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Media Stakeholders Advocate Balance in Africa’s Digital Transformation

Mercy Chukwudiebere
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Media Stakeholders Advocate Balance in Africa’s Digital Transformation

Media and broadcast stakeholders across Africa have called for a balance between the continent’s rapid digital transformation and the preservation of cultural identity, truth, and inclusiveness in information dissemination.

They made the call at the opening ceremony of Africast 2025, Africa’s leading broadcast and media convergence platform, held in Lagos, South-West Nigeria.

The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Charles Ebuebu, in his welcome address, stressed the need for innovation that serves humanity and protects public interest.

“We are building a media future that mirrors technology but reflects humanity—one that embraces innovation with integrity,” he said.

Mr. Ebuebu emphasized that as Africa embraces digital growth, the industry must uphold cultural values, promote local content, and maintain ethical media practices to ensure balanced and truthful information for citizens.

The Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Jibrin Baba Ndace, in his goodwill message, commended the collaboration between VON and the NBC, describing it as a model partnership for advancing Africa’s broadcast ecosystem.

“In this era of digital transformation, we must ensure that information management remains anchored on truth, accuracy, and inclusiveness,” he stated.

Mr. Ndace also urged media practitioners and regulators to protect the integrity of information flow across traditional and digital platforms, while encouraging leaders to serve with diligence and purpose.

“So many have come and gone, but their legacies remain. Whenever you have the opportunity to serve, give your best to it,” he added.

Similarly, Senator Kenneth Emeka Eze, representing Ebonyi Central District, urged media professionals to adapt to technological changes and assured that the Senate is working on legislation that will create a more enabling environment for the media to thrive and compete globally.

“By the time the new media legislation is out, every stakeholder will be happy because it will support your businesses and growth,” he said.

Established in 1996, Africast has evolved into a continental platform for policy dialogue, creativity, and technology exchange in the broadcast industry.

The 2025 edition, themed “Navigating the Digital Surge: Building a Resilient African Media Ecosystem for the Future,” brings together media executives, regulators, content creators, and technology innovators from across Africa and beyond.

The weeklong event features exhibitions, masterclasses, and panel sessions aimed at redefining Africa’s media landscape through innovation, collaboration, and ethical storytelling.

 

 

Mercy Chukwudiebere

Anambra Partners with NIHOTOUR to Boost Tourism, Hospitality Development

Mercy Chukwudiebere
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Anambra Partners with NIHOTOUR to Boost Tourism, Hospitality Development

The Anambra State Government has announced a partnership with the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) to strengthen tourism and hospitality development in the state.

The State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Dr. Ebele Nzekwe, and her delegation in Awka.

Dr. Mefor said “the collaboration would help unlock Anambra’s tourism potential through training, institutional partnerships, and human capital development.”

He noted that the Soludo administration had already taken steps to promote leisure and tourism, citing the establishment of the Solution Fun City as an example.

He highlighted the alignment between NIHOTOUR’s objectives and the state’s One Youth, Two Skills initiative, which focuses on youth empowerment through vocational training and entrepreneurship support.

In her remarks, NIHOTOUR Director-General, Dr. Ebele Nzekwe, said “the partnership would enhance capacity building in the state’s tourism and hospitality sector.”

She explained that “the institute’s mandate includes training, certification, and registration of personnel in the industry to meet modern professional standards.”

Dr. Nzekwe added that the establishment of NIHOTOUR’s new Anambra Office earlier this year would deepen collaboration with the state government and stakeholders in the sector.

SADC Launches Electoral Observation Mission Ahead of Tanzania’s Election

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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SADC Launches Electoral Observation Mission Ahead of Tanzania’s Election

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has officially launched its Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to monitor Tanzania’s 2025 General Election.

The ceremony, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam, was led by Richard Msowoya, former Speaker of Malawi’s Parliament and Head of the SEOM.

Mr. Msowoya emphasized that the Mission’s mandate is to assess the electoral process in line with Tanzania’s legal framework and the revised 2021 SADC principles and guidelines governing democratic elections.

He urged citizens to participate peacefully and called on all stakeholders to uphold democratic values during the polls slated for October 29, 2025.

The Mission will consult with political parties, civil society, women and youth groups, the media, and government agencies to gain a broad understanding of the electoral environment.

SADC has deployed observers to 27 out of 31 regions, underscoring its commitment to transparent and credible elections in the region.

Meanwhile, rights groups, including Amnesty International, have raised concerns over a rising climate of fear, alleged repression of opposition figures, journalists, and activists, with cases of politically motivated arrests and disappearances.

The upcoming election will see Tanzanians vote for the president, members of the National Assembly, and ward councillors.

With major opposition candidates disqualified or facing prosecution, observers will closely watch whether the polls meet democratic standards.

Nigeria Hosts 4th Biennial Conference On Africa’s Hydrocarbon Future

Victoria Ibanga
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Nigeria Hosts 4th Biennial Conference On Africa’s Hydrocarbon Future

The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State, will be hosting its 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST) on Wednesday, 22nd to Thursday, 23rd October 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria.

In a press conference ahead of the 4th Biennial International Conference held in Abuja, the Chief Executive of the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Dr Samuel Onoji, said the essence of the conference is to pull together scientists, subject matter experts, researchers, government agencies, academia, the student community and top players in the oil, gas and energy industry to examine topical issues with a view to presenting cutting-edge research, sharing field experiences and discussing policies that will shape the future of hydrocarbon in a fast-changing world.

He disclosed that the conference will feature keynote addresses from the Ministers of State for Oil, Mr Heineken Lokpobiri, and Gas, Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, Chief Executive Officers from sister agencies, panel sessions, exhibitions from partners and sponsors, as well as technical paper presentations that cover different areas of the hydrocarbon value chain.

Dr Onoji said the theme of this year’s conference, “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment, and Governance,” was carefully chosen to reflect the need for a balanced approach to industrial growth, environmental sustainability, and good governance in the hydrocarbon sector.

He stated that the technical sessions would cover a broad range of topics across the hydrocarbon value chain, from exploration to abandonment and decommissioning, as well as emerging developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental management, and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage.

“These discussions are essential to drive technological innovation and environmental stewardship in the sector.” He said.

The PTI Chief Executive further revealed that the conference would serve as a platform to nurture the next generation of energy professionals by providing students and young researchers with opportunities to network, learn, and strengthen their competencies.

He said, “As the world grapples with the realities of energy transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources, PTI, through this conference, is taking a bold step to advance research and development efforts that reflect Africa’s peculiar hydrocarbon situation.”

Dr Onoji observed that Africa holds an estimated 125 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and over 600 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, stressing that the continent must not hastily abandon fossil fuels but rather focus on deepening research into technologies that enable cleaner and more efficient utilisation of its natural resources.

He projected that global demand for fossil fuels will continue for at least the next 50 years, underscoring the need for Africa to harness its resources responsibly.

He also noted that only a few African nations have developed local expertise in critical aspects of oil production technology and the fabrication of key machinery, a gap which the ICHST aims to address through collaborative research and innovation.

The PTI Chief Executive said, “This conference intends to focus on developing local content capacity in oil technology to ensure Africa’s participation in the global hydrocarbon economy.”

Dr Onoji said the theme of this year’s conference is apt, as it aims to provide a holistic future of the oil and gas industry with a view to guiding critical stakeholders towards embracing opportunities, addressing challenges and fostering sustainable development in the ever-dynamic industry.

 

 

Kwara Reaffirms Commitment To Strengthening Food Systems

Aisha John-Mark
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Kwara Reaffirms Commitment To Strengthening Food Systems

Kwara State has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food systems and accelerating agricultural progress as Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq declared the 49th Annual Conference and General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) open in Ilorin.

The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi, said the administration’s investments in soil testing, processing plants, and value chain modernisation are designed to strengthen food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

He explained that the state’s new soil testing service helps farmers make informed fertiliser choices, enhances productivity, and promotes sustainable land use.

Similarly, the governor disclosed that the establishment of rice and cassava processing plants has boosted value addition and market access for local producers, while the shea butter factory in Kaiama is unlocking new opportunities for rural women and smallholder farmers.

He noted that Kwara’s partnership-driven approach continues to yield tangible results, from the development of agribusiness clusters to the adoption of climate-smart practices that enhance productivity and sustainability.

Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed that the state’s agricultural reform agenda aligns with the Renewed Hope vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which emphasises innovation, value addition, and food security for national development.

He added that Kwara is also deepening its collaboration with research institutions and youth-focused programmes to equip young people with the skills and tools to participate actively in modern agribusiness, further driving innovation and employment across the value chain.

The conference brought together industry experts, researchers, and policymakers from across the country to explore new frontiers in food science, processing, and value addition.

The Kwara State Government pledged continued collaboration with industry and research partners to advance research-driven solutions and position the State as a national model for a modern food system.

 

NBC Chief Reaffirms Vision To Revamp African Broadcasting

Oluwasola Akintonde
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NBC Chief Reaffirms Vision To Revamp African Broadcasting

The Director General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr Charles Ebuebu, has affirmed his commitment to recalibrating the broadcasting industry in Africa.

He made this statement during the convergence of stakeholders and various participants at the official grand opening of the Africast 2025 in Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria.

“At the National Broadcasting Commission, we see Africast not just as a conference, but as a strategic forum for recalibration. Broadcasting in Africa is no longer confined to the transmitter and receiver — it now lives in the cloud, the app store, the algorithm, and the audience’s hand. What this means is that regulation itself must evolve — from policing to enabling, from control to collaboration, and from analogue thinking to digital leadership.” NBC DG, Charles Ebuebu said.

Upholding Values

As we embrace the digital surge, we must also protect the values that define us — cultural identity, diversity, and the right of our citizens to truthful, balanced, and inclusive information. The broadcast space must reflect our humanity even as it mirrors our technology.

The NBC boss promised to advance key initiatives beyond this conference:
• A Policy Direction on Online Audiovisual Platforms of Significant Reach to safeguard digital broadcasting spaces;
• The expansion of the Digital Switch Over infrastructure through sustainable satellite partnerships;
• The development of a National Audience Measurement Framework rooted in transparency and local data ownership;
• And a renewed emphasis on media literacy, ethics, and AI verification systems to counter disinformation and deepfakes.

Commitments

First, clarity. We will continue to issue guidance where the law is clear, and we will work with the legislature and the ministry where the law needs to evolve for a digital age.

Second, coordination. No single agency can “solve” the information ecosystem. We will keep convening the right mix—regulators, platforms, broadcasters, civil society, academia—until solutions outlast news cycles.

Third, accountability. We will measure what we do, publish what we can, and invite honest scrutiny from the press and the public. A resilient ecosystem is not built by declarations; it is built by habits.

The NBC boss thanked partners, sponsors and the many others who share this vision of a connected continent.

“I invite you all regulators, creators, investors, and scholars — to think boldly, to collaborate openly, and to act decisively. The future of African broadcasting is not something to predict; it is something to build together,” He added.

The venue of the event was lit up with the presence of various known present and past Director Generals from different media organisations, including VON’s DG Mr. Jibrin Baba Ndace, who delivered a warming speech that encouraged the NBC boss to simply carry on with the good works already started by his predecessors.

Exhibition hall

Investors, stakeholders and wide participants from various sectors moved over to visit the different exhibition stands set up with ready staff and officials ready to welcome and educate visitors about the products, goods and services.

 

 

 

Stakeholders Intensify Advocacy For Women Representation Bill

Aisha John-Mark
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Stakeholders Intensify Advocacy For Women Representation Bill

Civil society group, Inclusive Access Development (IAD), is intensifying its advocacy efforts to mobilise stakeholders in support of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill 2025, which is currently progressing through Nigeria’s National Assembly.

Women make up approximately half of Nigeria’s population, yet remain significantly under-represented in governance and decision-making roles.

In response to this persistent disparity, IAD is ramping up its campaign to institutionalise reserved seats for women across all levels of government.

During a recent advocacy workshop in Gombe, IAD’s Executive Director, Sadiq Yahaya, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to the bill.

“We will not relent until this bill is passed, signed into law, and domesticated to amplify the voice of Nigerian women, just as it has been effectively implemented in countries like Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania,” he said.

Yahaya confirmed that the bill has already passed its first and second readings in the National Assembly.

However, he emphasised the need to maintain momentum through ongoing media campaigns and direct engagement with key stakeholders.

Yahaya also highlighted the particular challenges in Northern Nigeria, where conservative cultural and religious norms continue to pose significant barriers.

 “There must be intentional efforts to break these barriers. Reserved seats must be implemented nationwide so that women from all regions, including the North, feel empowered to contest and participate in governance,” Yahaya said.

Mrs Zainab Abdulfatah, a gender inclusion advocate and workshop facilitator, lamented the continued under-representation of women in both national and state legislatures, describing it as a major shortcoming in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

“This bill is crucial for democratic inclusiveness and representation. We must start seeing women as capable drivers of inclusive development. Every stakeholder, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women’s groups, civil society organisations, youth groups, has a role to play in advocating and sensitising communities on the bill’s importance,” Mrs Abdulfatah said.

She urged participants not to focus solely on the barriers but to concentrate on practical solutions to dismantle the existing biases.

“There are many hindrances, but let’s focus on how to break the bias,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Khalid Ahmed Kumo, legislative assistant to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abbas, educated participants on the legislative process, particularly the current constitutional amendment proceedings. He expressed optimism about the bill’s chances, citing the speaker’s strong support and growing backing from other lawmakers.

The Reserved Seats for Women Bill (HB 1383) proposes a constitutional amendment to create designated seats for women at the federal and state levels. The bill outlines the creation of:

  • 37 additional seats in the Senate,
  • 37 additional seats in the House of Representatives,
  • 3 additional seats per State House of Assembly (totalling 108 across Nigeria’s 36 states).

These seats would be filled through direct elections, allowing women to compete exclusively among themselves, without displacing existing male-held positions.

Participants at the workshop widely commended IAD’s efforts and pledged their support for the successful passage and implementation of the bill.

 

FCT Minister Launches New Projects, Describes Progress as Historic

Mercy Chukwudiebere
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FCT Minister Launches New Projects, Describes Progress as Historic

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says the ongoing series of infrastructure flag-offs and project inauguration across the territory marks an unprecedented milestone in the history of the FCT.

Wike made this known while commissioning the newly completed Engineering Infrastructure in Wuye District of the nation’s capital, Abuja.

He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for reviving long-abandoned projects and restoring public confidence in governance.

The Minister stated this on the 20th day of the FCT’s flag-off and commissioning programme, challenging critics to identify any previous administration that has matched the current pace of transformation under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.

“If there is any administration since the creation of the Federal Capital Territory that has achieved more than what we are doing, let them speak up now. Their silence says it all. This is leadership that is committed—leadership that is changing lives,” Wike declared.

According to the Minister, many of the projects being commissioned were abandoned since 2009 due to non-payment of contractors.

He explained that the Tinubu administration took decisive steps to revive them, leading to massive infrastructural development in the Gwagwalada District, including new road networks, sectoral arterials, tunnels, and utility services.

According to him, “When this administration came in, the President took immediate steps to revive what had been neglected. Within one year in office, major projects were completed, including the interchange that once caused traffic chaos in the area.”

Wike further announced that after 20 straight days of commissioning and flag-off events, the FCT Administration would take a short break before embarking on another 20-day phase focused on education development, promising to unveil the government’s achievements in schools and learning facilities across the capital.

“Our work is not only about roads and infrastructure; it also extends to education. For twenty more days, we will show Nigerians what we have done in that sector, and it will surprise many,” Wike said.

Expressing gratitude to FCTA staff, Area Council Chairmen, and Councillors, the Minister praised their dedication and described their efforts as record-breaking.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting all political leaders who align with President Tinubu’s vision, noting that a “political tsunami” of performance-driven governance is sweeping across the territory.

“Those in real estate used to complain—no roads, no infrastructure, our businesses are collapsing. Can you still say that today? Every day you see progress because infrastructure has been provided. That’s what development looks like,” he said.

Wike said; “My dear people, look around you. If you live here or have property here, your conscience will tell you the truth—that leadership has returned to this country. The Renewed Hope Agenda is real. Forget my face; what matters is the work being done.”

He commended the Area Council Chairmen and councillors for their cooperation and commitment to the ongoing development efforts.

In her remarks, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the project was aimed at providing communities with the infrastructure and comfort they have long awaited.

“As we celebrate this achievement, let us remember that every milestone is a promise kept, and every completion marks a new beginning,” she said.

Dr. Mahmoud expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda, she noted, continues to illuminate every part of the Federal Capital Territory.

She also commended the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his exemplary leadership and relentless drive to deliver projects that impact lives and uplift communities.

 

U17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos Set For France Clash

Mosunmola Ore
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U17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos Set For France Clash

After a painful 4–1 defeat to Canada in their opening Group D fixture, Nigeria’s U17 girls find themselves fighting for survival against a French side that kicked off their campaign with a strong 4–2 win over Samoa.

This fixture is more than just a group match, as there is history and something at stake for the Flamingos. The last time Nigeria met France at this tournament was 13 years ago, in Azerbaijan, where both sides played out a tense 0–0 draw in regulation time before France edged Nigeria 5–3 on penalties to advance from the quarter-finals.

Nigeria enter tomorrow’s match bottom of the table with zero points and a minus three goal difference, meaning defeat could mathematically end their World Cup journey. At minimum, a draw is essential, but a win would flip the entire narrative heading into the final group match against Samoa.

France plays with speed, fluidity and dominant structure. Their 4–2 win over Samoa was ruthless. Nigeria showed flashes of brilliance against Canada, scoring once, but defensive lapses haunted them badly.

READ ALSO: U17 Women’s World Cup: Mercy Akide-Udoh Inspires Flamingos

Coach Bankole Olowookere’s team must correct their transitions, stay compact, and rediscover their mental steel, as this is no longer about tactics alone, but also about character.

At the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1), 8 pm in Rabat, the Flamingos won’t just be playing France; they’ll be playing for belief, redemption, and survival.

 

 

Kwara Government Allocates ₦8.1 Billion For Retirees

Aisha John-Mark
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Kwara Government Allocates ₦8.1 Billion For Retirees

The Kwara State Government has earmarked ₦8.1 billion for the payment of gratuities for retired state and local government staff.

The state Commissioner for Finance, Dr Hawa Nuhu, disclosed this at the third quarter inter-ministerial briefing by the state government held at the state Ministry of Finance Conference Hall in Ilorin.

She disclosed that N5.6b will be disbursed to state retired staff for gratuities, while N2.5b has been earmarked for local government retired staff for their gratuities.

Dr Nuhu assured that the state government will continue to gradually offset pensions and gratuities because other developmental projects do not suffer.

She explained that pensions and gratuities have tripled due to the implementation of two salaries and wages, ₦30,000 and ₦70,000 minimum wages, with their consequential adjustment for retirees.

The commissioner asserted that the state government does not owe any local government retiree except those who refused to show up during the verification exercise conducted at all 16 local councils in the state.

“Those complaining are few, and they need to come forward and complete their verification exercise and collect their money.”

Dr Nuhu said the monthly internally generated revenue is about N15.7 billion, while the domestic debt of the state stands at N57 billion.

The finance commissioner also clarified the insinuation that new levies would be imposed on the residents at both state and federal levels, explaining that “no new levies in 2026, but rather, the governments are presently streamlining the existing taxes and will become effective from January 2026.

On his part, the Commissioner for Transportation, Lafia Aliyu Kora Sabi, said the ministry has beefed up safety and security, including the introduction of colour codes for transport operators for proper identification and commuter safety.

He also disclosed that 1,000 life jackets received from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy were distributed across the five riverine areas of the state, namely Baruten, Edu, Moro, Kaiama and Patigi Local Government Areas of the state, to enhance water safety.

In her own presentation, Commissioner for Social Welfare and Development, Dr Mariam Imam Nnafatima, said over 200 street beggars evacuated from the streets in Ilorin, the state capital, have been repatriated to their respective home states.

She said a total renovation of the rehabilitation centre at Amayo and Elders Home was ongoing to make it functional, while the state government has also been combating drug abuse in collaboration with the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in the state.

 

 

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