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Monarch Calls for Unity, Peace Ahead of Anambra Elections

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Monarch Calls for Unity, Peace Ahead of Anambra Elections

By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka

The Obi of Onitsha, Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, has called on Nigerians to remain resilient, united, and hopeful in the face of challenges.

At the 2025 Ofala Festival, his 24th since ascending the throne in 2002, the revered monarch emphasised the importance of peace and democratic integrity ahead of Anambra State’s upcoming gubernatorial election.

Addressing thousands of guests and dignitaries who gathered in Onitsha, southeastern Nigeria, for the annual royal festival, Igwe Achebe offered prayers for a peaceful and transparent election, scheduled for November 8.

“This is our 24th Ofala Festival since 2002 when I ascended the throne of Ezechima, our ancestral patriarch,” the monarch said. “Except for the two-year interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have consistently celebrated this festival in the traditional manner. This year is no exception, and we are immensely grateful to the Most High God for His guidance and protection.”

Turning to the political climate, the traditional ruler noted the intensity of the ongoing campaigns among the five leading political parties in Anambra State.

He called on all stakeholders to uphold democratic values.

“Our fervent prayer is for a peaceful and transparent election to enable the electorate to freely determine their choice in the true spirit of democracy,” he stated.

Addressing security in the Southeast region,  the Obi expressed hope that recent international legal actions would help stem the tide.

“We pray that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland will contribute to a reduction in violent crime across the region,” he said.

“According to an SBM Intelligence report titled ‘Four Years of Disruption’ published in May 2025, an estimated ₦7.6 trillion has been lost since 2021 due to the ongoing disturbances.”

The monarch described this period as one requiring sober reflection and collective action, particularly among the Igbo people.

“Nigeria and indeed the world are progressing, yet we are at risk of being left behind due to the actions of a few who disrupt peace and development,” he lamented.

Reaffirming the message of unity and progress, Igwe Achebe recalled the theme of last year’s Ofala Festival—“Better. Stronger. Together.”—as still being relevant and urgent today.

“It was a call for our people to build on our gains and prepare for future challenges. That message remains as relevant today as ever,” he said.

The Ofala Festival is an annual celebration of the Obi’s reign and a traditional renewal of kingship rites among the Onitsha people. It draws thousands of attendees, including local residents, members of the diaspora, government officials, and international visitors.

Igwe Achebe, a highly respected monarch and public figure, has used the festival as a platform to promote peace, cultural pride, and development in the Southeast and beyond.

The Ofala Festival, recognized by the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) as a major cultural event, has also received international commendation.

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has awarded it a certificate of excellence, and an application is currently underway for UNESCO recognition as a world heritage event.

Speaker Abbas Commends Defence Chief Leadership

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Speaker Abbas Commends Defence Chief Leadership

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas has commended the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, for his purposeful leadership and for making personnel welfare a strategic pillar of combat effectiveness within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Mr. Abbas described General Musa’s leadership philosophy at the Defence Headquarters as one that places personnel welfare at the heart of military capability and operational excellence.

The Speaker made this known during the commissioning of newly constructed officers’ accommodation at Niger Barracks Extension and the link road connecting Mambilla Barracks with key defence facilities in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

He said “the projects are clear evidence that when leadership treats welfare as a priority rather than an afterthought, the entire defence system benefits from improved morale, cohesion, and performance”.

“No fighting force, no matter how well-equipped or trained, can perform at its best without decent accommodation, reliable infrastructure, and a humane work environment,” Mr. Abbas stated.

The Speaker emphasised that the newly commissioned facilities represent the nation’s commitment to the welfare, morale, and operational efficiency of the gallant men and women safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty.

He also paid tribute to officers and soldiers who have paid the supreme price in the line of duty, assuring that their sacrifices would never be in vain while reaffirming the National Assembly’s support for their families and wounded comrades.

Mr. Abbas highlighted that the House of Representatives has prioritized defence, internal security, and veterans’ welfare through budgetary support for critical platforms, housing, healthcare, mental health, and post-service transition programs.

He said that “the legislature is also working on bills to deepen professionalism, accountability, and local content in the defence sector, in line with the Made-in-Nigeria initiative and the government’s modernization drive”.

The Speaker urged sustainability and proper maintenance of the new facilities, stressing that long-term capability depends on preventive maintenance culture and transparent asset management.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said the event marked another milestone in efforts to enhance the welfare and working environment of Armed Forces personnel nationwide.

General Musa explained that “the projects reflect his leadership philosophy of nurturing a people-centric and professional Armed Forces, adding that welfare remains central to boosting morale and operational readiness.”

He stated that the newly commissioned Niger Barracks Extension Block will provide a conducive environment for officers at the Defence Headquarters, a space where they can think clearly, plan strategically, and formulate sound policies that enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

He noted that the project aligns with his leadership philosophy of nurturing a professional, people-centric, and collaborative Armed Forces capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities in a joint environment.

Emphasising the importance of welfare as a cornerstone of military effectiveness, he maintained that “operational success begins with the morale and well-being of personnel, as well-accommodated troops perform better in their duties”.

General Musa expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for its timely budgetary approvals and proactive engagement, which have made welfare-driven projects like this possible.

He further commended the legislature for granting additional funding streams to the Armed Forces through new tax provisions, noting that such support will strengthen capacity to sustain welfare programmes, modernise operations, and enhance national security.

According to him, the commissioning marks the first phase of a broader plan to provide adequate accommodation for officers and soldiers, pledging that the effort will continue until every member of the Armed Forces has access to decent and comfortable living quarters.

He also commended the Service Chiefs for their steady commitment to troop welfare, citing recent infrastructure projects across the Air Force, Navy, and Army as proof of their collective resolve.

General Musa further appreciated the unwavering support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration, he said, has demonstrated remarkable commitment to the welfare, training, and operational needs of the military.

He added that this sustained support continues to boost morale and motivation, contributing significantly to the steady reduction of insecurity across the nation.

The Chief of Defence Logistics, Major General Gabriel Ochigbano, said that the project took about 18 months to complete due to extensive land reclamation efforts.

He noted that nearly two-thirds of the land was initially unusable but has now been transformed into a functional living space for officers.

Nigeria Moves Up Four Spots To 41st In New FIFA Rankings

chidi igwe
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Nigeria Moves Up Four Spots To 41st In New FIFA Rankings

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have jumped four places to 41st in the latest FIFA men’s world rankings, breaking back into Africa’s top five.

Released on Friday, the new FIFA rankings mark a major improvement for Nigeria, who have climbed from 45th to 41st.

The three-time African champions also moved ahead of Ivory Coast, now ranked 42nd in the world.

Nigeria’s rise in the rankings follows a strong run in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, which included a 2–1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane and a convincing 4–0 win against Benin Republic in Uyo.

Those results not only boosted their ranking points but also secured Nigeria’s place in the continental playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.

The Super Eagles are now set to face Gabon, currently ranked 77th in the world and 15th in Africa, for a place in the final playoff round, where either Cameroon or DR Congo could await.

On the continental stage, Morocco remains Africa’s highest-ranked team despite slipping one place to 12th in the world.

Senegal follows in second place on the continent and 18th globally, while Egypt (32nd) and Algeria (35th) complete Africa’s top four, with Nigeria rounding out the top five.

Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Mali, Cameroon, and South Africa complete Africa’s top ten.

Globally, Spain remains the team to beat at the top of the FIFA world ranking, strengthening their position with successive World Cup qualifying wins over Georgia and Bulgaria.

France is also well placed to secure a ticket to the tournament in North America, but will have to wait a little longer after following up a 3–0 victory over Azerbaijan with a 2–2 draw against Iceland.

World Cup holders Argentina took advantage of Les Bleus’ slip by climbing back into second place with friendly successes against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.

NBA President Calls for Stronger Regulation in Tourism Sector

Lantana Nasir
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NBA President Calls for Stronger Regulation in Tourism Sector

By Ekene Okafor

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, has underscored the pressing necessity for effective regulatory frameworks within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.

Osigwe made the remark when the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, paid him a courtesy visit at the NBA House in Abuja.

He said that it was imperative for the industry to be guided by appropriate legal measures in order to fully realize its national and economic potential.

Osigwe commended the ongoing transformation and professionalization drive being championed by NIHOTOUR.

He noted that with proper legal and institutional frameworks, the hospitality and tourism sector could become one of Nigeria’s most reliable engines for job creation, youth empowerment, and global competitiveness.

“Our hospitality and tourism industry must be regulated to yield maximum benefits for Nigeria. Proper standards, accountability, and consumer protection are key. The NBA is ready to collaborate with NIHOTOUR in providing the necessary legal backbone to achieve this,” Osigwe said.

Read Also: Nigerian Tourism Development Authority Boss Assumes Office

Association Commends Nigerian Government on Waterways, Tourism Development

In his response, Dr. Fagade expressed appreciation for the NBA’s willingness to partner with NIHOTOUR, describing the Association as a critical stakeholder in strengthening institutional governance across service industries.

“Regulation backed by strong legal principles is vital to ensuring our sector’s growth is both sustainable and globally credible. NIHOTOUR is committed to driving this transformation in line with the national tourism policy,” Fagade stated.

The visit marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between NIHOTOUR and the NBA aimed at enhancing legal collaboration, policy alignment, and professional training in tourism law and ethics.

The engagement supports NIHOTOUR’s broader mission of building a competent, compliant, and competitive tourism workforce for Nigeria.

Chartered Accountants Launch New School Initiative on Sustainability Education

Lantana Nasir
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Chartered Accountants Launch New School Initiative on Sustainability Education

By Cynthia Okere, Lagos

A new educational initiative designed to inspire environmental awareness and responsible living among Nigerian school children has been launched under the banner “Sustainability Hour Programme.”

The programme, spearheaded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in collaboration with educators, environmental advocates, and youth development organizations, aims to integrate sustainability education into the daily learning experiences of primary and secondary school students across the country.

Under the initiative, one hour each week will be dedicated to interactive learning sessions focused on key topics such as climate change, waste management, recycling, renewable energy, and sustainable lifestyles.

Through storytelling, practical demonstrations, and student-led projects, the Sustainability Hour Programme seeks to nurture a generation of environmentally conscious young Nigerians.

Speaking at the launch, Tom Isibor, Country Head of ACCA Nigeria, explained the vision behind the programme and its expected impact on Nigerian schools and students.

“The ACCA Sustainability Hour is an initiative developed by ACCA Global to help future leaders understand the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and engage in advocacy that drives behavioural change.

“We want our young people to begin adopting values and habits that promote positive change in the world. The earth must remain sustainable for our children’s children, and this starts with the right mindset and actions today,” Isibor said.

Isibor also expressed optimism that the programme would help students make more informed and sustainable choices in their daily lives.

“We expect this initiative to promote quality education by encouraging talented children to support slower learners, especially those in rural areas. The Sustainability Hour is open to both public and private schools. Our main goal is to engage young leaders in adopting sustainable behaviours and empowering them to become advocates for change,” he re-emphasized.

He further noted that the initiative will focus on six of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), ranging from quality education to responsible consumption and production, beginning with an initial six-month pilot phase before nationwide expansion.

Teachers Wonderful Olulana and Eseoghene Okotie from Temple School described the programme as a welcome step toward integrating sustainability into the school curriculum.

In their goodwill messages, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih from the Office of SDG Lagos, Kofo Karounwi, Chairperson of the Association of International Educators of Nigeria, and Chiamaka Nnake, Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Anambra State, all expressed their delight in partnering with ACCA for the launch.

They emphasized the importance of preparing children to take active roles in addressing environmental challenges.

“With this programme, we are getting closer to achieving the 2030 SDG targets. It had gone beyond learning to making sustainability a lifestyle among children,” Nnake noted.

Some students, including Munachimso Akalonu of Temple School College and Okon Michel, pledged to embrace sustainable habits for a better future, urging other students to join forces with ACCA in sustaining the initiative.

Highlights of the launch included a fashion parade featuring creative outfits made from recycled materials, student panel discussions, a quiz competition, and awards presentations.

Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Food Security Agenda

Victoria Ibanga
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Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Food Security Agenda

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured us of his administration’s commitment to engage critical stakeholders towards a food-secured and sufficient state consistently.

The governor gave the assurance during the grand finale of the 2025 World Food Day, with the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future“.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that agriculture remains the bedrock of the economy, which drives innovation and must be closely guided to achieve its impact on humanity.

The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin explained that World Food Day underscores the importance of shared responsibility to strengthen the State’s food system, and it is a collective call to action against hunger and malnutrition.

This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future“, highlights the urgent need for collaboration among governments, the private sector, development organisations, and communities to transform agrifood systems, promote healthy diets, and safeguard our environment.

“For Lagos State, the challenge is unique. Despite being the smallest in landmass, Lagos is home to over 22 million people, making it the most densely populated state in Nigeria. Feeding such a vast population requires innovation, bold investments, and robust partnerships.

And as we commemorate World Food Day 2025, let us reaffirm our collective resolve to work hand in hand for better food systems and a better future for all,” he said

Redefining agriculture

Sanwo-Olu mentioned that Lagos State has, in the past years, walked the path of redefining agriculture as an engine for growth and will continue in that direction to sustain posterity.

He added that since 2021, when the state launched a 5-year Agricultural and Food Systems Roadmap, it has activated a series of intervention programmes that have provided support for food production, infrastructure, and market systems designed to reduce high food prices and build a sustainable food reserve management structure.

The Governor, however, highlighted some of the intervention programmes and projects to include the implementation of the Food Systems Transformation Agenda among which focuses on establishing the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub, Mid-Level Agroproduce Hubs, Last-Mile Food Distribution Outlets, the Produce for Lagos Programme, the Eko Agro Mechanisation Programme (EKO AGROMECS), and the Lagos Agripreneurship Programme (LAP), among others.

He said the state will continue to raise awareness about hunger, food insecurity, and the need for collective action to improve food systems.

Celebrating farmers

In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, said that the event was organised to appreciate the farmers and to emphasise the need for consistent collaboration with stakeholders in the sector towards attaining sustainable food systems.

Olusanya said that the global fight against food insecurity is a continuous process that must be sustained to ensure a better living and livable environment.

She said, “As we know, food is a necessity of life. Food security, as defined by the United Nations Committee on World Food Security, means that all people, at all times, have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets dietary needs for an active and healthy life.

Poor nutrition weakens the immune system, fuels diseases, and lowers productivity, thereby stifling economic growth. A food-secure nation, on the other hand, is strong, prosperous, and resilient.”

Farmers efforts

In his goodwill message, the Special Adviser on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, appreciated the farmers for ensuring food is made from farm to table to sustain lives.

The Board Director of the British American Tobacco Foundation, Mr Yarub Al-Bahrani, also lauded the consistency of the farmers in the state as he enjoined the agric off-takers to always patronise local farmers to boost their income and productivity.

Appreciating farmers

The highlight of the event was the march past/parade by the clusters of farmers who displayed some of the farm produce made in their various localities, followed by award presentations to outstanding farmers in different categories.

The winners include:

The Best Farm Estate -Erikorodo Farm Estate.

Best Agro Processor -Farm Junction.

Best Farm Settlement -Ajara Farm Settlement.

Best Livestock Champion -Lagos Island Local Government.

Best Aquaculture Champion -Apapa Local Government.

Best Artisanal Champion -Ejalonibu Fishermen Cooperative.

Best LGA/LCDA -Yaba Local Government.

Best Crop Champion -Daddy Louis Tomato Grower Association, Badagry.

 

 

 

Kwara, UNICEF Promote Nigerian Adolescents Healthcare

Kamila Bello
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Kwara, UNICEF Promote Nigerian Adolescents Healthcare

The Kwara State Government, with the support of United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), and other development partners has organised a sensitisation walk in solidarity with adolescents’ health and development advocacy groups.

Speaking on the sidelines of the walk, the Director, Public Health of the Kwara Ministry of Health, Dr Oluwatosin Fakayode stated that the week was to sensitise the communities to the importance of caring for the adolescents.

He appealed to parents to listen and give necessary support to the adolescents and avoid being “prescriptive” in their response towards their children.

Fakayode said, “Most parents don’t listen to their adolescent children. Gone are the days that you will be prescriptive to them. Children have learnt to ask questions on everything.

”You must learn to listen to them and also guide them, but most importantly you need to understand the reality of what they are, provide and guide them to be productive members of the society.”

Fakayode described the adolescents as the leaders of tomorrow who must be guided and cherished.

“We don’t want them to be victims of societal vices, we need to know that their physical and mental health is very important.

“We have programmes for the adolescent at the ministry, to help them develop and reach their potential.

“We help safeguard them from social vices, drug abuse sexual assault and social assault,” he said.

The sensitisation walk was part of the activities organised to commemorate the 2025 International Adolescents’ Week.

The director pointed out that the government had ensured that they have access to healthcare which are adolescent-friendly.

According to him, the government has put in place facilities for the adolescents that were meant to cater for their needs without discrimination.

Also speaking, the UNICEF Health Specialist, Dr Hadiza Aliyu, described the adolescents as the change makers and leaders of tomorrow.

She emphasised the importance of the week, while enjoining parents to be committed to listening to young voices, their challenges and give support in removing barriers to their development.

Aliyu reiterated the support of UNICEF towards adolescents’ health, and pledged the commitment of the organisation in creating safe spaces for the adolescents to speak out and seek help.

In his remark, the Adolescents’ Desk Officer, Kwara Ministry of Health, Mr Buhari Oladimeji, reiterated the commitment of the state government towards adolescents’ health and development.

He observed that the adolescents have several challenges including menstrual hygiene problem, reproductive health, emotional problem and issues of mental health among others.

Oladimeji said, “It is not a problem for them alone, but can become problem for the communities and society at large.

“The government is trying a lot by ensuring a safe place, such as adolescent friendly centres, where they can go and access care without fear of being judged.”

He said that the Kwara and other development partners have programmes to care for adolescent in area of drug abuse, mental stability and physical health among others.

Oladimeji explained further that the State government had commenced the distribution of re-usable menstrual pads to girls in secondary schools across the state.

He stated that with the present economic condition, re-usable menstrual pads were convenient, comfortable, hygienic and cost saving.

 

NAN

Edo Governor Praises Air Force’s Development Efforts

Lantana Nasir
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Edo Governor Praises Air Force’s Development Efforts
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its commitment to community development and its impactful social initiatives.
This acknowledgement follows the recent commissioning of a Special Intervention/Quick Impact Project (QIP) in the Ohe Community located in Irrua, within the Esan Central Local Government Area.
The project, inaugurated by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, provides an industrial borehole with a 35,000-litre overhead water tank to enhance access to clean water for residents.
Governor Okpebholo, who served as Special Guest of Honour, represented by Gani Audu, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Edo state, lauded the NAF for extending its developmental initiatives beyond its operational responsibilities, describing the project as a true reflection of the service’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s grassroots development agenda, aimed at promoting sustainable growth and improving the quality of life across Edo State.
The governor also praised Air Marshal Abubakar for his leadership vision in strengthening civil-military relations through impactful humanitarian programmes.
Speaking at the event, the CAS, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, reaffirmed the NAF’s resolve to deepen its connection with communities through development-orientated projects.
He explained that the initiative forms part of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Special Intervention and QIPs, designed to foster trust, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the military and the civilian populace.
According to Air Marshal Abubakar, “civil-military relations remain critical to national stability, as they promote collaboration between the armed forces and local communities while discouraging activities that threaten peace and unity.” 
He further noted that the “upgrade of the Directorate of Civil-Military Relations to a full Branch in May 2024 demonstrates the NAF’s evolving role in humanitarian affairs, gender advocacy, and grievance redress for both personnel and civilians.”
The CAS commended Air Vice Marshal Pius Oguega Oahimire, an indigene of Ohe Community, for identifying a project that directly addresses the people’s needs.
He urged residents to take ownership of the facility and maintain it for long-term use while assuring them of the NAF’s continued partnership in promoting peace and security across the state.
In his remarks, AVM Oahimire, the Project Coordinator and Honouree, expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for the honour of executing a project in his community under the NAF’s QIP.
He stated that access to clean water is essential to life and development, adding that the gesture reflects the NAF’s understanding that national security and community welfare are inseparable. He encouraged the people of Ohe to protect and sustain the project as a legacy for future generations.
The event attracted community leaders, traditional rulers, NAF senior officers, and residents, who all expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for its continued efforts in improving lives through people-centred initiatives.

Osun Climbs To 6th In Climate Governance Ranking

Lantana Nasir
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Osun Climbs To 6th In Climate Governance Ranking

Osun State has emerged 6th among Nigeria’s 36 states in the 2nd Edition of the Sub-national Climate Governance Performance Ranking Report, marking a remarkable rise from its previous 30th position.

The Climate Governance Performance Ranking is a federal government initiative supported by the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP).

The report provides a comprehensive evaluation of how Nigerian states are implementing climate policies, strengthening institutional frameworks, and promoting local climate action.

According to a press release signed by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the ranking serves as an important tool for accountability, innovation, and collaboration toward achieving a sustainable and resilient future for all Nigerians.

“In this 2025 edition, Osun State achieved a total score of 265, marking an exceptional leap from 30th position in 2024 to 6th position; thereby emerging as the second-best performing state in the South-West region after Lagos State,” Rasheed stated.

According to Rasheed, the state has implemented several transformative initiatives, including:

•Increased budgetary allocation for climate change projects and programmes;

•Establishment of a Department of Climate Change and Renewable Energy within the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation;

•Implementation and monitoring of climate-related projects across local governments;

•Integration of climate education and environmental awareness into school curricula;

•Regular capacity building for state and local climate officers; and

•Enhanced coordination and collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment and other national and international partners.

Special commendation was also given to Professor Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe, Director-General and Special Envoy to the Governor on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, whose leadership, resilience, and strategic coordination have been instrumental in positioning Osun State as a national leader in sub-national climate governance.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Environment, the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), and other experts in climate change, circular economy, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability.

Rivers State Pledges Support for Judiciary’s Independence

Lantana Nasir
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Rivers State Pledges Support for Judiciary’s Independence

The Government of Rivers State, in South-South Nigeria, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring that the state’s judiciary remains independent, efficient, and a steadfast pillar of democracy.

Speaking during the formal opening of the 2025/2026 legal year at a special court session held at the State High Court Complex, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara declared that his government would provide every necessary support to empower the judiciary as a truly autonomous and effective arm of government.
In his address, Governor Fubara praised the Rivers State Judiciary, describing it as one of the most reputable in Nigeria.
He lauded the courage, brilliance, and dedication of its judicial officers, noting that their consistent application of the law with integrity had strengthened the public’s trust in the justice system.
“Every judge is under a judicial oath to provide equal justice to all persons according to law without fear, favour, or affection, emphasising the moral responsibility of judges to uphold impartial justice in all cases,” he said.
The governor called on all courts, whether superior or subordinate, to carry out their duties with boldness and fairness, ensuring their rulings promote substantial justice, democracy, and respect for fundamental human rights.
He reminded legal practitioners of their role as ministers in the temple of justice, stressing that honesty and fidelity to the law must guide their practice.
In a reassuring note, Governor Fubara announced that the recent political crisis in the state had been fully resolved, with all stakeholders reconciled and the administration now focused on delivering people-oriented governance.
 “We have resumed full implementation of our developmental agenda with renewed energy and greater determination, pledging cooperation with the Legislature, Judiciary, and relevant institutions to fast-track progress,” he added.
The Governor also acknowledged the exemplary leadership of the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, whose efforts, he said, have kept the judiciary functional and credible even in difficult times.

Cordelia Eke, Chair of the NBA Port Harcourt, has asserted that political challenges and the lack of an Attorney General have significantly hindered the delivery of justice.

She emphasised the necessity of enhancing legal frameworks to protect institutions during periods of crisis.

On behalf of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), Onueze Okocha decried the erosion of public trust in the courts, blaming it on inconsistent judgments and slow justice. He urged judges to uphold integrity and resist personal or political influence.
The event concluded with presentations of gifts to key state officials and intercessory prayers for the Judiciary, Government, Rivers State, and the nation at large.
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