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The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has warned against any attempt to sabotage the recently inaugurated ‘Light Up Abuja’ project.

Wike gave the warning the inauguration of the construction of Collector Road CN2 (Emmanuel I. Ogala Street), which runs from Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo Way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), including Road ILS 5 within Katampe District, Abuja.

He explained that the warning was triggered by a recent incident where street lights on the Airport Road failed while President Bola Tinubu was returning to the capital city. The minister said he had already summoned the contractor, CCECC, for an explanation and had been briefed on their efforts.

He urged all parties involved not to relent, emphasising his administration’s resolve not to be distracted.

‘I know that all those things are just to distract us and weaken us, but I can assure you that my team and I are very determined.

‘If there is one project we must achieve, it is the ‘Light Up Abuja’ project,’ he said.

Wike also explained that the road project was part of a major infrastructure overhaul planned to commemorate President Tinubu’s third-year anniversary in office, as well as the FCT’s 50th anniversary in 2026.

He revealed that the new road was essential to give functional meaning to the recently commissioned Gishiri-Maitama road and interchange.

In life, both political and social, the world naturally defines who we are, but a few exceptional leaders redefine themselves through vision, courage, and measurable impact. Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State stands among this rare breed. When it comes to building infrastructure of international standards and driving governance through technology and innovation, he towers above many of his peers.

Across Adamawa today, the evidence of purposeful governance is visible in every local government area. From modern superhighways, flyovers, and underpasses that ease movement and promote trade, to model schools and comprehensive science secondary schools that inspire learning, to hospitals and healthcare projects that save lives, Governor Fintiri has demonstrated that development is not a slogan, but a tangible reality.

It is for these reasons that his admirers, political opponents, and neutral observers alike have come to describe him not only as ‘The Infrastructure Governor,’ but also as ‘The Digital Governor.’ His government’s fusion of infrastructure and technology has positioned Adamawa as a model for 21st-century governance in Nigeria.

This reputation was once again affirmed when Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri won the Best Governor in Digital Transformation Award 2025, Northeast region, a recognition that celebrates excellence, innovation, and the smart application of technology in governance. The award, received on his behalf by the First Lady of Adamawa State, Hajiya Lami Fintiri, is a testament to his administration’s strides in e-governance, digital education, smart security systems, and ICT-driven service delivery.

Governor Fintiri’s approach to development goes far beyond cement and iron. His strategy rests on a foundation of data-driven planning, needs assessment, stakeholder consultation, and prudent resource management. These same principles guide his digital transformation agenda – from digitizing civil service operations to introducing online platforms for tax collection, education monitoring, and healthcare management.

Under his leadership, Adamawa has witnessed massive investments in both human and digital capital. In education, the introduction of digital learning tools in schools, the establishment of ICT centres across government agencies , the digitalization of the government archives, and the integration of computer studies into basic education reflect his forward-looking philosophy. His government’s scholarship programs, free WAEC and NECO initiatives, and digital literacy training for teachers all underscore his belief that every Adamawa child deserves a 21st-century education.

In the health sector, the Fintiri administration has introduced electronic medical record systems in major hospitals, upgraded healthcare facilities, and improved data management, ensuring more efficient and transparent service delivery. From the upgraded Specialist Hospital, Yola, to General Hospitals in and construction of cottage hospitals, technology now complements infrastructure to save lives.

The rural sector has not been left behind. Through the deployment of solar-powered water schemes, digital mapping for agricultural planning, and technology-assisted rural electrification monitoring, the Fintiri administration is ensuring that the benefits of innovation reach even the most remote communities.

Housing, urban renewal, and smart street-lighting projects have further transformed the aesthetics and functionality of Yola and other major towns. The Adamawa State Housing Development Programme continues to deliver affordable homes for civil servants and low-income earners, the 1,000 Fintiri Housing Units are now being allocated through transparent, digital platforms to civil servants.

It is therefore unsurprising that Governor Fintiri continues to receive recognition from across the country , from federal institutions, media organizations, civil society, and the citizenry. As recently noted by the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, who openly admitted to learning from Fintiri’s developmental strategies, ‘Adamawa has become a case study in modern governance.’

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s leadership symbolizes a bridge between physical infrastructure and digital transformation , building not only roads and bridges but also a knowledge-driven future for Adamawa.

His Best Governor in Digital Transformation Award 2025 is thus not just a trophy of recognition but a validation of his forward-thinking governance model , one that blends progress with innovation, and vision with technology.

Congratulations to the Governor of Infrastructure, Innovation, Human Development and Digital Innovation; Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

At least 236 people have lost their lives to devastating floods that have swept through 27 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) this year, according to the latest update from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) 2025 Flood Dashboard.

The report shows that 409,714 Nigerians have so far been affected across 117 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with thousands displaced and extensive damage recorded to homes and farmlands.

Niger State recorded the highest number of fatalities with 163 deaths, followed by Adamawa with 59. Taraba reported five deaths; Sokoto, three; Jigawa and Yobe, two each; while Gombe and Borno recorded one death each.

According to NEMA, 135,764 persons were displaced, 115 declared missing, and 826 others injured in the floods. Additionally, 47,708 houses were damaged, while 62,653 farmlands were destroyed across the affected states.

The agency noted that among those severely impacted were 188,118 children, 125,307 women, 77,423 men, 18,866 elderly persons, and 2,418 persons with disabilities.

A breakdown of the affected population shows that Adamawa topped the chart with 60,608 affected and 23,077 displaced persons, followed by Lagos with 57,951 affected and 3,680 displaced. Akwa Ibom recorded 46,233 affected and 40,140 displaced, while Taraba reported 28,107 affected and 4,465 displaced.

In Imo State, 26,041 persons were affected and 13,254 displaced; Kaduna, 24,240 affected and 1,237 displaced; Rivers, 22,345 affected and 9,645 displaced; Abia, 11,907 affected and 4,896 displaced; Edo, 18,373 affected and 7,681 displaced; Kebbi, 16,918 affected and 5,718 displaced; and Sokoto, 15,675 affected and 4,566 displaced.

Other states affected by the floods include the FCT, Anambra, Bayelsa, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, and Ondo.

NEMA said it continues to monitor the situation and coordinate emergency responses in collaboration with state governments and humanitarian partners.

The National Hydroelectric Power producing Areas Development Commission ( N-HYPPADEC) has reinstated its commitment to collaborates with riverine communities under its mandate to promote and preserve their cultural and traditional activities for peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups for a better society.

The managing Director of the commission , Alhaji Abubakar Sediq Yelwa disclosed this at the weekend in Lokoja at the 6th edition of Lokoja boat regatta annual festival .

Alhaji Yelwa who was represented by the commission’s Director of Finance and Administration, Jimoh Haruna Gabi says that African has a rich culture which knitted all ethnic nationalities together that need to be encouraged and preserved to make implementation of policies possible, with positive impact .

He said : ‘Culture is a way of life that serves as a tonic of development; if it’s encouraged and preserved, it breeds unity, cooperation, understanding for peaceful living.

‘It makes people adhere to rules of laws and reduces vices in the society; besides making implementation of policies feasible and impactful.

The commission disclosed further that it’s working out a safety measures to strengthen the activities of inland waterways in attempt of its management and operatives to mitigate incessant accidents on water ways in the country.

‘The agency is collaborating with other management and enforcement agencies of waterways to ensure that boat operators works within stipulated safety guide lines to reduce avoidable mishaps on water ways within its mandate .

‘Towards ensuring an accident- free navigation on waterways under its mandate, the commission has embarked on implementation of various interventions in riverine communities, providing safety jackets , modern fibre speed boats, motorcycles and empowerment, including conducting trainings for boat users and operators’, Gabi said.

However, the commission commiserated with the family of the victims of the recent boat accident at Onugwa in Ibaji local government area in the state , stressing that more measures are being worked out to reduce such carnage in the waterways in the nearest future .

In his remarks , the chairman of the Lokoja boat regatta, Barrister Naseer A Ahmed , Dan Danmsn Lokoja said the annual festival was an avenue to showcase the rich culture of Lokoja ethnic extractions and its environs.

Barrister Ahmed says for meaningful impact within and global community, he called on kogi state government, kogites within and diaspora to partner with the Lokoja Boat Regatta committee to expand its programmes in order to attract foreign tourists for better deal.

‘I request that the state government takes over the sponsorship of the annual Lokoja boat regatta to showcase our products to give a national outlook’, he said.

Earlier, the chairman Forum of Patriots, the organizer of the event since 2017 , Alhaji Idris Baba’Ango says, among others, the aims include: to re-awake and promote cultural heritage ; to enhance local economic development and to foster unity and social interaction among diverse ethnic groups in the riverine communities within Lokoja local government.

‘Lokoja’s strength lies in its diversity, and this regatta is a celebration of that enduring unity’, said Baba’Ango

The Kogi State Governor who was represented by Alhaji Baba Inusa commended the Lokoja Forum for its contributions towards the revival of our cultural heritage for a better society.

Senator Tunde Ogbeha, Patron of the Forum, praised the organizers for their dedication and consistency, describing the boat regatta as ‘a unifying cultural event that promotes peace, tourism, and inter-community relations in Lokoja and Kogi State at large’.

The occasion which attracted dignities from all walks of life, within and outside the state has His Royal Highness(HRH) , Alhaji Muhammed Sanni, the Angankyu of Kakanda as the Royal Father of the Day.

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of several prizes and awards winning groups at the regatta competing activities.

While Adankolo Group won the Boat Decoration Contest; Lokoja Ward B Team clinched Swimming Competition, and Eggan Ward emerged winner in the Female Boat Paddling Category. Also, Kabawa Youth Boat Club won Speedboat Race, while the Lokoja Waterfront Cultural Troupe received the Best Cultural Performance Award.

The perennial fire outbreaks in Lagos markets have exposed the gap in financial literacy on insurance protection, as the traders were thrown into a state of helplessness as a result of the fire outbreak.

The recent fire outbreak at Mandilas, which occurred on September 16, razing over 200 shops worth billions of naira, has not only left sour tastes in the mouths of shop owners but also ravaged a major financial driver of the economy and exposed the gaps in insurance cover, mostly in the informal sector.

Unarguably, insurance is a cornerstone of financial resilience in some developed economies. It mitigates risks that support entrepreneurship, secures households against unforeseen shocks, promotes long-term savings and investments, and stabilises financial markets.

However, Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains alarmingly low at less than 1.0 per cent, compared to South Africa’s 11.54 per cent, Namibia’s 7.41 per cent, Morocco’s 4.10 per cent, Kenya’s 2.25 per cent, and the global average of 6.8 per cent.

Conversely, the NIIRA 2025 ushers in a fresh attempt to resolve the constraints in the repealed 2003 Act, promising to revamp the industry.

Daily Trust findings showed that some of the shop owners who lost millions of naira during the recent fire outbreak lacked insurance cover, leaving them with the burden of restocking amidst little hope of recovery.

Tales of unfortunate incidents

Anthony Obidi, who sells both cloth and footwear at King Plaza, narrated his ordeal, stressing that the unfortunate incident was his second experience in less than two years.

He recalled the fire outbreak in January 2024, describing the recent occurrence as adding salt to injury, especially at the period of business boom with the imminent festive seasons.

‘Personally, I lost goods and I lost my shops in the process as well. Last year we experienced something like that and then we experienced something like this and then, unfortunately, this year at this critical time of the year.

‘We are facing the same unfortunate incident. But, I think the long and short of it is that we lost goods, our means of livelihood, but life itself subsists. So I think that’s just the most important thing and that is the hope that everybody is holding on to,’ he said.

He lamented that the fire outbreak has not only destroyed their businesses but also deprived them of the ability to meet financial responsibilities at the home front, including paying their children’s school fees.

‘There is the psychological effect on the people that lost one thing or the other. For the past two weeks we have been hanging around. No business and all of that. Calculate that, people that got dependents. If you calculate the multiplier effect of this, you realize that so many people are at this critical period when people are paying school fees,’ he said.

He revealed that his business, worth millions of naira, was not insured, saying he has never thought of insuring his business.

‘This is the second time I was getting involved in this kind of stuff. Another thing is, the insurance companies come with their own conditions and those conditions deal with the present situation. Because a whole lot of things have to be involved. They have to find the situation conducive for them too.

‘It’s not something that one man can handle. When the insurance companies come, they see some of the dangers involved and they believe that going into this, this is not going to work in their favor. The tendency is there for them to just withdraw.’

He, however, emphasized the need for insurance companies to enlighten market unions in an attempt to avert the risk of any future occurrence.

‘It’s about enlightenment on the part of both the insurance companies, government and the unions involved. The insurance companies can liaise with the leaders of the market unions. It’s a fact of life that while you are living, we are living in the midst of death, calamities, emergencies and all of that. But the problem is about enlightenment,’ he said.

Evans Iheanancho, whose shop was razed by fire, recounted that he lost over N7m, resorting to his faith in God and possible support from the government.

‘I lost over N7m. We are trying to see whether the government will help or assist us to know what to do about because since then we are stranded and looking unto God to know our next fate,’ he said.

He highlighted the attendant challenges arising from the loss of his goods, noting that he has been struggling to meet financial obligations at home.

‘As a family man, it has affected my family because it is from the business I feed and take care of my children and the school fees are very expensive and they have resumed but I don’t have the money to pay their school fees,’ he lamented.

He disclosed that his business was not insured.

‘I don’t have insurance for my business and now it has crashed,’ he said.

Another shop owner who identified himself as Sodiq said he is also hoping for miracle to recover from the fire incident, admitting that his business was not insured.

‘We need help. The fire outbreak ruined my business. It has become hard to feed. I don’t have insurance on my business,’ he said.

Experts weigh in

Professor of Insurance and Finance at Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Prof. Nwite Christian, emphasized the need for shop owners to be covered by fire insurance policy.

He, however, expressed concerns over the apathy towards insurance cover in the informal sector.

‘Nigeria, as a developing country, doesn’t value insurance, and most of the policies the government makes are not actually supervised or implemented. Fire insurance policy is actually a necessary thing. And the condition of that, because one, some of them are very careless,’ he said.

He called on the government to ensure that shop owners subscribe to fire insurance.

‘They should make it compulsory for you if you have a shop in this market, that you need to have fire insurance in case of any fire accident. In advanced countries, you insure your watch, you insure your shoes, you insure everything,’ he said.

The Commissioner for National Insurance Commission, Olusegun Omosehin, emphasised the need for financial literacy for entrepreneurs in medium and small-scale enterprises (MSMEs) to understand the importance of fire insurance policy.

‘The issue is certainly not that of lack of availability of products. It’s the non-desire of those entrepreneurs, or their lack of understanding to deliver the actual need of protection,’ he said.

He stressed that adequate regulations are in place for public buildings to have fire insurance policies, saying that entrepreneurs should have insurance protection in a bid to protect them against the risk of destruction of their assets against fire.

‘All those public buildings are made compulsory by law, right, for them to have fire policies. But yes, I think there’s a whole lot of financial literacy that needs to happen with our MSMEs, medium and small-scale enterprises. We need to understand that, honestly, the little capital you have that you are trading with needs to be protected.

‘If you value that shop, if you value that asset, then you need to provide some minimum level of protection. And honestly, the least you can do is a fire policy and especially for those sorts of locations, it’s compulsory,’ he said.

A unit manager at the American International Insurance Company (AIICO), who did not want his name in print, explained that businesses in the informal sector fall under the non-life insurance category, which protects their assets from both fire and burglary risks.

‘The purpose of insurance is to bring the person back to this current position. For instance, if one has like a billion naira worth of business, what the person might pay can be less than 1% of that worth. In some cases we have 0.5, 0.8, 0.05% of the value of that business,’ he said.

He revealed that there is a growing apathy for entrepreneurs to insure their businesses, but added that insurance institutions that fail on their part can be sued.

‘I want to believe that and again, their complaint is that at times, insurance doesn’t pay, which is not true. It may have been before but presently, there are bodies that are controlling the insurance business. We have what we call NAICOM, PENCOM and different bodies in the country controlling this.

‘So, if somebody is insured and it’s not paid, you can sue the person. But there is a policy document that will be given to you. When you insure, you have a document called a policy document. It’s a legal document. It can be tendered anywhere.

‘But the turnout is low in the country and again, people think they are wasting money, until the eventuality happens. Nobody wants to just give out, they think it’s free money.’

The recent presidential pardon and clemency granted to about 150 persons, both foreigners and Nigerians continues to elicit mixed reactions across the country. While some see it as an act of compassion and justice, others believe it undermines the ongoing fight against crime and corruption in Nigeria.

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, under Chapter 6, Part 1, Section 175, gives the President the constitutional powers to exercise the Prerogative of Mercy. This provision empowers the President to grant pardons, reprieves, and commutations of sentences to convicted persons. However, the controversy surrounding this particular list stems from the nature of offences committed by some of the beneficiaries.

The list includes individuals convicted of capital offences, such as murder, drug trafficking, bribery, corruption, and other serious crimes. While the President’s action is legally justified, many Nigerians have expressed concern that the gesture may send the wrong message, one that portrays crime as something negotiable for those with influence or connections.

Granting pardons to such offenders, after taxpayers’ money and time were invested in their investigation, prosecution, and imprisonment, leaves much to be desired. The move may weaken public trust in the justice system and discourage law enforcement agencies from performing their duties diligently.

Moreover, such actions could have grave security implications. Some of those released might bear grudges against security personnel who arrested, investigated, or testified against them in court. This puts the lives of these officers and even judges who presided over their cases at potential risk, especially those who have retired and no longer enjoy official protection.

There is also the issue of inequality in justice. Thousands of Nigerians remain behind bars for minor offences, with no influential figures to plead their cases or lobby for their release. For them, justice seems to depend not on the law, but on connections. This disparity continues to raise questions about fairness and equal treatment under the law.

In a country battling insecurity, corruption, and a weakened justice system, presidential pardons of such magnitude must be handled with the utmost care and transparency. While mercy is a noble virtue, justice must not be sacrificed on its altar.

For the fight against crime to be effective, everyone who commits an offence should be allowed to serve their full term, irrespective of status or connection. This will not only strengthen faith in the judicial process but also serve as a strong deterrent to others who may be tempted to commit similar crimes.

The prerogative of mercy should remain an instrument of justice and rehabilitation, not one that erodes public confidence in the rule of law.

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has launched an investigation into allegations of certificate racketeering involving Nigerian polytechnics and blacklisted universities in the Republic of Benin.

The Punch had reported over the weekend that certain private polytechnics may be colluding to fraudulently mobilise graduates into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) using fabricated National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates.

NBTE, in a statement by its spokesperson, Fatima Abubakar, said it has initiated preliminary inquiries and formally contacted both the NYSC and Punch Newspaper to obtain relevant information that will aid a thorough investigation.

The Board emphasised that the integrity of Nigeria’s technical education system remains paramount and warned that any institution found culpable will face regulatory sanctions, including possible withdrawal of operational licenses and prosecution.

It also called on the public and stakeholders to remain calm and vigilant, urging them to report any suspicious activities involving Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

‘The NBTE wishes to categorically state that it does not condone, support, or tolerate any form of certificate racketeering or academic fraud.

‘We appreciate the Nigerian press, especially the recent cases of investigative journalism in the country, leading to cleaning up our system,’ the statement said.

The NBTE reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies to uphold the credibility of Nigeria’s polytechnic education, pledging to support a transparent restitution of the sector and ensure academic integrity at all levels.

The Board assured that it would take decisive action against any institution found to be undermining the standards of technical education in Nigeria.

The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 8 produced drama, goals and surprises across the country – none bigger than Kun Khalifat’s shock win over Enyimba and Katsina United’s emphatic triumph against champions Remo Stars.

In Owerri, newly promoted Kun Khalifat earned a famous 1-0 victory over eight-time champions Enyimba International. After a tense first half, Ebuka Nwokorie broke the deadlock in the 69th minute with a stunning free-kick that curled over the wall and into the net past goalkeeper Ogunga. The hosts held firm until the final whistle to claim a memorable win that sent their fans into wild celebrations.

In Katsina, Katsina United delivered one of their best performances of the season with a convincing 3-1 victory over reigning champions Remo Stars. Elijah Akanni opened scoring on 31 minutes, but Abubakar Ibrahim equalized for Remo eight minutes later.

The home side regained control in the second half when Uche Collins converted a 61st-minute penalty before Abdulrahman Garba sealed the win deep into stoppage time, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error from Sabitou to make it 3-1.

Elsewhere, Plateau United defeated Barau FC 2-0 in Jos, with Amietimi Enewarikpemi and Vincent Temitope scoring in quick succession early in the second half. In Umuahia, Abia Warriors continued their strong form as Casmir Azubuike netted twice within four minutes to secure a 2-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors.

Nasarawa United came from behind to edge Enugu Rangers 2-1 in Lafia, courtesy of goals from Anas Yusuf and John Joshua after Wisdom Ebirim had given Rangers an early lead. Ikorodu City also grabbed a narrow 1-0 home win against Bendel Insurance, with Folarin Temitope striking early.

In other results, Wikki Tourists and Kwara United played out a 1-1 draw in Bauchi after Kwara goalkeeper Nurudeen Badmos saved a crucial 75th-minute penalty, while Warri Wolves and Niger Tornadoes also shared the spoils in a 1-1 affair. Kano Pillars were denied victory late on as Shooting Stars grabbed a stoppage-time equalizer in a 1-1 draw which ended with fans encroaching into the field.

Meanwhile, the league’s management has said it monitored and has noted with concern the disturbing reports and viral video clips from the clash between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars, indicating that fans invaded the pitch shortly after the final whistle.

The statement signed by Davidson Owumi, the Chief Operating Officer, assured that while the league awaits the official match reports and complete video evidence from the Match Commissioner and Referees, ‘we condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans’.

China and Nigeria have re-echoed their shared commitment to gender equality, cultural diplomacy, and creative collaboration at the 2025 China Women’s Film Festival, which opened on Friday at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.

The four-day festival – jointly organised by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the China Cultural Centre – celebrates the power of women in film.

It features four women-themed Chinese films: The Dumpling Queen, The Beautiful Life, Song of Spring, and Her Story, with each film highlighting the strength, creativity, and resilience of women shaping society through their stories.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Zhou Hongyou, representing the Chinese Embassy, described women as ‘an indispensable force in the development of human society’.

‘Women are not only the foundation of families and societies but also a vital force driving social development and progress,’ Zhou said. ‘The Chinese government has always attached great importance to improving women’s social status and creating equal opportunities in education and employment.’

Citing data from China’s latest government white paper, Zhou highlighted major milestones in women’s development, stating that, ‘Today, 690 million women in China have achieved moderate prosperity. Women now account for 43 per cent of the total employed population, and more than half of university students are female, with an average life expectancy of 80.9 years.’

He added that China’s national development plans consistently integrate women’s advancement, noting that the country remains ‘a practitioner and advocate of gender equality’.

‘China is willing to work with Nigeria and other countries to accelerate women’s comprehensive development and open a new chapter in women’s empowerment globally,’ he affirmed.

Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Gabriel Zock, commended the initiative at the opening ceremony.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by her Special Assistant on Creative Economy, Rukkayah Mohammed, described the festival as ‘a distinguished platform celebrating creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to connect nations and inspire change.’

Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated that the moment aligns closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places people at the heart of national development.

She explained that through the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programme, the Ministry is advancing initiatives to promote women’s economic empowerment, strengthen family systems, enhance child protection, and improve the welfare of vulnerable groups.

‘Through the power of film, the China Women’s Film Festival presents authentic stories of women – stories that mirror resilience, leadership, and the universal quest for equity.’

Coca-Cola is bringing back its ‘Share a Coke’ campaign on an unprecedented scale of shareability and personalization for a new generation, pushing the boundaries of innovative brand experiences.

In 2011, the brand launched this first-of-its-kind campaign in which you could find your name in place of the logo – an industry-first in personalization. Now the brand wants you to share a Coke with your friends to celebrate your friendship and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A statement by Coca-Cola noted that the brand’s unique customization platform ‘offers even more names to choose from and the ability to add your own personal touch, you can create a truly unique Coca-Cola can or bottle to express your appreciation for friends, family, and loved ones. It’s a simple gesture that can strengthen and deepen connections.’

‘Meaningful connections thrive both online and offline. While digital spaces keep us close, it’s those shared moments in real life that make for long lasting memories, yet the physical ‘third spaces’ that nourish these meaningful connections are in decline.

‘Share a Coke’ is celebrating the connections and experiences that define this generation in spaces that allow moments of togetherness to thrive.

‘So how can you join the fun? Look for Coca-Cola cans or bottles in-store and get ready to share the moment with your crew.

‘Consumers can experience the campaign in real time through exciting consumer promotions, special meal experiences, and of course, the shared connection of Nigerian names on Coca-Cola’s cans and bottles. This year, Nigerians stand a chance to win their share of millions in cash and prizes every week from October 31 to December 31 2025, exclusively through personalized 50 cl Coca-Cola bottles available at any major retailer nationwide,’ the statement explained.

The statement said through each personalized beverage, Coca-Cola will be refreshing Nigerians as they make long-lasting memories.

Valerie Odubogun, Director, Frontline Marketing, Coca-Cola Nigeria in the statement said: ‘In today’s digital world, it is important to celebrate the unique bonds of friendships and celebrate this important human connection.

‘Share a Coke’ reminds us that memories happen when we come together and experience the real magic of human connection; those spontaneous moments of laughter, stories, and genuine connection, shared over a Coca-Cola can, make life so special.’