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PDP Urges Unity at Eid-el Maulud

Peace Piak Kanu
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PDP Urges Unity at Eid-el Maulud

Chika Eze, Abuja

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has felicitated with Nigerians and Muslims, on the celebration of this year’s Eid-el Maulud, urging citizens to use the occasion to promote national rebirth and strengthen the bonds of unity, love, and peace across the country.

The party noted that Eid-el Maulud, which marks the birth of the Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW), is a celebration that offers Nigerians, especially leaders, the opportunity to retrace their steps, seek divine guidance, and embrace the Prophet’s teachings of justice, humility, and service to humanity.

“We call on Nigerians to continue to show love and compassion to one another, remain steadfast in prayer for the nation, and work together in building a country founded on unity, justice, and shared prosperity.

“This is a time to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and a renewed commitment to national development,” it added.

PIAK

Gates Foundation Commends Nigeria’s Progress on Gender Equality 

Omowumi Samuel
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Gates Foundation Commends Nigeria’s Progress on Gender Equality 

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has commended Nigeria’s bold steps in advancing gender equality and inclusive growth, even as global donor support for women’s programmes declines.

Delivering a keynote at the Nigeria Gender and Inclusion Summit 2025 (GS-25) in Abuja, Mr. Ekenem Isichei,  Deputy Director of Programme Advocacy and Communications at the Gates Foundation Nigeria Office, praised the government’s policy reforms and achievements that have positioned Nigeria among global leaders in women’s empowerment.

He said; “Last year, Nigeria advanced 25 ranks on the World Economic Forum Gender Gap Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Sub-Index, from 49th place to 24th, surpassing the government’s target of reaching the Top 25 by 2028.”

Isichei hailed the adoption of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy and Action Plan under the Ministry of Women Affairs, supported by Finance, Budget and National Planning. He said the initiative provided a strong blueprint for lifting up Nigerian women and girls in critical sectors.

He said; “The WEE Policy is a strong blueprint for lifting up Nigerian women and girls in sectors where they are most present: agriculture, entrepreneurship, education, emerging industries, and in the formal labor force.”

Isichei also applauded Lagos and Kaduna States for spearheading domestication of the WEE Policy, noting that at least 14 more states are actively engaging the process.

READ ALSO:Women Affairs Minister Seeks Policy on Gender Inclusion

The Foundation’s Deputy Director highlighted measurable improvements in maternal health and labor force participation, crediting Nigeria’s strong policy environment and collaboration with civil society and private partners.

He said; “The number of women in Nigeria who have died during childbirth has dropped… in large part due to access to medicines.”

Isichei further praised government reforms such as the relaunch of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF 2.0) and the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp)*, which have strengthened accountability and streamlined funding flows.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s progress, Isichei noted a sharp decline in donor support to women’s programmes globally.

“Since we gathered last year, bilateral Official Development Assistance to Nigeria has dropped 40%, and programs that intentionally support women’s health or empowerment were especially targeted,” he stated.

Isichei revealed that funding for maternal and child health in Nigeria alone has dropped by 67 percent.

Against this decline, he reiterated the Foundation’s new global investment to fill gaps in women’s health research and innovation.

“This, in part, motivated the Foundation’s announcement last month that it will commit 2.5 billion dollars through 2030 to accelerate research and development exclusively on women’s health — and encouraging others to co-invest,”Isichei explained

He challenged all stakeholders; government, private sector, and civil society  to ensure that policies translate into delivery and tangible impact.

“We need more than policies. We need delivery. It is not enough for women-focused programmes to be approved. The funds must flow — on time and transparently,”Isichei said

He further stressed that “investing in women is both a moral and economic imperative.

“Investing in women is not charity. It is strategy. Backing women-led businesses is not just the right thing — it is smart business.”

Isichei underscored the centrality of women’s inclusion to Nigeria’s future, saying “We are not building systems for women alone. We are building a better Nigeria — for every family, every community, and every generation.”

He noted that;  “The test of inclusion is not the summit. The test is what we change after the applause dies down.”

The two day summit organised by the Policy Innovation Centre,  with the theme “New Voices and New Approaches for Accelerating an Inclusive Society,” is ongoing with Policy experts, Government representatives,  and stakeholders  participating in dialogues and plenaries to move Nigeria and Africa forward.

Maulid Nabiyy: Kwara Governor Calls for Unity and Peace

Peace Piak Kanu
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Maulid Nabiyy: Kwara Governor Calls for Unity and Peace

The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has called on Muslims to remain steadfast on the path of guidance and avoid divisive tendencies as the World commemorates the 2025 Maulid Nabiyy, the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

In a statement he personally signed on Friday, Governor AbdulRazaq urged the Muslim community to shun bitter partisanship and embrace unity in the collective interest of humanity.

“As humans with varying experiences and perspectives, it is perfectly in order if we don’t agree on all things every time; yet, that should not make us enemies, disrespect ourselves, or deter us from prioritising things that matter to our collective humanity,” he said.

The Governor cautioned against allowing political or social differences to tear society apart, stressing that such divisions undermine the message of the Prophet.

Governor AbdulRazaq emphasised that the true way to honour Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is to live by his teachings of peace, compassion, and tolerance.

“During this commemoration of the noble birth of the Prophet and beyond, let us show our love for him by following his clear message and acting true to his admonitions,” he stated.

Governor AbdulRazaq congratulated the Muslim ummah in Kwara State as well as the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, on the occasion, praying for Allah’s blessings, forgiveness, and tranquillity for the people of the state and Nigeria at large.

He expressed hope that the Maulid Nabiyy commemoration would inspire greater commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence among citizens.

Governor AbdulRazaq is also the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF.

PIAK

NBBF Women’s Basketball League Play-Off Starts September

Mosunmola Ore
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NBBF Women’s Basketball League Play-Off Starts September

The stage is set for the 2025 Zenith Bank/NBBF Women’s Basketball League Final 8 Play-Off, which starts on 14 September at the National Stadium, Lagos.

The championship marks the climax of Nigeria’s premier women’s basketball league, with eight outstanding teams competing for the coveted national title, and a place in continental competition.

READ ALSO: NBBF To Revive Female Basketball League After 2023 Elections

The finalists are MFM Basketball Club, First Bank, Dolphins, Bayelsa Whales, Nigeria Customs, Titans Basket, Air Warriors, and Royal Aces, representing both the Atlantic and Savannah Conferences.

Their qualification followed a rigorous season that began with the first phase in Benin and Abuja, before the decisive zonal playoffs in Ilorin and Jos.

Each team displayed remarkable resilience to advance, showing the growing depth and competitiveness of women’s basketball in Nigeria under the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).

Defending champions MFM enter as frontrunners after a dominant run, boasting talented players and strong team chemistry that makes them a formidable force once again.

First Bank, five-time winners, are considered serious challengers, drawing from their rich experience and seasoned players who understand the pressure of high-stakes playoff basketball.

Dolphins and Bayelsa Whales are tipped as dark horses, aiming to upset the balance and prove their ability to compete against the more established clubs.

From the Savannah Conference, Titans Basket, Air Warriors, and Royal Aces are determined to showcase their strength and close the perceived gap with Atlantic teams.

Beyond the competition, the championship provides a vital platform to promote female athletes and encourage younger talents aspiring to play basketball at professional and international levels.

Former tennis star, Rolake Olagbegi and respected sports administrator Godwin Enakhena have both pledged their support to MFM, urging the side to defend their crown.

Olagbegi, who presented training balls to the team, encouraged the players to maintain discipline, focus, and mental strength throughout the demanding eight-day competition.

Enakhena highlighted the importance of motivation and teamwork, reminding the MFM squad that defending a title often requires greater sacrifice than winning it for the first time.

Basketball enthusiasts in Lagos are expected to throng the National Stadium to witness thrilling contests and celebrate the growing appeal of women’s basketball in the country.

The Final 8 Play-Off will run from Sept. 14 to 22, featuring group games, semi-finals, and the highly anticipated grand finale on the closing day.

 

 

NAN

Eid-ul-Maulud: NOA Calls for National Unity, Peace

Peace Piak Kanu
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0
Eid-ul-Maulud: NOA Calls for National Unity, Peace

Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on all Nigerians to uphold the rule of law and unite for the peace and development of the country.

The Director General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the call while felicitating with the Muslim faithful across the country on the occasion of Eid-ul-Maulud, the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

In a statement, Mr. Issa-Onilu urged Muslims to “embrace forgiveness and draw closer to the noble life and teachings of the Prophet, which remain a guide for peaceful and upright living.”

According to the Director General NOA, “Unity among Nigerians remains a vital weapon in the fight against insecurity,” stressing that “when citizens stand together and actively support security efforts, the nation is better positioned to overcome violence, restore peace, and build lasting stability.”

He described Prophet Muhammad as a true embodiment of unity, peace, and compassion, emphasising the need for all Muslim faithful to “draw lessons from his teachings and traditions by fostering tolerance and promoting national unity.”

The Director General NOA further prayed for “peace, unity, and progress across Nigeria,” asking for “wisdom and strength to guide President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he works to lead the nation toward growth and development.”

PIAK

UK Trade Envoy Pledges Deeper Investment Partnership

Omowumi Samuel
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UK Trade Envoy Pledges Deeper Investment Partnership

The UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi MP, has reiterated the UK’s commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment relations.

The UK Trade Envoy stated this during her four-day visit to Nigeria.

The visit marked a significant step in enhancing the UK-Nigeria Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), with a focus on unlocking new opportunities across fintech, manufacturing and agriculture.

Eshalomi, along side the Director-General for Investment at the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT), Ceri Smith, and His Majesty’s Deputy Trade Commissioner to Africa, Ben Ainsley, engaged in high-level meetings and strategic dialogues aimed at fostering collaboration and driving inclusive economic growth.

READ ALSO:Nigeria, Brazil Sign New Trade and Innovation Agreements

As part of the visit, Florence Eshalomi MP co-hosted the ETIP Business Dialogue alongside the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI).

The dialogue brought together UK and Nigerian business leaders to identify and address non-tariff barriers, with actionable outcomes set to inform ongoing efforts to improve the business environment and support sustainable development.

Commenting on her visit, the UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi MP, said the visit has enhanced the relations between UK and Nigeria.

“Nigeria is a powerhouse of innovation and enterprise, and the UK is proud to be a strategic partner in its growth journey. This visit has deepened our commercial ties and opened new doors for collaboration across sectors that matter most to our shared prosperity – from fintech and agriculture to manufacturing. We are committed to supporting Nigerian businesses as they scale globally and to ensuring our partnership delivers real, inclusive impact,” she said.

The Trade Envoy highlighted British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, and its latest $7.5m investment in Babban Gona, a leading Nigerian agricultural enterprise.

“This strategic investment underscores the UK’s role in supporting food security, creating jobs, and strengthening economic resilience within Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” Eshalomi said

Key bilateral meetings held with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, and senior executives from LemFi, Interswitch and Zenith Bank, focused on expanding financial sector ties and exploring opportunities for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and capital market engagement via the London Stock Exchange.

In support of Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem, the Trade Envoy also participated in the Tech Roundtable, introducing Nigerian tech founders to the UK’s Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP).

The session featured insights from DBT leadership, showcasing the UK’s investment landscape and its support for future IPOs.

The visit ended with in a strong UK presence at GITEX Nigeria 2025, where Florence Eshalomi MP moderated a panel titled “Nigeria’s Fintech Revolution: From Local Champions to Global Contenders”, featuring Kuda Bank and PiggyVest – two Nigerian fintech leaders scaling globally with support from the UK’s GEP.

APC Boosts Ranks with High-Profile Defectors in Gombe

Confidence Okwuchi
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APC Boosts Ranks with High-Profile Defectors in Gombe

By Rebecca Mu’azu, Gombe

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Gombe State has received a major boost with the defection of prominent businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Jerry Damara, from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Mr. Damara, a well-known figure in Kaltungo Local Government Area, noted for his grassroots and community development initiatives, joined the APC alongside former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Mr. Tha’anda Rubainu, and several other former PDP members.

During a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya in Gombe, Mr. Damara pledged his full support for the APC-led administration.

He officially announced his defection by presenting his membership card to the governor and commended him for the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, which he said have significantly transformed the state.

Mr. Damara cited two key figures as his inspiration for joining the APC.

 “I was inspired by the Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya. It took me some time to return to Gombe, but when I did, I saw real infrastructure development. I’m a lover of infrastructure because it’s my business. I ran to his office and said, ‘Your Excellency, what is going on here?’ He laughed, and I told him I would follow him,” Mr. Damara recounted.

Mr. Damara also pointed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as another source of inspiration.

He specifically mentioned the administration’s ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the road network connecting Lagos to Calabar and Sokoto.

“When I saw him declare the road project from Lagos to Calabar and Sokoto, I said, ‘The messiah has come,’ and I decided I would follow him. That’s how it happened. Today, we have defected, alongside other notable PDP stakeholders from Gombe South, including former Deputy Governor Tha’anda Rubainu, to the APC. And we’ve moved for good,” he said.

Governor Yahaya welcomed the new members, describing their defection as a significant boost to the APC’s political strength in the state.

According to him, the growing number of high-profile defections signaled increasing public confidence in his administration.

“This is a landmark moment. The strength of the opposition in Gombe is rapidly fading,” the governor declared.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Confidence Okwuchi

Maritime Diplomacy: Nigeria To Host IMO Secretary-General

Lantana Nasir
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Maritime Diplomacy: Nigeria To Host IMO Secretary-General

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez is scheduled to embark on a three-day working visit to Nigeria from October 2nd to 4th, 2025.

The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola made the statement during a courtesy visit to the Agency’s headquarters by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen.

Dr. Mobereola commended the FOC for sustaining the long-standing and productive collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA, describing it as a model for maritime sector development.

“The visit of the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command is yet another demonstration of the deep and successful partnership between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy, which has continued to yield positive outcomes for the maritime sector and the nation at large,” he stated. 

The NIMASA DG emphasised that the successes achieved through this partnership, particularly the reduction of piracy and maritime crimes, not only in Nigerian waters but across the Gulf of Guinea, serve as a template that can be replicated by other government agencies and regional partners.

He further disclosed that during his visit, the IMO Secretary-General will tour Nigerian Navy installations as well as NIMASA facilities in Lagos, underscoring the significance of Nigeria’s efforts in enhancing maritime security and promoting international maritime cooperation.

In his remarks, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen commended NIMASA’s current management for its sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, noting that “such synergy remains critical to the growth and stability of the maritime sector.”

 

 

President Tinubu Commends IGP Egbetokun’s Exemplary Leadership

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
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President Tinubu Commends IGP Egbetokun’s Exemplary Leadership

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Inspector General of Police IGP, Kayode Egbetokun for his exemplary leadership in security.

The President noted that under IGP Egbetokun’s leadership, the Nigeria Police Force has consistently shown courage and resilience in addressing evolving security challenges.

In a congratulatory message issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the he felicitated the Inspector General of Police (IGP) on his birthday.

He joined officers and management of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in celebrating Mr. Egbetokun, praising his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the nation, which continues to earn widespread commendation.

“Under your leadership, the Nigeria Police Force continues to demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of evolving security challenges in our country and worldwide.

“As you celebrate this special day, I salute your dedication to service, your efforts to uphold law and order, and your pursuit of reforms to strengthen the integrity of the police,” the President said

President Tinubu prayed for renewed strength, wisdom, and courage for the IGP as he continues to serve the nation.

 

 

Hauwa Abu

Nigerian Government Considers New Fiscal Policies For Health Financing

patience ameh
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Nigerian Government Considers New Fiscal Policies For Health Financing

The Nigerian Government says it is exploring new fiscal policy options aimed at mobilising resources to improve health financing in the country, emphasising that investment in human capital remains the most valuable asset for national development.

Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele made this known on Thursday during the National Health Financing Policy Dialogue held in Abuja.

The dialogue which has as theme “Reimagining the Future of Health Financing in Nigeria”, was organised by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and partners.

READ MORE:Nigerian Government Inaugurates Health Sector Bargaining Committee

The dialogue seeks to reimagine financing models that make healthcare more equitable, sustainable, and accessible for all Nigerians.

The event comes at a critical time as African countries grapple with fragile health systems, fiscal pressures, and the realities of donor transitions.

Oyedele outlined a framework that leverages taxation, incentives, and partnerships to drive sustainable healthcare funding.

According to him, “statutory contributions such as mandatory health insurance schemes and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) would be strengthened to expand coverage, while earmarked taxes on “sin goods” and carbon emissions can provide dedicated funding for health.”

He also recommended tax-deductible donations to encourage philanthropy in the health sector, alongside tariff waivers and zero-rated taxes on health services, equipment, and materials to reduce costs for providers and patients.

“The government is also exploring impact investing and public-private partnerships with concessionary tax rates as a sustainable model to complement public funding,” he said.

Mr Oyedele stressed that fiscal policies must go beyond revenue mobilisation to influence healthy behaviors, incentive businesses in food, nutrition, and wellness, and prepare the health system for future emergencies.

Quoting a popular saying, he remarked: “A healthy man has a thousand wishes; an unhealthy man has only one.”

“Our policy must therefore prioritise prevention, invest in people, and ensure measurable outcomes that can guide future decisions,” Oyedele said.

The chairman noted that data-driven planning and periodic review of fiscal measures would be critical as Nigeria’s demographics and health needs evolved.

Meanwhile, Dr Donald Kaberuka, the AU Special Envoy to Mobilise, International Economic Support for the Continental Fight Against, COVID-19, highlighted a key lesson from the pandemic.

According to him, “when governments, development partners, and the private sector work in genuine solidarity, Africa can overcome any challenge.”

Dr Kaberuka said that by pairing sustainable domestic resource mobilisation with targeted international support, the continent could build resilient health systems, reinforce unity, and secure a stronger, self-reliant future for all Africans.

The discussion from the dialogue highlighted how Nigeria and African countries can address persistent gaps in health financing to improve health outcomes for their populations.

Key areas of focus include expanding health insurance coverage, strengthening primary healthcare, promoting domestic and innovative financing, and fostering collaboration across government, the private sector, and civil society.

It also emphasised that evidence-based policies are critical to ensure health resources reach those who need them most, reduce out-of-pocket spending, and build resilient, equitable health systems capable of delivering quality care across Nigeria and the continent.

The National Health Financing Dialogue brought together government officials, legislators, development partners, and civil society to chart strategies for accountable and sustainable health financing.

 

 

NAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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