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The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has called on the federal government to stop favouring doctors ahead all other health professionals, but ensure fairness and a level playing ground for all professionals in the nation’s health sector.

The association accused government for displaying apathy and favouritism in the administration of the nations health sector, warning hat one-sided policies and preferential treatment have continued to breed disunity and inefficiency in the delivery of quality healthcare.

Ayuba Ibrahim, the PSN President said this during the pre-conference press briefing on Tuesday in Lagos, ahead of the Society’s 98th Annual National Conference (DABO 2025). He urged government to end all forms of favouritism in the health sector and to treat every professional group with equal respect and opportunity.

‘There has been too much bias in the management of our health system, and it is time to correct this. Pharmacy and other professions within the health sector deserve the same recognition, consideration, and opportunities to serve. The time has come to eliminate favoritism and bias in the sector’, he said.

‘We need a health system that rewards competence, not connections. Pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, and their welfare must reflect that reality’, he added.

The president further decried that the profession is losing talent rapidly as current data shows that over 8,200 pharmacists have failed to renew their licenses in the past five years, many of them having migrated abroad citing institutional apathy and lopsidedness in the sector, especially regarding remuneration and policy implementation. He specifically condemned the proposed salary relativity between the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), describing the move as unjust and capable of widening existing divides.

He warned that the proposal, if allowed, will further deepen the inequality that already exists in the system.

‘The PSN will resist any attempt to trample on the rights of pharmacists and other health workers who play vital roles in sustaining patient care and national health outcomes. We insist that this cannot stand. otherwise, it becomes meaningless to study any other health course apart from Medicine. The existing CBA with the Federal Government is clear: our wages must be parity-based, not relativity-based. The PSN and JOHESU will resist any attempt to entrench such an immoral and unlawful policy’ he said. He also faulted what he described as government’s selective attention in healthcare development, stressing that pharmacists must be carried along in national policy planning and implementation if Nigeria is to build a sustainable and efficient healthcare system.

He further criticised the recurring establishment of Universities of Medicine/Medical Sciences, saying the concept is discriminatory and unconstitutional, as it excludes other vital health disciplines.

‘The idea of naming new institutions Universities of Medicine is not only misleading but also unconstitutional. It sends the wrong message that medicine is superior to other health professions, which is not true. Every discipline in the health sector is essential to quality healthcare delivery’, he stressed.

This announcement is scoming a aweek after the party had stated that it had disqualified two of the aspirants; Kayode Ojo and Abimbola Olawunmi for the election

In a statement signed by Felix Morka, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, and dated October 14, 2025, the APC said the decision followed the voluntary withdrawal of one of the two cleared aspirants, Atinuke Omolayo, from the race.

According to the statement, Omolayo in a letter to the party conveyed her decision to withdraw from the contest and endorsed the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, as the consensus candidate.

‘The change from the earlier indicated direct primary to consensus mode of primary was necessitated by the voluntary withdrawal of one of the two cleared aspirants, Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo,’ the statement read.

‘In a letter to the Party, Mrs Omolayo conveyed her decision to withdraw from the contest and endorse His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as a consensus candidate, and expressed her support for any arrangement adopted by the Party in nominating its flag bearer in accordance with the Electoral Act, 2022 and the Party’s Constitution.’

Morka explained that the party had duly informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its decision through a letter dated October 13, 2025, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

‘Having satisfied the requirements stipulated under Sections 84(9) and (11) of the Electoral Act 2022, for the consensus mode of primary election, the Party has approved the timetable of activities for the nomination congress,’ he said. The approved timetable, according to the APC, is as follows: Delegate Congress – Saturday, 25th October 2025; Delegate Congress Appeal – Sunday, 26th October 2025; Special Nomination Congress to Ratify the Consensus Candidate – Monday, 27th October 2025.

The party commended Omolayo for her ‘spirit of sportsmanship’ and ‘commitment to party unity and progress,’ describing her action as one that reflects maturity and loyalty to the APC’s ideals. ‘The Party commends Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo for her spirit of sportsmanship, and commitment to party unity and progress,’ the statement added.

Morka further called on party leaders, members, and stakeholders in Ekiti State to remain united and focused ahead of the June 2026 governorship election.

‘We urge all leaders, members and stakeholders of our great Party in Ekiti State to stand united and work assiduously for the Party’s victory in the June 2026 Governorship Election,’ he said.

The consensus arrangement now positions Governor Biodun Oyebanji as the APC’s sole candidate for the 2026 Ekiti governorship race, pending formal ratification at the nomination congress later this month.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday flagged off the reconstruction of the Warri-Sapele-Benin Dual Carriageway in Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Area of the state, to end the hardship suffered by commuters and transporters on the route due to the deplorable condition.

The section we are flagging off covers a dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement, expanded shoulders, and extensive storm water drainage systems, all designed to provide durability and ensure the safety of road users, said the governor while performing the ground-breaking of the project. The 10km project stretches five kilometres on each side and features an 8.8-meter-wide carriageway on both lanes, far beyond the standard 7.3 metres and is expected to be completed within 12 months, he said.

‘The Warri-Sapele-Benin Road is a critical national infrastructure connecting major cities across the South-South and providing access to Edo and other parts of the federation.

‘Although the road is a federal route, the users are Deltans and Nigerians, and their safety and comfort are what matter most to us,’ adding that the reconstruction would enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and spur economic growth.

He noted that beyond the economic benefits, the project will also strengthen security. ‘Criminals often exploit bad roads to commit crimes. Once completed, this highway will make movement safer and improve the response of security agencies, he said. He declared the project a symbol of renewed collaboration between the Federal and State Governments for the benefit of Nigerians.

Rueben Izeze, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads) said the project is the brainchild of Gov Oborevwori, who is determined to transform the infrastructural landscape of the state.

Thomas Feng, an engineer and the General Manager of Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), thanked Governor Oborevwori for the confidence reposed in the firm, promising to deliver the project in record time and to the highest standards.

Keystone Bank Ltd. has handed over newly renovated and equipped classroom blocks, an administrative building, a school hall, and a science laboratory to St. Jude Secondary School in Ihiala, Anambra State, underscoring its growing role in supporting educational development across Nigeria.

The handover ceremony, held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, was attended by Anambra State Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, senior state officials, and top executives of the lender. The project, part of Keystone’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, aims to provide an improved learning environment for students and teachers in underserved communities.

‘Education is not just about buildings or infrastructure; it is about creating an environment where dreams can grow and young people can realise their full potential,’ said Ada Chukwudozie, chair of Keystone Bank. ‘This project is a testament to our belief that the private sector has a vital role to play in nation-building.’

Chukwudozie added that the bank would continue to support transformative projects across the country, aligning with national goals on human capital development and inclusive growth.

Hassan Imam, managing director and chief executive officer of the bank, described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future. ‘Education stands as the very foundation of a thriving society,’ Imam said. ‘At Keystone Bank, we believe that investing in education is one of the most powerful ways to contribute to national progress.’

Soludo commended the bank for what he called a ‘model partnership between government and the private sector.’ He said the intervention complements his administration’s priority focus on education and health as the twin pillars of sustainable development.

‘I sincerely appreciate Keystone Bank for this great feat,’ Soludo said. ‘Without education, no nation can make meaningful progress. Every classroom we build, every child we empower, and every teacher we support brings us one step closer to the prosperous and enlightened Anambra of our dreams.’

Soludo, a former central bank governor, has placed emphasis on public-private collaboration to improve infrastructure and human capital across Anambra. His government has launched several education and digital skills programmes in partnership with financial institutions and tech firms.

Keystone Bank, one of Nigeria’s mid-tier lenders, has expanded its CSR initiatives in recent years to include education, health, and environmental sustainability. The St. Jude Secondary School project adds to a series of community-focused interventions the bank has implemented nationwide, from digital literacy projects to women’s empowerment schemes.

The renovated facilities include fully furnished classrooms, a multipurpose hall, a modern administrative office, and a refurbished science laboratory. The bank also provided desks, laboratory equipment, and learning materials.

‘Education equips the next generation of leaders to shape the future,’ Imam said. ‘We are proud to partner with the Anambra State Government in nurturing the next generation.’

Among those present at the event were the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Ngozi Chuma Udeh; the commissioner for Industry, Christian Udechukwu; and the Oluoha and clan Head of Ihiala, HRH Thomas Ikenna Amuta Obidiegwu.

The project reflects a broader trend of Nigerian corporates taking active roles in supporting state-led educational reforms amid budget constraints and infrastructural deficits. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, education spending in Nigeria remains below 10% of total public expenditure, leaving gaps that the private sector has increasingly helped to fill through CSR and impact-driven initiatives.

For Keystone Bank, such projects are not just philanthropy but strategic investments in social stability and long-term economic growth. ‘The future of Nigeria is in the hands of these young people,’ Imam said. ‘With the right education and guidance, they will achieve great things.’

Morocco, Africa’s fifth-largest economy, has outpaced Nigeria in the production and exports of saffron, the highly sought-after spice, edging Africa’s most populous nation out of a multi-billion-dollar market.

Experts believe that cultivating saffron could unlock a new era for Nigeria’s agriculture, given its high market value, proven health benefits, and far-reaching economic potential.

Often called ‘red gold,’ saffron is the world’s most expensive spice, selling for between $3,500 and $5,000 per kilogram at the global market. Morocco produces an estimated 6-7 tons annually, worth between $24.5 million and $35 million according to recent reports by Tridge.

In contrast, Nigeria,with similar climatic conditions that could support saffron cultivation, remains absent from this $2 billion global market. Experts blame low awareness, poor local demand, and a shortage of technical skills for Nigeria’s failure to commercialize the crop.

‘Spices like saffron could generate millions of dollars for Nigeria, but without institutional support, technical skills and awareness, farmers lose interest in cultivating it,’ stated Agbaji Chinedu, director of administration at the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, during a phone conversation with this reporter.

BusinessDay research confirms that saffron can thrive in Nigerian soils, yet cultivation is limited. A handful of farmers in Kaduna and Plateau states are only beginning to experiment with the crop.

‘Saffron is widely celebrated across Europe, Asia, and North Africa for its culinary, medical, and cosmetic uses,’noted Abubakar Gani, an agribusiness analyst at Morganable.

‘However, in Nigeria, its name barely escapes the shelves of imported goods,’ he added.

Samuel Deshi, chief executive officer of Ritdung Integrated Farms in Plateau State, confirmed to BusinessDay that saffron cultivation is currently taking place on a very limited scale.

‘We are currently experimenting with the crop using imported seedlings from Spain,’ he said.

Although it is not yet harvest season, Deshi noted that the plants are showing promising signs.

Experts argue that Nigeria’s overreliance on oil has left vast agricultural opportunities untapped. With demand from the food, beauty, and pharmaceutical industries rising, saffron could help diversify Nigeria’s economy and create new income streams for farmers.

‘Cultivating saffron is pure wealth. Knowledge and skills are the only barriers,’ said Christian Anyaoha of the National Horticultural Research Institute, Ibadan.

For now, Morocco leads the way, turning a niche spice into hard currency. Nigeria, despite its vast agricultural land and potential, is watching from the sidelines, missing out on a golden opportunity.

Global market

The global saffron market is valued at $1.42 billion in 2025 and is projected to expand at a 6.4 percent CAGR, reaching $2 billion by 2030, according to Mordor Intelligence.

Iran dominates saffron production, accounting for 90 percent of global supply, with revenues of $351 million reported in 2018, World Bank data shows. India follows with 4.5 percent, while Morocco contributes 2 percent, cementing its position as Africa’s saffron leader.

Morocco produces around 6 tons annually, making it the fourth-largest producer globally as of 2020, after Iran, India and Greece. Cultivation is concentrated in just two southeastern provinces-Taliouine and Taroudant-yet the country earns recognition as the top saffron grower in Africa.

With rising demand from the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, saffron’s global market growth underscores the crop’s lucrative potential. For Nigeria, which shares similar climate conditions but lag behind in commercial cultivation, this is an opportunity that should not be overlooked, experts say.

Economics of ‘red gold’

Saffron is a perennial crop derived from the Crocus sativus flower, and it is propagated through its corms. After the first harvest, each parent corm produces two to three daughter corms, ensuring continuous regeneration of the crop.

Once established, saffron can be harvested on the same farm for up to 6.5 years, making it a long-term investment for farmers.

To cultivate one hectare, about three tons of corms are required. Yields typically range from 3.5 to 4 kilograms per hectare per season, depending on farm practices and growing conditions. The crop thrives in temperate, elevated regions with well-drained clay soils. In Nigeria, experts identify areas such as Plateau, Kaduna, Cross River, and the Mambila Plateau in Taraba State as suitable environments for saffron farming.

With proper knowledge and support, these regions hold significant potential for Nigeria to join the global saffron market, where the spice is valued as the world’s most expensive cash crop.

Health benefits of saffron

Saffron contains crocin and safranal which are known for their anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-depressant properties.

It is widely used in tea, beverages, culinary dishes, and pharmaceuticals, with growing demand in the wellness and nutraceutical markets.

‘It would be interesting to know that one of the major solutions to cancer could just be hidden in nature,’ noted an environmental analyst, highlighting saffron’s emerging role in global health research.

As interest in natural remedies and functional foods expands, saffron continues to attract attention not only for its flavor and color but also for its therapeutic promise.

Challenges and way forward

Saffron may be the world’s most expensive spice, but experts warn that its labor intensive nature, climate risks, skill gaps and crop theft remain major barriers to its successful cultivation in Nigeria.

The crop is highly labor-demanding. To harvest one kilogram of saffron requires around 150,000 flowers, and managing a single hectare demands about 54 workers, each contributing more than 50 hours of labor.

‘Saffron is a high-value crop, which makes it vulnerable to theft. The simplest safeguard is fencing,’ explained Stan Edom, an agricultural value-chain expert and chief executive officer of Globexia.

Beyond labor and security, the biggest hurdle is awareness. Many Nigerian farmers assume saffron can only thrive in traditional growing regions such as Iran and India.

‘There is a widespread lack of awareness about saffron’s adaptability to Nigeria’s agro-climatic conditions,’ said Gani (earlier quoted).Limited technical knowledge and almost no institutional support further discourage farmers,’ he added

Gani stressed that training and providing farmers with quality inputs could transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector, reduce rural poverty, and boost foreign-exchange earnings.

Awareness of saffron’s health benefits could also stimulate local demand, analysts say.

‘Promoting saffron’s anti-cancer and wellness properties would attract new farmers, grow rural income, and expand domestic consumption,’ noted Chinedu(earlier quoted).

Experts further call on research institutes and universities to conduct ongoing studies on soil and climate suitability in Nigeria’s highland regions to establish a scientific base for saffron farming.

Lessons from Morocco

Morocco’s saffron success journey began in Taliouine, where small-scale farmers cultivated Crocus sativus by tradition.

In 2010, the government launched its Green Morocco Plan, designating saffron as a priority sector and registering ‘Taliouine Saffron’ to guarantee traceability and quality.

Modern irrigation, new equipment, and expanded cultivation increased production by about 50 percent according to the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture.

Through extension services and extensive awareness programs, registered farmers surged by 360 percent in 2014.

Today, Morocco holds a significant share of the global saffron market. According to Morocco World News, saffron is celebrated each November in Taliouine’s three-day harvest festival annually.

Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has urged the Nigerian judiciary to ensure greater speed and consistency in the adjudication of corruption cases, describing it as crucial to sustaining public confidence in the fight against graft.

According to a statement by Demola Bakare, ICPC Spokesperson, Aliyu made the call on Monday at the opening of a two-day capacity-building workshop for judicial officers, organised by the ICPC in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI), in Abuja.

The ICPC boss emphasised that while law enforcement agencies have a duty to pursue offenders, the judiciary’s efficiency in handling corruption-related trials determines whether justice truly prevails.

‘The effective administration of justice in corruption cases requires both vigorous law enforcement and scrupulous judicial oversight.

‘This programme directly supports ICPC’s Strategic Action Plan (2024-2028), which prioritizes collaboration with the judiciary to strengthen the fight against corruption’, he stated.

Aliyu explained that corruption cases in Nigeria are becoming more sophisticated due to advances in technology and the changing methods of financial crimes, making it imperative for judicial officers to continually upgrade their knowledge and skills.

Linking the initiative to his CARE for Impact policy, which focuses on prevention, enforcement, and systemic reform, he said the Commission’s efforts had already recorded measurable gains. ‘These include preventing the diversion of over ?20 billion meant for ghost workers and recovering ?2.5 billion in local government remittances across six states’, he added.

Delivering a lecture entitled ‘Fair Trials: Balancing the Statutory Powers of Law Enforcement with Judicial Powers in Adjudicating Corruption Cases,’ Aliyu said the true measure of justice lies not merely in convictions, but in fairness, integrity, and fidelity to the rule of law.

‘Justice in corruption cases lies in upholding fairness, integrity, and strict adherence to the rule of law,’ he affirmed.

He also reminded participants that both the ICPC and the judiciary share a constitutional mandate under Section 15(5) of the 1999 Constitution to abolish corrupt practices and abuse of power.

‘The synergy between law enforcement and the courts remains the cornerstone of a justice system where no one is above the law, no one is beneath its protection, and where the fight against corruption is pursued with both strength and fairness,’ Aliyu added.

The two-day workshop, jointly organised with the NJI, is part of ICPC’s broader strategy to enhance integrity, accountability, and efficiency in Nigeria’s justice sector.

Three members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s House of Representatives have formally defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The lawmakers who switched allegiance include Abdulkarim Ahmed, representing Kaduna South constituency; Aliyu Abdullahi, representing Ikara/Kubau constituency; and Sadiq Abdullahi, representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency.

Their defections were announced in separate letters read by Abbas Tajudeen, speaker of the House of Representatives, during plenary on Tuesday. They all cited the lingering party crisis and constituents’ interest as reasons for their defection.

Abbas described the lawmakers’ decision as the best decision they had ever made.

In recent months, opposition parties, particularly the PDP and the Labour Party, have experienced a wave of defections to the ruling APC, with departing members citing persistent internal crises within their parties.

The trend has raised concerns among opposition ranks about their ability to mount a strong challenge in upcoming elections, while the APC is seen as consolidating its influence in the National Assembly ahead of the 2027 polls.

When ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu walked into the United Nations headquarters in New York in 2008 as Nigeria’s first female Permanent Representative, she carried with her not just a country’s flag but the quiet confidence of a scholar who understood power and how to use it with purpose.

Ogwu, who died on Monday in New York at the age of 79, was more than a diplomat. She was a professor, scholar, minister and global stateswoman, whose life was defined by excellence, intellect and service. She didn’t just represent Nigeria abroad, she was in many ways the embodiment of the country’s aspirations on the world stage, calm, persuasive and principled. A trailblazer in diplomacy

Born on August 22, 1946, Ogwu’s rise through Nigeria’s diplomatic and academic ranks was remarkable. She was the first woman to serve as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, a position she held with distinction from 2008 to 2017. During that time, she twice presided over the UN Security Council, in July 2010 and October 2011, leading deliberations on global peace and security with grace and authority. Joy Ogwu, Nigeria’s first female UN ambassador, global peace advocate, dies at 79

Before that, she had served as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs under former president Olusegun Obasanjo, appointed in August 2006. In both roles, she combined a scholar’s discipline with a stateswoman’s tact.

‘She projected Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose,’ president Bola Tinubu said in a tribute, describing her as ‘a trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work.’ From classroom to the global stage

Ogwu’s story began in academia. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science from Rutgers University in the United States, she obtained a PhD from the University of Lagos in 1977.

That same year, she joined the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), the country’s premier foreign policy think tank, where she would eventually become the first female Director-General.

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4-0 victory over the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic, even as he assured the team of federal government’s support to ensure their qualifications for the 2026 World Cup.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement on Tuesday, said the President commended the team for keeping the nation’s hope alive as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The President praises the Super Eagles for the hunger, passion, and determination displayed on the field in Uyo, noting that the superlative performance has reignited Nigerians’ football pride.

He however urged the team not to rest in its oars, until it secures a place at the 2026 World Cup.

‘While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the playoffs. ‘The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host. ‘As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.

‘We look forward to seeing you fly our flag proudly on the world stage.’

Omniversity Imperial College LLC, Missouri USA, and Omniversity Lagos, Nigeria have announced the appointment of Ayo Oyoze Baje as director of Media and Publicity.

A statement from the Office of the President/Dean, stated that Baje brings to his role over three decades of distinguished experience in media, journalism, and public communication, spanning reputable institutions such as The Daily Times of Nigeria and other leading press establishments.

His extensive background in editorial leadership, investigative reporting, and public enlightenment uniquely positions him to strengthen Omniversity’s media presence, enhance public engagement, and promote the institution’s innovative academic vision globally. ‘As Director of Media and Publicity, Baje will oversee the development and implementation of strategic communication initiatives, coordinate press relations, manage institutional visibility, and foster constructive dialogue with both local and international media partners,’ the statement added.

Speaking on the appointment, Professor Tokunbo Akeredolu-Ale, president/dean of Omniversity Imperial College LLC, described Baje as ‘a seasoned communicator and thought leader whose professionalism and insight will greatly advance Omniversity’s mission to redefine higher education through global partnerships, academic innovation, and integrity.

‘The Management and Governing Council congratulate Mr Ayo Oyoze Baje on this well-deserved appointment and look forward to his impactful contributions toward strengthening the Omniversity brand across all media platforms.’