Category: Auto Guid

By Busayo Onijala

The United Kingdom and Nigeria have unveiled a new Pound 15 million Growth Programme aimed at unlocking private investment and accelerating economic transformation between them.

The British High Commission made this known in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.

It said the two countries unveiled the initiative during the just concluded two-day visit to Nigeria by the UK’s Minister for Africa and International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman.

According to the statement, Chapman’s visit, spanning Abuja and Kaduna, underscores the breadth and depth of the UKNigeria strategic partnership and marked a significant step toward both countries’ shared priorities.

It said that alongside the growth programme, the UK also announced deeper collaboration on Nigeria’s digital economy through an initiative called the SPRIRET, which is delivered under the UK’s Digital Access Programme.

“SPRIRET will support digital governance reforms across five Nigerian states, reducing regulatory barriers and enabling greater investment and innovation in broadband, digital services and emerging technology,” it said.

Chapman said her visit had reinforced everything she believed about the UKNigeria partnership.

According to her, it is “deep, real, and moving in the right direction.”

“From launching our new Growth Programme with Minister Oyedele, to meeting frontline health workers in Kaduna, every conversation this week has shown me a country full of ambition and a partnership that is genuinely delivering for both sides,” she said.

Mr Taiwo Oyedele, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, said the UK-Nigeria relationship extended beyond traditional ties and was now focused on development, growth, and shared prosperity.

“The UKNigeria Growth Programme helps bring this partnership to life.

“It will support capital market development, technology investment, small businesses, and technical assistance.

“We look forward to seeing how these opportunities deliver lasting benefits and drive progress for both countries,” Oyedele said.

The mission also noted that Chapman met with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, with discussions covering progress under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).

In Kaduna, Chapman met with Gov. Uba Sani to take stock of over 20 years of UKKaduna partnership and explore how cooperation can deepen shared priorities.

(NAN)

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has attributed the persistence of terrorism, insurgency and banditry in the country to the support criminal groups receive from some members of the public.

Speaking at the June 12 edition of The Platform, organised by The Covenant Nation in Lagos and broadcast on Channels Television on Friday, Musa said armed groups continue to operate because they are sustained by individuals living within affected communities.

According to him, terrorists and bandits depend heavily on local assistance for survival, making security operations far more challenging.

“Banditry, insurgency, terrorism. Why does it seem so difficult to deal with it? Perhaps, we have the people that are also encouraging and supporting these things from happening because the terrorists, the bandits, survive around the people.

“There are several stories of how people have aided them in giving them food, giving them water, and giving them information, and these are the things that keep them going, and we call this the oxygen.”

The minister questioned the sources of support available to criminal networks, insisting that many of their resources come from ordinary citizens.

“Who is funding them? Who are those giving them information? Who are those giving them the logistics that keep them going? It is still the people,” he added.

His remarks come against the backdrop of continuing military operations across several parts of the country and growing public concern over recurring attacks.

Nigeria has faced multiple security threats over the past decade. While troops continue to target Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North East, communities in states such as Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna remain under pressure from armed bandits.

Recent incidents have also raised concerns about the spread of terrorist activities beyond traditional hotspots. Last month, gunmen reportedly attacked three schools in Oyo State, abducting more than 40 teachers and students while demanding the release of detained commanders.

Musa said the nature of modern conflict differs significantly from conventional warfare, where opponents were clearly identifiable.

“Conventional warfare in the past used to be state to state, country to country, so you know who your enemy is. The most dangerous aspects of battle or campaign is when the enemy is within,” he said.

He maintained that the efforts of the military and other security agencies can only succeed when citizens actively cooperate by providing information and supporting lawful security measures.

“The armed forces, the security agencies, no matter what they do, if the people are not ready to support, it makes it extremely very difficult,” he said.

The minister urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing that unity is essential to overcoming security challenges.

“We must continue to work in unity because it is these gaps that exist between us that this individual sees and try to expand to separate us and divide us and we must not let that happen,” he said.

Reflecting on Democracy Day, Musa described June 12 as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for democratic governance. He noted that democracy can only flourish where security, responsible leadership, active citizenship and strong institutions exist.

“No democracy can flourish where fear dominates daily life. No democracy can deliver prosperity where violence disrupts communities,” he said.

He further argued that tackling present-day security threats requires more than military action, highlighting the importance of intelligence gathering, technology, cooperation among institutions and citizen involvement.

Musa also warned about the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, saying social media platforms are increasingly being used to spread false narratives that undermine public trust and national cohesion.

He pointed to instability across the Sahel region, particularly in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, as an additional challenge for Nigeria because of the movement of weapons and other cross-border threats.

Calling for stronger collaboration between citizens and government institutions, the minister emphasised that security personnel should not be viewed as adversaries.

“The security forces are not the enemies of the state. In fact, what I always say is that we are all victims,” he said.

He also cautioned against ethnic, religious and political divisions, warning that such fault lines provide opportunities for criminal groups to exploit tensions.

“We are all Nigerians, God doesn’t make mistakes, he has a purpose for putting us together,” he said.

Addressing younger Nigerians, Musa urged them to preserve and strengthen the democratic gains secured by previous generations.

“To our young people, I say this, the generation that fought for June 12th secured democracy. The responsibility of our generation was to secure it, strengthen it, and pass it on stronger than we received it,” he said.

He added that patriotism requires citizens to act responsibly even when there is no recognition or reward.

“Patriotism means doing what is right even when no one is watching,” he said.

Quoting President Bola Tinubu, the minister reiterated the government’s determination to confront insecurity.

“Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists to define who we are as a people.”

Musa concluded by stressing that lasting progress in Nigeria will depend on security, national cohesion and a shared commitment to the country’s future.

By Deborah Akpede

Prominent lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), his son afrobeats singer, Mr Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, alongside civil society organisations, youth groups, among others, on Friday demanded urgent action to address worsening insecurity and economic hardship in the country during a protest they stages in Lagos.

Chanting, the protesters said demonstration was aimed at drawing attention to rising insecurity, economic hardship and policies affecting ordinary Nigerians.

They converged on the Ikeja Under Bridge, carrying placards with inscriptions such as “No Democracy Without Security,” End Bad Governance,” and “End Insecurity and Kidnapping.”

Others include, “End Hunger,” “Free All Captives Now,” “End all anti-people policies now,”

Speaking during the protest, Falana called for the immediate release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, expressing concern over their welfare in captivity.

According to him, the protest is not only about demanding the rescue of the abducted victims but also about highlighting broader issues of injustice, insecurity and poverty confronting Nigerians.

“We are protesting the kidnapping of our children in Oyo State. We are also protesting injustice in our country, a situation whereby innocent school children in Oyo and Borno states have been in the custody of criminals for several weeks now.

“We are also protesting injustice meted out to young people who are regularly arrested on the highways by the police.

“We are protesting hunger and poverty in the land, and we are calling on the government to address these challenges,” he said.

Falana, a human rights advocate, lamented the condition of the abducted children and teachers, and regretted the killing of one of the latter.

He called on the authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the remaining victims.

Also addressing the protesters, Falz bemoaned what he described as worsening insecurity and economic hardship across the country. The entertainer and activist said Nigeria was grappling with increasing cases of kidnappings and killings, urging the government to do more in its responsibility of protecting the citizens.

“Everybody can see the worsening insecurity. It is becoming unbearable,” he said.

Falz cited recent abductions in different parts of the country, including the kidnapping of students and the abduction of a relative of a former minister in Oyo State.

“Every Nigerian life matters and must be protected at all costs,” he stated.

He said that the repeated abduction of students had heightened public frustration and anxiety.

Also speaking, human rights activist, Mr Olumide Ogunsanwo, popularly known as Seaking, called for stronger government action to tackle insecurity across the country.

He said Nigerians were demanding better governance and an end to the growing wave of killings, kidnappings and other violent crimes.

“We say no to insecurity. Insecurity has to end,” he said.

Ogunsanwo urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts against bandits, insisting that decisive action, rather than rhetoric, was needed to end the insecurity.

Security operatives maintained presence around the protest venue and monitored activities throughout the demonstration.

The protest came as Nigeria marked Democracy Day, set aside in remembrance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely acclaimed to have been won by late Chief MKO Abiola.

The election, though regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history, was annulled by the then military government.

(NAN)

By Adejoke Monsurat

The Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has presented letters of permanent appointment to its Teaching Experience Acquisition Channel (Ogunteach) interns following the successful completion of their two-year internship programme.

Addressing the beneficiaries at the Board Secretariat Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the Chairman of the Board, Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, described the occasion as a significant milestone, noting that the teachers had demonstrated dedication, resilience, hard work and commitment throughout their internship period.

Ifede, urged the newly appointed teachers to view their transition into permanent staff as a call to greater responsibility and professionalism. He also commended the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for fulfilling his promise to the teachers.

“Another phase begins today and it requires more dedication, unwavering commitment and hard work, as you are now full-fledged professional teachers, having undergone the necessary training over the past two years,” he said.

He charged the teachers to deliver quality education, introduce innovative ideas and improve the standard of schools they were posted to, while emphasising the need to ensure that every learner under their care could read, write and communicate effectively.

Also speaking, the Permanent Member IV of the Board, Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun, lauded the SUBEB Chairman for his leadership style and charged the teachers to rededicate themselves to improving basic education, while maintaining respect for senior colleagues.

In his remarks, Director, Administration and Supplies, Mr. Femi Fatade, urged the teachers to remain focused, diligent and committed to their careers, saying that their permanent appointment presents an opportunity for career advancement and encourage those with NCE qualifications to upgrade to degree level.

He advised them to register with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), and follow necessary procedures for proper documentation to ensure prompt salary payments.

Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed teachers, Mr. Michael Oladipo from Odeda Local Government and Miss Oluwakemi Odejimi, from Yewa South Local Government, expressed their gratitude to the State Government for the opportunity to serve and for granting them permanent employment.

They pledged their commitment to contributing meaningfully to the development of basic education in Ogun State.

By Isa Isawade

The head of a global vaccine coalition has said that scientists are working at high speed to develop four Ebola vaccines to tackle the outbreak in DR Congo.

Two of the vaccines, according to a report by Semafor, could be ready for clinical trials in two months.

More than 500 cases of the Bundibugyo strain, for which there is no proven vaccine, have been reported in the outbreak, which is concentrated in eastern DR Congo.

Two of the experimental vaccines — one being developed by Oxford University scientists, and another by Moderna — harness technology used to create vaccines for COVID-19 and could be in trials by the end of August.

This was reportedly disclosed by CEO of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, Richard Hatchett.

However, Hatchett cautioned that, even if a vaccine performed well in clinical trials, it would take at least two more months to move to further trials and regulatory approval.

Emanuele Capobianco at global vaccine alliance GAVI, meanwhile, said a proven vaccine would be a “game changer,” but warned in an interview that it was likely “to take several months, potentially years” to end the outbreak.

He reportedly compared it to a 2018 Ebola epidemic in eastern DR Congo which lasted two years, despite there being a vaccine. Health experts say the disease is likely to have circulated, undetected, for weeks in the northeastern Ituri province, where artisanal mining is an economic mainstay.

Malacañang has issued a travel authority allowing Vice President Sara Duterte to embark on overseas travels May 2 to May 15.

Palace press officer Claire Castro confirmed the approval of Duterte’s request to travel to several European and Asian destinations.

Her original itinerary included visits to the Netherlands, South Korea, Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom from April 23 to May 15.

However, her schedule was later adjusted purportedly because of the tardiness of the travel authority.

Castro said she was not privy to the exact date when the Office of the President (OP) approved Duterte’s latest request for a revised travel authority. Based on the previous authorization by the OP, Duterte was permitted to travel ‘while on leave of absence, at no cost to the government.’

In cinema, a MacGuffin is a plot device-an object or a goal-that exists solely to set the story in motion. It is often a detail irrelevant in itself, yet essential to the journey.

For the artist, the ‘MacGuffin’ is the quiet, daily ritual: the discarded sketches, the shifting light in a studio, or the moment of frustration that forces a sudden change in direction.

People often get caught up in the fast-paced rhythm of life, overlooking minute details; yet these details are the silent architects of narratives. ‘MacGuffin Untold’ is an art exhibition dedicated to the ‘in-between’ moments-fragments that seem inconsequential in the grand scheme of things but are instrumental in moving a creator from one point to the next.

Behind the exhibit is Plastiq Zoo, a thriving ecosystem where art and community collide-born of a shared lineage at University of the Philippines Diliman, covering diverse disciplines, such as illustration, advertising, painting, toy design and sculpture.

‘MacGuffin Untold’ will feature the works of Joven Alcala, Nubbin Beldia, Mike D’Arkangel, Erwin Teves-Pascual, Jan Calleja, Candice Arellano, Pam Liban-Sarmiento, and Gelo Bato.

The show will be held at Gallery 119 in Sikatuna, Quezon City, from May 9 to May 31.

Former Kano State governor and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed growing speculation about his political future, stating that no final decision has been taken regarding his next move or that of his associates.

In a statement released amid rising concerns over internal challenges within the ADC, Kwankwaso described circulating reports of a possible realignment as ‘misleading.’

He noted that while the Supreme Court recently affirmed the legitimacy of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), the matter was also remitted to the High Court, leaving the party in what he called a ‘precarious position.’

Kwankwaso further pointed to a Federal High Court ruling that questioned the validity of the party’s recent convention, as well as a move by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, seeking the deregistration of the ADC.

The former Defence Minister explained that his political camp had previously exited the New Nigeria Peoples Party due to legal complications, warning that similar issues now confronting the ADC could not be ignored.

‘As a result, we have initiated broad consultations with key stakeholders, including leaders from the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and others, to determine the most viable path forward,’ he said.

On speculation surrounding a potential presidential bid, Kwankwaso reaffirmed his record of party loyalty and democratic commitment.

He recalled placing second in the 2014 presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) behind former President Muhammadu Buhari, and later supporting the party’s victory.

He also referenced his participation in the 2019 presidential primary of the Peoples Democratic Party, after which he backed eventual candidate Atiku Abubakar and served as a key campaign coordinator in the North.

Kwankwaso stressed that the ADC has yet to decide on zoning or select a presidential candidate, adding that he has neither declared interest in contesting nor endorsed any aspirant.

‘All claims suggesting otherwise are premature and unfounded,’ he stated.

Addressing his absence from recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings, Kwankwaso said it was due to unavoidable personal commitments, noting that he had formally communicated his apologies to party leadership.

He assured supporters that consultations are ongoing and that any definitive decision regarding his political direction would be communicated through official channels at the appropriate time.

The youths of Ode Aye Kingdom in Okitipupa Council Area of Ondo have taken to the streets to celebrate the exciting news that the Old Students Association of Ultimate International High School, Ode-Aye, has obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for Hon. Bidemi Joshua Obayangban, popularly known as OC General.

In a viral video circulating on social media, large numbers of youths were seen beating drums and singing in support of the APC Reps aspirant while carrying placards with various inscriptions such as: ‘Obayangban is our choice’ and ‘Obayangban we know’, ‘Obayangban is better’, among among others.

It was gathered that the community had been unusually quiet and calm since the news of the proposed consensus arrangement surfaced, which did not sit well with the local youths.

One of the youths who spoke to journalists stated, ‘It is clear that Obayangban is the choice of our community. Can’t you hear the drums and feel the excitement of our people? No one was happy in this town after the news of the consensus was announced. We are dissatisfied with that development. This discontent, I believe, inspired Obayangban’s alumni to take action.

‘We are now on the streets celebrating that the nomination form has been obtained for him before the deadline closes’.

The youths under The Sunshine Forum also pledged their support and loyalty to the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo.

They stated that the purpose of the solidarity rally was not to undermine the governor, but rather to express their support for Obayangban. However, they emphasised that the leadership of the APC should address their demands in Ode Aye.

The Old Students Association of Ultimate International High School, Ode-Aye, has secured the APC Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for Hon. Bidemi Joshua Obayangban.

This move is part of the preparations for the party’s primary for the House of Representatives seat in the Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency.

The alumni stated that Obayangban cannot remain passive while other APC aspirants in the federal constituency have opted for direct primaries and rejected the consensus arrangement.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the youths of Ode Aye have announced a donation of one million naira in support of Obayangban’s aspiration, vowing to mobilise all APC members in Ode Aye and across the constituency to support his candidacy, according to Starnews NG’s report.

A businessman by title, but a king by heart, he leads not just with strategy, but with compassion. His wealth is measured beyond profit. It is seen in the innumerable lives touched, vast opportunities created, and hope restored. In boardrooms, he is decisive; in communities, he is generous, using all that the Great Architect of the universe bestowed on him in the furtherance of the cause of culture and its attendant values He gives always; uplifts without seeking applause. Integrity crowns his dealings, and kindness defines his legacy. Where others build empires, he builds people. Truly, he is the king of hearts who is not just respected for his business acumen but cherished in life and adored for the difference he makes every single day.

The street sweepers of Lagos burst into songs of mirth when his name was called because, under the umbrella of The Mike Adenuga Foundation, they found succour.

For over seven decades, Dr. Mike Adeniyi Isola Agbolade Adenuga Jr has walked the earth with a clear conviction: wealth must circulate to fulfil its purpose. Born of the industrious spirit of a businesswoman mother and shaped by the discipline of a teacher father, Adenuga’s life affirms a simple truth – if one desires greatly, one can achieve abundantly, enough to share.

His remarkable journey from trading to commanding heights in banking, oil and gas, telecommunications, and real estate tells a compelling story of resilience and belief in possibility. It is no surprise that Globacom, his flagship enterprise, is anchored on the alliterative creed: people, power, possibilities.

Writing a tribute in celebration of Dr. Michael Agbolade Isola Adeniyi Adenuga Jr., GCON, CSG, is an enduring pleasure like a rich burst of honey upon the palate of the mellivorous.

One of the few in human history to be conferred France’s Commander of the Legion of Honour (Commandeur de la Légion d’honneur), Adenuga stands tall, literally and figuratively, as a beacon of light in a world too often dimmed by uncertainty. The award, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is the third-highest rank of the French National Order of Merit conferred strictly on people of exceptional accomplishments.

This international award sums up Adenuga’s impact, which has crossed the borders of the African continent.

At seventy-three, he towers above his peers not merely as a symbol of success but as a monument of significance. Beyond the annual Forbes listings that measure wealth in dollars, Adenuga’s life is more meaningfully defined by the nation he has helped to build and shape. While many count prosperity in currency and assets, his riches are reckoned in transformed lives, strengthened institutions, and a legacy woven into the very fabric of Nigeria.

He understood early that wealth without purpose is hollow, and success without service is incomplete. Thus, he chose a higher calling; not only to build businesses, but to build people; not merely enterprises, but hope. He became a midwife of dreams, nurturing not just his own destiny, but those of millions connected, directly or indirectly, to his expansive vision.

As an entrepreneur, he created opportunities where few existed. Industries blossomed because he dared to invest-his time, his resources, and his vision. Families flourished because he chose to employ thousands, directly and indirectly. Young minds found direction because he believed in mentorship. His leadership has generated not just profit but progress. His enterprises have become platforms for empowerment, strengthening the economic backbone of the nation. Indeed, infrastructure like the Glo-1 submarine cable has served as a digital spine for education, SMEs, and diverse sectors across Nigeria and beyond.

In turbulent times within the telecommunications sector, he stood firm. He promised to democratise access to telephony, placing phones in the hands of ordinary Nigerians. And, he kept his word. When compromise would have been expedient, he chose principle, championing per-second billing even when it seemed commercially risky. His name commands respect, not out of fear, but out of honour. Where others saw obstacles, he saw opportunity; where others hesitated, he moved with courage. He believed in the potential of his nation, its people, its youth, its future long before such belief became fashionable.

The seeds he planted decades ago have grown into mighty baobabs and kapok trees, offering shade to countless lives. In many instances, they have rewritten destinies, lifting people out of poverty. Like the fast-spreading Creeping Jenny, his fibre-optic investments stretch across oceans and difficult terrains, delivering connectivity and opportunity across vast landscapes.

Yet beyond boardrooms and balance sheets, his greatest wealth lies in his character, his empathy, his quiet generosity, his unmistakable signature of compassion.

Perhaps his most remarkable achievement is balance. He built immense success without losing his humanity and amassed great wealth without surrendering compassion. His philanthropy has touched countless lives-restoring hope to the weary and dignity to the struggling. Stories abound: a father on the brink of withdrawing his child from an overseas school due to financial hardship finds unexpected relief; quiet interventions that restore broken paths. Time and again, Adenuga invests-silently but profoundly in human dignity.

Leaders have emerged under his mentorship. Innovations have flourished through his support.

Families have endured because of his generosity. His influence transcends sectors; it resonates across society. He leads with authority yet remains grounded in humility. His home reflects the same excellence as his enterprises-a sanctuary of love, wisdom, and unity.

The opening image of Lagos street sweepers rejoicing at his name is no isolated anecdote.

Through the Mike Adenuga Foundation, he has uplifted workers long overlooked, equipping many with skills and restoring dignity. Widows and vulnerable women across Nigeria still recall, with gratitude, the generous food relief packages delivered to their homes. His recent donation of ?1 billion to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund underscores his commitment to public safety and institutional strength. This joins a long list of interventions: substantial contributions to the fight against COVID-19, relief for flood victims in Bayelsa State, annual charity initiatives supporting orphanages and the vulnerable, and countless other acts of giving-many deliberately kept out of the public eye.

Seventy-three is more than a milestone; it is a testament to endurance, to lessons learned, to battles, fought, and victories earned. It is the story of a man who has not merely lived through history but helped to shape it.

As the world marks this anniversary of a life gifted to Africa, and indeed to humanity, I join many others not merely to applaud his achievements but to honour his enduring contributions. His life reminds us that true greatness lies not in what we accumulate but in what we give; not in possession, but in impact.

His legacy is not inscribed in gold but in gratitude, in the thankful hearts of a nation touched by his vision and benevolence. His wealth is measured not only in material terms, but in wisdom, integrity, compassion, and an influence so vast that words can scarcely contain it.

And as he steps beyond this platinum milestone, may his influence continue to inspire, his voice continue to guide, and his legacy continue to flourish for generations yet unborn.

As always, Aseyisamodun, sir!

Olubanjo is a Senior Manager with Globacom.