Category: Business Day

Peter Obi, Labour Party LP leader and the party’s 2023 Presidential flag bearer, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and other relevant clearing agencies to ensure thorough scrutiny of candidates to prevent the embarrassment of allowing criminals into office.

Obi, writing on his X handle on Monday, recalled how people in the office today are parading forged certificates and fraudulent affidavits they used in 2023.

He berated the screening agencies for letting them scale through both INEC, security and the Senate with forged documents.

Obi stressed that thorough scrutiny has become necessary because the process by which one gets to office is far more fundamental than what they do thereafter.

Going forward, Obi admonished INEC and others to ensure that candidates’ documents and character are thoroughly examined and necessary action taken.

Obi, writing on what he titled ‘The danger of making crime a norm’, noted ‘, Whenever I talk about Nigeria being a crime scene, those who are part of the criminality and their hirelings will quickly start their noise-making, attacking and blackmailing me.

‘ But, how do you tell people that those whose integrity, character and behaviour are supposed to be exemplary and emulated in society have become the very source of the nation’s decay? How do you tell young Nigerians to be honest and upright when those they are supposed to emulate are the least to be emulated because they are criminals and dishonest?

‘Certificate forgery is a serious criminal offence in all countries of the world. It is one of the most corrupt practices heavily punished.

‘In one of my knowledge-seeking visits to Indonesia early this year, after interacting with several ministers responsible for Health, Villages, SMEs, Planning, and Education, as well as the Vice President and President Joko Widodo on development, I met with the Chairman of the General Elections Commission of Indonesia. I asked him about the educational qualifications required to participate in elections from local government to the state legislature, governorship, and up to the presidential level. He openly stated these qualifications to me.

‘My team and I then asked a simple question: What happens if someone contests for public office with a forged certificate or did not attend the school he claimed he attended? He looked at me, surprised, and said, ‘That attracts immediate disqualification and prosecution. It is a criminal offence. He added, ‘If someone can forge a certificate, how can that person be trusted to lead others?’

Obi, however, lamented that although the laws are the same globally, INEC makes no efforts to scrutinise certificates before elections.

‘But in my country, Nigeria, though the laws are the same as in other countries, where forgery is punished by immediate disqualification, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) makes no effort to scrutinise certificates before the elections

‘ They overlook complaints of forgery, and when you challenge after the elections, the court will dismiss the serious criminal issues as ‘pre-election matters’ without giving this criminal act appropriate punishment.

INEC, even after the elections, does not bother to revisit or investigate these serious offences before the next election.

‘The other concerning issue from all these is how criminals and dishonest people scale through all the scrutiny layers -security, parliament and government apparatus set to handle such.

‘Even more disturbing, amounting to double tragedy, is that most of these dishonest people swore to an affidavit before a law court attesting to the authenticity of the documents they presented.

‘We are now preparing for the 2027 general elections. INEC have enough time to investigate past complaints about various forms of forgery and false claims.

‘Our Electoral amendments must include that anyone intending to contest for any public office, whether an incumbent or a new candidate, must submit all academic certificates to the electoral body immediately after party primaries, at least six months before the election.

‘These certificates, alongside details of schools attended, what was studied and years of study, should be made public for verification within 90 days. This process must also apply to appointed officials, Ministers and even aides, because when dishonesty starts from the top, it spreads to every level of governance, just like it’s happening now.

‘We must deal with certificate forgery holistically with the seriousness and level of criminality it deserves. Criminal offences should not be dismissed as a mere procedural matter. We must end the era where forgery and deceit are rewarded with power. True leadership must begin with truth.

Recently at the prestigious International Risk Management Awards ceremony held in South Africa, Eneni Oduwole, the 1st vice president and vice-chair of the Governing Council of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI) emerged winner of the Africa risk management award.

Oduwole’s recognition is seen as a testament to her dedication to capacity development, ethical leadership and the elevation of professional standards within Nigeria and Africa’s risk management ecosystem.

A seasoned risk management and ESG professional and the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Alter-Ed Limited, Oduwole’s recognition underscores her outstanding contributions to advancing risk management practices, corporate governance and institutional resilience across the continent.

The recognition affirms her professional excellence and leadership.

She states, ‘Being nominated for the Africa Risk Management Awards is both an honour and a humbling recognition of my commitment to advancing risk management, governance, and sustainability in Africa. It reflects the collective efforts of professionals striving to embed resilience and ethical leadership across organisations and industries.

‘To me, this nomination is not just personal-it symbolises the progress of the risk management profession on the continent and the vital role it plays in shaping Africa’s sustainable growth and global competitiveness. It inspires me to continue mentoring, innovating, and contributing to solutions that strengthen institutions and communities,’ she said.

Kevin Ugwuoke, president and chairman of the Council of CRMI in a statement, described Oduwole’s achievement as a reflection of the Institute’s growing international profile and Nigeria’s leadership role in shaping the future of risk management in Africa.

He states, ‘that this award reflects the key value proposition of CRMI, encouraging and equipping risk professionals for excellence, leadership, and dedication in advancing the risk management profession not just within their immediate spheres of influence but most importantly across Africa, and globally.’

The Africa Risk Management Award honours individuals and institutions who have demonstrated innovation, integrity and significant impact in promoting effective risk management frameworks in Africa.

Before founding Alter-Ed Limited, a platform dedicated to professional development and organisational transformation, Oduwole held several senior leadership roles in Nigeria’s bank regulatory, financial services, and manufacturing sectors.

She has been widely recognised for her mentorship, thought leadership, and advocacy for a resilient and ethically driven risk culture across industries.

Her international recognition further cements Nigeria’s position as a hub of professional excellence and highlights CRMI’s pivotal role in promoting best practices, strategic governance, and innovation in risk management across Africa.

Every year on 5th October, the world celebrates World Teachers’ Day, a moment to honour the women and men like Rev. Sr Margaret and Rev. Fr Martins McComboy who dedicate their lives to shaping the minds and hearts of future generations. It is a day to pause and reflect on teachers’ transformative role in building nations, nurturing values, and empowering individuals. For Africa, this commemoration carries a more profound urgency: the continent’s destiny depends on its teachers’ strength, resilience, and inspiration.

Teachers: Architects of the African future

Teachers are more than conveyors of knowledge; they are architects of character and catalysts of transformation. In classrooms from Lagos to Lusaka, from Cairo to Cape Town, teachers can ignite curiosity, cultivate discipline, and unleash potential. In Africa, where over 60 percent of the population is under 25, the teacher is central to unlocking the so-called ‘demographic dividend’. Without quality teaching, the continent’s youthful energy risks turning into frustration, unemployment, and instability. However, with inspired and well-supported teachers, Africa can raise a generation of innovators, leaders, and change-makers. Challenges facing teachers in Africa

Despite their critical role, many African teachers face overwhelming challenges:

1. Teacher Shortages: UNESCO estimates that Africa will need millions of new teachers by 2030 to meet universal education goals. Rural areas are hardest hit.

2. Low Pay and Motivation: Many teachers work under poor conditions, with salaries that barely sustain their families, leading to attrition and low morale.

3. Inadequate Training: Many teachers enter classrooms without sufficient professional preparation or access to continuous development.

4. Overcrowded Classrooms: In some countries, one teacher manages more than 70 students, limiting the possibility of personalised learning.

5. Digital Divide: The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the gulf in digital readiness, leaving teachers and students without access to practical e-learning tools.

The way forward: Reimagining teaching in Africa

World Teachers’ Day must inspire Africa to act decisively in transforming the teaching profession. Some priorities include:

1. Investing in teacher training: Governments and universities must expand teacher education programmes, embedding modern pedagogies, digital skills, and inclusive practices.

2. Improving welfare and recognition: Teachers should be paid decent wages, provided housing and healthcare benefits, and celebrated as national heroes.

3. Leveraging technology: E-learning platforms, AI-driven teaching aids, and open educational resources can support teachers and extend their reach, especially in underserved areas. 4. Reducing class sizes: Expanding infrastructure and recruiting more teachers will allow interactive and effective teaching.

5. Empowering teachers as leaders: Teachers should not only be seen as state employees but as partners in policy-making who shape the future of education.

Teachers as nation builders

In Africa’s journey of transformation, teachers are the unsung nation builders. They shape the doctors who heal, the engineers who build, the entrepreneurs who create jobs, and the leaders who govern. The African proverb reminds us: ‘If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ Teachers take us far, collectively and sustainably, by investing in generations we may never see.

History also affirms this truth. From Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, himself a teacher before becoming president, to Nelson Mandela, who famously declared that ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’ Africa’s most outstanding leaders understood the sacred calling of teachers. Call to action:

On this World Teachers’ Day, I call upon:

Governments: Prioritise education budgets with a focus on teacher development and welfare.

Private sector: Invest in teacher-support initiatives, scholarships, and digital resources as part of corporate social responsibility.

Communities: Restore respect for teachers, ensuring they are valued as mentors and guides.

Teachers themselves: Continue to teach with passion, integrity, and resilience, knowing that you are shaping destinies and transforming societies.

Conclusion

World Teachers’ Day is not just a day to thank teachers; it is a call to reimagine teaching as the cornerstone of Africa’s transformation. The future of Africa will not be determined solely in boardrooms or parliaments, but in classrooms where teachers light the spark of possibility in young minds.

Let us therefore resolve to honour, empower, and support our teachers. The pen that writes the story of Africa’s tomorrow is in their hands.

The tragic death of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a 29-year-old lawyer and news anchor with Arise TV, during a robbery at her residence in Unique Estate, Katampe, has cast a harsh spotlight on the deteriorating security situation in Abuja.

Maduagwu succumbed to injuries sustained after armed robbers invaded the block of six flats where she lived in the early hours of Monday, 29 September. According to Ajao Adewale, the FCT Police Commissioner, she lost her life while attempting to escape the intruders by jumping from the balcony of her top-floor apartment in the three-story building.

The attack also left one of the two private security guards wounded by gunfire, further underscoring the brutality of the incident. This disturbing event has drawn renewed attention to Nigeria’s growing insecurity, especially within the nation’s capital.

When BusinessDay visited Unique Apartments in the Gishiri/Katampe area of Abuja-a complex of six flats-one resident, Chukunguike, who lives on the top floor of Block B7, shared his harrowing experience during the incident.

‘I woke up around 2 a.m. and was working on my laptop when I heard a woman scream for help,’ he recounted. ‘Moments later, there was a loud noise, which I suspected could have been a gunshot.’

At first, he locked his doors, assuming the disturbance was coming from elsewhere. But soon after, he heard footsteps and movement around the estate, which comprises two blocks. ‘The noise started in the first block where the victim lived and moved closer. At that hour, it’s unusual to hear such activity, so I knew something was wrong.’

Chukunguike and his cousin went into hiding after seeing intruders entering through the window. Eventually, the robbers broke into their rooms, took their phones, demanded passwords, but left without harming them. He could not confirm the exact circumstances of Maduagwu’s death but heard she fell from her balcony.

Residents of Katampe and neighboring communities described their neighborhoods as being under siege, plagued by frequent armed robbery attacks over the years. Despite numerous appeals for help, many say the police response has been inadequate or entirely absent.

A resident who spoke anonymously said, ‘Recently, two houses on the same street where the presenter died were robbed, along with other locations around here.’ Another resident, Musa, recounted his ordeal during a robbery at his boss’s house on the same street, where expensive property was stolen while his boss was away.

Fatima, another Katampe resident, expressed fear, saying, ‘I’m losing my sanity. We can’t sleep at night due to these armed attacks. It’s worse during power outages or rain, and no one is being arrested. The police seem incapacitated or unwilling to act.’

The pattern is similar in surrounding areas like Mpape, Gishiri, and Apo Resettlement-communities close to Nigeria’s seat of government yet living in fear as criminals operate with impunity.

In some communities, residents have organised vigilante groups to fill the security vacuum. However, their success has been mixed. While vigilantes in Gishiri have made some arrests, in other areas, their presence has sometimes worsened disorder.

Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, denied reports of ongoing robberies in these communities, questioning the communication between residents and security agencies.

FCT Police Commissioner, Ajao Adewale, also said that intelligence and operational assets are being deployed to address the security challenges. Still, many residents remain unsettled, with some temporarily relocating. One resident lamented, ‘This place is supposed to be secure, but insecurity is no longer confined to one location-it can happen anywhere in Abuja.’

Residents also complain of understaffed and ill-equipped police posts. A trader in Gishiri said, ‘We have only one police post with two or three officers who don’t even have rifles. We rely on Mabushi Police Station, but even they don’t respond adequately.’

Musa, a security guard at the unique apartments revealed that when the police were called during the robbery at his boss’s home, they cited lack of fuel for their vehicle and did not respond. Vigilante groups, he noted, sometimes catch criminals only to see them released by the police.

BusinessDay had published stories on rising insecurity in Abuja, including in Grow Homes Estate, located in Kubwa area, were residents were held hostage for over an hour between midnight and 1:30 a.m. by a group of heavily armed kidnappers who invaded the estate and abducted some residents.

A BusinessDay staff member also recounted how his own street, located in the Durumi area was targeted by robbers for five straight days, during which the intruders dismantled and stole his solar inverter and batteries.

Kabiru Adamu, a security analyst and Managing Director (CEO) of Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited has raised concerns over the increasing insecurity in the nation’s capital, calling for reforms and investment in public safety infrastructure. His comments follow an incident in Bwari where a man was reportedly killed and his three children abducted.

In an interview with BusinessDay, Adamu criticized the authorities for failing to address the growing security challenges in Abuja and surrounding areas. ‘Abuja is not secure,’ he said. ‘Anyone who wants to carry out an attack can do so and get away with it.’

He cited recent incidents, including the killing of a security guard and the abduction of a journalist’s children, as evidence of structural weaknesses in the FCT’s security framework.

Adamu faulted the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for not adopting the national emergency numbers like 112 and 199. ‘They use an 11-digit number that even they can’t memorize. What about a woman in the market?’ he asked.

He stressed that an effective public safety system must be built on three key elements: people, systems, and technology. He also highlighted the lack of coordinated security across the FCT’s six area councils and poor emergency response in rural areas. ‘In some areas like Kwali, it can take two to three hours for security to respond to incidents,’ he said.

Adamu pointed to geographic challenges, especially in areas like Katampe Extension, which are surrounded by mountainous terrain. These areas, he noted, connect to states such as Niger, Kaduna, and Kogi, which have high levels of criminal activity. ‘These routes make it easy for criminals to enter and leave the FCT without detection,’ he said.

He urged the FCTA and the Minister of the FCT to coordinate ongoing efforts into a single, functional system capable of deterring and responding to threats. ‘Security has six components, and they must be built on people, systems, and technology,’ he said.

Referring to the recent death of a security staff member and repeated robbery incidents in Katampe, Adamu said residents had reported these to the police, but little had been done. ‘This is not just the police’s responsibility. All security agencies must work together under FCTA coordination,’ he added.

He noted that while the attack on a journalist’s family gained attention due to the victim’s profession, similar incidents happen regularly without coverage or official response.

Eze Onyekpere, Executive Director of the Centre for Social Justice, has raised concerns over growing insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), saying recent criminal incidents reflect broader weaknesses in Nigeria’s security system.

Onyekpere was responding to reports of a man killed in Bwari with his children abducted, along with robberies at hotels in Gwarinpa and Dutse.

‘This shows the security situation in Nigeria is worsening. We’re not even talking about insurgency or terrorism – these are basic armed robberies,’ he said. ‘We assumed armed robbery was declining, but it reappears whenever there’s an opportunity.’

He attributed the persistence of such crimes to weak deterrence and enforcement. ‘These crimes happen because people believe they can commit them without consequences. If there were functioning CCTV systems and suspects were arrested and punished, others would think twice,’ Onyekpere stated.

He referred to a failed CCTV project in Abuja, financed by a Chinese loan during the Jonathan administration, which he said was mismanaged and left incomplete. ‘The money was misused. Nothing was installed, and we’re now seeing the consequences,’ he added.

Onyekpere stressed that effective policing today relies on technology. He cited examples from the United States and United Kingdom, where authorities use surveillance footage, fingerprint databases, and other digital tools to track and apprehend suspects – even years after a crime.

‘Police in Europe and America aren’t magicians. They use systems that work – databases, fingerprint records, video evidence – to catch people, even after a decade,’ he said.

Reacting to recent remarks by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who maintained that Abuja remains safe, Onyekpere urged caution. ‘Even if one person is killed, that alone shows there’s a problem. It’s not helpful to dismiss public concerns when lives are being lost,’ he said.

He called for more investment in surveillance, better coordination among security agencies, and greater responsiveness from government officials. ‘We need more vigilance and efficiency. Abuja and Nigeria as a whole need improved security systems,’ he added.

While acknowledging that no city is entirely crime-free, Onyekpere said continuous improvement is essential. ‘If we’re at 50%, we must aim for 60%. Even at 99%, we should still improve,’

However, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, insists that Abuja remains safe.

‘If there is one safe city in this country, I think Abuja is that city,’ he said. ‘The problem is when one incident happens, people forget that for months nothing happened. We are doing a lot to keep Abuja safe,’ he had said publicly.

While acknowledging occasional incidents, Wike urged the public to recognize the efforts of security agencies and not to label the entire city unsafe.

Operators in Nigeria’s multi-billion-naira hospitality industry have urged Government to extend greater support to the sector brand to strengthen their capacity as key drivers of economic growth.

The stakeholders, who acknowledged the need at the just-concluded Hotel Expo Nigeria (HEN) held in Lagos, also appealed to Government to promptly address the issues of insecurity and infrastructure deficit that continue to serve as huge hindrances to the growth of the hospitality sector.

Jonathan Hansen, founder and convener of HEN, believed that it had become important for Government to give brands and operators in the hospitality business the much-needed support since the sector remains one of the largest employer of labour.

The players explained that one of the objectives behind the annual exhibition of brands in the sector was to create awareness for the sector and provide a platform, annually, for operators to network.

Hansen further expressed delight that the annual event, which made its debut in 2019 with 14 participants had begun to gain popularity among stakeholders, with 65 brands, leveraging the platform this year to network and establish enduring business partnerships.

‘Government partnership has not been easy. The only thing that we’ve got is endorsement. This is an industry government should see as a driver of employment creation, since the ecosystem is seen as the highest employer’, he added.

Ntewak Umoh, Hospitality Business and Inventory Management Consultant, believed the exhibition offered vendors the opportunity to come together to provide wide range of businesses that, ordinarily, would have been difficult to access at a spot.

Informal land market has become the toast of investors who buy land for economic activities, especially real estate where it is a major factor for consideration.

In most Nigerian societies, there are formal and informal land markets. Whereas the formal land markets are those governed by state law, informal land markets are those that are neither governed by state law nor registered in the government system.

In recent times, some investors are attracted to informal land delivery networks due largely to expediency benefits. But these benefits are often short-term. Still, this is particularly attractive in regions where conventional land procedures appear detached from the reality of the operating environment.

‘In contrast to the formal land system, which is typically slow and complex, the informal system provides greater flexibility, more affordable land, and a broader selection of locations. It also benefits where government-backed regularisation programmes assist individuals in legalizing their land upon acquisition,’ according to a new report on the real estate market.

The report compiled by Northcourt Real Estate, notes that other investors concentrate on the historical and structural factors underlying the preference for informal systems, pointing out that antiquated regulations, rigid planning controls, and the centralized management of land render the official system unattractive.

Land in most cities of Nigeria commands high value and therefore attracts premium price. This is because it is in high demand for virtually all economic activities. Though it is a passive factor and does not possess any ability to produce on its own, it is an important agent of production.

Modern economists consider land as a specific factor of production, which can be put, not only to a specific purpose, but also to several other uses.

Some investors hinge their reason for favouring informal market on the inadequate performance of the formal system, which compels them to opt for the alternatives.

‘When the formal system fails to allocate land efficiently, individuals seek alternatives. This dynamic supports rising land demand- particularly in regions where customary actors actively shape spatial development patterns,’ the report explains further.

The report notes that farmlands which largely belong to the informal land market have suffered significant space loss to urban expansion and infrastructure development.

It cited Lagos, where a recent study by the Federal University Ekiti, Federal University of Technology Akure and Obafemi Awolowo University found out that farmland decreased from 1984 to 2024, while developed regions increased by 22,538.34 hectares.

‘The annual rate of farmland reduction has intensified over time. Recent studies suggest that from 1984 to 2013, the average annual reduction in agriculture was -0.45 percent, while light forest, open spaces and waterbodies (through landfilling) experienced declines of -2.38 percent, -0.61 percent, and -0.57 percent, respectively.

‘During the same timeframe, developed regions and wetlands expanded at rates of 4.94 percent and 2.06 percent per annum. From 2013 to 2024, the annual rate of farmland loss increased to -2.42 percent, with more pronounced decreases in light forest (-6.78 percent), open space (-3.45 percent) shrub (-6.36 percent), and waterbodies (-1.56 percent),’ it said.

Accelerated loss of agriculture and natural landscapes exerting upward pressure on land prices. The decrease in farmland and open spaces since 2013, largely attributed to urban expansion. Urban farming in Lagos is seeing a consistent decline due to the escalating conversion of land for residential and infrastructural development.

Despite indications that urban farming is gradually acknowledged as a viable means of

livelihood, agricultural land is still being developed into residential and commercial use. This is especially the case for the marginalized.

Nigeria’s crude oil production is expected to hit a total of 1.8 million barrels per day in December, according to Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Ojulari disclosed this while speaking with State House Journalists, in Lagos, after briefing President Bola Tinubu, at the State House, in Lagos, on Monday.

The NNPCL CEO, disclosed that he was at the State House to brief the President on developments in the oil sector, especially, on the progress in NNPC .

Ojulari said he briefed the President particularly, on crude oil production performance, as well as, progress being made in attracting investments into the sector.

‘As you recall the President gave us a clear mandate which is to grow production to at least 2 million bpd by 2027 and upto 3 million bpd by 2030 as well as grow gas production as well.

The NNPCL CEO who revealed that Nigeria is making good progress in crude oil production, recalled that ‘We recorded 1.68mbpd of oil production last month which was very good.

‘That was the first in about five years, in terms of milestone, we also recorded the highest gas production above 7BCF per day which is also the highest in recent times’

‘On the backdrop some turnaround maintenances, we have done in August and September, we are hoping that by the end of the year we should at least be clocking 1.8mbpd.’

He described the recent industrial dispute between the Dangote Group and members of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers PENGASSAN, as ‘unfortunate’, as it affected vital sectors of the oil and gas industry

‘It was unfortunate because, whenever there is strike, critical staff manning critical facilities are not available is almost impossible.

‘In this particular case we actually lost significant production of over 200,000 bpd that was differed we also have Gas production that was differed we also have power generation that was impacted about 1.2mega watts of power that was affected by that strike’

‘I think I’m very pleased that the Federal Government through the leadership of Minister of Labour and full support of NSA we were able to get everyone to dialogue and agree.

‘ Now there is a communique that has been agreed on. We are all very hopeful that everyone will abide by the communique.

He disclosed that crude oil production had since resumed to status quo.

‘ There has been one or two areas that we are still trying to catch up with, but on overall, we are gradually back.to restore lost production and the deferment that we have as of today.

He also described the recent increase in prices of gas and petrol as largely artificial, resulting from the recent industrial dispute, but assured that they will be adjusted

‘So, the increase you saw was relatively artificial because for the period of the strike quiet movement and loading were delayed for about two to three days and because of that you see that impact and as things returns to normal it takes sometimes for distribution to fully return and with that delay.

‘My expectations is that now that things are back to normal, prices should return to what they were before the strike.’

Anchored on the theme ‘Africa Unlocked: Capital, Compliance, Connectivity and Market Trends, ‘this year’s edition will explore how evolving regulations, innovative financing models, and shifting sectoral priorities are shaping the future of investment across the continent.

Amala Umeike and Christian Aniukwu will headline as speakers, while the Fireside Chat will feature Ozioma Agu in conversation with Yann Alix. The Panel session will be moderated by Andrew Skipper, and will feature insights from distinguished speakers, Lucy Kavanagh, Daniel Driscoll, Francisca Igboanugo, and Paul Arkwright.

Bringing together investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, Horizon 2.0 is a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue and meaningful connections that will shape Africa’s investment landscape.

Nigeria’s vision of becoming a hub for automobile innovation gathered momentum as the University of Lagos (UNILAG) handed over a brand-new Nord Motors, made in Nigeria, car to Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.

The minister, who is an alumna of the University of Lagos Faculty of Law, on Wednesday, October 1, officially took delivery of her brand-new official vehicle, made in Nigeria by Nord Automobile and assembled right here at the Nord UNILAG assembly plant.

Oduwole, in her speech, said that having a locally assembled vehicle is a testament to supporting the Nigeria-first initiative of President Bola Tinubu.

‘We are committed to supporting Nigerian businesses to scale across the country, the African continent, and beyond,’ she said.

The minister noted that the purchase of the UNILAG-assembled automobile would help boost foreign exchange, create jobs, aid the education of youngsters, and research, besides, it would facilitate the transfer of technology.

She emphasised that one of the milestones the President Tinubu’s administration has been able to record in the last two years is the stabilisation of the economy.

She averred that it was for the purpose of promoting the cause of the Renewed Hope Agenda that she chose to celebrate Independence Day by buying a made-in-Nigeria vehicle for official use.

The minister took a tour of the assembly facility of Nord Automobile at UNILAG, as she visited the Nord UNILAG Assembly Plant, research and development section, manufacturing and assembly line workshop, and showroom where completed projects are displayed in an exquisite floor-to-ceiling glass display.

Bola Oboh, deputy vice-chancellor in charge of academics and research at UNILAG, who represented Folasade Ogunsola, the vice-chancellor, noted that the yearly internship opportunity at Nord Automobile is not limited to students in the engineering field but also accommodates UNILAG students in other fields.

‘This is indeed made possible by the strategic plan of UNILAG to enter into an agreement with Nord Automobile, where, as part of the University’s MoU with the company, UNILAG students gain valuable knowledge and experience through yearly internships at Nord Automobile,’ she explained.

Oboh posited that it was symbolic and prestigious for the university that the minister made her visit on such an auspicious day for such an important and inspiring moment, where she picked her official vehicle assembled not just by Nigerians in Nigeria, but assembled right on the soil of her alma mater, the University of Lagos.

This, the deputy vice-chancellor asserted, will go on to motivate many Nigerians to dream out loud and believe in the limitless possibilities that abound in Nigeria for Nigerians. And the University of Lagos is proud to be a part of it.

The partnership between UNILAG and Nord Motions, established in July 2022, remains the first university-based automobile assembly plant and manufacturing hub in Africa.

This groundbreaking collaboration provides students with hands-on experience in automobile manufacturing, fosters cutting-edge research and development, and extends into emerging technologies such as electric vehicle and drone assembly for commercial and security purposes.

The story of Nord Motion on the Akoka campus illustrates how knowledge, skill, and vision converge to produce enterprises that speak to Nigeria’s limitless potential.

According to the institution, ‘Presently, Nord Motions can assemble five vehicles at its UNILAG Assembly Plant. Having Nigerian-assembled vehicles come out of the University of Lagos further reinforces the institution’s identity as ‘the university of first choice, and the nation’s pride’.

‘This milestone is not only a testament to the nation’s faith in indigenous enterprise but also a glowing endorsement of UNILAG’s pioneering role in bridging academia and industry.’

The Chartered Institute of Educational Practitioners, United Kingdom (CIEPUK), says it will launch a Global Southern Studies/Research Centre (GSSRC) at Paul University, Awka, in partnership with Soochow University, China.

The unveiling of the centre is scheduled for Oct. 17 at the Nwawka Auditorium, Paul University.

According to CIEPUK, the centre aims to enhance academic collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development across the Global South.

It will also serve as a hub for research, knowledge exchange, and international partnerships.

CIEPUK’s African regional office is located at Paul University, where the centre will be based.

Key research areas include technology, climate change, agriculture, health sciences, social development, and cultural exchange.

Officials from the three partner institutions described the initiative as a milestone in academic diplomacy and a model for South-South cooperation and sustainable progress.

The Consular Representative of China in Nigeria is expected to attend the launch.

Marcel Ezenwoye, CIEPUK Global President, who also serves as Director of the Pre-degree Programme at Paul University, signed the formal announcement.

Ezenwoye said the centre would support cross-border collaboration and foster innovative solutions to development challenges.

He added that it would also promote cultural understanding through academic exchange.

Organisers said the centre would facilitate joint publications, patents, policy research, and scholarships, in addition to offering training and exchange opportunities for Nigerian students and researchers.

Stakeholders said the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s role in global research partnerships and align with both national and regional development goals.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, academics, students, and international guests.