Category: Auto Guid

Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources have indicated that the country remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of the Declaration of Cooperation between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies under OPEC+.

This position highlights Nigeria’s continued alignment with collective efforts aimed at ensuring stability in the global oil market.

Nigeria recognises the critical role of OPEC and OPEC+ in managing oil supply, reducing market volatility, and fostering a more predictable pricing environment.

These coordinated efforts are considered vital to sustaining global economic stability and supporting long-term energy development across producing and consuming nations.

The Ministry, further noted that Nigeria will maintain adherence to agreed production frameworks while constructively engaging with fellow member countries to strengthen cooperation and market balance.

At the same time, it emphasized that national interest remains a key consideration in all decisions, ensuring that domestic economic priorities are not compromised.

Overall, Nigeria’s position reflects a balanced approach, demonstrating strong support for multilateral energy cooperation while safeguarding its economic interests within the evolving global energy landscape.

Nigerian musician, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has urged young artistes to prioritise knowledge of music contracts before signing them.

He shared the advice in Lagos, speaking on the sidelines of the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards last Friday, where he reflected on his long-standing journey in the music industry.

The award-winning artiste stressed that success in the industry goes beyond talent, noting that focus, professionalism, and a clear understanding of contractual agreements are essential.

Asked to advise upcoming artistes, 2Baba said, ‘Young artistes should be focused and see music like any other profession. They should also understand the contract before signing it.’

Reflecting on his career, the singer admitted he would have handled certain aspects differently, particularly in business.

‘I wish I was more engaged, educated myself as an aggressive businessman.

‘But I don’t regret being who I am. I live a simple life and I mind my business.

‘For me, the desire for peaceful co-existence is my driving force,’ he stated.

The ‘African Queen’ hitmaker also spoke about the possibility of deeper involvement in politics, indicating interest but no clear decision yet.

‘I’m already into politics. I’m someone who would like to see good governance in the country. I will actually be involved in politics.

‘But I’m not certain if I should contest for any elective position in the coming general elections.

‘Nonetheless, anything can happen. You never can tell,’ he said.

My academic journey across Nigeria, South Africa, and the United States has been very enriching and transformative. In Nigeria, my BTech in Chemical Engineering gave me a strong engineering foundation and introduced me to process design and problem-solving. In South Africa, my MEng exposed me to deeper research, especially in biogas optimisation, e-waste, and circular economy systems, which really strengthened my passion for sustainability. Now, at Iowa State University in the US, my MSc has expanded my work into biomass pyrolysis, plastic waste valorisation, machine learning, and sustainability assessment.

Altogether, this journey has made me more resilient, adaptable, and globally aware, and has shaped my career towards developing sustainable process systems to solve real environmental and energy challenges.

What inspired your transition from chemical engineering to mechanical engineering? And what do you intend to achieve in your mechanical engineering speciality and expertise?

For me, the move from chemical engineering to mechanical engineering was really an expansion, not a complete change. Chemical engineering gave me a foundation in process design, reaction systems, and sustainability. However, as I delved deeper into research, I became more interested in the broader energy and thermal systems that underpin those processes. Mechanical engineering gave me the chance to build that broader perspective.

At Iowa State University, I have helped work on biomass pyrolysis, plastic waste valorisation, machine learning, and sustainability assessment. What I want to achieve with this expertise is to combine both fields to design more efficient, practical, and impactful waste-to-energy and sustainable process systems.

Could you describe your current research at Iowa State University?

At Iowa State University, my current research focuses on process modelling and sustainability assessment for thermochemical conversion systems. I develop process models for biomass pyrolysis using an open-source software called BioSTEAM and Python, simulate the thermal decomposition of plastic feedstocks to predict product yields, and construct detailed mass and energy balances for techno-economic analysis. I also perform sensitivity analysis on indicators such as net present value, minimum selling price, and internal rate of return. In addition, I use life-cycle impact assessment to evaluate environmental performance, and I apply machine learning to develop surrogate models that accelerate simulations and make them more useful for economic and policy decision-making.

How does machine learning impact energy systems? Why is that important?

Machine learning is very important in fuel and biorefinery systems because these processes are complex and influenced by many variables, such as feedstock composition, reaction conditions, and product distribution. Detailed simulations are useful, but they can be slow when evaluating many scenarios. Machine learning helps by building fast surrogate models that support optimisation, process design, and decision-making. In my work, this is valuable because it allows me to assess fuel production systems more efficiently while also considering techno-economic and environmental performance.

Your bio also states that you have worked on optimising biogas production. Can you tell us about that research?

Yes. My MEng research focused on the parametric optimisation of biogas production from anaerobic digestion of food waste using Aspen Plus. In that work, I developed a process model and studied how key operating conditions such as organic loading rate, hydraulic retention time, and temperature affect biogas production. The goal was to identify operating windows that improve performance and make waste-to-energy systems more efficient and practical. That project helped me provide professional advice on biogas production biorefinery, build a strong foundation in process simulation, optimisation, and sustainable energy system design. It also led to a publication on the effects of process parameters on biogas production from food waste using Aspen Plus.

Your profile states that you are interested in plastic waste and energy systems. What inspired your research in plastic waste valorisation and sustainable energy systems?

What inspires me most is the idea that waste need not remain waste. I see plastic waste and other underused materials as misplaced resources that can be converted into fuels, chemicals, and other valuable products through better process design and optimisation. That motivation became even stronger when I saw how large the problem really is. UNEP estimates the world generated about 400 million tonnes of plastic waste last year, and around 19 to 23 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems each year. For me, that means plastic waste valorisation is not just an academic topic. It is a real environmental and engineering challenge where research can make a measurable difference.

E-waste management is important because it sits at the intersection of environmental protection, public health, and resource recovery. Electronics contain valuable materials and expensive metals, but they also contain hazardous substances that can contaminate soil, water, and air when they are poorly handled. According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024, the world generated 62 billion kilograms of e-waste in 2022, but only 22.3 per cent was formally collected and recycled in an environmentally sound manner, and that total is projected to rise to 82 billion kilograms by 2030.

My contributions in this area have focused on the environmental fate of e-waste and on recycling and reuse strategies, because I believe circular approaches are essential to reduce damage while recovering value from discarded products.

Most research works and findings are shelved in libraries, seldom presented, and thus contribute little to societal development. What recognition or impact would you say your research is making in academia and society?

Presenting my research at international conferences has had a strong impact on my development as a researcher. It has helped me explain my work more clearly, defend my methods under questioning, and receive feedback from people working in related areas such as process systems engineering, sustainability, and waste valorisation. That kind of feedback is valuable because it often exposes blind spots, helps me frame the problem more clearly, and helps me think about the broader relevance of the work. It has also expanded my professional network and connected me with researchers who approach similar problems from different perspectives.

How do you contribute to local or international scholarship in your line of study or work?

I have served as a peer reviewer. Serving as a peer reviewer involves carefully evaluating the quality, originality, and technical soundness of a research manuscript before publication. In that role, I look at whether the research question is important, whether the methods are appropriate, whether the data support the conclusions, and whether the work is clearly written. It also involves giving constructive feedback that helps authors improve their papers. I see peer review as both a responsibility and a learning opportunity, because it sharpens my critical thinking and helps me stay aware of current research standards in the field.

What motivates you as a researcher? And what are your future research goals?

What motivates me is the opportunity to solve real problems that affect both industry and society. I am deeply motivated by research with practical value, especially work that can improve environmental outcomes, support sustainable development, and develop useful technologies from overlooked resources. I also enjoy the problem-solving side of research – building models, testing assumptions, analysing data, and gradually turning uncertainty into insight. For me, research is meaningful when it combines scientific rigour with real-world relevance.

My future research goal is to become a leading researcher in process systems engineering for sustainable energy and circular economy applications. I want to keep working at the intersection of process modelling, optimisation, machine learning, techno-economic analysis, and environmental assessment. Over time, I hope to develop robust decision-support tools for plastic waste valorisation, waste-to-energy systems, chemical recycling, and sustainable biorefineries.

My long-term aim is to produce research that not only advances academic knowledge, but also helps industry and governments make better policy decisions about how industrial process systems can be optimised, waste and energy systems are designed and managed.

What impact do you hope your research will have in your line of work or expertise, especially in the United States?

In the United States, I hope my research will help develop more efficient, economically viable pathways for converting waste into useful products at lower selling prices and with lower potential for harmful emissions. I want my work to support technologies and decision tools that help industry and policymakers move toward circular manufacturing, lower-emission energy systems, and better waste management practices. In practical terms, that means designing processes that are not only technically feasible, but also economically competitive and environmentally responsible. I would like my research to help the US better utilise waste streams, such as plastics and biomass, while creating systems that are scalable, resilient, and sustainable.

What does leadership mean to you, and do you consider yourself a leader in your line of work? In what recent ways have you demonstrated leadership in your school or in the US?

Leadership means service, responsibility, and helping others move towards a shared goal. I do see myself as a leader because, in both academic and student spaces, I try to guide, support, and contribute in meaningful ways.

Recently in the US, I have served as the president of AFLEC ISU, overseeing activities, facilitating meetings and award-winning events, helping manage organisational risk, and volunteering at City of Ames events like Rummage Rampage. I have also demonstrated leadership as a teaching assistant at Iowa State University, helping students understand difficult concepts and supporting their academic growth.

For me, leadership is not just about position, but about impact, consistency, and service.

As a scholar who has studied engineering in three universities across three countries, what methods would you recommend to Nigerian universities’ Faculties of Engineering that would make engineering teaching and research innovative and globally competitive?

From my experience studying in Nigeria, South Africa, and the US, I would recommend that Nigerian engineering faculties focus on project-based learning, a stronger undergraduate research culture, better training in digital engineering tools, closer industry partnerships, and more international collaboration. Engineering education becomes globally competitive when students are not only taught theory, but are also trained to solve real problems, use modern tools, and work across disciplines.

My own journey has shown me that this combination prepares students to contribute meaningfully to research, industry, and innovation.

Managing arthritis in male adults involves a combination of self-care, physical activity, and lifestyle changes. Here are some effective strategies: Be active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, such as fast walking or bicycling, to reduce pain and improve physical function. Incorporate gentle stretches: Perform daily stretches to move joints through their full range of motion and maintain good posture. Manage weight: Gradually lose weight to reduce the stress on joints and improve overall health.

Quit smoking: Avoid smoking, as it can damage connective tissues and increase arthritis pain. These strategies can help manage arthritis symptoms and improve the quality of life for male adults. It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options

Teeth grinding in children, known as bruxism, is common and often linked to stress, misaligned teeth, or sleep disturbances, and most kids outgrow it without lasting problems. Children may grind their teeth during sleep due to a combination of emotional and physical factors.

Stress or anxiety from school, changes in routine, or family conflicts can trigger bruxism. Dental issues, such as misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite, may cause the jaw to adjust unconsciously during sleep.

Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, snoring, or frequent nightmares, can also increase the likelihood of grinding. Additionally, teething, earaches, sinus pressure, hyperactivity, or certain medications may contribute. Parents often notice bruxism before the child does. Common signs include: Audible grinding or clenching sounds during sleep. Jaw pain, headaches, or facial soreness upon waking Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth detected during dental check-ups

Restless sleep or daytime irritability Most children outgrow teeth grinding, especially as baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth.

However, if grinding causes discomfort or dental damage, treatment may include: Night guards: Customfitted mouthpieces protect teeth and reduce jaw strain Stress reduction: Relaxing bedtime routines, warm baths, soothing music, or reading can help: Limiting caffeine, sugar, and processed foods before bedtime may reduce grinding Magnesiumrich foods or gentle jaw exercises can ease tension Consult a dentist or pediatrician if: grinding is persistent or severe.

There is noticeable tooth wear or jaw pain. The child shows sleep disturbances or behavioural changes. Stress-relief strategies do not reduce bruxism Routine dental visits are important to monitor teeth and jaw health. In most cases, bruxism is temporary and harmless, but early attention can prevent complications and support your child’s comfort and development.

Former presidential aide, Laolu Akande, has described Lagos State Deputy Governor, Babafemi Hamzat, as an exemplary public servant whose emergence in leadership reflects the kind of political succession Nigeria needs to overcome its governance challenges.

Speaking on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, Akande said Nigeria’s political elite crisis would be significantly reduced if political parties consistently produced technocrats and performers like Hamzat for higher office.

‘I think that if we have a political selection process, such as what seems to be emerging in Lagos, where you have people such as Dr. Babafemi Hamzat emerging the way he is emerging, I can dare to say that we would not have so much problems with the political elite,’ Akande said.

He went further to describe Hamzat as a tested administrator whose record in public service speaks for itself.

‘Because what I find out, because somebody that I know very well, is that this is an exemplary public servant. If those who take the decisions about who should go forward, if they give us people like Hamzat, look, I am willing to say that Nigeria will not be where we are today,’ he stated.

Akande cited landmark projects and reforms that he said bear Hamzat’s imprint, pointing to infrastructure development and digital transformation initiatives that changed governance in Lagos.

‘So, if you look at that Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge in Lagos, there is not one single Nollywood movie that I have seen that does not showcase that bridge. Hamzat was central to the idea and the implementation of that bridge.’

He also highlighted Hamzat’s role in modernising Lagos State’s public administration through technology, revealing that the state was ahead of many global institutions in adopting enterprise digital systems.

‘Most people don’t know, Lagos State managed to implement the Oracle Corporation software for automation of government business, pension, salary, payroll, and all of that. Lagos State government managed to implement the automation Oracle software ahead of New York State in the early 2000s. Guess who was behind it? Hamzat was the person behind it.’

Akande noted that deputy governors often operate under difficult political conditions, where ambition can easily be misconstrued, making Hamzat’s political evolution even more remarkable.

‘A lot of the times, people who find themselves in office as vice president and deputy governors specifically-it’s a very tough job. If you have ideas, you have to subsume your ideas, and people think that maybe you are too ambitious.’

He observed that across Nigeria, only a few deputy governors have successfully transitioned into governorship positions, making Hamzat’s growing political profile noteworthy.

Akande also credited Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for creating an atmosphere of trust, collaboration, and shared governance with his deputy.

‘But I think we also have to give the credit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who actually made the statement-and I don’t think a lot of people paid attention to it-that in Lagos, they have a two-man governor.’

According to him, that statement captures the unique working relationship between both leaders and explains the consistency in policy delivery in Lagos.

‘That tells you the kind of cohesion and the understanding that exists between Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat, and it has shown in the level of delivery and how government has been run.’

Akande said the Lagos model demonstrates the importance of leadership synergy and political maturity, adding that Hamzat’s long years of public service-from commissioner roles in Lagos to assignments at the federal level-have prepared him for bigger responsibilities.

‘The political evolution also speaks to having people who can work together, having a governor like Sanwo-Olu who is not intimidated by clearly an exemplary deputy who understands the issues, who has been a commissioner since, I think, maybe 2002 or 2003, doing great work both in Lagos State and the federal government,’ Akande stated.

His remarks come amid growing political conversations about succession politics in Lagos and the broader debate over competence, continuity, and the quality of leadership needed to drive Nigeria’s development in the years ahead.

IF you have not seen the recent trending video on social media showing the badly disfigured face of an Amotekun operative trying to prevent a Fulani herder from violating Oyo State’s grazing laws, maybe you should look it up. According to multiple reports, the incident occurred after the operative instructed the herder not to stray into unauthorised territory. Some reports claimed that the herder had earlier been reported to Amotekun operatives for harassing local women. In another incident, the Lagos State Butchers Association recently decried the persistent rise in the price of cows in the state, saying that they had become costlier than some second-hand cars. The association’s patron, Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, lamented during an interview with NAN in Lagos that the price had moved to as high as N2.5 million from about N1.7 million in 2025, a development he attributed to insecurity, rising transportation costs, and delayed local ranching initiatives. This last point is crucial.

And in yet another sad development, at least 28 Yoruba communities have been deserted in Ifelodun, Kwara State, following relentless onslaughts by nomadic terrorists. The harvest of death and destruction is huge, but the misgoverned governor of the state who recently battered ethnic sensibilities by renaming the Kwara Government House as Ahmadu Bello House is busy doing exactly nothing. As I show below, a single thread connects these seemingly disparate stories.

Many have argued that there’s nothing wrong with Yorubaland or indeed, any other part of Nigeria relying on another part for its cattle needs. Citing the law of comparative advantage, they argue that it makes sense for Nigeria’s South-West to focus on its areas of agricultural strength while sourcing cattle from the North. That idea is attractive, but for the purpose of this piece, it is subversive and useless. There would be no problem if all that Yorubaland did was buy cattle from others. But the cattle business has opened up ethnic cleansing concerns, and the earlier Yorubaland exploited other alternatives, the better for its future. The cattle business enables expansionist, genocidal raids in Yoruba territory, and this atrocity must be confronted. Estimates of Yoruba people killed in terrorist onslaughts by nomadic herders vary, but a September 2024 submission by Professor Banji Akintoye, a Yoruba historian and leader, puts the figure at over 29,000. Relying on foes for food is courting danger.

The Yoruba say, ‘We cannot, out of a desire to eat meat, call a cow (elder) brother.’ But the potency of such a proverb has been neutralised by the trail of bloodshed in the land as nomadic herders try their best to turn it into a human abattoir. The Yoruba, like most other ethnic groups, are being decimated by terrorist herders, dying because of beef. The owners feed their cows on Yoruba farms, yet sell the same cows to them for money. Until the link between cattle supply and terrorism is broken, it makes sense for the Yoruba to nurture and feed on their own cattle. In 2022, the then Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, while addressing some stakeholders in the education sector in Akure, the state capital, advised residents of the South-West states to consider killing chickens for ceremonies instead of cows in order to prevent capital flight. His grouse was that the region was losing nothing less than N2.5 billion daily to the consumption of cows. The proposal is fraught with difficulties, but it raises a concern that no perceptive observer can possibly dismiss.

Yorubaland can raise its own cattle, abandoning the northern grazing model. It can achieve a lot through ranching. It is a no-brainer that controlled, fenced systems with planted pasture use land more efficiently. The South-West would be saving its future by investing in cattle feed (e.g., cassava peels), improving cattle breeds and productivity, and investing more purposefully in slaughterhouses, refrigeration and transport. Evidently, public-private partnerships, private investments and cooperatives can go a long way in this regard, as can well-thought-out land policies for ranching.

What if the South-West states set a target to produce at least 40 percent of the region’s cattle needs, establishing multiple functional ranches in each state? Nothing stops them from setting aside an adequate number of hectares, undertaking breeding upgrades through imports or partnerships, creating state-of-the-art abattoirs, and upgrading dairy collection systems. Suppose organs like Afenifere launch a Cattle Breeding Initiative with significant support from Yoruba people in Euro-America and other climes? And suppose that this scheme is backed up by security arrangements using seasoned hunters with complementary support from Amotekun? There will always be problems, but it is better to fight off danger than to sit idly and do nothing. The reason the enemies of the Yoruba are so bold and so disdainful towards them is that the Yoruba have been feeding and sustaining them for ages.

I hear of moves in this regard by some state governments. For instance, Oyo State is said to be transforming its cattle production sector into a structured agribusiness through the $500 million World Bank-assisted Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES). According to reports, the state focuses on enhancing productivity, commercialisation, and modernisation of cattle farming. The government is said to be pushing for artificial insemination to improve milk yield, which is currently low (3-4 liters per day) compared to international standards. A shift towards sedentary, settled, and intensive systems is reportedly occurring, reducing traditional migration.

Ogun State, on its part, is said to be undertaking a significant expansion of its livestock sector, establishing modern, large-scale cattle ranches and dairy production facilities to enhance food security and industrial growth. Plans are in fact underway to establish Nigeria’s largest dairy and cattle ranches in Ipokia and Yewa South LGs, with an initial capacity of 5,000 head of cattle. The government is said to be establishing modern ranching facilities to replace unregulated slaughtering at locations like Kara Market with hygienic, centralised slaughtering and processing. Last year, I saw a video showing the state receiving a consignment of 50 in-calf Ayrshire heifers via air from Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, to enhance dairy and beef cattle populations.

Great as these efforts are, they are not enough. I suggest that the governors of the South-West mandate varsities and research institutions to produce a certain quota of cattle by specific dates. I suggest that they provide land and security to would-be investors, and ensure that before the end of their tenure, only beef produced in the South-West is consumed in Government House. I suggest that the South-West set specific targets to produce cattle, and organise a cattle carnival where both public and private initiatives will showcase cattle breeds and cattle products actualised in each state. The governors should set up cattle ranches in each local government, with adequate security in place. Let them seek the inputs of researchers and agriculturists, home and abroad.

Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole must dispense with the fulanisation of cattle rearing. Cows have no ethnic group. Along with the warning today, please read ‘Rescuing Yorubaland’ (November 12, 2022). Ire o.

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic road accident involving its students and a staff member, which claimed four lives and left several others injured.

In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Onen Ebri Onen, the university disclosed that the accident involved 24 students and one staff member, many of whom were members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive. They were returning from an official assignment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, when the incident occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The university confirmed that three students and one staff member lost their lives in the crash.

Those who died were identified as Comrade Solomon Uya, Director of Sports of the SUG; Comrade Lucky Erim of the Department of Chemistry, who also served as President of the Faculty of Physical Sciences Students’ Association and President of Presidents; Comrade Favour Darlington of the Department of Educational Management; and Mr Anthony Arikpo, the vehicle driver and a staff member of the institution.

According to the statement, survivors are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals, with the university assuring that adequate medical care is being provided.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof Francisca Bassey, accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof Stella Maris-Okey, visited the injured students, expressing solidarity and personally monitoring their treatment.

The management noted that the Vice Chancellor remained with the victims until the early hours to ensure that all necessary medical attention was administered.

Prof Bassey conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased and described the incident as a painful loss to the university community.

She also reassured the injured students and their families of the institution’s unwavering support, emphasising that their recovery and well-being remain a top priority.

The university further appealed for calm and assured parents and guardians that every effort is being made to provide the best possible care for the affected students.

The governorship ambition of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, received a major boost on Thursday as the Lagos State councils of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) endorsed his candidacy for the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement came during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, where labour leaders expressed confidence in Hamzat’s capacity to lead the state and pledged massive support for his bid.

Hamzat’s aspiration has continued to gather momentum following earlier endorsements from key stakeholders, including President Bola Tinubu, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other party leaders.

Former APC governorship aspirant, Dr Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, had earlier withdrawn from the race in support of Hamzat, while former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode also congratulated him on emerging as the party’s consensus candidate.

The Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and other party chieftains have also backed the deputy governor’s ambition.

In addition, the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) recently declared support for Hamzat.

Earlier, the GAC purchased Hamzat’s nomination form after endorsing him as its preferred candidate. The form was later signed by 120 APC leaders and members drawn from the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas.

Speaking on behalf of the labour unions, Lagos NLC Chairperson, Comrade Funmi Sessi, described Hamzat as a loyal, competent, tested and trusted leader. According to her, his victory would ensure continuity of the developmental strides recorded by successive administrations in Lagos, particularly under Governor Sanwo-Olu.

Sessi, however, used the occasion to demand improved welfare for workers, calling for an upward review of the state’s minimum wage from ?85,000 to ?225,000.

She said rising inflation, worsening economic conditions and the high cost of living in Lagos had significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power.

‘Lagos remains Nigeria’s economic nerve centre, where the costs of transportation, housing and feeding are exceptionally high,’ she said.

Representing Governor Sanwo-Olu at the event, Hamzat thanked workers for the confidence reposed in him and pledged not to disappoint Lagosians.

‘We will not let you down. The developmental trajectory of Lagos will be improved upon,’ he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the leadership of the NLC and TUC for maintaining constructive engagement with government, assuring that his administration would continue open dialogue and collaboration with labour unions.

Speaking earlier after receiving the endorsement of President Tinubu and the GAC, Hamzat described his governorship ambition as audacious but said his experience as deputy governor had prepared him for the task ahead.

‘Nobody is ever fully ready because the assignment is audacious. But what you have is experience. Having served as Deputy Governor of Lagos, I have learned a lot.

‘I know the room. I know where the kitchen is. If you want to cook for people and you do not know the kitchen, no matter how good a chef you are, you must know the kitchen.

‘With God’s blessings and the support of all my fathers here, I have no fear,’ he said.

The Bauchi State Government has announced the sum of ?500 million as an intervention for the procurement of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to prevent anaemia in pregnancy and ensure skilled, safe delivery.

The announcement was made during the second quarter (Q2) 2026 meeting of the State Task Force on Primary Healthcare (STF-PHC), which brought together top government officials, traditional leaders, development partners and health sector stakeholders to review progress and reinforce commitments towards improving primary healthcare services across the state.

Delivering his keynote address, the State Deputy Governor and Chairman of the STF-PHC, Rt Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, emphasised that the task force meeting provides an opportunity to review collective progress and renew strategic leadership for primary healthcare delivery.

He acknowledged the strong collaboration between the state government and development partners, noting that interventions in routine immunisation, maternal and child health, nutrition services and disease surveillance are yielding encouraging results.

The Deputy Governor appreciated the Governor’s approval and release of ?300 million as a UNICEF nutrition matching grant in 2025, which was matched by the agency for the procurement of critical commodities, including Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements (SQ-LNS) and Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS).

He disclosed that while most of the commodities have been distributed across the state, the MMS procurement process is ongoing.

He further revealed that the Governor has approved the sum of ?500 million for the same intervention in 2026, with the state awaiting the release of the funds.

He also highlighted the ongoing ?19 billion renovation, upgrading and equipping of the Specialist Hospital Bauchi as a major investment in the health sector.

While acknowledging the gains recorded, the Deputy Governor noted persisting challenges such as human resource gaps, data quality issues, service delivery bottlenecks and the need for stronger community engagement.

He called on all local government chairpersons and stakeholders to intensify supervision and accountability at the grassroots, stressing that the success of primary healthcare depends largely on effective implementation at ward and facility levels.

In his closing remarks, the Co-Chair of the STF-PHC and the Emir of Dass urged members to translate deliberations into concrete actions that will directly impact communities.

He emphasised the vital role of traditional institutions in mobilising communities to utilise primary healthcare services and assured continued support in promoting health-seeking behaviour at the grassroots.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam, described the meeting as a critical platform for assessing ongoing interventions, identifying gaps and strengthening accountability mechanisms at all levels of care.

He reiterated that primary healthcare remains the backbone of the health system and is essential to achieving universal health coverage, reducing maternal and child mortality, and improving community wellbeing across Bauchi State.