In a bid to shape the future of distance education, a delegation from the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) is actively participating in the Research in Distance Education (RIDE) 2025 conference at the University of London.
Led by Professor Yahaya Zayyana Ibrahim, the team joins a distinguished gathering of academics and professionals from around the world.
The event, organized by the Centre for Online and Distance Education, serves as a platform to explore emerging trends and technological innovations in education.
AAAU’s presence at RIDE 2025 underscores its commitment to blended learning and the integration of cutting-edge educational practices.
As the institution continues to advance aviation and aerospace studies, its engagement in such global conversations reinforces its position at the forefront of higher education in the field.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to transparency, accountability, and sustainable reforms, assuring Nigerians that ongoing policies will yield positive outcomes.
Speaking at the fourth edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the importance of open communication between the government and citizens.
He noted that the briefing series was designed to ensure Nigerians receive firsthand updates on government policies and progress.
“This session is an interactive platform leveraging multimedia channels to promote transparency and direct public engagement,” Idris stated.
He added that five ministers have already participated in the series, reinforcing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to openness in governance.
The briefing featured the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. Also present were permanent secretaries, directors, and heads of government agencies.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by ongoing economic reforms, Idris reassured Nigerians that the hardships were temporary. “Our country stands at a critical juncture as President Tinubu implements bold and transformative reforms. Across the world, history has shown that meaningful reforms demand sacrifice, resilience, and a commitment to long-term progress,” he said.
He cited signs of economic improvement, including a reduction in food prices, exchange rate stability, and a gradual decline in petroleum costs.
He also praised the media for their role in informing the public and fostering democratic accountability.
As the country observes Ramadan and Lent, the Minister called on religious leaders to pray for peace, security, and national development. Reflecting on his recent address at the Annual Ramadan Lecture in Kaduna, he highlighted the role of faith in governance. “A nation thrives when its leaders govern with a sense of divine responsibility. President Tinubu leads with the utmost fear of God, guided by the conviction that history will judge his administration favorably,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain united and resilient, assuring them that with collective effort, the country would emerge stronger and more prosperous.
We, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, have recently learned of the disrespectful and abusive comments made by Omoyele Sowore against Christian Leaders in general. This behavior is completely unacceptable
To label our Fathers of Faith and Pastors as failures, uneducated, or jobless is preposterous, egregiously disrespectful, and therefore, unacceptable. The time has come to put an end to Sowore’s incessant attacks on the Christian Faith and her reputable leaders.
It is a shame that he, Sowore has chosen to denigrate the accomplishments and contributions of some of the most revered Fathers of our Faith and Pastors in our country, each of whom has achieved remarkable success in their respective fields. Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Pastor E.A Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, Pastor W.F Kumuyi, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, Pastor D.K Olukoya, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, Dr Pastor Paul Enenche, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Apostle Johnson Suleman, Pastor Poju Oyemade, Apostle Joshua Selman, and Pastor Jerry Eze, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, Pastor Godman Akinlabi, Pastor Emmanuel Iren, Pastor Korede Komaiya and many others that space will fail me to mention, all possess impressive academic achievements, not to talk of their years of service and devotion to their calling.
Sowore should reflect on the fact that these individuals are not only spiritual leaders but also intellectual heavy weights who have earned the respect and admiration of millions of people around the world. Academically, Sowore is a dwarf where most of these men are standing. How can a sane man refer to a First Class graduate of mathematics or a professor of mathematics as uneducated? It is apparent that Sowore’s insults are not grounded in reality but rather in ignorance and hate. His insults are further confirmations that he is an uncouth, uncultured and unlearned man who is desperately seeking attention and relevance. We urge him to rethink his approach and refrain from further attacks against Christianity and her leaders. The Concerned Christian Youth Forum will not stand idly by and watch our Faith and leaders disrespected and maligned by Sowore.
This is to serve a strong note of warning to Omoyele Sowore and his ilk that any further attacks on Christianity or Christian leaders will be met with a stronger response. Sowore should be mindful of the fact that his miguided words and actions have far-reaching consequences, even capable of causing a breakdown of law and order. He should be held accountable for his reckless, rascally and ignoble role in inciting social and religious disturbance in a volatile society such as ours.
In conclusion, we, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, stand in solidarity with our Christian Leaders and our Faith. We will not tolerate any further attacks against them, and we will continue to defend their honor and integrity. We wish to draw the attention of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the potential danger of Sowore’s rascality especially as it borders on religious sensitivity and the implications for national peace and security.
James Paul Adama Converner, CONCERNED CHRISTIAN YOUTH FORUM
The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, unveiling the New Logo of Minaret International University with its features as stated below:
The (MIU) which was licensed by Federal Government of Nigeria and sponsored by Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria and globally.
According to His Excellency UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, The journey for the MIU began in 2016 following a resolution at the annual Shura of Jamaat Nigeria, led by the former Amir of Jamaat Nigeria, Prof Mashuud Adenrele Fasola Sahib.
The Shura proposal came from the Ibadan circuit of the Jamaat; once adopted, it was presented to the World wide Leader of Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during a mulaqat by the Nigerian delegation to the Jalsa UK.
The initial main campus was on 600 hectares of land at Agbonbiti in Ile-Ife. But Ikirun was later considered as the main campus, while Agbonbiti will be the satellite campus solely for the Agriculture and Farm Settlement Project.
The Ikirun site was close to the Federal Government College, connected to the national grid and easily accessible from the newly constructed dual carriageway to the town.
Ikirun has a railway terminus, close to Osogbo, the state capital, which equally has an airport, though not completed yet. With a federal university – Obafemi Awolowo University and Federal University of Health Science, Ila-Oragun with others universities withing the state.
The university will start with three faculties; humanities, sciences and education. The remaining faculties will be added gradually.
This is the first university with both an Islamic and Western education model to be established by the Jamaat.
Ghana had the opportunity of the establishment of a solely theology university years back. As a truly international university, it will draw academicians, researchers and students across the globe. The vision of MIU, is to pursue intellectual and moral development for creativity, entrepreneurship, adaptability and survival of our university graduates. Such a university education for the youth will be designed to promote academic excellence, moral discipline and the spirit of selfless service for the advancement of socio-economic development, the emancipation of the people and commitment to global cooperation for development and unity of humanity.
The mission is to establish a world-class tertiary institution for the intellectual and manpower development of human resources for sustainable socioeconomic development nationally, regionally and internationally.
The university will be committed to giving opportunity to all qualified candidates at home and from abroad based on merit and equity, through a work-study methodology and without any sectarian or racial discrimination.
The philosophy of the university education is a wholesome one that integrates moral and academic excellence for a healthy development of the mind and body in such a manner that the graduate of our university would be of immense benefit and dignity to himself or herself, to the family, the community, the nation and humanity at large.
The university education will focus on environmentally sustainable growth and development of all aspects of agriculture, energy and transportation infrastructure, water, natural resources, manufacturing and processing, management sciences, engineering, communication technology, humanities as well as scientific and technological research relevant to global development problems and challenges.
In precise terms, as a wholly faith-based university, the philosophy implies the following specific principles:
Strict enforcement of moral discipline
Guarding against alcoholism and drug addiction
Banishment of cultism
Infusing theory and practice/work approach through practical entrepreneurship training
Philosophy of students’ research projects
Sports, physical fitness and martial arts The MIU, will be guided by the following aims and objectives:
Offering admission to various academic and professional programmes of the institution based purely on relevant well-defined and universally accepted academic and moral merits
Admission to undergraduate courses in various approved disciplines for all qualified candidates globally
Admission to graduate programmes in various approved disciplines based on well-defined qualifications for distinguished graduate students from the institution and other recognised universities and similar institutions globally
To provide remedial programmes for interested candidates with deficiencies towards meeting the standards required by merit for various programmes
Undertaking and promoting research in areas of environmental and development challenges unilaterally and in cooperation with other research institutions as well as industrial and agricultural establishments
Commercialising research findings through pilot projects for the benefit of small-scale enterprises, and invite interested corporate bodies to participate in the efforts to commercialise research findings
Engaging in intellectual and charitable community services such as community development projects, public policy analysis, debates and career guidance and counseling for prospective university students
Organising academic conferences from time to time to address problems of socio-economic development and environmental challenges
Publications of academic journals and monographs through internal and external publishing outfits
Business ventures and consultancy services relevant to the competence and capacity of the human resources at the disposal of the university for the promotion of the practical and technical orientation of the university.
Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria pioneered Muslim missionary education in Nigeria in 1922 with the opening of the first Muslim primary school, Talim-ul-Islam Primary School Elegbata in Lagos Island, inaugurated by the late Mr Henry Carr, the then Colonial Education officer for the Lagos Colony. Thereafter, the flood gates of Islamic and Western education for teeming Nigerian Muslim children across gender, race and religion commenced, thereby laying a good educational foundation.
The Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria first venture into secondary education followed in the 1950s and 1970s across the country with a special programme called “The Nusrat Jehan Scheme”. Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and The Gambia profited immensely from this scheme. In Nigeria, there are over 20 secondary schools in Lagos, Ibadan, Owode, Ogbagi Akoko, Onda, Ara, Umaisha and Kano.
The primary schools across the country were feeders for the secondary educational institutions for the current and next generation of elites for Nigeria.
Within this period, a wholly Islamic Missionary training College, Jamiatul Mubashireen, was established at Ilaro along Owode road in 1976.
Two schools for the memorisation of the Holy Quran for boys and girls aged 9-13 years, were established in Ilaro. The current Ahmadiyya Science College in Ilaro will metamorphose into a technical college any moment from now, as a team of experts and Ahmadi engineers from London visited the Ogun State Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology recently. Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria was quite methodical in its approach to educational pursuits for better understanding of the religion of Islam, the humanities, science and deep knowledge of the Holy Quran. The educational institutions have produced manpower resources and generated employment for Nigerians.
Minaret International University, obviously, is a great step towards a prosperous, sound and functional education for Nigerians and foreigners as well.
In recent years, the Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPADEC) has served as a vital institution aimed at improving the lives of communities affected by hydroelectric projects in Nigeria. The commission was established to address the socio-economic impacts of power generation on local populations, but it has continued to face numerous challenges in its efforts to enact meaningful developments. A turning point for the commission came when it had Alh. Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwaa at its helm of affairs and this marked a significant turn around for HYPADEC, particularly when compared to the previous leadership that had struggled with bureaucratic inefficiencies and faced challenges in balancing government directives with the urgent needs of local populations. Another evident challenge was the inconsistent ineffectiveness of the commission over the years. Critics often pointed out a lack of clear direction, inadequate funding, and poor stakeholder engagement as key factors inhibiting its progress. During the previous leadership, many projects were either abandoned or poorly executed, leading to dissatisfaction among the communities it was meant to assist. Reports demonstrating the frustration of local communities highlight this disconnect.
However, the commission, Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission was established by an Act of the National Assembly to address ecological challenges from the operations of Hydroelectric Dams, its Act was passed and signed in 2010 while in 2013, the act was amended to include Benue and Plateau states and replaces 30% revenue derived from the total revenue accruing to the companies or authorities operating in the host communities with 10% revenue derived from concessioning of the hydro plants and royalties paid to the Federal Government. In 2016, Amendment II of the HYPPADEC Act took place by reducing the percentage from 30% to 10%, on the total revenue deductible from revenue generated by any company or authority from the operations of any hydroelectric dam, in any member state of the Commission. In 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, constituted Governing Council for the Commission which was inaugurated in December, 2020.
The Mission of the commission is to harness resources in the most transparent, acceptable and cost-efficient manner towards ameliorating the negative effects of hydroelectric dam operations in HYPPADEC member states, with its vision to bring equitable and sustainable development that will impact positively on HYPPADEC member states and its core responsibility of formulating policies and guidelines for the development of hydroelectric power producing areas and managing ecological menace due to operations of dams and other hydroelectric power activities.
When Alh. Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwaa assumed leadership of HYPADEC. His tenure presented an opportunity for revitalising the commission through strategic vision and inclusive policies. Sadiq-Yelwaa, with a background in community development and extensive experience collaborating with numerous stakeholders, prioritised a more interactive and responsive approach to leadership.
He has immeasurably contributed to the harnessing of resources in the most transparent, acceptable and cost-efficient manner towards ameliorating the negative effects of hydroelectric dam operations in HYPPADEC member states, led the formulation of result oriented policies and guidelines for the development of hydroelectric power producing areas, conceived and executed some of the plans aimed at enhancing the commission’s efficiency in accordance to the ethics of his job, projects and programmes for the development of hydroelectric power producing areas, carried out and still carrying out numerous surveys of hydroelectric power producing areas in order to ascent the measure which are necessary to promote its physical development, prepared and still preparing schemes designed to promote the physical developments of hydroelectric power producing areas and estimate the cost of implementing such schemes, implementing measures approved for the development of hydroelectric power producing areas by the Federal Government, identifies factors inhibiting the development of the hydroelectric power producing areas and assist states in the formulation and implementation of policies to ensure sound and efficient management of the resources of the hydroelectric power producing areas, assess and report on any project being funded or carried out in the hydroelectric power producing areas while tackling ecological problems that arise from overloading of dams in the hydroelectric power producing areas and advise federal government on the prevention and control of floods and environmental hazards as well as executing such other work and perform such other functions which in the opinion of the commission, are required for the development of the hydroelectric power producing areas and their people, and obviously carrying out such other functions as the president directs.
One of the most significant changes under Sadiq-Yelwaa’s leadership has been the implementation of policies that align more closely with the needs and concerns of member states. For example, the “One Community, One Project” initiative aims to address distinct challenges faced by each local area, ensuring that developmental efforts are tailored and effective. This initiative contrasts sharply with the previous regime, where projects often lacked community input and cohesion, leading to disjointed and ineffectively managed initiatives.
In testimony to these changes, a recent evaluation of ongoing projects under Sadiq-Yelwaa noted that over 30 new developmental projects have been initiated since he took office. These encompass various sectors, including healthcare, education, capacity building, skills acquisition empowerments and infrastructure, further underscoring a comprehensive strategy to alleviate poverty and improve living standards within affected communities.
Another pivotal area of improvement has been community engagement. Under Sadiq-Yelwaa’s leadership, there has been a concerted effort to involve local stakeholders in decision-making processes. This approach not only empowers the communities but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the developmental projects being implemented. Previously, many initiatives were dictated by external leaders, resulting in resistance or lack of participation by community members.
For instance, one of the significant achievements reported of Sadiq-Yelwaa’s tenure was regular stakeholder meetings, allowing community voices to influence project designs. This shift towards inclusivity represents a substantial step forward from the past, where community concerns were often overlooked in favour of top-down directives.
Sustainability has become a focal point of HYPADEC’s operations under Sadiq-Yelwaa. Recognising that hydroelectric projects significantly alter the environment and the livelihood of surrounding communities, the new leadership has integrated environmental considerations into the planning and execution phases of all projects.
One standout project is the reforestation programme initiated in several member states, aimed at restoring degraded areas that were adversely impacted by power generation activities. This is a clear contrast to past practices, where environmental degradation often went unaddressed while pursuing rapid development. Such initiatives not only address ecological concerns but also create job opportunities for local populations, thereby contributing to economic growth.
Despite these significant advancements under Alh. Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwaa, challenges persist. Financial constraints continue to plague HYPADEC, limiting the scope and scale of projects that can be undertaken. Additionally, some areas still experience resistance towards new initiatives, with a lingering mistrust of authorities stemming from previous leadership failures.
However, Sadiq-Yelwaa’s proactive approach to communication and transparency has already begun to mitigate such issues. By fostering an environment of trust and building strong relationships with community leaders, the foundation for overcoming these hurdles has been laid.
In comparing the HYPADEC of the past under previous leadership with the present commission under Alh. Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwaa, it is clear that significant strides have been made in policy implementation, community engagement, and sustainable development. The improved focus on local needs has revitalised the commission, bringing hope and tangible benefits to member state populations. As challenges remain, the trajectory under Sadiq-Yelwaa indicates the potential for ongoing improvements that will further enhance the lives of those impacted by hydroelectric power projects in Nigeria.
World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, an international organization that operates within the UN member nations with its scope of duty covering the entire 17 SDGs, has appointed Alh. Shuaibu Umar Faruk, as its Director, Zero Hunger Agency, to head its West Africa Region.
His appointment, which took effect on the 24th February 2025, is focused on strengthening the speedy implementation of the SDGs across the globe even as touching lives, Transforming Societies, Healing Souls, Uniting Nations and changing the world are the five core pillars of the organization
According to the letter of appointment, Alh. Umar Shuaibu Faruk is saddled with the responsibilities of superioring the initiation and execution of all projects that have to do with curbing or averting hunger in its totality across nations in West Africa. It was also further stated that he would ensure that he enhances strategic partnerships and collaborations across all stakeholders, including governments at all levels, CSOs, NGOs, UN agencies, other INGOs, and Captains of industries and companies through their corporate social responsibilities.
The letter also noted that an era marked by crucial global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, the role of the local and international leadership in sustainable development organizations has never been more critical. Alh. Shuaibu Umar, as Director, Zero Hunger Agency- West Africa, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization is tasked with embodying and promoting the values enshrined within the United Nations
He is not only expected to align African policy with the SDGs but inspire other regions to follow suit. His leadership is expected to impact both local communities and global efforts significantly.
One of his primary expectations, amongst many others, is to ensure that West Africa Regional policy aligns with the SDGs.
His presence at the regional forum provides an excellent opportunity to share West Africa progress and innovation, which could galvanize other regions to enhance their commitment to sustainable practice.
Umar is also expected to help enlist a broader range of stakeholders in SDGs, bridging gabs between developing regions and ensuring that all voices are heard.
Umar, reacting to his appointment on the 4th of March, 2025 at the organizational office in Abuja- Nigeria, assured that his leadership would focus on making West Africa a better and more inclusive society aligning with the WSDGs organization’s broader vision of sustainable impact through Hunger eradication.
In a renewed push to combat poverty and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, Danmadamin Yauri, has called for a holistic and collaborative approach to addressing the issue.
He emphasized that the government alone cannot eliminate poverty and urged strong partnerships between the Ministry and relevant stakeholders.
Dr. Sununu made this call while receiving a delegation from the Niger Delta Peoples Salvation Front (NDPSF) in his office in Abuja.
He revealed that the Ministry is working towards establishing a National Council on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, a strategic forum where stakeholders can engage in meaningful dialogue and chart a course for sustainable solutions.
Additionally, he announced plans for a National Humanitarian Response Plan to provide a structured framework for addressing humanitarian crises across the country.
Commending NDPSF’s founder, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, for supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in tackling youth restiveness in the Niger Delta, Dr. Sununu acknowledged the organization’s efforts in advocating for the region’s marginalized communities.
Speaking on behalf of the NDPSF, National Chairman Alabo Engr. Obomate Harry reiterated the group’s commitment to partnering with the Ministry in job creation, skill acquisition, and poverty alleviation initiatives.
He urged the Ministry to increase its presence in the Niger Delta through citizen engagement mechanisms and empowerment workshops, which would enhance the credibility and impact of government programs.
As a gesture of appreciation for his dedication to humanitarian efforts and national development, the delegation presented Dr. Sununu with a plaque, recognizing his contributions to improving lives across the country.
In a bold step toward revolutionizing Nigeria’s aviation sector, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Registrar of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, joined top industry leaders at a high-profile stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos. The event, convened by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, took place on February 28, 2025, at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja.
With the theme “Transforming the Aviation Industry Through Strategic Partnerships: Advancing Airport Concessions for Sustainable Development,” the gathering served as a critical platform for deliberations on policies and innovations essential for the sector’s growth. Discussions centered on fostering long-term sustainability, boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness, and leveraging strategic collaborations to enhance airport infrastructure.
Experts at the event highlighted the importance of continuous investment in aviation education, stating that training the next generation of industry professionals is key to achieving a globally competitive and resilient sector.
They stressed the need for efficient airport concession models that balance profitability with improved service delivery, ensuring a world-class travel experience for passengers while maintaining Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure at global standards.
…Bauchi Governor Applauds President Tinubu’s Commitment to Agriculture
Maryam Aminu
In a bold move to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the Federal Government has officially launched the Irrigate Nigeria Project, an initiative designed to enhance food production and increase farmers’ incomes.
The groundbreaking event took place over the weekend in Gamawa Local Government Area, Bauchi State, marking the beginning of a nationwide rollout.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), in partnership with the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF) and private sector stakeholders, is spearheading this initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the project is set to empower farmers with sustainable irrigation systems, enabling year-round farming and reducing reliance on seasonal rainfall. This approach will lead to higher crop yields, lower food prices, and improved economic conditions for farmers.
“This initiative rests on four pillars for sustainability: the deployment of centralized NASENI irrigation systems, provision of enhanced seeds and fertilizers, a specialized commercial model to ensure long-term viability, and a repayment system where farmers contribute portions of their harvests to a strategic food reserve,” Halilu explained.
The pilot phase, launched on a 10-hectare farmland in Gamawa, showcases a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach. Farmers will receive irrigation equipment, technical support, and improved farm inputs while contributing to a national food reserve aimed at stabilizing commodity prices and promoting exports.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, in his remarks, hailed President Tinubu’s vision, stating that the initiative aligns with Bauchi’s strategy to expand irrigation farming and reduce dependence on rain-fed agriculture.
“This is not just about farming; it is about food security, economic empowerment, and national stability. The Irrigate Nigeria Project is a model for agricultural excellence, capable of transforming Nigeria’s agricultural value chain by introducing advanced technologies, boosting production, and ensuring inclusive economic benefits,” Governor Mohammed said.
Dr. Mohammed Dahiru, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), emphasized that the PPP framework ensures long-term sustainability, unlike previous government-funded agricultural programs that struggled to yield lasting impact.
“No private sector investor commits funds without ensuring success. Unlike past initiatives that relied solely on government or donor funding, the Irrigate Nigeria Project is structured for sustainability through private sector involvement,” Dahiru noted.
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping governance, UNESCO has taken a bold step to equip civil servants with essential digital skills.
Last week, a comprehensive capacity-building program on Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Privacy, Open Data, and Digital Governance was held to bridge the digital divide and strengthen public sector efficiency.
The week-long training, facilitated by Gabriel Akinremi and Dr. Raymond Onuoha, provided an interactive learning experience for government officials. Through case studies, hands-on exercises, and expert-led discussions, participants explored key aspects of digital transformation.
Speaking on the importance of cybersecurity, Gabriel Akinremi emphasized the need for civil servants to adopt best practices in risk management to safeguard government data from cyber threats.
He highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in public service delivery, noting that AI-driven innovations could enhance efficiency and decision-making in government operations.
He also stressed the significance of data privacy, explaining that compliance with regulations was crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring responsible data handling within government institutions.
The training saw the participation of Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, alongside directors and middle managers from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
Their engagement underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a digitally competent and security-conscious public sector.
At the conclusion of the program, Akinremi reflected on the key lessons gained, stating that participants now had a deeper understanding of how to protect sensitive government data from cyber threats.
He expressed confidence that the training had equipped civil servants with practical knowledge on leveraging artificial intelligence to improve public service delivery.
He also reiterated that upholding data privacy was essential in maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.
The program ended on a high note, with participants receiving certificates of participation as a testament to their commitment to digital transformation.
Akinremi further explained that this initiative aligns with UNESCO’s broader goal of helping government officials implement strategic digital transformation plans.
He pointed out that the training was structured around UNESCO’s AI and Digital Transformation Competency Framework for Civil Servants, ensuring that participants gained relevant and practical knowledge.
He emphasized the importance of understanding policy and regulatory aspects of digital governance, as well as adopting innovation management strategies to create citizen-centric public services. Ethical AI deployment, he added, was another critical area of focus, as governments must balance technological advancements with responsible and fair implementation. He also introduced participants to design-thinking approaches, encouraging them to apply strategic action planning in their digital governance efforts.
Africa Security Investigation News 