Kebbi governor approves N309m for foreign scholarships

Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, has approved the sum of N309,584,041.80 for the payment of foreign scholarships for students from the state studying in India and Egypt.

The State Commissioner of Higher Education, Alhaji Isah Abubakar-Tunga, announced this in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.

The commissioner said, “The sum of N228,150,148:00 is for 63 students studying in India, while N81,433,893:80 is for 23 students studying in Egypt.

“The remaining 50 foreign students shall have their expenses settled within the shortest possible time.”

According to the commissioner, in February 2024, the governor paid local scholarships to all the state students studying in 36 tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

He said the Ministry remained appreciative of all the efforts of the governor in the higher education sector.

Kebbi governor approves N309m for foreign scholarships

NAPTIP in Gombe recovers two trafficked children from Abuja, Lagos

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, has recovered two minors who were suspected to have been trafficked by their relatives.

DAILY POST gathered that the children, four-month-old Aisha Shehu and 11-year-old Usman Kabiru, were rescued from Abuja and Lagos, respectively.

The Gombe State Commander of NAPTIP, Aminu Shira, confirmed the rescue operations, stating the agency’s commitment to protecting lives.

Shira said the recovery of the children followed the arrest of 16 suspects by the police in January, with investigations revealing cases of child trafficking, sale of babies, and sexual exploitation.

“If you may recall that on 10th January, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force Gombe State Command handed over 16 suspects of criminal conspiracy and child trafficking to NAPTIP Gombe State Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.

“The victims were interviewed and also gave statements voluntarily and later admitted into the NAPTIP Command shelter to undergo rehabilitation process.

“Two other victims involved in the case, Aisha Shehu “F” Four Months old and Usman Kabiru 11 years old “M” were recovered and rescued by NAPTIP operatives in Abuja and Lagos respectively.

“After a careful investigation and arriving at the fact-finding it became evidently clear that it was a case of child trafficking, sale of babies and sexual exploitation and these have been established against the suspects,” Shira narrated.

Shira also disclosed that NAPTIP frowns at trafficking, stating that “Upon the conclusion of the investigation of alleged child trafficking, sale of babies and sexual exploitation, the nine suspects have been charged for legal actions appropriately and their cases filed before the Federal and State Higher Court Gombe Judiciary Division with different count charges on the basis of the evidence adduced for their possible prosecution.”

Speaking further, the State Commander added that the agency is not only interested in their prosecution but also in resettling victims.

“Three involved victims were empowered by the Command to fully rehabilitate and reintegrate into the society. Two female victims have been enrolled into skills acquisition training of tailoring for six months here in Gombe and the Command sponsored the financial bill for the training and monthly allowance for the victims during the period of the training.

“Another, a male victim, has enrolled into the Sheikh Jafar Memorial Primary School Arawa Gombe for the continuation of his education, which is also being sponsored by the NAPTIP.

“Finally, NAPTIP as an Agency will always remain fully committed towards the prevention of all forms of exploitation against women and children and will uplift and liberate the vulnerable in the communities and we continue to work tirelessly to ensure a safe and better society,” Shira declared.

NAPTIP in Gombe recovers two trafficked children from Abuja, Lagos

Gaps in girls’ education prompted formation of alternative high school – Oluremi Tinubu

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has described her support for the education of the girl child as a response to the yawning gap in girls’ education in Nigeria.

She made this known while launching the Alternative High Schools for Girls on Tuesday in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital.

The First Lady noted: “This ceremony marks the beginning of an opportunity for a new chapter and a chance for a promising future for exceptional young girls and women who evolve through the door of this school. I introduced the idea of the establishment of an alternative high school for girls, a vision that was accepted and utilised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education in 2007 when my husband was the governor of Lagos State, and this particular school still runs to date.

“My motivation as an educationist and a lifelong teacher stems from a desire to see young girls and women who dropped out of school due to unplanned pregnancies, cultural barriers, economic and financial reasons and many more, have a second chance to acquire higher education and valuable skills to enable them reach their full potential in life.

“In a world where every girl deserves the opportunity to try and reach their fullest potential, it’s sad to witness the barriers that stand in the way of their education. No doubt, without education, girls will lack the necessary skills to support themselves and access information to make informed decisions about their health and future.”

She also maintained that the rate of school dropout was a stark reminder of the need for alternative solutions to educational pursuits.

She therefore revealed that Osun State was chosen as the location for the school through a transparent and unbiased raffle process at a strategic meeting with the state first ladies.

In his address, Governor Ademola Adeleke assured the First Lady that his administration would follow up and provide needed support to ensure a robust operation upon completion of the school. Adeleke assured that his administration is also committed to supporting girl child education.

“We have introduced a series of programmes that strengthen the capacity of families to provide basic needs. Hence, we emphasise workers’ welfare as a critical first-line item in our five-point agenda.

“We also focus on stopping the crisis of sexual violence against women. To that end, Osun is the first state to implement the resolution of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum on action against sexual violence. We have met with the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and resolved to set up mobile courts to try domestic sexual violence matters. Additionally, we are compiling a list of unfairly jailed girls and women to get them released. This is in addition to an agenda of empowering women through the cooperative loan scheme.”

In his address, the Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education, Dr Ahmed Bobboi, hailed the contributions of the Adeleke administration to the growth and development of universal basic education in the state.

According to him: “The administration’s records enhance the confidence of UBEC and the Office of the First Lady that the new school will realise its targets and even surpass them.”

Gaps in girls’ education prompted formation of alternative high school – Oluremi Tinubu

Transport stakeholders canvass increased safety education for drivers and riders

18 April 2024, Lagos, Nigeria ― Transport stakeholders drawn from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Nigerian Police Force, and the ride-hailing company inDrive have agreed to join forces in deepening awareness of safety issues among drivers and riders.

This submission was made during the Safety Education event organised by inDrive on Thursday in partnership with the Nigerian Police Force and the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation.

Speaking at the occasion, the Director of Transport Operations, Lagos Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Olasunkanmi Ojowuro emphasised that all relevant stakeholders should intensify yearly efforts to train commuters and drivers, focusing on safety measures and road signage.

Ojowuro equally called on law enforcement agencies to step up to ensure adequate enforcement of violators of traffic laws in the State,
He stated that the Lagos State Government was playing its part in providing the much-needed infrastructure to enhance road safety and providing manpower support.
He urged all road users to adhere strictly to traffic and safety laws as enshrined in the state’s guiding principles, adding that this would help reduce the number of accidents leading to deaths and injuries and ensure the efficient management of traffic flows.
Also speaking, Senior Business Development Representative inDrive Timothy Oladimeji highlighted the newly added safety features on the inDrive app that form part of inDrive’s existing Safety Center. These features allow users to add more emergency contacts, make it easier to share ride information with authorities, and improve in-app communication between riders and drivers.

Oladimeji stated that the ride-hailing app has many security features that can assist the rider and the driver against security threats. Highlighting some safety features, he urged road users, including drivers, to avoid any act that goes against the tenets of safety on the road.Also speaking, Senior Business Development Representative inDrive Timothy Oladimeji highlighted the newly added safety features on the inDrive app that form part of inDrive’s existing Safety Center. These features allow users to add more emergency contacts, make it easier to share ride information with authorities, and improve in-app communication between riders and drivers.
The latest updates to the safety features are part of the inDrive Safety Pact, enhancing a comprehensive suite of safety measures. These include driver verification and onboarding, real-time ride sharing with trusted contacts, and the ability for both riders and drivers to make informed choices based on ratings, reviews, and full details of rides. This empowers users to make safety-conscious decisions, reinforcing inDrive’s commitment to putting the power of choice firmly in the hands of its users.
Oladimeji stated that the ride-hailing app has many security features that can assist the rider and the driver against security threats. Highlighting some safety features, he urged road users, including drivers, to avoid any act that goes against the tenets of safety on the road.

“Your belongings should always be with you, whether you are in the car or not. Users should not enter cars whose description does not match the car description on the inDrive app. Should you have an incident where you feel unsafe, have your belongings stolen, or even something smaller than that, it should be reported on the inDrive app through feedback or support. On the inDrive app, all users must give feedback about a driver before a new ride can be requested,” he said.
He emphasized that inDrive is fully committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies. The ride-hailing company stands ready to collaborate proactively with relevant authorities to identify and address any criminal activities that may occur during commutes. He emphasized that inDrive is fully committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies. The ride-hailing company stands ready to collaborate proactively with relevant authorities to identify and address any criminal activities that may occur during commutes.
“If there is an incident with a driver or vice versa, a police report should be filed so that there is a record of the incident. If the passenger wants to press charges, the police will contact inDrive to get the necessary details of the driver, and they will work hand in hand with the authorities to fulfil the services they have made to passengers. These are safety measures taken after a trip,” he said.
In her remarks, Chief Superintendent of Police, Nigerian Police Force, Mrs. Funmilayo Omosehin, stressed the need for drivers to be more responsible while driving.
According to Omosehin, most road users have either been harassed or arrested by traffic officers because they disobeyed traffic rules and regulations.

About inDrive
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform headquartered in Mountain View, California, USA. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 175 million times and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance, courier delivery, and employment search.

inDrive operates in more than 700 cities across 47 countries. It supports local communities via its peer-to-peer payment model and community empowerment programs, which help advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality, and other vital initiatives.

For more information, visit www.inDrive.com

Transport stakeholders canvass increased safety education for drivers and riders

Bauchi governor directs immediate release of counterpart funds to combat malnutrition

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has directed the immediate release of counterpart funds aimed at improving nutritional status of children across the state.

This is as he assured that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare and well-being of children and women, as well as effective and efficient maternal healthcare delivery services.

Mohammed gave the directive when he received a delegation from the United Nations Children’s’ Fund, UNICEF, led by the Chief of Bauchi Field Office, Dr Tushar Rane, who paid him a courtesy call at the Government House.

The Governor expressed appreciation for UNICEF’s initiatives in the state and pledged support for their programs.

He then mandated relevant agencies to expedite the release of state counterpart funds for UNICEF interventions.

The governor also directed health agencies to ensure effective implementation of healthcare programs, including improving immunization coverage and enhancing the educational sector.

Earlier, the Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Tushar Rane, stated that the collaborative efforts between the European Union and the UNICEF (EU-UNICEF) was to support the Bauchi State government with funds that would enable it to implement the Maternal, Child Health, Education, and Nutrition (MNCHN) Project in the state, for improved family health and foster children’s educational growth.

Bauchi governor directs immediate release of counterpart funds to combat malnutrition

Individuals converted govt schools to relief markets, event centres – Abia Commissioner

Abia State Commissioner for Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche has told the Panel on recovery of government properties and funds that about 300 government schools in the state were allegedly taken over by individuals and faith-based organizations, saying that she made the discovery on her assumption of office.

She said that some of the schools were later converted to relief markets and social event centres.

She stated this while appearing at the Abia State Judiciary Panel of Inquiry on recovery of government properties and funds in Umuahia.

According to her, on assumption of office, she got a report that Comprehensive Secondary School, Okpu-Umuobo in Osisioma Ngwa LGA was allegedly taken over by an individual who claimed that the immediate past governor, Okezie Ikpeazu approved it for National Agricultural Land Development Agency (NALDA) project.

The Commissioner said efforts to trace the documents relating to such handover of government school proved abortive, adding that when she visited the school alongside the General Manager of Greater Aba Development Agency, armed security personnel positioned in the school allegedly fired a gunshot on them, which prompted them to take refugee in one Eze’s Palace until they were rescued by the police from the nearest police station.

Uche said that she had no alternative than to secure a space at Obuwa Community School for the students, adding that she has reported the matter to the Governor Alex Otti.

The Commissioner also prayed the Panel to investigate the activities of the Examination Development Center, Umuahia.

Individuals converted govt schools to relief markets, event centres – Abia Commissioner

Don’t give admission to candidates less than 18 years – FG warns tertiary institutions

The Federal Government has ordered that admission to tertiary institutions should not be given to candidates less than 18 years.

The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman gave the directive on Monday during a monitoring exercise of the ongoing 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory.

He decried the activities of some parent, who were pressuring their underage students to get admissions into tertiary institutions,

The minister said that the 18-year benchmark is in line with the 6-3-3-4 system of education.

“The minimum age of entry into the University is 18, but we have seen students who are 15, 16 years going in for the entrance examination.

“Parents should be encouraged not to push their wards too much. Mostly, it is the pressure of parents that is causing this.

“We are going to look at this development because the candidates are too young to understand what the whole university education is all about.

“This is the period when children migrate from controlled to uncontrolled environments; when they are in charge of their own affairs.

“But, if they are too young, they won’t be able to manage properly. I think that is part of what we are seeing in the Universities today,” he said.

On skill acquisition for those who will not be able to gain admissions into tertiary institutions, Mamman said the ministry is taking skills to pupils from primary school.

“ In overall, it is 20 per cent that can be admitted into the University, Polytechnic and Colleges of Education system.

“So, where will the 80 per cent go to? That is why the issue of skills acquisition is very important.

“Any student who is unable to proceed to tertiary institutions should be able to have a meaningful life after primary and secondary school’s education and the only solution to this is skill acquisition,” he said.

Corroborating the minister’s position on the benchmark of 18 years for admission to tertiary institutions, the JAMB spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin said 18 years is in line with the 6-3-3-4 education system.

The Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu who was in the monitoring team applauded the conduct of the 2024 UTME, particularly, the introduction of online examinations as a way of checking malpractices.

He said the Computer Based Test (CBT) had reduced examination malpractices to the barest minimum.

Sununu commended the Board for setting a simple but high standard for the examination.

Don’t give admission to candidates less than 18 years – FG warns tertiary institutions

Tinubu advocates regional counter-terrorism centre as summit opens in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has called for the establishment of a regional counter-terrorism centre that will serve as a hub for intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building throughout Africa.

The President made the call at the African High-level Meeting on Counter-Terrorism in Abuja on Monday.

He said Africa must take a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, not only through might, but by addressing the root causes of the scourge, which include poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

Tinubu emphasized that while seeking to address the root causes of terrorism, Africa must also attack the roots that feed the evil branch – ransom and illegal mining – as terrorism evolves and perfects ways to continuously finance, re-equip, and re-supply itself for its sinister mission.

“Not only does it kidnap people, it kidnaps precious resources. Billions upon billions of dollars that legitimate governments should be using to sculpt better societies by providing education, healthcare, and food for its people now go to pay for weapons and response to mayhem.

“Look at the illegal mining that plagues so many of our nations today. Those who think illegal mining has no connection with financing terrorism are sorely mistaken.

“The international community has both the moral and legal obligation to help in this cause because it is external finance, not African money, that fuels these illegal operations. We shall be knocking on this door of the international community to answer this call for justice, peace, and fair play.

“Key to our collective efforts against terrorism is the urgent need for a fully operational Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre,” the President stated.

Tinubu however, added that the African region must strengthen existing counter-terrorism structures, such as the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit (RIFU) in Abuja, the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) in Algiers, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) in Addis Ababa.

He underscored the importance of a regional standby force that includes tackling terrorism as part of its mandate, declaring: “It must not be abandoned.”

“I am mindful of the funding, legal, and logistical complexities that face the proper establishment of such a force. However, with a prudent and clearly defined mandate that accords with the international law and respects national sovereignty, such a force can serve as a rapid deployment mechanism, capable of swiftly responding to major threats and bolstering the security of our region.

“Such a force can stand as a strong deterrent to large scale and protracted terrorist operations and the capture, occupation or disruption of strategic land and resources. We must continue to make careful yet meaningful progress toward this goal.

“Establishing an all-inclusive African Union Ministerial Committee on Counter Terrorism is also a high priority as envisaged in the Declaration of the 16th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union Assembly two years ago in May 2022. This would ensure that a forum of high-level government officials meets regularly to assess our counter-terrorism efforts and provide guidance on how to further improve,” he said.

Tinubu advocates regional counter-terrorism centre as summit opens in Abuja

Aurora Tech Award: Changing Narratives with Women in Technology Startups

Technology startups are more than catalysts for growth. They are the engine of growth itself. They solve problems no other sector is addressing with innovative thinking, thus pushing society forward – all while creating jobs, stimulating the economy, and attracting foreign investment.

In today’s evolving economic landscape, technological innovation is already seen as a big tool that is moving the needle in every sector of the economy. From education, transportation, maritime, technology has continued to be a major driver helping to create different opportunities and new industries for the people.

Many developing economies including Nigeria are now catching up to build an innovation-driven economy as governments have become fully involved in the establishment of tech hubs across their countries. In Nigeria alone, tech hubs have become success stories, especially with the emergence of companies such as Flutterwave, Andela among others which sprang up from its creation.

Despite the increasing rise of startup innovators, many women in the rank have become disadvantaged and at best neglected not only in terms of support but also in recognition. This situation has led to the dearth of many businesses which hold the prospect of becoming great enterprises. This trend has elicited concerns that it might well be true that there is a deliberate attempt to deny women the opportunity to fly as they strive to.

For more than a decade now, there has been a deliberate shift in focus from women in tech startups. This is largely due to a number of factors that include bias, stereotypes and low representation of women role models in tech related fields. A research conducted by a leading mobile app, inDrive in three countries- Nigeria, Brazil and Malaysia revealed the same bias against women.

Though the research revealed that the percentage of girls in STEM-related education in Brazil, Malaysia and Nigeria is the same as the percentage of boys, there is still a significant gap between the amount of startups founded by men and women. According to statistics, The Venture Capital funding to female startups is not more than 1%, a clear demonstration of a huge funding gap between men and women in IT i.e. number of female founded startups is significantly less than male in all countries.
As if that is not enough, another statistics obtained by Crunchbase revealed that only 2.3% of venture funding goes to women-led startups.

Poised to change the status quo, inDrive, a mobility app that provides both passengers and drivers a fair deal across 45 countries worldwide has come up with an initiative, Aurora Tech award, to assist and encourage women in tech startups. Until the Aurora Tech award came into focus, many women in innovation entrepreneurship have had to fall by the wayside due to a number of factors ranging from discrimination. The award, which is targeted at providing seed funds for women-led start-ups, was established with a view to helping women unleash their power of innovation.

The Aurora Tech Award 2024, founded in 2020 by inDrive, received an unprecedented 694 applications from 102 countries this year, underscoring the global impact of women in technology and innovation.

In addition to the prestigious recognition, the winners of the Aurora Tech Award received cash prizes of $30,000, $20,000, and $10,000 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively, along with access to an inDrive mentorship program. Through the award, inDrive hopes to set new and fair standards in the venture world.

The Aurora Tech award, an annual global prize for women founders of tech startups, is targeted at breaking down barriers and promoting equality in tech entrepreneurship.

Over the last 3 years, the award has continued to be a veritable platform in identifying and supporting women in tech startups who are committed to making desired changes and solving problems in the society.

Speaking on the rationale behind the award, Public Relations Manager, inDrive, Lineo Thakhisi noted that the company conceptualized the award to raise role models that can go ahead to motivate a lot of women in entrepreneurship particularly in a field that is considered male dominated.

“We believe that local role models play a vital role in shaping the narrative of female entrepreneurship. Their impact extends beyond individual success stories, influencing the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem by fostering diversity, breaking down barriers, and contributing to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive environment for aspiring female founders. For that reason, initiatives such as the Aurora Tech Award, aimed at the creation of local role models, are crucial for women’s empowerment,” Thaksi said.

She further stated that the company is committed to changing the status quo and defying unfair barriers by supporting innovations.

This year, a Nigerian, Folake Owodunni, with a groundbreaking startup, Emergency Response Africa, won the prestigious award. The innovative startup tagged ‘Emergency Response Africa’, according to Owodunni, is dedicated to making healthcare accessible in Africa by providing sustainable and scalable emergency medical services that address critical needs in the Africa region.

On his part, Head of Aurora Tech Award, Ekaterina Smirnova described the milestone achievement of Owodunni as a demonstration of the immense capacity of women all over the world to inspire change and foster innovation through their creative prowess.

Smirnova explained that the groundbreaking feat would serve as great motivation for more women to keep at their creative ingenuity so as to help solve the world ‘s innumerable challenges.

“We celebrate the remarkable achievements of Folake Owodunni, Hannah Töpler, and Sarah Phiri-Molema. Their groundbreaking startups not only address critical needs in their communities but also serve as local role models, inspiring change and fostering innovation. These awards play a vital role in providing much-needed recognition to women in the tech industry, amplifying their contributions, and paving the way for greater gender equality and diversity in innovation,” she said.

The triumph of Owodunni, no doubt, will become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs worldwide, highlighting the transformative power of innovation and determination in driving positive change.

It is interesting to note that a Nigerian, is being recognized for taking the lead to revolutionize healthcare with her innovative thinking. Some of the winners of past editions of the award include Co-Founder and CEO, Tazar, Ainura Sayn, Founder and Director, ‘Gwiji for Women’, Elizabeth Mwangi.

Aurora Tech Award: Changing Narratives with Women in Technology Startups

Zamfara: Residents protest troops’ withdrawal from Bini village

Residents of Bini village in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State have marched to the Government House in Gusau against the removal of military troops from their village.

According to them, the reason for withdrawing the troops was not made known to them, saying they had left their community without security.

The community members which comprises men, women, and their children, carried their foodstuff, mats and other properties along with them to the Government House to express their dismay.

They lamented that some of the community members had been shot by the bandits leaving them with various injuries, insisting that the government should return the troops and deploy an additional contingent to secure the community to guarantee their safety.

State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, and his counterpart in the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Abdul Malik Gajam, received the peaceful protesters.

They assured that the state government is doing its best to ensure the security and safety of the residents in line with their campaign promises, and it will ensure troops are redeployed to protect the Bini community and other troubled communities in the State.

Madawaki also reiterated the Dauda Lawal administration’s stance of not negotiating with the bandits but wanting security forces to go all-out to root them out of the State.

Zamfara: Residents protest troops’ withdrawal from Bini village

AKSACA tasks community leaders on fight against HIV epidemic

Akwa Ibom State Agency for Control of AIDS, AKSACA, has urged traditional rulers and other community leaders in the state to join hands in stemming the tide of HIV/AIDS in their communities.

DAILY POST recalls that Akwa Ibom State has 5.5 per cent HIV prevalence, which is the highest in Nigeria, according to the NAIIS survey conducted in 2018.

The project manager of AKSACA, Dr Enobong Akpan, during a sensitisation workshop tagged “HIV/AIDS and Community Leadership: Role of Stakeholders,” for traditional rulers and stakeholders in Uyo senatorial district said effective communication of accurate HIV/AIDS information by community leaders would engender increased access to prevention and treatment services.

Akpan noted that the workshop, organised in partnership with Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, ECEWS, was aimed at empowering the leaders of traditional institutions and community gatekeepers on how to play an effective role as stakeholders in ending HIV as a public threat by 2030.

He encouraged the traditional rulers to shun various community-based behaviours and attitudes, including sociocultural practices that encourage HIV transmission.

While urging them to be intentional in promoting practices that discourage the spread of HIV, the manager noted that communities are most socially impacted by the virus, as issues of stigma and discrimination, unprofessional TBA practices, indiscriminate drug use, female genital mutilation, and the absence of policies and relevant laws to protect the vulnerable are high in the communities.

“There is therefore need to intensify our ongoing community-based efforts through health awareness and demand creation, and facilitation of differentiated service delivery to improve uptake and retention of preventive services like PrEP, PEP, etc. I wish to very respectfully thank you all once again for honouring this invitation to contribute and take responsibility as stakeholders in the fight against HIV,” he said.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Augustine Umoh, explained that rural areas must adopt proactive measures to facilitate prevention, treatment and stigma reduction.

The traditional rulers, in an interactive session at the workshop, agreed that HIV/AIDS prevention must be given priority attention to effectively address the epidemic in their communities.

Eteidung Robert Benedict Udoh, the village head of Ibesikpo Asutan, who represented the paramount ruler, harped on the need for vigorous sensitization of HIV spread at the grassroots, even as he called on the government to regulate the activities of traditional birth attendants in the state.

The representative of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, commended AKSACA for the initiative and promised that the ministry would collaborate to ensure subsequent workshops in other senatorial districts.

AKSACA tasks community leaders on fight against HIV epidemic

JAMB sanctions officials who forced candidate to remove hijab during UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, disclosed on Sunday that some of its accredited officials have been penalised for preventing a hijab-wearing female UTME candidate from entering the exam hall with her headcover.

In a statement issued by JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr Fabian Benjamin, the exam body disavowed any policy that forbids candidates from wearing religious items related to their faith.

The statement, which was in reaction to publications on some news platforms titled ‘Re: Lagos Centre Stops Hijab-Wearing Candidates as UTME Commences’ said the incident was instantly resolved with the female candidate being allowed to sit for the UTME with her hijab.

JAMB further clarified that the affected officials acted in ignorance, which is unacceptable, as ignorance of the law has no pardon before the law.

It mentioned that about 1.2 million candidates would have taken the 2024 UTME by Monday, April 22.

“It is worthy of note that the board, as a national institution, has no policy barring candidates from sporting the religious paraphernalia peculiar to their religious persuasions, as these are the facts of everyday life in Nigeria, which everyone should have been familiar with by now,” the statement added.

JAMB sanctions officials who forced candidate to remove hijab during UTME

Insecurity: Fear of students’ safety as schools resume in FCT, others

The security situation in the country has instilled fear in some parents and guardians as primary and secondary schools begin their third-term academic section on Monday.

DAILY POST recalls that some schools, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and its neighboring state, Kaduna had, prior to the Easter break, shut down due to security threats.

Many schools also adjusted their calendar to enable them conclude their second-term examinations while terrorists were on rampage, abducting schoolchildren mostly in the northern part of the country.

From March 6 to March 11, about 800 unsuspecting Nigerians, including schoolchildren were kidnapped by the daredevil terrorists causing mayhem across the nation.

Prior to the Easter break, there were reports that kidnappers were planning to launch attacks in some government-owned schools, particularly in Bwari, Bwari Area Council.

But, parents had a sigh of relief when schools concluded their terminal examination and proceeded for holidays from March 27 to March 29.

The holidays have, however, ended and both private and public schools are expected to resume on Monday, April 22.

DAILY POST observed on Saturday that many schools within the territory have beefed up security in and around their facilities in a bid to ensure safety of students.

But parents, who spoke with our correspondent on Saturday, expressed fear of possible attacks on schools and abduction of children.

Pastor Daniel Abimbola told DAILY POST on Saturday that although there are needs for the government to provide adequate security for students, parents should also pray to God to protect their children.

“While we are happy that schools are resuming and children will continue to progress in their learning, the issue of insecurity is one big problem that can give parents high blood pressure.

“If you are someone who listens to news everytime and you are conversant with the activities of these bad boys, you will need to have enough faith before you can send your child to school.

“But I urge all of us to find solace in Jesus Christ. We should put our faith in Him and believe that our children are in his hands. The truth of the matter is that being worried won’t solve any problem.

“If you are talking of security agencies, if God did not secure them and give them power, they would also be vulnerable before these evil people called kidnappers.

“I think it is time for us all to turn to God and seek the face of the Almighty regarding the security situation and other issues troubling us as a country. I believe that if we turn to God, he will also turn to us as he promised in Zechariah 1:3”, he said.

Similarly, Mrs Paulina Odoh, in a chat with DAILY POST on Saturday, appealed to the Federal Government to prioritize the security of schoolchildren.

She said, “Kidnapping has become a business for many people to the extent that people now kidnap themselves and demand for ransom.

“The government should not be relaxed and think that all is well just because we have not heard of abductions in Abuja recently. We all thought it was over before they struck again and kidnapped many innocent children.

“We should not always wait for things to happen before we act. Let’s be proactive. If they want, they can beef up security in all the schools. If they are short of personnel, then let’s recruit more officers. Nigeria has the money and all it takes to be safe”.

DAILY POST gathered on Saturday that some schools in parts of Kaduna, especially the Kuriga community, Chikun Local Government Area are not preparing for resumption due to fear of attacks.

But when contacted by DAILY POST, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan simply said “there is no security threat anywhere”.

On his own part, the spokesman of Nasarawa State Police Command, DSP Ramhan Nansel told DAILY POST that the state is safe for students’ resumption on Monday.

Asked what is the security situation in the state, the PPRO said, “Nasarawa State is peaceful, and there’s no cause for alarm”.

Similarly, the PPRO, FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh said all schools remain fortified, stressing that there would be no intimidation from any quarters.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator, Financing Safe Schools Initiative, Mrs Halima Iliya, last week said plans were underway to actively engage hunters and vigilantes on intelligence gathering to curb attacks on schools across the country.

In an interview with NAN, the Coordinator said that aggressive community engagements and sensitization of students, parents and teachers would kick-off in the second quarter of the year.

“As a component of the plan, for states with local vigilantes, we intend to train their hunters, vigilantes and volunteers while for states without registered vigilantes we intend to advocate using youths.

“Youths will volunteer to protect their communities because we cannot achieve anything within a community without their involvement.

“We will bring them to the security architecture for them to defend and protect their communities in the areas of intelligence gathering, prevention and detection deterrent capabilities,” Iliya said.

Insecurity: Fear of students’ safety as schools resume in FCT, others

Eleven die, 16 sustain injuries in Kano auto crash

The Kano Sector Command of the Federal Roads Safety Corps, FRSC, has confirmed the death of 11 persons in an auto crash in Gaya Local Government Area of the state.

The incident occurred on 19th April, 2024, at approximately 15:45hrs local time, according to CRC AA Labaran, Sector Public Education Officer FRSC RS1.2 Kano Sector Command, in a statement on Saturday.

He said the incident took place at the Gaya Junction along the Kano–Maiduguri road and involved two vehicles: a Toyota hummer bus with registration number KTG 190 XB and a Hijet mini p/up with registration number KTG 501 YG.

Labaran explained that preliminary investigations indicated that the probable cause of the crash was over speeding, resulting in loss of control.

“A total of twenty-eight individuals were involved in the crash, with eleven fatalities and sixteen injuries reported. One person was rescued unhurt from the wreckage,” he added.

Labaran further disclosed that the injured victims were swiftly transported to Gaya General Hospital for urgent medical attention, while the deceased were laid to rest in a mass burial ceremony.

According to him, the Kano Sector Commander CC IS Abdullahi expressed sorrow over the incident and emphasized the importance of compliance with road safety rules and regulations .

Abdullahi warned drivers to refrain from committing traffic offenses such as speed violations and overloading of vehicles with passengers, animals, or goods.

He also advised commercial drivers to ensure installation of speed limit devices on their vehicles to avoid crashes resulting from speed limit violations.

“The FRSC RS1.2 Kano Sector Command CC IS Abdullahi remains committed to ensuring the safety of road users and will continue to intensify efforts in enforcing traffic regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future,” the statement noted.

Eleven die, 16 sustain injuries in Kano auto crash

Ibietan’s book on Cyber Politics gets special reading, further reviews

Top political actors and dons were in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Friday, April 19, 2024 for the special reading and further reviews of the book – Cyber Politics authored by Omoniyi Ibietan of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC.

The special reading and further review which coincided with Ibetan’s birthday had prominent individuals and intellectuals testifying to the facts presented in the book.

According to Aminu Maida, Ph.D, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO Nigerian Communications Commission, “Dr. Ibietan’s book speaks to the reality of how the demographics of voting is now in favour of digital natives, whose engagements are set to upend the traditional media approaches, hence the great value in seeking an understanding of the growing interface across cyber politics, social media networks and social demography. Specifically, the author utilises tested theoretical models and research methods to scrutinise the impact of social media on contemporary politics.”

Hailing further the work, the NCC boss said, “Most significantly, the cutting edge of this vibrant scholarly endeavour is its proposal of a bold new methodology and approach to communications, described as the Channel-Factor Model, which situates the relationship among social media and other variables within a political environment. It is a framework for re-engineering political communication in Africa that is as radical as it is innovative.

“Cyber Politics: Social Media, Social Demography and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria is an absorbing and persuasive book that adds huge insightful value to an understanding of the interactions between politics, social media networks and other variables that influence the behaviour of voters in a democracy. Therefore, we particularly appreciate Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, a staff of the Nigerian Communications Commission, for this contribution to political communication scholarship.”

Similarly, the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria and Deputy VC, Paul University, Akwa, Anambra State, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okuna hailed Ibietan’s work, saying it remains an important book to peruse, analyse and assimilate.

She said: “In my long and eventful career in the field of Communication and Media in general, and Journalism Education in particular, I have seen books and I have seen books; I have also read books and books and books, and I can say categorically that Omoniyi Ibietan’s “Cyber Politics: Social Media, Social Demography and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria” is one book eminently worthy of being seen and being read.”

Hailing the book, Prof. Peter Esuh
Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Uyo said, : The author, Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, is a renowned scholar known for his intellectual prowess and activism. His work has consistently been commendable, and this notable Book of Reading is a testament to his innovative thinking and scholarly contributions. The book is wholeheartedly endorsed for reading.”

Umaru A. Pate, Professor of Media and Society and Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State said, “While welcoming the book as a positive addition to the growing body of literature in the area especially as it gives the Nigerian context, I am strongly recommending it as a worthy book for all students of communication studies, political science and allied fields. Our political tacticians and gladiators and other scholars of the interface between society and information and communication technologies will find the text appropriate and generously useful in helping them to deeply understand the strategies and impact of the social media in Nigerian politics.

“Definitely, the author’s effort is clearly manifested in the quality of the content in the book, its appropriate theoretical grounding, and sound conclusions that are reliably valid in the Nigerian context.”

Ibietan’s book on Cyber Politics gets special reading, further reviews

Tunde Onakoya sets new Guinness World Record with 58-hour chess marathon

Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, on Saturday, set a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game.

Onakoya confirmed this achievement in a post on his official X account, expressing his determination to push the record to 60 hours.

In his post, Onakoya said, “We have done it.

“We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going.

“We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.

“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.”

Onakoya surpassed the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours and 9 minutes in 2018.

The current challenge, taking place at New York City’s iconic Times Square, has already exceeded 56 hours and a few minutes, firmly establishing Onakoya as the new record holder.

The new record holder stated that the chess marathon serves as a platform to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa, a cause championed by Onakoya’s foundation, Chess in Slums Africa.

In a statement issued by the foundation, the event features a team of two players, with Onakoya being joined by his US counterpart, Shawn Martinez, a US National Master and renowned New York City chess legend and coach.

“This record attempt requires a team of two players. Tunde Onakoya (NG) facing off against Shawn Martinez (US) for the challenge. Both players hold the title of National Masters.

“Shawn Martinez, a US National Master, renowned New York City chess legend, and chess coach, poses as a formidable adversary. Both Tunde Onakoya and Shawn Martinez will hold the record title.

“This record is for the longest time to continuously play chess. This record is to be mentioned in hours, minutes, and seconds. This record is to be attempted by a team of two players,” The statement reads in part.

Notable figures such as President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and musicians Davido and Adekunle Gold have shown their support for Onakoya’s record-breaking endeavour.

Tunde Onakoya sets new Guinness World Record with 58-hour chess marathon

2024 UTME kicks off nationwide with minimal glitches

After several months of preparations, the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) kicked off the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) on Friday, in over 700 centres across the country.

While there were some reported instances of internet glitches, the JAMB authorities have assured that no candidate will be marginalised on account of the minor challenges.

However, the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyode, while fielding questions from newsmen after monitoring the examination in Kogo-Bwari, Abuja, criticised some corporate organisations and individuals who hastily award scholarships to supposed best-performing candidates or highest scorers, regretting that such practice was undermining the functions of the examination body.

Recall that controversies arose after the conduct of the 2023 examination, where Mmesoma claimed to be the top scorer which had earned her scholarship worth N3 million from Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing.

But JAMB later came out to deny Mmesoma’s claim of being the highest in the 2023 UTME, saying that the student faked the result she was parading, before she admitted using her phone to manipulate the result.

Speaking on the issue, Oloyede said the exam body is not comfortable with the award of scholarships to UTME best-performing candidates on the basis of the exam alone, as that would not capture other criteria that are factored in for admission.

“Yes, MTN and other people are giving scholarships to the highest (scorers) but we have always discouraged them, because you scored high in UTME doesn’t mean you are the best because some other factors will come in; the quality of your O Level will be added to it, Post-UTME scores will be added to it;

“If you are going to NDA, your physical exercise will be added to it before we can say that you are the best; before we rank you, so why rank people prematurely?

“You will see somebody saying my son scored 330, and in addition to that, he had 7 A1s. Is he not qualified? He might be qualified when you are ranking people in your village; when it comes to Nigeria, he may be 650 despite the so-called brilliance to you,” he said.

Following the commencement of the 2024 UTME on Friday, Oloyede appealed to candidates who experienced glitches in the course of the examination to remain calm as they would be rescheduled to write the exam.

According to him, so far the UTME has been going smoothly as only one centre has been reported to have encountered issues.

“We appeal to the public to understand this, some centres will fail. I have heard of only one centre that has failed today.

“By the end of today, I expect about 10 percent of the centres to have one problem or the other because we know the level of development in different parts of the country.

“We are not encouraging this, but when it happens, please do not disrupt others.

“It is important to note that when a session fails because of a problem, you cannot bring those candidates to do session two, they will have to step aside, and the headquarters will have to be contacted.

“The earliest time they can be scheduled will be after 4:30 p.m. so that those slated for sections two and three can write, and these candidates can now write for session four, and in some cases, they can even be scheduled for the following day,” the JAMB boss stated.

Recall also that JAMB had empowered owners of Computer Based Centres, CBT, to arrest parents seen near the examination halls, alleging that in most cases they aid and abet malpractices.

2024 UTME kicks off nationwide with minimal glitches