₦airaland Forum

Nah Honda or wetin...why need to repair legs?? Take your time o 😉 ☺️

SlavaUkraini:
After disgracing his supporters abroad...

He better head back to France where they normally repair his legs because it is obvious that those legs are faulty.

Another lobbying package. Westerners just dey chop FG money...person wey dey lie lie knows, person wey dem dey lie for knows too.

thesolutions:
Just draw green land and jump into it. No faster way.

Just jump into the drawing. Wow...Tekinologia!

On a more serious note, most Nigerians will jump at the $100k offer the U.S proposed for individual Greenlander.

Which peace...? or begining of craze and depression.

2special:
if she will find Peace by bringing it online....No Wahala

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week after traders failed to open for business in defiance of the state’s directive against the Monday sit-at-home.

The order was issued on Monday during an on-site visit by the governor, who was accompanied by senior government officials and security chiefs. Security agencies immediately sealed the market to enforce the shutdown.

Soludo warned that the closure could be extended to one month if traders do not comply when the market is due to reopen next week.

He said repeated assurances on security and calls to resume normal economic activity had been ignored, describing the empty market as evidence of fear-driven non-compliance.

“The government cannot stand by while a few individuals undermine public safety and defy lawful directives meant to restore normal life,” Soludo said. “This is economic sabotage. The closure is a protective measure for law-abiding citizens.”

He added that traders must decide whether to operate within the state’s framework or relocate elsewhere.

A joint task force made up of police, soldiers and other security agencies was deployed around the market, with access gates locked throughout the day.

The closure marks a sharp escalation in the state government’s efforts to end the long-running Monday sit-at-home, which officials say has hurt commerce across the South-East.

The government had earlier directed businesses to open on Mondays and warned of sanctions for defiance. It also announced that, from February 2026, civil servants’ salaries would be paid based on attendance on Mondays.

Attention now turns to next week, when the market is expected to reopen. Whether traders return to their stalls may shape the future of Monday economic activity in Anambra State.

https://www.fellowpress.com/soludo-shuts-onitsha-main-market-over-monday-sit-at-home/

Former UK foreign secretary and chancellor Jeremy Hunt has said Donald Trump treats European leaders with contempt because he views them as weak, arguing that only stronger defence capabilities will change that perception.

Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Hunt said the US president’s approach to Europe reflects a belief that the continent cannot adequately defend itself. He warned that without a serious investment in defence, European leaders would continue to be sidelined.

“The reason that Trump treats European leaders like this is because he thinks they’re weak,” Hunt said. “If we want that to stop happening, there’s only one thing we need to do, which is to build up our own defences.”

Hunt said respect in international politics often follows strength, not diplomacy alone. He argued that Trump is unlikely to take seriously leaders or countries that lack credible military power.

He pointed to what he described as a stark contrast in Trump’s behaviour towards global figures such as Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, compared with his treatment of European leaders.

“That is the thing that really sticks in many people’s throats,” Hunt said. “The contrast in the way Donald Trump treats Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, and actually Netanyahu in Israel, with respect.”

When asked whether Trump’s approach was influenced by the perception of these leaders as “strong men”, Hunt agreed, saying Europe suffers because it does not project the same level of strength.

“He treats European leaders with contempt,” Hunt added. “And that is because we are weak.”

Hunt’s comments come amid renewed debate across Europe about defence spending and security cooperation, especially as uncertainty grows over future US foreign policy and NATO commitments.

https://www.fellowpress.com/jeremy-hunt-europe-seen-as-weak-by-trump/

The Central Bank of Nigeria has announced plans to introduce a new regulatory framework to ease debit card issuance and improve Automated Teller Machine operations across the banking sector.

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso disclosed this through his Special Adviser, Fatai Karim, at an event over the weekend. He said the move aims to address persistent cash access problems and rebuild public trust in electronic payment systems.

Under the proposed policy, banks will be required to align the number of debit cards they issue with the size of their ATM infrastructure. The apex bank believes this will reduce congestion at cash points, limit frequent ATM downtime and improve cash availability nationwide.

Karim said recurring ATM failures and cash shortages continue to weaken confidence in digital payment channels, even as electronic transactions grow rapidly within the banking system.

“Very soon, the Central Bank will be coming up with another policy to sanitise and improve the situation, particularly around how many cards banks issue relative to the number of ATMs they support,” he said.

The CBN has faced criticism from customers and businesses over unreliable ATM services, long queues and failed transactions. Analysts say the new framework could force banks to invest more in ATM deployment or review their card issuance strategies.

The central bank said the planned reforms form part of broader efforts to strengthen payment infrastructure and improve customer experience in Nigeria’s financial system.

https://www.fellowpress.com/cbn-plans-new-rules-on-debit-cards-atms/

US doing the right thing the wrong way. Message rightly decoded: Trump is saying US can do and undo without being checked

Kwara case is escalating too. Even towns like Ijagbo, Omu Aran are not left out. Who will save us now?

Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has welcomed the decision of the Federal High Court in Abuja granting bail in a case currently before the court.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Malami said he remains committed to the rule of law and respect for judicial authority following the ruling delivered on 7 January.

“The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has today granted bail in the matter currently before the court,” the statement said.

Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, stressed that he has consistently demonstrated respect for due process and will continue to comply with all conditions attached to the bail as directed by the court.

“He will continue to comply strictly with all lawful directives and conditions as determined by the court,” the statement added.

The former justice minister also appealed for calm, urging members of the public to exercise patience as further details about the case emerge.

“We urge members of the public to remain calm and patient, as more comprehensive details regarding this development will be communicated shortly,” the statement said.

Malami is facing legal proceedings before the Federal High Court, though details of the charges and bail terms were not disclosed in the statement. However,  The Fellow Press reported that he was granted N500million bail each for him, wife and son.

The court’s decision marks a key development in the case, with further hearings expected in the coming weeks.

https://www.fellowpress.com/malami-welcomes-bail-ruling-vows-full-compliance/

Nawa o. Maybe Tinubu should just be declared winner again without conducting election. That's also democracy, with a touch of saving cost. Lol

Most of them decamped to APC for fear of losing elections. We don't pray for single party in Nigeria

Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has argued that dialogue with bandits remains a viable way to end insecurity, insisting that negotiations have worked in the past.

In a post on his Facebook page, Gumi said talks should not be abandoned, citing the amnesty programme that ended militancy in the Niger Delta.

He said Nigeria’s reliance on military action had failed to resolve long-running conflicts, pointing to the continued fight against Boko Haram and bandit groups.

Gumi said the country had spent 16 years battling Boko Haram and 11 years confronting banditry, with no clear end in sight.

“They say negotiations do not work. That is not true,” he wrote. “It worked with militants in the Niger Delta creeks. It is war that does not work.”

He argued that repeating the same approach while expecting different results was flawed, adding that violence often feeds on mutual hatred and demonisation.

According to him, cycles of conflict persist when both sides respond to hostility with force.

Gumi said breaking the cycle would require a shift towards negotiation and compromise. He added that conflict resolution should be grounded in intellectual engagement, faith-based principles and moral rejection of violence.

https://www.fellowpress.com/gumi-says-negotiation-not-war-can-end-banditry/

The Minister for Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has been commended for her various initiatives that are strategic to the actualization of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

Also, the Minister was unanimously appreciated for fostering peace, unity, growth and development among the women-folk across the nation since her assumption of office and upholding the principles of humanity, excellent performances and inclusiveness in her Ministry.

The Social Integrity Network (SINET), a Non-governmental Organization with strong bias for equity, social justice and economic development of the nation stated this at the end of a meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja.

Speaking with journalists at the end of the meeting, SINET National Coordinator, Dalhatu Issah, said: “Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim has not only proved herself to be hardworking but she has also demonstrated high level of commitment and dedication to the success of the Tinubu-led administration in all ramifications.

He noted that, “As a minister, Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s achievements have further confirmed her intelligence and experience as a gender advocate and patriotic Nigerian with a large and selfless heart of service delivery to humanity.

“Since her assumption of office in October 2024, the Ministry has witnessed tremendous positive innovations. The renewed mandate is intentionally structured to deliver transformative results across national development dimensions.

“She hosted a high-level consultative meeting with former Honourable Ministers of Women Affairs to consolidate institutional wisdom and unify strategic direction. Led Nigeria’s delegation to the 69th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), from 9th - 21st March, 2025. This reaffirmed Nigeria’s leadership role through high-level engagements, bilateral meetings, and side events among sterling achievements.

“Convened the Maiden Town Hall and Citizens’ Engagement on May 29, 2025, with close to 1,000 women from all walks of life to reaffirm national support for the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Convened a Citizens Engagement event to commemorate the Honourable Minister’s First 100 Days in Office , featuring the distribution of palliatives and solar systems to women’s groups, reinforcing the Ministry’s rapid response to economic hardship and energy access for vulnerable populations.”

Speaking on Women’s empowerment and livelihood support, the SINET boss said the Ministry under her watch has made significant strides in expanding economic opportunities for women through coordinated empowerment programmes.

According to him, “These initiatives are tailored to enhance self-reliance, reduce poverty, and support women’s full participation in local economies; particularly in rural and underserved communities.

“Reached over 30,000 women with palliatives and livelihood support across 18 states and the FCT under the Renewed Hope Food intervention of the Ministry and established a Rice Processing Centre in Niger State through the Nigeria for Women Project, benefiting over 1,500 rural women in agro-enterprise development;

“Her Ministry collaborated with the Department of State Services (DSS) to train widows of fallen personnel in vocational and agro-processing skills in the North-Central zone and also partnered with Wema Bank Plc. to empower over 500 women under the MOWA–SARA Programme, providing training in tailoring, catering, and hairdressing.

“Among all, she supported the Super Falcons in their matches which eventually earned them victory at the 13th edution of the African Women Cup of Nations recently hosted in Morocco.”

The group however thanked His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a Minister with human face and genuine interest of the nation at heart stressing that, “It is on this note that we the entire members of The Social Integrity Network in our numbers pass a Vote Of Confidence on Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim for her excellent performances so far.

“We therefore appeal to stakeholders in the Nigeria Project to be forward-looking and join Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim in her strides to consolidate and sustain the good work that she has being discharging to the nation”, he said.

https://www.fellowpress.com/group-endorses-tinubus-minister-imaan-sulaiman-ibrahim/

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. O.O Nafiu, has called on corps members across the country to uphold the values of respect, sacrifice, and service as they integrate into their host communities.

In his Eid-el-Fitr message, the NYSC boss congratulated corps members and staff on the successful completion of Ramadan, commending their resilience and dedication.


Nafiu urged them to extend the lessons of the holy month by fostering unity and contributing positively to their places of primary assignment.

“I encourage our community of corps members to continue to be good guests to our hosts while at the same time promoting peace and contributing to national development,” he said.


The DG’s message underscores the NYSC’s commitment to strengthening national unity by ensuring that corps members respect and contribute meaningfully to the communities where they serve.

https://www.fellowpress.com/eid-el-fitr-be-good-guests-to-your-host-communities-nysc-dg-to-corpers/

...State Counsel: All suspects have a case to answer, trial to proceed at High Court
...Bello details chilling account of crime, blames ‘spirit’ for his actions

During a brief 26-minute court session, Abdulrahman Bello, the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of Hafsah Lawal, made a shocking confession, taking full responsibility for the crime and pleading for the release of his co-accused.

Appearing before Magistrate S.B. Mohammed, Bello had no legal representation, unlike the other suspects who were defended in court. Chief State Counsel Issa Zakari, representing the prosecution, informed the court that legal advice from the Attorney General had confirmed all the suspects had a case to answer. He, therefore, requested the case be transferred to the State High Court for proper prosecution.


In a surprising turn of events, Bello raised his hand and requested permission to speak. Upon being granted the floor, he declared, “The other suspects know nothing about the crime. I committed it alone, and I appeal to this court to release them.”

When asked to explain what transpired on the day of the incident, Bello recounted that the victim, Hafsah Lawal, visited his house feeling hungry. He said they shared a meal before becoming intimate. He then made a startling claim, stating, “Because God destined that she would die that day, she passed away during the act.”


Bello admitted that, instead of seeking help, he panicked and dismembered her body. “That was my only mistake,” he said. “I disposed of the body parts in a public dustbin, but the police have recovered some of them. Her hands were still in my house because I was too afraid to dispose of them.”

When asked if he had committed similar crimes before, he insisted this was his first time. “It was a spirit that entered me,” he said. “The moment it left, I realized the gravity of my actions.”

Magistrate Mohammed, in her ruling, affirmed that the legal process for transferring the case had been completed. She advised Bello that he could make his plea for his co-accused at the High Court, which holds the jurisdiction to determine their involvement. The case was adjourned to Thursday, March 20, 2025, for further hearing.

https://www.fellowpress.com/murder-suspect-abdulraman-admits-guilt-makes-request/

The Nigerian government has set a target to fully transition its examination system to computer-based testing (CBT) by 2027, as part of its commitment to improving the quality and integrity of national assessments.

This was revealed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the inauguration of the Committee on the Improvement of Quality Examinations in Nigeria in Abuja on Thursday.

Dr. Alausa highlighted the committee's responsibility to address key challenges in the education sector, with a particular focus on standardizing examination practices, ensuring fairness, and eliminating widespread malpractice. He emphasized that tackling examination leakages requires a holistic approach, noting that students are not the only culprits in the rise of exam-related fraud.

The Minister pointed out that parents, teachers, school principals, and even those overseeing the examinations have contributed to the prevalence of examination malpractices. He stressed that everyone involved in the examination process must be held accountable in order to curb the issue.

“One of our major goals is to have all exams computer-based by 2027,” Dr. Alausa said. “We will work tirelessly to make this a reality, leveraging technology to address the challenges we face.”

The minister also acknowledged the issue of local swapping of candidates during examinations, a practice that the committee will work to eliminate. He stated that addressing examination fraud requires comprehensive efforts from all stakeholders, from students to exam regulators.

Additionally, Dr. Alausa outlined the committee’s broader objectives, including eliminating exam leakages, reducing identity theft during exams, and improving supervision. He also emphasized the government's dedication to funding education, with a strong focus on human capital development under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

As part of the reform, the Minister announced that new examination certificates will feature three key identifiers: candidates' national identification numbers, their photos, and their birthdates. This move is aimed at ensuring the authenticity of exam results and preventing identity theft.

“This new system will make it almost impossible to falsify candidates' identities,” Alausa said. “We must ensure that diligent students are not overshadowed by those who undermine the integrity of the examination system.”

In response, the Chairman of the newly formed committee, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, who is also the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), expressed gratitude to the government for entrusting him and the other members of the committee with the task. He assured the Minister that the committee would work efficiently and promptly to achieve the set goals.

By 2027, the Nigerian government hopes to have a fully digitized and transparent examination system, promoting fairness, quality, and security across the nation’s educational landscape.

https://www.fellowpress.com/nigeria-aims-for-100-cbt-by-2027/

As part of efforts towards combating economic sabotage in the country, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested a truck fully loaded with vandalised rail slippers in Kwara State.

The truck with plate number KTU 279 XR (Lagos), was arrested at Oko-Olowo area along Ilorin/Jebba Express way

Documents attached to the items shows that the items are to be delivered at KAM IND NIG LTD,, Ilorin, Kwara State. The driver has confessed where the consignments are going with documents as evidence.

It would be recalled that the Federal Government through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has declared vandalisation of government infrastructure as a criminal offence against the nation.


Source: https://forensicextra..com/2024/10/kam-industrys-truck-arrested-with.html?m=1

Aside your budget, there are certain specification you might need to consider when acquiring a new laptop. In order words, your laptop need to match your needs and job you want it for.

But sincerely, buying a laptop can be tricky as you can find it as an exercise confusing, because you might even know everything about what you want and how to get it, but finding it can be difficult. Heck, just navigating the manufacturers' websites or physical shopping to locate the model you want is frustrating.

We hope this guide will help you navigate the morass of modern laptops.

Let's patiently consider below a section on every major component you'll want to know about when you browse for a PC.

1. First, Make Choice of Your Operating System

The first step in looking for laptops is to figure out the Operating System (OS) that will work for you. Thinking through what software you need to run and which operating systems it runs on will help you determine the hardware you need. There are four major computer operating systems. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's an overview of each:

Windows: This stalwart OS doesn't get much press anymore, but it gets the job done. It's the best choice if you need Microsoft apps like MS Office, Access, or Outlook. There are also more Windows laptops to choose from than any other OS. Read our Best Laptops, Best Microsoft Surface Laptops, and Best Cheap Laptops guides to see some of the choices out there.

macOS: Apple's macOS is a bit more beginner-friendly than Windows, but it's tightly coupled with the company's hardware. Your buying options are limited to MacBooks. Since Apple uses its own chips and Macbooks are really a different beast altogether.

Chrome OS: If you can do most of your laptop tasks in a web browser, Chrome OS is a good choice. Chrome laptops (called Chromebooks) are also among the cheapest (and least powerful) you'll find, so the OS is also worth considering if you're on a tight budget. Google recently rolled out a big upgrade called Chromebook Plus. The “Plus” stands for better performance—faster processors, more memory, more storage, and better video cameras.

Linux: If you don't need MS Office and don't mind a learning curve, you can install Linux on just about any piece of laptop hardware ever created. The catch is that popular apps like MS Office and Adobe's Creative Suite don't support Linux. However, there are free, open source alternatives like LibreOffice, Darktable (Adobe Lightroom replacement), and GIMP (Adobe Photoshop replacement).

2. Understanding Processor Names (CPUs)

Next after picking operating system, you want and have some idea of the software you're going to run, you can figure out the minimum hardware specifications you'll need. The first thing we suggest looking at is the processor, also referred to as the chip or the CPU. There are, for all intents and purposes, two companies that make consumer laptop processors: Intel and AMD.

Intel Processors

Intel's main processors are the Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9. The Core i3 is the least powerful, and the Core i9 the most. We usually drop the "Core" from the name because it gets repetitive.

AMD Processors

AMD's chip naming is just as difficult to decipher as Intel's. In the name AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, the “7” is the generation (how old it is; higher is better), and the “6” is how powerful it is. A “6” would make this example a medium-powered chip, whereas a 3 or 4 would be weaker (slower). The next two numbers don't have much impact on anything. The “X” at the end indicates high performance. Other letter designations include U for ultra-low power (for better battery life).

3. How Much Processing Power Do You Need?

For a typical user who runs a web browser, Microsoft's Office Suite, and perhaps even some photo editing software, I recommend a laptop with an Intel Core i5 10th-generation or later processor. That would be displayed something like “Intel Core i5-10350U.”

If you can afford it, an Intel i7 chip makes a nice upgrade and will make your laptop feel snappier. The extra power often means shorter battery life though, so you'll need to balance that with your needs. A gaming laptop, for instance, would use an i7 (or i9) chip, but an i5 is usually fine for less demanding tasks. Likewise, for the average user, the AMD Ryzen 5000 series will suffice, but the Ryzen 7000 makes a nice upgrade—again at the cost of battery life.

4. Consider the Power option

If you compile software, edit videos, or work with very large databases, you're going to want more processing power than the rest of us. I suggest an Intel i7 or Ryzen 7. You'll also want to load up on RAM.

5. What About a Graphics Card?

All laptops technically have graphics cards (also called “discrete” graphics and GPU), but most are bundled into the motherboard with the processor. This approach, known as “integrated graphics,” is fine for most users. You’ll be able to watch HD movies and even play casual games without issue. If you're a gamer or do a lot of video editing, you'll want a laptop with a discrete graphics card—a separate and much more powerful graphics card. AMD and Nvidia make most of the graphics cards you'll find on laptops.

6. Make a choice of RAM

The more the RAM the merrier! Random-access memory, known as RAM, is what your laptop uses to hold data while the processor does things with it. Think of RAM as your desk. All the things you're working on right now should be able to fit on your desk. If your desk is too small, things fall off and you can't work on them. In the same way, if you run out of RAM, you won't be able to open any more browser tabs or finish compiling your video. Eventually, your laptop will freeze up and need to be restarted.

Eight gigabytes of RAM should be plenty for the average Windows user, though upgrading to 16 GB will make your laptop much more capable (and is a necessity for gaming). One thing to investigate before you buy is whether the RAM is soldered to the motherboard. If it is, you won't be able to upgrade the RAM yourself. Again, if you're programming and compiling software or editing video clips, two tasks that require a lot of RAM, you'll want 16 GB at minimum, and you'll probably be happier with 32 GB if you can afford it.

7. Get To Know How Much STORAGE You Need?

The hard drive is where you'll store all your data. Think of this as the filing cabinet next to your desk. The most common choice these days is a solid-state drive (SSD), although some budget laptops still use spinning drives. We suggest avoiding those.

Go for an SSD if you can afford it, with at least 256 GB. SSDs are faster, especially if they use an NVMe connection, which moves data in and out of the hard drive much quicker than the older standard, known as SATA.

You may have noticed that your hard drive doesn't seem to ever have its advertised space. If a hard drive is labeled 512 GB, it may show as having only 490 GB available in Windows. You aren't losing space; this just has to do with the difference between binary and decimal byte size calculations.

8. Check for Ports!

While the CPU, RAM, and hard drive will have the biggest impact on performance, the amount and types of ports on your laptop are important. Ports are the various ways of plugging things into your laptop, like USB devices or charging cables. You will want at least one 1 USB-C, at least one 1 USB-A, and a microphone/headset jack. Make sure your laptop has an SD or microSD card reader if you're a photographer and need to constantly download images from your camera. Otherwise, you'll need to carry a dongle.

https://www.cloudcybersecurity.co.uk/2024/03/8-things-to-consider-when-buying-laptop.html

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If there is anything that can assist President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver on his campaign promises to over 250million Nigerians within a very short time, it is professionalism, competence and patriotism.

Where these three recipes are missing, the current administration may find it extremely difficult to meet up with the aspirations and yearnings of the people for a Renewed Hope.

It is high time the federal government go beyond party lines in the selection of heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in order to allow holistic transformation and efficient management of government resources to the benefit of the downtrodden to happen.

There is no doubt that the campaign for the inclusion of women in governance is still very much alive and among the few women that can drive the vision of the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is Toun Okewale Sonaiya, a woman of valour, exceptionally brilliant, enterprising and full of innovations.

She is a major and consistent player not only in the media industry as a broadcaster and content creator, Toun is also a Human Right Advocate especially on Gender Equality. Indeed, her credentials are not only intimidating but also full of productivity and accomplishments.

A brief look at her profile will further inform Nigerians and the current administration on the appropriate tasks and responsibilities that await her in the quest for quality leadership, good governance and delivering the dividends of democracy to the Nigerian citizens.

BRIEF PROFILE

The Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Women Radio WFM 91.7 – Nigeria’s only Radio station for Women and their families and Africa’s 1st commercial radio station for Women and their families is a communicator and practising media expert with over 3 decades of active broadcast years in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Recognised as one of Nigeria’s 20 most powerful women in journalism. A 1990 Bachelor of Arts graduate, Toun’s core expertise is in Media Management, Training, Policy formulation & Strategic Planning. An advocate for more women in leadership positions, activist against Gender Based Violence and promoter of Girl education, Toun passionately engages men and boys on the importance of gender balance and equity. Toun moderated over 60 programmes on women, girls and crisis during COVID-19 lockdown.

Toun engages passionately in the wellbeing, development and advancement of the female gender spearheading several projects, programmes, workshops and training including supporting and working with Women in IDP Camps in Nigeria. Toun is a seasoned moderator, speaker & master of ceremonies.

KEY SKILLS AND EXPERTISE
✔ GENDER CONCEPTS & EQUALITY
✔ TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT
✔ MEDIA ENGAGEMENT & MANAGEMENT
✔ PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT
✔ STAKEHOLDER PARTNERSHIPS
✔ MENTORING & LEADERSHIP
✔ STRATEGIC PLANNING

BOARD AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEES
● Board Chair Centre for Women’s Health & Information
● Board Chair of Active Youth Advocacy Initiative
● Board member – Ives Medicare an HMO
● Trustee Transformative Leadership & Sustainable Initiative
● Trustee Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation
● Member of the high-level advisory committee (HILAC) on Women Economic Empowerment and Gender in Nigeria of FGN
● Trustee Maami (NGO empowering Disadvantaged Women & Girls)
● Member Review Code Panel Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC)
● Media lead and member of Technical Working Committee on reviewed Gender Equality Opportunity Bill (2016)
● Member of Africa Women Leaders Network in Nigeria
● Media Consultant for Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) in Nigeria
● Partners Action Aid Nigeria and MacArthur Foundation to empower Women
● United Nations Ambassador for Women
● European Union influencer to end Violence Against Women and Girls in Nigeria
● Media & Communications Strategist for Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA)
● Secretary “Issues of The Heart” a UK women group empowering women through training, mentoring, and counselling
● Co-Founder “Nigerian Women in Diaspora Leadership Forum” a UK women group on leadership

WORK EXPERIENCE
The Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder / Women Radio (WFM 91.7) Nigeria June 2015-date
● Established first of its kind Women Radio in Nigeria and Africa
● Leads a team of 30 employees to successfully create impactful presence of Women Radio brand from scratch to approximate of 15 million plus listenership
● Founded Women in Radio development (WINRAD), a membership of 246 women working in private and public radio broadcasting
● Established the first female academy (Women Radio Centre) that trains female journalist pro bono
● Lead officer for workshops, training and programmes to advance the development and empowerment of females
● Designed Women Radio Training Manual for training journalists on gender reporting
● Trains, mentors and mainstreams women and girls as drivers of gender equity, anti-corruption and accountability campaigns in Nigeria
● Trains, teaches and mentors on female pollical leadership
● Trains female politicians on using media to win elections
● Training political reporters on gender reporting with emphasis on reporting woman politicians positively
● Collaborated with Federal Ministry of Women Affairs & Almanah Hope to set up Nigeria’s Widows Database
● Designed programmes to promote the inclusion of women in public and private leadership positions, condemn violence against Women & Girls, advocate for more women in politics, enhance economic empowerment of Women and law reforms to advance gender equity.
● Designed and Lead officer for Voice of Women (VOW) annual conference & awards which has attracted decision and policy makers in government and corporate organisations that supports empowerment and development of women
● Lead officer on MuryarMata Initiative a radio programme that amplifies Voices of Northern Women


Senior Housing Officer / Housing for Women, United Kingdom June 2003 -2015
∙ Organisation lead on empowering trafficked women, ex-offenders and victims of domestic violence.
∙ Actively led on initiatives that add value and improve ways the team and organisation work. Review of policies and procedures to improve working system.
∙ Coordinated conflict/dispute resolution and mediation. Demonstrating best practice and taking ownership through to problem resolution, ensuring the customer is satisfied
∙ Developed internal and external relationships and positive partnership. Led negotiations with stakeholders and represented the organisation at housing management collaboration meeting on best practice.

Project Officer / London Borough of Ealing, United Kingdom March 2003 – June 2003
∙ Reviewed best practice nomination process and maximized allocation quota for Registered Social Landlords
∙ Developed and maintained good working relations. Negotiated improvements for partner landlord agreements. Monitored and tracked nomination system.

Project Officer / Peabody Trust, United Kingdom Feb 2000-March 2003
∙ Regeneration & Management of Projects and Programmes in Hackney and Islington boroughs
∙ Lead officer on all stock transfer lettings projects. Managed and assessed allocations of vacant properties.
∙ Produced records analysis and statistics as well as promotional and publicity materials on lettings, its policies and procedures.

Radio Presenter & Producer / Choice FM Radio Station, UK 1999- 2002
∙ Presenter/Producer of “African Beats” with live interviews of guests and artistes.
∙ Judge at Kora Awards, South Africa 2002

Director of Sales & Marketing / Africa Independent Television, Nigeria 1996-1998
∙ Coordinated marketing and sales strategy to generate and increase income revenue through advertising and sponsorship.
∙ Researched competition & identify potential markets. Developed pricing strategies to maximize profits and market share ensuring clients’ satisfaction.

Director of Programmes / Ray Power, Nigeria 1992-1996
∙Responsible for and led a team of over 30 staff for conception and selection of the station’s content, shaped the station’s demographic, identity, and core values. create content, produce and direct for Radio broadcast

Producer & Presenter / Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC) 1980-1992
∙ Radio Presenter, Producer and News reader.

TRAINING & COURSES
∙ UNWomen Political Leadership & Candidate Training of Trainers Dakar, Senegal
∙ Mental Health Awareness Training NHS UK
∙ Mary Gober Customer Service Excellence Training, Mary Gober, UK
∙ HR Management for Non-HR Manager Nigeria
∙ Data Protection, Andrew Garbett, UK
∙ Building an effective Team
∙ Data Protection, Andrew Garbett, UK
∙ Diversity Training Solfed, UK
∙ Domestic Violence Awareness ACPC, UK
∙ Disability Equality, UK
∙ Strategic Leadership & Emotional Intelligence for leaders, Nigeria
∙ Dealing with aggressive behaviour & difficult situations Kensington HT UK
∙ Decision making for leaders, Nigeria

If Nigeria must progress and meet up with other developed nations of the world, we must celebrate competence and accomplishments that are attained by her citizens especially people that are doing things differently and flying the National Flag high beyond the shores of Nigeria, Toun Okewale Sonaiya is indeed one of the few Nigerian women that are doing the nation proud and should be sort after for national assignments.

Toun has been the single voice for many women but she never speaks about herself.

#Toun Okewale Sonaiya, Truly Nigerian, Proudly African.
https://royalnews.com.ng/professionalism-and-patriotism-toun-okewales-achievements-speak-loudly/

Even this Youtuber isn't making things easy with his accent. Haha, upgrade naw

INEC should ensure voters exercise their franchise as promised. God bless Nigeria.

On 8 February 2015, exactly 6 days to 2015 general presidential elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced a postponement. Attahiru Jega said postponement was necessary due to security reasons. On 16 February 2019, barely 24 hours to general presidential elections, there was a repeat of 2015 when Professor Mahmood Yakubu announced postponement due to logistics. In a few days, the 2023 general presidential elections is expected to hold and I ask if 25 February is a "GO/NO-GO" due to the shortage of Nigerian naira. I feel a Déjà vu with uncertainties created and I pray that what I feel is false.

The hope of ninety three million, four hundred and sixty nine thousand and eight registered Nigerian voters must not be shattered because of an economic miscalculation by Nigeria’s Apex Bank CBN. How do we expect INEC to service one hundred and seventy six thousand, eight hundred and forty-six Polling Units in Nigeria with no physical cash and still conduct a free and fair election? If INEC is not assured that its cash requirement on election day will be fulfilled how will it be able to re-assure providers of these services that they will get paid thereby eliminating the potential of disappointment on the day?

On Tuesday 7 February 2023, CBN says the naira re-design will not affect the 2023 general election. According to Premium Times, CBN made a commitment to provide INEC with the required cash needed to pay transporters and conduct elections on Saturday 25 February. Following meeting with CBN, Professor Mahmood Yakubu chairman of INEC reaffirmed that elections will hold on 25 February because, according to him, all of INEC's state and national bank accounts are held by CBN and he was assured that INEC will not be affected by the cash constraints.

Contrary to CBN's assurance to provide cash for INEC to conduct a smooth election, Nigeria's apex bank has financially handicapped INEC with these new cash restrictions and this points to a likelihood of INEC postponing 25 February election. Like every Nigerian, INEC has been hit with the dearth of naira and unable to coordinate security, logistics and deploy personnel to polling units for elections to hold. INEC has listed cash services it needs to pay for on election day to include motorcycle, boat, canoe operators, training allowances and water suppliers to its Registration Area Centres. INEC said if they do not pay such providers in cash, they may not be in the position to provide the critical services needed on election day. There are agitations and uncertainties around February 25 elections coupled with economic turmoil, pockets of violence, deaths, hunger, vandalisation of properties and banks, looting of roadside stores, deteriorating mental state and market women forced to sell perishables at a loss. It is important that Nigerian women vote on Saturday 25. A potential logistical challenge and threat to the smooth running of February 25 elections will further disenfranchise Nigerian Women in the electoral process. Yes, we are stranded, helpless and frustrated with the feel of a rudderless ship being controlled by the force of the waves but we must not allow any of these to be used as excuses for not holding elections on Saturday February 25.

CBN must take every step to safeguard 2023 elections by allowing INEC immediate access cash to conduct elections on Saturday; CBN must "not allow itself to be used or to be seen as an agent that frustrated positive outcome of the election"; CBN must not aggravate the current state of agitation and do all in its powers not to be the reason for postponing 2023 elections; CBN must not be the reason to destroy our journey to a sustainable democracy; CBN must not be used as agents of doom to truncate 2023 elections. Therefore, 25 February 2023 must not be a "GO/NO-GO" but a positive date in history.

I understand that Mahmood Yakubu is a man of integrity and highly principled. This is why he must critically analyse the situation of the country and be decisive enough to reassure Nigerians by re-affirming INEC's readiness to conduct the 2023 presidential elections. Yakubu must not wait till the 11th hour to make a habit out of a bad habit in announcing a postponement. Yakubu occupies a critical position and he owes every Nigerian an ethical duty to be honest and declare NOW if 25 February is a "GO/NO-GO” so we can cut our losses and start preparing for new dates to elect Nigeria's 16th president.

We must not institutionalise the bad practise of election postponements in Nigeria. I am therefore optimistic that on Saturday 25 February 2023 Nigerian Women will go out to vote in a free and fair election and Nigeria will be known as the giant of Africa for positive and not for negative omens.

My name is Toun Okewale Sonaiya,
Always Proudly Nigerian.
19 February 2022

You are under a very strong spell. I feel for you

Participants at the just concluded two-day mentoring and coaching for women candidates in Kwara and Kogi states have commended the organizer of the event, Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC), supported by UN Women and the Government of Canada, for the opportunity availed to them.

At the event which was held at Sinclair Hotel, GRA, Ilorin, the female party stalwart also lauded the Women Radio 91.7 for the media engagement stressing that the training will go a long way in promoting and projecting their images ahead of the forthcoming 2023 general elections.

The workshop, according to them will further enhance the capacity and capability of the female candidates to display their readiness wrestle power from their male counterparts in free, fair and credible election atmosphere.

Earlier in her remarks, the Director of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, said: "The programme become necessary, looking at the number of women currently in political positions in Nigeria, we intend to build and strengthen their capacity to ensure there is a network between them as well as to build their. So that we can have more women leadership positions."

"You are also to improve your social capital, to be known as a person of integrity, be pro-less privileged people, be relevant in your local community as well as in your religions organisations."

In her presentation, Mrs. Anike-Ade Funke Treasure, highlighted strategies on media engagement as a politician.

She stressed that "as a politician you have control of how you wanted to be perceived. You need to work on your positive perception. You need to know that you are different from you as a politician. Being a politician is your higher self."

She however taught participants how to create and use powerful messages, press statements and other media tools at their disposal, adding that efficient communication with media will create a platform to leverage their political career.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the event, a Hon. Yetunde Ibrahim, Isin Constituency, House of Assembly
Labour Party, disclosed that, "personally, I enjoyed the fact that we are all brought together. We can work together as one in order to achieve common goal which is for we, female candidates to win elections in 2023."

She added that, "Although, I am a shy person, but as a politician, you must be bold, vocal and open up. You need to let people know what is happening. And presently, we are being taught how to communicate with the media, how can people know us? What are our plans and how do we publicise ourselves?"

Reacting to how to tackle challenge of funding the campaign as women, Hon. Yetunde Ibrahim noted that "everything is not about money, we are wives and mothers to the nation. Our past speaks favourably for us. Little things that we have done will speak for us. We may not be buoyant, but we have the knowledge and zeal to impact positively in the society. "

Also speaking, the Deputy Governorship candidate of Labour Party in Kwara State, Mrs. Ronke Elizabeth Ehindero, said: "Since we started the training, I have had the required boldness and confidence to go the forthcoming election, unlike the usual me that doesn't like speaking up. And I know with all I have learnt here, I will do better and will win this election in 2023 by the grace of God.

"My advice for women is to come out. You will agree with me that they have been pushing us back in the past because we are women, maybe their plans for us is to end up in the kitchen. I want women to come out not only in politics but in other human endeavours and social gatherings."

The NNPP House of Assembly candidates, representing Ogori-Mangogo Constituency in Kogi State, Hon. Agela Amao, advised women to come out and participate in politics massively.

According to her, "Women can do it better becasue we feel the pains more than men. We know what is happening in Nigeria as of today. We know the weak points and how best to approach issues better.

"This is coming even as the federal government passed the new Electoral Act, which guarantees to improve level-playing ground for everyone, as well as improve women fortune in politics."

In addition, the Action Alliance Deputy Governorship candidate in Kwara State,
Mrs. Princess Victorial Oluwayemisi Bamidipo, expressed her delight and satisfaction over the programmed stressing that, "This workshop is so interesting because it enlightens women, especially we, the candidates to know most of the things we didn't understand before. I now understand that gender is not all about male or female.

"We also learnt that we should work with our agents, which we often take for granted. We are also given training on before, during and post-election strategies. As well as knowing the constitutional guidelines relating to our political careers."

She further emphasised that women now know what to fight for and what not to, so they wouldn't be making wrong accusations.

A Development Expert and facilitator at the event, Mr. Jide Ojo, had during his lecture titled: "Electoral Landscape and Framework, encouraged women candidates saying: "The new Electoral Act will benefit women the most" .

He added that, "All shenanigans practices done by men to religate women won't be possible any longer under the new Electral Act. Even, Returning Officers, unlike previously, he doesn't have absolute power to declare winner anymore. INEC can be petitioned and issues duly investigated.

"With the use of electronic voting, you can follow up the votes cast from INEC website and do the parallel tabulation to establish evidence" stressing that, "There is need to encourage women candidates to deploy reliable agents to polling units that can challenge misconducts.

https://royalnews.com.ng/kwara-kogi-female-candidates-hail-wardc-others-over-mentoring-workshops/

No fewer than 40 female candidates on the platform of various political parties have converged in Ilorin the capital city of Kwara State with the sole aim of emerging victorious in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.


They spoke on their readiness to take the barton of leadership in political offices at two-day Mentoring and Couching Workshop for Women Candidites in Kwara/Kogi organised by the Women Radio and Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC), supported by UN Women and the Government of Canada.

In her remarks at the event, the Action Alliance Deputy Governorship candidate in Kwara State, Mrs. Princess Victorial Oluwayemisi Bamidipo, expressed her delight and satisfaction over the programmed stressing that, “This workshop is so interesting because it enlightens women, especially we, the candidates to know most of the things we didn’t understand before. I now understand that gender is not all about male or female.

“We also learnt that we should work with our agents, which we often take for granted. We are also given training on before, during and post-election strategies. As well as knowing the constitutional guidelines relating to our political careers.

She further emphasised that women now know what to fight for and what not to, so they wouldn’t be making wrong accusations.

Also speaking, the NNPP House of Assembly candidates, representing Ogori-Mangogo Constituency in Kogi State, Hon. Angela Amao, advised women to come out and participate in politics massively.

According to her, “Women can do it better becasue we feel the pains more than men. We know what is happening in Nigeria as of today. We know the weak points and how best to approach issues better.

“This is coming even as the federal government passed the new Electoral Act, which guarantees to improve level-playing ground for everyone, as well as improve women fortune in politics.”

In her presentation, Mrs. Emmanuella Azu, of the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center, (WARDC) revealed that the workshop was the 5th of the 7th states taking place.

Azu said: “We’ve earlier conducted the training in Ekiti, Ebonyi, Calabar, Borno and Kwara is the fifth state. However, we have a partnering state, Kogi, in this one. The whole essense of this is to have female representation at the end of 2023 general election. We look forward to seeing more women at parliament, and at various elective positions, not just appointments.

While responding to how women could make a difference, Mrs. Azu noted that, “Having more women in the parliament means we would have more gender-sensitive laws, and sustainability development for the country saying, “Any system that is stewed towards any genders is actually problematic for the country.”

In his lecture, Development Expert and facilitator at the event, Mr. Jide Ojo, stressed that the new Electoral Act will benefit women the most, citing a case of guaranteed fair election.

Speaking on the theme: “Electoral Landscape and Framework, Mr. Ojo maintained that, “All shenanigans practices done by men to religate women won’t be possible any longer under the new Electral Act. Even, Returning Officers, unlike previously, he doesn’t have absolute power to declare winner anymore. INEC can be petitioned and issues duly investigated.

“With the use of electronic voting, you can follow up the votes cast from INEC website and do the parallel tabulation to establish evidence” stressing that, “There is need to encourage women candidates to deploy reliable agents to polling units that can challenge misconducts.

“You are also to improve your social capital, to be known as a person of integrity, be pro-less privileged people, be relevant in your local community as well as in your religions organisations.”

https://royalnews.com.ng/2023-ngos-train-kwara-kogi-female-candidates-on-election-winning-strategies/

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