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Lagos To Host 7th National AIDS Council – NACA

Manomsi Mallum
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Lagos To Host 7th National AIDS Council – NACA

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has announced that the 7th National Council on AIDS (NCA) will take place in Lagos State in August 2025, with support from the Lagos State Agency for the Control of AIDS (LSACA).

The high-level statutory event will be held under the theme:
“Advancing National HIV Sustainability Agenda in the Changing Global Policy on Aid.”

Established under the NACA Act of 2006, the council serves as Nigeria’s apex coordinating body for the multi-sectoral response to HIV/AIDS.

It convenes stakeholders across government, civil society, donor agencies, and communities to deliberate on sustainable strategies for HIV prevention, treatment, and control—especially amid a shifting global aid landscape.

Dr Temitope Ilori, Director-General of NACA and Chairman of the Council, underscored the strategic importance of this year’s meeting, stating:

“As donor landscapes evolve, Nigeria must take bold steps to ensure that HIV prevention, treatment, and support remain accessible and resilient. The Council offers us a unified platform to chart that future.”

Read Also: Kebbi Government to Commission Ultra-Modern Veterinary Hospital

The Council’s agenda will focus on three technical tracks:

  • Advancing the National HIV Sustainability Agenda in a Changing Global Aid Landscape.
  • Multi-Sectoral Approaches to Sustainability of HIV and Related Developmental Diseases.
  • Strengthening Sub-National Structures for Sustainability and Health Systems Effectiveness.

An update will also be provided on the implementation of twelve key resolutions from the 6th NCA meeting.

Stakeholders are invited to submit policy and implementation memoranda, which will be reviewed during the Council and may influence future national HIV strategies.

The programme will comprise two days of technical sessions, followed by a final day of official Council deliberations, culminating in a communiqué outlining agreed priorities and actions.

A special gala night, hosted by the Governor of Lagos State, will honour individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s HIV response.

Expected participants include:

  • Heads of State AIDS Control Agencies (SACAs)
  • State Commissioners for Health and Federal Ministry of Health officials
  • NACA Directors and other relevant government agencies
  • Representatives from civil society, community groups, and faith-based organisations
  • Development and donor partners supporting HIV programmes in Nigeria

The 7th NCA aims to foster inter-sectoral collaboration across HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, reproductive health, and broader development priorities, driving a unified and sustainable national health agenda.

NACA reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive, data-driven, and forward-looking HIV/AIDS response.

For updates, engagement, and participation, stakeholders are encouraged to visit: www.naca.gov.ng

Media Enquiries & Registration:
Toyin Aderibigbe
Head, Public Relations and Protocol
📧: taderibigbe@naca.gov.ng
📞: +234 703 661 1266

 

Ahmed Musa Unveils Transformation Agenda for Kano Pillars FC

Mosunmola Ore
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Ahmed Musa Unveils Transformation Agenda for Kano Pillars FC

The newly appointed General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, Ahmed Musa, has unveiled a comprehensive development agenda aimed at restoring the club’s lost glory and prioritizing players’ welfare.

Speaking during a media interaction in Kano, the Nigerian international and former Super Eagles captain emphasized his commitment to reviving the spirit and performance of the club both on and off the pitch.

READ ALSO: Ahmed Musa Resumes As Kano Pillars General Manager

“I will ensure every player has the opportunity to showcase their talent and contribute meaningfully to our success,” Musa stated. “Players’ welfare remains a top priority, as a comfortable player is a better performer.”

Musa, who also doubles as an active player for the club, revealed that measures are already being taken to avoid the setbacks experienced in previous seasons.

“We are targeting the trophy this season and working hard to ensure past mistakes are not repeated.”

Hesaid his agenda focused on revamping the club’s structure and performance.

“I urge sports lovers in Kano to support us fully. I’m committed to doing everything possible to restore the club’s legacy.”

On balancing dual roles as General Manager and player, Musa said, “It’s a challenging task, but I’m ready for it. On the pitch, I’m under the coach’s authority like every other player. Off the pitch, I handle administrative responsibilities.”

He also appealed for broader support beyond government funding, revealing efforts by the club to secure corporate sponsorship.

“We’ve already started reaching out to several companies. Sustainable sponsorship is vital — we can’t depend on government alone.”

Musa called on fans and residents of Kano State to stand behind the club. He expressed gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the opportunity to serve in this new capacity.

U.S. Slashes Visa Duration for Some African Nationals

Hauwa Mustapha
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U.S. Slashes Visa Duration for Some African Nationals

The U.S revised its visa reciprocity policy for Nigeria and Ghana, limiting tourist, business and academic travelers to single-entry visas valid for three months, according to a notice by the U.S Embassy in Nigeria.

The new rules apply to non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visa applicants.

Effective immediately, will have to adhere to the new rules.

The U.S values its relationship with Nigeria, according to the statement, and will remain committed to expanding U.S.-Nigeria cooperation.

” We wish to underscore that, as is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity”, the statement reads.

On Wednesday, Business Insider Africa reported that Ghana would also be affected by the new rules.

Similar to Nigeria, most Ghanaians are now limited to single-entry visas valid for a period of three months.  

U.S. non-immigrant visas issued before July 8th, 2025, will retain their status and validity according to the statement.

Leading up to his election in November 2024, U.S President Donald Trump campaigned on a promise to decrease immigration to the United States.

Tuesday’s visa revision follows the Trump administration’s travel ban announced on June 5th affecting 12 countries, including Chad, the Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia and Sudan.

A week later, an internal U.S State Department cable suggested that another 36 countries could face a travel ban if issues relating to alleged terrorist, anti-Semitic and anti-American activity weren’t addressed within 60 days.

Both Nigeria and Ghana were on the list of countries facing a potential travel ban.

Africanews/Hauwa M.

Anambra Emerges As Nigeria’s New Tech, Investment Hub

Christopher Ojilere
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Anambra Emerges As Nigeria’s New Tech, Investment Hub

Anambra State has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a technology-driven and business-friendly environment as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its status as a leading destination for investment in Nigeria.

The resolve was reiterated during the maiden State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) technical session and statewide town hall meeting, held at the International Conference Center, Awka.

The event was part of a nationwide tour by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), aimed at engaging state governments, private sector leaders, and business communities on reform implementation.

Representing Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Deputy Governor Dr. Onyeka Ibezim welcomed the PEBEC delegation and stakeholders, describing the engagement as both timely and strategic. He emphasized that Anambra’s approach to reforms is deliberate, data-driven, and rooted in measurable outcomes.

“In line with Governor Soludo’s philosophy that ‘if you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it,’ we are embedding accountability, planning, and technology at every level of governance,” Dr. Ibezim said.

Anambra currently ranks 7th nationally and holds the top spot in the South East region in the Ease of Doing Business index. Despite this achievement, the state government says it views reforms as a continuous process.

In a goodwill message delivered via video, PEBEC Director-General, Princess Zahra Mustapha Audu, described the SABER programme, a $750 million World Bank-supported initiative, as a transformational platform designed to help states adopt global standards and create transparent, business-friendly environments.

“While designing reforms is important, real impact lies in their effective implementation. States are the engines of economic growth,” she stated.

Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, reinforced this message, noting that with over 98% of Anambra’s wealth held by the private sector, the government’s reform agenda must be both responsive and intentional.

“Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, we are committed to removing obstacles for businesses and creating an environment where entrepreneurship can flourish,” she said.

During the technical session, PEBEC reform leaders Ohiemi Gabriel, Ifeanyi Icheke, and Oluwatofunmi Odunladi applauded Anambra’s consistent reporting and reform efforts, which earned it its current ranking in both 2021 and 2023. They encouraged the state to sustain its momentum ahead of the next PEBEC assessment scheduled for December 2025.

A key highlight of the day was a town hall session featuring a panel of top state officials, including Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency; Commissioners for Industry, Lands, Power, and Water Resources; as well as the heads of ANSIPPA and ASBA.

The panel emphasized the pivotal role of technology in Anambra’s reform drive, citing flagship initiatives such as:

ANAMGIS (Anambra Geographic Information System) digitizing land administration processes;

Grievance Redress Mechanism promptly addressing investor concerns;

State-wide Digital Domain (.anambrastate.gov.ng) enhancing trust and standardizing official communication;

Fiber Optic Expansion supporting future 5G infrastructure under the “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” agenda;

Solution Lens is a civic tech platform enabling citizens to monitor and report on government projects, fostering transparency and inclusion.

Panelists also highlighted Governor Soludo’s push to interconnect the state through strategic road infrastructure, aimed at improving business mobility and logistics.

They noted that with strategic planning, technological integration, and strong governance, Anambra is steadily evolving into a modern, responsive state where businesses can thrive, scale, and contribute to long-term economic growth.

As Anambra prepares for the next PEBEC evaluation, the government and stakeholders have reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining digital-led, measurable, and investor-centric reforms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NSUBEB, NSCDC Partner to Secure Primary Schools in Nasarawa

Peace Piak Kanu
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NSUBEB, NSCDC Partner to Secure Primary Schools in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) has entered into a formal partnership with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to enhance security in public primary schools across the state.

The Executive Chairman of NSUBEB, Kassim Kassim, announced the collaboration during a courtesy visit by the NSCDC State Commandant, Mohammed Kabir, at the Board’s headquarters in Lafia.

Kassim said the agreement will see officers of the NSCDC’s Safe School Programme Unit deployed to protect pupils and school infrastructure against kidnapping, burglary, and vandalism.

“Right now, we have mobilised contractors to various schools across the state to renovate structures, build new ones, and provide furniture. We spend huge amounts of money and will not allow criminals to vandalise these properties,” he stated.

He also appealed to the NSCDC to go beyond surveillance and intensify efforts to apprehend individuals who purchase vandalised school property.

“If buyers of these items are properly monitored and arrested, those vandalising school properties won’t have anywhere to sell, and the crime will reduce drastically,” Dr Kassim added.

He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration to sustaining high standards in education, including the regular training and re-training of teachers to improve their efficiency.

In response, NSCDC State Commandant Mohammed Kabir congratulated the Chairman on his appointment and expressed readiness to partner fully with NSUBEB.

“We monitor schools through our Safe School Programme, operating in all states with a control unit based at our headquarters in Abuja. If Nasarawa State is willing to key into this initiative, we are ready to collaborate,” Kabir said.

The partnership aims to create a safer learning environment for pupils and teachers and safeguard public investments in basic education infrastructure.

PIAK

Kebbi Government to Commission Ultra-Modern Veterinary Hospital

Manomsi Mallum
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Kebbi Government to Commission Ultra-Modern Veterinary Hospital

The Kebbi State Government is poised to commission an ultra-modern specialist veterinary hospital, set to serve as a major hub for animal healthcare across Northern Nigeria.

The facility, whose construction had been abandoned for 13 years, has now been revived by the current administration and is expected to be completed and commissioned by 2026.

Speaking on the development, Commissioner for Animal Health, Husbandry, and Fisheries, Kabiru Usman Alarama, said the project reflects the state’s commitment to enhancing animal health services within and beyond its borders.

Kebbi State, known for its robust livestock economy, boasts 25 grazing reserves, 74 reserves in 21 local government areas, and 76 livestock markets that draw traders from neighboring countries, including Niger and the Benin Republic.

The state-of-the-art hospital will house a central administrative block, digital mobile X-ray units, a fully equipped laboratory, a pharmacy, storage facilities, an animal feed processing unit, and a theatre for surgical procedures.

Read Also: Over 1,600 Measles Cases Reported in Zamfara—NGO

There will also be dedicated sections for small and large animals, ensuring comprehensive care for diverse species.

Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Ibrahim Al-Heri Senchi outlined the hospital’s advanced features, while Permanent Secretary Hajiya Ramatu Dabai encouraged the public to embrace veterinary care to safeguard their animals from preventable diseases.

The contractor, Alhaji Muhammad Kiriwa, confirmed that the project has reached 99 percent completion and assured that the facility will soon be open for public use.

This initiative underlines the Kebbi State Government’s resolve to strengthen animal welfare, support veterinary services, and promote economic growth through improved livestock health infrastructure.

 

Coalition Urges Court to accelerate Ruling on Kano Emirate Dispute

Peace Piak Kanu
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Coalition Urges Court to accelerate Ruling on Kano Emirate Dispute

A coalition of political analysts and democracy advocates has called on the Supreme Court of Nigeria to expedite its ruling on the lingering Kano Emirate dispute, warning that further delay could lead to chaos and deepening divisions in the state.

The Coalition of Political Analysts Forum, Democracy Protectors and Good Governance, made the call during a press briefing, citing concern over the prolonged legal battle and its destabilising effect on Kano’s social and political fabric.

Led by Executive Director Comrade Al-Amin Albarra and National Secretary Malam Saminu Abubakar, the group appealed to the apex court to offer clear guidance on the constitutional powers relating to the creation and restructuring of traditional institutions within Nigeria’s democratic framework.

“The dispute is a constitutional matter that requires a clear and authoritative ruling from the Supreme Court,” the coalition stated.

The group noted that the conflict, which has persisted for over a year, has polarised the people of Kano along lines of ethnic identity and divided loyalty, heightening the risk of civil unrest.

They warned that failure to promptly resolve the matter could escalate into a broader crisis, urging the judiciary to consider the wider implications of the delay.

“The court’s decision will provide clarity and certainty on the legal implications of the dispute and help prevent future conflicts,” the coalition said.

The group concluded by emphasising the need for judicial intervention to restore order and ensure the continued stability of one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states.

PIAK

Iran Demands IAEA End Double Standards, Resume Cooperation

FELA OLAGUNJU
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Iran Demands IAEA End Double Standards, Resume Cooperation

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday called on the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to abandon what he described as “double standards” if it hopes to restore cooperation with Tehran on its nuclear program, according to news reports.

Last week, Pezeshkian signed into law a bill suspending Iran’s collaboration with the IAEA. The agency subsequently withdrew its final inspectors from Iranian nuclear facilities, escalating tensions between the sides.

Strained relations between Iran and the IAEA have worsened in the wake of joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian nuclear sites in June. Both countries justified the attacks as preventive measures against Iran developing a nuclear weapon—an accusation Tehran strongly denies, insisting its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.

In a phone call with European Council President Antonio Costa, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s conditions for re-engagement with the IAEA.

“Continued cooperation with the agency depends on its willingness to correct its biased approach to Iran’s nuclear file,” he said, according to Iranian media.

Pezeshkian also issued a warning to Western nations, stating, “Any renewed aggression against Iran will be met with a firmer and more regrettable response.”

Tehran has accused the IAEA of enabling the strikes by passing a resolution that deemed Iran in violation of its nuclear non-proliferation obligations, an action Iran views as a green light for hostile military intervention.

“The agency’s failure to uphold impartiality in its reports undermines its credibility and casts serious doubt on its neutrality,” Pezeshkian added.

The attacks triggered a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, during which Tehran launched waves of missiles and drones at Israeli territory.

Since then, IAEA inspectors have not been granted access to Iranian nuclear sites, despite repeated appeals by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who has said restoring oversight in Iran remains his top priority.

Reuters/s.s

Over 1,600 Measles Cases Reported In Zamfara – NGO

Manomsi Mallum
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Over 1,600 Measles Cases Reported In Zamfara – NGO

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has raised concern over a major measles outbreak in the Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, reporting over 1,600 suspected cases across 11 wards, with 24 child deaths recorded so far in 2025.

According to Mr Abdullahi Mohammed Ali, MSF Head of Mission in Nigeria, the situation is deteriorating rapidly as children under five—many already suffering from malnutrition, malaria, and eye infections—face a compounded public health crisis.

Ali attributed the crisis to vaccine shortages and security challenges, which have severely disrupted routine immunisation campaigns.

Read Also: Medical Association Urges Government to Resolve Staff Shortage, Entitlements

A vaccination exercise carried out in June 2024 managed to reach only 59 percent of eligible children, leaving a significant portion of the population unprotected.

“The children in Zurmi are facing a double crisis of disease and hunger, with high levels of malnutrition making them more susceptible to illness,” Ali said.

MSF, in partnership with the Zamfara State Ministry of Health, has since launched an emergency measles vaccination campaign to contain the outbreak.

The humanitarian organisation has called on all health partners and government authorities to urgently support the campaign and ensure full vaccination coverage for children in the affected communities.

Ali emphasised that beyond vaccinations, there is an urgent need to address the underlying health vulnerabilities, particularly malnutrition, which weakens children’s immune systems and increases the severity of measles and other illnesses.

MSF is currently providing clinical care, nutritional support, and health education in the area, while urging for greater investment in preventive healthcare to protect children in conflict-affected and underserved regions such as Zamfara.

 

Taiwan Showcases U.S Tanks Despite Growing Drone Threats

FELA OLAGUNJU
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0
Taiwan Showcases U.S Tanks Despite Growing Drone Threats

Taiwan’s military showcased the firepower of its newly acquired U.S.-made M1A2T Abrams tanks on Thursday, marking their first public appearance as part of the island’s broader efforts to bolster defence capabilities against potential Chinese aggression.

Four of the advanced main battle tanks were seen navigating through muddy terrain at a training ground in Hsinchu County, firing at both moving and stationary targets. The demonstration came during the second day of Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang military drills, which simulate combat across air, sea, and land.

President Lai Ching-te, wearing a combat helmet, observed the exercise and praised the tank’s performance. “Whether in terms of strike power or mobility, this is undoubtedly the most formidable tank on the battlefield,” he said. “Each enhancement in our military capability adds another layer of protection for our nation and our people.”

The Abrams tanks, part of a total order of 108, are the first new tanks Taiwan has received in 24 years. The initial batch of 38 was delivered in December 2024, with the remainder expected by the end of 2026.

The exercises come at a time of heightened military pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory and has increased its military activity near the island in recent years. Lai’s administration hopes the drills will demonstrate Taiwan’s readiness to defend itself, not only to Beijing but also to international partners, particularly the United States, its primary defence supplier.

The show of force also precedes a key parliamentary by-election on July 26, where Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) aims to regain legislative control.

Despite the Abrams’ reputation as a top-tier battle tank, defence analysts caution that modern warfare, particularly lessons from the Russia-Ukraine war, has exposed even elite armoured units to significant threats from drones and advanced anti-tank systems.

“The Abrams is a powerful and adaptable asset, especially in urban and coastal defence,” said one regional military attaché. “But Taiwan will need to integrate strong counter-drone capabilities to protect these tanks on the battlefield.”

Major General Chou Kuang-i, head of the 584th Armoured Brigade, noted that the tanks are not yet officially commissioned but are expected to enter active service later this year. Deployment will be based on current threat assessments and tactical demands, he said.

Singapore-based defence scholar Thomas Lim added that Taiwan may need to position these prized assets on elevated terrain or use drone countermeasures to safeguard them in a future conflict. “This isn’t unique to the Abrams; it’s a modern battlefield challenge,” he said.

President Lai echoed that sentiment, expressing confidence that the M1A2T will eventually integrate with drone and tech-based tactics to support Taiwan’s strategic defence goals.

As part of the broader Han Kuang exercise, Taiwan is also conducting civilian defence drills to enhance public resilience. On Thursday, supermarket chain PX Mart conducted evacuation simulations in three locations, with staff and customers guided to basement shelters during simulated air raids.

Deputy Secretary-General of the National Security Council, Lin Fei-fan, emphasised the importance of full-spectrum preparedness. “These drills remind us that both government and civil society must be ready for all scenarios,” he said, highlighting the growing risks Taiwan faces.

In response to Taiwan’s exercises, China’s Ministry of Defence dismissed them as nothing but a bluff.

Nevertheless, Taiwan’s message is clear: it intends to be ready, militarily and civically, in the face of growing regional threats.

Reuters/s.s

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