WEP Launches Farm Beta Radio Programme to Revolutionize Farming with Climate Insights

Maryam Aminu

The Women Environmental Programme (WEP) has unveiled the Farm Beta Radio Programme, an innovative platform designed to empower farmers with early warning climate information and sustainable agriculture techniques.

The programme was officially launched on November 21, 2024, during a virtual event attended by key stakeholders from government, civil society, farming communities, and the media.

In his address, the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change in Benue State, Honourable Odoh Ugwu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Akaa Nyam Thomas, commended WEP’s commitment to addressing climate risks in agriculture.

He emphasized the programme’s potential to enhance productivity and resilience among rural and women farmers.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Priscilla Achakpa, Founder and Global President of WEP, highlighted that the Farm Beta Radio aligns with the goals of the WomenPower2030 Project an EU-funded initiative aimed at strengthening feminist civil society networks to achieve gender-equal sustainable development.

Co-implementing partner Auvi Priodarsine of Women Engage for a Common Future (WECF) described the radio programme as “a lifeline for farmers facing the dual challenges of climate change and agricultural vulnerability.”

Innovative Outreach for Farmers
Radio, a trusted medium for rural communities, was praised as an effective tool for disseminating climate information.

Mrs. Glory Onyegbule, Director of Applied Meteorological Services at the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), noted that “83.4% of Nigerian households own a working radio, and over half of rural farmers access radio daily,” making it the ideal channel for climate education.

She reaffirmed NiMet’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to deliver actionable agrometeorological information to farmers.

The Director of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Iniobong Abiola Awe, hailed Farm Beta Radio as “a transformative initiative for sustainable agriculture.” Similarly, Professor Chinwe Obuaku, Consultant to the Osun State Government on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, emphasized that it represents “a critical step forward in addressing the intersection of agriculture and climate change.”
Farm Beta Radio broadcasts weekly on stations across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring access to critical climate updates and sustainable farming techniques:

Farm Beta Radio broadcasts weekly on stations across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring access to critical climate updates and sustainable farming techniques:

North-East: Albarka Radio 97.5 FM, Bauchi – Fridays, 10:00 am

North-West: Salama Radio 98.1 FM, Kafanchan – Tuesdays, 9:30 am

North-Central: Agate Radio 95.5 Star FM, Makurdi – Thursdays, 5:30 pm

South-South: Super FM 88.1, Benin – Thursdays, 6:30 pm

South-West: Women Radio 91.7 FM, Ogun State – Mondays, 5:00 pm

South-East: Ebonyi Broadcasting Corporation 98.1 FM, Abakaliki – Sundays, 7:30 pm
The Farm Beta Radio Programme aims to bridge the gap between climate science and agricultural practices, equipping farmers with tools to mitigate climate risks while boosting productivity.

The Farm Beta Radio Programme aims to bridge the gap between climate science and agricultural practices, equipping farmers with tools to mitigate climate risks while boosting productivity.

It underscores WEP’s dedication to inclusive solutions that empower rural communities, particularly women farmers, to thrive in the face of climate challenges.

By providing accessible and practical information, WEP is not only fostering resilience but also paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural sector in Nigeria. The Farm Beta Radio initiative sets a new benchmark for integrating technology, education, and climate action in agriculture.

RMAFC Chairman Urges Domestic Revenue Mobilization for National Growth

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Muhammad Bello Shehu, has emphasized the importance of strengthening domestic revenue mobilization to drive Nigeria’s economic growth and reduce dependence on external borrowing.

Speaking at the 2024 National Council on Finance and Economic Development (NACOFED) conference, themed “Fostering Economic Growth in Challenging Times: Strategies for Policies and Partnership for Fiscal Sustainability and National Development,” Dr. Shehu highlighted the urgency of diversifying the nation’s revenue base to achieve fiscal sustainability.

“Boosting domestic revenue provides a predictable foundation for national planning and reduces reliance on external borrowing,” Dr. Shehu stated.

He underscored the risks of Nigeria’s heavy reliance on oil revenue, citing global price volatility and rising debt burdens as key challenges.

To address these issues, the RMAFC Chairman proposed actionable strategies, including optimizing tax administration, broadening the tax base by incorporating the informal sector, and leveraging non-oil sectors such as solid minerals, agriculture, technology, and tourism.

These sectors, he noted, hold immense potential for creating jobs, attracting foreign investments, and contributing significantly to national revenue.

Dr. Shehu also stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and strategic investments in renewable energy, education, and infrastructure. “Domestic revenue mobilization is not just a financial necessity but a pathway to Nigeria’s economic self-reliance. By prioritizing inclusive growth and strategic investments, Nigeria can build a sustainable and resilient economy capable of meeting the aspirations of its people,” he added.

The conference, held in Bauchi, brought together key stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun; Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Lydia Jafiya; Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Shakirat Madein; Commissioners of Finance; and Accountants General from the 36 states and the FCT.

NACOFED, a platform overseen by the Federal Ministry of Finance, facilitates collaboration among federal, state, and local governments to address pressing financial and economic issues and drive national development.

This year’s conference emphasized partnerships and innovative fiscal policies as crucial tools for navigating Nigeria’s economic challenges.

Federal Ministry of Youth Development Strengthens Collaboration with World Bank to Empower Nigerian Youth

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has reiterated its commitment to empowering Nigerian youth by fostering collaboration with stakeholders to create sustainable opportunities.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, made this assertion during a meeting with a World Bank delegation led by Mr. Maheshwor Shrestha, a World Bank economist, at his office in Abuja.

Comrade Olawande stressed the need for collective efforts to provide an enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive.

“Positive engagement creates a sense of belonging and trust in governance. By working together, we can build a meaningful environment where our youth can realize their full potential,” he stated.

The Minister outlined the challenges facing Nigerian youth, including a labor market absorbing 60 million youths, with an additional 5.5 million entering annually.

He highlighted the alarming statistics that show 58% of the informal workforce is comprised of youth, many of whom lack access to skills training, funding, and adequate infrastructure.

To tackle these issues, the Minister unveiled the Ministry’s ambitious plans, including Creating direct and indirect employment opportunities for 10 million youth in five years,Ensuring proficiency in at least two income-generating skills for every young Nigerian.

Others include: Expanding youth credit support funds by $50 million to promote entrepreneurship.

Developing youth-focused infrastructure to facilitate economic inclusion.

“Our focus is to develop a coordinated mechanism for youth interventions, ensuring that Nigerian youth have the tools to thrive in today’s economy,” he added.

World Bank’s Strategic Pillars for Nigerian Youth

Speaking on behalf of the World Bank, Mr. Maheshwor Shrestha unveiled the institution’s three strategic pathways for youth empowerment.

Reeling the strategic pathways he said Skills Development and Job Matching will Provide relevant skills and connect youth to suitable job opportunities.

Shrestha added that World Bank will Facilitate Migration Opportunities to relieve domestic job market pressures.

He noted that part of the strategic pathways is Fallback Employment and Safety Nets: Offering public works programs that provide income while linking participants to further skill-building and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Mr. Shrestha lauded the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as an unparalleled platform for youth engagement, describing it as a cornerstone for transformative youth programs.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to building on its existing collaboration with the World Bank.

“We are committed to creating robust opportunities for our youth, ensuring that they not only survive but thrive,” she said.

Both parties expressed optimism about the potential of their partnership to transform the lives of millions of Nigerian youth.

North Central Integrity Forum Denounces Allegations Against SGF Akume by North Central APC Forum

Maryam Aminu

The North Central Integrity Forum (NCIF) has strongly criticized the North Central APC Forum for its recent accusations against the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

In a press briefing on Thursday, November 21, 2024, in Lafia, the NCIF President, Joseph Maiwada, labeled the allegations of lopsided appointments as baseless and politically motivated, warning that such divisive claims threaten both national unity and regional progress.

Describing the accusations as an “orchestrated attack,” Maiwada highlighted Senator Akume’s longstanding contributions to the development of the North-Central geopolitical zone and Nigeria at large.

“The recent outburst by the North Central APC Forum is a regrettable attempt to misrepresent facts and tarnish the reputation of a statesman who has devoted his life to fostering national unity and inclusivity,” Maiwada stated.

He emphasized that appointments under Senator Akume’s leadership are based on competence and merit, aligning with the principles of fairness and nation-building. He dismissed the Forum’s allegations as an unwarranted effort to create unnecessary tension within the region.

Maiwada also condemned the Forum’s threats to organize protests against the SGF, describing such actions as counterproductive and detrimental to the collective interests of the North-Central region.

“Rather than engaging in baseless accusations, the North Central APC Forum should channel its energy into fostering collaboration and unity, which are critical for the region’s development,” he said.

The North Central Integrity Forum commended Senator Akume for his commitment to equity and fairness, urging stakeholders to reject any attempts to sow discord. Maiwada called on political actors in the region to embrace dialogue and constructive engagement, cautioning against inflammatory rhetoric that could polarize the zone.

“The North Central Integrity Forum stands firmly behind Senator Akume, confident in his leadership and his efforts to advance the interests of the North-Central zone and Nigeria as a whole,” he concluded.

The North Central Integrity Forum reiterated its commitment to unity and called on all stakeholders to prioritize the region’s development over personal or political interests.

World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria partners Ogun State House of Assembly, set for training and outreaches

By Maryam Aminu

An international Non-Governmental organization which operates across the UN member nations with the scope of duty capturing all the 17 SDGs, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has partnered with Ogun State House of Assembly to train the Ogun State legislatures on SDGs, their importance, benefits, and enlighten them on the role of the entire 17 SDGs as it has to do with humanity, policy-making as well as operating the Assembly in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals standard which in turn will benefit the ordinary citizens in the state.

The exclusive meeting between the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization’s powerful delegation led by the Nigeria Country Representative, H.E., Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan and the Ogun State House of Assembly members headed by the speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide had in attendance all the Ogun State House of Assembly members.

The meeting, which was held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Tuesday, the 19th of Nov., 2024, at the Speaker’s office, was result-oriented as both parties clearly defined what they needed and how to go about it.

While speaking, the Nigeria Country Representative, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, His Excellency Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan lauded the Honourable speaker for his proactiveness in his legislative leadership to have achieved 7 bills and 24 motions in less than a year and up-to-date oversight functions.
“We are in Ogun State today to see how we can contribute our quarter to the benefit of the citizens of Ogun State through the instrumentality of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization.

“We are here to seek your fellowship in partnership to conduct free training for Ogun State House of Assembly members on Sustainable Development Goals and also carry out Free medical outreach projects in 2025 for the Ogun citizens”, Kolawole added.

According to the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, RT. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide
while reacting to H.E. Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan thanked the organization for finding Ogun State worthy of being incorporated as a beneficiary of the organizational 2025 project, stating that the state’s Assembly is ready for any positive project that would benefit the state, its citizens and the state Assembly.

Nigerian Armed Forces Record Major Gains in Nationwide Military Operations

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have achieved remarkable successes in their ongoing nationwide operations targeting terrorist factions, violent extremists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. These efforts highlight the military’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and stability across the country.

Addressing the press during the weekly operational briefing in Abuja on November 21, 2024, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, provided a detailed report of the military’s progress.

He disclosed that the Troops Neutralized 61 Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including high-ranking commanders.

“34 suspects detained, 32 hostages rescued, and 22 terrorists (including families) surrendered.”

Major General Edward Buba addressing the Press

Major General Buba revealed that in Borno State, offensive strikes in Kaga, Bama, Jere, and Konduga LGAs resulted in 21 terrorist fatalities, with significant arms and ammunition recovered. Notably, troops repelled an ambush in Gujba LGA, Yobe State, killing 21 ISWAP fighters, including a notorious commander, Munzur “CO” Ya Audu.

Reeling the operations in North Central (Operation Safe Haven), he stated that 40 kidnapped victims were freed in Sanga and Mangu LGAs, Plateau and Kaduna States. 27 suspects, including a gunrunner were arrested and AK-47 rifles, fabricated weapons, motorcycles, and ammunition were recovered

He noted that North West (Operation Hadarin Daji) Troops eliminated 28 terrorists, 77 suspects arrested, and 57 hostages rescued.

The Director Defence Media Operations revealed that Lawali Sani, alias Dantsoho, a terrorist kingpin, was apprehended in Isa LGA, Sokoto State.

He noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria destroyed terrorist hideouts in Katsina and Zamfara States, eliminating scores of fighters and disrupting logistics hubs.

Speaking further,he stated that Operation Whirl Stroke: Neutralized 11 insurgents and arrested 21 others in Taraba and Benue States, including a member of the Cameroonian Ambazonia Freedom Fighters. Eight hostages were freed.

Troops recovered crude oil worth over ₦921 million and dismantled 56 illegal refining sites, recovering over 872,000 liters of stolen crude oil”

During the week under review, the Armed Forces neutralized 115 criminals, arrested 238 individuals, and rescued 138 kidnapped victims. In total, 145 assorted weapons and 3,825 rounds of ammunition were recovered, alongside vehicles, motorcycles, and other logistics used by criminals.

Major General Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and their operational capabilities.

Precision airstrikes and intelligence-led operations remain central to degrading the infrastructure and logistics of terrorist groups.

“Our troops are focused, mission-ready, and motivated to win the war against terrorism. This is a challenging task, but we are committed to minimizing casualties while protecting our citizens and safeguarding our nation,” Major General Buba emphasized.

The military’s achievements underscore its dedication to ensuring a safer and more secure Nigeria, despite the sacrifices involved. The operations serve as a testament to the Armed Forces’ relentless efforts to protect lives and restore normalcy across affected regions.

Defence Minister Badaru Embarks on Strategic Tour of Military Installations in Enugu and Imo

Emmanuel Daudu

In a move aimed at reinforcing national security and operational efficiency, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commenced a high-level operational tour of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army and other strategic military installations in Enugu and Imo States.

Upon his arrival in Enugu on Thursday, November 21, 2024, the Minister was received with full military honors by Major-General H.T. Dada, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division and Commander of the Joint Task Force South East, Operation Udoka.

The reception also included senior military officers and other key personnel, underscoring the significance of the visit.

The tour is expected to provide Badaru with firsthand insights into the operational capabilities, challenges, and needs of the Nigerian Army in the South-East, a region grappling with unique security concerns.

As part of the visit, the Minister will hold a strategic meeting with South-East stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable solutions for enhancing peace, stability, and cooperation across the region.

This visit reflects the Defence Ministry’s dedication to maintaining operational excellence within the Armed Forces while fostering collaboration with regional leaders to address pressing security issues.

Further updates on the outcomes of these engagements will be provided as they unfold.

FG Affirms Commitment to Inclusivity in Youth Development Programs

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is steadfast in its commitment to promoting inclusivity and addressing marginalization in youth-focused initiatives.

This was reaffirmed by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, during a courtesy visit by the National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (NATOMORAS) to his office in Abuja.

Comrade Olawande highlighted the administration’s drive to ensure that the voices and aspirations of all Nigerian youth, including those in both formal and informal sectors, are prioritized in government policies and programs.

“In the past, informal youth were often sidelined in national development policies. This administration has redefined its approach to youth engagement, ensuring inclusivity and bridging gaps between the government and the people. We are fostering a culture where diversity is seen as strength and where opportunities are accessible to all,” the Minister said.

The Minister also acknowledged NATOMORAS’ vital role as a platform representing millions of young Nigerians, emphasizing the need for continuous collaboration to deepen the impact of government policies on youth development.

In recognition of his dedication and contributions to youth empowerment, NATOMORAS conferred on Comrade Olawande the prestigious title of sole patron of the association, presenting him with a certificate of honor.

The National President of NATOMORAS, Alhaji Usman Buba Gwoza, commended the Federal Government for its recent launch of 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles, describing the initiative as a transformative step toward sustainable transportation and economic empowerment.

“This program is a testament to visionary leadership, addressing environmental concerns while creating livelihood opportunities for millions of Nigerians. It’s a bold step towards a cleaner, more efficient transportation system,” Gwoza remarked.

He further appealed for stronger collaboration with the Ministry to ensure the effective implementation of policies, highlighting the transformative potential of such partnerships for Nigeria’s economic and social landscape.

FG Lifts NYSC Posting Restrictions, Paves Way for Specialized Career Development

By Maryam Aminu

As the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course kicks off, the Federal Government has unveiled a transformative vision for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), one that emphasizes professional development for corps members while addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.

In a landmark decision to empower Nigerian youth and tackle rising unemployment, the Federal Government has scrapped restrictive posting policies for the NYSC.

This groundbreaking directive, communicated via a memo dated November 18, 2024, by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, will take effect with the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course.

The move represents a significant policy shift, enabling corps members to gain practical experience in sectors aligned with their academic training.

The Minister noted that previously, postings were confined to four key sectors Education, Agriculture, Health, and Infrastructure under a policy introduced during the tenure of former Minister Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi. While this policy sought to prevent exploitation of corps members in private organizations, it inadvertently hindered their career progression by limiting opportunities for specialized training.

Comrade Olawande highlighted that the new directive aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment and fostering economic growth.

“The President is deeply concerned about the challenges facing our youth and has directed all government agencies to take proactive steps in tackling unemployment,” the Minister stated.

He added that under the new framework, corps members will be posted to organizations relevant to their academic qualifications, including private-sector leaders in industries such as banking and oil and gas. The pilot phase will commence in Lagos and Abuja.

Describing the policy shift as a vital step towards bridging the gap between education and the job market, the Minister said, “As we battle the unemployment crisis, expanding access for corps members to serve in areas aligned with their training is critical. This initiative will provide invaluable hands-on experience, preparing them for successful careers.”

The directive repeals all previous policies limiting NYSC postings and mandates that Places of Primary Assignment (PPA) be determined based on corps members’ fields of study.

This approach is expected to foster stronger partnerships between the NYSC and private-sector organizations, creating mutually beneficial opportunities for employers and corps members alike.

The implementation of this policy is poised to revolutionize the NYSC experience, transforming it from a mandatory service program into a platform for career advancement.

By aligning postings with academic specializations, the government aims to unlock the potential of Nigerian youth, driving innovation and productivity across key economic sectors.

This bold move reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing the NYSC scheme, ensuring its relevance to contemporary realities.

The shift is anticipated to enhance corps members’ employability, reduce unemployment, and encourage private-sector involvement in youth development initiatives.

CLEEN Foundation Applauds Security Agencies, Advocates Stronger Measures Against Vote Trading in 2024 Ondo Governorship Election

Bilkisu Adejoh

Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, providing citizens with the opportunity to influence governance and leadership. The 2024 Ondo Governorship Election drew national and international attention, placing institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies in the spotlight to protect the integrity of the process.

In light of the above, CLEEN Foundation, a leading voice for public safety, security, and justice in Nigeria, has released its comprehensive final report on the role of security agencies in the 2024 Ondo State Governorship Election.

Presented in Akure, the report lauds the professionalism of security personnel while addressing gaps that require urgent attention to safeguard future electoral processes.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Executive Director, CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma and made available to journalists yesterday in Abuja.

Maduoma stated that to ensure a thorough assessment, CLEEN Foundation deployed trained observers across all 18 local government areas (LGAs) of Ondo State.

These observers monitored the activities of security personnel at 3,933 polling units, supported by the foundation’s Election Security Support Centre (ESSC).

He added that the detailed field data was analyzed to provide insights into the security environment and electoral conduct.

CLEEN Foundation’s observers noted that security personnel were present across polling units, with many arriving before 7:00 a.m., ensuring early readiness.

They disclosed that most polling units were adequately staffed, with at least two officers, and some stations had three or more personnel to manage potential challenges.

The observers noted that security personnel were easily identifiable through their name tags, reflecting adherence to ethical standards. Their professionalism stood out, with 96% of observers describing them as approachable, neutral, and effective in maintaining order, which boosted public confidence in the electoral process.

CLEEN Observers expressed that polling units were largely peaceful, though isolated incidents of conflict were reported. For instance, disputes between party agents in Isalu Jigbokin Ward 8, Unit 002, and voter inducement issues in Okitipupa Ward 2, Unit 016, were swiftly de-escalated by law enforcement personnel.

However, vote trading emerged as a significant challenge. Reports indicated that party agents offered ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 per vote in multiple locations, including Okitipupa Ward 2, PU 16.

Additionally, technical issues with the BVAS device disrupted accreditation in some areas, such as Akure North, Ward 4, PU 1.

CLEEN Foundation emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to adopt anti-vote-trading strategies, including undercover surveillance and voter sensitization campaigns.

Expanding conflict resolution training for security personnel and ensuring their timely deployment to underserved polling units were also highlighted as critical measures.

The foundation called for mechanisms to report and penalize any misconduct among security personnel.

For INEC, the foundation recommended rigorous pre-election testing to enhance the reliability of BVAS devices.

It also urged closer collaboration with anti-corruption agencies to curb vote trading at polling stations.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) were encouraged to intensify voter education campaigns, emphasizing the consequences of electoral offenses while fostering civic responsibility to reduce susceptibility to monetary inducements.

CSOs were also urged to promote active reporting of electoral irregularities by the public.

While commending the exemplary conduct of security personnel, CLEEN Foundation underscored the need for stakeholders to implement robust measures to combat vote trading and uphold the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting public safety, justice, and credible elections, ensuring that every vote reflects the true will of the people.