require Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise the procurement of NASENI products and other locally manufactured goods.

Other presidential aides, including Mr. Tunde Rahman, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, and Otega Ogra, Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media, also commended NASENI’s growing partnerships and indigenous technology solutions.

During the inspection, the delegation toured several of the agency’s facilities, including drone technology laboratories, helicopter assembly projects, reverse engineering centres, precision manufacturing units, renewable energy installations, agricultural technology hubs and recycling systems.

The visitors also witnessed the implementation of NASENI’s 3Cs framework: Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation which the agency said is accelerating indigenous manufacturing, technology transfer and industrial innovation across Nigeria.

At the end of the tour, stakeholders called for sustained national campaigns to promote locally manufactured products, strengthen domestic production, reduce dependence on imports and accelerate the implementation of President Tinubu’s industrialisation agenda.

The statement was signed by Segun Ayeoyenikan, Director of Information, NASENI.

Global Tijaniyya Leader Visits Nigeria, Meets Tinubu to Deepen Spiritual, Algeria-Nigeria Ties

Maryam Aminu

The General Caliph of the Tijaniyya Order, Sheikh Sidi Ali Belarabi Tidjani, has begun a high-profile visit to Nigeria, where he met President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reaffirmed the long-standing spiritual and diplomatic ties between Algeria and Nigeria.

The revered Islamic leader, who arrived in Nigeria on Thursday, August 6, 2026, is leading a high-level delegation from the General Caliphate in Aïn Madhi, Algeria, on a visit aimed at strengthening the relationship between the Mother Zawiya in Algeria and Tijaniyya Zawiyas across Nigeria and the wider West African region.

As part of the visit, Sheikh Sidi Ali Belarabi Tidjani, accompanied by members of the Tijaniyya Supreme Council, met President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Friday, August 7, 2026.
During the meeting, the General Caliph highlighted the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Algeria and Nigeria, noting that both countries possess significant potential to deepen bilateral relations. He also offered prayers for lasting peace, unity and love in Nigeria, as well as for the physical and spiritual well-being of President Tinubu.

The visit includes an extensive tour of Tijaniyya Zawiyas in Abuja, Kano, Bauchi and other parts of the country, where the delegation will inspect centres dedicated to the teaching of Islamic sciences, jurisprudence and the foundational principles of the Tijaniyya Order.

Sheikh Sidi Ali Belarabi Tidjani is also scheduled to participate in this year’s celebration marking the birth of Sheikh Sidi Ahmed Tidjani, which is being hosted in Kano. The programme will further feature religious, cultural and spiritual engagements, as well as meetings with government officials and prominent community leaders.

The Tijaniyya Order is regarded as one of the world’s most influential Sufi brotherhoods, with an estimated 400 to 500 million followers spread across West Africa, the Maghreb, the Middle East and other parts of the world. Nigeria is home to one of its largest communities of adherents.

Founded in the late 18th century by Sheikh Sidi Ahmed Tidjani (1737–1815), the brotherhood traces its origins to Aïn Madhi in Algeria, where its Mother Zawiya and the institutional headquarters of the Caliphate remain located. The site continues to attract thousands of disciples from across the globe seeking to reconnect with the spiritual roots of the order.

The General Caliph remains the highest spiritual and temporal authority of the Tijaniyya Order, overseeing the unity and activities of its branches worldwide. The position is currently held by Sheikh Sidi Ali Belarabi Tidjani.