USPF Hands Over Emerging Technology Centre to Ogun State Institute of Technology

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to bridge the digital divide and promote technological advancement in Nigeria, the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), an initiative of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has handed over a state-of-the-art Emerging Technology Centre (ETC) to the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, Ogun State.

The ETC, located on OGITECH’s campus, is designed to enhance students’ learning experiences while serving as a hub for digital innovation, research, and development. It aligns with the government’s vision of expanding ICT access to underserved communities, ultimately driving economic growth across the country.

A significant highlight of the commissioning ceremony, held on Thursday, was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure the effective utilization and sustainability of the project.

Equipped with 100 desktop computers, emerging technology applications, high-speed bandwidth, and connectivity tools, the Centre provides students and faculty members with access to cutting-edge resources, fostering skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and other emerging fields.

Speaking at the handover event, USPF Secretary Yomi Arowosafe described the ETC as more than just infrastructure but a commitment to Nigeria’s technological future. He emphasized that under the leadership of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, the USPF remains dedicated to expanding ICT access nationwide.

“With a student population of 9,300, OGITECH is one of Nigeria’s leading technology institutions, and we are proud to partner with them. This Centre will provide opportunities for students to develop crucial digital skills while supporting faculty members in integrating technology into their teaching and research,” Arowosafe stated.

He also highlighted the ETC’s role in driving entrepreneurship, noting that it would serve as a platform for start-ups and small businesses to incubate and grow.

In his remarks, OGITECH’s Rector, Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, expressed gratitude to the NCC and USPF for selecting the institution for the project.

He assured that the facility would be put to optimal use, benefiting not only the school but also the wider community.

The MoU, Arowosafe explained, is part of USPF’s sustainability strategy, ensuring that beneficiary institutions take ownership of such projects and maintain them for long-term impact.

The USPF was established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to drive universal access to ICT services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, ensuring greater social equity and digital inclusion across the country.

NiMet DG Champions Transformational Leadership at African Leadership Awards

Maryam Aminu

Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact. For Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the true mark of leadership lies in setting a positive, lasting climate within a team.

Speaking at the African Leadership Persons of the Year 2025 event in Casablanca, Morocco, on Friday, March 21, 2025, Anosike underscored the power of influence, collaboration, and vision in shaping the future.

Anosike emphasized that true leadership is about inspiring collaboration, fostering resilience, and creating a lasting impact.

He highlighted the role of leaders in shaping organizational culture, stressing that great leadership is not just about authority but about setting the tone for success.

“While the weather may change tomorrow, the climate is experienced every day. Great leaders lead by doing!” he declared.

Nimet DG, who is among the recipients of the prestigious African Leadership Persons of the Year 2025 awards, expressed gratitude for the recognition.

He attributed his success to the unwavering support of Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the dedicated team at NiMet.

He also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of driving transformative change at the agency, which has been delivering meteorological services for over 130 years since its establishment in 1887 in Akassa, present-day Bayelsa State.

Anosike highlighted NiMet’s pivotal role in supporting climate-smart agriculture, providing farmers with early warnings and climate intelligence to enhance productivity and food security.

“Climate change is a threat multiplier, exacerbating socio-economic vulnerabilities, especially for disadvantaged communities with limited access to resources or inadequate infrastructure. Extreme weather events further deepen these disparities,” he warned.

He outlined the agency’s commitment to multi-hazard monitoring, disaster risk management, and climate risk intelligence, all of which are critical for mitigation and adaptation strategies in Nigeria and beyond.

“By leveraging our network of weather stations across Nigeria and strengthening stakeholder collaboration, we deliver impact-based forecasts and early warnings to enhance safety, resilience, and food security,” he added.

NiMet is also collaborating with funding partners and the private sector to bridge government funding gaps in meteorological interventions. The agency is upgrading its weather observation networks to bolster early warning systems and enhance community preparedness for climate-related disasters.

Reinforcing the essence of teamwork and stakeholder engagement, Anosike stressed that leadership is not a solo endeavor but a shared responsibility.

“Leadership is not an individual property but an emergent property of the system,” he concluded.

As part of his recognition, Professor Anosike will receive the African Public Sector Leadership Impact Award at a grand ceremony scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025.

Youth Ministry Partners with Flutterwave to Boost Empowerment, Mentorship

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to advance youth empowerment in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Flutterwave, a leading financial technology company. The partnership aims to enhance mentorship, digital skills training, and access to start-up funding for young Nigerians.

The MoU signing ceremony, presided over by the Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, was attended by key government officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya. The initiative will introduce strategic programs to equip youth with essential skills and financial support, reinforcing the government’s commitment to job creation and economic development.

A key highlight of the collaboration is Flutterwave’s role in streamlining stipend disbursements for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, ensuring a faster and more efficient payment system. This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s eight priority pillars, which focus on economic growth, innovation, and youth empowerment.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Legal Services at the Ministry, Mr. Ernest Ezebilo, emphasized the partnership’s significance in providing young Nigerians with the tools to succeed in an increasingly digital economy.

Flutterwave’s Co-founder and CEO, Olugbenga Agboola, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to leveraging technology for sustainable youth empowerment.

He noted that the partnership would create a robust support system for young entrepreneurs and job seekers.

Minister Olawande commended Flutterwave’s role in youth-focused initiatives, describing the collaboration as a critical step toward realizing President Tinubu’s vision for economic transformation.

He highlighted the involvement of key agencies under the Ministry, including the NYSC and the Citizenship & Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), in executing these programs.

“This partnership contributes directly to the President’s eight priority pillars by:

Expanding access to training, mentorship, and funding for young entrepreneurs,

Supporting youth-led businesses to foster innovation and industrialization,

Strengthening technical and leadership training programs,

Enhancing access to capital for start-ups,

Leveraging digital innovation to create sustainable employment opportunities,

Promoting civic engagement through NYSC and CLTC initiatives, and

Demonstrating the impact of public-private sector collaboration in national development,” Olawande stated.

The Honourable Minister expressed confidence that this partnership would significantly enhance the Ministry’s mission to empower Nigerian youth, positioning them as key drivers of the nation’s economic growth.

Defence Minister Matawalle Calls for Law and Order in Osun State Amid Rising Tensions

Emmanuel Daudu

Amid growing unrest in Osun State, the Federal Government has issued a strong call for peace and stability.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed deep concern over the recent disturbances in local government councils, urging security agencies to take decisive action in maintaining law and order.

Matawalle emphasized that the judiciary’s recent ruling on the matter reflects its independence and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law nationwide.

He condemned the violence that led to the loss of lives, stressing that such incidents must not be allowed to continue.

“As Minister of State for Defence, my duty includes the protection of lives and property. This administration remains dedicated to ensuring that democratic principles are upheld at all levels of governance,” Matawalle stated.

The minister urged all political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations to respect the rule of law and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve disputes. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in fostering a stable and secure environment essential for the development of Osun State.

He also called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the federal government is committed to their safety and has elevated security measures to prevent further violence.

Matawalle reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to protect democratic rights, ensuring that peace, justice, and the rule of law prevail. He reiterated that the government will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and harmony across the country.

Security Operatives Storm Lagos State House of Assembly, Raising Concerns Over Democratic Integrity

Maryam Aminu

CLEEN Foundation has condemned the recent invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police, describing it as a direct attack on democratic principles and institutional independence.

According to reports, security personnel stormed the legislative complex in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025, sealing off the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House. Armed operatives were also stationed around the Assembly premises, raising concerns about undue interference in the state’s legislative affairs.

The incident comes amid ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, a development that has intensified political tensions in the state.

CLEEN Foundation warns that the forceful occupation of the Assembly premises sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the rule of law, separation of powers, and the independence of democratic institutions.

CLEEN Foundation has urged security agencies to maintain professionalism and avoid being used as political tools to undermine democracy. The organization is demanding the following immediate actions:

Transparency and Accountability: Security agencies must provide a clear legal basis for their actions and ensure that their operations do not obstruct democratic processes.

Respect for the Rule of Law: All parties must allow due legal procedures to take their course without intimidation or coercion.

Legislative Independence: The Lagos State House of Assembly must be allowed to function without interference from security agencies or external political influences.

CLEEN Foundation calls on the Federal Government, the Lagos State Government, and the Judiciary to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent the abuse of security forces for political gain. The organization emphasizes that democracy thrives when institutions operate freely, without intimidation or coercion.

NiMet Partners with CARE Nigeria to Improve Climate Information Access

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has announced a strategic partnership with CARE Nigeria, a branch of CARE USA, aimed at expanding the reach of critical weather and climate data to end users, particularly farmers and vulnerable communities.

Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with CARE Nigeria’s Country Director, Dr. Hussaini Abdu, the Director General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, emphasized the importance of timely weather information in disaster preparedness. He noted that partnerships with state governments and humanitarian organizations like CARE Nigeria are essential in ensuring that climate data reaches those who need it most.

“As climate change continues to drive humanitarian crises and displace communities, integrating weather information into development strategies is crucial,” Prof. Anosike stated.

He stressed that climate-informed decision-making is vital in addressing poverty, forced displacement, and human trafficking, which are often exacerbated by extreme weather events.

In response, Dr. Abdu highlighted CARE Nigeria’s commitment to crisis response and development programs, particularly in the Northeast, where climate change has intensified humanitarian challenges. “NiMet plays a critical role in supporting smallholder farmers and promoting climate-smart agriculture. This partnership will help elevate climate-related discussions and advocate for more sustainable public policies,” he said.

Both organizations have agreed to formalize their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marking a significant step toward strengthening climate resilience in Nigeria.

Gen Musa vindicated, foreign forces behind Boko Haram exposed, What’s Next

By Victor Akaa.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has had his claims confirmed that Boko Haram extremists are being sponsored by foreign countries.

In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, General Musa expressed concerns about the persistence of Boko Haram’s activities over the past 16 years, despite Nigerian military efforts to defeat them. He cited evidence that many captured Boko Haram terrorists were found with funds linked to powerful foreign nations, suggesting international complicity in supporting the group.
During the interview, General Musa put forward a challenging question, saying “how have they (terrorists) been able to sustain themselves for 15 years?

General Musa’s assertion was recently corroborated by a US congressman, Scott Perry who dropped a bombshell, alleging that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funneling a staggering $697 million annually to terrorists organisations including the notorious Boko Haram. This shocking revelation was made during a hearing on government efficiency, where Perry questioned the misuse of taxpayer funds to support terrorist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaida. He also claimed that USAID’s funding of programmes in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan has been ineffective, with millions of dollars unaccounted for, and instead, being used to fund terrorism. He affirmed that, over $136 million was allocated to USAID to build 120 schools in Pakistan, yet there’s zero evidence that these schools exist.

This vindicates General Musa’s earlier statement and raises questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. The recent surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members, many of whom were found with money from powerful foreign countries, has sparked a heated debate about the conflict. As General Musa aptly put it, “Where are they getting this money? Who is training them? Who is supplying them with weapons?” These questions seem to be rhetorical but are needed to be answered. The discovery of foreign money among surrendered Boko Haram members is a disturbing indication of the level of external support the group has received.

It is clear that Boko Haram’s ability to wage war against the Nigerian state has been facilitated by foreign powers. The question of who is training and supplying Boko Haram with weapons is critical, and it is likely that the group has received support from foreign military personnel. Skelly Moss from James Madison University notes that the international community’s role in perpetuating the conflict cannot be overstated, and it’s crucial to examine the complex web of interests and alliances that have contributed to Boko Haram’s rise. The implications of foreign involvement in Boko Haram’s activities are far-reaching, suggesting that the conflict is not just a local insurgency, but a complex web of international intrigue and geopolitics.

The Nigerian government and military must now confront the reality that they are facing a domestic enemy backed by powerful foreign forces. Under General Musa’s leadership, the Nigerian military has made significant gains against Boko Haram, recapturing territories and neutralizing insurgents. As General Musa continues to lead the charge against extremism, it is clear that he has earned the respect of many. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian military’s response to the conflict, and his commitment to defeating the extremists is unwavering.

The surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members and the discovery of foreign money among them is a significant development, raising important questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. As General Musa said, “We need to get to the bottom of it,” and it is essential that the Nigerian Government and the International community work together to uncover the web of deceit behind Boko Haram’s activities.

Victor Akaa writes from Abuja.

NiMet Partners with Gates Foundation to Boost Climate Resilience Through Specialized Training

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to strengthen climate resilience and enhance weather forecasting capabilities, selected staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) will undergo specialized training sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The training is part of the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project (2024-2026), implemented by Sahel Consulting, and aims to equip NiMet personnel with advanced skills in climate data analysis and application.

A statement from NiMet’s media office highlighted that staff members have previously benefited from similar training under the ongoing partnership.

The upcoming training will be conducted by the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), a key technical partner in the project and a part of the Columbia Climate School at Columbia University.

The program is structured into two phases:
Training of Trainers (ToT) session – February 18 to 21 and Expanded training session – February 24 to 28, where NiMet staff will train participants from various ministries and agencies under the guidance of an IRI expert.

Receiving Dr. Tufa Dinku, a Research Scientist from IRI, who visited to brief him on the training, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed appreciation to the Gates Foundation and its partners for their support.

“Access to high-quality climate data is essential for developing effective, decision-relevant, and sustainable climate services. This training will enhance our capacity and empower beneficiaries to leverage climate information for improved decision-making,” Prof. Anosike stated.

The initiative is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s agricultural resilience, improve climate adaptation strategies, and enhance the country’s meteorological services.

FG Unveils Four-Year Roadmap for Open Government Partnership to Boost Socio-Economic Growth

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive four-year roadmap for the Open Government Partnership (OGP), aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement to drive socio-economic development in Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced the initiative during the valedictory session of the National Action Plan III (NAP III) and the inauguration of the committee tasked with developing the fourth National Action Plan (NAP IV) in Abuja.

According to the Minister, the new roadmap will build on the successes of NAP III while addressing past challenges. He urged the steering committee members to review the roadmap critically and provide constructive feedback to ensure an improved framework for NAP IV.

“Please draw extensively from your experience with NAP III as you contribute to the draft. Our goal is to create a new action plan that avoids previous challenges,” Olawande stated.

He emphasized the importance of nationwide adoption of OGP principles, noting that 26 out of Nigeria’s 37 states, along with three local councils, have already embraced the initiative.

He also highlighted progress in beneficial ownership reforms and commended the President for promoting transparency in governance, citing the removal of the corruption-ridden petrol subsidy as a key achievement.

Dr. Gloria Ahmed, National Coordinator of the OGP and Director of Special Duties at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, explained that the National Steering Committee (NSC) has transitioned from a two-year to a four-year action plan cycle. This shift, she noted, allows for a mid-term review to reassess priorities in response to government policy changes or emerging challenges.

“The roadmap will officially commence in March with a stakeholder retreat, where participants will assess past performance and review the previous National Action Plan,” Dr. Ahmed stated.

The unveiling of the four-year roadmap marks a significant step toward strengthening governance and fostering inclusive development in Nigeria.

Cross section of the meeting.

BBA Traders Alert Governor Sanwo-Olu on Impostors Parading as Leaders

Maryam Aminu

Leaders of the Balogun Business Association (BBA) have raised concerns over individuals they describe as impostors falsely representing themselves as executives of the association.

In a petition addressed to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the traders warned that these individuals recently paid a courtesy visit to the governor despite having no legitimate claim to leadership.

The petition, signed by Chief Anthony Obih (Chairman, Board of Trustees), Chief Jones Okpala (Secretary, Board of Trustees), Hon. Anselm Dunu (Chairman, Caretaker Committee), and Chief Leonard Ogbonnia (Secretary, Caretaker Committee), was also copied to the Attorney General of Lagos State.

The traders accused Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his group of acting in “brazen and egregious defiance” of ongoing judicial proceedings. They cited multiple court cases, including Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/451/2021 and Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2665/2023, which they claim validate the authority of the Caretaker Committee led by Hon. Anselm Dunu as the lawful management body of the association.

According to the petitioners, the Federal High Court had issued orders preventing government interference in the association’s affairs, particularly regarding its management and administration. Despite this, they allege that Chief Odogwu misrepresented himself to gain access to Governor Sanwo-Olu under false pretenses.

The Balogun Business Association, established in 1992 and operating under a lease from the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, is a major commercial hub for traders across Nigeria and West Africa.

The traders urged the Lagos State Government to disregard Odogwu and his group, stating:
“We respectfully urge Your Excellency to treat Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his associates as deceivers, tricksters, and impostors.

They should not be granted any recognition as representatives of the Balogun Business Association nor be given any further audience.”

The crisis at BBA has been ongoing, with tensions escalating over allegations that certain individuals are unlawfully extorting traders under the guise of utility bill payments, despite the issue being subject to court proceedings.

The petitioners emphasized that legal resolution is the only path forward, warning against intimidation and harassment of traders.

The Lagos State Government is yet to respond to the petition.