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Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women in the country’s mineral sector.

The association also announced major plans for the upcoming Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition scheduled for between November 26 and 28, 2025, in Lagos.

Speaking in Lagos at a send-forth event in honour of Miss Universe Nigeria 2025, Basil Onyinyechi, who will represent the country at the global Miss Universe contest in Thailand, Chairperson of the Women in Mining Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition Planning Committee, Mrs. Adesuwa Dan-Princewill, said the association was not only focused on transforming Nigeria’s mining landscape but also promoting local craftsmanship and value addition to the nation’s rich mineral resources.

She said that this year’s event, which has gained recognition across Africa and is now being held in five countries – including Egypt, Kenya, Zambia, Ghana, and Nigeria – will feature masterclasses, exhibitions, plenary sessions, and a gala night designed to showcase innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development in the industry.

She said that the event will begin with masterclasses from November 26, led by Labi Akapa, a globally acclaimed jeweler who has designed pieces for royalty around the world. The main conference and exhibition will follow on November 27 and 28, with participation expected from over 55 countries.

The highlight of the five-day event will include a Jeweler Fashion Runway, where local jewelers will display their pieces alongside Nigerian couture fashion. The Gala Night on November 28 will also feature a jewelry-making competition with categories in beadwork and metalsmithing, aimed at discovering and mentoring new talents.

Dan-Princewill said the upcoming conference aims to equip many local miners on how to turn rough stones into luxury items that meet international standards.

‘Women in Mining is very passionate about women’s empowerment and youth empowerment. We believe it’s time for Nigerians to take control of our own resources and develop them locally. We don’t want to keep exporting rough minerals for pennies on the dollar,’ Dan-Princewill said.

She added: ‘By the time participants finish our masterclasses, they will know how to identify real gemstones and create world-class jewelry. We are teaching Nigerians how to turn rough stones into luxury items that meet international standards.’

Beyond promoting the technical aspects of mining, Women in Mining is also integrating fashion and cultural expression into its advocacy. As part of that vision, the organisation has thrown its weight behind Miss Universe Nigeria, who will represent the country at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand.

Mrs. Dan-Princewill explained that the queen’s crown is a true symbol of Nigerian talent and pride because it was completely designed and made by Nigerian women working in mining and jewelry design. She said the crown shows how creative and skilled Nigerian women can be when given the chance.

‘The gemstones on her crown were mined by Nigerians, cut by Nigerians, and crafted by one of our young jewelers, Kiki Chiori, in collaboration with Tejiri Incorporated. This shows that we have the talent and capacity to produce luxury items locally,’ Dan-Princewill noted.

‘We are sending her out not just for the pageant, but to tell the world that Nigeria is ready – that we can source responsibly, design beautifully, and compete globally.’

Women in Mining Nigeria currently has active chapters in 28 states across the country and continues to advocate for the inclusion of women in both artisanal and executive roles within the mining sector.

The Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition remain one of the flagship events driving Africa’s conversation on value addition, traceability, and responsible sourcing, key factors in ensuring that the continent benefits more from its mineral wealth.

A former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Isa Ayo Salami yesterday said ex-President Goodluck Jonathan is not eligible to contest the 2027 Presidential Election.

He said Jonathan cannot be the nation’s President beyond the constitutional limit of two terms of eight years.

He said if elected President, Jonathan would exceed the constitutional requirement for the office.

Salami warned that Jonathan stands the risk of being nullified by the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court if he defies the 1999 Constitution(As Amended).

He said Jonathan’s 2027 presidential ambition is dead on arrival by virtue of Sub-section (3) of Section 137 of the 1999 Constitution as altered by the Fourth Alteration Act, No 16 of 2018.

He said those encouraging Jonathan should heed the warning caveat emptor usually directed to land speculators.

Salami bared his mind in an opinion on Jonathan’s bid for the Presidency in 2027.

He said: ‘ It is painstakingly and dispassionately demonstrated abundantly to all and sundry that ambition of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to contest for the office of the president for the second term in the 2027 general election is effectively and undoubtedly shot down by Sub-section (3) of Section 137 of the 1999 Constitution as altered by the Fourth Alteration Act, No 16 of 2018 which, to my mind is unassailable.

‘My advice to the political class angling up in his support to heed the warning, caveat emptor usually directed to land speculators to be aware.

‘In an event of his winning the election he will be conveniently removed by the Court of Appeal in an election petition to that court which removal will be undoubtedly affirmed by the Supreme Court on the ground that his total tenure would have exceeded the eight years maximum tenure.’

Salami said any alteration or amendment to the constitution has retroactive effect unlike criminal act.

He said it is trite that an amendment to an enactment relates back to the date the principal enactment (legislation it is seeking to amend) came into force.

He added: ‘It seems to me, however, that the interpretation of the amendment is not strictly in contention.

‘What is in issue, to my mind, is the eligibility of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to seek the office of the president in the 2027 general election, being a person who exhausted the remainder of the term for which Umoru Musa Yar’Adua was elected president.

‘ It is his case that the amendment to the Constitution cannot take a retroactive effect.This argument has probably lost sight of two points of view.

‘Firstly, that it is a Constitutional and not a statutory provision that is in contention. Secondly, thepurported right he seeks to protect is civil and not criminal.

‘It is convenient to quickly dispose of the second point of view which I consider to be a civil right. The Constitution protects criminal right against retroactive legislation. Sub-section 8 of section 36 of the Constitution provides thus – 36-(8) No person shall be held to be guilty of a criminal offence on account of any act or omission that did not, at the time it took place, constitute such an offence and no penalty shall be imposed for any criminal offence heavier than the penalty in force at the time the offence was committed.

‘The Constitution frowns at or forbids retroactive enactment with regards to criminal act, omission and penalties and not civil or constitutional infractions.

‘Moreover, it is trite that an amendment to an enactment relates back to the date the principal enactment (legislation it is seeking to amend) came into force. In other words, the date for the commencement of Fourth Alteration Act, No 16 of 2018 is the date the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria itself, came into force. See sub-section (1) of section 4 of the Interpretation Act which states thus –

4 (1) A reference in an enactment to another enactment shall, if the other enactment has been amended, be construed as a reference to the other enactment as amended.

‘Consequently, the hue and cry that there has been a retroactive legislation is most unjustifiable.

‘The principles governing interpretation of constitutional and statutory provisions are not usually on all fours.

‘ The reason being that statutes are acts of the legislature while a Constitution; the ground norms are made by a higher body. In other words statutes in Nigeria are promulgated by the National Assembly for the Federation and State Houses of Assembly for the respective States.

‘The Constitution is usually made by a supreme body such as the National Assembly in conjunction with sub national assemblies. Plebiscites are, at times, required. It is inconceivable, therefore, to abrogate constitutional provision on account of unconstitutionality or as retroactively made or otherwise.’

SloweGanzi International has launched ÀSÉ10: A Reign of Peace, Culture and Unity, a celebration of Yoruba heritage, global reconnection, and 10 years of leadership of Arolé Odùduwà, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojájá II, the 51st Ooni of Ife.

Holding from November 30 to December 7, this inaugural marks a defining moment for Yoruba culture. It will unite Yoruba in diaspora in a celebration of identity, creativity, and shared heritage.

The organisers said ÀSÉ10 is a platform to showcase the depth of Yoruba heritage through art, music, scholarship, spirituality, and enterprise. It also seeks to inspire reconnection among the Yoruba diaspora while strengthening Pan-African unity through culture and creativity.

The festival coincides with the 10th coronation of Ooni, whose reign has been marked by peace, youth empowerment, and cultural pride.

Spanning Lagos to Ile-Ife, ÀSÉ10 will feature cultural exhibitions, art installations, film premieres, academic forums, music performances, fashion showcases, culinary festivals, and sacred ceremonies. A royal banquet and fireworks display will crown the week’s activities, offering guests an experience of Yoruba artistry and hospitality.

In addition, the festival will unveil the Legacy Project – Yoruba History and Arts Museum, a visionary cultural institution to be established in Ile-Ife. The project aims to preserve and promote Yoruba art, history, and philosophy for generations to come.

A representative of SloweGanzi International described ÀSÉ10 as a call to reconnect, rediscover, and reassert the power of Yoruba heritage as a global force for unity and peace.’

Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, said ‘over these 10 years, His Majesty has reimagined traditional leadership – not as an artifact of the past, but as a living, evolving anchor for culture, unity, and development.’

One hundred and forty four girls in Ajegunle, Lagos, have received hygiene kits and mentorship from The Becoming Her Women Empowerment Initiative in celebration of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child. Tagged, a hygiene outreach and mentorship drive, it is to promote menstrual education, confidence, and leadership among young girls.

Held this month at Dreamstead School, Ajegunle (Ajeromi Local Government) in Lagos, the event, powered by The Becoming Her Teens programme, was originally planned for 100 beneficiaries but exceeded expectations, distributing 144 hygiene kits (100 in the school and 44 to girls in the community). Each kit contained sanitary pads, shaving sticks, roll-on, Vaseline, body spray, sponge, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrush.

‘Every girl deserves to feel clean, confident, and capable, no matter where she comes from,’ said Olufunmi Adisa, founder and Programme director.

The event featured interactive and educational sessions, led by members of the initiative’s core team. Ijeoma Nwoye facilitated discussions on menstrual hygiene and self-care, while Azeezat Ibrahim, Programme Strategy/Finance lead, guided the girls on the proper use of sanitary kits.

She explained the year’s global theme, reminding them that womanhood is power, not shame. Yvonne Idika, Programme Strategy/Counselling and Support, also spoke about leadership and body integrity; while Funmi Odedina, Programme Strategy and Partnership/Fundraising lead, delivered an inspiring talk on education as the key to achieving one’s potential.

A virtual follow-up session connected more girls from across Lagos, featuring Juliet Adesida (Counselling and Support) speaking on self-confidence and healthy choices, while Yvonne Idika led another engaging conversation on menstrual education and empowerment.

Also present were Choice Dappa (Admin and Operations/Community Coordination), Motunrayo Bamgbola (Partnership and Fundraising), and Maryann Adewole (Special Project Coordinator), with other members of the initiative, whose presence underscored the organisation’s team spirit and commitment to empowering girls.

‘Our goal is not just to give pads, but to give perspective, to help girls see beyond today and know their dreams are valid,’ said Adisa.

Frontline gospel singers, Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Bidemi Olaoba, Efe Nathan, Simisola Agbebi, and Lady Prudence are billed to perform at the 16th edition of Night of Mercy Gospel Concert at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos State or 16th Edition, Promises Night of Worship and Divine Intervention.

Speaking during a media briefing held on Monday at the Solution Arena, Onipanu , Lagos, the brains behind the event, Dr. Amos Fenwa, Senior Pastor, Holyghost Christian Centre, Lagos, said the concert is an interdenominational mega concert for soul winning purpose.

‘The annual Night of Mercy Gospel Concert is set to return to the Stadium in Lagos on Friday, November 14, 2025, for a powerful night of worship, prayer, and evangelism. The interdenominational event will be held from 9:00 p.m. till dawn at the 10,000-capacity Mobolaji Johnson Arena, also known as Onikan Stadium.

‘Organized for the 16th consecutive year, the concert series was founded with a divine mandate to bring the gospel beyond the church walls and share the love of Christ with unbelievers and those in need of solace. The first Night of Mercy was held 16 years ago at the National Stadium in Surulere. In 2020 because the pandemic, we restricted the hosting to our church premises up till last year but now we are back to a stadium.”

‘In view of the current global and national turmoil including economic challenges, security concerns, and mass unemployment, the Night of Mercy initiative provides spiritual succor by offering an opportunity for salvation and life transformation through the gospel.

‘We trust God to enable us to win a thousand souls at the Night of Mercy Programme this year whose lives will begin to change in a positive direction,’ said Fenwa. ‘When this happens, over time, the nation will have less trouble and enjoy more peace.’

”The Night of Mercy provides a platform to praise and worship God, a practice believed to bring divine intervention. This year’s event features a powerful lineup of gospel ministers, including Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Bidemi Olaoba, Efe Nathan, Simisola Agbebi, and Lady Prudence. As thousands gather to worship, attendees can expect to experience diverse miracles and divine interventions in their lives.

‘The event will also include special prayers for Nigeria and its leaders. The night’s driving force remains the twin goals of worship and soul-winning, which the organizers describe as ‘the greatest actions that touch the heart of God.’

The clergyman noted that past editions of the concert were witnessed by high profile guests, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, adding that invitations have also been extended to several state governors for this year’s event.

‘I am using this opportunity to invite the body of Christ and others outside the church to come for a life-touching night on Friday, November 14, 2025, and I want to assure you that full security arrangements have been put in place,’ Fenwa added.

The trouble with Africa is simply and squarely a challenge of leadership. Africa has fantastic climate and abundant natural resources. The problem is the inability of her leaders to harness these resources for speedy development. Leadership is indispensable to any association of human beings desirous of achieving whatever goals it sets for itself. When such an association is engaged in a difficult undertaking or is in pursuit of a risky objective such as nation-building, the need for competent leadership becomes particularly urgent. It is like having the captain who takes control over those ‘who go down to the sea in ships’ or up into the clouds in aircraft.

Leadership is a sacred trust. No one gets into it lightly or unadvisedly, because it demands qualities of mind and discipline of the body. Anybody who offers himself or herself or is offered to the society for leadership should be aware of the unusually high demand of the role and should, if in any doubt whatsoever, firmly refuse the prompting.

I know someone who refuses every offer of leadership. His argument is simply that he does not have what it takes to be a leader.

It is difficult to adequately address the qualities of a leader. But there are certain concrete skills that set real leaders apart: The ability to influence others and guide a team to success; the ability to see the bigger picture of the future and device a winning strategy, to understand the strengths and weaknesses and use the knowledge to negotiate and navigate challenges.

The problem posed by leadership is that of selection. Political philosophers from Socrates to the present time have wrestled with it. Every human society including our contemporary ones has battled with it.

In traditional monarchical systems such as we would have today dismissed as anachronistic, there were elite groups called the kingmakers whose business was to keep an eye on all the eligible princes. They were to choose the best when the time came. These kingmakers were specially qualified by tradition and their knowledge of the history of the kingdom. Those of us who often doubt that we could learn anything from traditional system and usage could compare the scrupulousness of the kingmakers with the lack of it in our elections.

Nigeria is a child, gifted, enormously talented, prodigiously endowed and developing. Nigerians have their work cut out for them to help the child navigate the path of careful creative development. Since the colonial time, Nigeria has had the challenge of leadership. There is a proverb ‘If you cannot tell where the rain began to beat you, you will not know where the sun dried your body.’ The basic element of this challenge is the absence of intellectual rigour in the political thought of our founding fathers – a tendency towards materialistic woolliness. According to Chinua Achebe in his book the Trouble with Nigeria, ‘The poverty of the political thought was exhibited in the biographies of Dr Nnamdi Azikwe and Chief Obafemi Awolowo. In contrast to the expressions of ideology found in more informal works of Kwame Nkrumah and Ju;ius Nyerere.’

For instance, in the solemn vow made by Azikwe in 1937, he pledged that henceforth I shall utilise my earned income to secure my enjoyment of high standard of living and give a helping hand to the needy. Awolowo was even more forthright about his ambition: ‘I am going to make myself formidable intellectually and morally invulnerable, and make all the money that is possible for a man of my brains and brawn to make in Nigeria’.

Thoughts as these are likely to produce aggressive billionaires than selfless leaders. An absence of objectivity and intellectual rigour at the crucial moment of a nation’s formation is more than academic matter. It inclines the young state to disorderly growth. Take note those were not the musing in the evening of their lives but the youthful credo launched in their political career. If Nigerians were a more discerning people, they should never have trusted them with their lives.

But a worse tragedy is that a crop of new generation in Nigerian politics whose mission should have been to inaugurate a new philosophy and practice of politics devoid of narrowness and opportunism, capable of preparing the country for the challenges of development chose to become revivalists of a bankrupt political manoeuvring, tribal expediency and consummate selfishness. And they are still fostering this diseased tradition among their followers.

In a democracy, persuasion is the central mechanism for gaining and maintaining political power. However, in Nigerian context, while persuasion is officially part of the process, it is frequently undermined by various anti-democratic practices such as exploitation of ethnic and religious divisions. Instead of focusing on issues, politicians frequently rely on manipulative and sometimes vile rhetoric to shape public opinion and mobilise support. This is often tied to identity politics where appeals to ethnicity, religion and regionalism can sway voters more than policy proposals.

The current gale of defection has shown that politicians do not bother about the consent of the people who voted for them before taking certain decisions. According to some governors, they defected to partner with the central government and to attract benefits to the states. Modern federalism has moved from dual to corporative federalism where national and state governments share power and work together to address common problems. Some critics have described the defections as driven entirely by survival strategies, opportunism and selfishness. The action has damaging consequences on our political culture. It is up to the succeeding generation to change the trajectory and develop a new political culture based on civilised political values.

According to Karl Marx, ‘The problem of the world is not to explain it but to solve it ‘.

Nigerians are not more gullible than other people. But in the specific matter of elections they have performed below their potentials. The electorate has deprived themselves of their powers over the politicians by falling prey to instigated divisions of ethnicity, religion, poverty complex et cetera. In effect, the Nigerian voter is effectively disenfranchised by these manipulative divisions.

But the successful politicians will link up with their tribal and religious enemies once they get into the legislature, to promote measures that are of common interest to their new elite class, such as increase in emolument, purchase of luxury cars and other benefits.

The cliché that the people get the leaders they deserve is a useful exaggeration- useful because it reminds the general populace of the need for vigilance in selecting their leaders and for keeping them under constant surveillance. The voter must ask the politicians important question such as why do you want my vote and must treat the easy answer of the politicians with appropriate scepticism.

The educated Nigerians have not fared better. They have for too long stood on the side-lines and many of them have adopted the attitude of if you cannot beat them you join them. Their actions and cynical actions are serious betrayal of their education, historic mission and succeeding generation, who will have no future unless they save it for them. To be educated is after all, to develop the questioning habit and to be sceptical to easy promises and use past experience creatively. The ordinary man needs to be guided by the intellectual class to vote wisely. They must go back to work to produce that salt of commitment and excellence which the people rely on them to drop into the boiling soup pot of leadership.

India has confirmed its strong economic partnership with Nigeria, with investment commitments estimated at about $60 billion.

This investment commitment India said, reflects decades of cooperation and renewed confidence in the country’s economic prospects.

Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, made this known during a meeting with Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, in Abuja yesterday.

Singh said India’s growing investment presence in Nigeria spans several sectors including power, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. According to him, Indian companies continue to deliver critical projects that support Nigeria’s development goals.

He noted that ‘India holds Mr. Edun, in very high regard.’ He commended the minister’s leadership and Nigeria’s reform efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and fostering private-sector growth.

The envoy also spoke of India’s substantial footprint in Nigeria’s power sector, pointing to ongoing projects executed by Indian firms such as Skipper, which are involved in the construction of power plants, substations, and solar grid installations across the country.

During the meeting, Singh presented a symbolic handcrafted gift to Mr. Edun and conveyed goodwill messages from the Government and the people of India.

Edun, acknowledged India’s long-standing role as one of Nigeria’s most reliable development and investment partners.

He noted that the government is keen to expand collaboration in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, technology transfer, and private-sector participation – areas he said align with Nigeria’s strategic growth agenda.

‘India’s confidence in Nigeria’s economy is a reflection of our reform-driven approach and commitment to sustainable development,’ Edun said. ‘We look forward to deepening our economic cooperation in ways that deliver tangible benefits to both nations.’

Both sides agreed to continue working together to strengthen bilateral ties and promote shared prosperity through investment and innovation.

Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, has called on individuals blackmailing and threatening him to stop the distraction, stating that he will not succumb to any form of intimidation or blackmail of corruption from anyone, advising those sending threats to forward their complaints to appropriate quarters.

In a statement signed by the Corporate Affairs Commission Management, it stated that, ‘the attention of the Corporate Affairs Commission has been drawn to recent acts of intimidation and baseless allegations targeted at the Registrar-General.

The management noted that the threat are baseless, and if the individuals are not satisfied with services provided by the commission they have a right to report to appropriate government agencies.

‘Let it be clearly stated that the RG will not succumb to any form of blackmail, distraction, or pressure in the discharge of his lawful responsibilities. If anyone has credible evidence of corruption or wrongdoing against him, they are advised to forward such petitions to the relevant anti-corruption agencies for proper investigation and prosecution, rather than resorting to falsehood and smear campaigns’.

The Commission remains focused on transparency, reform, and service to Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Cross River State Government has inaugurated a robust consultative process aimed at repositioning the economy for competitiveness, inclusivity, and sustainable growth through the formulation of its first-ever State Trade Policy.

The stakeholder engagement, held on Thursday at Pristine Villa Events Centre, Calabar, marked a decisive step in shaping a coherent trade framework that aligns with both national and continental development aspirations.

Declaring the engagement open, Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Orok Duke, described the initiative as ‘a bold step toward unlocking the full trade potential of Cross River State and positioning it competitively within national, regional and global markets.’

She noted that trade remains a vital lever for prosperity and inclusive growth, underscoring Governor Bassey Otu’s People First economic vision.

‘Trade is the foundation of prosperity,’ Dr. Duke affirmed. ‘Our goal is to strengthen value chains, promote inclusivity, and create jobs by linking our State’s productive sectors-agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, services, and the creative industries, to expanding market opportunities.’

The high-level engagement, jointly organised by the Ministry of Commerce and the State Trade Policy Development Committee, brought together senior government officials, private sector leaders, academia, and development partners. Discussions revolved around the theme:

‘Building an Inclusive and Competitive Trade Policy for Sustainable Growth and Job Creation in Cross River State.’

The session served as a rallying point for developing a trade framework that will anchor the State’s economic diversification agenda.

Delivering the keynote address titled: ‘The role of trade policy in driving state competitiveness and job creation,’ Professor Susana Ohen, Chairman of the Trade Policy Development Committee, emphasized the importance of aligning Cross River’s trade ambitions with key continental and regional frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), and the National Trade Policy (2023-2027).

‘A coherent Trade Policy will serve as an anchor for inclusive development,’ Prof. Ohen stated. ‘It will connect our smallholder farmers, MSMEs, and industrial actors to markets, stimulate private investment, and drive job creation across the value chain.’

Other presentations added intellectual depth to the session. Professor Lionel Effiom of the University of Calabar’s Department of Economics presented an ‘Overview of the State Trade Landscape and Policy Development Process,’ while Mr. Kelly Ayamba, FCA, President of CALCCIMA, delivered insights on ‘Sectoral Perspectives: Trade Opportunities and Challenges.’ Both speakers underscored the urgency of institutionalizing a trade policy that will foster innovation, expand market access, and strengthen industrial linkages across key sectors.

The engagement also featured interactive breakout sessions facilitated by Mr. Kenneth Ittah, Mr. William Itorok, and Dr. Osas Omorogbe, during which participants examined sectoral priorities, challenges, and actionable strategies for trade facilitation. Discussions covered a broad range of areas including agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing and industrialization, tourism, entertainment and cuisine, solid minerals, services, energy, transportation, forestry, and fisheries. The plenary session that followed harmonized the outcomes into a shared roadmap for policy drafting.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Philomena Nyiam, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment to a shared vision of economic transformation. ‘This process is consultative by design,’ she remarked. ‘The Ministry will continue to engage all stakeholders as we move toward drafting, validating, and adopting a Trade Policy that reflects our State’s aspirations for inclusive and sustainable growth.’

Goodwill messages from the Cross River Planning Commission, CALCCIMA, and development partners reaffirmed support for the process, with many describing the initiative as a milestone in creating a trade-enabling environment capable of attracting investment, boosting production, and generating employment.

With this bold start, Cross River State has signaled its readiness to chart a new economic course anchored on competitiveness, partnership and shared prosperity.

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Anele, has approved the appointment of new principal and command officers across various Nigerian Air Force (NAF) units and commands.

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the appointments are strategic moves to enhance operational efficiency, foster synergy, and align with the new NAF leadership’s command philosophy.

He stated that the reshuffle was part of ongoing efforts to optimize command effectiveness, improve decision-making, and enhance mission readiness in line with the evolving security environment.

Those affected by the new development are: Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Abubakar Abdullahi appointed as Chief of Policy and Plans, while AVM Adeniran Ademuwagun assumes duty as Commandant, Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna.

Additionally, AVM Ibitayo Ajiboye has been named Group Managing Director, Nigerian Air Force Investment Limited (NAFIL) Group of Companies, while AVM Precious Amadi takes over as Chief of Operations, and AVM Nnamdi Ananaba becomes Chief of Air Intelligence.

Other appointees are: AVM Ebimobo Ebiowe who is appointed Superintendent of Standards and Evaluation, AVM Ahmed Dari appointed as Chief of Training, and AVM Mohammed Ibrahim now heads the Transformation and Innovation Branch.

According to the statement, in the logistics and engineering domains, AVM Olufemi Ogunsina is appointed Chief of Aircraft Engineering, AVM Michael Onyebashi assumed command as Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Mobility Command, while AVM David Pwajok is now Chief of Communication and Information Systems, and AVM John Ukeh takes charge as Air Provost Marshal.

In the NAF’s administrative and welfare structures, the NAF’s boss appointed AVM Simon Peter as Managing Director, NAFIL Housing and Construction Company, AVM Chidiebere Obiabaka became Air Secretary, AVM Anthony Martins now serves as Chief of Administration, AVM Abubakar Sule takes over as AOC, Logistics Command, and AVM Abdulrasheed Kotun was appointed the Managing Director, NAF Farms, AVM Edward Gabkwet is the new Chief of Civil-Military Relations, and AVM Osichinaka Ubadike has been named Deputy Commandant, AFIT.

Other senior officers redeployed to strategic position include AVMs Ahmed Bakari, Albert Bot, Idi Sani, Muhammed Suleiman, Jibrin Usman, and Japheht Ekwuribe, who have been redeployed to various defence and inter-service establishments in line with ongoing efforts to strengthen joint operations and national defence coordination.