The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed December 8 for hearing of a N1bn suit instituted by a journalist and founder of PRNigeria, Malam Yushau Shuaib, against the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, Plateau State, challenging his withdrawal from the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47 of the Institute.

The chief judge of the Court, Justice John Tsoho, assigned the case to Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Abuja division to address the grievances of the plaintiff against NIPSS.

Shuaib had dragged NIPSS before the Court to challenge his unlawful and arbitrary withdrawal from the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47 of the Institute after his admission had been approved by President Bola Tinubu and necessary payment and conditions precedents had been fully met.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1329/2025, Shuaib, a renowned public relations expert, is demanding N1billion in general, special, and aggravated damages against NIPSS over emotional trauma and reputational damage he suffered as a result of unlawful and unjust action of NIPSS against him

He is also seeking an additional N100 million as litigation costs, having issued a pre-action notice on June 16, 2025, to the Institute’s director general, Professor Ayo Omotayo, which was allegedly ignored by the management.

The case, filed on his behalf by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Yunus Abdulsalam, seeks a court order setting aside his withdrawal from SEC 47 and reinstating him with full rights, benefits, and privileges.

Shuaib is also asking for a perpetual injunction restraining NIPSS, its agents, or officials from further harassment, intimidation, or cyberbullying.

In his originating summons, the plaintiff raised eight issues for determination. He argued that the publication of a news article by PRNigeria, an independent media organisation, cannot lawfully be attributed to him as misconduct when he neither authored nor endorsed it.

He also questioned whether NIPSS’s alleged access and use of his private email without consent violated his constitutional right to privacy under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution.

Shuaib further contended that disciplinary action against him for professional opinions expressed in a published article breached his right to freedom of expression guaranteed by Section 39(1).

He argued that barring other participants from interacting with him and removing him from official platforms amounted to harassment, cyberbullying, and forced isolation.

He maintained that denying him participation in the international study tour, despite his full payment of ₦18.3 million course fees, constituted discrimination and breach of contract.

Shuaib also faulted his suspension and withdrawal from the course based on alleged “externalisation of the subject” without a fair hearing, describing it as a violation of his constitutional right under Section 36(1).

He is therefore seeking declarations that the actions of NIPSS were unlawful, unjustifiable, discriminatory, and unsupported by any regulation guiding the institute.

In a 40-paragraph affidavit, Shuaib stated that he was nominated by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to represent it at the course, a nomination approved by the President of Nigeria.

He attached his admission letter, proof of payment of ₦18.3 million, and evidence of compliance with NIPSS requirements, including handing over of responsibilities at his company, Image Merchants Promotion Limited, publishers of PRNigeria.

He alleged that despite complying with institutional rules, he was subjected to harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary disciplinary actions.

According to him, on March 24, he received a query over a PRNigeria article titled “NIPSS Goes Digital; Launches Paperless Platform after Submitting Landmark Report to President Tinubu.”

Shuaib insisted he neither authored nor edited the article, which other media outlets had widely reported.

He further alleged that on April 25, NIPSS again queried him about an internal email concerning an editorial, “Understanding the ‘Blue’ in the Blue Economy.”

He stated the article was a professional reflection containing no sensitive information, yet NIPSS intercepted it before it could be published.

Shuaib claimed that the queries were unfounded and not supported by the NIPSS Code of Conduct. He further alleged that his withdrawal letter dated June 2, 2025, was curiously addressed only to NIPR without being officially served on him.

The plaintiff is asking the court to reinstate him into SEC 47 with full privileges, to declare that NIPSS has no authority to penalise him for content published by an independent platform, to hold that accessing his private emails violated his constitutional rights, and to declare his withdrawal unlawful, unjustifiable, and discriminatory.

It is sad that we lost you, Comrade Abiodun Fidelista Aremu. You were exceptional in your generation of the Nigerian left. You fought many battles against neocolonial forces and their local collaborators. We who were in the trenches with you on all the fronts know these facts about your life.

The post We will never forget you: A tribute to Abiodun Aremu appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed an alarming wave of emigration popularly referred to as the “japa” phenomenon. Doctors, nurses, engineers, academics, and even skilled artisans are leaving the country in droves..

The post When the best minds leave home appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The International Centre for Commerce (ICC), Lagos, was partially shut down as officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), led by its Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Martins Iluyomade

The post Pandemonium as NAFDAC invades Lagos Trade Fair Complex with soldiers appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) have disclosed that Africa’s creative industry generates over $36 billion annually, serving as a major driver for youth empowerment and sustainable development across the continent.

The UN agencies emphasised the need to empower young people through creativity, innovation, and awareness of intellectual property (IP) rights as tools for peacebuilding and social transformation.

This was revealed yesterday in Abuja during the closing ceremony of the 9th Abuja International Photo Festival, which featured young photographers and filmmakers under the theme “Creativity for Resilience, Empowerment and Transformative Engagement.”

The UNODC Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Cheikh Touré, explained that the organisation’s mandate which includes anti-corruption, drug control, cybercrime, and organised crime conventions—now adopts a youth-centred approach to ensure long-term societal impact.

“Africa’s time is now. But when you look closely, our greatest potential lies with the youth,” he said. “It is important not to design programmes for them, but with them. The saying ‘Not for us, without us’ must guide every development effort.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, Head of WIPO in Nigeria, encouraged young creatives to acquire knowledge of intellectual property laws to safeguard their work and benefit financially.

“When you create something whether a photograph, a film, or a song you automatically own rights over that work,” he explained. “These include moral rights, which ensure you are credited and your work is not altered, and economic rights, which allow you to earn from your creations.”

He added that these rights last throughout the creator’s life and 70 years after death, noting that understanding them enables young people to make informed business decisions.

In his closing remarks, the convener and founder of the Abuja International Photo Festival, Mr. Efe Osaze, described photography as a universal language that transcends borders and biases, with the power to connect people and inspire conversations that lead to positive change.

He expressed satisfaction with the success of this year’s edition, describing it as “a wonderful three days of engagement, panel sessions, workshops, and exhibitions.”

“Over the past three days, we have engaged with artists, photographers, and filmmakers from Nigeria, Africa, and other parts of the world to examine how imagery can help make the world a better place,” he said.

“Everything we have done in the past few days has been a rallying call to young people to use their creativity and imagery to hold the government accountable and to engage governance stakeholders.”

Osaze emphasised the festival’s focus on addressing social issues such as crime, drug abuse, and misinformation, stressing that while these challenges may not be completely eradicated, visual storytelling can play a vital role in reducing them.

The President and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, has urged regulators and operators in the banking sector to deepen digital transformation to promote an inclusive financial system.

The post CIBN seeks better innovation, confers honorary fellows on CBN chiefs appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The Bauchi State Fire Service has uncovered that arson was behind the recent fire outbreak that destroyed buildings at the Bill and Melinda Gates College of Health, Ningi.

During a post-incident inspection visit to the college, acting director of the Bauchi State Fire Service, Builder Dauda Bala Pali, revealed that investigators found matches and hand gloves at the scene of the blaze, items he described as “highly suspicious” and potentially indicative of arson.

The fire, which tore through the college premises, destroyed valuable property, medical equipment, and learning materials, leaving students and staff in shock and uncertainty.

Speaking exclusively to our correspondent, Builder Pali said the discovery was made as part of a damage assessment mission led by the Fire Service to determine the cause of the inferno and to promote proactive fire safety measures in institutions across the state.

“Our team discovered matches and hand gloves within the affected area, and this raises serious concerns about the possibility of human involvement.

“We are working closely with relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to prevent such incidents in the future,” he said.

The revelation has sparked widespread concern among residents and stakeholders, with many calling for a comprehensive security review at the Bill and Melinda Gates College of Health.

Questions are now being raised about the adequacy of the school’s fire safety and surveillance systems.

As investigations continue, the Bauchi State Fire Service has reiterated its commitment to enhancing fire safety awareness, urging educational institutions and the general public to adopt preventive measures and maintain vigilance against potential threats.

A central puzzle that baffles many Nigerians today is how a nation so richly endowed with natural resources can remain trapped in pervasive poverty.

The post Why production is panacea to poverty appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The World Bank has fixed December 16 as the tentative date for the approval of Nigeria’s $1 billion Development Policy Financing (DPF) under the Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration programme.

The post World Bank to approve Nigeria’s $1b devt loan in December appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

International economist and youth leader, Dr Raymond Edoh, has congratulated Major General Waidi Shaibu on his appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu.

In a personally signed statement, Edoh described the appointment as “a well-deserved recognition of competence, discipline, and dedication to national service.”

He commended President Tinubu for what he called a visionary and merit-driven decision, saying the choice of Major General Shaibu reflected the President’s commitment to excellence and integrity in leadership.

“Major General Waidi Shaibu’s appointment mirrors President Tinubu’s unwavering belief in merit, capacity, and excellence in public service. His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and defence speaks volumes of his patriotism and leadership quality,” Edoh said.

The youth advocate expressed confidence that the new Army Chief would uphold loyalty, professionalism, and democratic values, ensuring that the Nigerian Army remains a stabilising force for peace and national cohesion.

“General Shaibu is a firm believer in democracy and constitutional order. Under his command, I am confident the Army will continue to champion human rights and national security in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

Edoh also reaffirmed support for President Tinubu’s ongoing security reforms, urging Nigerians to rally behind the administration and the new Army Chief to achieve lasting peace, unity, and development across the country.

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has identified persistent non-compliance, outsourcing of labour and weak enforcement mechanisms as major obstacles undermining effective implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Speaking on behalf of the NSITF managing-director, Oluwaseun Faleye, the general-manager for the Abuja region, Bridget Ashang, outlined these concerns while addressing participants at the LACAN Annual Labour Conference in Abuja.

She said enforcement of the Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) 2010 remained one of the Fund’s toughest challenges, despite the law’s clear provisions on employer obligations to insure workers against occupational risks.

Ashang noted that some high-profit operators in the oil and gas sector continue to evade their statutory responsibility to register and remit ECS contributions, often hiding behind complex joint venture structures or offshore contracts.

She added that the growing trend of outsourcing and casualisation had further complicated accountability for workers’ safety and compensation, leaving many injured employees stranded between contractors and subcontractors.

“The oil and gas sector, which drives our economy, operates in some of the most hazardous environments, yet, enforcement reveals recurring lapses in safety protocols, poor hazard reporting, and limited awareness of the law among both employers and workers,” she said.

According to her, weak penalties for default and a prevailing low-compliance culture have discouraged adherence, while hard-to-reach offshore locations also hinder effective monitoring by inspectors.

The NSITF, she explained, has adopted several measures to strengthen compliance, including the digitalisation of registration and remittance processes, enhanced inspection of employer records, and closer collaboration with regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Other initiatives, she noted, include the establishment of a service delivery centre in Bonny, simplified claims processing, and increased stakeholder sensitisation in the oil and gas subsector.

She, however, stressed that greater institutional cooperation and stronger legal backing were essential to achieving full enforcement.

She said, “Despite the clarity of the law, enforcement within the oil and gas industry remains one of the most challenging frontiers for the NSITF. We confront, daily, the paradox of high-profit enterprises operating within low-compliance culture when it comes to social protection.

Many operators – particularly in the upstream and servicing sub-sectors, have yet to fully comply with the statutory obligation to remit ECS contributions. Some invoke complex joint venture structures or “offshore” contracting arrangements to evade registration.

“A troubling trend is the outsourcing of labour and casualisation, practices that fragment employment relationships and obscure employer liability.

“A worker may wear the logo of one multinational, draw wages from another, and have his contract held by a third. When injury occurs, responsibility becomes a hot potato passed between hands, while the injured languishes”.

Proposed reforms, she said, include stiffer penalties for defaulters, integration of labour data systems across agencies, and mandatory ECS clearance as a prerequisite for oil and gas contracts and renewals.

Infrastructure plays a vital role in the economic development of a nation. It encompasses the fundamental physical structures and facilities necessary for economic activity, including transportation networks

The post Infrastructure as game changer for economic growth appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

OPay, Africa’s leading financial technology company, has reaffirmed its vision to be the most respected and popular financial technology company that actively creates social value, with a mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology...

The post OPay celebrates scholarship impact, unveils CyberLabs at Empowering Futures 2025 appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has entered a strategic partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to identify, monitor and freeze digital wallets linked to illicit financial activities,

The post SEC collaborates with CBN, EFCC against fraudulent digital wallets appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

Civil-society organisations under the aegis of Coalition of Civil Rights Activists, have said the 15 percent fuel tariff imposed by the federal government, which begins from January 2026, will end scarcity and fake petroleum products.

The organisation lauded President Bola Tinubu for approving the import duty on refined petroleum products, describing the policy as “a watershed decision in the annals of Nigeria’s history” that will finally put an end to the dumping of sub-standard fuels and the perennial scarcity that has plagued the nation for decades.

The organisation, through its convener, Mr Agabi Emmanuel, Sunday, said the tariff was not a revenue-grab but a “strategic lever” to shield Nigeria’s budding domestic refineries from predatory under-pricing by foreign importers.

“This 15% duty will stop the flood of fake, adulterated products that have destroyed engines, polluted our air and endangered lives,” Emmanuel declared.

“It will also guarantee steady supply because local refineries—Dangote, Port Harcourt, Warri, Kaduna—will now run at full throttle without fear of being undercut by smuggled or below-cost imports.”

Reading from a 23-point communiqué titled “Full Text of Speech by the Coalition of Civil Rights Activists to Laud Mr President on the 15% Petroleum Import Tax”, the coalition insisted that short-term price adjustments at the pump are a small price to pay for long-term energy sovereignty.

Emmanuel dismissed critics who label the policy “pro-monopoly,” stressing that regulatory safeguards already exist to prevent any single player from dominating the market.

“This is about structural transformation, not favoritism,” he said.

The coalition urged the National Assembly to fast-track social compensation packages, including targeted tax relief and cash transfers to cushion vulnerable households.

It also called on the Presidency to publish a transparent implementation timetable and revenue-allocation framework within 14 days.

In a direct appeal to opposition parties, Emmanuel said: “Join hands with Mr President to bury the subsidy ghost forever.

“History will judge those who choose partisan point-scoring over national rebirth.”

International partners were not left out.

The group invited the World Bank, AfDB and technical agencies to provide concessional loans and training to maximise the policy’s upside.

The convener hailed President Tinubu as “a seer, a unifier, a master strategist and a compassionate leader who truly cares for his people.” He closed with a rallying cry: “Nigerians, remain patient, remain vigilant, remain engaged. From dependence to dignity—that is the promise of this 15% tariff.”

To reach more underserved communities, Ashoka Africa has expanded its Changemaking Education (CTEACH) Network with 102 graduates and 400 new inductees in Lagos.  

The post Underserved communities: Ashoka expands CTEACH network in Lagos appeared first on The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.

The Health Anti-Corruption Project Advisory Committee (HAPAC) has expressed concern that corruption and mismanagement are eroding the impact of over N110 billion ($68.3 million) invested by the Federal Government in Nigeria’s primary healthcare system since 2018.

The group said despite the huge investments through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), weak accountability and unethical practices had hindered the fund’s ability to improve healthcare delivery, particularly for the poor and vulnerable.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Chairperson of HAPAC, Dr. Idris Muhammad, said the committee fully supported the recent call by the Minister of Health, Professor Mohammed Pate, for stronger anti-corruption mechanisms following the latest disbursement of N32.9 billion ($22 million) to over 13,000 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) nationwide.

Dr. Muhammad noted that recent findings by HAPAC revealed several corrupt practices within the BHCPF’s implementation, including collusion between community monitors and facility officers to divert funds, facility managers using single receipts to access funds from multiple gateways, and falsification of community stakeholders’ signatures to withdraw funds without their consent.

“These unethical practices are diminishing the intended impact of the BHCPF, which was designed to strengthen service delivery and ensure access to quality healthcare for Nigeria’s poorest citizens,” Dr. Muhammad said.

Also speaking, Professor Obinna Onwujekwe, who convenes the committee, said HAPAC’s investigations uncovered cases where state primary healthcare development agencies (SPHCDAs) directed facility managers on how to spend funds and even provided specific bank accounts for payments—actions that violate the BHCPF’s operational guidelines.

He added that some SPHCDAs procure medicines for PHCs without following national procurement laws, thereby undermining transparency and accountability in fund utilisation.

HAPAC’s Deputy Chairperson, Dr. Tarry Asoka, stressed the need for facilities to have secure, discreet channels to report cases of overreach or interference by state health agencies.

“The integrity of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund depends on empowering facilities to speak up without fear,” Asoka stated.

To curb corruption in the fund, HAPAC recommended the creation of direct reporting links between PHCs and anti-corruption officials at both the Federal Ministry of Health and relevant national anti-corruption agencies.

Other proposed measures include training and retraining of health workers on procurement ethics, strict penalties for guideline violations, and centralising medicine procurement to ensure transparency and eliminate counterfeit drugs.

HAPAC reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, civil society, and the media to promote transparency in Nigeria’s health sector.

“The BHCPF remains one of the most promising tools for improving Nigeria’s health system, but its success depends on integrity, accountability, and strict adherence to due process,” the statement added.

HAPAC is a coalition of professionals drawn from academia, civil society, the media, anti-corruption agencies, and healthcare practitioners, working to expose and address corruption within the health sector through evidence-based advocacy.

Traditional leaders of Oguta, in the Oguta local government area of Imo State yesterday announced the abolition of the outcast (Ohu) system, which was a source of social stigma and marginalisation among survivors in Igbo land.

The age-long osu caste system had for decades restricted persons born into such families from holding traditional positions nor marrying those considered free born.

Chief Nduka Oduenyi, the Ogana (spokesman/assistant) of the traditional ruler of Oguta, Eze Nnani Eze-Eyiche, proclaimed the abolition on behalf of the traditional ruler in Oguta on Sunday in Oguta.

Oduenyi said the abolition was achieved through concerted and courageous efforts of the Oguta Ohu Eradication Dialogue Group (OOEDG) — a coalition of distinguished sons and daughters of the ancient town.

Ogana while addressing the people which included representatives of religious and traditional institutions said they had through dialogue, advocacy, and community engagements paved  the way for consensus on the abolition.

He said, “The long-standing Ohu caste system — a practice widely regarded as discriminatory and inconsistent with human dignity no longer exists in Oguta going forward. Today marks a historic moment of renewal and unity for the Oguta community.

“For generations, the Ohu caste system perpetuated social division, stigma, and injustice. It marginalised individuals and families, restricting social interaction, marriage, and participation in community affairs.

“Many have long viewed its continuation as a stain on Oguta’s collective conscience — one that contradicts both modern values and the core principles of human equality”, he said.

According to him, sons and daughters of Oguta can now freely inter-marry with no one ever referring to anyone again as an outcast even as he warned against any further discriminations.

The Ogana expressed gratitude to members of the OOEDG for their efforts and patience in ensuring that the age-long backward practice was brought to end in the community.

On his part, the chairman of OOEDG, Chief Mike Ogbonna, expressed joy that their dream to abolish the controversial system that fostered discrimination and pain was achieved.

He said “it took efforts of so many of us, both in the diaspora and people in Nigeria and also in Oguta, to achieve this. This issue has transcended generations and it is not a small feat to see it happen.

“The outcaste system has seen several hearts broken, some committed suicide, because the caste system denied people of some rights like taking traditional titles, all because some people in the olden days tagged them outcastes.

“It is a system that as educated people, we consider abominable and therefore, came together to insist that it should not go on in this 21st century. I say a huge thank you to all Oguta sons and daughters. If this is all we achieved for our town in this generation, then we are fulfilled”, Ogbonna said.

A Catholic Priest, who is also a member of OOEDG, Prof. Lawrence Okwuosa, told the people that with the public proclamation, all forms of caste distinction have been abolished across Oguta, saying every Oguta indigene is equal before God and are now equal before man.

Prof Okwuosa said “Today, they are officially recognised as free, equal, and fully integrated into the life of the community. This bold step is expected to foster unity, restore human dignity, and create the social harmony necessary for greater Oguta progress and development”.

He stated that the discriminatory caste system was saddening, and called for the abolition of all forms of discrimination and marginalisation in Igbo land.

The cleric noted that Igbos travel to other climes and marry there but regretted that the practice was among relatives to discriminate against their people.

According to him, survivors of the outcaste system were merely offsprings of those whose parents were given out either for money or other reasons.

The cleric said “when these people can no longer repay the loans, that child is now seen as sold and automatically becomes the owners’ slave including their generations,” he explained.

Rev Fr Okwuosa appealed to all traditional rulers in Igbo land to take the bold step and join in eradicating all forms of caste systems that have held their people bondage for decades.

The proclamation was witnessed by the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Lucius Ugorji, who was represented by Rev. Fr. Basil Nze, and the Anglican Bishop of Oguta diocese, Bishop Chijoke Otti, represented by Mr Okwaraeze, and other religious denominations.

Also present at the abolishment ceremony were traditional title holders and representatives of various kindreds in Oguta, and prominent sons and daughters of the ancient town from across the world, among others.

With the abolishment of the caste system, everyone in Oguta is now free to hold traditional positions and inter-marry.

Senator Yakubu Lado Danmarke and his friends have donated N220 million to the Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom in the Irepodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

This is despite Hajiya Zainab Yakubu Lado, the Chief Executive Officer of Lado Development Foundation, having pledged to offer a 5-year scholarship to indigent students of Iyin-Ekiti.

While Senator Danmarke donated N200m, his friends contributed N20m.

The Oluyin   of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Ajakaiye, conferred the chieftaincy title of Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Iyin Kingdom on Senator Danmarke and his wife, Hajiya Zainab Yakubu Lado, respectively.

Senator Lado, the 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the opposition PDP in Katsina State, is a philanthropist who is investing heavily in youth, education, health, and social development across the 34 local government areas of Katsina State and beyond.

The former national assembly member, through the Lado Development Foundation, has provided scholarships to hundreds of students in tertiary institutions across different states in the country, while also covering examination fees for students taking the senior secondary school examinations.

The Ekiti monarch stated that the conferment was a recognition of the Senator and his wife’s long-standing years of service to humanity and their relationship with the Iyin Kingdom.

‘Kabiyesi believes in rewarding hard work and appreciating persons who have distinguished themselves, especially in the areas of providing service to humanity. The duo of Senator Lado and his wife, Hajiya Zainab, stand out in this regard, hence the recognition”, a palace source said.

Speaking at the formal installation on Saturday, November 1, at the palace of the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, as part of the activities marking the 2025 Iyin Day Celebration, the 7th amalgamated anniversary, and the 5th coronation anniversary of the Iyin monarch, Senator Danmarke reaffirmed his commitment to education and humanitarian services.

He stated that the donation was part of the Yakubu Lado Foundation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that advance humanity, assuring that concerted efforts would be made to enhance humanitarian services.

Danmarke, who thanked the Ekiti monarch for the recognition, said the honour would spur him to do more.

The Chartered Institute of Management and Leadership (CIML) USA – Nigerian Chapter is set to convene its 2025 Annual National Conference in Abuja.

The annual conference will also feature Grand Induction, and Leadership Excellence Award Gala.

Themed “One Nigeria, Shared Vision: Transformational Leadership, Women Inclusion, and National Cohesion for Sustainable Development,” the conference will prioritise discussions on visionary leadership, inclusivity, and innovation as crucial pillars for sustainable governance in Nigeria.

The event will be chaired by prominent figures including His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi,Ooni of Ife and Chancellor of CIML Nigeria; Prof. Olu Aina, Pro-Chancellor, CIML Nigeria; and Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Baba, FCIML, Chairman of the National Steering Committee for the conference.

High-level dignitaries expected to attend include governors such as Mallam Umar Namadi, governor of Jigawa State, Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, and Hon. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State.

Traditional rulers like HRH Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, Emir of Gombe, and HRH Alhaji Yunusa Danyaya Mohammed Danyaya, Emir of Ningi will also participate.

Key federal government representatives, including Hon. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Minister of Environment, and Hon. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, are slated to attend.

Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Baba stated that the conference seeks to “ignite a new national consciousness anchored on integrity, inclusion, and transformational leadership for a united Nigeria.”

Participants are expected to arrive on Sunday, 7th December, with the conference running through to Tuesday, 9th December 2025.

This gathering promises to be a pivotal platform for leaders across sectors to collaborate on advancing national unity and sustainable development through transformative leadership.

Networking isn't just about making connections – it's about building relationships that can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and growth. Here are some key tips for mastering networking within the Nigerian business community:

1. Strategic Event Attendance: Choose networking events wisely, focusing on those that align with your industry, interests, and goals. Look for conferences, seminars, trade shows, and industry-specific gatherings where you're likely to meet like-minded professionals and potential collaborators.

2. Elevator Pitch Perfection: Craft a concise and compelling elevator pitch that succinctly communicates who you are, what you do, and what sets you apart. Practice delivering it confidently so that you can make a memorable impression in any networking setting.

3. Genuine Engagement: Approach networking with authenticity and a genuine interest in getting to know others. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and find common ground to foster meaningful connections. Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just collecting business cards.

4. Utilize Social Media: Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to expand your professional network and stay connected with industry peers. Share valuable insights, engage with relevant content, and participate in online discussions to establish your presence and credibility.

5. Follow Up Relentlessly: Don't let valuable connections slip through the cracks. Follow up promptly after networking events with personalized messages expressing gratitude for the conversation and expressing your interest in staying in touch. Offer value by sharing relevant resources or insights that demonstrate your expertise and willingness to contribute.

6. Give Before You Receive: Approach networking with a mindset of generosity and reciprocity. Look for ways to offer assistance, support, or valuable connections to others without expecting immediate returns. Building goodwill within your network can lead to unexpected opportunities down the line.

7. Diversify Your Network: Seek out networking opportunities beyond your immediate industry or circle. Embrace diversity in your connections, including professionals from different backgrounds, industries, and perspectives. A diverse network can offer fresh insights, innovative ideas, and new opportunities for collaboration.

8. Be Persistent and Patient: Building a robust network takes time and effort, so don't get discouraged by setbacks or slow progress. Stay persistent in your networking efforts, consistently showing up, following up, and nurturing relationships over time. The seeds you plant today may blossom into fruitful opportunities in the future.

In the vibrant landscape of Nigerian business, exceptional customer service isn't just a nicety – it's a competitive advantage that can set your brand apart. Here are some strategies to elevate your customer service game:

1. Listen Attentively: Encourage your team to actively listen to customer feedback, whether it's positive or negative. Every comment is an opportunity to learn and improve.

2. Respond Promptly: In today's fast-paced world, timely responses are crucial. Aim to address customer inquiries and concerns as quickly as possible, even if it's just to acknowledge receipt and provide a timeline for resolution.

3. Empower Your Team: Equip your employees with the authority and resources they need to resolve issues on the spot. Trusting your team to make decisions empowers them to provide better service and fosters a sense of ownership.

4. Personalize Interactions: Treat each customer as an individual with unique needs and preferences. Use their name, remember past interactions, and tailor your approach to make them feel valued and appreciated.

5. Go the Extra Mile: Surprise and delight your customers by exceeding their expectations. Whether it's a handwritten thank-you note, a small gift, or a personalized recommendation, little gestures can leave a lasting impression.

6. Be Transparent: Honesty and transparency build trust. If something goes wrong, acknowledge the mistake, apologize sincerely, and outline the steps you're taking to rectify the situation.

7. Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess your customer service processes and solicit feedback from both customers and employees. Look for areas where you can streamline operations, eliminate pain points, and enhance the overall experience.

Remember, exceptional customer service isn't just about resolving complaints – it's about building meaningful relationships that keep customers coming back for more. By prioritizing service excellence, you can cultivate a loyal customer base and drive long-term success for your business in Nigeria.

1. Follow industry influencers, blogs, and publications to stay informed about the latest trends.
2. Experiment with new marketing channels and tactics to reach your target audience.
3. Analyze your competitors' marketing strategies to identify opportunities and avoid pitfalls.
4. Continuously test and optimize your marketing campaigns based on data and customer feedback.
5. Attend industry events, conferences, and webinars to network and learn from experts.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for personal well-being and business success. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Time Management: Implement effective time management techniques, prioritizing tasks and setting boundaries to ensure a healthy balance.
• Stress Management: Manage stress through exercise, meditation, and other relaxation techniques, ensuring you remain focused and productive.
• Self-Care: Prioritize self-care, ensuring you get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that promote personal well-being.
• Delegation: Delegate tasks and responsibilities to trusted team members, freeing up time for personal and professional growth.
• Support Network: Build a strong support network, including family, friends, and colleagues, to provide emotional and practical support.

Starting a graphic design studio in Nigeria can be a lucrative venture for creative professionals. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you launch your graphic design studio:

1. Skills and Training: Develop strong graphic design skills through formal education or self-study. Familiarize yourself with design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, and stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
2. Business Planning: Create a detailed business plan outlining your graphic design studio's concept, target market, services, pricing strategy, and marketing approach. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your business.
3. Legal Requirements: Register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to operate legally. Obtain necessary permits and licenses required for graphic design businesses in Nigeria to ensure compliance with regulations.
4. Space and Equipment: Determine whether you will operate from a physical studio or work remotely. If operating from a physical studio, secure a suitable space and invest in necessary equipment, such as computers, printers, and software.
5. Service Offerings: Develop a range of graphic design services tailored to your target market, such as branding, print design, digital design, and web design.
6. Client Acquisition: Develop a sales and marketing strategy to attract clients. Utilize social media platforms, local community events, word-of-mouth referrals, and partnerships with businesses to reach potential clients.
7. Client Relationships: Focus on building strong relationships with your clients. Engage with them regularly, solicit feedback, and address any concerns promptly to maintain a positive reputation.
8. Professional Development: Continuously improve your skills and knowledge by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to provide the best possible service to your clients.
9. Financial Management: Implement sound financial practices to track expenses, manage cash flow, and price your services competitively. Monitor your business's performance and adjust strategies as needed to optimize profitability.

One of the easiest and cheapest cottage agric businesses you can start without stress is a catfish smoking business.

There are several catfish farmers in Nigeria today, so getting catfish to smoke is not a problem. All you need to start this business is skill and determination.

You don’t have to be a catfish farmer, you might not even have an idea of how fish grows but you can make big money smoking fish for fish farmers.

This is a business for both fish farmers and non-fish farmers.

Smoking fish can be easy if you follow some basic steps.

The four basic steps in smoking fish are :cleaning, curing, smoking and drying.

Tips on smoking catfish

The first step in your fish smoking business is to obtain some fresh fish.

If it doesn’t look FRESH or smell FRESH or feel FRESH, it probably isn’t, and it will make your finished product taste bad.

Use fresh fish.
Smoking will not hide old fish. The quality will be reflected.

Catfish harvest is categorize into two namely; melange (unit weight between 300g-600g) and table size (600g-above),the price/kg of melange is sold for N600 and above N800 and above for table size as at today.

The pocket size of your target audience will determine the type in terms of size of fish to smoke.

After harvesting (as a farmer) or purchasing (as a non farmer) your fresh catfish, put them in a container and add a reasonable amount of cooking salt and cover the container with a lid and place a heavy object on the lid to prevent the fish from getting out of the container.

Leave for about 30 minutes after which all the fish must have been dead then you can start the steps mentioned above.
CLEANING

•     clean fish, removing the gills and intestine.

•     Wash in clean water.

BRINE AND CURE

what is brine?  Basically, brine is salt and water.

Soaking the fish in brine will achieve a few things:

•    It will firm up the flesh to be less mushy.

•    It will draw out any old blood, which will improve the taste.

•    It will add some saltiness to the fish in the right amounts; this is desired.

•    It will add some additional flavoring to the fish.

•    The cure will ensure that we are protected from the deadly botulism bacteria, especially since this is a relatively low temperature cooking environment.

(Brine recipe • 1/2 gallon good clean spring water • 3/4 cup kosher salt (or plain salt, but not iodized salt)

SMOKING AND DRYING
•     Prepare smoker.  Too much smoke will cause the fish to taste bitter. Use just enough wood to maintain a steady smoke. There are various kinds of oven. We shall discuss that in another article.

Click to read more https://catfishpreneur.wordpress.com/2018/09/20/how-to-start-a-smoked-fish-business/#:~:text=The%20four%20basic%20steps%20in,%2C%20curing%2C%20smoking%20and%20drying.&text=The%20first%20step%20in%20your,Use%20fresh%20fish.

The Nigeria International Agricultural Expo NIAEXPO 2024 is set to be a groundbreaking event that will bring together key players in the agricultural industry from around the world. This expo will serve as a platform for showcasing the latest innovations technologies and practices in agriculture.

NIAEXPO 2024 aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers researchers policymakers and industry experts. It will provide a unique opportunity for participants to network learn about new trends in agriculture and explore potential business opportunities.

URBANPARTY 6.0 hosted by URBANDRINKS.NET marks our sixth edition—a quarterly event bringing together top-tier professionals executives and visionaries across industries. Our goal is to cultivate connections share ideas and spark innovative collaborations. Previous editions have welcomed over 1600 guests featuring EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC, CAPTIVATING ART EXHIBITION, INVIGORATING DANCE, PRODUCTIVE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES all complemented by your favorite WINE and SPIRITS.

The Huawei IdeaHub Experience is an event that introduces tecnology on another level to the corporate world. The event encompasses different kinds of solutions like Smart School Solutions, Board Room Solutions, etc.

SewMeExpo, where Fashion and Art meet. Over 200 Fashion Designers under 1 roof and over 10,000 clients. 

NIGERIA GOLDEN HEARTS AWARD, recognizes and celebrate the achievements of women who leads, inspire, motivate and generally impact on the Society directly or indirectly, women who uses their influence or work space to make a difference in the society.
It also celebrates women of great minds from diverse industries, Women who knows how to balance their home and work space.

LinkedInLocal events are organic meetups, hosted by members all over the world. They provide the platform and opportunity for networking, community building, learning, industry trends, deals making and sharing best practices for using LinkedIn.
Since 2019, LinkedInLocal Abuja has been the biggest networking event for LinkedIn users in the Abuja metropolis, hosting business leaders, public sector executives, young and old professionals, entrepreneurs and all.
It's about making momentous conversations and meaningful connections.
To register: https://braveiconsglobal.com/linkedinlocalabj.html

Make the Zuma Kids FunRun your family tradition!
The course begins at Area 1 Bridge and ends at the Old Parade Ground Area 10 and includes scenic views along nearby residential streets. The race will begin at 9:00 am. The race will conclude with other activities, including local merchants, food trucks, kids’ zone, music and a festive atmosphere etc.

Whether you're a food vendor, guest, food competitor looking to showcase your culinary skills, sponsor, partner, collaborator, or volunteer, UFF is the place to be.
Experience loads of fun activities such as music, game shows, raffle draws, cooking competitions, seminars, and masterclasses at an affordable price. Indulge in delicious food at discount prices and explore fresh produce also available at discounted prices. 

'The Zone' is hosting a games fest on the 26th of May and it's a get together for adults to play a variety of amazing games, socialise, and have an awesome experience! So, if you're a dedicated gamer, looking for a day of excitement, or just looking for an opportunity to defeat your friends in multiple rounds of games and likely win CASH PRIZES and GIFT ITEMS - this event is for you! Come with your friends, play some awesome games, engage in friendly competitions, show off your gaming skills and earn some bragging rights amongst your friend group!

Lagos Freedom Fest 2024 is a live music and cultural event organized to celebrate Nigeria's independence and diversity. The event is hosted by Tenstrings Music Institute in collaboration with Freedom Park Lagos.

The event will assemble a minimum of 1000 guests and will run from 5 pm until 9 pm - flagging off with cultural activities during the day and a live concert in the evening.