Blog

  • APC accepts Vice-Chair resignation, says it remains focused

    Resignation

    By Nefishetu Yakubu

     

    Benin, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo says it has accepted the resignation of Chief Francis Inegbeniki from his position as the state Vice-Chairman, Edo Central.

    In a statement issued in Benin on Tuesday by the state party chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, APC respected his decision and wished him well in his future political endeavours.

    Tenebe noted that Inegbeniki had been a loyal and dedicated member of APC since its inception.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Inegbeniki resigned from his vice-chairmanship and membership positions on Friday.

    He cited the recent developments in the local and state chapters of the party as conflicting with his principles and values.

    Meanwhile, Tenebe added that Inegbeniki worked tirelessly to promote the ideals of the APC and advance the interests of members and supporters across the state.

    “His contributions to the growth and development of the party cannot be overstated, and we are grateful for the time he spent with us,” he said.

    He, however, said APC must now look forward to the future by focusing efforts on liberating the state from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government.

    According to him, the people of Edo and the APC are ready for change.

    The chairman said that APC remained the only party committed to delivering the change desperately needed by the state.

    “Our party’s candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, and his running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, will lead the joint push to rescue and return the state to Edo people.

    “Both federal legislators come with a bold and ambitious five-point agenda that will prioritize infrastructure development and the empowerment of our people that the PDP has since neglected.

    “The determination to build a better future for our state, one that will guarantee prosperity, security, and opportunity for all, has whet APC’s desire to liberate Edo State,” he said.

    He, therefore, called on all APC members and supporters in and outside Edo to remain steadfast and committed to the party.

    “We must work together to mobilize our communities, engage with our fellow citizens, and spread the message of hope and change that the APC represents,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    NY/MAS

    Edited by Moses Solanke

  • Democracy Day: Gov. Sani pardons 110 convicts

    Democracy Day: Gov. Sani pardons 110 convicts

    Celebration

    By Hussaina Yakubu

    Kaduna, June 11, 2024 (NAN) In commemoration of Democracy Day and his one year in office, Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has announced the release of 110 convicts from the Kaduna Custodial Centre.

    Speaking at a ceremony at the centre on Tuesday in Kaduna, Sani said 22 from 110 the convicts were pardoned while the remaining 88 were those under option of fine ranging from N10,000 and above.

    “ This is in accordance with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to grant mercy to a citizen.

    “Some of these convicts also had compensations to pay to their victims, ranging from N150,000 and above, with a few having both fines and compensation elements,’’ he said.

    The governor  further reiterated the need for the people to be law abiding and enjoined them to desist from criminal activities.

    He, however, pledged his administration’s commitment to ensure justice and fairness in governance, adding that his government would  focus on providing support to the poor.

    Sani said, “In my one year in office, I have had the opportunity to pardon deserving inmates during the Oct. 1st, 2023 Independence Day and the Jan. 1st, 2024 New Year celebrations.

    “Today, I am here in person to express my commitment to a reformatory system that fosters positive change.”

    He also decried the increasing number of inmates that were either awaiting or undergoing trial as worrisome, suggesting the need for more efficiency in the judicial process.

    Sani urged the freed convicts to reciprocate the gesture by becoming good citizens.

    In his speech, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), appealed to Chief Judges in the states to ensure that Chief Magistrates were visiting police stations monthly.

    “This is crucial in preventing unnecessary arrests and the congestion of the custodial centres.

    “Magistrates should grant bail, order the release of detainees or ensure that cases are taken to the Courts,’’ Falana advised.

    He also appealed to the state governments to invest in correctional facilities, commending Sani for releasing the convicts.

    Earlier, Isa Mohammed, Controller, National Correctional Service, Kaduna State Command, hailed Sani  for the gesture, adding that the release would reduce pressure on the overstretched facility.

    He appealed to the state government to support the centre with operational vehicles to convey inmates to the Courts.

    ” We need an 18-seater bus for transporting special class inmates and solar-powered solutions for the custodial centre,’’ he said.

    Cyril Inawo, who spoke on behalf of the freed inmates, thanked  the governor for his generosity and pledged that they would be good ambassadors in the society.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    HUM/AH/BRM

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

    Edited by Abdul Hassan/Bashir Rabe Mani

     

     

  • 5, 000 traders to lose shops following Kano govt quit notice

    5, 000 traders to lose shops following Kano govt quit notice

    Traders

    By Aminu Garko

    Kano, June 11,2024( NAN) No fewer than 5,000 traders around Idi mosque area of Kano would lose their shops following quit notice served them by Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA).

    The chairman of the traders association, Yakubu Muhammad, said this on Tuesday during a news conference.

    KNUPDA had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the traders at the mosque located on IBB Way in the Kano metropolis to vacate the area or face the wrath of the law.

    Muhammad recalled that the place was allocated to them over 18 years ago by the late Galadima of Kano, Alhaji Tijjani Hashim, through the Emirate Council.

    “The place was allocated to our members to check the various criminal activities such phone snatching and other immortal activities being perpetrated at the places’’, he said.

    He said previous administrations in the state had found it necessary to allow the traders to continue to operate in the area.

    “We are many here, mostly youths, how can you attempt to separate these guys from their businesses, you know this will portend danger for the state,” he said.

    Muhammad said traders did not understand why the government was sending packing even has they were law abiding and contributed to the state’s internally generated revenue.

    “We are still trying to come to terms with the exact offense we committed that prompted KNUPDA to chase us from where we run our lawful businesses to fend for our family.

    “We supported this government. We voted for it during the 2023 election. The best empowerment this government can give us is to allow us to continue with our businesses at the Masallacin Idi,” he said.

    He urged Governor Abba Yusuf to intervene and save their businesses from looming ruins.

    When contacted a source at the KNUPDA who pleaded anonymity confirmed that the agency has ordered the traders to vacate the place because they were illegally occupying the space.

    “KNUPDA feels that the traders did not seek permission from it before starting business there. That is why the authority issued the quit notice. They are illegally operating at the place.” said the source. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    AAG/KUA

    =========

    Edited by Uche Anunne

  • Nigeria’s 12 oil bid round will be transparent – FG

     

    Bidding

    By Yunus Yusuf

    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has expressed the commission’s determination to conduct Nigeria’s 2024  bid round in a transparent manner.

     

    Mr Gbenga Komolafe, the Chief Executive of the commission, gave the assurance on Tuesday during the 2024 Pre-bid conference in Lagos.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is, “Unveiling Nigerian Energy Development Strategies: 2024 Licensing Round”.

     

    He said that the bid would be in accordance with Section 76 (1) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    Komolafe said said that Nigeria is an attractive jurisdiction for investment, adding that the country has a stable regime, driven by laws.

    According to him, Nigeria is a stable political environment that encourages businesses in a conducive atmosphere.

    “The 2024 bidding round is meant for investors with financial capacity and technical competence.

    “In the past, the award of oil blocks culminated to the non-development of over 90 per cent of marginal fields, thus denying the federal government of reaping the intended benefits.

    “This is because such awards were not based on technical and financial considerations,” he said.

    The NUPRC boss said that the recent Presidential Executive Orders issued were aimed at improving the efficiency and attractiveness of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

    He said that it would culminate in further increasing the nation’s oil and gas reserves.

    He added that as at April, it was estimated that Nigeria’s oil reserve was at 37.5 billion barrels of crude oil and condensate reserves, and 209.26 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves.

    He said that the commission had engaged in several roadshows, held in Houston U.S., Miami, London and Paris, among others.

    “We are not just a regulator, but a business enabler. We urge stakeholders to participate in the exercise.

    “It will enable us unprecedented opportunity to unlock Nigeria’s vast hydrocarbon potential, attract investment and propel our nation towards greater economic prosperity and shared prosperity,” he stated.

    He said each block had been chosen for its potential to bolster the nation’s reserve and economic posterity.

    Komolafe said that the total number of blocks were 12 as at planning stage.

    “But they were later able to gather data to offer more oil blocks. So, it is increasing the number of blocks and the details willl be made available on the portal,” Komolafe said.

    The NUPRC boss also said that the commission had issued a licensing round guideline and published the grand plan.

    Komolafe said that the blocks on offer have extensive 2D and 3D seismic coverage including logic and analog data.

    According to him, the objectives of the exercise are; to grow oil, gas reserves, to boost production, to enhance Nigerian content development and attract investment among others.

    He told prospective investors that  notwithstanding, the progression of energy transition, fossil fuel would continue to play a key role in the energy provider globally.

    The NUPRC boss said that there were plans to also conclude the 2022 block auctions alongside the 2024 oil bid round, while it had offered seven oil blocks in 2022.

    He claimed that investors spend less in exploration and production to produce oil in Nigeria because of the depth of the wells.

    According to him, the bid round is scheduled to last for nine months, with details on the portal.

    He expressed optimism that investors would choose Nigeria, noting that the nation has a stable democracy with a location close to the coastline of 900 meters.

    “Nigeria’s has ease of access to the Europe, American market, attractive fiscal regime; effective regulatory regime; presence of IOCs with confidence in Nigeria; ease of discovery and high productivity, among others.

    Also, the Executive Director of Schlumberger, Dr Nosa Omorodion, said, “This is an opportunity for NUPRC to demonstrate that Nigeria is ready for business.”

    He also said that integrity remained important while ensuring that things were done according to the rules.

    He stressed that corporate governance and competency were key.

    He said that the new bloc that would be placed should be published and made open for perspectives investors to see.

    Mr Hans Nijkamp, Gas and Commercial Director, Shell E&P Africa, said: “Shell has been in Nigeria since 1937 and we are ready to stay for a very long time.

    Noting that the deepwater is the company’s ‘playground’ for the future, Hans said Nigeria is currently on track.

    He added, “The fiscal regulatory framework makes it look like Nigeria is already in the future.”

    He explained that the company is determined to focus on oil and gas in the deepwater and taking the gas to the domestic market through the NLNG.

    According to him, the PIA is a groundbreaking moment, as it has improved things, significantly, in the sector.

    He, however, urged the government to address in the area of non-associated gas.

    “The PIA and the Executive Order signed by Mr President together makes Nigeria more competitive,” he said.

    NAN also reports that about 300 participants attended the pre-oil bid round conference. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    YO/AWA
    =========

    Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

  • Expert seeks policies to address marine issues, ocean conversation

    Ocean
    By Henry Oladele
    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Director, International Ocean Institute (IOI), Mr Akanbi Williams, has called for enhanced international agreement and policies to address marine issues and ocean conservation.
    Williams said this at the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) on Tuesday in Lagos in commemoration of the 2024 World Ocean Day (WOD).
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the WOD with the theme: ‘Awaken New Depths,’ was organised by the IOI in collaboration with the NIOMR.
    The WOD was set aside by the United  Nations and celebrated every June 8.
    He said that nations, organisations, and individuals must work together to protect and restore our oceans.
    According to him, the ocean covered 71 per cent of the planet’s surface and plays a crucial role in sustaining life on earth.
    “The health of our ocean is a global issue that requires global cooperation.
    “Nations, organisations, and individuals must work together, sharing knowledge, resources, and strategies to protect and restore our oceans.
    “Also, they must support and strengthen international agreements and policies aimed at ocean conservation.
    “Also engaging in collaborative projects that address transboundary marine issues and promoting the exchange of scientific data and best practices across borders are essential for
    fostering global collaboration,” he said.
    Williams noted that the ocean regulates the climate, provides oxygen.
    He added that the ocean a vital source of food and livelihood for billions of people was faced with unprecedented threats from pollution among others.
    “Our oceans face unprecedented threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
    “To “awaken new depths,” we must first awaken to the reality of these challenges.
    “We need to educate ourselves and others about the ocean’s significance and the perils it faces.
    “Promoting ocean literacy programs in schools and communities, utilising media and social platforms to disseminate factual critical information are all vital steps towards this goal.
    “As we celebrate WOD, let us reflect on our profound connection to the oceans and the responsibility we share in protecting them,” he said.
    Dr Awwal Bamanga, the guest lecturer who spoke on the topic: ‘Blue Economy: Balancing Economy and Ocean Health’, said that everyone had a stake in the ocean.
    Bamanga added that the ocean needed to be managed from over exploitation and pollution.
    “The ocean has long been an economic force to reckon with.
    “The 2015 briefing puts the value of key ocean assets at over $24 trillion with two third of that based on assets that require healthy and productive ocean.
    “Infact based on gross marine product, the ocean may be considered the world’s seventh largest economy.
    “By efficient management, the sustainable exploitation of resources in the oceans, seas, lakes and rivers also known as blue economy would contribute up to $1.5 trillion to the global economy,” he said.
    Bamanga who said that the ocean, in spite of its importance, was still under intense pressure from local and climate related factors.
    “Local factors such as over fishing, coastal overdevelopment, situation and pollution from sewage and runoff threaten to diminish coastal resources and jeopardising the economic viability of the tourism product.
    “Climate change problems are manifested through land loss, beach erosion and damage to reefs,” he said.
    He added that the ocean had been threatened by the consequences of climate change as a result of a continual increase in atmospheric carbon emissions.
    Speaking on blue economy, Bamanga described it as a concept that seeks to promote economic growth, social inclusion and preservation or improvement of livelihoods, at the same time ensuring environmental sustainability.
    He said that effective collaborations must be between the private and public stakeholders within the maritime sector to achieve the blue economy.
    “The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency must guarantee zero tolerance for non- compliance with maritime safety and security standards in order to eliminate substandard shipping in Nigeria.
    “It is really commendable that Nigerian leaders and institutions have recognised the need for us to harness our blue economy.
    “It must be recognised, however, that the appropriate strategies must be in place to actualise this dream.
    “This is the focus of this latter to essay which seeks to propose means and methods through which Nigeria may actually actualise the dream of a blue economy,” he said.
    Earlier, the Executive Director, NIOMR, Prof. Abiodun Sule, in his opening speech, said the theme was a call to action of the vast unexplored potential that the sea holds.
    Represented by Dr Obatola Ochwuko, he said that NIOMR had always been at the fore front of ocean research and conservation.
    “Today’s celebration features a series of activities designed to engage, educate and inspire.
    “As we celebrate the WOD, let us remember that our actions today will determine the future of our oceans.
    “Let us pledge to awaken new depths of knowledge, innovation and commitment.
    “Together we can make a difference and ensure our oceans remain vibrant, resilient and bountiful for generations to come,” he said.
    NAN reports that some schools were given prizes for their craft competition in commemoration for the WOD. (NAN)
    HOB/JNC
    ========
    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • FG approves N25bn for labs, workshops upgrade in tertiary institutions

    Upgrade

    By Funmilayo Adeyemi

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Government has approved the sum of N25 billion for the upgrade of laboratories and workshops in public universities, polytechnics and colleges of education (Technical).

    The Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja, at the inauguration of a 55-member committee of TETFund National Research Fund and Screening (NRFS&MC).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event also featured the inauguration of 48 committee members of the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) of the Fund.

    Echono explained that the Board of Trustees of the Fund set up the NRF Screening and Monitoring Committee (NRFS&MC), charged with the responsibility for implementing and administering the intervention.

    He said in 2020, the Committee carried out a review of the three thematic areas of the NRF research spectrum and incorporated emerging issues of national developmental challenges requiring innovative solutions.

    “We undertook an assessment of what the requirements are to meet the change.

    “And one of the things we discovered was that we have been addressing the issue around accessing and providing infrastructure to facilitate admissions of Nigerians who undertake programmes in our tertiary institutions.

    “Over time, due to our poor maintenance culture, we tend to neglect the issue of quality in terms of the equipment that we have in our laboratories, whether they are functional in terms of the workshop,” he said.

    Echono added that another N5 billion was also approved for skills related equipment in the polytechnics.

    He urged the Polytechnics to identify between three and five skills areas and use the opportunity to mop up Nigerians from the streets

    He said that through the teaching of basic skills,, people would be able to fend for themselves and as well contribute to the economy.

    Earlier, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman while inaugurating the committees, urged the academia to get involved in contributing to development of the nation through their cutting edge researches.

    Mamman said there had been a major shift by the present government to ensure tertiary institutions played its role in research, innovation and teaching.

    “Universities and scholars have so much to do to make sure their research contribute to their personal growth and growth of the nation.

    He reiterated the commitment if the administration to reskilling the education sector from primary to tertiary institutions in order to requip the youths with required skills (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).

    FAK/OIF/ROT

    ===========
    Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Rotimi Ijikanmi

     

     

    n tertiary institutions

    Upgrade

    By Funmilayo Adeyemi

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Government has approved the sum of N25 billion for the upgrade of laboratories and workshops in public universities, polytechnics and colleges of education (Technical).

    The Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja,  at the inauguration of a 55-member committee of TETFund National Research Fund and Screening (NRFS&MC).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event also featured the inauguration of 48 committee members of the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) of the Fund.

    Echono explained that the Board of Trustees of the Fund set up the NRF Screening and Monitoring Committee (NRFS&MC), charged with the responsibility for implementing and administering the intervention.

    He said in 2020, the Committee carried out a review of the three thematic areas of the NRF research spectrum and incorporated emerging issues of national developmental challenges requiring innovative solutions.

    “We undertook an assessment of what the requirements are to meet the change.

    “And one of the things we discovered was that we have been addressing the issue around accessing and providing infrastructure to facilitate admissions of Nigerians who undertake programmes in our tertiary institutions.

    “Over time, due to our poor maintenance culture, we tend to neglect the issue of quality in terms of the equipment that we have in our laboratories, whether they are functional in terms of the workshop,” he said.

    Echono added that another N5 billion was also approved for skills related equipment in the polytechnics.

    He urged the Polytechnics to identify between three and five skills areas and use the opportunity to mop up Nigerians from the streets

    He said that through the teaching of basic skills,, people would be able to fend for themselves and as well contribute to the economy.

    Earlier, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman while inaugurating the committees, urged the academia to get involved in contributing to development of the nation through their cutting edge researches.

    Mamman said there had been a major shift by the present government to ensure tertiary institutions played its role in research, innovation and teaching.

    “Universities and scholars have so much to do to make sure their research contribute to their personal growth and growth of the nation.

    He reiterated the commitment if the administration to reskilling the education sector from primary to tertiary institutions in order to requip the youths with required skills (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).

    FAK/OIF/ROT

    ===========
    Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Rotimi Ijikanmi

     

     

  • NCoS not detaining army general illegally-Official

    Army
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has said that the service did not detain Maj. Gen. Umaru Mohammed the former Group Managing Director, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Army Properties Limited illegally.
    The Public Relations Officer, NCoS FCT command, Mr Samson Duza said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
    Duza said that the Service was a responsible security agency set up by the laws of the federation, with the mandate of keeping the legally interned.
    According to him, the attention of the Command, has been drawn to a report by a whistle blowing group demanding for the release of Maj. Gen. Umaru Mohammed, purporting that he was detained without a warrant.
    “The Service only admits persons legally interned by a competent court of law or a military court martial.
    “In the case of the said General, he was legally detained by a military court martial, with a valid warrant.
    “It is rather unfortunate for the said group, acting without knowledge of how the system works, to feed the public with false information born out of crass ignorance.
    “Asking the NCoS to release the Major General, who was legally interned by a military court martial, is aberration to the criminal justice process,” he said.
    Duza enjoined the public to disregard the call by the said group as it was committed to safe and humane custody of all persons committed in its care.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Army Special Court Martial had convicted the former Group Managing Director of Nigerian Army Properties Limited (NAPL), Maj.-Gen. Umaru Mohammed to seven years imprisonment on Oct. 10, 2023.
    NAN reports that the court also ordered the convicted senior officer to refund $2.17 million dollars and N1.06 billion being amount of monies he stole, back to the company’s coffers.
    The officer was found guilty on 14 of the 18 count charges brought against him and the sentence was based on the provisions of the Criminal Code Act Cap C38 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, and section 174 of the Armed Forces Act cap  20 Laws, 2004.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)
    ICA/MNA
    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
  • Teenager, 2 others arraigned for allegedly stealing bags of maize

    Arraignment

    By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko

    Ibadan, June 11, 2024 (NAN) An 18-year-old, Idowu Saheed, and two others were on Tuesday in Ibadan docked at an Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing bags of imported maize.

    The defendants whose addresses were not provided were charged with conspiracy and stealing, to which they pleaded not guilty.

    The Prosecutor, Insp. Femi Omilana, told the court that the defendants allegedly committed the offence on May 30 at about 7:30 p.m. at Chifirm Nigeria Ltd., Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan.

    Omilana alleged that the defendants stole four bags of imported maize worth N390,000, belonging to the Chifirm company.

    He said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

    The Magistrate, Mrs Gladys Oladele, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N200,000 each, with two sureties each in like sum.

    She adjourned the case until July 17 for hearing.(NAN)
    CC/DEB/OLAL
    ============
    (Edited by Debo Oshundun and Olawale Alabi)

     

  • Climate change, women’s rights top discussions at HRC56

     Climate change, women’s rights top discussions at HRC56:

     

    Climate

    By Busayo Onijala

    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Rights of women and impacts of climate change on food and health security will be  major subjects of discussion  at the upcoming 56th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

    The President of UNHRC,  Amb. Omar Zniber, made this known during a virtual news conference on the agenda of the council’s 56th Regular Session to hold from June 18 to July 12 in Geneva.

    Zniber said that, at the session, there would be important panels on the adverse impacts of climate change as well as presentations on country situations.

    ”Our session will also have to develop very numerous interactive dialogues with special rapporteurs on the adoption of wrap-up reports, and we forecast a number of between 20 and 25 resolutions to be adopted.

    “There will be a presidential discussion on the trilogy, meaning the impact of climate change on food and health security.

    “This session is called for, to have an in-depth debate to exchange suggestions, recommendations and observations about these subjects which are a matter of concern,” Zniber said.

    He said that the purpose of the presidential discussion was to have a co-ordinated approach on the subjects so that the council would be more vocal and active when dealing with them.

    According to him, millions of populations worldwide are living in food insecurity.

    “Likewise, when it comes to the question of health, with all the developments we have witnessed these past few years, it is unfortunate that a huge part of the world’s population has no access to modern medicine.

    “As a human rights  council, we have to care about that, particularly as  climate change is impacting severely on populations already suffering from these difficult situations.”

    He said  that climate change was  deteriorating the environment and biodiversity.

    Zniber said that from human rights perspective, the council should run at the best speed when tackling the issues.

    According to him, the second important event at the session will be on June 24 and devoted to celebration of women in diplomacy.

    He said that issues of gender parity and equity in the world of diplomacy was fundamental.

    “We will celebrate this day and particularly insist on what can be done to make gender equity a full reality within the international organisation.

    “The president of the general assembly has established gender equity and parity as one of his major priorities as it is the case for me,” Zniber said. (NAN)

    OMB/IGO 

    ========

    Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

  • LASU secures NUC accreditation for 44 courses

    Accreditation

    By Oluwakemi Oladipo

    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Lagos State University (LASU) has secured National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation for 44 courses following an exercise conducted by the body in October and November 2023.

    The Vice -Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, made this announcement in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, in Lagos.

    Olatunji-Bello said that the result showed that 43 of the 44 courses assessed secured full accreditation, with only one course, ‘Computer Science Education’ getting interim accreditation.

    “The result translates to about 99 per cent pass mark, which is another unprecedented record in the university’s recent history.

    “It also marks another milestone in the achievements of six strategic goals of the current administration, the first of which is the accreditation of courses,” she said.

    Olatunji-Bello listed the accredited courses to include MSc. Banking and Finance, MSc. Insurance, MSc. Marketing, MSc. Transport Management, Industrial Relations and Personnel Management Insurance.

    Also listed are Management Technology, Marketing, Public Administration, Transport Management, Agriculture, Fisheries, French, History and International Studies, Philosophy and Portuguese.

    Others include Theatre and Media Arts, Mass Communication, Computer Science, Business Education, Education Arabic, Education Economics, Education Management, Education Mathematics, Education Technology and Health Education.

    On the list are also Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering, Chemical and Polymer Engineering ,Electronics and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Common and Islamic Law, Dentistry, Medicine and Surgery.

    The rest are Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Microbiology, Zoology, Economics, Geography and Planning, Political Science, Psychology and Sociology.

    Olatunji-Bello appreciated the Lagos State Government and the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, members of the governing council and all stakeholders in the LASU Project for the success. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OKG/OIF/SOA
    Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Oluwole Sogunle