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The Federal Government has called for greater investments in technology hubs, innovation spaces, and ecosystem builders across Nigeria, identifying them as essential engines for cultivating talent, empowering entrepreneurs, and driving the nation’s digital economy.

Speaking in Abuja at the National Innovation Hub Standards Framework Validation Workshop, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, emphasised that Nigeria cannot achieve a diversified and prosperous economy without directly strengthening the support systems that nurture innovation.

Tijani noted that while high-profile tech startups often capture public attention, the underlying innovation hubs and grassroots communities that make their success possible are frequently overlooked.

He highlighted hub managers and physical co-working spaces as vital anchor points where young talent, creators, and entrepreneurs can collaborate, build networks, and turn original concepts into viable businesses.

Ultimately, the Minister stressed that investing in these foundational hubs provides the ideal environment for young Nigerians to craft local solutions to societal challenges while creating meaningful employment opportunities across the country.

The minister, who drew from his previous experience managing a technology hub, said Nigeria’s growing technology ecosystem was partly driven by the emergence of spaces that provide entrepreneurs with access to knowledge, mentorship, networks and other forms of support.

He noted that the country’s increasing number of successful technology companies demonstrated the enormous potential of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem, but warned that this potential could not be fully realised without stronger support structures for ecosystem builders.

Tijani stressed that government’s investment in digital infrastructure must be matched with adequate investment in the people and institutions capable of transforming infrastructure into economic opportunities.

He highlighted ongoing federal government efforts to expand digital infrastructure through investments in fibre-optic connectivity, telecommunications infrastructure and satellite technology to extend digital access to underserved and hard-to-reach communities.

He added that government was also strengthening other components of the digital ecosystem, including digital identity and cloud infrastructure, through new policies and strategic interventions. Applying For Government Grants

The minister, however, maintained that infrastructure alone would not deliver the desired economic transformation if innovation hubs across the country lacked the resources and capacity required to attract and retain skilled personnel.

‘Imagine if we had all the hubs in Nigeria at the same level of quality as the best hubs in the country. There would be more technology businesses, more innovation and better opportunities across the country,’ he said.

Tijani also advocated greater documentation and transfer of knowledge from successful innovation ecosystems around the world to Nigerian technology hub managers, saying lessons from global best practices could help strengthen local innovation communities.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure, describing secure connectivity, data sovereignty and locally developed technology as critical drivers of productivity and economic growth.

Oyedele gave the assurance during a visit to the headquarters of Galaxy Backbone Limited in Abuja, where he inspected the organisation’s digital infrastructure and received a briefing on its operations, capabilities and expansion plans.

The minister said digital infrastructure should be treated as a core economic asset, advising that Nigeria must invest deliberately in the systems required to support efficient government services, innovation, business growth and national competitiveness.

‘Digital infrastructure is no longer simply a technology conversation; it is an economic and national development imperative. We must intentionally invest in connectivity, secure platforms and data infrastructure, while giving greater consideration to Nigerian solutions across software, hardware and digital services,’ Oyedele said.

He stressed that the government’s ‘Buy Nigeria’ initiative provides an important opportunity to strengthen indigenous capacity, retain value within the economy and reduce dependence on foreign technology providers.

He added that data sovereignty and digital sovereignty must remain central to Nigeria’s economic and security considerations.

Oyedele commended Galaxy Backbone for its role in providing shared digital infrastructure and secure services to ministries, departments and agencies, as well as its investment in data centres, cybersecurity capabilities and government digital platforms.

He assured the organisation of the Ministry’s support while encouraging its management to strengthen partnerships, expand its services and pursue a more sustainable operational model capable of delivering greater value across all tiers of government.

Earlier, the management of Galaxy Backbone highlighted the organisation’s role in connecting government institutions, protecting public-sector data, enabling digital services and reducing duplication across government. It also sought continued policy and investment support to expand its fibre network, data-centre capacity and cybersecurity infrastructure.

The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Finance and strategic public institutions whose operations are central to Nigeria’s economic transformation and the delivery of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State has commenced moves to reconcile aggrieved members and strengthen cooperation among its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s campaign council and leadership made the call at a strategic meeting with the governorship candidate, senatorial candidates, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly candidates, as well as other leaders of the party and campaign council.

The meeting, which focused on internal reconciliation, party discipline, grassroots mobilisation and coordinated campaigning, was aimed at ensuring that the party presents a united front in the 2027 elections.

Speaking at the meeting, the Acting Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, urged the candidates to put aside their individual differences and work collectively for the success of the party.

Lawal said the ability of the candidates and party structures to work together would be critical to the party’s performance at the polls.

He said, ‘The task ahead requires unity, commitment and genuine teamwork. If we are determined to win, every candidate must support one another and ensure that our message gets to the people across all the wards and local governments of Oyo State.’

The Director-General of the APM Campaign Council, Dr Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, said the council was committed to delivering victory for all the party’s candidates, rather than concentrating solely on the governorship election.

Adeniran also said the council had the responsibility of mobilising support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential ambition in Oyo State.

He urged the candidates to take the party’s campaign to every part of the state, saying the APM logo, candidates and campaign message must become familiar to voters at the grassroots.

‘We must reach every nook and cranny of Oyo State. Our logo, our candidates and our message must get to the doorstep of every household,’ he said.

The campaign council DG further called for genuine reconciliation among party members, urging candidates to return to their respective constituencies and resolve lingering disagreements.

According to him, candidates should avoid unnecessary conflicts and focus their energy on building the party ahead of the elections.

Adeniran said, ‘We need serious and genuine reconciliation. Go back to your localities, resolve the issues and work together. There is no need for unnecessary battles when what we are pursuing is a collective victory.’

He also stressed the need for party discipline, effective mobilisation, proper branding and adequate campaign materials, announcing plans for reconciliation meetings across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The APM State Chairman, Otunba Adegbenro Fagbemi, similarly urged the candidates and party members to work ‘hand in hand’ to achieve the party’s objectives.

Also speaking, the Alliance Party Chairman, Hon Dayo Ogungbenro, described Governor Makinde as a pillar of hope in Oyo State and called for cooperation among the political actors within the coalition.

The APM governorship candidate, Hon Bimbo Adekanmbi, commended the party leadership and campaign council for convening the meeting.

Adekanmbi said the achievements recorded under the Makinde administration had provided the party with a strong basis for its campaign, urging members to take the message to the electorate.

He said, ‘We must take our message to the people and work together for the success of Governor Makinde and all APM candidates in the 2027 elections.’

Speaking on behalf of the Oyo Central Senatorial candidate, Ambassador Ajadi, Hon Sikiru Sanda appreciated the party leadership for its guidance, assuring that the concerns raised at the meeting would be addressed.

Representing the State House of Assembly candidates, Hon Sunkanmi Babalola also pledged to work with other candidates and party leaders to resolve areas of concern.

Hon Najeem Oyesina, popularly known as Oshine, thanked Governor Makinde, the Deputy Governor, the campaign council and other party leaders for providing a platform for dialogue.

He pledged that the candidates would strengthen their collaboration as the party prepares for the elections.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Coordinator of the Presidential Campaign, Hon Saheed Arowosaye; Deputy Director-General, Oyo North, Hon Siju Lawal; Deputy Director-General, Oyo South, Hon Ademola Ojo; Deputy Director-General, Oyo Central, Dr Femi Ojo; Director of Women Mobilisation, Hon Ramota Agberemi Dabo; Director of Youth Mobilisation, Hon Kazeem Bolarinwa, among others.

The party leadership expressed optimism that the reconciliation process, improved coordination and stronger grassroots mobilisation would enhance the chances of APM candidates across the various elective positions in the 2027 elections.

THE countdown to the 2027 elections is gradually approaching. While the official ban on electioneering has been lifted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), candidates for the epic battle have intensified intense horse trading, throwing up crucial issues that ought to sway prospective voters. Central are the economy, infrastructure, food security, human capital development and the issue of security of lives and property.

The menace of insecurity, which has devastated mostly such states as Niger, Borno, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Benue, Kogi, Zamfara and Kebbi , has taken different facets, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, abduction and banditry. Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa underlined the deep concern of the authorities on the blistering state of security in the land. Ditto the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who cited illiteracy among other vulnerabilities that act as catalysts for insecurity, particularly across the North. He said the condition makes it for criminally minded few to lure and recruit mostly the youths in the region hitherto known for peace and stability. Coupled with this is what he considers as the influx of small arms, corruption, and injustice. ‘This is why groups like Boko Haram and other extremist organisations exploit to take advantage to exploit vulnerabilities by offering alternative narratives that promise belonging, purpose, and at times financial benefits for coercion,’ he stated. Part of his recommendation, to tame the menace, he said is for all the authorities to collaborate and ‘come up with a realistic template of bridging the gap in school enrollment.’

General Christopher Musa, gave a deeper insight into why the battle against extreme criminality remains nagging and protracted. One of his submissions on the activities of insurgents, banditry and others bothers on conspiracy. ‘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.’

Yet, another main stakeholder in the North and spokesman for the seventh House of Representatives, Honourable Zakari Muhammed, equally dissected the menace of insecurity in the North. The criminologist listed lack of education, radicalisation of religion by people for economic gains as part of the cause of insecurity. ‘The third reason for escalating insecurity is the lack of political will because to him, banditry, Boko Haram insurgency, and kidnapping have been franchised in such a way that some elements – including some people in government – do not want the insecurity to end because of the enormous resources involved.’ Therefore, he advocates stronger deployment of technology in the fight against terrorism. If you can send a drone to their locations, you can also use the same drone to neutralise them.

North-West security summit

In Zamfara, both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches have been adopted to fight bandits. There was a time the authorities had no flight zones in the bid to crush the criminals. To up the ante, the state government convened a summit as part of the ongoing efforts to flush out bandits and other criminal elements wreaking havoc on communities. Governor Dauda Lawal admitted the problem as he said: ‘This is a test from Almighty Allah, and we will certainly overcome it through prayer and sustained investment in military hardware to defeat the terrorists.’ The activities of bandits have not only manifested in the spectre of violence in many communities, disruption of agricultural production, displacement of families, sacking of children of school and destruction of livelihoods, putting credibility of the government to protect lives and property at stake.

The North-West security summit, held recently thus provided an opportunity for the governor to expose the underbelly of bandits that had maimed and killed over the years. The theme of the summit was ‘Appraising the Security Challenges in the Northwest Zone’. Governor Lawal did not mince words on the resolve of his administration to stamp out banditry in his domain. He asserted that there will be no retreat and no surrender in the war on the bandits. His resolve is that the country was poised to neutralise those few elements that are bent on making life miserable for the citizens and mortgaging the future of Nigeria.

For Governor Lawal, negotiating with the terrorists would mean not only surrendering the authority of the state to them, but would also encourage other criminal groups to embrace the same violent path. In good conscience, negotiating with such criminal groups from their position of perceived advantage-after they have taken innocent people hostage and intimidated them with their capacity to unleash terror-is unacceptable to Governor Lawal. His position is tough opposition to any form of negotiation with the terrorists. It is about refusing to accept a security strategy that allows the criminal groups to exploit state boundaries, weak intelligence coordination, and gaps in military operations to continue to wreak havoc on the people. It underlines his ‘No Retreat, No Surrender’ proclamation. It also underscores the choice of Zamfara as the venue for the summit. By hosting security chiefs, Governor Lawal was able to once again place the realities confronting his people directly before them. Thus, he used the opportunity to insist that the North-West security crisis demands coordinated action and a strategy capable of producing results. Governor Lawal canvassed for immediate workable strategies, coordinated action among the North-west states and for the security establishment to confront the wider criminal ecosystem that makes the attacks possible. He acknowledged that banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling are not isolated criminal acts confined to the North-West states, but manifestations of organised criminal groups that cut across boundaries, with devastating consequences for livelihoods, food security and the social fabric of the society. Criminal networks do not respect state boundaries; therefore, the security response cannot remain trapped within specific states. To defeat them, security operations must be coordinated across the states, including Niger State in the North-Central, with intelligence shared and actions synchronised across these state lines. This is where Governor Lawal’s argument about simultaneous military actions assumes significance beyond Zamfara State. A terrorist group operating in Zamfara State can easily move into Sokoto, Katsina or Kebbi States, establish new bases, recruit fresh members and cultivate local informants-an often-neglected factor in the security crisis. When military operations intensify in one state, these groups exploit gaps in coordination to move into another, making intelligence-sharing and synchronised operations across state lines essential to tracking their movements, disrupting their networks and preventing them from launching further attacks.

For Governor Lawal, the logical way forward is therefore a coordinated North-west security architecture in which the seven states work closely with the Federal Government and the security agencies, sharing intelligence in real time, coordinating operations and ensuring that criminal groups can no longer exploit state boundaries to escape. Such a unified approach, he believes, would be a game changer in the fight against terrorism by denying the criminals the safe havens and escape routes they have long exploited. He said there must be no safe havens, no escape routes and no gaps for them to exploit, which will make coordinated regional operations a far more effective weapon in the fight against terrorism and banditry. Besides, he said the war requires dismantling the ecosystem that sustains them – the money, intelligence, logistics, weapons, food, transportation and local collaborators that enable these groups to operate. He said the state must pursue not only those waging violence against the people, but also the networks that finance, supply, shelter and facilitate them. This means strengthening financial intelligence, stopping the payment of ransom and other illicit revenue flows, dismantling supply chains, monitoring vulnerable corridors, improving grassroots intelligence and ensuring that those who knowingly facilitate criminal activities are identified and prosecuted.

The role of local collaborators, he said, is particularly important. This is because criminal groups have, over the years, incubated and survived not only through their capacity for violence, but also through a network of local collaborators who are critical to their operations. But it must be stressed that the overwhelming majority of people living in Zamfara’s affected communities are victims of terrorism. They have lost relatives, homes, farms, businesses and years of their lives to unprecedented violence and should never be collectively portrayed as collaborators.

Without dismantling these internal support networks, military operations risk addressing only the visible symptoms of the crisis while leaving the underlying structure intact. This is also why intelligence sharing must be part of the regional security strategy. The people living in the villages know their environment better than any security operative that is new to the area. They observe unusual movements and recognise strangers. Properly organised and responsibly integrated into the formal security architecture, intelligence gathered in the communities can provide the early warning that allows conventional forces to act before an attack occurs.

It is worth noting that the Inspector-General of Police, Tajudeen Disu, agrees with Governor Lawal on the need for a united regional front and that the security of the North-west is a collective responsibility. And that his emphasis on cross-state collaboration, intelligence-sharing and joint operations reinforces the central argument of the summit that no individual state can defeat a criminal network whose operational theatre extends across several states.

Bugged down by avoidable calamities and deprivation occasioned by banditry, residents of Zamfara have had to look up to the state government for succor and renewed hope, especially in the last three years. So, Governor Lawal, has initiated measures to restore public confidence in the system. Since June 2023, he has held repeated meetings with security chiefs, police commissioners and military commanders, followed by engagements with the NSA, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and President Bola Tinubu. At each meeting, the message has remained consistent: Zamfara State needs a more coordinated response, more effective intelligence and a military strategy that looks at the entire North West.

On the institutional front, his administration established the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund, inaugurated its 21-member Board of Trustees in February 2024 and commissioned its integrated office complex the following month. The initiative was designed to create a structure for mobilising and directing resources towards the security challenge. He also launched the Zamfara State Community Protection Guards in January 2024, providing a locally rooted mechanism intended to complement conventional security operations and strengthen intelligence-gathering at the grassroots. The decision to restrict traditional rulers from issuing mining licences was also aimed at curbing illegal mining activities that have been associated with the financing of armed groups. Technology has also entered the equation, with the state hosting a course on Artificial Intelligence as a potential security instrument. Governor Lawal in his interaction with the UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed announced his administration’s intention to deploy advanced technology in the fight against insecurity

Conclusion

No doubt, the protracted battle against banditry and other forms of extremism has left many communities in the North-West almost prostrate. The raging insecurity scares potential investors and imperils agriculture, the economic mainstay of the zone. Many companies and businesses have stopped operations because of insurgency. Banditry has created an atmosphere of fear, with farmers fleeing from ancestral homes. According to some experts, the disruption has resulted in a drastic decline in food production. Therefore, the summit could not have come at a better time in the North-West.

National chairman of Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Phase Two, Ibena Rufus Salvation, has urged beneficiaries of the scheme to appreciate the educational support provided to them.

Ibena stated this on Sunday while reacting to an online publication alleging delays in the payment of allowances to some students of the Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State.

He said scholarship beneficiaries should recognise the primary purpose of scholarship schemes as educational support, particularly the payment of school fees, rather than assuming that such support must necessarily cover accommodation, feeding, and other personal expenses.

He said: ‘In a civilised world, where scholarship is given to someone, that scholarship will only take care of the responsibility of their school fees. Not even accommodation, regardless of feeding or stipend. It is not done anywhere.’

He appealed to beneficiaries to understand the distinction between scholarship support and comprehensive financial sponsorship, stressing that students should appreciate assistance received from individuals or government-backed interventions.

According to him, where an office holder, administrator, or individual chooses to support people through what he described as a philanthropic gesture, beneficiaries should not take such assistance for granted.

‘If the office and the administrator, on his own philanthropic character, has somebody who has the will, the political will to help his people, people should not take that for granted,’ he said.

He also suggested that students facing exceptional personal circumstances, including orphans, could continue to seek additional assistance, but cautioned against responding to support with what he described as ingratitude.

‘If some students are orphans or face genuine financial challenges, they should continue to seek assistance where necessary, especially for their educational needs,’ he said.

Ibena urged the beneficiaries to remain appreciative of the support they receive, saying, rather than respond with anger, they should recognise and appreciate the assistance provided to them.

THE Nigerian literary community has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran poet, Chief Alabi Ogundepo, whose passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the country’s cultural and literary history.

Ogundepo, who died on Monday at the age of 84, was more than a poet. To many admirers, he was a custodian of culture, a storyteller and a passionate advocate of indigenous values whose works reflected the richness of Yoruba traditions and the Nigerian experience.

Born in Saki, Oyo State, Ogundepo dedicated a significant part of his life to the promotion of literature and cultural expression. Through poetry and public engagements, he preserved stories, traditions and values that might otherwise have faded with time.

His writings resonated with readers across generations, earning him respect within literary and cultural circles.

The announcement of his death by the family sparked tributes from admirers, who described him as a literary icon.

In a statement, family representative, Dupe Ogundepo-Falana, said the late poet’s contributions to Nigerian literature would continue to inspire many people.

For decades, Ogundepo’s works served as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting younger generations with their heritage while encouraging appreciation for the power of words and artistic expression. His poetry often reflected themes of identity, morality, community and cultural pride.

Beyond his literary accomplishments, those who knew him remember him as a mentor and advocate for the preservation of indigenous languages and cultural values.

His influence extended beyond the pages of his books, touching the lives of writers, students and cultural enthusiasts.

As family members prepare to announce funeral arrangements, tributes continue to pour in from across the country. While Chief Alabi Ogundepo has departed, his legacy remains firmly etched in Nigeria’s literary landscape.

His death may have silenced a distinguished poetic voice, but the words he left behind will continue to speak for generations to come.

The District Head of Lailaba and Sarkin Gobir Lailaba in Kebbi State, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Mera, has advocated grassroots action to fight malaria in the country.

Alhaji Muhammad Mera tasked traditional rulers, community leaders, governments and development partners with strengthening collective efforts towards eliminating malaria in Nigeria.

The monarch made the call recently during a courtesy visit to his palace.

Receiving the competition’s Activator, Aminu Ahmad Zubairu, he called for renewed action against malaria at both global and grassroots levels, stressing the need for sustained investment, community mobilisation and stronger multisectoral collaboration to prevent the disease from regaining ground.

Alhaji Muhammad Mera, who endorsed the nationwide Geneith Health Competition during the visit, stressed that malaria remains a major threat to vulnerable populations, particularly those living in underserved communities. He warned that progress could be reversed whenever attention and resources devoted to the fight against the disease decline.

‘With strong commitment, sustained investment, multisectoral action, and community engagement, malaria can be defeated,’ he said.

Alhaji Muhammad Mera added, ‘Malaria is a killer disease, and anything that supports its eradication is welcome. Our students are ready to take up the challenge and excel in this competition.’

The Sarkin Gobir Lailaba called for the active involvement of young people in malaria prevention and health advocacy, urging stakeholders to ensure that students in rural and hard-to-reach communities are not left behind.

Alhaji Muhammad Mera declared that the Lailaba community would support the participation of its students in the competition, saying equipping young people with health knowledge and advocacy skills would help extend vital information from schools into homes and communities across Kebbi State.

He stressed that empowering students as health ambassadors would create a generation capable of championing malaria prevention, encouraging early treatment and promoting healthier practices within their communities.

‘This is the kind of initiative the world must rally behind to foster sustainable healthcare solutions, bridge critical awareness gaps, and mobilise local actors against preventable diseases,’ he said.

While urging other traditional rulers, community leaders and corporate organisations across the country to support the initiative, the monarch stressed that traditional institutions have a critical role to play in driving sustainable health interventions at the grassroots.

‘The support for the Geneith Health Competition is growing, and we must capitalise on this momentum. I urge all levels of government, private organisations, and community leaders to come together and support this initiative. Our united efforts are essential in effectively combating malaria and safeguarding the health of our citizens,’ he said.

Reaffirming the commitment of the Gobir Traditional Council to public health, the monarch described collective action as essential to achieving a malaria-free society, saying, ‘It is our collective responsibility to prioritise health initiatives and mobilise resources to create a malaria-free future.’

The competition’s Activator, Aminu Ahmad Zubairu, responding to the royal endorsement, expressed appreciation to the monarch for supporting the youth-focused initiative.

‘We are immensely grateful to His Royal Highness, Sarkin Gobir Lailaba, for opening his doors to us and standing firmly behind this youth-centred movement.

‘His royal blessings serve as a powerful catalyst that will inspire students across Kebbi State to actively join the fight for a malaria-free Nigeria.’

The leadership of the Geneith Health Competition, under the vision of its initiator and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor, alongside the sponsor, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, also expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler for his support.

Prince Ilobanafor said the initiative was designed to transform students from passive recipients of health information into active ambassadors in the fight against malaria.

‘Malaria is Nigeria’s deadliest enemy, causing economic deprivation and loss of lives. Through this competition, our goal is to see students become ambassadors for a malaria-free Nigeria,’ he said.

Prince Ilobanafor stressed that the backing of respected traditional institutions was crucial to expanding grassroots participation, strengthening community ownership and ensuring that malaria education reaches households across the country.

Organised by CEOAFRICA in partnership with the Department of Public Health and sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, the Geneith Health Competition targets secondary and tertiary students across Nigeria at state, regional and national levels.

The initiative combines health education, advocacy and competition, with scholarships, academic rewards and other prizes valued at over ?1 billion available to participating students.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Federal Government of Nigeria have rallied employers, workers, development partners and youth stakeholders behind a renewed national strategy to tackle unemployment and underemployment among young Nigerians.

Relevant stakeholders gathered on Monday at the United Nations building in Abuja to Kickstarter the review of the Nigerian Youth Employment Action Plan (NIYEAP) 2025-2030.

The meeting was convened by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, with technical support from the ILO through its Strengthening Employment and Employability Systems in Nigeria (SEESIN) project, under the GIZ-SKYE II Programme.

Speaking at the event, ILO Director, Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone and Liaison Office for ECOWAS, Vanessa Phala, said the review offered Nigeria an opportunity to develop a more coherent, realistic and results-oriented response to the youth employment challenge.

Phala, represented by ILO Abuja Office SEESIN National Project Coordinator, Aisha Dirisu, said the revised plan must be ‘evidence-based, implementation-oriented, inclusive and private-sector-responsive,’ with emphasis on youth employment, employability, entrepreneurship, decent work and equal rights and opportunities.

She said the review would assess the implementation of NIYEAP 2021-2024, identify what worked and what did not, and translate the lessons into a stronger framework for 2025-2030.

‘Youth employment is a multi-sectoral issue, and its effective implementation requires strong coordination across government institutions, social partners, the private sector, development partners, youth organisations and other stakeholders,’ Dirisu said.

She identified digital and green economies, artificial intelligence, creative industries, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, manufacturing, agro-processing, tourism, the care economy and platform-based work as emerging areas with significant potential for youth employment.

In his goodwill message, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, represented by Assistant Director, Employment and Wages Department, Cecilia Williams, called for closer alignment between NIYEAP and the revised National Employment Policy (NEP) 2025.

Dingyadi said youth employment could not be treated as a standalone intervention, stressing the need for policy coherence, institutional coordination, adequate financing, monitoring and accountability.

‘Creating jobs for young people is important, but we must also ensure that those jobs provide fair opportunities, appropriate working conditions, rights at work, social protection and pathways for sustainable career development,’ he said.

Representing NLC President Joe Ajaero, the Congress’ Women and Youth Department representative, Ifeoma Esther, said the review was timely, describing Nigerian youth as the country’s largest demographic segment and a major asset for future development.

Ajaero said young Nigerians possessed ‘the energy, creativity, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit required to transform our economy,’ but warned that unemployment, skills gaps, limited access to finance, weak school-to-work transitions and unequal opportunities continued to constrain their prospects.

Also contributing, Ngo Okumaykong, Deputy Director, Department of Enterprise Development and Promotion, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, described NIYEAP as a roadmap for employability and employment, stressing the need for coordinated implementation.

The consultation brought together representatives of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development; Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment; ILO; GIZ; Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA); Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and other relevant MDAs, development partners, private-sector and youth stakeholders.

The collaboration with GIZ is being advanced through the SKYE II programme, with SEESIN supporting stronger employment governance, skills development, labour-market services and inclusive opportunities for young people.

The stakeholders agreed that the revised NIYEAP must move beyond policy declarations to clearly defined responsibilities, financing, implementation mechanisms and measurable outcomes, ensuring that Nigeria’s young population can access decent, productive and freely chosen employment. The four established NIYEAP priority areas are employability, entrepreneurship, employment, and equality and rights.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has mourned the death of former newspaper editor and publisher of Eagles Online, Samson Dotun Oladipo, describing his passing as a great loss to the journalism profession and the wider media community.

Tribune Online reports that Oladipo, a veteran journalist, died on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 56.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, on Wednesday, the NGE described Oladipo as ‘a gentleman, distinguished journalist, former newspaper editor, and publisher of Eagles Online.’

The guild said Oladipo distinguished himself throughout his career through professionalism, courage, intellectual depth and commitment to journalism and nation building.

‘In a career spanning several decades, Oladipo distinguished himself through professionalism, courage, intellectual depth and an unwavering commitment to the principles of journalism and nation building. His contributions to journalism and the media industry left an indelible mark,’ the statement said.

The NGE noted that as a publisher of an online publication, Oladipo was deeply committed to the growth and development of the Nigerian media and the digital landscape.

It also described him as a committed member of the guild whose contributions strengthened the professional body and reflected his belief in professional solidarity and the promotion of ethical, credible and responsible journalism.

According to the guild, Oladipo was not only a media practitioner but also a respected colleague, mentor and contributor to the continuing evolution of the Nigerian media landscape.

The NGE said his death was a major loss to his family, colleagues, the journalism profession and the wider media community.

‘His death is a great loss to his family, colleagues, the journalism profession and the wider media community. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, professional excellence, courage and service that will continue to inspire those who knew and worked with him,’ the guild noted.

The Guild of Editors extended their condolences to Oladipo’s immediate family, colleagues, friends and associates, praying that God would grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.

‘May Sampson Dotun Oladipo’s memory remain a blessing to those who knew him, and may his contributions to journalism endure,’ the statement added.

Nigeria is targeting 70 per cent local production of medicines by ramping up domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, with the Coordinating Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, set to lead federal officials to the 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo in Lagos this September.

The two-day event, scheduled for September 28 and 29, 2026, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, will focus on strategies to boost local pharmaceutical manufacturing and position Nigeria as a major pharmaceutical production hub in Africa.

The expo is being organised by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) in partnership with GPE Expo Pvt. Ltd. It will hold alongside the Nigeria Lab Expo under the theme, ‘Regional Manufacturing: Advancing Africa’s Pharma and Lifescience Sovereignty through Localization.’

The push for greater local production comes as Nigeria records a significant decline in its dependence on imported finished pharmaceutical products.

Other dignitaries expected at the event include the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh; the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako; the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Moji Christianah Adeyeye; the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed; the Special Adviser to the President on Health; and the Director-General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA).

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the Chairman of the NPME Committee, Patrick Ajah, who represented the Chief Host, Oluwatosin Jolayemi, said the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector was committed to achieving the 70 per cent local production target.

He said the expo would provide a platform for attracting foreign direct investment, facilitating technical partnerships, promoting local sourcing of raw materials and strengthening the capacity of Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturers.

He added that more than 200 companies were expected to exhibit at the event, while nearly 10,000 healthcare professionals, regulatory experts, manufacturers and equipment providers were projected to attend.

Ajah said the expected outcomes of the expo would contribute to the development of policy frameworks to support reforms in pharmaceutical regulation, financing, manufacturing and supply chains across Nigeria and the wider African continent.

He said the initiative aligned with the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), which seeks to move Nigeria’s healthcare sector away from heavy import dependence towards commercialisation, local manufacturing, technology transfer and stronger domestic value chains.

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of PMG-MAN, Pharm. Frank Muonemeh, said official NAFDAC data showed that imports of finished pharmaceutical products had fallen from 4.03 billion units to 1.13 billion units as of 2025.

According to him, the development had helped narrow the ratio of imported to locally produced essential medicines to approximately 50:50.

Muonemeh described the trend as evidence that Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturers had the technical capacity to meet a substantial proportion of domestic demand when supported by an enabling business environment.

He also cited improvements in Nigeria’s regulatory environment, noting that NAFDAC had attained World Health Organisation Maturity Level 3 and was working towards Level 4.

He said the regulatory improvements had enabled some Nigerian manufacturers to secure WHO prequalification and undertake contract manufacturing for international brands.

However, Muonemeh warned that continued dependence on imported medicines remained a threat to national health security, particularly during global health emergencies, geopolitical conflicts, border closures and disruptions to international supply chains.

He argued that building a resilient domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing ecosystem should no longer be regarded merely as an economic objective but as a critical component of Nigeria’s public health security and national sovereignty.

Muonemeh identified high energy costs, limited access to long-term financing, regulatory bottlenecks, shortages of technical manpower partly caused by the ‘Japa’ phenomenon and inconsistent public procurement policies as major challenges confronting local manufacturers.

He disclosed that pharmaceutical manufacturers currently spent more than 40 per cent of their income on electricity and alternative power generation, compared with less than 10 per cent reportedly spent by competitors in manufacturing hubs such as China and India.

He therefore called for targeted government intervention, including dedicated industrial energy tariffs, to improve the competitiveness of Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturers.

The Executive Director of Drugfield Pharma Ltd, Olusola Akande, also called for expanded incentives for local pharmaceutical production, particularly in the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and specialised excipients.

Akande said existing interventions, including the Presidential Executive Order, currently covered only about five per cent of the APIs and specialised excipients required by local manufacturers.

He urged the Federal Government to expand tax exemptions and other incentives for the domestic production of pharmaceutical raw materials, saying the measures would increase manufacturing capacity, lower production costs and improve access to affordable medicines.

PMG-MAN also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to extend the Presidential Executive Order from its current two-year duration to five years, arguing that a longer policy window would give manufacturers the certainty required for sustained capital investment and industrial expansion.

Muonemeh described NPME 2026 as a strategic platform for transforming Africa’s pharmaceutical and life sciences industry through technology transfer, contract manufacturing agreements, market access and local pharmaceutical synthesis.

He said the expo would differ from conventional trade fairs by prioritising manufacturers and technologies capable of directly supporting local production rather than serving primarily as a marketplace for imported finished medicines.

According to him, foreign exhibitors would largely comprise companies supplying pharmaceutical machinery, analytical instruments, production materials and technologies that were either unavailable or insufficiently produced locally.

He said the approach would ensure that international participation contributed directly to strengthening Nigeria’s domestic manufacturing capacity.

Ajah also stressed the importance of indigenous pharmaceutical production, noting that recent global health emergencies had exposed the vulnerabilities of countries that rely heavily on foreign suppliers for essential medicines.

He assured that Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturers remained committed to global Good Manufacturing Practice standards, with quality control, quality assurance and supply management systems in place to ensure compliance.

He warned that manufacturers and distributors involved in counterfeit or substandard medicines would face regulatory and law enforcement action.

Ajah further highlighted PMG-MAN’s 43-year history of advocacy for pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria, noting that the organisation had grown from 20 pioneer members in 1983 to more than 200 companies.

He said the sector’s growth had contributed to employment generation, tax revenue and a gradual reduction in Nigeria’s dependence on imported medicines, stressing that achieving the 70 per cent local production target was critical to the country’s health security and industrial development.

The organisers have invited global healthcare investors, biotechnology companies, venture capitalists, raw material suppliers, equipment manufacturers, development finance institutions and African policymakers to participate in the Lagos expo.

PMG-MAN said the event would create opportunities for cross-border partnerships, investment, technology acquisition and market expansion while promoting greater integration of Africa’s pharmaceutical industry under the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Medicines Agency framework.

With senior officials from the health and industry sectors expected to attend, the organisers said the formal opening of NPME 2026 would reinforce the Federal Government’s commitment to building a stronger domestic pharmaceutical industry and positioning Nigeria as a leading healthcare manufacturing hub in Africa.