Fostering African Collaboration: Chairman of Tetrazzini Group Holds Business Meeting With S/Africa Ex-President Zuma

In the spirit of fostering collaboration within African continent, the Chairman of Tetrazzini Group, Chief Dr. Prince Don Okonkwo has met with the former President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma in Johannesburg.

He met with the former African National Congress (ANC) leader at the weekend where they both discussed areas of collaboration that will help both countries leverage on each other's strength for growth.

The billionaire businessman has business interest across Africa, including South Africa where he has invested heavily in the last eight years.

The meeting is seen as a strategic move towards harnessing the potentials of both countries and create opportunity for technology transfer that will boost the economy in the area of energy, Industrialisation and agriculture.

A former governorship candidate in Anambra, Dr Prince Don Okonkwo in May last year was in South Africa shortly after their national and provincial election where he understudied their voting procedure and what Nigeria can learn from them.

He applauded the electoral process but expressed worry that some persons could be disenfranchised as a result of the new procedure introduced by the electoral body.

Dr. Okonkwo is a known voice in Africa's political and business environment where he has consistently continued to make contributions towards making the environment conducive in both fields.

His company, Zzini Media had recently won a N4.3bn lawsuit against former world boxing champion, Floyd Mayweather in the United States.

Hon. Jim Okolo holds a strategic meeting with the US Embassy Political Officer And Other Senior Officials In Abuja


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The MD/CEO Jimez Petroleum Resources Limited, Hon. Amb Chief Jim Okolo Chimezie has meet with political officer, Ms Cassandra Carraway and top officials of US embassy in Abuja, seeking to foster close collaboration with US in subsequent local and international elections.

Hon. Okolo, an international election observer played a key role along with Nigerian observer team in November US election, in which former President Donald Trump made a shocking come back to the White House, defeating Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party.

At the meeting in Abuja, discussions centered on partnership prospects, leveraging on high tech tools being deployed by the US to enhance election observation in Nigeria as well as sharing knowledge, human capital development and capacity building.

He is one of the vocal voices in electoral credibility, democracy advocacy and effective governance in Nigeria and across the West African region.

A UN accredited election observer, Amb. Jim Okolo has toured various countries of the world helping to develop confidence in electoral system.

Amb. Jim Okolo has deployed his network in recent times to enhance the relations between Nigeria and the western world, aiming to attract their technology and skills for national development.

Not long ago, he was at an event at the Italian embassy in Abuja where he applauded the relations between Nigeria and Italy, which he noted has brought about development in key sectors of the economy.

Our correspondent who was at the meeting with US embassy officials reports that the elections coming up in Africa in the 2025 were also discussed, especially with regards to deployment of credible observation team with the needed tools to be part of the electoral exercises.

Billionaire businessman, philanthropist, and the CEO Diamond Leeds Ltd, High Chief Kenneth Ifekudu (Agbalanze Onyekachukwu na Ozubulu) has been honoured with another chieftaincy title in recognition of his massive philanthropy and humanitarian works in his community.

This time, he was honoured with the title of Ife Ozubulu, which means "light of Ozubulu" by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnamdi Fidelis Oruche, Obi Ozubulu in appreciation of his contributions towards raising the bar of development in Ozubulu, Anambra State.

The event took place on Dec. 31, 2024 at Ugodinobi Palace, Amakwa, Ozubulu, Ekwusigo LGA., Anambra State and was a colourful sight to behold as sons and daughters of the community and high profile individuals filed out to witness the happy moment.

His friend and associates from far and wide came to be part of the wonderful display of rich cultural heritage of the people of Ozubulu.

His beautiful wife, Lolo Kenneth Ifekudu was also crowned with a prestigious tradition title in recognition of her overwhelming support to the husband.

Agbalanze is known to have brought succour and laughter to many families in Ozubulu in particular and Anambra State in general.

Not long ago, he empowered over 100 persons with mini trucks to support their livelihood, in response to growing economic challenges facing many families across the country, arising from high cost of living, hyper inflation and job losses.

Similar projects have also been carried out in the past to advance his humanitarian and philanthropic programmes such as the construction of the Mega Ultra Modern Market and a 2.27km road in Ozubulu.

High Chief Ifekudu who recently won the award of businessman of the year of the Sun Newspaper has consistently demonstrated that charity begins at home, which inspired the decision to ensure that people of his community are the first beneficiaries of the empowerment.

Ifekudu, who is also the Patron of the Igbo Ambassadors Club, United Kingdom, who recently unveiled his multi-billion Naira mansion in Anambra was last year honoured by Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers' Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) with the prestigious award of Man of the Year.

A holder of national honour of OFR, he has remained consistent in carrying out very impactful projects in communities.

How AI is Helping Nigerian Students Earn First Class Degrees

By Prof. Chris Imumolen

In recent years, there has been a noticeable spike in the number of First Class graduates emerging from both private and government-owned universities in Nigeria. This phenomenon has sparked curiosity about whether Nigerian students have suddenly become more academically focused or if there has been an unprecedented leap in intelligence levels. The reality, however, is tied to the integration and widespread use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education.

AI has revolutionized education, providing tools that simplify and accelerate learning processes. For instance:AI-Powered Research Tools: Students can generate theses, essays, and even comprehensive project work within seconds using platforms like ChatGPT, Jasper AI, and others.Problem-Solving Applications: Complex mathematical equations and scientific problems can now be solved instantaneously using AI tools like Wolfram Alpha or Symbolab, Language Proficiency: AI language tools have bridged gaps in grammar and expression, enabling students to deliver polished and well-articulated work.These tools make academic tasks more accessible, often leading to exceptional performance. However, this raises critical concerns about the authenticity of academic achievements.

Despite its benefits, the heavy reliance on AI poses significant threats to traditional learning and critical thinking:

Mental Laziness: Many students now depend on AI for tasks that were traditionally handled by personal effort and intellectual rigor, leading to diminished cognitive engagement,

Superficial Knowledge: AI-assisted work does not necessarily translate to actual understanding or mastery of subjects, as students may excel in grades without being able to demonstrate real-world knowledge,

Ethical Concerns: The use of AI in exams and assignments has blurred the lines between academic integrity and malpractice, making it harder to assess genuine performance.

The presence of AI is undeniable and transformative. For educators and institutions to adapt effectively, they must: Acknowledge AI’s Permanence: AI is here to stay, and instead of resisting, educators must incorporate it into teaching strategies to enhance, rather than replace, learning, Upgrade Educational Techniques: Teachers and lecturers must embrace technological advancements, using AI to design more interactive and thought-provoking lessons., Develop AI-Detection Tools: Systems capable of identifying AI-generated work should be integrated into grading systems to ensure fair assessments, Emphasize Critical Thinking: Institutions should focus on fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and independent reasoning in students.

AI has undoubtedly made learning more accessible and academic success easier to achieve. However, true education extends beyond grades; it involves nurturing a generation that can think, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. Educators must champion this balance, ensuring that AI is a tool for enhancement rather than a crutch that stifles genuine intellectual growth.

The rise in First Class graduates is both an achievement and a challenge for Nigerian education. How we address the integration of AI today will determine the quality of education and intellect in the future

Tinubu’s Govt Pushes For Increased Investment in Niger Delta as NDEIS Holds Successful Economic, Investment Summit in Rivers


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In an effort to provide enduring means of livelihood to the youth population in Rivers State and by extension Niger Delta region, boost trade and economic activities, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration has partnered with Niger Delta States on trade and investment expo.

This comes as the governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara expresses commitment to leverage on the abundant human capital and productive population in Rivers State to ensure that youths in the state have access to means of livelihood.

The governor gave this assurance recently in Port Harcourt during the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit organised by KenEva Consult Ltd and Ken-Rich Global Consult Ltd.

Representated by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Ordu, the governor expressed delight that such platforms are being championed by visionary youth leaders, saying it will assist in enlarging the economic base of the state and create more entrepreneurs who will be employers of labour.

Also speaking, the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore CON highlighted the need to foster partnership with the states in the region order to ensure that development trickles down to the grassroot across Niger Delta.

Also in his remarks, the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku applauded the initiative, noting that it is line with the vision of the Commission under his leadership to create opportunities for self-employment for young people in the region.

He also called on multinationals to bring back their headquarters to the region, noting that their operations are safe and secured anywhere in Niger Delta.

In his remarks, the founder NDEIS /NDIFTE, Amb Kenule Nwiya while commending President Tinubu for his interest in growth and development of Niger Delta said the Economic and investment summit and expo is strategically designed to give back to the people of the oil-rich region.

He thanked Governors in the Niger Delta states for the right atmosphere they have continued to create in order to ensure that entrepreneurship thrives and young people empowered to make a good living.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Okoye emphasised the need to invest in the health of the people in order the have a productive population.

He therefore urged governments across the country to devote a large chunk of their budget to health sector, appealing for collaboration among states in the Niger Delta so that the region will become a destination for medical tourism.

The CEO of Barat Petroleum, Prince Haruna Momoh in his goodwill message said all regions and states need partnership with each other, in order to galvanize their strength for economic development.

Notable organizations, including NG Eagle Airline, Save A Life Foundation and others took advantage of the trade expo to reach out to new markets.

The event supported by the Ministry of Regional Development, formerly Ministry of Niger Delta had in attendance all the 23 local government areas of Rivers State led by ALGON Chairman in the state and the Mayor of Port Harcourt, Honourable Ezebunwo Ichemati.

Youth leaders from the Niger Delta region, civil society organizations, traditional rulers and women groups were also in attendance.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Okoye who is the chairman of Save A Life foundation was also on ground to give guests free medical consultations while the foundation also offered free medical treatment.

The Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit is precursor to the Niger Delta International Festival and Trade Expo coning up from Dec. 16—22 at Urhobo College, Warri, Delta State.

Highlight of the event was presentation of a symbolic key of investment pathway to the region, and was received by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State who had earlier declared the event open on behalf of the governor.

Gov Dauda Lawal, Minister of Youth Development, Leadership Expert Okorie, Victor Enebeli, Others To Be Honored At Peace Achievers Conference,

Notable Nigerians have been listed to be attended at the 14th Peace Achievers International Conference and Awards, a convergence of stakeholders in the country's peace and security sector, ABUJAPRESS reports.

With the theme, "Building Bridges for Sustainable Peace and Security: Integrating Sectors for a Harmonious Future," the conference is aimed at strengthening the nation's unity and integration

Organised by Davdan Peace and Advocacy Foundation in partnership with Peace. Peace Ambassador Agency, the conference will discuss ways and means of reducing the tone of antagonism, division, and separatist agitation to entrench a culture of peace, unity, and tolerance

It will not fail to honor individuals who have made significant contributions towards advancing national unity and peaceful co-existence.

Top on the list of awardees include His Excellency Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, who will be honoured with People's Governor of The Year in Peace & Community Development, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who will win Special Recognition Award in Youth Capacity Development, leadership coach and President, Gotni Leadership Center, Dr Linus Okorie who will be decorated Leadership Mentor of The Year and CEO, Megastar Media Communications, Mr. Adeniyi Ifetayo, popularly known as a celebrity journalist who will receive Award for Excellence in Media & Community Development.

Other awardees are the Director of Studies, Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute, Dr. Victor Nonso Enebeli, who will be honoured Outstanding Impact Maker / Peace Builder Award of the Year, Managing Director, 100th Energy Services Limited, George Emeka Okoh will receive Special Recognition Award in Sustainable Business Practices, Senior Staff Member, Bursary Department, University of Delta State, Mrs. Asiwe Tessy Ogechukwu, who will bag Impact Maker Award 2024.

Also on the list of awardee include, Special Envoy to The United Republic of Tanzania, H.E Ambassador Adeniran Michael Timothy, Director, Funmilayo Health Foundation who will be decorated Youth Ambassador of the Year 2024 as well as the Executive Director Staten Projects & Construction Limited, Barr. Rita Ifeyinwa George-Oko, who will receive Award for Excellence in Business & Impact Maker.

The Project Director, Peace Ambassador Agency, the organiser of the award, Amb. Kingsley Amafibe expressed satisfaction over the level of preparation and assured that conference and award will record huge success, expressing hope that through collective efforts, Nigeria can achieve peace.

While speaking to news men, He said the recognition is to encourage others to help in contributing to raising the horizon of unity and peaceful co-existence.

According to ABUJAPRESS, others to be awarded include Chief Godwin Onini, CEO First Fortune Global Energy Co Ltd. Award for Excellence in Business and Community Development, Arc Henry.C Eziashi, MD HUNCHEZ CONCEPTS NIGERIA Ltd. Peace Builder/Agent for Change Ambassador. Amb Mohammed Tijjani Sabiu, CEO Impeccable Impressions Nigeria Ltd. Award for Excellence in Business and Community Development, Michael L Bartlett-Vanderpuye, President and Group Chairman, M&C Group Global. Most Innovative Business Executive in Africa, HRH Eze Boniface Ifeanyi Ariekpere Ajuzie, Chairman, Oma Nma Life Saving and Health Foundation, Indigenous Peace and Community Development Personality of the Year. Osahon Okunbo, Executive Director, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, Special Recognition Award for Excellence in Public Service. Peter Chuka Nwachukwu MCI, CTO, Chairman, GMO, Amanda Group, Special Recognition Award in Financial Management. Mr Hero Chinedu Usiagwu, MD, Zioncity Innovation Services Limited, Special Recognition Award in Innovative and social impact promotion.Conan Orsakwu, Director, Constrix Real Estate Development Ltd, Business Strategist and Impact Maker of The Year. Ejifor Gloria Oyema, CEO, Glotitos Nigeria Limited, Business Manager and Humanitarian Ambassador of the Year. Chief Adebayo John Ayoola, Chairman, Aand DEE Autos Ltd, Award for Excellence in Business and Community Development. Mrs Franca Erabome Usiagwu, Project Director, Rebirth of Sistaz Foundation, Humanitarian Impact Maker of The Year. Amb Victoria Olufunke Olatunde, Founder, Victoria Olatunde Foundation, Award for Excellence in peace building and community development. Dr Kate Effiong, Founder, KMI Diamonds Girl child initiative Prince Somtochukwu David, CEO, Royal VR Center Ltd, who will get Award of Excellence in Business & Community Development, Mrs. Franca Erabome Usiagwu, the Project Director, Rebirth of Sistaz Foundation, will be honoured with Humanitarian Impact Maker of The Year, Chief Adebayo John Ayoola, Chairman, A & DEE Autos Ltd, to receive Award for Excellence in Business & Community Development, and Nurudeen Lawal Danmusa, Chairman, Constrix Real Estate Development Ltd, will be honoured with Award for Excellence for Peace, Community Development & Real Estate Manager of the Year and host of others.. one of the major activities is the unveiling of 100 Most Notable African Leadership and Business Executive Magazine and the lunch of The Rise of African Fashion Designers and Lifestyle book written by Amb Kingsley Amafibe

PCI Foundation Splashes Cash Gift Of N2.7m To Its Best Graduating Student From Togo University


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Prof. Chris Imumolen (PCI) Foundation has offered a cash gift of 1 million CFA to its best graduating student from the prestigious Global Wealth University in Lome, Togo, ABUJAPRESS reports.

Amaobi Precious was among the students who took part in the recent 2024 convocation ceremony of the school.

In her response, Amaobi Precious who enjoyed a tuition free scholarship said the cash prize came to her as a surprise as she never expected it.

Describing the opportunity to study in the school as a privilege, she thanked Prof. Imumolen and the university management team for their commitment in raising leaders who are fit to confront challenges of the society.

She also encouraged students who are hoping for excellence in their academic pursuit to be focused, committed and hard-working without losing focus.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P3puQmJGZk?si=KVGnoFpDYLbApnq-

The convocation took place in Togo and Ghana simultaneously, at the same university while that of Nigeria comes up next week.

In his address according to ABUJAPRESS, the Vice Chancellor of the University and the founder PCI Foundation, Prof. Chris Imumolen reiterated the readiness of the academic institution to train leaders who are well equipped to confront global challenges and proffer solutions to problems bordering on development.

He said, "The world all over is confronted with economic problems, engineering and technological related problems and many countries are advancing to fourth industrial revolution.

"In Africa, we need leaders who will be fit. At the Global Wealth University, we are preparing and nurturing our students not only to be outstanding in their academic but to have topnotch skills that will be added to their academic programme.

"We have made professional training compulsory for every student and that is out of curriculum programme which we feel is needed to build them to be solution providers and not just job-seekers", he stated.

He also revealed the plan of the university to ensure that it's graduates have access to funding to help them pursue entrepreneurship.

Sen. Ned Nwoko Says 6 Bills Awaiting Senate Action Will Stimulate Nigeria's Political, Economic, Social wellbeing

Sen. Ned Nwoko's Six Bills Poised To Address Political, Economic Issues in Nigeria

The Senator representing Delta North senatorial district of Delta State at the 10th senate, Senator Prince Ned Nwoko has unveiled six bills he sponsored at the Senate awaiting Senate's approval.

The lawmaker said the six bills when passed by the Senate and signed into law will advance growth and deepen the country's political, economic and Social wellbeing.

He added that they will address critical issues and seek to improve various aspects of Nigerian society.

They include, a bill for an act to alter the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Cap. C23 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 for the creation of Anioma State and for matters connected therewith, a bill for an act to establish the National Talent, Rehabilitation and Integration Agency, and for related matters and a bill for an act to alter the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, No. 7, to prohibit the discriminatory use of foreign currency payment for remuneration and for matters connected therewith.

The rest three are, a bill for an act to alter the Electoral Act, 2022 (as altered) to provide for the issuance of permanent voter card at the point of registration and for related matters, a bill for an act to alter the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to provide for the mandatory first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) training at homes, schools, institutions and offices, and the adoption of the Good Samaritan Laws and matters connected therewith, 2024 and a bill for an act to alter the 1999 constitution (as altered) to provide for diaspora voting and for related matters.

Addressing the press in Abuja on Friday, Senator Nwoko noted that the bills cover a wide range of topics, including compulsory professional indemnity, banks' capitalization, health insurance, equity, cashless asset acquisition, self-defence and firearm ownership regulation, and establishing laws governing the election of Nigerians into the ECOWAS Parliament.

He also expressed dissatisfaction with the unconstitutional and arbitrary use of foreign currencies for transactions in Nigeria.

According to the lawmaker, such acts not only devalue the local currency Naira, but also undermine the nation's sovereignty as an independent nation.

He said: "It gives me great concern that our currency is only valuable within Nigeria. When the Europeans, Americans, French and other foreign multinationals transact businesses in Nigeria, they make payment with the US dollars, pounds, or Euros, but when Nigerians want to transact any kind of business, they are compelled to use the host countries currency, this has to stop. Our currency is our pride, it is a symbol of our sovereignty and territorial integrity which we must guard, extol and give adequate reverence we can't continue to disregard and disrespect our currency".

He added, "You can see that the president is already keying into this bill by approving the sale of crude oil using the Naira which the NNPCL has already started its implementation. If we stop the use of dollars and other foreign currencies in Nigeria, it will strengthen the naira and improve its value".

He alleged that suspected fraudsters attempted to defraud him by leveraging on his interest in malaria eradication in Africa.

However, the case has now been resolved in his favour as a UK court has cleared him of any wrongdoing and ordered that his money be released to him within 7 days.

Earlier at the press conference, the communication coordinator for the Senator, Hon. Mrs Gloria Okolugbo enumerated the achievements of the senator and praised his selfless sacrifices and passion towards delivering the dividends of good representation to his constituency and the country as a whole.

"I have been working with the senator since he was elected into the red chamber, I believe that he has done so well in terms of delivering good governance to his people. He is a grass root politician and has been in the forefront of advocating for anything that will better the lives of his people.

"He has attracted investment and infrastructure to his constituency to the tune of over 3.5 billion naira within just one year and seven months into the Senate. The bills he is proposing, if passed will help Nigeria in her quest for political and economic recovery which is one of the hallmarks of President Bola Tinubu's administration", she stated.