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  • FG needs to develop climate-smart food production calendar – UAC Foods 

    Calendar
    By Funmilola Gboteku
    Lagos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) Mr Oluyemi Oloyede, the Managing Director, UAC Foods Ltd. has urged the Federal Government to develop a national climate smart food production calendar to boost sustainability.
    Oloyede said this at the 10th Regional Food Science and Technology Summit/NIFST Day 2024 celebration on Thursday in Lagos.
    The theme of the event was:  “Attaining Sufficient, Safe and Healthy Food for Nigerians Through Food Science and Technology.”
    He noted that the country could no longer afford to plant only when it was rainy season.
    Oloyede stressed the need for development of effective systems for climate resilient crops varieties and animals due to global warming and climate change.
    He said it was necessary to build data from weather forecasting, early warning signs of flooding to effectively and efficiently manage the impacts of climate change on food and livestock production.
    “Nigeria has 34 million hectares of arable land where we produce some staple foods in large quantities and it must amplify and prioritise it to meet national requirements and export.
    “We are a large producer of cassava, yam, cocoyam, beans, melon seeds and we are among the largest producers of groundnuts,maize, rice and plantain.
    “Instead of trying to compete in wheat or sugar or milk, at least for a start, we should first scale where we have competitive advantages.
    “We need to increase acreage, support mechanisation, release improved seeds that will increase yields, subsidise scaled production and use some of these as  substitutes where we do not have competitive advantage, “he said.
    He also stressed the need to boost nutrition in children and young adults, noting that 32 per cent of children under five in Nigeria were malnourished.
    Oloyede noted that nowadays, most Nigerian households considered price, taste, sufficiency over and above nutrition, adding that this was responsible for the quality of food that were available in our markets and shelves.
    Citing an example, he said an average consumer wanted protein such as cow milk but because of the challenges of accessibility, the consumer had to step down from skimmed milk or full cream,  to non-dairy creamer.
    Oloyede explained that consumers now sacrificed nutrition ( protein levels as high as 30 per cent) for affordability (protein levels as low as two per cent)
    “We must view the current global, national and sub-national challenges as opportunities to develop plans to guarantee food security at all levels and this is everyone’s responsibility, including government and donor agencies.
    “As a country,  we cannot produce all foods, no country in the world does, hence we need to decide on what is to be produced and exported.
    “We must operate an open market that allows us to export and import.
    “Nigerians need to stop seeing imports as evil, especially when we are battling with food inflation and other countries are able to produce these foods cheaper,” he said.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NIFT also held an award ceremony and inter-school debate competition for secondary school students.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FOG/CHOM/JNC
    ============
    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • Foundation pledges technical support, training for Plateau electoral body

    Foundation pledges technical support, training for Plateau electoral body

    Support

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), has pledged to give technical support and training to the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), to enhance the credibility of elections.

    IFES Country Director, Mr Seray Jah, made the disclosure on Thursday in Jos, when he led a team on a visit to the Chairman and members of staff of PLASIEC.

    Jah said that apart from the PLASIEC, the foundation was also providing similar support to five other State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), one per geopolitical zone.

    The country director stated that the goal of IFES was to support the institutions through technology, technical assistance, capacity building, and training, as well as the promotion of gender equity and inclusion.

    According to him, the approach aims to ensure that the commissons conduct more widely accepted elections, ultimately achieving near perfection.

    “We are supporting the SIECs through the funding of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) from the UK.

    “It is very important for a nation to build strong local government elections because they are closer to the people.

    “Having been involved in this process for a while, we, along with our donors and ourselves as IFES, want to see more credibility in the elections, more trust by the voters, and more proactive engagement by stakeholders with the commission.

    “We also want to see more political willingness by the governments that oversee the SIECs. Achieving these goals would enhance not only the elections but also local development.

    “If people trust the elected officials, they are more likely to believe in them, which could lead to better governance,” he stated.

    Jah further explained that before selecting the SIECs, the foundation conducted a political economy analysis to determine which states would form the best partnerships with them, and those that would demonstrate willingness.

    The country director stated that they analysed all the states in the country and narrowed it down to Plateau, Kaduna, Lagos, Akwa Ibom, Gombe, and one more.

    PLASIEC Chairman, Mr Planji Cishak, said that the foremost intention of the commission was to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, particularly the citizens of Plateau.

    Cishak said PLASIEC’s goal was to ensure that Plateau citizens’ voices were heard and their votes counted in the choice of leaders at the grassroots.

    He stated that in pursuit of the commission’s mission to uphold democratic ideals in Plateau, PLASIEC intended to forge a robust partnership with media practitioners, political parties, security agencies, and development partners.

    The chairman emphasised that the IFES, YIAGA Africa, civil society organisations, and all critical stakeholders were crucial to the success of their assignment.

    He lauded IFES for picking PLASIEC for its support in the north-central geopolitical zone of the country.

    Cishak said the PLASIEC leadership would identify and address challenges, implement innovative solutions, and maintain an open-door policy to rebuild trust and restore hope in the electoral process among Plateau citizens.

    “Together, let’s raise the bar and ensure that PLASIEC sets a standard of integrity and fairness that serves as a beacon for others,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
    ========

    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Police nab 5 suspected Kidnappers , 1 car snatcher in Kaduna

    Police nab 5 suspected Kidnappers , 1 car snatcher in Kaduna
    Arrest
    By Muhammad Tijjani
    Kaduna, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Kaduna State  has arrested five suspected Kidnappers and one suspected car snatcher.
    The Command’s Spokesperson ASP Mansir Hassan confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna.
    Hassan said, ” On June. 15,  at about 18:10 hours, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Maigana received intelligence from a concerned citizen regarding a group of kidnappers planning to collect ransom money from the relatives of their victim.
    He said that the DPO acting swiftly mobilized his patrol team and some members of the local vigilante group to the location.
    “The operation resulted in the successful arrest of the suspects, Shuaiabu Bala, 23, from Malanta, Gimba Village, and Safinu Musa, 22,  from Bugau Village, Anchau, Kubau Local Government Area (LGA) of the state” Hassan said.
    He said investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the kidnapping gang.
    Hassan also said that a significant breakthrough in fighting kidnapping was made on June 17 with the arrest of three other suspected kidnappers.
     “Acting on credible intelligence received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Tafa, it was reported that some suspected kidnappers were sighted roaming around Tafa Town.
    “At about 1700 hours, the DPO immediately mobilized and led a surveillance team, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) of Tafa to the scene.
    “As a result of this swift action, three suspected kidnappers were arrested and brought to the station.
    “The suspects have been identified as Sani Amadu  17,  Sani Lawal, 20, and Aliyu Usman  22, all residents of Dadin Kowa, Tafa LGA , Niger State.
    “During the course of the investigation, incriminating evidence, including pictures and videos of banditry activities, was discovered on their cell phones.
    ” Upon completion of the preliminary investigation, the case will be transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further action,” he said.
    Hassan also disclosed that on June. 13,
     at about 1600 hours, intelligence was received that a criminal element was sighted at Kachia Road by the Railway Station Roundabout in Kaduna with a motor vehicle strongly suspected to be stolen.
    He said acting on the information, a team from the Anti-Car Theft Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) was swiftly mobilised to the scene.
    “The operatives arrested one Chinago Harrison, male, of Manya Street, Ungwan Romi, Kaduna.
    The operatives  recovered  a black Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep, 2013 model, with registration number KTU 886 JD, chassis number JTMHY7AJXD4017043, and engine number 3UR3151879.
    He said  preliminary investigations have revealed that the vehicle was stolen from Sir Dingshegyuan Plastic Processing and Manufacturing Company Limited, located at the Interchange in Shagamu, Ogun State.
    “The suspect will be handed over to Ogun State Police Command for further investigations, “Hassan said.
    The command’s  spokesman said that the Police in the state remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
    Hassan quoted the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ali Dabigi, as urging the public to continue to support it by promptly reporting any suspicious activities around their environment to the police. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    TJ/AOS
    =======
    Edited by Bayo Sekoni

  • Rivers Crisis: Group urges NASS to amend LG laws

    Crisis

    By Precious Akutamadu
    Port Harcourt, June 20, 2024 (NAN) A Civil Society Organisation, the Coalition of Rivers State Leaders of Thoughts, has urged the National Assembly to holistically amend the laws governing local government administration in the country.
    The group’s Convener, Chief Sunnie Chukumele, said at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Thursday that the amendment would streamline issues surrounding local government administration.
    “This call is as a result of the ongoing crisis over local government councils tenure elongation in the Rivers.
    “The crisis may throw the state into anarchy if left unchecked. So, something has to be done quickly,” he said.
    Chukumele also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to wade into the situation in the state to avoid a total breakdown of law and order.
    The convener called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure thorough investigation on the crisis with a view to prosecuting the perpetrators.
    He urged the judiciary to be upright in deciding matters concerning the crisis that were currently before the courts.
    “As the last hope of the common man, the uprightness of the judiciary on the matters before the courts will help to enthrone lasting peace,” he said.
    Chukumele said that Gov. Siminalayi Fubara acted rightly by appointing caretaker committees following the expiration of the tenure of the 23 council leaderships.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    PA/FON/AZU
    ==========
    Edited by Florence Onuegbu and Azubuike Okeh

  • Police partner NFIU to curb money laundering, terrorism financing

    Police partner NFIU to curb money laundering, terrorism financing

    Laundering

    By Monday Ijeh

    Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, on Thursday said the Police had partnered with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) to curb money laundering and terrorism financing in the country.

    Egbetokun said this in Abuja at a meeting with Strategic Police Managers, consisting of officers from the rank of Commissioners of Police and above.

    He said the Nigeria police force had a crucial role to play in combating money laundering and terrorism financing in the country.

    “To strengthen our capabilities and demonstrate our commitment to combating financial crimes, we have established dedicated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) section at the Force Criminal Investigation Department,” he said.

    He said that establishment of the section would be replicated at all Zonal and State Commands nationwide.

    Egbetokun said the unit would enhance the capacity of the force to tackle the menace as well as investigate and prosecute financial crimes and terrorism financing.

    “By working together, we will improve our investigations, prosecutions, and ultimately, convict perpetrators.

    “I urge you all to embrace this initiative at your various duty posts, by assisting the take-off of the section,” he said.

    Egbetokun said the country had over the past 12 months, faced significant challenges of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery.

    He said the force had remained resilient and steadfast in its mandate despite the threats.

    The I-G commended the senior officers for their dedication and hard work through exemplary performance across various duty stations.

    “Our efforts to grow capacity, improve services and strengthen relationships with sister services and the public have yielded positive results in our fight against crime nationwide.

    “This milestone provides us an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, acknowledge the challenges and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring safety and security of Nigerians.

    “Today, we will evaluate our internal security operations and activities over the past year, highlighting significant achievements and addressing the major challenges faced.

    “We will also deliberate on security plans to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in achieving smooth gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo State later this year,” he said. (NAN)

    IMC/CHOM/IAA

    ===============

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Isaac Aregbesola

     

     

     

     

  • Ojelabi mourns ex-Lagos APC Welfare Officer

    Late ex Lagos APC Welfare Officer

     

    Ojelabi mourns ex-APC Welfare Officer, Alhaja Ramota Bankole

    Death

    By Adeyemi Adeleye
    Lagos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the APC Chairman in Lagos State, has expressed sadness over the death Alhaja  Ramota Bankole,a former Welfare Secretary of the party in the state .

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)reports that Bankole died in Mecca,  Saudi Arabia after performing the  2024 Hajj.

    In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) the APC Chairman described Bankole’s death as devastating and unfortunate.

    Ojelabi said that the late politician was a very resourceful and dependable party member,  who implemented all tasks given to her diligently and satisfactorily.

    “On behalf of the entire members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, we condole with the Bankole Family on the demise of Alhaja Ramota, the former Welfare Officer of our party here in Lagos.

    “We pray that the Lord will give the family, the APC as a whole and all the loved ones she left behind the fortitude to be bear the loss, ” the APC boss said.

    Ojelabi said the memories of late Bankole would linger on because of her great contributions to the party at the state and at the grassroots level.

    The party chieftain prayed that the Almighty Allah would grant her Al-Janat Firdaus. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    AYO/BHB

    Edited by Buhari Bolaji

  • Counter-insurgency: Nigerian army puts to operation 2 Bell UH1 helicopters

    Counter-insurgency: Nigerian army puts to operation 2 Bell UH1 helicopters

    Aviation

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 20,2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Army on Thursday,  put to operation two new Bell UH1 Helicopters to herald its aviation unit and to strengthen its counter-insurgency operations.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two helicopters arrived the Nigeria Police Air wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 4:37 p.m.

    In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said the journey to realising the dream of army aviation had come to reality with delivery of the two helicopters.

    Lagbaja said the renewed drive to have an aviation wing started in 2014 when the former COAS, retired Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, established and operationalised the army aviation coordination office with a 10-year implementation plan segmented into three phases.

    “I am glad that, as conceptualised 10 years later, we have today,  taken delivery of our first set of platforms.

    “The journey, as predicted by the initial dreamers, has not been easy but here we are today by the grace of God, realising our dream.

    “We are new to this business, and as newcomers, we must acknowledge our forerunners like the NAF, NN, and the NPF.

    “We are on our learning curve in the aviation business, and we hope it will be a pleasant experience that will enhance our operational successes,” he said.

    Lagbaja said the new helicopters would be a game-changer for the army in its operational activities, adding that the platforms would be used for casualty evacuation, reconnaissance and surveillance.

    He said new platform would ensure flexibility in providing support to  troops in the field in terms of casualty evacuation, supply and insertion of troops in critical areas.

    The Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, Brig.-Gen. Musa Alkali, said the introduction of the advanced air platforms marked a new chapter in the army’s operational readiness and ability to respond swiftly and effectively to diverse security challenges.

    Alkali said the platforms were not just an addition to army fleet but a leap forward in its quest for excellence and efficiency toward getting its aviation unit operational.

    He said the journey had been defined by rigorous planning, meticulous execution, and unwavering support of the Nigerian army leadership and partners.

    According to him, the acquisition of these air platforms is a clear demonstration of our resolve to continuously improve and adapt in the face of evolving security landscapes.

    “These platforms will significantly bolster the reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities, thereby enhancing our overall operational effectiveness.

    “As we integrate these platforms into our operations, let us also remember that the true strength of our aviation lies in the skilled and courageous personnel who operate and maintain these machines.

    “Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise are the bedrock upon which our success is built,” he said.

    The Consultant, retired Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onwuamaegbu, commended the leadership of the Nigerian army for making the aviation unit a reality.

    He said the Nigerian army invested in him so much to become an aviation professional but could not render the service to the army because of the absence of aviation unit until his retirement.

    “The army invested so much in me in this aspect of military operations but unfortunately, I didn’t use those skills when I was in service.

    “It was a great pleasure a few months ago when I heard that the Nigerian army was about to operationalise the aviation corps, and I met the Chief of Army Staff, and he trusted me to be involved.

    “These platforms will form the foundation for the growth of the Nigerian army,” he said.

    NAN reports that the COAS had in 2023, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu, had approved  acquisition of the initial 12 MD 530F Cayuse Attack Helicopters for actualisation of army aviation.

    He said the acquisition of the new attack helicopters was part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to boost  operational capabilities of the army aviation to appropriately respond to contemporary and emerging security threats.

    The attack helicopters are still being expected. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/CHOM/SH

    =============

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Sadiya Hamza

     

  • Aremu commiserates with Saraki on mother’s demise

    Condolence

    By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

    Ilorin, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Director General,  Michael Imoudu National Institute of Labour Studies (MINILS),  Mr Issa Aremu, has commiserated with Dr Bukola Saraki, a former president of the senate, on the death of his mother.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Chief Florence Saraki died on Tuesday, June 18, at the age of 89.

    “On behalf of the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, the Management and Staff of MINILS, I hereby convey our deepest condolence to you on the demise of your beloved mother,” Aremu said in a letter made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin.

    The D-G also commiserated with the extended Saraki family and the Ilorin community on the loss of the cherished matriarch.

    He described the deceased as a pillar of strength and a beacon of love within her community.

    “We are consoled that her positive legacy will be remembered with respect and admiration.

    “May Almighty God grant her soul repose and give the family fortitude to bear the loss,” Aremu said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    FATY/CHOM/AOS

    ================

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Bayo Sekoni

     

     

     

     

  • NIPR inducts 605 new members, seeks end to quackery

    NIPR inducts 605 new members, seeks end to quackery

    By Tosin Kolade

    Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has formally inducted 605 new members into the profession, emphasising the importance of professionalism and an end to quackery.

    This was the thrust at the Diamond Anniversary Special Induction of the institute in Abuja on Thursday.

    The President of the NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, stated that the initiative was part of efforts to ensure that only qualified and properly trained individuals represented  the public relations profession.

    This, he said would enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the practice.

    Neliaku noted that relationship was the hallmark of public relations, hence the need for new inductees to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity.

    He emphasised that members should avoid practices or behaviors that could harm the reputation of the Institute or the public relations profession.

    Neliaku stressed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of accuracy and truth in all professional activities.

    He urged members to respect core values and uphold the ethical principles that underpin the public relations field.

    He highlighted the critical role of maintaining public trust and credibility, reminding members that their actions reflected  not only on themselves but also on the entire profession.

    Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice-Chairman of the NIPR Governing Board, underscored the event’s importance, noting its adaptation to contemporary needs and its alignment with the institute’s diamond anniversary celebrations.

    Dandaura highlighted several key aspects of 2024 Hybrid Induction Format which for the first time, incorporated and allowed greater participation and reflected modern event-hosting practices.

    According to him, the Diamond Anniversary of NIPR held special significance as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the NIPR, adding historical weight to the proceedings.

    “A total of 605 new members were inducted, with 353 joining online and 198 attending in person. This reflects the institute’s significant growth and expanded reach.

    “Highlights of our anniversary celebration is a seminar on Public Relations, Value Orientation, and Economic Transformation, aimed at professional development.

    “We will also be hosting a Dinner and Recognition- An evening event chaired by General Yakubu Gowon, honoring distinguished icons in the field”.

    The vice chairman said these activities were  designed to celebrate the NIPR’s contributions to national development over the past 60 years, while also fostering professional growth and public engagement in the field of public relations.

    Mr Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, expressed his delight at participating in a significant event celebrating the 60th anniversary of the institute.

    He described the occasion as a milestone and emphasised the importance of celebrating 60  years of the institution’s impactful existence.

    He commended the institute for its growth and influence over the past six decades, noting its substantial contributions to shaping public communication narratives.

    Ali commended everyone involved in making the celebration a success, emphasising the News Agency of Nigeria’s alignment with the NIPR in upholding factual reporting as a cornerstone of their mission.

    Ali underscored the agency’s commitment to maintaining credibility and authenticity in its reporting, amidst the prevalence of fake news in today’s digital age.

    Mr Baba Ndace, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), representing the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Malagi, noted the dual responsibility of the  newly inducted members of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

    Ndace stressed the importance of speaking positively and forcefully about the country.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria, as recognised by the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Tinubu  but highlighted ongoing efforts to address these issues.

    He urged the inductees not to contribute to negative narratives about the nation, asserting that while no country was perfect, Nigeria’s beauty and potential should be the focal points.

    He underscored the critical role of the new NIPR members in collaborating with the Ministry of Information to restore trust in public discourse.

    He mentioned that one of the ministry’s primary goals has been to rebuild public confidence in communication, fostering trust in institutions and media outlets.

    Ndace called on the inductees to take pride in their nation and contribute to its positive image, noting the NIPR as a platform for mentorship and professional growth.

    Goodwill messages were given by representatives of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, President, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo, Chairman, House Committee on Public Affairs, Rep. Rotimi Akintunde.

    Others are the Nigerian Television Authority, Africa Independent Television among others. (NAN)

    TAK/YGA

    =========

    Edited by Gabriel Yough

    ===

  • Climate change: Oby Ezekwesili calls on youths to plant trees

     

    Oby Ezekwesili alongside the Climate Action Africa and Nigerian Conservation Foundation members at the tree planting session at Lekki Conservation Centre.

    Tree
    By Henry Oladele
    Lagos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The former Minister of Solid Minerals,  Dr Oby Ezekwesili, has called on  Nigerians, especially the younger generation, to preserve nature by planting trees.
    Ezekwesili said this a tree-planting programme organised by Climate Action Africa (CAA) in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), on Thursday, in Lagos.
    “When people hear about climate change, they believe it is a distant word which does not have any effect on Nigerians.
    “When people hear the word ‘climate change’, they think it is a distant word that doesn’t affect us at all but it is already affecting us.
    “It is affecting our farmers, as our agriculture production and productivity are low. It is affecting us in terms of wildlife and some of the insecurity that you see because people are dislocated in a way that disrupts their lives.
    “The challenges of climate change are here with us, the flooding and desertification, these are all the things that are happening.
    “Now, God has given us the power to do things differently and to counteract some of these things that are affecting us and robbing us of our resilience, productivity and living standard,” she said.
    She commended the CAA and the NCF for the initiative aimed at tackling climate change challenges.
    “They have a programme to get one billion trees planted across the country. The  CAA has an agenda to plant one billion trees in 20 years.

     

    Oby Ezekwesili planting a tree at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos.

    “It is the best demonstration of Africa setting the agenda and not allowing just outsiders to talk about it.

    “Africa must do what it must do in order to ensure the resilience of its own continent,” she said.
    She, however, called on the media to educate the populace on the need to care about nature.
    “Chopping off trees because you want to build a house is a wrong approach.
    “Don’t think of your own immediate satisfaction when you are making a decision, you have to think of the long-lasting impact that decision you are making in the matter of nature is preservation.
    “You have to nurture nature. it’s been given to us, spread the news, plant and preserve a tree,” she said.
    She said that it was of great significance that two African organisations, the CAA through its forum is partnering with NCF to bring attention to the importance of the ecosystem.
    “This is a great idea, ensuring that trees, wildlife and everything that has to do with climate resilience is brought to the public attention,” she said.
    The Executive Director, CAA, Miss Oluchi Mbah, during her remarks, said the partnership with NCF was important to ensure where and what trees to plant.
    “We have always wanted to contribute to conservation. It is not just planting trees but planting the right tree which is why we partnered with NCF,” Mbah said.
    The Director-General, NCF, Dr Joseph Onoja, commended the CAA for the partnership, noting that he looked forward to a long-lasting partnership with the organisation.
    Onoja represented by Mr Uchenna Achunine, Director of Business Development & Communications, said the NCF had been providing leadership to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
    “We have worked with various government to help preserve our environment.
    “We are planting some trees here while we will also plant like 100 trees in some schools soon.
    “Since we started the project of tree planting in schools, we go to schools to teach them how to plant and take care of  trees. We also teach them about recycling and others,” he said.
    The Project Manager, LCC, Mr Stephen Aina, while speaking with journalists, said the planting of trees was to exemplify the core message of conservation as entrenched in the story of creation.
    “We have brought in trees of different species to plant here within LCC and that will be scaled up else where within Lagos metropolis, specifically Epe.
    “Trees are essential to our living as humans and if the trees and the plants are no more that means automatically it means man himself will be no more because plants are the foundation for our existence,” he said. (NAN)
    HOB/JNC
    =======
    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma