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China has reaffirmed its commitment to working with Nigeria and other nations to promote the comprehensive advancement of women around the world.

Speaking at the weekend during the China Women’s Film Festival in Abuja, Zhou Hongyou, Minister at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, underscored China’s longstanding dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Hongyou noted that the Chinese government continues to prioritize women’s progress in education, employment, and social inclusion, describing women as a vital force in the country’s rapid economic and social transformation.

He announced that the forthcoming Global Women’s Summit will focus on promoting gender equality and empowering women as key agents of sustainable development, in alignment with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

‘This year’s summit will focus on promoting gender equality and women’s development, and on advancing the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,’ he said.

Hongyou added that China has integrated women’s development goals into its national five-year economic and social plans, using women’s status as a benchmark for assessing the nation’s overall progress.

‘Chinese women have fully utilised their intelligence, talents, and creativity, playing an indispensable role in China’s transformation from a poor and backward country to a world economic powerhouse over the past five decades,’ he stated.

He also highlighted China’s expanding international cooperation efforts, noting that partnerships with countries like Nigeria are crucial to accelerating global progress in women’s development.

‘China is working with the Nigerian side and other countries around the world to accelerate the comprehensive development of women and open a new chapter in the advancement of the women’s cause globally,’ Hongyou said.

In his remarks, Gabriel Saleh Zock, Chairman of the House Committee on Culture and Creative Economy, lauded China’s partnership with Nigeria in promoting cultural diplomacy through initiatives like the China Women’s Film Festival. He said such collaborations not only celebrate women in film but also strengthen cultural and creative ties between both nations.

‘I commend the Embassy of China and the China Cultural Center in Nigeria for their consistent commitment to building cultural diplomacy and fostering creative exchange between our two nations, Nigeria and China. This festival is another bridge linking our creative communities, inspiring new possibilities for cooperation, artistic collaboration, and knowledge exchange,’ he stated.

Zock also stressed Nigeria’s dedication to gender inclusion and empowerment, revealing that the National Assembly is actively working to ensure greater female representation in governance, aligning with broader global goals for gender equality.

‘Just like how we are doing in the National Assembly now, we are trying to amend the Constitution and make a reserve seat for 30% women inclusion in governance. By God’s grace, in the coming years, more women will take their rightful place in leadership and decision-making across our nation.

‘Together, Nigeria and China can champion a creative future where talent knows no bounds and where art continues to unite humanity. When women tell their stories, society evolves; and when nations exchange their art, peace and prosperity follow. Let us reaffirm our shared responsibility to make cultural diplomacy a cornerstone of development and mutual understanding,’ he added.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Suleman-Ibrahim, said the China Women’s Film Festival is a distinguished platform that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to connect nations and inspire change.

‘It is a great honour to join you at this year’s China Women’s Film Festival, a distinguished platform that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to connect nations and inspire change. Through the art of film, we are reminded that stories have the power to bridge cultures, ignite compassion, and build mutual understanding across borders,’ she said.

She said that the festival coincides with renewed international reflection on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, underscoring its lasting influence on global gender equality and women’s empowerment.

‘This festival holds a special significance as it coincides with the renewed global reflection on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework that has guided three decades of advocacy for women’s rights, gender equality, and empowerment. As the world revisits the spirit of Beijing, we reaffirm our shared duty to ensure that every woman and girl, everywhere, lives freely, fulfilled, and empowered to reach her full potential,’ she added.

Rukkayah also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing programs designed to uplift women, strengthen families, and support vulnerable groups.

‘For Nigeria, this moment aligns closely with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places people at the heart of national development. Through the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programme, the Federal Ministry of Women’s Affairs is driving transformative initiatives that promote women’s economic empowerment, strengthen the family system, enhance child protection, and improve welfare for vulnerable groups building a more inclusive, just, and compassionate society.

‘Deepening collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria holds immense promise for advancing women’s development. China’s success in leveraging culture, technology, and social innovation provides valuable lessons for Nigeria. Together, our partnership can expand opportunities for capacity-building, creative industry exchange, and women-led entrepreneurship particularly in film, digital storytelling, and cultural diplomacy ensuring that women’s voices continue to shape communities and inspire global progress,’ she stated

The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Oludare Sunday, has called for enhanced collaboration between the Corporation and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in addressing emerging risks and challenges within Nigeria’s banking sector.

The MD/CE made the call during a courtesy visit by the President/Chairman of the Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, and members of his executive team to the Abuja headquarters of NDIC.

The NDIC Chief Executive emphasized the need for a stronger partnership between both institutions in critical areas such as digital banking, cybersecurity, fraud and forgery prevention, and sound risk management.

The MD noted that while the phenomena of the emerging issues are on the rise, regulators and operators must come together to proffer solutions which help build a stronger financial ecosystem that withstands the vagaries of the innovations to deliver value to the economy.

While commending the growth of the CIBN as a professional body over the years, and its positive impact on the banking system, the NDIC boss further called on the Institute to take a critical interest in working more closely with regulators to fashion innovative failure resolution strategies that strengthen the overall resilience of the banking sector.

In a statement by Hawwau Gambo, Head of Communication and Public Affairs at the Corporation, the NDIC MD reaffirmed the Corporation’s commitment to supporting professional bodies such as the CIBN in developing and implementing initiatives that promote innovation while upholding sound risk management frameworks and ensuring financial system stability.

President and Chairman of Council of the CIBN, Prof. Olanrewaju particularly commended the NDIC for its notable milestone achievements, highlighting the upward review of deposit insurance coverage aimed at strengthening public confidence in the banking system; the deployment of technology to expedite the reimbursement of depositors of the failed Heritage Bank; and the commencement of liquidation dividend payments within one year of the bank’s closure.

While expressing confidence in the capacity of the MD/CE to uphold the trust reposed in the Corporation by the public based on his sound track record and expertise, Prof. Olanrewaju noted that these accomplishments by the Corporation have significantly enhanced depositor and investor confidence in the financial system.

The CIBN President also expressed appreciation to the NDIC for its invaluable contributions and active role as a member of the Institute’s Governing Council, noting that its participation has greatly strengthened the Council’s oversight functions, policy direction, and ethical leadership.

All arrangements have been concluded for the 4th edition of the Olawale Ogunbusola School Competition and Awards, scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the National Museum of Unity, Aleshinloye, Ibadan.

A statement by the event’s convener, broadcast journalist, author, and education advocate, Olawale Ogunbusola, described the annual event as a platform designed to strengthen students’ academic competence, boost their confidence, and provide exposure to intellectual and social development.

According to Ogunbusola, the initiative reflects both personal and collective commitment to nurturing a generation of informed, inspired, and responsible young Nigerians through education and the recognition of excellence.

He disclosed that outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their respective professions will be honoured at the ceremony.

The event will be co-chaired by Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and Hon. Kunle Olatunji, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Senator representing Oyo Central.

Also serving as Fathers of the Day are Dr. Babatunde Balogun Oruomeniowo, Chairman of Prince 89.7 FM, Ibadan, and Pastor Tayo Olatunji.

Special guests expected at the event include Comrade Bosun Olabiyi-Agoro, Oyo State Trade Union Chairman; Mrs. Bosede Sodiq, Senior Special Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Governor; Mr. Adetunji Lam-Adesina, CEO of 11-11-12; Elder Babatunde Oloyede, CAF Competition Manager and former Director of Oyo State Sports Council; Mrs. Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, Zonal Director, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (Southwest); Dr. Oyetunji Oluokun of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital; Mrs. Olaide Turner-Moyet, Director, Alliance Française, Ibadan; and Mr. Johnson Awodeji, Registrar (Exams), Oyo State Ministry of Education.

Also expected are representatives from SQI College of ICT and Robotics, Max-African Publishers, K-Dray, and Ige Sam.

Guest speakers for the 2025 edition include Professor Kehinde Jacob Ayantayo, Professor of Religion, Ethics, and Sociology at the University of Ibadan; Engr. Dr. Anthony Adeniji, CEO of Buff-I-Limited, and Mr. Olagunju Adelayo, Assistant Director, Medical Social Services, University of Ibadan.

They will speak on contemporary issues such as ‘Combating Fire and Flood Menace,’ ‘When Will Religious Crisis End?’ and ‘Addressing Cultism among Students,’ with discussions framed within both national and global contexts.

Ten secondary schools approved by the Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology will compete in this year’s edition. They include Springs of Wisdom, Kulodi, St. Louis Grammar School, Lord’s Banner School, Community College High School, Lantem Private School, Outstanding Basic Academy, Immanuel College High School, Qiblah School, Bashorun-Oojo High School, and Unique Private School.

Award recipients include Otunba Ayomiku Ajibola, Chairman, Oyo State Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN); Alhaji Waheed Lamidi, Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Surveyors; Mrs. Ayodeni Aluko, Founder, Iseya TV; Rotimi Agboluaje, Reporter, The Guardian; and Adewale Owoade, Cameraman, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Others are Pastor Adewale Adeiwa of Prince FM; Ms. Mercy Omoki, Regional Overseer, MFM Gbagi; Dr. Stephen Oyedele, Community Development Advocate; Hon. Oyejide Adeniyi, 2027 Egbeda House of Assembly aspirant; Mrs. Opeyemi Adabaale, Founder, Springs of Wisdom Schools; and ten other trailblazers across education, media, business, and civic engagement.

Over 250 participants, including students, educators, dignitaries, and media professionals, are expected to attend the event.

The Katsina State Police Command has announced that it successfully foiled several banditry attacks, recovered a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), fabricated firearms, and arrested 168 suspects across the state.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, disclosed this during a press briefing in Katsina while presenting the Command’s achievements for the month of September on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

According to him, the Command adopted multiple security strategies and worked tirelessly to safeguard lives and property across the state.

Highlighting the successes recorded, Aliyu said the police arrested 12 suspected armed robbers, 5 murder and culpable homicide suspects, and 14 suspected illicit drug dealers, among others.

‘The Command foiled several bandit attacks, neutralising five suspected armed bandits and rescuing over 80 kidnapped victims within the period under review,’ he stated.

Recovered exhibits, he said, included 1,298 rounds of live ammunition, four cartridges, one GPMG, two AK-47 rifles, and a large quantity of suspected vandalised electric cables, among other items.

Aliyu commended the Katsina State Government and residents for their continued support, collaboration, and assistance in maintaining peace and order.

He also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency contact lines to sustain the ongoing fight against crime and insecurity in the state.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested four suspects involved in a ‘one-chance’ robbery and attempted kidnapping.

In the process, two victims were successfully rescued.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh: ‘On 8th October 2025, at about 10:09 p.m., the Command received a report at Life Camp Police Station that a victim had called in distress, alleging that she had been abducted by suspected criminals who demanded a ransom of ?1,000,000 for her release.

‘Upon receipt of the report, police operatives from Life Camp Division immediately swung into action. Through the deployment of digital and tactical intelligence, on 9th October 2025, at about 4:30 a.m., the suspects were arrested at Dape Village after a near-deadly confrontation with the police.

‘Two victims were rescued during the operation. However, one of them, who sustained multiple stab wounds inflicted by the suspects, was promptly rushed to Gwarinpa General Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

‘The arrested suspects are: Solomon Tanko ‘m’, Samuel Audu ‘m’, Chigozie Joseph ‘m’, Emmanuel Chidiebere ‘m”.

Adeh said further investigation revealed that the suspects have been involved in a series of ‘one-chance’ robberies around the Bannex and Kado areas, using a vehicle with tinted windows to deceive unsuspecting passengers.

She said they revealed that they had picked and robbed six (6) victims, both men and women, before their arrest.

Exhibits recovered from the suspects include: 15 international passports, two sharp daggers, two cutlasses, bloodstained documents, four mobile phones, two hammers, and three biros.

Adeh said the suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

‘The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, commended the swift response of the Life Camp Divisional Police Officers and urged residents to always trust the police and report incidents promptly for quick intervention.

‘He also advised members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, and CRU FCT: 08107314192’, she added.

A new technology designed to bring empirical precision to sports predictions is on the horizon. According to the Founder of City Rebels Predictions (CRSPredictions), Osifeso Olamiji, the innovation aims to transform sports forecasting from guesswork into a science-driven process powered by data, logic, and analytics.

In a statement, Olamiji said the goal is to help fans understand the science behind sports outcomes rather than depend on luck.

‘I wanted to build something that changes how people think about sports. Behind every match lies data – patterns, probability, and logic. That’s what CRSPredictions helps people see,’ he said.

Unlike conventional prediction platforms, CRSPredictions focuses on responsible engagement, positioning itself as an educational and analytical tool rather than a gambling hub. This distinction, Olamiji noted, has earned the platform credibility among young stakeholders seeking more than mere speculation.

Beyond sports analysis, he said the platform also aims to serve as a knowledge hub for young Africans. Through mentorship programmes, training, and data literacy workshops, CRSPredictions seeks to show how analytical thinking in sports can be applied to real-world problem-solving.

‘If you can analyse a football match properly, you can analyse a business decision. It’s all logic, patience, and structure,’ he explained.

Looking ahead, Olamiji revealed plans to launch a mobile app, integrate machine learning tools, and forge partnerships with African sports data firms to further enhance the platform’s capabilities.

‘Africa has the passion. Now, we need to match that passion with precision. That’s the future we’re building. I just want to prove that if you stay consistent, your idea can grow. CRSPredictions is still young, but we’re building something Africa will be proud of,’ he added.

Launched in July 2022, CRSPredictions, according to the founder, uses structured data to interpret player and team performance. The platform, he explained, offers deep-dive analyses, player trends, and predictive models designed to make sports debates more informed. ‘We’re not guessing. We predict based on information. We want users to see the logic and the data behind every result.’

With a background in Computer and Mathematical Sciences, combined with early lessons from street trading, Olamiji drew inspiration to merge logic with passion through CRSPredictions. By 2024, while serving as an Admin Officer in a Petroleum and Engineering company, he was managing both roles, an experience he said strengthened his organisational mindset.

‘Working in a structured environment helped me understand systems and organisation. It gave me the discipline to build CRSPredictions sustainably, not as a hustle, but as a real business,’ he explained.

Olamiji, who cut his entrepreneurial teeth in Mandilas Market, Lagos, trading in automobiles and fashion, also admonished the youths.

‘You learn that business isn’t about comfort; it’s about creativity and consistency. Every setback taught me to adapt and innovate,’ he said, adding that the years he spent on Mandilas Street laid the foundation for his business discipline.

The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have traded words following the mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the State House of Assembly to the ruling party.

The development followed the official defection of two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers – Oladiji Oguntudo, representing Akure South Constituency I, and Raymond Daodu, Deputy Minority Leader and member representing Akoko South West Constituency I – to the APC during plenary.

Before their defection, Oguntudo and Daodu were the only remaining PDP members in the Assembly, which is presided over by Speaker Olamide Oladiji and already dominated by the APC. Their move now gives the ruling party total control of all 26 seats, leaving the parliament without an opposition.

Reacting to the development, the Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) described the situation as a major threat to democracy and accountability.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Alo Martins, the coalition warned that a legislature without opposition undermines checks and balances and weakens governance.

‘A democratic system without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only,’ the statement read.

However, the APC defended the defections, describing them as an endorsement of the ruling party’s performance and leadership. The party said the lawmakers’ decision to join its ranks reflects growing public confidence in its efforts to deliver good governance and improve the lives of Ondo residents.

‘Opposition lawmakers are essential for checks and balances, rigorous policy debates, and oversight of the executive arm. When the legislature becomes a one-party chamber, it risks degenerating into a rubber stamp, unable to question policies, demand transparency, or defend citizens’ interests.’

The group described the mass defection as a ‘betrayal of the electorate’s trust,’ noting that the lawmakers were elected based on specific party manifestos and platforms.

CACSOD said, ‘Voters who supported opposition candidates now find themselves represented by members of the ruling party without their consent. Such political opportunism undermines the integrity of elections and erodes citizens’ faith in the democratic process.’

The coalition called on the National Assembly and the ongoing Constitution Review Committee to strengthen the anti-defection law, particularly Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which allows defections on the grounds of internal party division.

It said the clause had been ‘grossly abused by politicians who manufacture or exaggerate internal crises to justify crossing over to the ruling side.’

CACSOD added, ‘We further call for a constitutional amendment that makes it mandatory for any elected official who wishes to defect from the party under which they were elected to first resign from office and seek a fresh mandate under their new platform.’

The group warned that the absence of opposition in the Assembly could erode accountability, stifle dissenting voices, and embolden impunity in governance.

It urged citizens to be vigilant and reject politicians who engage in ‘political carpet-crossing’ for personal gain.

‘Citizens must shine their eyes. We must no longer reward political carpet-crossers who prioritize personal gain over public service,’ the group said.

Reaffirming its commitment to defending democracy, the coalition stated, ‘Democracy loses its meaning when every voice in the legislature sings the same tune. For governance to serve the people, there must always be room for dissent, dialogue, and accountability.’

But in a swift reaction, the APC dismissed the criticism, describing the defections as a validation of the party’s progressive governance under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement signed by its Director, Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the party explained that both leaders have demonstrated a clear commitment to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The APC added that it rejected the notion that a political movement is a betrayal of democratic values, maintaining that in a competitive polity, elected representatives retain the right to choose the platform that best enables them to serve their constituents.

According to the party, to suggest otherwise is to stifle democracy and undermine the will of the people.

‘Also, we take umbrage with CACSOD’s assertion that the absence of opposition equates to the death of democracy. This is a myopic view that fails to recognize that democracy thrives on performance, accountability, and the consent of the governed. If political actors and parties fail to offer credible leadership, coherent programmes, or measurable results, they forfeit the confidence of their members and supporters.

‘We welcome our new members, the House Minority Leader, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu, Akure South 1, and Hon. Oluwatoyin Daodu, from Akoko South West 1, and pledged to treat them with dignity and equity. They will be mentored, supported, and given the platform to aspire to any position for which they are suitably qualified. Our doors are open to talent, integrity, and dedication,’ the statement read.

The party urged civil society and all well-meaning citizens to judge political developments by their substance and outcomes rather than alarmist rhetoric.

It, however, added that the people of the state deserve governance that works – practical, accountable, and results-oriented, stressing that APC remains committed to providing exactly that.

Nigeria’s first-ever podcast and storytelling festival, PodFest Naija – A Festival of Stories, made a landmark debut on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, drawing over 1,500 creators, storytellers, brands, and policymakers for a day of powerful conversations, cultural showcases, and innovation.

Curated by The Muvmnt Studio in partnership with Eventful, the festival delivered on its promise to bring Nigeria’s most influential voices together to celebrate storytelling, collaborate across industries, innovate new formats, and learn from leading voices shaping the future. From live podcast recordings to interactive brand activations, six themed stages, and a major masterclass on monetization, the festival became the cultural and creative heartbeat of Lagos for a day.

In her keynote address, Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, emphasised the growing importance of podcasting in amplifying Nigeria’s creative voice globally.

‘Podcasting has become one of the most powerful tools for projecting our soft power and amplifying Nigerian creativity to the world,’ the Minister stated. ‘It is a veritable medium that transcends borders, democratising how stories are told and who gets to tell them.’

She further highlighted podcasting as a strategic tool for youth engagement and job creation.

‘Our young people are not just listeners. They are creators. They are hosts. They are writers. They are sound engineers, researchers, and digital entrepreneurs. Everything that speaks to that value chain from the bottom to the top. I think podcasting covers everything. Mr. President is really committed to looking at how we can fortify the future of the young people. And the only way that we can do that is by absorbing as many young people into the job market as possible.’

Tosin Adefeko, Curator of PodFest Naija and CEO of AT3 Resources – The Muvmnt Agency, reflected on the festival’s journey and purpose:

‘When we started this journey, our vision was simple: to tell better stories. Over time, we realized that everyone was working in silos, and there was no platform bringing the tribe together. We knew something had to change.’

‘Podfest Naija was born out of that realization. It’s a festival of stories, a creative convergence designed to celebrate our voices, collaborate across communities, innovate in how stories are told, and learn from one another. Whether we like it or not, the podcast ecosystem is here to stay, and we intend to stand at the forefront of that movement.’

The festival’s lineup featured over 40 storytellers and cultural icons, including Chude Jideonwo, Tunde Onakoya, Adaora Mbelu, Rufai Oseni, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Masoyinbo, and many others, who led conversations that cut across generations, genres, and industries. Major brands, including Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank, UAC Foods, Bet9ja, Crown Flour Mills, and others, powered immersive activations throughout the venue, reinforcing the intersection between storytelling, culture, and brands.

One of the day’s most anticipated moments was the unveiling of ‘The Next Big Podcaster,’ an initiative by The Muvmnt Studio to spotlight emerging talent set to redefine the podcast space. Pearllie Hart was announced live on stage as the winner, positioning her as a podcaster to watch under The Muvmnt Studio’s spotlight.

As Nigeria cements its place in the global creative landscape, PodFest Naija stands as a rallying point for creators, policymakers, and brands to celebrate creativity, collaborate on ideas, innovate formats, and learn from shared experiences, shaping narratives that travel beyond borders.

A civil society organisation, the Niger Delta Rights Advocates (NDRA), has condemned the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) over what it described as an ‘unethical and misleading’ report alleging corruption against a public servant under the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Research and Documentation at NDRA, Dr. Chuks Alozie, accused FIJ of publishing a one-sided story that allegedly maligned Mr. Adagiri Ismail, a senior officer of the NCoS.

Alozie said FIJ’s online reports of October 6 and 8, 2025, portrayed a suspect currently facing trial as a victim and hero, in a manner inconsistent with the standards of professional journalism.

‘FIJ’s reports of October 6 and 8 were clear attempts at hoodwinking the public. They portrayed a suspected criminal standing trial before an FCT High Court (Charge No. CR/669/23) as a hero, which runs contrary to journalistic ethics,’ Alozie stated.

According to the NDRA, the case stemmed from an alleged act of impersonation and forgery of Mr. Ismail’s office documents.

The suspect, identified as Aliyu Raji, was said to have used forged letterheads and office insignia to obtain millions of naira through false pretences and fraudulent contract awards.

Alozie noted that the suspect was initially granted bail and subsequently approached FIJ for media coverage after filing a fundamental rights suit against the complainant and the police.

The court, however, reportedly dismissed the case and awarded ?1 million in costs against the applicant in favour of all respondents.

The NDRA accused FIJ of failing to exercise due diligence by not investigating all sides of the story or granting Mr. Ismail a right of reply before publication.

The group demanded an immediate retraction or corrigendum from the online platform, insisting that the reports breached the ethical codes governing responsible journalism.

‘While citizen journalism strengthens democracy, it must not be used as a tool for defamation or sedition. Defending the rights of an individual facing criminal prosecution should never come at the expense of truth, fairness, and balance’, Alozie warned.

The NDRA reaffirmed its commitment to media freedom but urged journalists and citizen reporters alike to uphold the principles of integrity and impartiality when handling sensitive corruption-related cases.

The European Union and the German Embassy in Abuja have launched the German-Nigerian Flare4Value project initiative aimed at tackling gas flaring in Nigeria.

The initiative is expected to unlock new economic opportunities through gas optimisation and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation.

It was unveiled during this year’s Green Diplomacy Week in Abuja.

Declaring the event open in Abuja, Head of the German-Nigerian Hydrogen Office, Kristina Fuerst said the initiative ‘marks a significant milestone in the German-Nigerian partnership and our joint commitment to transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.’

She added that ‘gas flaring reduction is not only a climate priority but a gateway to energy access, industrial growth, and sustainable development for Nigeria.’

Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Germany in Nigeria, Johannes Lehne, reiterated the significance of emission reduction.

Lehne said, ‘The strategic significance of gas flaring reduction represents both an environmental imperative and an economic opportunity.

‘By capturing and utilising flare gas, we not only cut emissions but also create value for power generation and industry.’

Speaking further, he emphasised that Flare4Value ‘reflects the strength of the German-Nigerian partnership and the EU’s wider commitment to supporting Nigeria’s leadership in climate action.’

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr Vitalis Obi noted that the Flare4Value initiative underscores Nigeria’s shared commitment to reducing emissions and unlocking the full potential of its gas resources.

He noted that, through partnerships such as this, Nigeria can transform flare gas into an engine for cleaner energy, industrial growth, and sustainable development.

The project is implemented under H2-diplo, a GIZ programme commissioned by the German Federal Foreign Office and financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI).

H2-diplo supports Germany’s international energy and climate diplomacy, partnering with countries to advance the use of green hydrogen in diversifying and decarbonising their economies.

Programme Manager for Energy, Circular Economy and Climate Change, Godfrey Ogbemudia said: ‘Reducing what goes into the atmosphere today is a responsibility we all share. It’s encouraging to see Nigeria’s flare-reduction efforts already yielding results; this project takes those gains even further.’

Ogbemudia, who represents the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS added that the initiative ‘isn’t only about environmental protection; it’s about creating new business opportunities through gas commercialisation and cleaner energy solutions that benefit people and the planet.

Nigeria is one of the world’s top seven gas-flaring countries, losing billions in potential revenue each year while contributing significantly to GHG emissions.

In 2022 alone, the country flared around 275 billion standard cubic feet of gas, emitting over 16 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

This not only exacerbates climate change but also contravenes Nigeria’s Climate Change Act (2021), which mandates strict carbon budgeting and emissions reduction.

The German-Nigerian Flare4Value initiative is designed to address this challenge head-on.

It focuses on reducing flare-gas emissions, improving gas utilisation, and aligning Nigeria’s oil and gas sector with its Energy Transition Plan.

A key innovation of the project is its exploration of flare gas-to-hydrogen pathways, turning waste into clean energy carriers while creating space for industrial growth.

Through structured dialogue, technical collaboration, and private-sector engagement, the project provides a high-level bilateral platform for Germany and Nigeria to deepen cooperation on climate action.

With its launch under the EU Green Diplomacy Week, it showcases the EU’s commitment to forging strong partnerships in multilateral decarbonisation efforts.

Nigerian partners include the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gas Aggregator Company of Nigeria (GACN), the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).

The project was formally introduced at a virtual kick-off meeting on 29 September, followed by last Thursday’s high-level event in Abuja.

A study tour to Germany is planned for October, bringing Nigerian public and private-sector actors together with German stakeholders.

The initiative will culminate in a multistakeholder conference in Abuja on 4 December 2025, where a discussion paper on flare-gas reduction will be launched alongside a B2B exchange platform for Nigerian and German businesses.

By linking flare-gas reduction with hydrogen development, the Flare4Value project bridges climate action and economic opportunity.

It supports Germany’s and the EU’s broader energy diplomacy while advancing Nigeria’s national priorities, reducing emissions through targeted gas recovery, creating new industrial and economic value, and strengthening Nigeria’s energy transition for a more resilient and diversified economy.