Zanzibar seeks Chinese investors for hotel furniture, food factories

Unguja. Zanzibar is seeking to attract Chinese investors to establish factories producing hotel furniture, processed foods and other essential goods to serve the rapidly expanding tourism sector, with the government pledging a business-friendly investment environment.

Zanzibar’s Minister for Trade and Industrial Development, Mr Omar Said Shaaban, highlighted the opportunities during his address at the Yellow River Basin Enterprise Going Global and Comprehensive Services Exchange and Matchmaking Conference in Jinan, Shandong Province, China.

The conference brought together more than 700 industrialists and business executives from across the Yellow River Basin to promote the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and facilitate international expansion by businesses.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s communications unit, Mr Shaaban said Zanzibar received 917,000 tourists in 2025, demonstrating the growing market and increasing demand for locally manufactured products.

“The incentives offered by the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, alongside our human resources, can be leveraged to boost production and drive economic growth,” he said.

He said investment opportunities also existed in manufacturing, trade and services associated with tourism and the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

During the conference, Shandong Province Vice Governor Wen Nuan outlined China’s strategies for stimulating economic growth through its Going Global initiative, describing the province as one of the country’s key industrial hubs.

Shandong is China’s third-largest provincial economy by gross domestic product (GDP), with its economic output projected to exceed 10 trillion yuan in 2025.

Mr Omar thanked the Vice Governor for agreeing to organise trade delegations to Zanzibar, allowing Chinese investors to assess first-hand the progress made in improving the islands’ investment climate.

10-day visit

Mr Omar is in China on a 10-day working visit, which began on October 26 and is scheduled to conclude on November 4, 2026, following an invitation from the Shandong Provincial Government and conference organisers.

During the visit, he is scheduled to hold talks with Jinan municipal government leaders, tour industrial parks and meet leading manufacturers as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation.

The visit has already generated interest, with several investors expressing willingness to explore opportunities in Zanzibar, particularly in manufacturing and services across the tourism value chain.

CAFE 2026 serves up feast of culinary talent and opportunity

Sri Lanka’s food and hospitality industry is set to take centre stage at the 23rd edition of the Culinary Art Food Expo (CAFE) 2026, which will feature over 200 exhibition stalls, more than 3,000 culinary competition participants and nearly 4,000 food entries, bringing together chefs, food manufacturers, suppliers, hoteliers and hospitality professionals.

Scheduled to be held from 27 to 29 November at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo, the exhibition is expected to attract over 15,000 visitors, providing a platform for local businesses to showcase their products, establish partnerships and explore opportunities in regional and international markets.

Organised by the Chef’s Guild of Lanka (CGL), in collaboration with CDC Events and Travels Ltd., CAFE 2026 will combine culinary competitions, product exhibitions and industry networking, while highlighting the importance of professional training, entrepreneurship and the development of Sri Lankan culinary talent.

The exhibition was announced at a media launch held yesterday at Marino Beach Hotel, Colombo, attended by industry representatives, sponsors and culinary professionals.

Chef’s Guild of Lanka Chairman Chef Gerard Mendis welcomed the industry partners and highlighted the importance of bringing culinary professionals together to promote the country’s food and hospitality sector.

‘CAFE provides an important platform for our chefs to showcase their talent, share knowledge and demonstrate the standards that Sri Lankan culinary professionals can achieve. We also have a responsibility to encourage young chefs and create opportunities for them to develop their skills and represent Sri Lanka internationally,’ he said.

He also acknowledged the contribution of sponsors and industry partners in supporting the exhibition and the Guild’s ongoing work to develop culinary talent.

Another key objective highlighted at the launch was Sri Lanka’s bid to host the Worldchefs Congress 2030. Mendis expressed optimism about the bid, noting that hosting the international gathering could bring overseas culinary professionals and industry representatives to Sri Lanka.

Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe highlighted the potential of the culinary sector to contribute to economic growth beyond traditional restaurant and hotel operations.

He said the industry offered opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop distinctive food products, build brands and explore export markets, while generating demand across the wider supply chain, including food manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and equipment providers.

Abeysinghe also stressed the importance of raising public awareness of food culture and culinary diversity, noting that greater understanding of different cuisines, ingredients and cooking techniques could help expand demand for new dining experiences and products.

Sri Lanka’s distinctive food culture and flavours could be developed into products and experiences for international markets, creating opportunities for both tourism and exports, he said.

A key highlight of CAFE 2026 will be its culinary competitions, covering disciplines including live cooking, pastry and bakery, chocolate showpieces, cake decorating, fruit and vegetable carving, and mixology.

Chef’s Guild of Lanka Director of Training and Skills Development Chef Madhawa Weerabhaddana outlined preparations for Sri Lanka’s participation in the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg from 21 to 25 November.

Fourteen chefs are expected to represent Sri Lanka at the competition following months of preparation, training and selection. A video presentation at the media launch offered an insight into the national team’s preparations and the work involved in maintaining international standards in food preparation, kitchen operations and safety.

The exhibition will also introduce the World Young Chefs Club Sri Lanka Junior Chefs Culinary Championship 2026 and the Worldchefs Global Butchery Competition 2026 – Sri Lanka.

For the first time, the organisers are encouraging participation from schools and educational institutions, with free participation being offered to most student teams. The initiative aims to give young people opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, gain practical experience and consider careers in the food and hospitality industry.

The Guild also plan to expand opportunities for women in culinary-related competitions and introduce additional product categories, including spices, vanilla and flavouring products.

Selected finalists from a local culinary competition are expected to have the opportunity to compete at the World Culinary Finals in Shanghai in 2027, providing another pathway for Sri Lankan talent to gain international exposure.

Nestlé Lanka Ltd., the Diamond Sponsor of CAFE 2026, reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with the Guild and highlighted the importance of developing young culinary talent.

Nestlé Professional Assistant Director Maduranga Perera said the company had maintained its partnership with the Guild for decades.

‘We have been associated with the Chef’s Guild of Lanka for decades, and we are very happy to see how this event has grown over the years,’ he said.

Chef’s Guild of Lanka Chairman Chef Gerard Mendis, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Nestlé Professional Assistant Director Maduranga Perera

Perera also highlighted the Nestlé Professional Chef Junior program, which provides young people with opportunities to develop culinary skills through training and guidance from industry professionals.

Asriel Marketing Ltd., the Platinum Sponsor, is supporting CAFE for the fourth consecutive year. House of Asriel Chairman Shiran Peiris described the exhibition as an important annual event for the food and hospitality industry.

‘CAFE is a very exciting time for us every year. We look forward to the event, the competitions and the opportunity to see the talent that Sri Lanka continues to produce,’ Peiris said.

CDC Events and Travels Ltd. CEO and Managing Director Imran Hassan said CAFE 2026 would bring together businesses across the food and hospitality value chain.

The exhibition will cover Halls A, B and C at the BMICH, alongside additional exhibition areas and dedicated spaces for culinary competitions. Products and services on display will include processed foods, spices, meat and seafood, bakery and confectionery products, tea and coffee, kitchen and catering equipment, food-processing technology, packaging, tableware and hospitality solutions.

Visitors are expected from across Sri Lanka and regional markets, including South India and the Maldives. The organisers expect the event to facilitate business-to-business networking, generate leads and connect local producers and manufacturers with potential buyers and industry decision-makers.

With its combination of international competitions, industry exhibitions, professional training and business networking, CAFE 2026 aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s culinary profile while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs, food producers and the next generation of chefs.

Green Cabin embraces new chapter of growth preserving 142-year legacy

Cyril Rodrigo Restaurants Ltd., one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and best-loved hospitality brands, is entering a new chapter of growth, building on 142 years of heritage with strategic corporate partnerships and a clear vision for the future.

For nearly a century and a half since it first opened doors, Green Cabin has grown steadily, from its restaurants and bakeries to signature products and outdoor catering. The growth now continues as the company expands into banquet management and corporate catering, taking the trust it has built with Sri Lankan families into new venues, workplaces and occasions.

As the company expands into innovative areas, Green Cabin is transforming to meet the expectations of today’s customers, upgrading menus, food offerings, services and overall customer experience continuing to be true to the authenticity, quality and flavours that have defined the brand.

Cyril Rodrigo’s Restaurants Ltd., Managing Director Chirath Devasurendra said: ‘For generations, Green Cabin has been part of the moments which matter most to Sri Lankan families. As the fifth generation of our family to carry it forward, we are growing into banquets and corporate catering and refreshing menus and service for today’s customers, but our commitment remains the same. We provide authenticity, quality and flavours people have always trusted from us. Green Cabin is evolving, but we are not moving away from what made us special.’

The newly opened Havelock City Club House Café by Green Cabin offering all time-favourites in a beautiful setting

Expanding into corporate catering, Green Cabin will manage the staff cafeteria at the Dialog Axiata PLC Head Office in Union Place.

Recognised for its culinary expertise, commitment to quality, hygiene and service excellence, Green Cabin delivers a high-quality dining experience at the cafeteria, serving breakfast, lunch, savoury snacks, and beverages to employees and visitors, while also providing catering services.

Combining two heritage brands together, Green Cabin has also joined hands with Elephant House, to offer Elephant House ice cream and hot dogs at selected Green Cabin outlets, supported by joint promotions. The collaboration unites two of Sri Lanka’s longest-standing food brands, sharing strong consumer familiarity and commitment to quality, offering customers familiar favourites and greater choice for dine-in and takeaway, with opportunities for a wider rollout based on customer response.

Green Cabin also manages the banquet facilities at Havelock City, the mixed-use development of Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC, as ‘Havelock City Banquets by Green Cabin’. The company was selected for the brand’s decades of experience and trusted reputation in catering and hospitality. As the exclusive catering partner for all events at the venue, Green Cabin provides end-to-end catering, customised menus and event coordination services.

The new chapter rests on a clear principle in which Green Cabin is changing how it serves customers, without losing what has made it special. Its signature products and distinctive flavours, enjoyed by generations of Sri Lankans, will remain at the heart of the brand.

A New Chapter at the Edge of Sinharaja: Rainforest Ecolodge

Managed by Aitken Spence Hotels, the hospitality arm of Aitken Spence PLC, The Rainforest Ecolodge is entering a new chapter, placing the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, its biodiversity, and the communities living alongside it at the heart of the guest experience. This renewed direction strengthens the property’s role as the hospitality gateway to one of Sri Lanka’s most significant natural landscapes, bringing together responsible hospitality, conservation, and the spirit of discovery.

Set within the Enselwatte Tea Estate and adjoining the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the ecolodge occupies one of Sri Lanka’s most extraordinary natural settings and holds a LEED® Platinum certification from the US Green Building Council, reflecting the principles of sustainability embedded in its design and construction. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and the Biosphere Reserve, the Sinharaja is Sri Lanka’s last viable area of primary tropical rainforest, supporting an exceptional concentration of endemic plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and aquatic life.

The relaunch positions The Rainforest Ecolodge as the hospitality gateway to this living ecosystem: a place for travellers who want to do more than simply stay near nature. It is designed for those who want to enter the forest with curiosity, understand what they encounter, immerse themselves in the rainforest, and leave with a stronger connection to the natural world and self.’

‘The Rainforest Ecolodge gives us an opportunity to bring people closer to one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable natural treasures, while ensuring that conservation and local communities remain an integral part of that experience. I strongly believe that’s how we create meaningful travel experiences. This is very much in keeping with how we, at Aitken Spence, see the future of tourism; thoughtful, responsible, and deeply connected to place,’ commented Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairman/Chairperson – Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC.

‘Our vision for The Rainforest Ecolodge is to create a deeper relationship between hospitality, conservation and discovery. The Sinharaja is an extraordinary natural asset, and our responsibility is to ensure that every guest experience contributes to a greater understanding and appreciation of this remarkable landscape, while supporting the communities that live alongside it. We want the ecolodge to be more than just a place to stay; we want it to become a meaningful gateway to understanding one of Sri Lanka’s most vital and vibrant ecosystems,’ said Susith Jayawickrama, Managing Director – Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC.

The ecolodge’s approach has received recognition across sustainability and hospitality platforms. In 2026, The Rainforest Ecolodge was named Silver Winner in the ‘Nature Positive’ category at the ICRT Indian Subcontinent Awards, recognising its work in biodiversity conservation, responsible nature-based experiences, community benefit, and conservation education. It was also named Sri Lanka’s Leading Lodge 2026 at the World Travel Awards, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most distinctive nature-led stays.

Recognised as Sri Lanka’s first officially classified ecolodge by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, the property was conceived around responsible tourism from the beginning. Its 20 chalets were created using repurposed shipping containers and other recycled materials, allowing the accommodation to sit lightly within the surrounding tea estate at the forest’s edge. Private decks, modern amenities and immersive views offer comfort without separating guests from the landscape.

Yet the true experience begins beyond the chalet.

Early mornings unfold to a chorus of birdsong, with guided birdwatching walks offering glimpses of mixed-species flocks moving through the canopy and endemic birds appearing in flashes of colour. Daytime trails introduce guests to the layered structure of the rainforest, its medicinal plants and diverse wildlife, while waterfall journeys lead through forested paths to clear streams and natural pools. Night walks reveal an entirely different ecosystem shaped by frog calls, moths, geckos, bats, and other nocturnal life.

The lodge’s location at the meeting point of dense rainforest and cultivated tea land creates a distinctive ecological transition zone, offering naturalists, photographers, and citizen scientists, opportunities to observe how wildlife moves between different habitats.

The property’s developing Nature Interpretation Centre and Online Knowledge Hub will bring together information, publications, audiovisual material, species profiles, conservation insights, and field notes related to the Sinharaja. They are intended to serve travellers, students, citizen scientists, and nature enthusiasts before, during, and after their stay, transforming the ecolodge into a growing repository of rainforest knowledge.

Future collaborations with conservation organisations, universities, naturalists, wildlife photographers, artists, wellness practitioners, and biodiversity experts, will broaden the scope and deepen the impact of this initiative. The ambition is to support citizen science efforts, observations, and acoustic indulgences, conservation storytelling and responsible access to the rainforest, while creating a facilitation platform through which experts and enthusiasts can share their findings with a wider audience.

Community remains central to this model. Local employment, naturalist-led experiences, productive community relations and engagement, rural knowledge, food traditions, and livelihoods all connect the guest experience to the surrounding region. From ‘kithul’ tapping and medicinal plant knowledge to tea cultivation and village life, the rainforest story is inseparable from the people who have lived and worked beside it for generations.

This is where regenerative tourism becomes more than an idea. Guests are invited to experience the Sinharaja with care, support local livelihoods, and understand how conservation benefits both ecosystems and communities. The aim is not simply to reduce impact, but to build a tourism model that contributes meaningfully to the long-term ecological and social health of the locality.

For the conscious explorer, The Rainforest Ecolodge offers a rare kind of escape. It is a place to disconnect from noise, reconnect with nature, pursue a lifelong interest in wildlife, or begin learning about biodiversity for the first time. It can be a retreat for birdwatchers, photographers, artists, and nature lovers, or simply a quiet space for travellers seeking stillness, fresh air, and a deeper sense of place.

The Rainforest Ecolodge is re-emerging as a conservation support and interpretation hub, a premium rainforest retreat and the hospitality gateway to one of Sri Lanka’s greatest natural treasures.

Here, adventure is guided by knowledge, hospitality is shaped by responsibility and every journey into the forest begins with a simple invitation: ‘Come and look closer.’

About Aitken Spence Hotels

Aitken Spence Hotels is the hospitality arm of Aitken Spence PLC, a leading Sri Lankan blue-chip conglomerate, with a diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Oman and India. Heritance Hotels and Resorts is the flagship brand of Aitken Spence Hotels, complemented by Adaaran Hotels and Resorts and Turyaa. Together, the brands offer a diverse range of hospitality experiences across leisure, luxury, and lifestyle destinations.

Commons Coffee House: A new home, the same heart

Commons, the first home grown coffee house, now in its 21st year, is at 62 Kynsey Road, Colombo 07, with a refreshed space and plenty to discover. Situated in a charming heritage 100 year home in an elegant neighborhood and at night the home transforms into a magical setting, with ambient lighting that creates a warm, enchanting atmosphere.

The revamped menu invites you to discover exciting new flavors and savor fresh culinary delights, while still enjoying all the familiar favorites you know and love! Starting with Breakfast from 8 am onwards with a delightful menu, continues to serve much-loved Western favorites to the authentic flavors of Sri Lankan roti and hoppers, offering something delicious for everyone to enjoy.

Desserts take center stage at Commons, featuring tempting cakes and sweet treats alongside delightful new creations by experienced Pastry Chef Kapila.

The fresh selection of hot and cold coffees, are there to sip and savor, including the popular Double choc milkshake, refreshing juices and for a little extra indulgence, discover the Gelato Bar by Peddler’s Inn – the perfect finishing touch to your dining experience.

There are new working spaces, alongside cozy corners and more private dining options, providing a spot for every guest to enjoy at Commons Coffee House. Commons feature art by talented local artists, and selected pieces are available for sale.

Enjoy the added convenience of easy access and ample parking for a hassle-free visit, along with a lovely garden setting where you can sit back, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors when weather permits.

Open all year through from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and till 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Menu is available on Uber and Pick me delivery services and also for takeaway.

The Roti cart is available for outside catering services along with a selection of buffet and cocktail menus to enjoy Commons food at your next event.

Commons facilities also include Cheryl G salon for all hair care and styling services conveniently located at the restaurant premises.

KolaDaisi varsity VC highlights quality teaching governance as institution marks 10 years

The Vice-Chancellor of KolaDaisi University Ibadan Professor Olajumoke Morenikeji said the true value of a higher institution lies in the quality of its teaching students’ intellectual development and the integrity of its governance rather than the number of years it has existed programmes offered or physical structures.

Morenikeji spoke on Monday at a press conference held on the university campus in Ibadan ahead of its 10th anniversary and sixth convocation ceremony.

She said the briefing was organised not only to announce activities lined up for the celebrations but also to review the institution’s achievements over the past decade and outline its future priorities.

The vice-chancellor recalled that KolaDaisi University popularly known as KDU was established ten years ago by business mogul and Bashorun of Ibadanland Chief Kola Daisi.

She said the institution was founded with a commitment to providing quality tertiary education producing graduates with sound character and practical competence and contributing to Nigeria’s social and economic development.

Reflecting on the state of tertiary education in the country the Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the future of private universities will not be determined by building expansion or multiplying academic programmes but by strict adherence to quality assurance institutional governance professional accreditation and graduates’ marketability.

Professor Morenikeji said at the briefing that the university will graduate a record 224 students across 16 academic disciplines at the upcoming convocation ceremony.

She pointed out that the university has grown from a modest total of 52 graduates in its early years to 224 this year reflecting steady expansion made possible by sustained investments in modern lecture rooms well-equipped laboratories comfortable hostel accommodation robust ICT infrastructure and other essential facilities for a modern learning environment.

She reassured parents and stakeholders of the institution’s academic standards explaining that KDU has secured full accreditation from the National Universities Commission for most of its academic programmes across various faculties while others are currently undergoing routine re-accreditation.

The university presently runs competitive programmes spanning humanities sciences law health sciences and engineering including specialised courses such as Biochemistry Microbiology Industrial Chemistry Computer Science Cybersecurity Accounting Business Administration Economics Mass Communication Law and History and Diplomatic Studies.

Beyond academic approval the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university has earned key professional approvals notably from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and is actively engaging other regulatory and professional bodies to ensure KDU graduates have clear uninterrupted professional pathways upon graduation.

To further elevate the institution’s academic standing Professor Morenikeji highlighted ongoing efforts to build a robust research culture.

She noted that KDU has instituted formal research and intellectual property policies established a centralised database of research outputs and provided strong support for digital research infrastructure and competitive grant proposals.

She shared notable examples of the university’s research achievements including a patented plant-based bio-pesticide formulated locally from lemongrass and orange peel extract.

She also cited international recognition achieved by KDU scholars such as Dr. John Akintola’s research visit to a prestigious institute in France Dr. Anne Adeyonju’s research endeavours in Canada and Dr. Tenuola’s award of a child grant by the Maria Sibylla Merian Institute for Advanced Studies in Africa for critical research on displacement and indigenous farming practices in South-West Nigeria.

Many other academic staff she added continue to represent the university at international symposia and benefit from foreign academic fellowships.

Professor Morenikeji stressed that learning at KDU extends beyond classroom lectures explaining that several academic departments have struck partnerships with industry leaders to secure practical hands-on training for students while university teams work actively to link graduating talent directly with employers through organised job fairs.

In addition KDU has partnered with technical institutes to offer campus-based vocational certifications in high-demand skills such as multimedia installation lighting and stage management videography creative production and event management.

On student welfare and community engagement the Vice-Chancellor reiterated the management’s dedication to maintaining a safe comfortable and vibrant campus life.

She listed ongoing investments in healthcare sports host-building projects internet connectivity and a partnership under the National Health Insurance Scheme to guarantee affordable medical care for all students. She also commended KDU’s community outreach initiatives which include regular free health drives and infrastructural support for market women within the host communities.

Looking ahead to the next decade Professor Morenikeji revealed that management will focus heavily on deepening educational quality strengthening teaching and learning expanding research and innovation building strong industry partnerships for graduate employment and improving overall campus welfare and infrastructure.

She reassured the public that while the first decade established the foundational building blocks the coming decade will deepen KDU’s impact and solidify public confidence in its mission.

Charging the graduating set to be worthy ambassadors of their alma mater the Vice-Chancellor urged them to remain humble innovative and principled as they step into the world letting the quality of their choices the excellence of their work and their service to humanity speak for their education.

Earlier in his opening remarks the Registrar of the university Mr. Haruna Adetu welcomed media executives and guests to the briefing. He announced that the 10th anniversary and sixth convocation ceremonies will span two weeks running from October 26 to November 5 and will feature sports competitions community health outreaches entrepreneurship exhibitions award presentations the formal conferment of degrees and a high-profile Convocation Lecture to be delivered by former President of Nigeria Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

FG unveils vision for modern fire rescue service

The Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to transform the Federal Fire Service into a full-fledged fire and rescue service.

The Minister disclosed this on Monday in Abuja at the 2026 National Fire Safety Week under the theme ‘Building a Fire-Resilient Nigeria: One Community at a Time.’

Dr. Tunji-Ojo identified the outdated legal framework as the major obstacle to reform stating that the Fire Service Act which dates back to more than 60 years cannot adequately support the demands of a modern fire and rescue service.

‘No matter how good an action is if the law does not empower you to do it it becomes illegal’ the Minister stated.

He commended the Comptroller-General of the Federal Fire Service Olumode Samuel Adeyemi for the achievements recorded under the existing legal framework particularly the significant improvement in response times.

The Minister in a statement signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations in the Ministry Mrs Mary Ali emphasized that the proposed new law would provide the necessary legal backing for even greater performance.

Tunji-Ojo called for stronger fire inspections and enforcement of fire safety codes supported by trained fire marshals in every district and community. He also advocated the integration of rescue techniques and basic life-saving skills into school curricula at all levels to equip more Nigerians with the knowledge to perform basic resuscitation during emergencies.

He urged the Federal Fire Service to collaborate with educational institutions to make these skills a national norm.

The Minister disclosed that the National Fire Academy situated on approximately 23 hectares of land in Sheda Kwali FCT is 85 per cent complete and expected to be ready by the end of the year.

The facility will feature drill towers classrooms a library a training centre a health centre and hostel accommodation for more than 3000 trainees at a time. It will also be powered by solar energy.

He added that the fire hydrant facility is expected to be completed by December while the National Fire Academy will be commissioned upon completion.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo disclosed that the Federal Government had cleared a backlog of more than 50000 promotions across the Ministry’s paramilitary agencies. He stated that promotions are now concluded before December each year.

According to him the 2026 promotion exercise has been completed while preparations for the 2027 exercise have commenced. He further revealed that nearly 100000 promotions had been effected in less than 10 years.

The Minister disclosed that approximately 5000 candidates were in the final stage of the latest recruitment exercise which involves drug testing documentation and deployment.

He also announced that the number of Federal Fire Service commands had increased from six to 18 creating more opportunities for career advancement. In addition he confirmed that officers’ risk allowances and other allowances had been approved.

Mining: Alake demands extended human capital development to maximise sector potential

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr. Dele Alake has stressed that prioritising human capital development is essential to fully unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria’s extractive sector.

He made the assertion on Monday during the inauguration of the maiden edition of the NGSA Post-NYSC Graduate Youth Knowledge Empowerment and Capacity-Building Programme in Abuja organised by the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) in collaboration with the Ministry.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo the Minister emphasized that empowering young professionals with field-ready expertise remains the bedrock of sustainable growth in the mining industry.

‘Nigeria’s vast deposits of gold lithium iron ore barite and limestone offer immense opportunities for economic diversification industrialisation job creation and revenue generation. However maximizing this wealth requires a deliberate investment in our human resource capacity to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application’ Alake stated.

He called on the NGSA to scale up the capacity-building initiative urging the agency to partner with key stakeholders to broaden its reach.

‘To maximise the benefits of our mineral wealth we must expand human development initiatives across the sector. I urge the NGSA to deepen its collaboration with universities research institutions professional bodies and private sector operators. This will ensure that more young geoscientists are equipped with the practical skills required to drive the industry forward’ he said.

Alake advised participants to master core practical modules-including geological mapping mineral exploration remote sensing GIS and laboratory analysis-while urging them to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset.

‘Do not rely solely on conventional white-collar employment. I encourage you to leverage the practical skills gained here to explore entrepreneurship in mineral testing exploration support services mineral processing environmental consultancy and mining technology’ Alake added.

Earlier in his address the Director-General of the NGSA Professor Olusegun Ige explained that the programme was conceived to resolve the shortage of practical exposure commonly faced by geology graduates during their tertiary studies.

‘We received nearly 500 applications for this maiden edition but due to resource constraints we selected a competitive pool with balanced representation across all six geopolitical zones. Our senior experienced NGSA professionals will serve as facilitators to give these graduates the hands-on exposure required by the industry’ Ige noted.

Highlighting the agency’s ongoing commitment to manpower development Ige referenced past initiatives including the sponsorship and recognition of outstanding university research projects-one of whose award recipients was subsequently absorbed into the agency as an intern.

Supporting the Minister’s call former NGSA Director-General Alex Ndubuisi described the initiative as a timely intervention to correct academic equipment deficits in universities urging the agency to expand intake numbers for subsequent editions.

Representing the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) Engr. Simon Nkom the Senior Special Assistant on Technical Matters Mr. Dauda Dinga commended the workshop and advocated for its expansion to cover mining engineering graduates noting that ‘competent geoscientists and mining engineers are the twin pillars of effective mineral title administration and sustainable extraction.’

Also speaking the representative of the Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University Keffi Professor Nathaniel Goki reaffirmed academia’s support for the initiative calling for sustained institutional collaboration between universities and the NGSA in joint research and access to seismic monitoring data.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries trainee representative Nana Yakubu expressed gratitude to the Ministry and the NGSA for the platform pledging that the participants would maximize the training to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s solid minerals landscape.

Irene Agbo features in Black History Month theatre production

Actress Irene Agbo has appeared in 10 Decades: The Black Race a theatre production staged for Black History Month to explore Black history identity heritage and the experiences of Black communities across generations.

The production uses theatre to examine historical events cultural identity struggles and achievements that have shaped Black communities while highlighting the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.

Agbo played a key acting role in the production which sought to bring historical experiences to life through character interpretation dialogue and dramatic performances.

The play explored themes of resilience cultural memory identity belonging and the continuing quest for recognition among Black people.

Her participation formed part of the production’s broader storytelling effort to connect historical events with human experiences allowing audiences to reflect on how the past continues to influence present-day identities and communities.

Through costume movement facial expressions and dialogue the performers sought to portray the characters’ experiences and emotions within the historical narrative.

The production also highlighted theatre’s role in preserving cultural heritage and making historical accounts accessible beyond conventional history books.

Unlike presentations that focus mainly on dates and historical milestones 10 Decades: The Black Race sought to explore the human experiences behind history including the struggles sacrifices and achievements of generations of Black people.

Agbo’s involvement added to the collective performance encouraging conversations about Black heritage and the importance of keeping historical narratives alive.

The production formed part of activities marking Black History Month an annual observance dedicated to recognising the contributions history and cultural heritage of people of African descent.

Through the stage presentation the organisers sought to remind audiences that Black history is not merely a record of past events but a continuing narrative that shapes identity culture and society.

CAN Hausa Yoruba communities endorse Tinubu for 2027

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) South-East zone and the Hausa and Yoruba communities in Ebonyi State have endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in the 2027 general election.

The groups declared their support for the President on Monday at a town hall meeting in Abakaliki organised by the Directorate of Infrastructure Mobilisation and Sensitisation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC).

Speaking at the meeting the President of the Christian Fellowship of Nigeria (CFN) South-East zone Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali commended Tinubu for what he described as his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in the South-East.

He urged members of the association and other residents of the region to support the President’s re-election bid in appreciation of his administration’s contributions to the zone.

Nwali said support for Tinubu would also be a way to appreciate the Minister of Works Senator David Umahi for his efforts in attracting federal projects to the region.

‘We owe our leader the President and the Minister of Works His Excellency Senator David Umahi appreciation. The only way we can show that appreciation is to support the President in the 2027 general election’ he said.

Also speaking former President of the Women Wing of the association Mrs Uche Charity Ujunwa said the Tinubu administration had introduced reforms that were beginning to have a positive impact on the country.

She urged Nigerians to support the President for a second term arguing that four years was not enough to address the country’s challenges and implement far-reaching reforms.

‘This administration has started a work. Let us give them a chance to complete their eight years.

‘Nigeria is too big to be governed and put things in place under four years. It is not possible. Let us support President Bola Tinubu. Let us not divide our votes’ she said.

The leader of the CAN South-East Youth Wing Peter Onyeabor assured the President of the support of Christian youths across the region promising to mobilise them for his re-election.

Similarly the leader of the Yoruba community in Ebonyi Kazeem Bankole and his Hausa counterpart Alhaji Danjuma Gambo pledged to mobilise their respective communities to support Tinubu and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

Addressing the gathering Umahi who is also the Director of Infrastructure Mobilisation and Sensitisation of the APC Presidential Campaign Council urged the people of the South-East to set aside political and ethnic sentiments and support Tinubu’s re-election.

He argued that supporting the President for another four years would strengthen the South-East’s chances of producing a president who could also serve a full eight-year tenure when power eventually shifts to the region.

Umahi maintained that the South-East needed an eight-year presidential tenure rather than a four-year arrangement insisting that the region must support the completion of Tinubu’s second term to advance its own political aspirations.

‘What we the people of the South-East want is eight years of presidency and not four years.

‘The people who are saying that somebody should rule for only four years as President ruled for eight years as governor. If four years were enough why did they govern for eight years as governors? They would have stopped at four years.

‘Four years is an introduction. Our position as leaders of the South-East is that the Igbo need a full eight years in office. We must support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu so that we can also rule for eight years when our time comes for the position’ Umahi said.