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The Executive Chairman of Onigbongbo LCDA, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, has reaffirmed the council’s commitment to positioning Onigbongbo as the gateway of tourism and hospitality in Lagos.

Speaking at the Tourism and Hospitality Symposium, the Chairman highlighted Onigbongbo’s unique role as the first point of contact for many visitors arriving in Lagos, with its thriving hospitality sector along Allen, Opebi, Toyin, Kudirat Abiola, and Ikeja GRA.

He emphasised that tourism is not just leisure but a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, aligning with his administration’s F.I.N.E Agenda – Foster economic growth, Invest in people, Nurture enterprise, and Ensure wellbeing.

Adebanjo announced the upcoming Onigbongbo Spark Fest 2025, a landmark yuletide festival designed to light up our cityscape, attract visitors, and transform Onigbongbo into a yuletide destination to rival Victoria Island and Lekki. He also unveiled plans for a digital hospitality directory powered by QR codes, which will be placed at airports and strategic locations across Lagos, offering visitors access to local hotels, restaurants, and nightlife operators with a 10% discount incentive.

The Chairman assured tourism and hospitality stakeholders of the government’s readiness to collaborate with the private sector in driving visibility, investment, and growth, stating: ‘Together, we will make tourism the heartbeat of development in Onigbongbo LCDA.’

Built environment professionals under the auspices of Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) Iru – Victoria Island Cell have raised the alarm over what they described as ‘imperfect’ sub-soil investigations in the coastal region of Lagos State.

The professionals pointed out that investigations have shown that substandard sub-soil test was fuelling building collapse in Lagos State, expressing worry that lack of effective regulatory monitoring of geotechnical practice in the metropolis portends future incidents in Iru – Victoria Island LCDA.

They emphasised that Iru – Victoria Island Local Council Development Area is surrounded by the Five Cowrie Creek and Atlantic Ocean, arguing that conducting comprehensive sub-soil investigations in order to determine the mechanical properties and the shear strength of the soil that could bear the loading exerted by the building foundation is inevitable.

They reiterated that ensuring the integrity of sub-soil investigations is critical to safeguarding lives, properties, and investments in the coastal region of Lagos State.

The professionals called for collaborative engagement between government agencies, professional bodies, and industry stakeholders to build capacity, enforce standards, and foster transparency in soil testing operations.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator, BCPG Iru – Victoria Island Cell, Adefemi Afolabi, an architect; General Secretary,Taiwo Ayanboade, a quantity surveyor; and Public Relations Officer, Wale Oyetayo, a civil/ geotechnical engineer, the trio said that soil test remained an important exercise for building development, especially in the coastal region, in order to prevent building collapse due to foundation failure.

‘Geotechnical sub-soil investigation report, if correctly done, enables the civil/structural engineer to determine and design the most suitable foundation type for the proposed building development,’ the group said in the statement.

However, the group said that investigations have revealed that the underlying factor of execution’s cost being at variance with contract sum/budget has paved way for most of the substandard soil tests that are being conducted around.

The group also raised doubt about the integrity of the sub-soil investigation report being attached as part of building plan approval requirements.

It said that through investigations, it has identified paucity of competent drillers,strenuous process of soil text, insufficient drilling accessories, and high drilling accessories’ cost, among others as challenges being faced in the sub-soil soil text segment.

‘On the submission of application for planning permit or building plan approval, Section 4, Sub-section 3 (V) of the revised Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority Regulations, 2019 specifies that, ‘Sub-soil investigation report in the case of structures in excess of two (2) floors and all developments in areas with low bearing capacity soil where required. ‘

‘This regulation has created exponential demand for sub-soil investigations, thereby exposing the unpreparedness and limitations of geotechnical firms. Although the challenges are being endured silently by practitioners in order to protect the business from low patronage, the need to avert future disastrous consequence of downplaying the challenges necessitates bringing into the open constraints in the geotechnical field.

‘Doubts being exhibited by piling contractors, who nowadays demand for confirmatory sub-soil investigations, making clients spend double for the same exercise, are the indication that all is not well in the geotechnical sector. There is a limit to pretentiousness,’ the statement by BCPG read.

To enhance credibility of sub- soil investigations, BCPG urged that the building plan approval system should incorporate procedures capable of verifying soil test reports and minimizing the risk of copied or falsified submissions.

It stressed the establishment of the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory by law in 2006 was considered a solution to inferior geotechnical practices, but that the agency that was supposed to play the role of the disciplinarian umpire, entered into the business of soil testing, thereby competing with the firms it was established to regulate.

‘The revenue generation drive of the agency is counter-productive as standards became compromised.

‘It is high time LSMTL stopped playing the dual role of soil test monitoring and revenue generating agency through soil testing business.

‘LSMTL should now wield the big stick to sanitise the geotechnical sector. Any firm that wants to practise geotechnical investigations in the state must undergo scrutiny for possessing appropriate plants, equipment, accessories, experienced drillers, and analytical competent supervisors,’ the group said.

As way out of the woods, the BCPG Iru-Victoria Island Cell is making a case for the establishment of training school for drillers by the Lagos State Government, in conjunction with the Nigerian Institution of Geotechnical Engineers; Nigerian Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment; and other relevant bodies.

‘For a result oriented approach, field work monitoring with enforcement teams is inevitable in the aspirations for the satisfactory sub-soil investigations,’ it said.

The group reiterated that ensuring the integrity of sub-soil investigations is critical to safeguarding lives, properties, and investments in the coastal region of Lagos State.

While commendable efforts have been made in strengthening building control processes, the group said that more work remains to be done in the area of geotechnical practice.

‘By addressing the identified challenges and prioritizing professionalism above expediency, Lagos State can significantly reduce the risks of building collapse and set a sustainable example for other coastal cities in Nigeria and beyond,’ BCPG said.

A boat mishap has claimed about twenty lives in the River Niger on Tuesday at about 4:30 p.m. in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, while many others remain missing.

Tribune Online gathered from a farmer, Mr James Otoga, an eyewitness in the local government, that the tragedy occurred on Tuesday evening.

According to him, the boat, which was fully loaded with passengers, departed from Onugwa community in Ibaji and was heading to Ilushi market before it capsized, leaving an as-yet unconfirmed number of people dead.

‘The boat was fully loaded with our people going to market for the 1st October celebration. Only five survivors have surfaced so far, and 20 bodies have been recovered. More of our people are still lying lifeless beneath the River Niger.

‘Even those who came for a burial in Onugwa and were returning to Ilushi are missing. We are yet to confirm the total number of people onboard and those who survived,’ he said.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ibaji Local Government Area, Honourable Ugeh Emmanuel, described it as the most disastrous in the history of the area.

‘As I am speaking with you now, nobody can authoritatively say this is the actual number of casualties. We also cannot ascertain the number of people on board from their departure point.

‘This is a very serious accident. The boat had not even reached Ilushi when the mishap occurred around 4:30 p.m. Most of the victims were moving to Ilushi for the celebration of 1st October, which has been a tradition in the community, before they met their untimely death,’ he said.

It will be recalled that in the past year, there have been numerous boat mishaps in Kogi, Niger and other riverine states, with many lives lost.

Efforts to reach the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebanji, and the Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Suleiman Makama, proved abortive as their phones could not be reached.

Anime is full of memorable characters, intense battles, and legendary weapons. Few items capture the imagination quite like the manga katana and the Bleach sword two of the most iconic representations of power and identity in Japanese pop culture. Whether you are a casual anime fan, a serious collector, or a dedicated cosplayer, understanding these weapons helps you appreciate not just their visual appeal but also their deeper symbolic meaning. In this complete guide, we’ll explore the cultural history of the manga katana, the unique storytelling role of the Bleach sword, and why these anime blades continue to fascinate and inspire fans worldwide.

The Cultural Roots and Significance of the Manga Katana

Before appearing on manga pages, the katana was a weapon with a long and revered history. Known as the soul of the samurai, the katana was prized for its curved design, exceptional sharpness, and almost spiritual significance. The manga katana carries this tradition into modern pop culture, serving as both a practical weapon and a symbol of the protagonist’s journey.

In many popular manga series, the sword evolves alongside the hero sometimes gaining mystical powers, other times representing the user’s personal growth. The manga katana is often drawn with dramatic flair: glowing edges, intricate hilts, or supernatural auras that highlight its importance in battle.

What Makes the Bleach Sword Unique

Fans of Tite Kubo’s Bleach know that the Bleach sword, also called the Zanpakuto, is more than just a weapon. Each sword has its own personality, powers, and spiritual connection to its wielder. This is one of the reasons the Bleach sword stands out it grows as the character grows, unlocking new abilities and deeper forms such as Shikai and Bankai.

When Ichigo Kurosaki first wields his massive Zanpakuto, fans are introduced to one of the most visually striking weapons in anime. The transformation sequences, in which the Bleach sword reveals its true form, are some of the most dramatic moments in the series and perfectly illustrate how anime uses weapons as symbols of self-discovery.

Comparing Manga Katana and Bleach Sword

Both the manga katana and the Bleach sword share the traditional shape of a Japanese blade, yet they play different roles in storytelling. The manga katana is often tied to history and realism, focusing on technique, discipline, and samurai culture. The Bleach sword, on the other hand, represents the wielder’s soul and spiritual energy, making it more fantastical and deeply personal.

From a design perspective, the manga katana typically maintains the elegant curve of a traditional blade, while the Bleach sword might take on exaggerated forms oversized, segmented, or even shape-shifting reflecting the user’s power. This difference is what makes both fascinating for fans and collectors.

Collecting Anime Swords: Bringing Fiction to Reality

For many enthusiasts, owning a replica manga katana or Bleach sword is a way to bring their favorite anime moments to life. Collectors often seek authentic-looking replicas, crafted from steel or high-quality materials, to display at home.

When choosing a Bleach sword replica, fans may select from different stages of the weapon’s evolution such as Shikai or Bankai depending on which form they prefer. Similarly, a manga katana replica inspired by iconic characters like Tanjiro (Demon Slayer) or Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin) can become the centerpiece of a collection.

Cosplay and Performance

In the cosplay community, a manga katana or Bleach sword can be the perfect finishing touch to a costume. These weapons are essential for capturing the character’s essence. Cosplayers often use lightweight foam or plastic versions to meet convention safety standards, while still keeping the design accurate.

Few props get as much attention as Ichigo’s Zanpakuto the Bleach sword is massive, eye-catching, and immediately recognizable to fellow fans. Similarly, carrying a classic manga katana instantly signals your love for samurai-themed anime and manga.

Why These Anime Blades Remain Popular

The enduring appeal of both the manga katana and the Bleach sword lies in what they represent. They are not just tools for combat they are metaphors for discipline, courage, and transformation. The manga katana connects fans to the historical legacy of the samurai, while the Bleach sword reminds us that true strength comes from understanding ourselves.

These anime weapons also inspire countless artists, writers, and video game creators. They keep the tradition of swordplay alive in pop culture, giving new generations of fans a reason to fall in love with the art form.

Final Thoughts

Whether you admire the traditional elegance of the manga katana or the spiritual depth of the Bleach sword, these iconic anime blades continue to inspire passion and creativity. They appear in some of the most memorable battles, emotional character arcs, and epic storylines in manga and anime history.

For collectors, they are prized display pieces; for cosplayers, they are must-have props; and for fans, they are symbols of growth and perseverance. The next time you watch a duel or read a fight scene in manga, take a moment to appreciate what the weapon represents – whether it’s a sleek manga katana cutting through darkness or a powerful Bleach sword unleashing its Bankai. These blades are more than metal and magic – they are part of the very heart of anime storytelling.

The ongoing conciliation meeting between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and Dangote Refinery has been moved to the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).

Officials at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment confirmed the development to journalists who had gathered at the ministry’s conference room, where the meeting was originally scheduled to hold at 2 pm this afternoon.

The change of venue means the session may not commence at the earlier communicated time.

The talks follow an intensive nine-hour meeting that stretched from 3 pm yesterday until midnight. The meeting ended without full resolution, leading to today’s reconvening aimed at settling the lingering labour dispute between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, had earlier disclosed that most issues had been resolved, except for two critical matters: the reinstatement of 800 sacked workers and recognition of workers’ rights to unionise.

The ministers also noted that PENGASSAN has consistently demonstrated peaceful and responsible conduct in its actions and engagements as a trade union.

They expressed hope that both the union and Dangote Refinery would display good faith and sportsmanship when the meeting reconvenes.

They also expressed optimism that these outstanding issues would be resolved quickly in the interest of the economy, warning that the strike embarked upon by PENGASSAN could cripple economic activity if allowed to persist.

On its part, the PENGASSAN delegation led by its National President, Comrade Festus Osifo, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to dialogue but warned that the strike would continue if Dangote Refinery refuses to reinstate the 800 workers and uphold unionisation rights.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has revealed that the controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 election caused a division in her church and tested her Christian faith.

In her new memoir, ‘The Journey of Grace: Giving Thanks in All Things’, Mrs Tinubu described the episode as a ‘bitter pill’ that created discord in her parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

The 52-page book, released to mark her 65th birthday, chronicles her journey between 2021 and 2025.

Reflecting on the Muslim-Muslim ticket, she wrote: ‘One of such decisions was the unpopular ‘Muslim-Muslim ticket’. My being a Christian did not matter. My local assembly, Redeemed Christian Church of God, was split.’

The former Lagos Central senator recalled that church opposition was not new to her. During her 2011 senatorial campaign, she said her posters were rejected by the parish.

‘I later realised that we are a church like other churches with members of all political parties in attendance. I experienced this during my campaign in 2011 for the senate, when I took my campaign posters to the church, and it was rebuffed. After that, I never tried again,’ she explained.

Mrs. Tinubu noted that while some parishioners showed hostility, many elders and members supported her with prayers, which kept her steadfast in her faith.

‘But I kept attending church, and I thank God I have grown from being a baby to a mature Christian. So the little resentment I witnessed from a few was met with the peace of God.

‘All the same, despite a few who showed hostility, many were encouraging, especially our elders, who would encourage me from time to time with prayers,’ she wrote.

She expressed gratitude to her local assembly for standing by her, adding that many of them lived to witness her husband’s inauguration as president.

‘To this end, I am grateful to God and every one of them, especially those who lived to watch the presidential inauguration when the time came. I thank the pastorate also for making arrangements for them.

‘I thank my local assembly because most of them made me feel welcome and comfortable enough to come to church whenever I was home from Abuja, where I was still serving as a senator representing Lagos central senatorial district.’

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), in collaboration with the British Standards Institution (BSI), on Tuesday unveiled ISO 37003:2025 to curb fraudulent practices in both the private and public sectors in Nigeria.

While launching the document in Abuja, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said:

*’This is not merely a ceremony to unveil a new document; it is a declaration of our collective commitment to transparency and accountability, fortifying the foundations of our national economy on the bedrock of integrity.

‘We recognize that fraud, in all its forms, is a corrosive agent that eats away at the very fabric of our economic progress. It increases the cost of doing business, erodes investor confidence, and stifles innovation.’*

Represented by Mrs. Agu Jachnma, Deputy Director of Reforms, the Minister explained that corruption is a hidden tax on development and *’we must confront it decisively. To build a truly resilient and competitive economy, we must move beyond reactive measures.

‘This is where the ISO 37003:2025 standard comes in. This is not just another regulation. It is a comprehensive framework, a globally recognized benchmark that provides organizations, both in the public and private sectors, with the tools and guidance to establish, implement, and continually improve a robust fraud control management system.

‘The beauty of this standard lies in its proactive approach. It guides organizations to assess their unique fraud risks, implement proportionate controls to prevent and detect fraudulent activities, and respond effectively and decisively when incidents occur.

‘By adopting this standard, Nigerian companies and government agencies signal to the world that they are committed to global best practices. It tells potential investors and trading partners that Nigeria is a serious and transparent place to do business. This standard transforms fraud control from a matter of chance to a matter of choice and systematic design,’* she stated.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasized that *’we are not merely unveiling another international standard, but a powerful instrument to strengthen transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

‘This launch is the culmination of a process that began with yesterday’s pre-launch workshop, which provided a platform for robust deliberations on strategies for effective implementation of the standard. Both the workshop and today’s launch mark a watershed moment in Nigeria’s journey in international standardization.

‘We take immense pride in the fact that Nigeria, through the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), played an active role from conception to publication of this standard, serving first as Co-Convenor and eventually as Convenor of ISO/Technical Committee 309 Working Group 8. This singular achievement places our nation at the forefront of global efforts in developing frameworks that address fraud in all its manifestations.’*

Okeke acknowledged SON’s invaluable partnership with the British Standards Institution (BSI), *’whose collaboration under our twinning arrangement has been instrumental in making this standard a reality.

‘Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, fraud remains a pervasive obstacle to our national development. It erodes trust, increases the cost of doing business, discourages foreign investment, and deprives our citizens of the resources needed for infrastructure and social services.’*

The DG said that for too long, responses had been fragmented and reactive. *’With ISO 37003:2025, we now embrace a proactive and structured framework for fraud prevention, detection, and response.

‘This standard provides a globally recognized framework for preventing fraudulent activities before they occur, detecting fraud efficiently when it arises, and responding decisively to ensure accountability and minimize damage. More importantly, it fosters a culture of integrity by embedding fraud prevention into the very DNA of organisational operations.

‘For the public sector, adoption of this standard will enhance transparency and accountability, reduce leakages, and rebuild public confidence. For the private sector, it will serve as a mark of integrity, signalling to partners and investors that Nigerian companies operate with the highest standards of governance.’*

Okeke stated that the Standards Organisation of Nigeria is fully committed to ensuring that this standard does not remain on paper but is implemented effectively.

‘SON will roll out awareness campaigns, provide training for implementers and auditors, and establish a credible certification scheme. However, this is not a task for SON alone. It requires the active commitment of leaders in the public sector, captains of industry, professional bodies, and civil society organisations. Together, we must build a formidable wall of integrity against fraud,’ he stated.

On his part, the representative of the British Standards Institution (BSI) said the launch of ISO 37003:2025 will go a long way in boosting investor confidence and growing Nigeria’s economy.

Stakeholders from both the private and public sectors graced the occasion.

A smartphone should do more than keep you connected; it should empower you to work, create, and enjoy life without limits. That is exactly what the itel SUPER 26 Ultra delivers. With its sleek design, unmatched durability, powerful performance, and intelligent features, this device is crafted to be the ultimate companion for anyone who wants more from their phone.

Ultra-Curved AMOLED Display

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Ultra-Durable Design

Durability is at the heart of this smartphone. With its 6.8mm slim body, the device manages to stay lightweight yet resilient. It is certified with IP65 dust and water resistance, making it capable of withstanding splashes and everyday exposure. Powering the device is a 6000mAh battery that is designed to last. Even after four years of charging cycles, the battery retains up to 80 per cent health, making it one of the most reliable powerhouses in its class.

Ultra-Imaging Capabilities

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Ultra AI Experience

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At its core, the SUPER 26 Ultra is powered by the advanced T7300 6nm processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and lag-free performance. The itel SUPER 26 Ultra achieves an impressive AnTuTu benchmark score of over 510,000; higher than its competitors in this segment and range. It supports up to 256GB of storage with 16GB extended RAM for heavy users who demand space and speed. Gamers will appreciate the optimized gaming experience, DTS sound effects for immersive audio, and features like NFC touch transfer and ultra-link free calls that improve daily connectivity. The device also comes with a six-year fluency guarantee, reassuring users of long-lasting performance.

Exclusive Offers for Buyers

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Additionally, customers who decide to swap their device within 180 days enjoy a 60 percent resale value. As a bonus, 3,000 lucky buyers will receive a ?2,500 discount voucher for four Bolt rides, making transportation more affordable and convenient. These offers are valid between September 9 and November 30, 2025.

Availability

The itel SUPER 26 Ultra is available at itel Home Stores and authorized retailers nationwide for 229,900 Naira (256+6GB) and 259,900 Naira (256+8GB). You can also order on our Jumia store using the link: https://tinyurl.com/4pdxn5cu or itel Home website using the link: https://tinyurl.com/2m8ekwju

Conclusion

The itel Super 26 Ultra is not just another smartphone; it is a complete package designed for today’s lifestyle. With its cutting-edge display, durable build, powerful imaging system, advanced AI features, and unmatched performance, it lives up to its name as the ultimate powerhouse smartphone. Add the exclusive customer rewards and it becomes a device that offers true value for money. For those seeking ultra-performance, ultra-durability, and ultra-sleek design, the Super 26 Ultra is the clear choice.

Leading smartphone brand, Infinix, has once again proven its dominance in the Nigerian mobile market by clinching two prestigious honors at the 2025 Edge Awards, organized by Marketing Edge and held on Friday, September 26, at the Balmoral Event Centre in Lagos. The brand won the awards for Outstanding Smartphone Launch of the Year for its Hot 60 Series, and Innovative Smartphone Brand of the Year for its Note 50 Series.

These recognitions highlight Infinix’s continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology, stylish design, and user-focused innovation in the Nigerian market.

Speaking on the awards, Oluwayemisi Ode, Integrated Marketing Communications and PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, expressed gratitude to customers and stakeholders for their continued trust and support for the brand. ‘This double win is a testament to the work we put into understanding our consumers and delivering devices that not only meet but exceed their expectations. At Infinix, we believe technology should be empowering, stylish, and accessible, and these awards reinforce our commitment to that mission”.

Speaking on the Marketing Edge Awards, John Ajayi, CEO and Founder, Marketing Edge Group and Edge Awards, highlighted that the award ceremony serves as a way to celebrate achievement of others and a reminder that hard work, service and innovation are rewarded. ‘As brands, agencies and personalities navigate the complexities of the Nigerian market, balancing traditional values with cutting-edge technology, this year’s EDGE AWARDS offers a prestigious platform to celebrate those who have pushed the limits of creativity and innovation with insight-driven initiatives’ he stated.

These recent awards strengthen Infinix’s position as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s highly competitive smartphone industry and a testament to its reputation as a brand that is committed to consistently delivering cutting-edge smart devices, and continues to push the boundaries of what mid-range smartphones can deliver.

For more inquiries, you can follow Infinix on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X. For more details about Infinix, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Information and Communication Technology and Cyber Security, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis, on Monday, disclosed that the federal government is set to lay 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic nationwide to enhance digital technology penetration and increase Gross Domestic Product

The lawmaker, representing Ogun Central in the National Assembly, said this while delivering a lecture on the theme, ‘The Future of Journalism : Navigating AI and Objective Reporting’, at the opening of the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, in Abeokuta.

Senator Salis said the laying of the fibre optic broadband nationwide would not be limited to the state and local governments alone, but would be spread to each ward of the federation.

He hinted that a number of studies have confirmed that any 10 per cent increase in fibre penetration in the country would lead to a minimum of two per cent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

‘The country is at the cusp of a revolution. In 1998/1999, when we liberalised the telecommunications sector, a number of organisations didn’t believe in the potential of Nigeria; they were asking questions: how many people would make phone calls in Nigeria? Particularly, we were transiting from an environment where we only had a government behemoth, NITEL. But what had happened? MTN, Airtel and a number of other organisations that took advantage of Nigeria, today, MTN, about a few weeks ago, we went to commission the biggest MTN Data Centre in Africa.

‘Twenty-five years down the line, we are about to have yet another revolution in our digital communication space.

‘This government under President Bola Tinubu is going to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic broadband across the country, not just in some states, not just in some local governments; there is no ward that will not have fibre optic presence.

‘A number of studies have confirmed that any 10 per cent increase in your fibre penetration in the country would lead to a minimum of two per cent increase in your GDP growth. So, just imagine if you deploy more technology. And it is very easy to fathom. Just imagine we have fibre optic in all our wards.’

The lawmaker revealed that one of the challenges of professional journalists in today’s world is that AI has the potential to increase the incidence of quackery.

While advocating that technology must be embedded in the curriculum for mass communication and journalism training.

‘The challenge for professional journalists is that AI also has the potential of increasing the incidence of quackery in the profession. So, what do we need to do? Our curriculum for the mass communication and journalism training institute must embed technology into the curriculum. It cannot be an afterthought or annexure; just like any discipline whatsoever, now, it must have technology embedded in it.

‘Secondly, for those already practising who have not had the opportunity of going back to school to learn, they must also have continuous capacity building and I’m going to partner with NUJ Ogun State Council on the deployment of technology and AI.

‘The third thing is that journalists must also self-regulate. I’m the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, and we are in the process of repealing and enacting a new Cyber Crime Law in the country. There is always this tension between the freedom of expression and national security. But journalists, particularly professional journalists, whose training requires them to pass their news stories through many gatekeepers, now those gatekeepers may not be there physically again. But we must also ensure that we create the standards and code of conduct.

‘When people go online, they must know that this publication is being run by professional journalists rather than publications that are being run by those who are pretending to be journalists. Standardisation and self-regulation. There must also be professional differentiation. What do I mean by professional differentiation?

‘ If you use AI to generate a news item, and another user uses AI to generate the news item, we are likely to end up with the same content. But whereas if you are a true journalist, AI is an enabler, not a replacer. Therefore, you must also have professional differentiation.

‘People in the past, when they pick a news item, you can see that this is Olatunji Dare with a satire, you can see that this is Parallax Snaps by Dele Giwa. You can say this opinion poll was written by Stanley Macebuh. That professional differentiation is no longer there.

‘People can no longer say this is the writing style of somebody because we have deployed technology to the extent that it has replaced our professional differentiation,’ he added.

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, in his keynote address, emphasised the ethical dimension, while submitting that Nigeria lacks comprehensive regulatory norms that clarify how AI-generated content, such as images, audios and videos must be disclosed.

He, therefore, urged the leadership of the Union to publish a widely adopted code of practice to address AI.

In his speech, the Chairman of the council, Wale Olanrewaju, noted that the council had recorded milestones, progress and development in less than three years.

Olanrewaju stated that AI had changed the way news is gathered, processed and disseminated.

‘As a union, our responsibility is to prepare our members not just to adapt, but to lead in this new reality. We must ensure that technology enhances our credibility rather than diminishes it,’ he said.

The event’s panel discussion, moderated by Prof Dele Odunlami, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, featured Mr Kunle Durosimi, President, Ogun Tech Community and Registrar, West Midlands Open University and Mr Lekan Adeeko, AI Enthusiast and Co-founder Tedprime Hub.

The panel deliberated on the merits and demerits of using AI as journalists.

They urged journalists to be professional in the usage of AI in their write-ups, saying that AI should be used to promote national unity and cohesion and youths to innovate and harness technology to revolutionise Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.