The United States Army War College has posthumously inducted Nigeria’s late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, into its International Hall of Fame. The induction was announced on Monday at the opening of the Association of the

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Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has asked investors to take advantage of the stable policies, modern infrastructure, safe, and well-planned environment in FCT to grow their investment in Africa.

In a statement signed by the special assistant on Media To FCT minister of State, Austine Elemue, the minister who made the call while speaking at the 2025 Nigeria–Hong Kong–China Business Summit held at the Hong Kong International Conference Centre, said that business climate of Abuja remains conducive for enterprise growth.

Mahmoud reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment, under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, to fostering a business-friendly ecosystem that attracts investments in manufacturing, logistics, and innovation.

She commended the summit’s organisers for crafting a unique platform that bridges continents by linking ideas, investors, policymakers, and innovators.

While highlighting the summit’s theme, “Tapping Nigeria’s Potential: Strategies for Becoming a Leading Manufacturing and Industrial Hub of Africa, The Natural Resources Supply Chain,” Mahmoud underscored Nigeria’s ambitious pivot from a resource-dependent economy towards one driven by production, exports, and value addition.

“Nigeria possesses abundant natural endowments, strategic geography, and a vibrant, entrepreneurial population.

“What is needed now are robust international partnerships to enhance technology transfer, infrastructure growth, and industrial integration along our natural resources supply chain,” she said.

She also applauded the Nigeria of the Year Awards for recognising exemplary Nigerians who have championed excellence in business, governance, and innovation, inspiring confidence in Nigeria’s boundless potential.

Mahmoud expressed hope that the engagements would yield tangible partnerships, strengthen Nigeria-Asia relations, catalyse industrial development, and promote sustainable prosperity.

Worried over the spate of killings in recent times, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly has categorised the state as "no longer safe for citizens.

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has described the violent attack on the headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a threat to democracy, stressing that such developments put democracy under siege.

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A fresh twist emerged on Tuesday in the growing calls for the release of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as 44 serving federal lawmakers from across Nigeria signed a two-page letter urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene and end his prolonged detention.

The lawmakers, drawn from both Northern and Southern regions under the banner of Concerned Federal Lawmakers, appealed to the President to invoke his constitutional authority to secure Kanu’s release and convene an all-inclusive political dialogue to address national grievances and security challenges.

In their resolution, the lawmakers asked President Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) to discontinue Kanu’s prosecution and begin a political process capable of restoring calm, particularly in the South-East.

They argued that previous dialogues with other agitating groups across the country, coupled with multiple domestic and international court decisions in Kanu’s favour, made a political solution both necessary and urgent.

The letter, signed by lawmakers including Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, Hon. Obi Aguocha, Hon. Murphy Osaro, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Mudashiru Lukman, Hon. Paul Nnamechi, Hon. Sunday Cyriacus, Hon. Obed Shehu, Hon. Dominic, Chief Ugwu Emmanuel, Hon. Daniel Asama Ago, Hon. Chike John Okafor, Hon. Emeka Martin Chinedu, Hon. Chimaobi Sam, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Hon. Donatus Matthew, Hon. Ibe Osonwa, Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, Hon. Thaddeus Atta, Hon. Udema H. Okonkwo, Hon. Princess Chinwe Nnabuike, Hon. Kana Nkemkama, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, Hon. Gwachem Maureen, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, Hon. Nwobosi Joseph, Hon. Amobi Godwin, Hon. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Anthony Adepoju, Hon. Dr. Joshua Gana, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Emeka Idu, Hon. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, Hon. Tochukwu Okere, Hon. Benedict Etanabene, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Ngozi Okolie, and Hon. Nnamdiz Ezechi, stressed the need for national healing and de-escalation of tensions in the South-East.

Part of the letter reads: “Dear Mr. President, After a closed door strategic meeting of the following federal lawmakers committed to promotion of national unity and stability; and after extensive consultations across all party lines and different ethnic groups, we hereby wrote and subscribe to this Letter to Mr. President, concerning Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: Driven by the abiding and urgent need for national reconciliation and healing; and Having noted the Federal Government’s open negotiations with militants and different agitating groups in different parts of Nigeria; and in view of the insecurity that has pervaded Southeast since late 2015 and which spiked since 2021; and In the realization of the many domestic court and international tribunal pronouncements in favor of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu; and In the face of the growing national groundswell supporting the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and for the discontinuance of his prosecution.

“We, the within-named federal lawmakers, hereby respectfully and earnestly request our dear President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as follows: To, as soon as practicable, direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to exercise his constitutional powers and discontinue the prosecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu; and To, pursuant to the discontinuance of the prosecution, initiate a constructive dialogue, aimed at seeking a just political solution of the matter.We are grateful to you, our dear President, for Your Excellency’s prompt consideration of our request; and please be assured of our continuing respects for your high office.”

Kanu was first arrested on October 14, 2015, by Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos State. He was granted bail in April 2017 on health grounds but was re-arrested in June 2021 after being extradited from Kenya through a joint effort between Nigerian security agencies and Interpol.

Kanu faces charges including terrorism, treasonable felony, unlawful possession of firearms, and managing an unlawful society, primarily related to his agitation for the secession of Nigeria’s South-East to form an independent Biafra State.

The plenary session of the House of Representatives on Tuesday turned rowdy over attempt to correct the impression that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must compulsorily observe political parties’ convention, congress, conference or meetings.

This followed a motion of personal explanation moved by the member representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo federal constituency of Anambra State, Hon. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe (YPP).

Uzokwe sought the interpretation of the provisions of section 82 of the Electoral Act 2022, which inter-alia says ‘INEC may, with or without prior notice to the political party attend and observe any convention, congress, conference or meeting which is convened by a political party…’

The only Young Progressives Party (YPP) lawmaker in the House intended to correct the notion that INEC must be present at the convention and other meetings of any political party.

Soon after he raised the order of personal matter, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, who presided over the sitting, asked him whether that it was something internal to the House.

But Uzokwe replied in the negative, saying: “it is something that relates to our electoral law, the law that we, in conjunction with Nigerians, that we made to guide our elections and our conducts, not the members,” and the speaker asked him to go ahead.

He said: “When we go out, the impression that people have outside is that INEC must be present at conventions and congresses of party. But it is not in our law. I will take our members to section 82(1) an and it reads: Notice of convention and congresses…”

But Abbas interjected, reminding Uzokwe that the House is in the process of amending the Electoral Act and he should wait till then to raise such issues.

“A session is going to be dedicated very soon to look at, clause by clause, all the relevant provisions and the amendments proposed. So I don’t think, if in the light of what we have before us, we need to discuss anything about Electoral Act, you should wait until when those issues that you are raising are not addressed in the amendments that…

“What I am trying to tell you, by next week, all these areas that are defective, or are seen to be defective, will be brought before us to finalise on them.

“That’s what I’m saying, that any matter on Electoral Act, we should suspend until when we consider the amendments and then we can see whether there is need for us to actually look further into areas that have not been actually addressed.

“I think it is an area that we’ve already agreed, both the Senate and the House, will take a day and it will be done concurrently, concurrently, all the amendments.,” the speaker said.

The more Abbas tried to make the lawmaker step down the matter, the more he equally pushed further, insisting he must be heard.

The back and forth between Speaker Abbas and Hon. Uzokwe as well as Points of Order raised by other members at plenary, made the session rowdy.

Rising on a point of order, the member representing Eleme/Oyigbo/Tai Federal Constituency of Rivers State said a controversial matter could not be entertained under personal explanation.

“By the indulgence of the House and the leave of the Speaker, a member may make a personal explanation, although there will be no question before the House, but no controversial matter may be brought forward or may debate arise upon the explanation.

“Mr. Speaker, this issue is controversial. We cannot act in isolation with the constitution. We cannot,” he said.

Agreeing with the position, Speaker Abbas said: “a matter is controversial or not, unless and until Mr. Speaker deems it so. But what I’m saying is that we should suspend talking about electoral issues since we have a session to discuss exclusively on that, and it is coming very soon.

“I hope, Honourable Ifeanyi, you are taking note of what I have said. We have a session next week when all issues of electoral matters will be discussed comprehensively on this. Mr. Speaker, point of order.”

Hon. Uzokwe replied that, “I have heard you. Mr. Speaker, I have not said what I want to say. It is so serious that it is damaging our reputation outside.”

But, Abbas said: “Please, can you sit down? Be matured, you are a matured person and elderly. You shouldn’t be talking with anger. This is a simple issue. You should be matured enough to know that this is a serious place. It is not a place for us to be exhibiting our own anger or temper over simple issues.”

In his intervention, Hon. Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi from Lagos State reminded the Speaker and the entire House that the matter raised by Uzokwe was a constitutional matter and he should be allowed speak out.

“Mr. Speaker, I am looking at the constitutional issues. When an issue comes before this House, and it is a constitutional issue, I am looking at Section 4 of the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, I am seeking your protection… This is a ground rule of the Constitution that brought us here. Standing law is a subsidiary legislation. Therefore, the Constitution supersedes the standing order…the issues that were raised by Honourable Ifeanyi is an issue of law, and the House has the right to hear him out. That is my position, Mr. Speaker.”

Abbas replied that, “nobody is saying that Honourable Ifeanyi does not have the right to speak on this subject matter, but my appeal to him was that rather than discussing about this issue, we should wait for the Deputy Speaker who is going to bring before the Parliament a comprehensive amendment on Electoral Act.”

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a two-nation visit to Johannesburg, South Africa, and Luanda, Angola.

According to a statement by Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday evening, President Tinubu’s first stop is Johannesburg, where he will attend the 20th summit of the G20 Leaders. After the summit, he will proceed to Angola for the AU-EU summit.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, the South African leader who also serves as the current President of the G20 group, invited his Nigerian counterpart to participate in this year’s edition. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil had during his Presidency of the group in 2024, equally invited President Tinubu to Rio de Janeiro.

The Summit, scheduled to take place from Saturday, November 22, to Sunday, November 23, at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, brings together leaders from the world’s top 20 economies, including the European Union (EU), the African Union (AU), and financial institutions, among others.

Themed ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,’ the two-day summit will afford participants the opportunity to deliberate extensively during three plenary sessions devoted to: Inclusive and Sustainable Growth, Leaving No One Behind: Building our economies, the role of trade, Financing for development and the Debt burden; A Resilient World-the G20’s Contribution to Disaster Risk Reduction; Climate Change; Just Energy Transitions; Food Systems and A fair and Just Future for All: Critical Minerals; Decent Work; Artificial Intelligence.

“President Tinubu is also expected to hold bilateral meetings during the Summit in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda, as well as to discuss regional and international peace, security, and development.

“At the conclusion of the G20 Summit, the Nigerian President will join other Heads of State and Government from the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) for the 7th meeting of the two bodies, scheduled to take place from November 24 to 25, 2025, in Luanda, Angola.

“The AU and EU meeting will bring together young leaders, innovators and Civil Society Organisations to brainstorm on some of the shared challenges of the two unions. It will also provide recommendations on how to address issues related to climate change, inclusivity in development, infrastructure, the digital economy, the creative industry, manufacturing, and agribusiness.

“President Tinubu will be accompanied by top government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, Minister of Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole and the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.”

“The President will return to Nigeria at the end of the two meetings,” the statement said.

The House of Representatives Committee on Nutrition and Food Security on Tuesday intensified its probe into alleged massive diversion and mismanagement of billions of naira allocated to agricultural intervention programmes. Opening the third public hearing in Abuja, Chairman of the

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As part of efforts against malaria, Diaspora Solution Group Nigeria is set to launch a groundbreaking malaria attenuation project, Research to Curb Female Anopheles Mosquito Breeding.

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Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday, inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to investigate the widespread abandonment of Federal Government properties nationwide, warning that the era of allowing national assets to decay is over. The committee,

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In Lagos, where creativity moves to its own rhythm, Glenfiddich redefined what luxury in motion can look like. Over two days in November, the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky celebrated its global partnership with the Aston Martin Formula

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The United States has begun distributing a groundbreaking HIV-prevention treatment to two African nations, marking a significant step forward despite sweeping cuts to global health aid by President Donald Trump.

The new injectable drug, Lenacapavir, has been delivered to Eswatini and Zambia, with 1,000 doses set to be administered this week, according to Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

US State Department aid coordinator, Jeremy Lewin, said Washington plans to finance two million doses for low- and middle-income African countries, with a target date of 2028, though the goal may be achieved as early as mid-2027.

Lenacapavir manufactured by US pharmaceutical giant Gilead Sciences requires only two injections per year, offering a major advantage over daily PrEP pills. Health experts say the drug could dramatically reduce new HIV infections, especially among pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Gilead CEO, Daniel O’Day, disclosed that plans were underway to expand distribution to Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Namibia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, describing the rollout as historic. “This is the first time medication is being given in Africa in the same year it was approved in the US,” he said.

The development comes as global health researchers warn of severe consequences linked to recent aid cuts. A new study released Monday predicts 22.6 million preventable deaths by 2030 due to reduced US and European funding.

Despite global progress, with new HIV infections dropping by 40 per cent since 2010, UNAIDS projects 1.3 million new cases in 2024, underscoring the urgent need for sustained prevention efforts.

The United Kingdom has expanded its travel safety advisory, adding 11 more countries, including Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea and Rwanda, to its methanol poisoning watchlist amid rising global cases linked to contaminated alcoholic drinks.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said the update followed a surge in reported incidents worldwide.

The latest additions come weeks after Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda were listed, following several high-profile deaths, including six tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travellers have been cautioned that even minimal amounts of methanol can trigger blindness or death within 12 to 48 hours. Methanol, an industrial alcohol found in products like antifreeze and paint thinner, is sometimes illicitly mixed into alcoholic beverages to reduce production costs. It is odourless and tasteless, making it impossible for consumers to detect.

Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer urged travellers to remain vigilant.

“If you’re drinking spirits overseas, stick to trusted places and avoid homemade alcohol or free shots,” he warned. “If something feels off—like a hangover far worse than usual or vision problems—seek medical help immediately.”

The FCDO is currently running a global awareness campaign on identifying symptoms and reducing the risks of methanol poisoning.

Countries now flagged by the UK for methanol-related risks included Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.

Indications have emerged of how security operatives allegedly ignored credible intelligence by the Department of State Services (DSS), which could have prevented the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu local government area of Kebbi State.

This is even as Kebbi State governor, Mohammed Nasir Idris, on Monday night, fumed over what he described as failure to act on credible intelligence from the DSS.

Recall that suspected gunmen had in the wee hours of Monday attacked the school, reportedly shooting dead the vice principal and kidnapping 25 female students. Three of the students, however, managed to escape from their abductors.

Security sources, who spoke to LEADERSHIP on Tuesday, said that Governor Idris, who arrived at the school at about 6.45pm on Monday, accused unnamed security agencies of sabotaging security efforts made by his administration.

“This is clear sabotage. We got credible intelligence from the DSS (Department of State Services) that this school was likely to be attacked. DSS further advised that we convene an emergency Security Council meeting, which we did. And the decision was that we would provide round-the-clock protection for the students,” said the governor.

The governor said the he took the DSS report seriously, bearing in mind that the failure to dutifully use a similar intelligence led to the December 2020 kidnap of over 300 pupils of a school in Kankara, Katsina State.

The governor lamented that deployments were made to secure the school. The heavily-armed security men spent time taking photographs with the students, only to abandon them 30 minutes before the attack.

Meanwhile, the governor, who was accompanied by security chiefs in the state, announced the setting up of a special investigation panel to unravel how, despite the DSS intelligence, and efforts by the state government, the kidnappers still struck.

The DSS state director of Kebbi State will head the panel, which will also oversee the safe return of the kidnapped students.

One of the teachers who managed to escape had told journalists that given the several armed uniformed men who were deployed to the school on Sunday, and who spent considerable time interfacing with the students and teachers, teaching them emergency drills, he was shocked at the sad turn of events.

“The heavily-armed security men spent the entire night guarding the school. Sadly, for yet-to-be determined reasons, they reportedly left the school before dawn. About 30 minutes after they withdrew, the kidnappers struck, abducting the students,” the teacher had stated.

“I believe it was the accuracy and credibility of the intelligence supplied by the DSS on the school that made Governor Idris appoint their director to head the special committee he set up.

“The good news is that there is sufficient reason to believe that the girls were kidnapped, not killed. With ongoing efforts by the federal and state governments, we are hopeful that they will all be rescued,” he declared.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has dismissed the Federal Government’s proposed 35% salary increment for university teachers, insisting that it fell far below what is required to address years of neglect in the university system.

Lagos Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, Prof. Adesola Nassir, made the position known during a press briefing on Tuesday at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED).

He described the government’s offer as “wretched,” warning that it would still leave Nigerian academics among the lowest-paid in Africa. According to him, the proposed adjustment failed to reflect current economic realities or the professional demands placed on university lecturers.

Nassir argued that the union’s long-standing concerns remained unresolved, stressing that meaningful reform must include significant salary restructuring and a commitment to adequate funding of public universities.

He recalled that under the 2009 agreement, a professor earned the equivalent of about $3,000 monthly — a standard that has since eroded due to inflation and persistent underfunding.

ASUU maintainec that without genuine intervention, the quality and stability of Nigeria’s tertiary education system will continue to deteriorate.

Senators, on Tuesday, erupted in anger over the deadly assault on Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, where gunmen killed a vice principal and abducted about 25 female students.

The lawmakers’ outrage followed a motion raised by Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), prompting a heated debate on the escalating wave of attacks on schools across the country.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio presided over the session, later directing the chamber into a closed-door session to consider sensitive security information.

Senator Ahmad Lawan described the incident as a grave threat to national stability, warning that continued abductions could cost the country its future.

“These children are our future. We have to do everything possible to get them back. Otherwise, the future of Nigeria will be compromised. But time is of the essence to our armed forces,” he cautioned.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) insisted that security cannot be left solely to the Federal Government.

He cited his experience as a former governor to argue that state executives must take firmer responsibility.

“Security should not only be the job of the Federal Government. I have never blamed former President Olusegun Obasanjo while I was a governor. I went out of my way to help Anambra and other states in terms of security,” he stated.

Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) urged security agencies to leverage surveillance technology to track the abductors, noting that the attackers were still on the move with the students.

“This matter is what many people don’t want to discuss any more. But it is a matter of national importance. They were taken away and are still being moved around. So we urge security agencies to deploy their technology to find them,” he said.

Senator Solomon Lalong (Plateau South) criticised the effectiveness of the World Bank–supported Safe School programme, which he said has failed to protect students despite heavy investments.

“What has the girl child done to Nigeria? What is wrong with the Safe School programme funded by the World Bank? This is the same fate that befell our Chibok girls. It should be treated as a matter of national security before it turns into another Chibok experience,” he warned.

Reacting to lawmakers’ contributions, Senate President Akpabio condemned the attack and called for a united national response to protect schoolchildren.

“The Senate condemns this dastardly act, especially violence against our children. We urge the FG and security agencies to apprehend these criminals and rescue our children without delay,” he said.

He also raised concerns about the logistics used by the attackers, hinting that such information would form part of deliberations at the forthcoming national security summit.

“When we talked about these students being abducted, what did they use to convey them? It is important to get the views of Nigerians to be compiled for our security summit,” Akpabio added.

Senators observed a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased vice principal before the chamber proceeded into a closed-door session.

Nigeria has endured a persistent pattern of deadly attacks on schools, especially across the North, resulting in mass abductions, killings, and long-term disruption of education.

LEADERSHIP earlier reported that gunmen stormed Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in the early hours of Monday, killing a vice principal and abducting several students. A school guard was injured during the assault.

Security agencies, including the military and police, have since launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation to locate the abductors and secure the release of the missing students.

The governments of Northern states have been challenged to strengthen forces to protect multi-billion naira national critical infrastructure against vandals and criminal-minded tendencies in their states. Convener of the Public Enlightenment Movement Project (PEMP), Nuhu Abdullahi, made the appeal while

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Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Wisdom Ikuli, has taken a swipe at persons he alleged were hiding behind old sentiments to fight the state governor, Senator Douye Diri. He said one thing

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The Gender Educators Initiative (GEI) has urged the Federal Government to move swiftly to secure the safe release of schoolgirls abducted from Government Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The organisation described the incident as

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The House of Representatives has called on President Bola Tinubu to explore a new strategy to end the killings, kidnapping and other acts of banditry activities in Zamfara State and the country at large.

This followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency
of Zamfara state, Hon. Kabiru Amadu, at plenary on Tuesday.

Moving the motion, Amadu declared that considering the unending security challenges in Zamfara State and across the country, it’s apt to state that “the government has not done enough to secure the lives and properties of Nigeria to enable them to go about their everyday life.”

He informed that heavily armed bandits stormed and operated in parts of Zamfara where they killed over 10 people, abducted 130 people and impose high tax amounting to N100m on those vulnerable communities.

Amadu said the bandits conducted their criminal operation riding on motorcycles with no less than two to three of them on each motorcycle moving from one community to another for complete two to three weeks fully armed without any practical and reliable challenge from security agencies.

He expressed worry that, “the demand for N100 million in taxes is not only unjust but also unattained for a population already suffering from the loss of life and properties, who their primary economic activities are small-scale farming and petty trades both of which have been severely affected by the ongoing violence that pushes the communities into deep poverty and despair.

“This crisis has created dire humanitarian situation with residents lacking access to basic needs such as food, healthcare and security; fear prevails as communities live under the threat of further attacks and demands for ransom.

“The above-mentioned killings are just few examples of many killings and kidnapping that have taken place only within one month in my constituency,” he lamented.

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 entire staffs and management of Zonicme LTD invites the general public and arts lovers to their upcoming event "SIP AND PAINTS" which is scheduled to take place on the 03/12/2025.

Access is free. Plan, Prepare to attend. 

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!