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Environmental protection has long been a central issue at international fora, underscoring its importance to global development and sustainability. The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, recently reaffirmed her strong commitment to embedding environmental considerations into all of the organisation’s operations and programmes. Drawing on UNESCO’s expertise in sustainability and climate action, she emphasised the need to ‘bring about sustainability from within.’

In recognition of this global urgency, the United Nations General Assembly established the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and its Governing Council in 1972, creating the institutional and financial framework for international cooperation. This initiative catalysed the development of over ten global environmental treaties, hundreds of regional and bilateral agreements, and far-reaching action plans such as Agenda 21, the UN’s blueprint for sustainable development at global, national, and local levels.

‘Through such initiatives, Rite Foods reinforces the message that environmental protection is not only a global responsibility but also a corporate obligation.’

Agenda 21 highlighted the defining challenge of humanity: widening inequalities, persistent poverty and hunger, deteriorating health and education, and the ongoing destruction of ecosystems. It stressed that integrating environmental and developmental priorities could meet basic needs, improve living standards, safeguard ecosystems, and secure a more prosperous and sustainable future.

These concerns reached a critical milestone at the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development (the Earth Summit) in Rio de Janeiro. The Summit marked a turning point in global policy by merging two issues that had previously been addressed in isolation: environmental protection and economic development. For developing nations, this was a breakthrough, offering hope for stronger North-South cooperation and greater economic justice. The Summit yielded landmark outcomes, including two legally binding treaties, the Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as the Rio Declaration, forest management principles, and the comprehensive Agenda 21 plan.

A key outcome of Rio was the global recognition of clean energy as central to combating environmental degradation and climate change. Today, the International Day of Clean Energy, declared by the UN General Assembly in 2023, raises awareness and mobilises collective action toward a fair and inclusive energy transition. This shift is critical: most greenhouse gas emissions originate from burning fossil fuels for electricity and heat, which blanket the Earth and accelerate global warming.

Despite progress, the world remains off track to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which targets universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy by 2030. Without dramatic reductions in emissions, global temperatures could rise by 2.9°C this century – a catastrophic scenario for human survival. UNEP, aligned with the Paris Agreement, continues to spearhead urgent measures to counter this threat.

At the national level, private sector players have stepped up to complement global efforts.

Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s food and beverage company, has embedded sustainability thinking into its operations from inception. The company invests heavily in cleaner energy solutions, relying on gas-powered generators and a solar farm to meet its energy needs, with zero dependence on the national grid. Currently, gas and solar account for over 95% of Rite Foods’ energy sources, a strategy that has significantly reduced carbon emissions compared to diesel-powered alternatives while ensuring efficient, reliable, and environmentally responsible production.

Through such initiatives, Rite Foods reinforces the message that environmental protection is not only a global responsibility but also a corporate obligation. Its leadership in clean energy offers a model for how businesses across Africa can align with global climate goals, safeguard ecosystems, and secure a greener, more sustainable future.

Against this backdrop, the company, in its commitment to environmental conservation, has been championing the cause of responsible waste management practices through plastic waste collection and recycling operations in the country, especially in Lagos coastline communities, with regular clean-up exercises at Ilashe, Tarkwa Bay beaches, and other communities at the shorelines, thereby ridding the waterways and oceans of pollution and safeguarding aquatic life that local communities depend on for their livelihoods.

The company’s sustainability programme, with Riteonthebeach, which is in partnership with Pop Beach, was launched in August 2021 and went live in the Lagos beach communities in January 2022, with success stories, and geared towards ecological protection, has effectively removed over 40 tonnes of plastics from Lagos’ environment in July 2025 alone, with a further move to scale the programme beyond the traditional collection and evacuation of plastics from the Lagos shorelines.

As a proudly Nigerian brand that is deeply committed to community development, these initiatives have been designed to not only rid communities of plastic waste but also empower residents to actively participate in plastic collection, recycling, and community enrichment. The proceeds from these recycling projects are directed toward providing essential school supplies for children in Lagos’ shoreline communities, demonstrating how environmental stewardship can directly improve lives.

The company’s commitment aligns with global observances such as World Environment Day, World Clean-Up Day, and the International Day of Clean Energy. Through its partnership with Popbeachclub, founded by eco-activist Akin Disu, Rite Foods has driven coastal clean-ups and promoted recycling as a catalyst for sustainable living. Collaborations with the Sterling One Foundation at Lafiaji Beach and with Lasgidi Recyclers at the Iru community further reinforced these efforts, ensuring that plastics and other solid wastes were removed from beaches, communities, and drainage systems.

These collaborations reinforce Rite Foods’ long-standing commitment to awareness creation on proper waste disposal and recycling, engaging staff, volunteers, and residents in coastal communities to foster healthier, cleaner environments. Community leaders and residents have consistently applauded the company for its bold vision of restoring Lagos’ beaches and waterways, particularly through plastics collection that transforms waste into resources of new value.

During the 2025 Plastic Free July Campaign, Rite Foods, through its Rite on The Beach programme, engaged residents across various cluster points and markets in Lagos, distributing recovery bags for plastic collection and creating awareness on responsible waste disposal. This initiative recorded the recovery of over 40 tonnes of plastic from Lagos’ environment. The company employees were also engaged during the challenge, with the employees resident in Lagos sorting and returning 288 kg of plastics, which helped save nearly 294 kg of CO2 equivalent emissions, an inspiring example of collective responsibility in action.

Seleem Adegunwa, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods, emphasised that these actions prove how consistent, collective efforts can transform the environment and support a circular economy aligned with Lagos State’s ecological programmes.

Echoing this, Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to recycling PET bottles and promoting its flagship RiteOnTheBeach project, which has become a model for sustainable, community-driven solutions to plastic pollution.

According to Eze, if plastics continue to choke waterways and shorelines, ecosystems will lose their ability to support biodiversity. Rite Foods’ interventions, therefore, are both urgent and strategic, protecting not only the environment but also livelihoods and future generations.

Popbeachclub’s founder, Akin Disu, further praised the partnership, noting that millions of plastics have been collected through their joint efforts, which also foster literacy, employment, and scholarships for children in coastal communities.

The company’s impressive environmental track record complements its reputation as Nigeria’s Food Company of the Year 2024 at the Independent Media Awards. Its brand portfolio-featuring 13 Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink variants, Bigi Premium Drinking Water, Sosa Fruit Drink in five flavours, the market-leading Fearless Energy Drink, and Rite and Bigi Sausages-is proudly produced in a state-of-the-art facility powered by clean, sustainable technology.

Among its many laurels are Most Innovative Carbonated Soft Drink Brand of the Year (Bigi), Most Outstanding Energy Drink in Consumer Engagement (Fearless), Best Value for Money – Carbonated Drink 2023 (Bigi Cola), Best Value for Money – Energy Drink 2023 (Fearless), Best Value for Money – Sausage Brand 2023 (Bigi Sausage Roll), and Outstanding New Product of the Year – Juice 2023 (Sosa Fruit Drink).

Through its dual commitment to people and planet, Rite Foods has positioned itself not only as a leader in Nigeria’s food and beverage sector but also as a force for environmental transformation, community development, and sustainable innovation.

The Alternative Bank has reaffirmed its dedication to contributing to the State’s infrastructural and environmental enhancement through the development and maintenance of branded open public spaces.

Mustapha Ajisafe, team lead, The Alternative Bank Ibadan, made the pledge during a courtesy to Oludolapo Eso-Ajanaku, director-general of the Oyo State Signage and Advertisement Agency (OYSAA) in Oyo State.

The visit aimed at exploring collaborative opportunities to enhance infrastructural and environmental development within Oyo State.

The delegation from The Alternative Bank was led by Mustapha Ajisafe, team lead, Ibadan, who represented Mohammed Yunusa, director, Digital Business and Innovation, and was accompanied by Ufuoma Emiemie, relationship manager. Also present were the directors of Operations, Finance, and Administration and Services of OYSAA.

During the meeting, The Alternative Bank presented safety equipment and branded materials to OYSAA as part of its broader commitment to supporting sustainable development and promoting safety across Oyo State.

Speaking during the visit, Ajisafe noted that the initiative aligns with the bank’s corporate social responsibility and investment drive within the State.

‘We are delighted to collaborate with the Oyo State Signage and Advertisement Agency as we continue to strengthen our footprint in Oyo State,’ he said. ‘Beyond banking, our goal is to support initiatives that promote safety, structure, and community development.’

Ajisafe further highlighted that The Alternative Bank’s philosophy is centred on the creation of wealth, a principle reflected in its wide range of innovative solutions designed to make life easier and more impactful for individuals and businesses.

‘We have developed tailored products for education, e-commerce, MSMES, as well as vehicle, housing, and equipment financing,’ he added.

In his response, the director-general of OYSAA expressed profound appreciation to The Alternative Bank for its gesture and continued commitment to the growth of Oyo State.

The International Advertising Association (IAA), a leading global network connecting professionals in marketing, communications, and media, has announced the election of Steve Babaeko, Group Chief Executive Officer and Chief Creative Officer of X3M Ideas, as Vice President and Area Director for Africa on its Global Board.

In this role, Babaeko will lead the IAA’s efforts across Africa, focusing on expanding its reach, strengthening collaboration among industry stakeholders, and ensuring that African perspectives are well represented in global marketing discussions.

‘Africa is bold, creative, and bursting with potential. It’s time the world took notice and I am here to help make that happen,’ Babaeko said. ‘This is more than a title; it’s a commitment to build bridges between markets, minds, and movements. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected global marketing community.’

Babaeko succeeds Mrs Norkor Duah of Ghana, whose leadership advanced the IAA’s footprint across the continent. Building on her achievements, he plans to deepen the association’s presence in emerging markets, support local talent, and promote stronger industry representation on the international stage.

Babaeko’s election represents another step in a career rooted in creativity, leadership, and advocacy for African marketing. As a two-term President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) and a Visiting Fellow at Henley Business School, United Kingdom, he has worked to empower young professionals and promote African innovation in the global creative economy.

Under his leadership, X3M Ideas has expanded from a Nigerian agency into one of Africa’s growing independent networks, with offices in South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, Congo Brazzaville, Dubai, and London. The company remains the only Nigerian and West African agency to have received a Cannes Lions Award.

‘The IAA has always stood for global collaboration and the advancement of marketing communications. Steve’s appointment embodies our belief that Africa is a critical voice in shaping the future of our industry,’ said Frederik Borestrom, World President and Chairman of the IAA Global Board.

Babaeko’s appointment signals growing recognition of Africa’s role in shaping the global marketing landscape and marks a new phase of continental engagement within the IAA.

The federal government has pledged to support the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation (CNMF) West African Regional Conference in Abuja.

Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, stated this on Tuesday at the State House, Abuja, when the leadership of the association paid him a courtesy visit ahead of the event.

Gbajabiamila, speaking at the event, reiterated the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to healthcare reforms, noting that health remains one of the government’s top priorities.

He cited several recent achievements, including the revitalisation of primary healthcare centres, the expansion of national health insurance coverage from 20 million to 60 million Nigerians, and increased investment in health infrastructure and manpower development.

He also congratulated the association for securing the hosting right, the first in West Africa, and emphasised the need for a clear implementation plan to guide government support.ý

‘Thank you for taking the time to come and inform us on what you’re doing. Congratulations that you will be hosting this Commonwealth event in April next year, the first of its kind.ý

‘We wish you all the very best, and undoubtedly, government will play whatever role it deems fit and is in a position to play.ý

‘I think it’s important if this office can get a clear plan as to where you are, the roadmap to April, what you’ve done, and how you intend to execute it,’ Gbajabiamila said.ý

He also called for synergy between the association, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, for seamless coordination.ý

Earlier, Haruna Mamman, the National President of NANNM, had appealed for support from the federal government in hosting the conference scheduled for April 20 to 24, 2026.ý

He said hosting the West African regional CNMF conference would benefit Nigeria and showcase the country’s leadership in healthcare.ý

Mamman disclosed that the event, which will attract nurses and midwives from 56 Commonwealth countries, will also be attended by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey.ý

According to him, the conference aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and will promote professional excellence and international collaboration in the health sector.ý

He requested the support of the federal government in visa facilitation, financial support, and hosting of CNMF executives from the United Kingdom, Europe, and Africa.ý

Mamman also requested for a courtesy visit to President Tinubu by the CNMF leadership and for the President to officially flag off the conference in April 2026.ý

‘We are not in doubt of the political will of Mr. President to make Nigeria a reference nation to others. We believe this conference will further make Nigeria a pride of the continent,’ Mamman said.ý

The CNMF conference is expected to focus on strengthening healthcare systems, advancing nursing practice, and enhancing collaboration across Commonwealth member nations.

Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Nigerian military Head of State, has urged Nigerians to set aside political, ethnic, and religious differences in defense of the nation’s sovereignty, stressing that unity and wisdom are crucial as the country faces what he described as ‘serious external provocations.’

Speaking from London during a telephone interview with journalists on Tuesday, the elder statesman expressed concern over reported remarks attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, which he said posed a ‘grave threat’ to Nigeria’s hard-earned peace and unity.

Abubakar, a retired General, noted that such comments, if not handled with caution, could undermine Nigeria’s stability and strain diplomatic relations between Abuja and Washington.

‘This is a moment for Nigerians to come together and protect the sovereignty and integrity of our nation,’ the former leader said. ‘We must not allow external influences or inflammatory statements to divide us. Unity, wisdom, and diplomacy must take precedence over division and pride at this critical time.’

Abubakar, who led Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999, emphasised that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and collective resolve to overcome challenges. He warned against political and social divisions that could be exploited by external actors to destabilise the nation.

‘I am deeply concerned about the recent reports of comments made by President Trump. Nigeria has worked hard to build peace and maintain stability over the years, and any statement that threatens that progress must be treated seriously but wisely,’ he added.

Calling for calm and restraint, Abubakar urged Nigerian leaders and citizens alike to respond to the situation with a spirit of unity and maturity. He advised that confrontation or emotional reactions would only worsen tensions. Instead, he advocated for ‘quiet diplomacy and strategic engagement’ with the United States to de-escalate the situation and address underlying concerns.

According to him, ‘It is important that our government engages Washington through constructive dialogue. The path of diplomacy and mutual respect must guide our actions. Nigeria and the United States have long-standing ties that should not be jeopardised by miscommunication or hasty conclusions.’

Abubakar also appealed to the U.S. administration to demonstrate partnership and understanding, particularly in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity. He emphasised that genuine allies should support one another in confronting shared global threats rather than resorting to rhetoric that could inflame tensions.

‘The United States has always been a strategic partner to Nigeria. Instead of threats, we expect collaboration in tackling insecurity and promoting peace in West Africa,’ he said. ‘We should be looking at ways to strengthen cooperation, not weaken it.’

The former military ruler further noted that Nigeria’s leadership must act decisively yet prudently in managing foreign relations, warning that national pride should not eclipse pragmatic diplomacy. ‘Wisdom dictates that we engage rather than confront. We must remember that our common goal is peace, stability, and prosperity for all Nigerians,’ he stated.

Abubakar’s intervention comes amid growing public debate over the tone of international relations and Nigeria’s response to perceived external pressures. Political analysts say his comments reflect concerns within the country’s diplomatic and security circles about maintaining national cohesion during a sensitive period.

Concluding his remarks, Abubakar reiterated his faith in Nigeria’s resilience and ability to overcome challenges through unity and dialogue. ‘We have weathered many storms as a nation,’ he said. ‘This is another test of our collective resolve. Let us act with wisdom, speak with one voice, and uphold the dignity of our country.’

The Department of State Services (DSS) has dismissed 115 of its personnel as part of ongoing internal reforms aimed at strengthening discipline and professionalism within the agency.

In a statement on Tuesday, the secret police said the decision followed a series of internal reviews and accountability measures designed to ensure that only officers of integrity remain in its ranks.

The DSS cautioned members of the public against engaging with any of the dismissed personnel, some of whom it said continue to pose as active officers to defraud unsuspecting citizens.

The Service specifically drew attention to earlier disclaimers issued on Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, who were among those dismissed and are allegedly still impersonating DSS operatives for fraudulent purposes.

‘Members of the public are advised to desist from any official dealings with these individuals who have been dismissed by the Service,’ the statement warned.

To promote transparency, the DSS said it had published the full list of affected officers on its official website: (https://www.dss.gov.ng/media/more/4).

The agency also encouraged citizens to verify the identity of any person claiming to represent the Service before engaging with them, noting that official enquiries and complaints could be directed to its hotline, 09088373515 or via email at [email protected].

Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has expressed concern over the recent designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) by the US President Donald Trump , describing the development as a serious reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.

Obi, in a statement on Monday, said the U.S. pronouncement and its indication of possible military action against Nigeria ‘should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern.’

He noted that the country is witnessing ‘an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and the most shocking loss of lives and property,’ adding that the situation has worsened due to the government’s failure to act decisively.

Citing reports by Amnesty International, Obi said: ‘Over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023, and as I have repeatedly lamented, the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop.’

The former Anambra State governor blamed the persistent insecurity on leadership failure, saying the tragic situation ‘is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance.’

He criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he described as a lack of capacity and patriotism in addressing the country’s mounting challenges.

‘While the insecurity did not start with the present government, what is most unfortunate is the lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of the APC-led government to effectively govern, galvanise and lead Nigeria where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed, a nation where peace, truth and justice reign,’ he said.

Obi called for diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the United States to address the concerns raised, stressing the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations.

‘As democracies, Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter. The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns,’ he said.

He urged both nations to ‘work in concert and expeditiously’ to restore peace and stability in Nigeria and safeguard the country’s international reputation.

There was drama in the Senate on Tuesday following the recent threat by Donald Trump, the President of the United States to take military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.

It started when Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, was addressing reports by an online platform alleging that he had publicly rebuffed Trump over his recent comments and had said Nigerians were ‘not complaining’ about their condition.

The visibly displeased Senate President denied ever making such statements, describing them as ‘false and malicious.’

He condemned the publication, saying it was an attempt to create diplomatic tension and discredit the National Assembly.

‘The fake report claimed I said Nigerians are not complaining that we like the way we are living. That is completely false. I have petitioned the police and the DSS,’ he said.

Akpabio said, ‘Somebody will sit in the comfort of his room and fabricate a report, attaching fake pictures from 2023 when I visited Port Harcourt with senators for a completely different event, and then claim that the Senate President replied President Trump.

‘Who am I to answer Trump?’ Akpabio asked jokingly.

The issue, however, sparked heated reactions on the floor of the Senate as Akpabio, and his deputy, Barau Jibrin, openly differed on how the Nigerian legislature should respond.

While Akpabio dismissed reports that he had already reacted to Trump’s comments, declaring, ‘Who am I to answer Trump?’, Barau quickly interjected, insisting that he was not afraid of the American leader.

‘I’m not scared of Trump. I will say my mind. I’m a Nigerian. Nigeria is a sovereign nation,’ Barau said passionately.

The Deputy Senate President added, ‘I’m a parliamentarian, the Deputy Senate President, I can speak. Don’t be scared of Trump. You can say your mind about Trump. We are a sovereign nation.’

The exchange, which briefly lightened the mood in the chamber, underscored a divide in tone between both presiding officers on how Nigeria’s parliament should handle the diplomatic row.

‘It is the Presidency that will respond to President Trump, not the Senate President. But who is that person that would ascribe a comment to me when I was never contacted?’

Akpabio urged security agencies to investigate and prosecute those behind the viral story, describing it as an effort to ’cause friction and bring the Nigerian Senate into disrepute.’

‘I believe the Cybercrimes Unit of the police, the DSS, and others should find that character out. This is meant to sow division. Social media should not be allowed to break Nigeria,’ he added.

The Senate President, however, noted that the Red chamber would take an official position on Trump’s remarks once the federal government had clarified its stance.

He said, ‘When the executive responds, we will take a position as a Senate. Until then, no one should speak for this institution.’

Over the weekend, Trump declared via social-media that Nigeria faces ‘an existential threat’ to its Christian population and warned that the U.S. may deploy troops or conduct air-strikes if the Nigerian government fails to halt the killings.

He instructed the Pentagon to prepare for possible action and threatened to cut all U.S. aid to Nigeria.

In tandem, the U.S. re-added Nigeria to its ‘Country of Particular Concern’ list for religious freedom violations.

The Nigerian government rejected the designation and the characterisation of persecuting Christians, insisting that Nigeria protects religious freedom for all.

Eagle Badger Data Analytics Limited (EBDA) has reaffirmed the accuracy of its second quarter (Q2) 2025 Stability Index following recent developments in Mali and Nigeria, which align closely with the early warning signals highlighted in the company’s latest report.

The Eagle Badger Stability Index (EBSI), released in July 2025, had placed Mali, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso in the red zone, indicating heightened instability risks driven by insecurity, political volatility, and economic fragility. In the weeks since, events in these countries have underscored the predictive power of the tool.

In Mali, the escalation of jihadist activity and the ongoing fuel blockade reflect the Index’s early warnings on internal displacement and governance collapse as indicators of deep systemic instability.

In Nigeria, the recent reports of an alleged coup attempt and rising diplomatic tension with the United States mirror the Index’s assessment of lingering political fragility despite modest improvements in terrorism reduction and economic recovery.

Burkina Faso continues to face significant security and economic shocks, consistent with its sustained low ranking.

‘These events are unfortunate but not surprising,’ said Sharon Orisakwe, chief executive officer of Eagle Badger Data Analytics.

‘Our data models flagged these countries as highly vulnerable to political and social

shocks. The developments in recent weeks confirm that the EBSI is not just a retrospective measure – it is a forward-looking risk detection tool for the region.’

A data-driven early warning system

The Eagle Badger Stability Index combines over 15 indicators, from internal displacement and terrorism data to corruption perception and democratic continuity, to assess and forecast the stability of ECOWAS countries.

The Q2 2025 report identified a 91 percent probability correlation between sharp increases in internally displaced persons (IDPs) and subsequent episodes of instability within three to six months, a pattern now visibly unfolding in Mali’s humanitarian crisis and Nigeria’s rising political anxiety.

Call to action for red-zone countries

Eagle Badger is calling on Mali, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and other red-zone states to take decisive steps in addressing the root causes of instability, from governance reforms and inclusive dialogue to economic diversification and social resilience.

‘The data gives these governments an opportunity to act before the situation deepens,’ Orisakwe emphasised.

‘Ignoring the signals only magnifies the eventual cost of crisis.’

Learning from the green zone

The EBSI identifies Cape Verde, Benin, Togo, Senegal, and Ghana as the region’s five most stable countries, each demonstrating consistent governance, moderate inflation, low terrorism rates, and environmental preparedness.

EBDA encourages other ECOWAS members to emulate these models of resilience, focusing on democratic continuity, institutional integrity, and strong economic fundamentals.

‘These nations show that stability is achievable through discipline, transparency, and regional cooperation,’ Orisakwe added.

‘Their progress offers a blueprint for sustainable governance across West Africa.’

The Cross River State Government has commenced a comprehensive digital literacy and capacity-building program designed to transform its civil service into a fully paperless, technology-driven workforce by the end of next year.

The initiative, known as the Civil Service Technology Empowerment for Capacity and High Performance (CIVTECH) programme, was officially flagged off by the Head of Service of Cross River State, Orok Okon, Esq., at Prof. Eyo Ita House in Calabar.

According to the official schedule, the training which began with Cohort 1 comprising Directors and Deputy Directors of Administration, will run from November 4 to 6, 2025. Cohort 2, made up of Assistant Directors, Chiefs, and Principal Officers, will follow from November 11 to 13, while Cohort 3, featuring officers on Grade Levels 8-10, will hold from November 18 to 20, 2025.

Speaking at the flag-off, the Head of Service explained that the programme was initiated in collaboration with Cross River State CR-MEDA shortly after his assumption of office, in line with the state government’s vision for a modern, efficient public service.

‘This initiative aligns with our goal of achieving a paperless civil service by the end of 2026,’ Okon said. ‘Every cadre of staff across state and local government services will undergo ICT training to ensure full computer literacy and digital proficiency. This is timely and crucial as we transition to e-governance.’

Great Ogban, the Director General of CR-MEDA, said the training reflects Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to civil service reform, one of the key pillars of the People’s First Blueprint.

‘You cannot reform the civil service without technology and education,’ Ogban stated. ‘This training translates the governor’s vision into action. Civil servants are the drivers of government policy, and this program will enhance their efficiency, speed, and output.’

Chairman of CR-MEDA, Esessien Edet, commended the state government for promoting a paradigm shift from analog to digital operations.

‘This programme moves our workforce from non-ICT compliance to digital proficiency,’ he said. ‘It will drastically improve turnaround time, productivity, and service delivery.’

Also speaking, Glory Odu Oji, Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, said the state chose to start with administrators because of their pivotal role in managing data and implementing policies.

‘Once administrators are ICT compliant, the entire system will function more efficiently,’ she explained. ‘Participation is voluntary, but over time, productivity will reflect who embraced the opportunity.’

Participants praised the initiative as forward-thinking and transformative. Icha Mboto, Director of Administration in the Ministry of Human Capital and Entrepreneurship Development, described it as a ‘timely and necessary intervention’ in an increasingly digital world.

‘This training will enhance our ability to manage records and workflows digitally,’ Mboto said. ‘It’s a major step toward modern public administration.’

Dr. Pamela Ekuri, Deputy Director of Planning, Ministry of Industry, also lauded the effort, noting that it would benefit not only today’s civil servants but future generations.

‘The government’s decision to embrace ICT will make our service delivery faster, smarter, and more sustainable,’ she remarked.