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Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq was applauded on Tuesday by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), which acknowledged his ‘consistent support for local content development in the construction and engineering sectors’.

COREN Chairman in Kwara State Engineer Bashiru Lawal said in a letter to the Governor in October 2025 that AbdulRazaq’s ‘deliberate policy of patronising local professionals and contractors aligns perfectly with COREN’s longstanding advocacy for the recognition, utilisation, and promotion or indigenous companies in project execution’.

‘On behalf of the COREN, Kwara State Office and the entire engineering community in Kwara State, we wish to express our profound appreciation to Your Excellency for your exemplary commitment to empowering indigenous contractors through the recent award of contracts, particularly the engagement of Messrs CPN for the construction of Ojoku-Ilemona Road, flagged off recently by Your Excellency,’ the letter stated.

It added: ‘This forward-thinking approach not only strengthens local capacity but also enhances job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable development within the state. Your Excellency’s consistent support for local content development in the construction and engineering sectors stands as a testament to your dedication to inclusive growth and the overall economic advancement of Kwara State.

‘We commend your vision and leadership in setting a standard worthy of emulation by other states and public institutions across the country. COREN remains committed to supporting your administration’s developmental agenda and ensuring that the highest professional and ethical standards are maintained in all engineering-related projects in the state.’

At a press briefing recently, Commissioner for Works AbdulQuawy Olododo told reporters that more than 70% of the construction works in the state are handled by local contractors who are indigenous to Kwara State.

He said this creates jobs and boosts the local economy at various layers.

The Governing Council of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, has announced the appointment of a Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, a renowned scholar of Soil Ecosystem as the new Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

Prof.Ogunwole, who is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Strategic Partnerships, Research, Innovation, and Linkages) will

assume office in February 2026, succeeding Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina as the fifth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

In a statement by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Foluso Ogunmodede, the appointment was ratified during a Council meeting held on Thursday under the chairmanship of the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN).

The statement reads: ‘Today, Thursday, November 6, 2025, marks the conclusion of a long and rigorous process of selecting a new Vice-Chancellor for FUOYE. The exercise, which began in August with a public advertisement for the position, has now produced a worthy successor.’

Addressing the council members, Senator Ndoma-Egba expressed satisfaction that the selection process had come to a successful end, urging all stakeholders to put aside rancour and unite behind the new Vice-Chancellor in the interest of the university’s progress.

He commended the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina, for what he described as a remarkable tenure characterized by extensive infrastructure development and academic growth.

‘You are leaving the stage with your head held high. You have done exceptionally well and deserve commendation,’ Ndoma-Egba said.

He also applauded members of the Governing Council for their commitment, diligence, and cooperation throughout the selection process, noting that their collective effort ensured transparency and merit prevailed.

The highlight of the meeting was the formal presentation of the letter of appointment to Professor Ogunwole by the Pro-Chancellor, marking the beginning of a new chapter in FUOYE’s leadership.

Instollar, a Lagos-based platform that connects solar companies with certified technicians, has officially launched after nearly three years of operation.

The event, on October 27, 2025, brought together friends, family, business associates, and supporters, marking a formal debut for a company that has quietly become a key player in the country’s clean energy workforce development.

Founded in 2022 by Chinwe Udo-Davis, Instollar operates as a workforce management and recruitment platform designed to close the skills gap in Nigeria’s fast-growing solar energy sector.

The company has already facilitated over 2,000 solar installations and registered more than 1,200 technicians across the country.

Speaking at the launch, Udo-Davis said the platform was built to address one of the biggest bottlenecks facing renewable energy firms, the shortage of qualified, reliable technicians.

‘Panels and batteries don’t install themselves,’ she said. ‘If Africa’s energy transition will be sustainable, we need a trained and trusted workforce to drive it.’

Over the past few years, Instollar has provided solar companies with vetted professionals who meet quality and safety standards, helping them deliver projects efficiently.

For technicians, the platform offers not just job opportunities, but a path toward formal employment and steady income in a field that has long been dominated by informal work.

At the launch, two engineers trained through Instollar, Engr. Promise Okon and Engr. Ibrahim Adulwaheed, shared personal accounts of how the platform helped them secure consistent work.

‘Before Instollar, jobs came once in a while,’ Adulwaheed said. ‘Now, I can plan my life better because the work keeps coming.’

Another highlight of the event was InstallHER, an initiative by Instollar focused on training and empowering women in solar technology. The programme aims to train 10,000 women technicians by 2030, giving them access to technical skills, certifications, and employment in the renewable energy sector.

One of the programme’s trainees, Grace Gbengero, shared how the opportunity changed her career path. ‘Before InstallHER, I didn’t think I could fit into energy work, even though I studied electrical engineering’ she said. ‘Now I’m not only working, but I have also met my target as a technical sales manager even before the end of the year’

Industry experts at the event described Instollar’s model as a practical response to Nigeria’s growing demand for skilled labour in clean energy. With renewable projects expanding across the country and government targets pushing for wider access to off-grid power, the need for reliable manpower has never been greater.

By linking workforce development with the energy transition, Instollar is helping to formalize an important part of Nigeria’s green economy – one job at a time.

Udo-Davis summed up the company’s vision simply: ‘Africa’s energy future won’t just be powered by sunlight alone, it will be powered by people.’

Rotary International has reaffirmed its commitment to vaccinating Nigerian children against polio and expanding its maternal and child health interventions, stressing that the mission remains urgent while wild poliovirus still exists in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during a visit by Rotary’s global leadership, Holger Knaack, Chair of the Rotary Foundation Board of Trustees, cautioned that Nigeria cannot afford complacency despite recording no wild poliovirus cases in the last five years.

The outreach, held at the Government Junior Secondary School, Gwarimpa playground, brought together community leaders, parents, teachers, health workers, and Rotary officials who conducted free medical outreach in the community.

‘As long as there is a single case in Pakistan or Afghanistan, we must continue vaccinating children. As long as we see a single case anywhere in the world, our children are not safe,’ Knaack said.

Knaack outlined Rotary’s three flagship programmes in Nigeria: the Polio Eradication Initiative, the Together for Healthy Families maternal and newborn safety project, and the Rotary Healthy Community Challenge, which focuses on malaria, diarrhoea, and pneumonia, three of the leading causes of child deaths.

He expressed appreciation to Nigerian Rotarians, community members, and major donors for their unwavering support, singling out Sir Emeka Offor for his $5 million contribution to the Foundation.

Announcing a new phase of the Healthy Community Challenge, Knaack said Rotary teams would be dispatched to communities to prevent and treat malaria, diarrhoea, and pneumonia through awareness campaigns, improved access to care, and preventive health measures.

He explained that Rotary’s combined interventions, spanning immunisation, maternal care, community outreach, and digital health tracking are designed to achieve lasting reductions in maternal and child mortality.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s progress toward eradicating all strains of poliovirus, Knaack urged well-meaning Nigerians to continue supporting Rotary’s humanitarian programmes.

Rotary Foundation Trustee, Ijeoma Okoro noted that Rotary’s community interventions have yielded measurable improvements.

‘We have reduced maternal and child mortality by over 28 percent across our project sites,’ she said.

She explained that the current phase of the programme covers Ekiti, Nasarawa, the Federal Capital Territory, and Gombe States, with plans to expand to 10 states in the next phase following new funding support from the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation.

According to Okoro, Rotary’s approach follows a cradle-to-five model, supporting women from pre-conception through pregnancy and tracking children until age five.

‘This is a commitment. Rotary is fully invested in it, and we are not looking back,’ she affirmed.

She called for stronger community engagement and clearer public messaging to sustain progress, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media, and citizens to promote routine immunisation and ensure all children under five receive vaccines during campaigns.

‘Government needs to work closely with traditional rulers because they are custodians of law and opinion leaders in their communities.

‘Polio anywhere is polio everywhere, and ending preventable maternal and child deaths requires collective, sustained action,’ Okoro added.

Commending Rotary International for the impactful outreach in his community, the District Head of Gwarimpa, Hakim Umar Bayero, emphasized that community ownership has been key to the success of health and empowerment initiatives.

He called for closer collaboration with government agencies and stakeholders to translate short-term gains into sustainable health systems.

In appreciation of their contribution to the community, the Rotary Foundation Chief and his wife, Suzanne, were gifted with the traditional Gbagyi attire, symbolizing gratitude for bringing global attention and support to Gwarimpa.

Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos has restrained all banks in Nigeria from dealing, releasing, further releasing in any manner whatsoever, with any and all monies and assets of an Indian businessman, Mr. Arun Goswami, and his companies, Metwest Steel Limited and Eastern Metals Limited, over alleged unpaid debts amounting to N9, 503,012,155.29 billion

The India-born businessman and companies were alleged to have been indebtedness to two banks, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and Union Bank Plc and a company, United Capital Trustees Limited.

Specifically, they were alleged to be owing FCMB and United Capital Trustees Limited of the sum of N4, 540, 325, 140.36 billion. While they were accused of owning Union Bank Plc and United Capital Trustees Limited of the sum of N4,962,687,044.93 billion.

The judge also made an Order Of Mareva Injunction, restraining the businessman’s companies, their directors, agents, servants, officers, privies or any other person natural or artificial howsoever called under their control from transferring or otherwise dealing with any and all of the monies standing to the credit in any of Nigeria banks, wherever situate up to the amount of the banks’ total claims, as at June 17, 2025; being the outstanding financial obligations owed by the businessman and his companies, in respect of the Bank Guarantee, Short Term Finance, Overdraft and CBN Term Loan facilities availed them by the FCMB and Union Bank, Counter-claim, which were guaranteed by the 2nd and 3rd Defendants to Counter-claim and collateralized by the property belonging to 1st Defendant to Counter-claim, situate at Km 16, Asaba, Benin Expressway, Azagba, Delta State vide a duly executed Mortgage Debenture Deed dated August 3, 2022, pending the hearing and determination of this suit is hereby granted.

Justice Aluko made above orders while granting separate motion on notice filed by the two banks, FCMB and Union Bank Plc, who were Counter-claimants in two suits numbered FHC/L/CS/798/2025 and FHC/L/CS/800/2025.

The two motions were filed and argued by Barrister A. Adedoyin-Adetunji, lawyer to both Union Bank Plc and FCMB.

In praying the Court for the orders and others, Adedoyin-Adetunji, told the court that the two motion Exparte were pursuant to Order 28 Rules 1 (2) and 2 (1): Order 26(6)(1) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) rules 2019; Sections 10, and 13 of the Federal High Court Act and Under the court inherent jurisdiction, As Preserved By Section 6 (6)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, 1999 {As Amended}.

The lawyer also told the court that that two motion on notice were supported with affidavits deposed by Osobase Michael, written address and some documentary exhibits.

In granting the two motions, Justice Aluko held that: ‘.. and the court having A. Adedoyin Adeniyi Esq., with Sarah Nwobodo Esq., and T. Alade Esq.. for the 1st Defendant/Counter-claimant/ Applicant.

‘And the court having also heard T.

Olopade Esq., for the Plaintiff/1st defendant to Counter Claim/respondent on their counter affidavit before the Court..

‘It is hereby ordered as follows; ‘that an order of mareva injunction restraining the following Commercial Banks in Nigeria to wit: Guaranty Trust Bank Limited, Access Bank Pic, Citi Bank Nigeria Limited, Ecobank Nigeria Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, First Bank Of Nigeria Limited, First City Monument Bank Plc, Globus Bank, Jaiz Bank, Keystone Bank Limited, Opay Digital Services Limited, Palmpay Nigeria, Piggyvest, Momo Agent, Polaris Bank Limited, Providus Bank, Signature Bank, Stanbic Ibtc Bank Nigeria Limited, Standard Chartered Bank, Sterling Bank Plc, Suntrust Bank Limited, Union Bank Of Nigeria Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, Unity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc and Zenith Bank Plc, and all other financial institutions operating in Nigeria from releasing, further releasing or dealing in any manner whatsoever with any and all monies and/ or whatsoever assets due to the Defendants to Counter-claim from any account whatsoever maintained by them and also all accounts with BVN: 22206681429 (2nd Defendant to Counter-Claim) their agents, privies or the like with any of the said Banks wherever situate up to the amount of the Counter Claimant/Applicant’s total claim in the sum N4, 962, 687, 044. 93 {Four Billion, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Eighty-Seven Thousand, FortyFour Naira, Ninety-Three Kobo} as at as at 17th June, 2025; being the outstanding financial obligations owed by the Defendants to Counter-claim in respect of the Bank Guarantee, Short Term Finance, Overdraft and CBN Term Loan facilities availed to the Plaintiff/1st Defendant to Counter-claim, which were guaranteed by the 2nd and 3rd Defendants to Counter-claim and collateralized by the property belonging to the 1st Defendant to Counter-claim situate at Km 16, Asaba, Benin Expressway, Issele-Azagba, Delta State vide a duly executed Mortgage Debenture Deed dated 3rd August 2022, pending the hearing and determination of this suit is hereby granted.

‘That an order of mareva injunction restraining the Defendants to all Counter-claim, the directors of the Plaintiff/1st Defendant to Counter-claim, their agents, servants, officers, privies or any other person natural or artificial howsoever called under the control of the Defendants to Counter-claim from transferring or otherwise dealing with any and all of the monies standing to the credit of the Defendants to Counter-claim in any account whatsoever maintained by the Defendants to Counter-claim with any of the aforementioned Banks wherever situate up to the amount of the Counter Claimant’s total claim of the sum of N4, 962, 687, 044.93 {Four Billion, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Eighty-seven Thousand, Forty-Four Naira, Ninety-Three Kobo}, And N4, 540, 325,140. 36 (Four Billion, five Hundred and forty Million, three Hundred and twenty-five Thousand, one hundred and Forty Naira, thirty-six Kobo )as at as at 17th June, 2025; being the outstanding financial obligations owed by the Defendants to Counter-claim in respect of the Bank Guarantee, Short Term Finance, Overdraft and CBN Term Loan facilities availed to Plaintiff/1st Defendant to Counter-claim, which were guaranteed by the 2nd and 3rd Defendants to Counter-claim and collateralized by the property belonging to 1st Defendant to Counter-claim situate at Km 16, Asaba, Benin Expressway, Azagba, Delta State vide a duly executed Mortgage Debenture Deed dated 3 August 2022, pending the hearing and determination of this suit is hereby granted.

‘That an order directing the above named Banks to file and serve the 1st Defendant/Counter-claimants Counsel within seven (7) days of service of the order on them, an affidavit disclosing the balance on the Defendants to Counterclaim’s accounts whatsoever maintained with the Banks as at the date of the Order is hereby granted.

‘That an order restraining the defendants to Counter-claim from selling, transferring, assigning and/or dealing with any properties of the Defendants to Counter-claim that can be traced and located by the 1st Defendant/Counterclaimant including landed properties Km 16, Asaba, Benin Expressway, Issele-Azagba, Delta State being the property belonging to the Plaintiff/1st Defendant to Counter-claim used as security for the Bank Guarantee, Short Term Finance, Overdraft and CBN Term Loan facilities granted to the Plaintiff/ist Defendant to Counter-ciaim; during the pendency of this suit is hereby granted.

‘That the Counter-claimant shall enter into an undertaking as to damages to indemnify the Defendants to the counter-claim.’

The matter has been adjourned to February 23, 2026, for further hearing.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s determination to defeat terrorism and restore lasting peace across Nigeria, assuring citizens and international partners that the country remains steadfast in its pursuit of unity, security, and economic progress.

The President made the declaration at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, shortly before presiding over the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting and moments after swearing in two new ministers to join his cabinet.

His statement came amid renewed global attention on Nigeria’s security situation, following the recent designation of the country as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) by United States President Donald Trump and threats of potential military action under the guise of protecting religious freedom.

Tinubu, however, struck a confident tone, stressing that his administration is engaging the world diplomatically while maintaining focus on defeating terrorism and stabilizing the nation.

‘The most important thing is the fact that despite the political headwind and the fear of our people, we’ll continue to engage with our partners. The success of the $2.35 billion Eurobond oversubscription is the most reassuring signal at this stage.

‘The task ahead is immense. We are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism in this country. The task ahead is immense, but it is our resolve to move forward with unity and purpose, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda to build a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Nigeria,’.he said.

Renowned dancer and choreographer, Kaffy has advised parents to establish clear boundaries and educate their children about appropriate physical touch and personal space.

In a video posted on Instagram, Kaffy revealed that she experienced inappropriate behaviour from a trusted family friend when she was younger.

She said: ‘It happened right in front of people who trusted the person. At that age, I didn’t understand what was going on. But I knew something about it was wrong.’

Kaffy stressed that people who harm children often don’t fit the stereotype of a ‘monster’ and may even be seen as caring or helpful.

‘Many of them appear caring. They may be the ones who always want to help or be around the child. That’s why parents need to pay attention and set clear boundaries,’ she said.

She warned parents against being overly trusting of familiar figures, such as ‘favorite uncles’ or ‘favorite aunties,’ and urged them to teach their children that it’s okay to say ‘no’ to unwanted touch or interactions, regardless of the adult’s identity.

‘Parents need to be cautious of the favorite uncles, the favorite aunties, the favorite nannies, the favorite drivers. There needs to be boundaries. Many children face uncomfortable situations from people who are close to them,’ she added.

The dancer also spoke out against making unnecessary comments about children’s bodies or giving physical affection without consent, emphasising that children have the right to their personal space and autonomy.

Kaffy encouraged parents to create safe emotional environments for their children and to recognise early signs of potential harm.

In recent years, the iGaming industry has exploded in Bangladesh, reshaping the way people engage with online entertainment. Thanks to increased internet access, affordable smartphones, and a growing digital culture, the demand for online gaming and betting platforms has skyrocketed. The country’s youth, particularly between the ages of 18 and 35, are now turning to platforms like Wicket71, Jeeta, 8mbets, and thomohomnay to experience the thrill of virtual sports, live casinos, and e-sports betting.

According to market research, iGaming in Bangladesh is projected to grow by over 25% annually through 2025. This surge is largely driven by technological innovation, seamless payment gateways, and a desire for safe, transparent entertainment. Unlike traditional gaming, iGaming offers real-time excitement and opportunities to earn rewards-making it a key player in the digital economy.

What’s most interesting is how online betting in Bangladesh has evolved from casual play to a structured, regulated ecosystem. Platforms like Wicket71 bd have been instrumental in building trust through secure transactions, fair gameplay, and local customer support. This evolution signals a new era of entertainment in Bangladesh, where technology meets passion.

Among all iGaming platforms in Bangladesh, Wicket71 stands out as the leader. But what makes it so popular? The answer lies in its user-first approach and continuous innovation. Wicket71 players in Bangladesh appreciate how the platform balances high-end technology with a localized experience that speaks directly to Bangladeshi gamers.

Here’s why Wicket71 dominates the iGaming scene:

1. Trust and Transparency:

Wicket71 has built its reputation as a trusted gaming site in Bangladesh by prioritizing fairness. Every game follows international standards, ensuring that users play in a safe and verified environment.

2. Seamless User Experience:

With a clean, intuitive interface and multi-language support, players can easily navigate and place bets on their favorite sports or casino games without hassle.

3. Fast Withdrawals and Secure Payments:

Unlike many competitors, Wicket71 bd offers instant withdrawals and multiple payment options, including local mobile banking-something that Bangladeshi users highly value.

4. 24/7 Customer Support:

The platform’s dedicated support team provides real-time assistance in both Bengali and English, strengthening user trust.

5. Regular Promotions and Rewards:

From welcome bonuses to loyalty rewards, Wicket71 ensures players always feel appreciated. This commitment to engagement is why so many users switch from Jeeta, 8mbets, or thomohomnay to Wicket71.

Below is a quick comparison of the top iGaming platforms in Bangladesh:

Platform Main Features User Rating (out of 5) Highlight

Wicket71 Fast withdrawals, local support, safe betting 4.9 #1 choice for Bangladeshi players

Jeeta Wide game selection, bonus promotions 4.5 Known for diverse casino options

8mbets Sports betting focus, mobile-friendly design 4.3 Great for cricket and football fans

thomohomnay Modern interface, e-sports integration 4.1 Growing among young digital gamers

This comparison highlights why Wicket71 continues to capture the majority of market share-it provides a comprehensive package that combines trust, innovation, and user satisfaction.

The future of iGaming growth in 2025 looks incredibly promising for Bangladesh. With increasing smartphone penetration and the government’s push for digital transformation, the online betting and gaming sector is set to expand even further. Experts predict that by 2026, Bangladesh could become one of South Asia’s largest online gaming markets.

Wicket71 is already preparing for this digital wave by forming global partnerships with leading game developers and payment providers. These collaborations will bring more diverse gaming content and even faster, safer transaction methods for users. Moreover, the platform is exploring new technologies such as AI-powered gaming analytics and blockchain verification systems to further enhance user trust and gameplay fairness.

As more Bangladeshi players join the iGaming community, platforms like Jeeta, 8mbets, and thomohomnay will continue to evolve-but Wicket71’s strong reputation, innovative features, and deep understanding of local preferences ensure that it remains the #1 choice for both new and experienced players.

In short, the rise of iGaming in Bangladesh isn’t just a trend-it’s a revolution. And at the center of it stands Wicket71, the platform redefining how Bangladesh plays, wins, and enjoys digital entertainment.

Conclusion

The rapid expansion of iGaming in Bangladesh represents more than entertainment-it’s a symbol of technological growth and evolving consumer habits. Wicket71 leads this movement with its secure platform, fast withdrawals, and unmatched trust among users. For players seeking a reliable, modern, and rewarding gaming experience, Wicket71 remains the ultimate destination.

Nottingham Forest extended their unbeaten run away from home in the Europa League as they played out a 0-0 draw with Sturm Graz at the Merkur Arena.

Manager Sean Dyche also maintained his perfect start in European competition since taking charge, with the Reds following up their 2-0 win over Porto in the previous match by securing a point in Austria.

Forest missed a golden chance to assert their dominance when Morgan Gibbs-White saw a first-half penalty saved by Oliver Christensen, after Maurice Malone had a goal disallowed for offside.

Sturm Graz grew into the game in the second half, testing John Victor with a couple of nervy saves on only his second start for the club.

The second half turned into a scrappy stop-start affair as both sides failed to register a shot on target after the interval but Nicolas Dominguez was denied the winner in stoppage time by the crossbar as both sides took a share of the spoils.

Dyche made seven changes to the side that drew 2-2 with Manchester United on Saturday, while Neco Williams, Nicolo Savona, Gibbs-White and Nikola Milenkovic all kept their places in the team.

Arjan Malic brought down Williams on the left edge of the box which handed Forest the first opportunity, Dominguez pulling it back to James McAtee who dragged his first-touch effort just wide of a post.

Forest controlled the early proceedings in Austria and almost had the opener but Ryan Yates saw a close-range header cleared off the line by Malic in the 17th minute.

Sturm Graz thought they took the lead before the half-hour mark with their first foray forward.

Otar Kiteishvili’s run put the Forest defence on the back foot and his strike was parried by Victor into the path of Malone who tapped into an empty net but was marginally offside.

Forest were given a chance to open the scoring from the penalty spot after Williams struck the ball off the hand of Emanuel Aiwu.

Gibbs-White assumed the responsibility but his spot-kick was stopped by Christensen who went low to his left to keep out the golden chance.

The Austrian’s attacking moments came few and far between but they looked dangerous when they did come forward, Tomi Horvat forcing Victor into parrying another effort.

Nineteen-year-old Zach Abbott was introduced by Dyche and looked lively but neither side showed any sort of attacking urgency after the interval as the game ticked into its final quarter.

Dyche brought Gibbs-White off for defender Murillo with 13 minutes to play as Forest set their stall out for a point away in Europe.

Forest almost snatched victory at the end when Dominguez let rip with a firecracker outside the box but he was denied by the crossbar.

Nigeria has taken the lead in West Africa’s climate action drive with the submission of its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), positioning the country for fresh global partnerships and investments at the ongoing COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil.

Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to unveil Nigeria’s green transition roadmap before world leaders, articulating the country’s strategy to convert climate commitments into actionable projects that attract financing and technology.

Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Mrs. Tenioye Majekodunmi, announced Nigeria’s milestone in an interview with journalists ahead of the COP30 opening session.

She noted that Nigeria’s early submission of its NDC 3.0 makes it the first West African nation to do so and ‘a continental frontrunner in climate ambition and readiness.’

According to a statement on Thursday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Majekodunmi said ‘this is the implementation COP we’ve all been waiting for. For Nigeria, the submission of our NDC 3.0 marks a turning point. It’s time to move from paper to projects’.

She disclosed that the Federal Government’s recent approval of a National Carbon Market Framework and operationalisation of the National Climate Change Fund would further boost investor confidence, signalling that ‘Nigeria is open for high-integrity carbon investments delivering real mitigation and community benefits.’

According to her, the Belem summit provides a unique ‘global matchmaking platform’ for Nigeria to showcase its readiness for sustainable climate financing.

She also revealed that Nigeria will use COP30 to strengthen South-South cooperation on climate matters, particularly through collaboration among the Amazon, Congo, and Guinea forest regions.

In her words: ‘Being in the Amazon for this summit represents a symbolic convergence of forest regions. The dialogue between Brazil, the Congo Basin, and West Africa is critical to advancing global forest protection and the Belem agenda.’

Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, said Nigeria’s participation at COP30 underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action.

‘For Nigeria, it’s not just about attendance; it’s about demonstrating leadership and implementing Article 13 of the Paris Accord on transparency and climate responsibility,’ Nkwocha stated, adding that Nigeria remains firmly committed to achieving a 32 per cent reduction in emissions by 2035.

Vice President Shettima will join global leaders, development partners, and investors in high-level sessions on ‘Climate and Nature: Forests and Oceans’ and will deliver Nigeria’s national climate action address at the leaders’ plenary later this week.