₦airaland Forum

Youths on Thursday said they were tired of not taking their proper place in the apex political office holding in the country, as the 2023 general elections draw closer.

Nigerian youth have expressed readiness to come together and synergize themselves to occupy strategic positions of leadership in the country.





The youths who spoke at the National Youth Summit and Conference organised by the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) emphasized on the negligence of youths in the country over the years, pointing out that it is high time to take the Bull by the Horn.




The event which was held at the NAF Centre in Jahi-Abuja with the theme: “Mainstreaming the Youth in the National Development Agenda as a Strategic Tool for Youth Empowerment”, had in attendance youths from all works of life.



The President, Nigerian Youth Congress, NYC, Blessing Akinlosotu in his welcome address stated that the summit is aimed at sensitizing youths on issues, policies and programmes that tends to promote the neglect of youths into political offices within the country, adding that the youths are ready to join hands with government to move the nation forward by taking political leadership responsibilities at all levels.


NYC President, Blessing Akinlosotu.
“It is important to state that a nation with a hardworking and creative youth population like ours will develop speedily if it realizes its potentials and harness the same for the betterment of all in the present time and the future to come.

“Mainstreaming the youth in the national agenda should not be construed to mean just recruiting youths in the lower cadre of leadership and government; It is about transforming young people by giving them equal access to all political and socio-economic spheres, and also making them the focal point in the formulation and implementation of government policies,” Akinlosotu said.






Speaking at the event, Hon. Makinde Araoye, the Ekiti Governor’s Special Adviser on Federal Matters, who spoke in the capacity of the Ekiti State governor, His Excellency Dr. Kayode Fayemi urged young Nigerians to be active in party politics ahead of the 2023 general elections.

He noted that besides holding political offices; the energy and knowledge of the youth could also be useful in developing the nation’s economy.




For his part, the NYC Secretary-General, Dr. Edoh Raymond said they are engaging state Governors on the security situation in their states to ensure that the Youth and other Nigerians in those states are safe.


NYC National Secretary, Dr. Edoh Raymond
He added that the Summit will produce a workable document that will enhance the training of youths In certain skills for free, disclosing that NYC has been at the forefront in engaging youths in various states on the need to shun fraudulent activities.

The Chairman, Nigerian Youth Congress’s Governing Board, Dr. Yakubu Shendam while responding to journalists in an exclusive interview at the event called on the Nigerian youth to shun ethnicity and religious sentiment and rather embrace hard work and unity to achieve a common goal.


NYC Chairman Governing Board, Yakub Shendam
In his words, “We are not violent people and we will support Government policies. A lot of programmes were not accessible to the youth because we were not ready but we are now ready which is the reason for this Summit. If we believe in ourselves without segregation, we can take this country. We have power, there is strength in our numbers”, he said.

Crown University Intl. Chartered Inc. Has signed a Memorandum Of Understanding, MoU, with the University of Kara, Togo, on the 8 January 2021, at the Univerisity of Kara, Kara City, Republic of Togo.


At the signing ceremony in Kara city of Togo,
Crown University Intl. Chartered Inc. Which was represented by its Vice-Chancellor, H E UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO top up by UNN Nigeria CSER Malaysia MPRH Institute Iran, WCU USA ICERE Argentina South America and others worldwide) while Prof. Komla Sanda, the Vice-Chancellor University of Kara, Togo resolved and signed an MoU establishing a partnership for "Credit Transfer, Reciprocal Arrangement training and research at all level of studies".



H E UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO top up by UNN Nigeria CSER Malaysia MPRH Institute Iran WCU USA ICERE Argentina South America and others worldwide) in a release to journalists today noted that the objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding which was signed by both reputable tertiary Institutions on Credit Transfer, Reciprocal Arrangement Training and Research at all level of studies is aimed at
articulating the conditions for the partnership.
"Areas In the context of this Memorandum of Understanding, the word “Partnership” shall apply to all activities arranged and carried out by common agreement between the Crown University Intl. Chartered Inc. And the University of Kara, Togo for the mutual benefit of both parties.
The partnership shall include the following aspects, training for capacity building in identified areas of special need such as:
Humanities, Arts, Technologies, Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Pure and Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Management Sciences, and other related courses as well", he said.

Stating further, he said, there shall be reciprocal/dual certifications and top-up degree arrangements between the University of Kara, Togo on undergraduate and graduate programs on a credit transfer-based criterion established by the University of Kara, Togo

"The exchange of staff and students for training and research or other assignments as the case may be; The joint organization of research projects, seminars, workshop, international conference, and colloquia and other training sessions likely to strengthen both Universities.






"Students from Crown University Intl. Chartered Inc. Must meet all other admission and transfer criteria documented in the then-current University of Kara, Togo catalog.


"Developing mutual consultancy and support activities for the advancement of teaching and research; 'The use of laboratories, classroom space, and other research facilities.
All Crown University Intl Chartered Inc. students who are studying in the areas of Humanities, Arts, Technologies, Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Pure and Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Management Sciences and other related courses as well complete their programs at the University of Kara, Togo, shall receive a degree as a dual degree or top-up degrees based on the articulation agreement established between both parties. Development of curriculum, manuals, and other documents for; improving and streamlining procedures and practices and the same thing applied to the University of Kara, Togo depends on available courses and the choice of the students of the parties. Establishing further forms of cooperation in all fields of studies for mutual interest".





H E UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO top up by UNN Nigeria CSER Malaysia MPRH Institute Iran WCU USA ICERE Argentina South America and others worldwide) also disclosed series of obligations entailed in the MoU for both institutions.
According to him, he stated that both Universities shall therefore undertake to Pursue regular exchange of their respective practices and methods in training and research and other fields of common interest; Intensify discussion between their staffs to look for solutions to the problems of either or both parties; Deploy all necessary efforts to ensure funding of activities from the partnership.



Concerning the implementations of the objectives of the signed MoU, he pointed out that Financial resources and materials shall be provided by both parties to look for solutions to its problems or to train its staff. The two parties agreed to organize annual consultative meetings using appropriate technology to aim at appraising the implementation of this partnership, monitoring activities being carried out, and at planning future activities. "Extraordinary meetings may be convened at the initiative of one of the parties to treat issues that need urgent solutions. Crown University Intl Chartered Inc. Shall pay any tuition charged by the University of Kara, Togo per student for all applicable Degrees. Transfer students must submit their Transcripts from former Institutions to the University of Kara, Togo", he added.

Earlier, H E UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO top up by UNN Nigeria CSER Malaysia MPRH Institute Iran WCU USA ICERE Argentina South America and others worldwide) has noted that the partnership is valid for five years from the date of signing and can be renewed by tacit consent.
"At the request of one of the parties, the terms of this partnership may be amended during an extraordinary meeting duly convened for this purpose. Any misunderstanding resulting from the implementation or interpretation of this partnership shall be resolved amicably and through consultation in the best interest of both parties. The suspension or termination of this partnership shall be done on the initiative of one of the parties, subject to, at last, prior notice of six months. However, the parties hereby undertake to complete any ongoing activity at the time of the said termination within a stipulated deadline.
Conclude the present Cooperation Agreement with the purpose of cooperation establishment in the field of education and science, regulation of academic collaboration, joint research and exchange programmes", he said.

The Chief Executive Officer and UN Rep for CSOs Network Afrihealth Optonet Association
(CSOs Network), Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje has been invited to participate in a seminar Organised by African Development Bank, Global Community Of Practice (G-cop) Seminar On Strengthening Institutional Capacity For Inclusive Development In Post COVID-19 Africa.

The letter which was signed by Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, FAAS Senior Director, African Development Institute, African Development Bank Group on March 8, 2021, with Our Ref: ECAD.0/G-CoP/KCU/2021/02/002 as reference number disclosed that the African Development Institute is pleased to invite Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje to the African Development
Bank (AfDB) sixth Global Community of Practice (G-CoP) policy dialogue, scheduled on Monday
15 March 2021, Time 14:00 – 17:30 hours GMT and Tuesday 16 March 2021, Time 08:30 – 11:30
hours GMT for delegates from the Western and Eastern hemispheres, respectively.
“The e-seminar will consider options for “Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Inclusive Development in Post COVID-19 Africa”.



“The African Development Institute (ADI) established a Global Community of Practice (G-CoP) to facilitate policy dialogue and knowledge synthesis to inform technical assistance, training, and policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. In 2020, the Institute hosted five G-CoP
seminars addressing several policy themes on how African countries can build back bolder and better post COVID-19. These seminars focused on policies for enhancing resilience in macro-economic policy management; in food systems and agricultural value chains; in health systems; enhancing transparency and accountability in private and public finance management systems; and financing natural capital for inclusive development in post-COVID-19 Africa.



Each of these seminars highlighted the need to strengthen institutional capacity for inclusive development in Africa – to shore up Africa’s readiness to recover from the multiple shocks caused by COVID-19 and build more resilient economies going forward. To better understand how African
countries can effectively address this recommendation, ADI, and its African and global partners, have been examining how to address the institutional capacity constraints on the continent and the potential measures that could be taken to effectively address the constraints at a transformative scale.



“One emerging consensus from the consultation exercise and research is that the structure and scale of funding available to African institutions (from African countries and globally) are not optimal for unleashing the potential of these institutions to substantially contribute to the advancement of Africa’s development agendas.

“The ADI and its partners are therefore convening a global policy dialogue to better understand how to address this challenge. We recognize that the capacities of knowledge institutions to ramp up focused research and vaccine development efforts contributed in no small measure to the ability of countries to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. As countries seek to achieve herd immunity by procuring vaccines and accelerating the vaccination of citizens, the future of the pandemic in several
African countries remain uncertain – due to limited institutional capacity at various scales.

The letter further stated that the goal of the seminar is to share experiences and synthesize knowledge on what African countries and Development Partners can do differently to address the longstanding institutional capacity challenges in Africa post-COVID-19.
“The recommendations from the seminar will be disseminated to relevant policymakers in the Bank Group’s member countries, and regional stakeholders to inform
their policy responses in Africa.
The seminar is being co-convened by the ADI and several pan-African capacity developments and research organizations including the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF); The
Association of African Universities (AAU); the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC); African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI),
and several African Think Tanks, Universities, and Research Organizations. Development Partners, Global and African Philanthropies are invited to share their experiences and proffer implementable policies for strengthening capacities in Africa-led Institutions in a post-COVID-19 world.
All contributions during the seminar are treated under Chatham House Rules. Development Partners, Global and African Philanthropies are invited to share their experiences and proffer implementable”.



Affirming the kind of material Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje is made up of, the letter stated that “Considering your wealth of experience on the subject, we would like to cordially invite you to
participate in the dialogue to help shape a Continental Strategy for Mobilizing Resources for Africa’s Knowledge Capacity and Institutional Development in post-COVID-19 Africa”.

Also, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) had given its ‘Record of Achievement’ certificate in ‘Orientation to national deployment and vaccination planning for COVID-19 vaccines’, to Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, on 12 March 2021.

The Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry Of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, OFR, KSG, at International Conference Commemorating the 2021 International Women’s Day (IWD) organised by Afrihealth Optonet Association held on the 4th March 2021 applauded the CSO for its resilient efforts in curbing the GBV menace in Africa and beyond, pointing that Afrihealth is one of its partners that has shown great commitment in its pursuit for a free GBV Africa.






The minister who was ably represented by Mrs. Oladipo Funke, Ag. Director Women Development Department of the FMWA, in her Keynote address, said, "I am delighted to deliver an address at this event on International Conference titled “Harnessing And Promoting Women’s Leadership To Overcome The COVID-19 Pandemic And Achieve The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) By 2030” in commemoration of the year 2021 International Women’s Day (IWD).




"As you are aware 8th March each year is celebrated worldwide as the International Women’s Day. It is a global day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women in all works of life. The day also marks a call to action for the promotion of gender parity. The theme for the 2021 International Women’s Day (IWD) commemoration is “Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a Covid-19 World”.




"The purpose of celebrating this day is to acknowledge the contribution of women to the strengthening of international peace and to recognize that the participation, development, and equality of women are essential for the attainment of social progress and the full enjoyments of human rights. In Nigeria, the day has been used over the year as a platform for harnessing efforts on behalf of women’s development not only at the federal level but also at the state levels. Several activities are usually planned at the Federal level to mark the celebration ultimately aimed at integrating women and girls into the mainstream of national development. It is no longer news that women and girls are disproportionately and differentially affected by the pandemic, whether as frontline health care workers or as victims of increasing levels of gender-based violence amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.





"I commend Afrihealth Optonet Association for choosing this day 4th March 2021 to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day. The 2021 theme was carefully chosen to meet the social, economic, cultural, health, and political challenges faced by women. I equally commend you for putting our women and girls as a priority in your programme, and I want to assure you that every good work has its rewards.



"At the 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, women are recognized as a key enabler of each of the development goals. Women are being used as tools for peace, unity, and development, and are being accorded with huge support bearing in mind that they are the most vulnerable group in our society.



"On this note, may I appeal to everyone to desist from any action that will lead to violence against women and girls (VAWG) which has increased in the society due to COVID-19 Pandemic. You can agree with me, that a lot of women and girls suffered several cases of abuse in the face of the Covid-19 Pandemic.  You will recall that we witness an upsurge in GBV cases in the lockdown measures put in place by the Government to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 pandemic", She said.




 



Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje (Nigeria), Global Coordinator, Chief Executive Officer-CS4EGBV Project/ Afrihealth Optonet Association (CSO's Network) who was also the moderator of the event, reacting to the Minister's Commendation, assured her of continuous efforts in making sure that Africa is free from GBV menace, as he applauds her for grazing the event despite her chocked schedules.


Country Intervention Topics And Speakers were: EGYPT: Investing in Women’s Health: nursing perspective for community development and gender equality – Professor Hayat Gomma, Full Professor, Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, CAMEROON: Violation of women`s rights on the on-going Anglophone crisis in Cameroon; by Fobi Miterand, Co-Founder of Nanny Africa, Cameroon – a member of Afrihealth Optonet Association [CSOs Network], ZIMBABWE: Mental Health Wellness during COVID-19: Self-care; by Tadiwanashe Burukai-Matutu (Zimbabwe), KENYA: Reproductive and Sexual Justice in Sub-Saharan Africa; by Barmasai Titus, Project Manager- Sunrise Foundation, Kenya.



Countries represented include Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Egypt, Tunisia, Ghana, Sudan, South Africa, Belgium, Burundi, Uganda, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, South America, United Kingdom, Kenya, Malaysia, and Switzerland

As part of efforts to promote the International University’s vision and mission on global quality higher Education towards the fulfilment of SDGs Goals number 4, the Vice- Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus) has approvedKingson Management and Health Institute Ghana as constituent Campus.


This was contained in a press statement made available to newsmen, Nigerian media Organizations by the VC’s Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike who stated that the Board of Governing Council of the Great higher International Citadel of Learning .


UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu then enjoined the members of the Board of Trustees of the affiliated University to work towards the achievement of the global higher institution.


The World Acclaimed Distinguished ICT Professor then enjoined students all over the World to key into the Programs of the affiliate campus in Ghana of Crown University International Chartered Inc, Argentina, USA and other parter campuses Worldwide

The Founder of Minaret International Univerisity the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide has Applauded Osun State Governor Gboyega for making the higher institution a Citadel of learning and Islamic Culture as part of his major contributions to the growth and development of Education in the State.


This was contained in a speech made available to Newsmen in Asaba, Delta State capital by a member of the University's Board of Trustees, UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, on open ceremony lecture delivered by Amir (Head) Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria, Barrister Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, At The Inauguration And Official Turning Of The Sod Of Minaret International University, Ikirun State Of Osun By His Excellency Governor Gboyega Isiaq Oyetola, Executive Governor, State Of Osun On 9th MARCH,2021 Bismillah Rahman Raheem(In the name of Allah, the Gracious and Ever Merciful.)

In the words of ALATOYE as contained in the speech: "It is a fact of history that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria pioneered Muslim missionary education in Nigeria in 1922 with the opening of first Muslim primary school, Talimul Islam primary school Elegbata in Lagos Island, inaugurated by Late Me Henry Carr, the then Colonial Education officer for the Lagos Colony".

"The names of the Board of Trustees of Minaret International University are Barr A F Alatoye, UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, Prof M A Fashola, Prof. M B Olaleye , Prof A R Abdullah, Prof Abdul Roheem Giwa , Prof A F Fehintola, Prof Muhammad Dan Lami, Prof Ismaila S Olasunkanmi, Dr. Y A Habeeb ,Dr. LD Busari , Dr. Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu, Dr. Mulikat O Abdus Salam, Alh M O Lakunle-Bello".

"Two schools for the memorization of the Holy Quran for boys and girls with 9 to -13 years as well as Science College which will metamorphose into a technical college any moment from now were established in Ilaro too".

"The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria was quite methodical in approach to educational pursuits for better understanding of the religion of Islam, the humanities, science and deep knowledge of the Holy Quran. Aside from this we have used the educational institutions to produce manpower resources and generate employments for Nigerians".

" Most importantly, we are very grateful to His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Monsroor Ahmad, The World-Wide Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at for His kind approval of the University to be sited at Ikirun in Osun State. We pray to Allah swt to accept this project as an act of Ibadah. Thank you for honouring our invitations".

The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Business Membership Organizations (FOMSBON) are set to launch a five (5) years strategic plan in collaboration with the Bank of Industry and other stakeholders.

The resolution was reached after the Board of Trustees of the Forum for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Business Membership Organizations (FOMSBON),
led by Mrs. Rose D. S. Gyar, paid a courtesy visit to Bank of Industry Headquarters at Abuja in a bid to solicit collaboration and support for the official inauguration of the platform and launch of a 5-year strategic plan aimed at creating an approximated 2.5m jobs annually by MSMEs, establishing an institutional structure to support sustainable availability of long term affordable business finance for MSMEs, and create a credible data bank of MSMEs disaggregated by sector, location, gender, size of investments, needs, and others.



In a welcome address by the team lead, Mrs. Rose D. S. Gyar of the
Forum for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Business Membership Organizations (FOMSBON), superficially gave an insight into the organization.


According to her, she said, the forum is a registered platform of MSME operators' groups across gender, economic sectors, and social status to promote coordinated evidence-based advocacy on cross-cutting issues within the MSME space, for structured engagement with stakeholders in both public and private sectors.


Gyar, during the visit, requested for a sustainable working relationship with the bank to engender seamless growth within the MSME space while also engendering competitiveness in the Products, Systems, and Processes of MSMEs.

Earlier, she disclosed that FOMSBON is ready to work with other stakeholders to ensure that there is a sustained supply of products, goods, and services from MSMEs for trade leveraging on AFCFTA and AGOA initiatives.






Reacting to the submission of the FOMSBON, the representative of the bank, Mr. Tolulope D. Tolusawe appreciated the visit and informed the team that BOI was open to collaborations towards ensuring that MSMEs and indeed the Nigerian Industries are kept running which is one of their major mandates.

Tolulope went further emphasizing that the Bank of Industry manages investment funds and therefore it should be clear that guidelines for operations must be followed and adhered to.


Similarly, he added that it is necessary to continue the conversation with the view to understanding the needs of the MSMEs and workings of BOI to streamline areas of challenges, pointing out that the team would have to meet with other higher-level officers of the bank to continue the discussions.

The World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, has identified with Women globally on the International Womens' Day celebration, 8 March 2021.


The World Grand President, and UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, who had always advocated for the achievement of the 17goals of the Sustainable Development Goals around the world disclosed this release to journalists today 8th March 2021 in Abuja.


Knowing fully well that this year's International Women's Day theme is, "ChooseToChallenge
A challenged", had actively engaged Women in a usual manner as to correcting some ills all around the world through the instrumentality of pressure groups, protests and other legally widows around the globe.



" Every year, March 8 is observed globally as International Women’s Day. The theme for 2021 is Choose to Challenge.
The celebration provides ample opportunity to reflect on how women are honoured".

The World Grand President and UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, in his release had applauded the Nigeria First Lady, Her Excellency Aisha Buhari for her doggedness and resilient efforts in empowering other women even to International offices.



Prof. Bashiru giving an insight on the history about women's day to get a lot of women informed and see reasons why they should challenge the challenges challenging the earth today elucidated that,
" Chinese communists took up International Women’s Day in 1922 and officially recognized the holiday following their victory in the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Celebrations remained confined to communist dictatorships and their fellow travelers living in free countries until the United Nations adopted International Women’s Day in 1975. Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.

"The Soviet Union continued to celebrate the holiday that initiated its empire throughout seven horrifying decades of communist rule as Stalin’s purges, famines, and deportations murdered 50 million Russian subjects; his pact with Hitler initiated World War II; Nikita Khrushchev’s belligerence nearly torched the world in the nuclear holocaust; and the Kremlin enslaved one-sixth of the globe behind an Iron Curtain, to name the highlights.

"There is a curious historical parallel that, just as the first woman plunged mankind from Edenic paradise, International Women’s Day condemned humanity to unprecedented horror in the twentieth century".






Prof. Bashiru, in his release, commended the Nigeria First Lady, Her Excellency Aisha Buhari over the fits attained in the struggle for more women in national and international offices, "Deputy UN Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, Zainab Ahmed, Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Sadiya Umar Farouq, Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Ngozi Okonja Iweala over her appointment as the World Trade Organization's Director-General,
Pauline Tallen, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Mariam Yalwaji Katagum, Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sharon Ikeazor, Honourable Minister of State for Environment, Gbemisola Saraki, Honourable Minister of State for Transportation, Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, Honourable Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Folashade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mariam Uwais, Special Adviser to the President, Jumoke Oduwole, Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Trade and Investment, and Secretary of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Hadiza Bala-Usman, Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson and CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Chioma Ejikeme, Executive Secretary, Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), Patience Oniha, Director-General, Debt Management Office (DMO), Aisha Dahir-Umar, Director-General, National Pension Commission, Jummai A.M. Audi, Chairperson, Nigerian Law Reform Commission (NLRC), Yewande Sadiku, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Gloria Akobundu, National Coordinator/Chief Executive of New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), Nigeria, Nnenna Akajemeli, National Coordinator/CEO, SERVICOM , Folashade Joseph, Managing Director, Nigeria Agriculture Insurance Corporation (NAIC), Cecilia Gaya, Director-General, Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Ronke Sokefun, Chairperson, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Aishah Ahmad, Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Stella Ojekwe-Onyejeli, Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Oge Modie, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Strategic Communications, Moji Rhodes. Senior Special Assistant on Social Development and Humanitarian Affairs, Toyin Adeniji, Executive Director, Micro Enterprises, Bank of Industry (Oversees the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme, GEEP), Stella Okotete, Executive Director, Business Development, NEXIM Bank, Omolola Abiola-Edewor, Executive Director, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Imaan Sulaiman–Ibrahim, Director-General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)
" We also commend our father, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari for the support he has given women in the country".

The Director-General, Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development, GLOCHEED, Mrs. Rose Gyar has called on the Federal government to make Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurship a priority as a means to boosting the economy considering the catastrophe that has befallen the sector as a result of COVID-19.

The Director-General who also advocated for increased participation of women in small and medium Scale Entrepreneurship made this known in a release to journalists in Abuja, recently.


Mrs. Rose while urging the government on making SME a priority, disclosed that her organization would soon be staging a hitch-free event with FCT Mass Literacy and Raw Materials Research and Development Council,
RMRDC, as to enhance the speedy achievement of the Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development's goals.


Rose who also applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for initiating schemes, programs, and policies geared toward inhabiting poverty in the country lauded the SMEDAN Director-General, Dr. Dikko Umaru Radda, stressing that his tireless efforts in adding value to the Agency through keying into the Buhari led government initiatives regarding SMEDAN is a welcome development.

The UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Aremu Bashiru has congratulated Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji over pioneer VC appointment of Ahman Pategi University describing him as a renowned distinguished orator and one of the most promising son of Iwo Land.



He further stated that Prof Adedimeji is a great educator of 21st Century, very dynamic researcher, wonderful writer, administrator, a foremost newspaper columnist and very brilliant academician, hardworking administrator and a stalwart researcher.


The UNESCO Laureate convened this in a congratulatory message made available to jounalists today.

He also lauded Ahman Pategi University Board of Trustees for discovered a good professor that possesses every good quality needed to succeed in his new task of assisting the new university to lay a healthy, strong and sustainable foundation, which will stand the test of time praying that the new Vice Chancellor of the University will live long, good health, wisdom, prosperity and future success.

However, Ahman Pategi University is one of the twenty (20 ) new private universities recently approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.






Retrospectively, Prof Adedimeji, a professor of Pragmatics and Applied Linguistics, was until his appointment a lecturer and one of the most respected academic figures at the University of Ilorin.






He holds a B.A. (Honours), M.A. and Ph.D. in English Language from the University of Ilorin. He studied Media and Communications at Governors State University, Illinois, USA.

He also received training in peace studies at Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, Notre Dame University, Indiana, USA.

He is a former Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies of the University of Ilorin and ex-member of the Governing Council of the International Peace Research Association.

Prof Adedimeji is also a Fulbright scholar who holds a certificate of the Virtual Institute for Higher Education Pedagogy (VIHEP) of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria.

He is also a UNDP consultant, columnist and public speaker.

…De-rank Sen. Smart Adeyemi For Legislative Idiocy; Demand For Immediate Retraction And Apology To The Executive Governor, Government And People Of Abia State.

Sen. Adeyemi during the Senate plenary of 23rd February, 2021, while contributing on a motion, suddenly lost his lucid moment, digressed from the subject matter before the Senate to recklessly claim that “The governor of Abia State is a DRUNKARD.”



“My attention has been drawn to a shocking act of legislative idiocy perpetuated by Sen. Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West), wherein he desecrated the sanctity and the treasured sacredness of the Senate and the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by his verbal assault on His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the Executive Governor of Abia State, the Government and good people of Abia State as a whole”, Darlington said.

The Representative, Darlington Nwokocha,
Member, Representing Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives made the call yesterday in a release made available to journalists in Abuja.



In his words, “the Kogi Senator’s verbal assault on the personality and the towering accomplishments of the Executive Governor of Abia State, was not only unparliamentary and disgraceful but highly immature and reprehensible.

“I have maintained a studied silence in the last fews days, to give Senator Adeyemi the opportunity to regain his sanity and subsequently mobilize his kinsmen to Abia, to apologize to our governor, the Government and people of Abia State. Moreso, the outraged Senator didn’t just assault the Governor of Abia State but also trampled on the legislative privileges of all Members of the National Assembly from Abia State including my humble self”.



He further stressed that One would have thought that Sen. Adeyemi, having served three terms in the Senate Chambers would have gathered the requisite wisdom required of a Ranking Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Unfortunately, the Senator’s despicable outburst has shown that he lacks the necessary knowledge, qualifications and intellectual legislative decorum to continue to enjoy the privileges of a Ranking Senator.
“It must be noted that the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and indeed, the National Assembly as a whole is a highly revered democratic institution where Presidents bow with reverence and important businesses of government are conducted in line with section 4 of the Nigerian constitution and other relevant rules of procedure. The Hallow chamber of the Senate is a place of utmost truth, where integrity, decorum and maturity are of high premium. Thus, the Senate must and should never under any guise condone the wishy-washy behavior and character deficit of the Kogi senator. As doing so, will completely erode the moral and ethical qualification of such privilege of bows and respect from highly dignified personalities”.

Darlington pointed out that the brazen rascality and unguarded utterances of Sen. Adeyemi is a disgraceful desecration of the Hallowed chamber of the Nigerian Senate, threat to democracy, bastardization of the public image of the National Assembly, a Breach of his Legislative Powers, Privileges and Code of Conduct for public officers, which must be treated in accordance with laid down legislative practices and procedure as a deterrent to those who may wish to manifest undistinguished behavior in the future.
“Nigerians should note that the unruly behavior of Sen. Adeyemi is a complete violation of the 1999 constitution of the Federal of Nigeria (As amended), a violation of my privileged rights, conferred by the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act. Cap. L12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and other statues, Legislative Practices, Precedents, Usages, Customs and Conventions; including, Order 53, Rule 4, Order 14, Rule 18 of the Senate Standing Orders; as well as, Order 6, Rule 3 and 4 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.



"I therefore, call on the President of the Senate, leadership and Members of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to immediately denounce and condemn the legislative immaturity displayed by Sen. Adeyemi; as well as De-Rank him. Also, his strange behavior should be subjected to full investigation by the relevant Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges or Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives”.

“As a Ranking member of the National Assembly from Abia State, I further demand on behalf of the good people of my federal constituency and the “highly intelligent, educated and enterprising people of Abia State” alluded in the Senator’s outburst; an official apology to His Excellency, the Governor of Abia State and also publicly retract his unparliamentary comments within the next three legislative days. Failure to do so, will attract immediate legal action against Senator Smart Adeyemi.

“It is also worthy of note that since Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu assumed the reins of power in 2015, Abia State has experienced sustainable peace and security, thriving educational, health and agricultural sectors including commerce, industry and trade. As well as becoming the fastest economic and innovation rising hub under the “Made in Aba (MIA) Products initiative, that has designated Abia State today as a choice destination for foreign direct investment.



“His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the hard working Governor of Abia State remains unperturbed, and will not be distracted from his avowed commitment to good governance.

“I therefore, urge the leadership of the National Assembly, all Members of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in particular to rise in defence of the Rules of legislative practices and procedure to save the image, integrity and sanctity of the first of arm of government that was desecrated by the unparliamentary behaviour of Sen. Adeyemi.

“The world is watching us. We must not fail”, he added.

…De-rank Sen. Smart Adeyemi For Legislative Idiocy; Demand For Immediate Retraction And Apology To The Executive Governor, Government And People Of Abia State.

Sen. Adeyemi during the Senate plenary of 23rd February, 2021, while contributing on a motion, suddenly lost his lucid moment, digressed from the subject matter before the Senate to recklessly claim that “The governor of Abia State is a DRUNKARD.”



“My attention has been drawn to a shocking act of legislative idiocy perpetuated by Sen. Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West), wherein he desecrated the sanctity and the treasured sacredness of the Senate and the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by his verbal assault on His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the Executive Governor of Abia State, the Government and good people of Abia State as a whole”, Darlington said.

The Representative, Darlington Nwokocha,
Member, Representing Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives made the call yesterday in a release made available to journalists in Abuja.



In his words, “the Kogi Senator’s verbal assault on the personality and the towering accomplishments of the Executive Governor of Abia State, was not only unparliamentary and disgraceful but highly immature and reprehensible.

“I have maintained a studied silence in the last fews days, to give Senator Adeyemi the opportunity to regain his sanity and subsequently mobilize his kinsmen to Abia, to apologize to our governor, the Government and people of Abia State. Moreso, the outraged Senator didn’t just assault the Governor of Abia State but also trampled on the legislative privileges of all Members of the National Assembly from Abia State including my humble self”.



He further stressed that One would have thought that Sen. Adeyemi, having served three terms in the Senate Chambers would have gathered the requisite wisdom required of a Ranking Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Unfortunately, the Senator’s despicable outburst has shown that he lacks the necessary knowledge, qualifications and intellectual legislative decorum to continue to enjoy the privileges of a Ranking Senator.
“It must be noted that the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and indeed, the National Assembly as a whole is a highly revered democratic institution where Presidents bow with reverence and important businesses of government are conducted in line with section 4 of the Nigerian constitution and other relevant rules of procedure. The Hallow chamber of the Senate is a place of utmost truth, where integrity, decorum and maturity are of high premium. Thus, the Senate must and should never under any guise condone the wishy-washy behavior and character deficit of the Kogi senator. As doing so, will completely erode the moral and ethical qualification of such privilege of bows and respect from highly dignified personalities”.

Darlington pointed out that the brazen rascality and unguarded utterances of Sen. Adeyemi is a disgraceful desecration of the Hallowed chamber of the Nigerian Senate, threat to democracy, bastardization of the public image of the National Assembly, a Breach of his Legislative Powers, Privileges and Code of Conduct for public officers, which must be treated in accordance with laid down legislative practices and procedure as a deterrent to those who may wish to manifest undistinguished behavior in the future.
“Nigerians should note that the unruly behavior of Sen. Adeyemi is a complete violation of the 1999 constitution of the Federal of Nigeria (As amended), a violation of my privileged rights, conferred by the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act. Cap. L12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and other statues, Legislative Practices, Precedents, Usages, Customs and Conventions; including, Order 53, Rule 4, Order 14, Rule 18 of the Senate Standing Orders; as well as, Order 6, Rule 3 and 4 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.



"I therefore, call on the President of the Senate, leadership and Members of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to immediately denounce and condemn the legislative immaturity displayed by Sen. Adeyemi; as well as De-Rank him. Also, his strange behavior should be subjected to full investigation by the relevant Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges or Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives”.

“As a Ranking member of the National Assembly from Abia State, I further demand on behalf of the good people of my federal constituency and the “highly intelligent, educated and enterprising people of Abia State” alluded in the Senator’s outburst; an official apology to His Excellency, the Governor of Abia State and also publicly retract his unparliamentary comments within the next three legislative days. Failure to do so, will attract immediate legal action against Senator Smart Adeyemi.

“It is also worthy of note that since Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu assumed the reins of power in 2015, Abia State has experienced sustainable peace and security, thriving educational, health and agricultural sectors including commerce, industry and trade. As well as becoming the fastest economic and innovation rising hub under the “Made in Aba (MIA) Products initiative, that has designated Abia State today as a choice destination for foreign direct investment.



“His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the hard working Governor of Abia State remains unperturbed, and will not be distracted from his avowed commitment to good governance.

“I therefore, urge the leadership of the National Assembly, all Members of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in particular to rise in defence of the Rules of legislative practices and procedure to save the image, integrity and sanctity of the first of arm of government that was desecrated by the unparliamentary behaviour of Sen. Adeyemi.

“The world is watching us. We must not fail”, he added.

The Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development Youth Network has today met with the leadership of Union Bank in a bid to partner in facilitating access to the redefined Anchor Borrowers Programme which is aimed at encouraging youths engagement in agriculture.



The Leaders from various youths clusters, both male and female who participated in the meeting harped on the need for zero account opening to encourage participation from rural areas, timely completion of the implementation process for the smooth take-off of the program and early release of funds to facilitate access to land on lease within the FCT. They also called on the government to demonstrate Sincerity and transparency in the implementation of the programme to differentiate it from previous engagements of citizens with the process which did not work and no feedback to citizens, after interested farmers had invested their time and resources in the documentation process. They also enjoined the bank to fast track the process because the raining season is almost here to avoid putting the farmers in jeopardy for non repayment of the loan collected due to wrong timing of disbursements which would usually affect repayment plan and put the farmers at bad light as loan defaulters.



Earlier, the Director-General, Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development (GLOCHEED),Mrs. Rose Gyar admonished the youths to be proactive in taking advantage of the opportunity and also create awareness among other youth clusters for more participation so as to reduce poverty and unemployment.

However, She applauded Union Bank for accepting to partner with GLOCHEED and to work with the youths on the programme.

Similarly, she also commended the Federal Government for the initiative and called on the government to always identify credible platforms of informal operators across sectors and work with them for coordination and result-oriented implementation processes of government initiatives.


Speaking further, she promised Union Bank representatives that GLOCHEED would also mobilise women through the Association of Women in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (AWIMSME) to also participate in the programme because there are a lot of rural women that could benefit if guided properly on how to engage with the process, hence the partnership with AWIMSME to provide such platform for coordination and feedback.

The Programme Officer of the GLOCHEED YOUTHS NETWORK, Mr. Gaya Wakili assured the DG, GLOCHEED of the commitment of the youths' leadership to ensure participation of youths across states/FCT, as well as in the 774 LGAs/ACs. He also informed the meeting of their willingness to also liaise with other sectors of the economy to ensure youths participation in the various programmes aimed at empowering the youths to reduce unemployment and poverty.

The National Secretary, Association of Women in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises AWIMSME, Biodun Ogundipe, and National Coordinator, Mrs. Nancy Ladi Nathaniel also pledged their commitment in ensuring that the process with women would be smooth and seamless because the women farmers are already in clusters which would enhance coordination without stress.

The Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development Youth Network has today met with the leadership of Union Bank in a bid to partner in facilitating access to the redefined Anchor Borrowers Programme which is aimed at encouraging youths engagement in agriculture.



The Leaders from various youths clusters, both male and female who participated in the meeting harped on the need for zero account opening to encourage participation from rural areas, timely completion of the implementation process for the smooth take-off of the program and early release of funds to facilitate access to land on lease within the FCT. They also called on the government to demonstrate Sincerity and transparency in the implementation of the programme to differentiate it from previous engagements of citizens with the process which did not work and no feedback to citizens, after interested farmers had invested their time and resources in the documentation process. They also enjoined the bank to fast track the process because the raining season is almost here to avoid putting the farmers in jeopardy for non repayment of the loan collected due to wrong timing of disbursements which would usually affect repayment plan and put the farmers at bad light as loan defaulters.



Earlier, the Director-General, Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development (GLOCHEED),Mrs. Rose Gyar admonished the youths to be proactive in taking advantage of the opportunity and also create awareness among other youth clusters for more participation so as to reduce poverty and unemployment.

However, She applauded Union Bank for accepting to partner with GLOCHEED and to work with the youths on the programme.

Similarly, she also commended the Federal Government for the initiative and called on the government to always identify credible platforms of informal operators across sectors and work with them for coordination and result-oriented implementation processes of government initiatives.


Speaking further, she promised Union Bank representatives that GLOCHEED would also mobilise women through the Association of Women in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (AWIMSME) to also participate in the programme because there are a lot of rural women that could benefit if guided properly on how to engage with the process, hence the partnership with AWIMSME to provide such platform for coordination and feedback.

The Programme Officer of the GLOCHEED YOUTHS NETWORK, Mr. Gaya Wakili assured the DG, GLOCHEED of the commitment of the youths' leadership to ensure participation of youths across states/FCT, as well as in the 774 LGAs/ACs. He also informed the meeting of their willingness to also liaise with other sectors of the economy to ensure youths participation in the various programmes aimed at empowering the youths to reduce unemployment and poverty.

The National Secretary, Association of Women in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises AWIMSME, Biodun Ogundipe, and National Coordinator, Mrs. Nancy Ladi Nathaniel also pledged their commitment in ensuring that the process with women would be smooth and seamless because the women farmers are already in clusters which would enhance coordination without stress.

The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations Alliance (REEEA-A)… Will be having its Launching on 25th February 2021 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

The body which has Renewable Energy and Energy Efficient Technologies (REEETs) as a means of improving energy access in Nigeria and beyond as it’s vision and improving the quality and standards of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies (REEETs) research, policy and practice by strengthening the capacity for REEETs knowledge generation, dissemination and deployment for sustainable development of Nigeria and beyond, as it’s mission is inviting the general public to its official inauguration ceremony.



Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, the National Publicity Secretary of CREN – a member-Association of the nascent Alliance (REEEA-A), who disclosed this to journalists via a release stated that the overall Objectives of the organisation is to build Nigeria’s capabilities in renewable energy and energy efficient technologies for sustainable development

Dr. Uzodinma, elucidating further, stated that a key aspect for the development of Renewable Energy (RE) and Energy Efficiency (EE) in Nigeria is the need to strengthen established organizations to efficiently and effectively play their role as promoters under a single body.
“Consequently, the ‘Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations – Alliance’ (REEEA – Alliance) was established as the umbrella body with the support of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP II). NESP is a technical assistance programme, co-funded by the European Union and the German Government and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power. NESP aims at enabling and fostering investments in the domestic market for RE and EE and at improving access to Electricity in disadvantaged, mostly rural areas in Nigeria.
Besides NESP, the REEEA – Alliance is also supported through the ‘Chamber and Associations Partnership Program’ which is financed by the Federal German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Under this partnership project the German Solar Industry Association, BSW-Solar, based in Berlin supports the newly founded REEEA-Alliance to develop into a strong, independent, and sustainable organization”.



In a brief background about the body, he said, the REEEA-Alliance was registered in September 2020 and the founding members of the Association are:
Association of Energy Engineers of Nigeria (AEE)
Council of Renewable Energy in Nigeria (CREN)
Renewable and Alternative Energy Society of Nigeria (RAESON)
Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN)
Sustainable Energy Practitioners Association of Nigeria (SEPAN)
Solar Energy Society of Nigeria (SESN)
The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations.
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Afrihealth Optonet Association [CSOs Network] – with consultative status at UN ECOSOC in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Nigeria invites stakeholders in women’s development issues, to an international conference to mark the 2021 International Women’s Day, on March 4, 2021, starting at 10:00 AM West Central Africa (9.00 am GMT).




The CEO and Global Coordinator, Afrihealth Optonet Association, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje in a release to journalists today in Abuja disclosed that the theme of the event is "Harnessing and Promoting Women’s Leadership to Overcome the COVID-19 Pandemic and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030".

Speaking further, Dr. Uzodinma stated that the keynote address will be delivered by Her Excellency, Dame Pauline Tallen, OFR, KSSG; Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Nigeria
"The Conference shall also receive interventions from notable panelists, activists, participants and stakeholders in Women's Development issues, in a global audience".

Continuing, he gave a brief insight on Afrihealth Optonet Association, " the CSO is a civil society network and think-tank of about 600 (Six Hundred) organizations across Africa, the Caribbean and global South for Systems Strengthening in Health; Energy, Climate Change and Environment; Nutrition and Food Security; and Gender, Good Governance, Democracy, Human Security, Rights, and Dignity; Human Capital Development; promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). AFRIHEALTH is committed to the propagation of ‘Health’ as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and health systems strengthening, especially in the areas of the SDGs, diseases prevention, provision of care, and impact mitigations using partnerships, advocacy, research/evidence-generation, capacity development, outreaches, and monitoring and evaluation as strategies; focusing on rural and poor urban communities, vulnerable and disadvantaged populations; and exploring the interlinkages between Health, Energy and Environment, Nutrition and Food Security, and Gender, Good Governance and Human Rights".

The National Women Leader, Allied Peoples' Movement (APM), Hajiya Hafsat M.B.Usman
has congratulated Her Excellency Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her emergence and confirmation as the next Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The felicitation which was convened in a congratulatory message, signed by the amiable National Women Leader of the Allied Peoples' Movement, Hajiya Hafsat M.B.Usman today,
described Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's appointment as meritorious.
"We thank H.E. President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria, the Africa Union and all the countries, groups and individuals who made this election possible.

"It is worthy of note that this appointment is coming at a time when COVID-19 is ravaging trade and economies around the world, we are not unmindful that your tenure could be very challenging. We are however, resolutely confident that Dr. Okonjo-Iweala shall deliver, judging from her track records of achievements as the Managing Director of the World Bank, Minister of Finance of Nigeria, Chairman of the Board of GAVI, among others.

"As the first woman, first African and first black person to head the WTO, we urge the new Director General to consider focusing on achieving gender-balanced trades and economic activities across the word especially in Africa and the developing world; as well as urgently address the socioeconomic and health disasters brough upon world trade by COVID-19 and persisting unfair global trade environment. We urge your Excellency to enthrone a world trade regime that will ‘Leave No One Behind’".




Stressing on the doggedness of Ngozi, "We extol the focused optimism and doggedness with which Dr. Ngozi progressed in the last one year in her desire to serve the world for the better, and urge politicians and seekers of power to learn from her approach.

"We wish H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala a successful tenure as the DG of the WTO, and look forward to the renewal of your term in the next four years, in lieu of your anticipated excellent performance. We know she’ll deliver", she added.

The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alh. Yahaya Adoza Bello has inaugurated the Chairman Governing Council, Kogi State College of Education Technical, Kabba, Dr. Peter Tukura at the Government House, Lokoja on Wednesday.

Governor Yahaya Bello charged the newly inaugurated Chairman Governing Council, Kogi State College of Education Technical, Kabba, Dr. Peter Tukura to be mind resolute toward hard work that would metamorphose into a visible result, pointing out that Kogi State is a state that is known for its academic excellence and as such it should be upheld.

Dr. Peter Tukura who spoke to newsmen immediately after his inauguration specially thanked Governor Yahaya Bello for believing in him and the privilege to serve the state in that capacity.


Dr. Peter also assured the Governor of his persistent efforts in transforming the College through the instrumentality of his (Yahaya Bello) overwhelming support and backing.
"I specifically thank the amiable, dogged, and ever-resilient governor, His Excellency Governor Alh. Yahaya Bello for the privilege given me to serve. I assure him, I wouldn't turn him down. I will do all I can to deliver a better educational system in the college that he would be proud of".

African civil society organizations under the aegis of Afrihealth Optonet Association has congratulated Her Excellency Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her emergence and confirmation as the next Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The felicitation which was convened in a congratulatory message , signed by Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, CEO/Global Coordinator Afrihealth Optonet Association (CSOs Network)
described Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's appointment as well deserved.
"We thank H.E. President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria, the Africa Union and all the countries, groups and individuals who made this election possible.

"Aware that this appointment is coming at a time when COVID-19 is ravaging trade and economies around the world, we are not unmindful that your tenure could be very challenging. We are however, resolutely confident that Dr. Okonjo-Iweala shall deliver, judging from her track records of achievements as the Managing Director of the World Bank, Minister of Finance of Nigeria, Chairman of the Board of GAVI, among others.

"As the first woman, first African and first black person to head the WTO, we urge the new Director General to consider focusing on achieving gender-balanced trades and economic activities across the word especially in Africa and the developing world; as well as urgently address the socioeconomic and health disasters brough upon world trade by COVID-19 and persisting unfair global trade environment. We urge your Excellency to enthrone a world trade regime that will ‘Leave No One Behind’".

Continuing, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje gave a brief background of the organization stating that
Afrihealth Optonet Association is a CSOs network/think-tank of 600 organizations in the global South for the promotion of Health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being; and the SDGs, using partnerships, advocacy, research/evidence-generation, capacity development, outreaches, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) as strategies; while focusing on rural and poor urban communities, vulnerable and disadvantaged populations; and exploring the nexus/interlinkages between Health – including HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Energy and Environment – including climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, Nutrition and Food Security, and Gender, Good Governance and Human Rights. Afrihealth has a Consultative Status at the United Nations ECOSOC


Stressing on the doggedness of Ngozi, "We extol the calmness and doggedness with which Dr. Ngozi progressed in the last one year in her desire to serve the world for the better, and urge politicians and seekers of power to learn from her approach.

"We wish H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala a successful tenure as the DG of the WTO, and look forward to the renewal of your term in the next four years, in lieu of your anticipated excellent performance. We know she’ll deliver", he added.

The Director-General, Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development, GLOCHEED, Mrs. Rose Gyar has congratulated Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala over her emergence as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The Director-General, Mrs. Rose Gyar today 17 Feb. 2021 congratulated Igozi on behalf of the Centre, following the announcement of the World Trade organization revealing Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's appointment via its official tweeter handle @WTO.org.

According to the tweet, “members made history when the General Council agreed by consensus to select Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria as the organization’s seventh Director-General.”

It is worthy of note that upon resumption on 1 March, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala will become the first woman and the first African to be chosen as Director-General. Her term, renewable, will expire on 31 August 2025.

Rose, in her words, “This is a very significant moment for the WTO and a very great opportunity for the African Continent when the Africa Continental Free Trade Area AFCFTA) is taken off. On behalf of the Global Centre for Human Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development, GLOCHEED, I extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her appointment as the WTO’s next Director-General.”

Stating further, Rose charged Okonjo-Iweala to have her priority on working with members to quickly address the economic and health consequences brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nigerian Youth Congress has commended The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari over the appointment of Abdulrasheed Bawa as Boss of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The President, Blessing Akinlosotu in a statement released to journalists immediately after Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President, (Media and Publicity), disclosed the information, thanked Buhari, and said, "it is no doubt that the Buhari-led government is a youth-focused government. President Buhari has proven this repeatedly, and we wouldn't take it for granted".

Prototype to this, President Muhammadu Buhari has asked the Senate to confirm Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa as substantive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

This was convened in a letter to President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, the President said he was acting in accordance with Paragraph 2(3) of Part1, CAP E1 of EFCC Act 2004.

The Nigerian Youth Congress boss, Blessing Akinlosotu, expressed optimism in Abdulrasheed Bawa and assured the President and Nigerians that Bawa wouldn't betray them going by his antecedents.

"Bawa, 40, is a trained EFCC investigator with vast experience in the investigation and prosecution of Advance Fee Fraud cases, official corruption, bank fraud, money laundering, and other Financial Crimes.
He has undergone several specialized trainings in different parts of the world and was one of the pioneer EFCC Cadet Officers in 2005. Bawa holds a B.Sc degree in Economics, and Masters in International Affairs and Diplomacy.

On this premise, we are sure he would deliver in accordance to the ethics of the job", he added.

The World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu has congratulated Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala over her emergence as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The World Grand President and UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu today 17 Feb. 2021 congratulated Igozi on behalf of the International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), following the announcement of the World Trade organization revealing Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's appointment via its official tweeter handle @WTO.org.

According to the tweet, “members made history when the General Council agreed by consensus to select Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria as the organization’s seventh Director-General.”

It is worthy of note that upon resumption on 1 March, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala will become the first woman and the first African to be chosen as Director-General. Her term, renewable, will expire on 31 August 2025.

Bashiru, in his words, “This is a very significant moment for the WTO. On behalf of the International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), I extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her appointment as the WTO’s next Director-General.”

Stating further, (World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ) charged Okonjo-Iweala to have her priority placed on team work to swiftly address the economic and health consequences brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Nigerian Youth Congress, NYC, has congratulated Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala over her emergence as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The NYC President, Blessing Akinlosotu today congratulated her on behalf of the body immediately after the World Trade organization revealed her appointment via its official tweeter handle @WTO.org.

According to the tweet, “members made history today (15 February) when the General Council agreed by consensus to select Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria as the organization’s seventh Director-General.”

It is worthy of note that upon resumption on 1 March, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala will become the first woman and the first African to be chosen as Director-General. Her term, renewable, will expire on 31 August 2025.

Akinlosotu, in his words, “This is a very significant moment for the WTO. On behalf of the Nigerian Youth Congress, I extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her appointment as the WTO’s next Director-General.”

Stating further, Akinlosotu charged Okonjo-Iweala to have her priority on working with members to quickly address the economic and health consequences brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Nigeria Universal Health Coverage Actions Network (NUHCAN) invites the general public to a zoom Seminar on 'COVID-19 VACCINATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT'; as part of the NUHCAN Seminar series towards the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.




Executive Secretary,
NUHCAN, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje made this known to journalists today in Abuja via a statement he signed.

Dr. Uzodinma, in his statement, disclosed that the seminar scheduled for Feb 17, 2021, at 03:00 PM West Central Africa would be chaired by Hon. Prof. Adenike Grange, a former Nigerian Minister for Health, who is the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT), NUHCAN.


He said he (Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje) would be moderating the event.

Continuing on the speakers and assigned topics to speak on, "the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the Community and Strategies for overcoming its impact; by Professor Joseph Ana, member, Board of Trustees, NUHCAN, Facts, Myths and Misinformation about COVID-19 Vaccination; by Prof Oyewale Tomori, Redeemers University Ede Osun State, Options for the Implementation of COVID-19 Vaccination in Under-Resourced Countries; by Mr. Thomas Schwartz, and the Role of CSOs in achieving Community Engagement for effective coverage with COVID-19 vaccination; by Ambassador Hassan Mohammed, Chairman, Governing Council, NUHCAN.

He also disclosed that brief Comments would be coming from NPHCDA Alh. Abubakar Ahmad; member, Board of Trustees, NUHCAN
Alh Ado Abdullahi; member, Governing Council, NUHCAN
Mrs. Lizzy Igbine; member, Governing Council/ Ag. Assistant Secretary, NUHCAN

The Founder of ZUGACOIN, the First indigenous Cryptocurrency in Nigeria, African, Dr
Sam Zuga has Commended the leadership of International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS) led by its World Grand President, UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu on global Awards recognition as "THE MOST NOTABLE ENTREPRENEUR OF THE 21ST CENTURY".

UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu in a media chat via telephone conversation told our correspondent that the leadership of ICWLS has done extensive research on Dr. Sam Zuga and discovered that the CEO of SAMZUGA HOPE ALIVE CENTRE, DUBAI has performed excellently in terms of Community services; Philanthropic services, and other support to humanities.


The award presentation which was done yesterday in Transcorp Hilton Hotels, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria by UNESCO Laureate, took such a wonderful stride as the recipient was overwhelmed for been honoured on the account of his philanthropic activities.

ICWLS whose primary objectives is to honour eminent scholars, notable individuals, public office holders, Professionals, Community Leaders, Traditional Rulers, Green Academia, Professors, Businessmen and Women, Clergymen, Civil Servants, Politicians, and other distinguished Stakeholders globally said the group has taken cognizance of the free solar technology trainings, free medical services, numerous empowerment and other humanitarian Services carried out by Dr. Sam Zuga, the General Overseer of Joy Ministry, Gboko.

In the words of UNESCO Laureate: "Oxford Dictionary defines Learned, as a person, having acquired much knowledge through study. This definition is the reason for us to select Learned People all over the world to be included in this international distinction of Internationally Chartered World Learned Society which is incorporated under the laws of the government and filed at the office of the Secretary of State of Delaware, USA".

"ICWLS Mission is to
Celebrate and encourage excellence in all of the Scholarly Disciplines including the Professions, Industry and Commerce, Arts, Public Service, and so on.
Promote the advancement of learning, Scholarship, dissemination, and appreciation of results of academic inquiry and research".

"The vision statement is to create academic excellence by the well-articulated international academic program that will produce creative and innovative mind thereby helping to set the highest international academic standards in scholarship and research.
To foster the knowledge and capability of its people for the future of advanced society".

Dr. Sam Zuga, whose businesses spreads across cooperatives, chat, and wallet has five Doctorate Degrees from the USA, Israel and other countries of the World has Commended UNESCO, Vice-Chancellor, Crown Univerisity Int'l Chartered Inc., Santa Cruz Province in Argentina partners in the Americas, Ghana, Benin Republic , Togo, India, Nigeria, Liberia and associates worldwide, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu ( World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus) for recognizing on the global awards.

He also thanked other stakeholders whose support has done great to humanities while pledging greater partnership with ICWLS leadership globally upon presentation of the award to him by UNESCO Laureate and appreciated all for the honor done to him by the ICWLS then promised to do more for the Youths, Women, Community, and the entire humanity.

The Nigerian Youth Congress has called on Youths to resist the temptation of protesting in the ill thought and poorly crafted "Occupy Lekki toll gate," a protest slated for 13th February, 2021.

The President, Nigerian Youth Congress, NYC, Blessing Akinlosotu made this known in a statement he signed and made available to journalists today.

According to him, "Youths should realise that dialogue as an approach is often missed in a struggle of whatever nature in Nigeria. Because it is truncated, many battles are lost and issues of great importance are carpeted.

Stating further, "we must realise that protest is always the last approach but often the only approach by Youths in Nigeria".

The NYC advised youths to resist the temptation of the protest and be properly guided on the need to civil obedience and better approaches to change.
"The #EndSARS protest that came with many intrigues and reactions isn't forgotten and as such Nigerians must continue to be safe as the nation still battles the issues surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic.

"No youth should involve in such calumny and continue to be law abiding as the nation recovers from an embattled economy".

Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, the CEO and Global Coordinator, Afrihealth Optonet Association [CSOs Network] – with consultative status at UN ECOSOC, has said that Afrihealth Optonet Association is set to stage a workshop on COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS, come Feb. 12, 2021.


Dr. Adirieje disclosed this to journalists in Abuja, Nigeria, yesterday 8 Feb.2021 in a statement he signed.

He said the theme of the workshop is: "Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on HIV/AIDS Response".

Speaking on the time, he disclosed that it would be on Friday, 2021, at 12:00 PM West Central Africa.






Early, emphasizing on the anchor organization, he said, Afrihealth Optonet Association is a civil society network and think-tank of about 600 (Six Hundred) organizations across Africa, the Caribbean, and global South for Systems Strengthening in Health [including HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria]; Energy, Climate Change and Environment; Nutrition and Food Security; and Gender, Good Governance, Democracy, Human Security, Rights, and Dignity; Human Capital Development; promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"AFRIHEALTH is committed to the propagation of ‘Health’ as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and health systems strengthening, especially in the areas of the SDGs, diseases prevention, provision of care and impact mitigations using partnerships, advocacy, research/evidence-generation, capacity development, outreaches, and monitoring and evaluation as strategies; focusing on rural and poor urban communities, vulnerable and disadvantaged populations; and exploring the interlinkages between Health, Energy and Environment, Nutrition and Food Security, and Gender, Good Governance and Human Rights. AFRIHEALTH promoted the establishment of the Nigeria UHC Advocacy Group (NUHCAG) and is a member of the Health Care Financing and Investments Technical Working Group (TWG) for UHC at the Federal Ministry of Health in Nigeria. It is a member of Women-Major-Groups, NGO-Major-Groups ,and Together-2030. Afrihealth has a Consultative Status at the United Nations ECOSOC, and had successfully implemented the ‘Sustainable Citizens Participation in Nigeria’s Niger Delta’ Project on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) funded by the United Nations Democracy Fund during 2017-2018. It also participated in the ‘Roll-out of the Malaria Matchbox Equity Assessment among Internally Displaced Persons/Women and Refugees in Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states, 2020’, funded by the Global Fund; among others".

Palpable joy erupted yesterday in Kwale as the Ndokwa Representative commenced the distribution of economic livelihood support and the 'rebuild & restore' davasted areas relief materials to victims of flood disaster in Ndokwa Nation under the Ossai Ossai Fighting For Ndokwa people Initiative in collaboration with National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The program witnessed the distribution of the following relief items in large quantities:
1. Roofing Zinc
2. Ceiling Boards
3. Full trailer load of Cement
4. Mattresses/foams
5. Vegetable Oil
6. Tin Tomatoes
7. Maggi
8. Wrappers
9. Cooking Salt
10. Musquito Net
11. Bags of Rice
11. Bags of Beans
12. Bags of Maize
13. Sleeping Blankets
14. 3inches Nail for roofing
15 Zinc Nail

The Ndokwa Representative was pleasantly ambushed by an army of overtly excited constituency women and supporters as he gracefully stepped out to commence the distribution exercise.

Rt. Hon. (Rev) Dr. Ossai Ossai in his brief address thanked the management of NEMA for responding to his special request for the agency's intervention to bring succour to the people despite torrents of competing requests on their desks. The Legislative Maestro further stated that he will keep fighting for the good of Ndokwa Nation with all the legislative instruments and privileges available to him without hesitation.

He said: "Using my office and unique legislative lobbying skills to engage government agencies to attract this kind of interventions and more, that benefit my people is truly what I believe representation is about and I pledge to continue to fight for opportunities for my people. Fighting for the people has always been my major inspiration in public service."

The Legislative Maestro sympathized with victims of the heavy flood devastation that ravaged most communities in Ndokwa Nation especially communities in Ndokwa East LGA. He noted that clans and communities in Ndokwa East has been allocated larger part of the relief items because they were the worst hit. Twenty two clans in Ndokwa East benefited from the 'rebuild' and restore relief materials. The clans include: OSSISSA, OBIKWELE, AFOR, ABALLA, INYI, ONUABOH, UTCHI, OKPAI, ABOH, BENEKU, ASHAKA, AKARAI, UMUOLU, ADIAOBIKA, UTUOKU, ONYIA, ASE, IBEDENI, IGBUKU, IBREDE, ONORGBOKOR, and USHIE as well as affected communities in Ukwuani and Ndokwa West LGAs. All the communities received building materials and other relief support to drive the rebuild and restore devastated homes focus of the program.

He urged the communities, clans and groups to make good use of the items for the benefit of the people. The clans were represented by their PGs or the PGs designated persons who collected the items on behalf of their clan.

Earlier in the program, the team lead of NEMA delegation who were on ground to witness the distribution, described Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai's humanity, humility, perseverance and fighting spirit as incredible. In his words "Hon. Ossai Ossai truly cares for the people and he is a Representative with a difference who does not take no for an answer when it comes to issues that will benefit his people. We have experienced his unrelenting push to attract this relief intervention to his people and we are glad to be here to witness real people and affected communities come forward to collect their relief materials with joy." He assured of the agency’s commitment to continue to partner with the people’s representative to help ameliorate the sufferings of the people.

The program also included distribution of food items and livelihood support to over 500 women to help cushion the ugly impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The women were drawn from across the three LGAs of Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency.

The distribution exercise was graced by highly revered political, religious and communities leaders from across the three LGAs of Ndokwa East, Ukwuani and Ndokwa West.

Indeed, bringing representation home with sustainable results has been the hallmark of the Ndokwa Representative's public service journey.

On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/FGC); Afrihealth Optonet Association has condemned the continuous practice of this harmful act of FGM anywhere in the world, by whosoever, for whatever reason. “FGM is global, but so is the movement to end it”.

The Programs Director/CEO, CS4EGBV Project/Afrihealth Optonet Association [CSOs Network], Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje made this known to journalists yesterday in Abuja via a release. He stated that because female genital mutilation (FGM) or Female Genital Cutting (FGC) is inflicted on and affects women and girls in several continents, Afrihealth Optonet Association declares that there must be a global strategy and international cooperation to end the human rights abuse by 2030.




Eradicating FGM worldwide by 2030 is one of the commitments that all 193 UN member states agreed to when they signed onto the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015.
“Sometimes the scale of the problem can feel overwhelming, but it is important to remember that we are not alone in our fight to end the practice, and that important work is being done around the world”.

Continuing, he disclosed that an estimated 55 million girls under the age of 15 in 28 African countries have experienced or are at risk of experiencing FGM, which remains prevalent in parts of West, East, Central, and Northern Africa.
“This, despite the fact that laws against FGM are most common in the African continent where 28 countries have specific anti-FGM laws or legal provisions.
The move to end FGM in Africa has over the years gained traction on the continent with state and non-state actors at the international, regional, and national levels coalescing around actions designed to address this harmful practice.



“These efforts have seen African governments commit to the global goal of ending FGM by 2030 in addition to launching a continental drive aimed at promoting and accelerating the collective abandonment of FGM at the community level through the development and enforcement of comprehensive anti-FGM laws; increasing and allocating resources to end FGM, and strengthening partnerships geared towards this.

Similarly, women’s rights defenders in Africa have banded together and are playing their part in contributing to the anti-FGM movement by holding states to account and exposing gaps that continue to put women and girls at risk of FGM. While some of them have been working under the auspices of the Solidarity for African Women’s Rights (SOAWR) and galvanizing action at the regional and national levels, others such as Hope Beyond Foundation in Kenya have been leading the campaign at the community level.



According to him, “as recognition of the global prevalence of the practice increases, activists from across the continent are leading the now global movement to end female genital mutilation. In 2020, Burkina Faso submitted a resolution at the UN Human Rights Council on behalf of the group of African States calling on governments globally to take “comprehensive, multisectoral and rights-based measures to prevent and eliminate female genital mutilation”.

“We declare the FGM is avoidable gender-based violence (GBV) that brings ALL PAINS and no gain and must be totally eliminated/stopped the world over.
Say ‘NO’ to GBV. End FGM now”.



“Our ‘Civil Society for Elimination of GBV’ project, seeks to end FGM/FGC by 2030. We call for total commitment by governments, the United Nations system, International and local development partners, civil society organizations, businesses, development partners, civil society organizations, business, faith-based groups, communities, men, women, girls, boys, parents and relations to escalate actions and commitment to end FGM everywhere on the planet”.

UNESCO Laureate, and World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO Top up by UNN, Nigeria, CSER Malaysia, MPRPH Institute Iran, WCU, USA ,ICERE Argentina and others worldwide , Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu has said that Iwo Land in Osun State Nigeria remains the only place tracing the history of Islamic Religion in the entire Yoruba, South West Nigeria that Mosque was first cited as far back as 1665, which he said Fortress University of ACADIP has fulfilled is a great historical antecedents on the Advent of Islam upon its establishment.



Professor Aremu in a media chat today with our reporter in a telephone conversation stated this while applauding the achievements of the present Monarch of Iwo Land in Osun State for taking after his fore fathers (grand and great grand fathers) on his love for Education and development of Ancient Iwo Kingdom.



He Stated that the Iwo Monarch's great great grand fathers who reigned between 1600 Circa and 1744 AD, that is 338 years ago starting from Oba Adeoye Adekanbi Ibirinade (Oba Alawusa), meaning the King that accepted and supported Hausa in his Kingdom with his permission accommodated Agbowu, son of Aara the Founder of Ogbaagba village that later became Ogbaagba Town under Iwo Land was a place cattle traders from Northern parts of the country, first group of Muslims settled thence penetrated other parts of the country.



The UNESCO Laureate, Speaking further on the imperatives, roles played by Iwo Land, said the most importantly, the then Monarch, Oba Ogunmakinde, Monarch's brother, Oluji and the voice of Oracle, other powerful Oracles that predicted the Advent of Islamic Scholars that led to Oba Muhammad Anyila, the longest reigning Monarch in Iwo Land with a longevity of 140 years ascended the throne of his fore-fathers as an Islamic Scholar in 1816 with the support of some powerful idol worshippers then who were members of his cabinet before gaining full control of his Islamic Religion after their demise.

"The only one that we can call first Mosque in Yoruba land now is the one that was built in 1655 at Iwo City.

The Advent of Islam in Iwoland, 1655 to this present time (2021)



"The advent of Islam in Iwoland could be traced to the era of Oba Adeoye Adekanbi Ibirinade popularly known as Oba Alawusa (that is the king who accepted and supported Hausa in his domain, because idols worshiping was rampant in the town during his tenure that time) who reigned between 1600 circa and 1744 AD, a period of about over 338 years now with the assistance of Agbowu son of Aara, the founder of Ogbaagba village which became small town under the authority of Oluwo of Iwo, who accommodated the cattle traders from the Northerm part of Nigeria where the first group of Muslims penetrated into this part of the country with His Imperial Majesty Oba Oluwo Adeoye Ibirinade Adekanmbi's permission by then



"When the only what we can called the first Mosque in Yoruba land now was built in 1655 in Mogaji compound, Iwo City , Osun State, Nigeria according to Encyclopedia



"In 1744, Oba Ogunmakinde Ande Nidi Ibon (a man brass coated gun based) son of Oba Adeoye Adekanmbi Ibirinade (Alawusa) succeeded his father on the seat of Oluwo and reigned for hundred and twenty-five years in Iwoland.



"However, during his reign there was an outbreak of epidemic diseases (Ajakale Arun) which claimed lives of many of Oba Ogunmakinde princes. Oba Ogunmakinde felt very much concerned about who was going to be his crown prince after his demise and he consulted oracle according to their beliefs by then and oracle said according to popular oracle verse in Yoruba otua meji”: which mean oracle that related to the Muslim or oracle verse of Muslin as stated below:





"Voice of Oracle of Peace (Islam) which means “Otua meji” in Yoruba Language of Ifa the Oracle as stated below according to astrologer then :





. Katambari ( Greatest Oracle )

. Akitanbariya ( Greatest Overcome Oracle)

. O fo-Arangali ( raise to became future leader )

. Arangali ( optimistic to become future leader )

. Lekeleke Alalufa ( Set of Greatest Islamic Scholars with white garment )

. O we owo gini-gini ( whose is totally clean his handles with ablution )

. O we ese gini-gini ( whose is totally clean his legs with ablution )

. O wo le kabirawo...... (Whose is totally prostrate to God Almighty)







The Laureate, further elucidated that the Oracle predicted that Oba would have a child but the child was going to practice Islam religion that very common among Hausa tribe apart from the usual. He would be prosper through that new Religion ( Islam) Oluwo had a half-brother whose name was Oluaji who was a trader of Dilali, a great hunter and big farmer.



Continuing, During his sojourn to Ikoyi, a nearby town to Ogbomoso, he came in contact with three wonderful Islamic scholars who were observing one of the daily prayers. He quickly remembered the voice of Oracle and told them the problem of his brother, Oba Ogunmakinde. Oluaji reported his encounter with the Islamic scholars to his brother and Oba Ogunmakinde gave ordered to send a prayers request for a child to these scholars. On the instructions of His Imperial Majesty The Oluwo Ande, Oluaji invited these scholars to Iwo city.



Oluwo Ande ordered that these scholars be accommodated at Iya Oba Compound (Today known as Mogaji's compound). And the prayers were organized for Oba. When Olori delivered a baby boy, the Shaik Usman who led some scholars told Oluwo that the name of the child would be 'Muhammad' which popular called Momodu and ceremony also would be on seventh day not sixth day as was common among all Yoruba people that time (Efa lomo).



In nutshell, Lamuye was added to his name when he grew up and did not die, called 'Allah-Muye' in Yoruba language which we are call Lamuye today, in Hausa 'Allah Nae Rayani'.in English language, Allah made him survive' . Muhammad (Momodu) Ayinla Lamuye learned the Qur'an and Hadith before he ascended the throne under tutelage of the Islamic scholars in the town.



"Another Interesting thing is the First Quran that was written after Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) brought to Iwo City by Muslim Scholars at that particular ancient time which is very rare in the whole world which was transferred to National Museum in Abuja now.







"1816, Oba Muhammad Ayinla Lamuye became a well Islamic scholars before ascended the throne. Therefore, in the position to influence his family, Albeit privately, because the kingmakers were idols worshippers and must not see him processing his religion or else he would be dethroned.



"Since it was forbidden for an Oba to observe solat in public in Yorubaland then, he observed his prayers secretly whenever the chiefs were not in the palace. He was doing this possibly with some of his wives (Olori) . Whenever, he was time for prayers, he would put his mouth inside a gourd to make the call for the prayers.



"He did this constantly until all the powerful men (Chiefs) died. Later, he was able to pray openly when all those powerful enough to challenge him had died and many of the chiefs left had joined him in worshipping God Almighty Allah. Oba Muhammad Lamuye reigned for one hundred and forty years (140yrs). Due to this longevity of his existence on earth and his long period of reign, he was nicknamed in Yoruba language as 'Oba Awaye makun '. Which mean in English that King that came to this world and he did not die



"The royal support was given to Islam



"Oluwo Muhammad Lamuye did a lot of unforgettable things for the development of Islam in Iwoland. Iwo is one of the major towns in Nigeria where Islam is predominantly practised. It is usually referred to as 'Garri-Mallam' (the city of Islamic scholars). Mentioned few out of his contribution to uplift the religion of Islam.



"He encouraged many people in the town to join the fold of Islam by honouring those who accepted Islam with his own daughters as wives and such a person became members of the royal families.



"He destroyed a great idol in Iwoland (Iya Popo) along with over three hundred and sixty idols at the present site of Iwo central mosque and ordered that a mosque be built there.



"Many chiefs took Muslim name and partook in Islamic ceremonies and festivals in order to getting benefits and privileged of chieftaincy titles.



"During his reign, Hausa, Tappa and Fulani had a great privilege to propagate Islam openly and we're able to invite Others.



"The impact of Islam as seen clearly in all aspects of the cultural, social and spiritual life of the people today in Iwo since 1816 up to date.



"In 1909, The 1st registered Islamic Judge,.



"Muhammad Awal at Mojiro compound, Isale Oba was appointed as the first registered Islamic Judge in Iwoland around 1916 during the reign of Oba Muhammad Sanni Alabi Abimbola Lamuye who requested from the one of English officer called 'Mr. Green' who arrived in Iwo to appoint an Islamic Judge.



"For the competence of Muhammad Awal in his judgement his compound's name was changed to 'Alikali' till today.



"Another Interest things are the most popular among the poets are: Shaykh Ahmad Amin, Shaykh Muhalliy Aroworeki, Shaykh Muhally Badrudeen, Shaykh Abdul Baqi Muhammad etc. Their poetry works were rendered eloquently so much so that its rendition is made possible for their students to understand their message because it serves as a way of imparting knowledge.







"The people are predominantly Yorubas with few Fulani nomads. Iwo indigenes engage in various occupations like cattle rearing, butchery, farming, trading, craft, teaching to mention just a few.

Iwo is truly a Muslim town due largely to its adoption of Islam as a religion. It therefore has many Quranic schools as well as Madāris and Marākiz.3

Their Religion

Islam in Iwo is as old as the ancient town itself. The town is always referred to as the town of Islamic scholars. It has many Muslim Scholars and students in its domain.





"History will repeat itself" on March 31st, 2018, Oba (Dr) Abdul-Rasheed Adewale Akanbi, Alashe lori Orisha,Arole Eledumare (The Commander in chief over deities and Representative of God on the surface of Earth) , The incarnation of Telu Adekola The Founder of Iwo Empire popularly knowns as Telu the 1st who always shed more light on status of Islam in Iwoland and especially in Yorubaland and makes elucidate that undoubtedly belief in God Almighty Allah is what we're requested to do by Him and unwelcomed peganism beliefs.



"He also appointed a well-educated and accommodating scholar, Fadheelat Shaik Yaqoob Abdul-Baq Muhammad to be in office of Al-Wazir of Yoruba land with a view to catering for all Muslims.































"Iwo is a city that has suffered before. Iwo City has lacked many social amenities. Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi Telu1 is a king that is trying to make Iwo great.







"Oluwo of Iwo Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi The First Incarnation of Telu Adekola the Founder of Iwo Empire popular known as Telu1 is a King that his people like to be addressed as Emir of Yoruba Land Oba ( King) Dr Sheikh (Igwe ) Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi Telu1 is loved by many people..







"Oluwo Of Iwo Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi Telu1 played a significant role before federal government of Nigeria approved Federal College of Education to be cited in Iwo.



Higher Institutions in Iwo land before Fortress University are : BOWEN University. Wolex Polytechni c, Baptist Teachers' Training College which was located at Oke Odo in Iwo, but this facility is now used as the campus of Bowen University, Westland University, Iwo city polytechnic,

Royal College of Public health and technology, Empire College of Health Technology, Al Ummah College of Education, Federal College of Educatio, Offer, center institute of Agriculture.

Another institution in Iwo is Shariah College of Nigeria, which used to be in Ibadan before it was relocated to its permanent site at Oke-Afo, Iwo







"ACADIP Chief Lecturer, Alhaji Yusuf Adepoju visited Iwo as the lecturer has agreed that their Fortress University will be sited in Iwo land .







"It was very sweet Friday for Iwo people that day when they were celebrated triple things at same time celebrations of Christmas, Jummat Mubarak for happy Fridays and the sealing of deal of the new Fortress University by ACADIP with Professor Lai Olurode, Sheikh Yusuf Adepoju and the Paramount Ruler of Iwoland Alase Lori Orisa 1 His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr Sheikh ( Igwe) abdulrasheed adewale Akanbi The First Incarnation of Telu Adekola The Founder of Iwo Empire popular known as Telu1











"I, Congratulate!!! My Imperial Majesty, Uncommon and Dynamic King with Trade Mark.

First and Only One Commander in Chief over deties in Yoruba Land and Representative of God Almighty on surface of the Earth (Alaase Lori orisa ni ile Yoruba ati Arole Olodumaare lorile Aye), (The Supreme and Permanent Chairman of Iwo Land Traditional Council of over thirty Obas and chiefs ),



His Imperial Majesty Oba, Dr, Shiekh, King, ( Igwe) Abdul Rasheed Adewale Akanbi, The First Incarnation of Telu Adekola the Initiator of Iwo Land, Gbaase 2nd, Natural Emir of Yoruba Land,

The Oluwo of Iwo Empire on the new development of proposed Fortress University that was established by ACADIP under leadership of Mallam Yusuf Adepoju , I also congratulate the following people



"Sheikh Yaqob Baaki Muhammad, Wazeer of Yoruba Land, Alaaga Isokan Musulimi of Iwo and entire people of Iwo Land both home and abroad", he educatively disclosed.





Yours sincerely, UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu

Vice Chancellor, Crown University International and World Acclaimed

Distinguished Professor Emeritus ratified by UNESCO Top up by UNN, Nigeria, CSER Malaysia, MPRPH Institute Iran, WCU, USA , ICERE Argentina and others worldwide,

Chairman, Board of Trustees, Chartered Intl Da Vinci University, Chairman Board of Trustees, Peacebuilding and Human Development, Registrar, Chartered Institute of Educational Practitioners, London, United Kingdom, The World Grand President (World Grand Board of Directors), International Chartered World Learned Society.

And Vice President for International Affairs (Vice Chairman International Affairs of Board of Trustees) at West Coast University USA and associates worldwide ; Vice President International Affairs (Vice Chairman International Affairs of Board of Trustees) Sastra Angkor University Kingdom of Cambodia; World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus and Member Board of Trustees Bharat University in India, Deputy Director General for Africa and Research Professor at International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, UK.

World Grand Chancellor at the Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace ; Visiting Founding Head of Information and Communication Technology, Abia State University Uturu, Nigeria, Visiting Professor at Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma, Nigeria.

Also World Grand President at Africa International Institute for Professional Training and Research, Vice President, International Centre for Eye Research and Education, Argentina, South America ,World Acclaimed Distinguished Research Professor and Fellow Editorial International Advisory Board at Cambridge Scholars Publishing, United Kingdom, Founder of Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu Intl. Foundation Inc. and several others higher institutions and organizations world-wide.



Official website: http://profaremubashiru.org