Cross River to Host Global Investment Summit in London, Targets Diaspora and Foreign Investors

The Cross River State Government will host an international investment summit in London from Nov. 17 to Nov.19, aimed at attracting global investors and engaging the diaspora in sustainable development.

The summit, themed “Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainable Growth with the People’s First Agenda of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu”, will spotlight strategic sectors and investment-ready projects across the state.

Hon. Ignatius Oli, Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee, Cross River State Diaspora Commission, disclosed this in a statement issued to the Newsmen Saturday.

> “We are positioning Cross River as a competitive investment destination in Nigeria and West Africa,” Oli said.

“This summit is a strategic move to unlock partnerships that will fuel economic growth and align with the state’s People’s First Agenda.”

He said the event would convene investors, policymakers, diaspora professionals, and development partners to explore opportunities in agriculture, tourism, ICT, manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the green economy.

> “We aim to mobilise both domestic and foreign capital into high-growth sectors,” he said.

“It will also promote bankable projects and public-private partnership (PPP) models that can drive long-term development.”

Oli said the summit would serve as a platform for business-to-business and business-to-government networking.

> “Diaspora engagement is central to our strategy. We want to connect with Cross Riverians abroad and create channels for investment, mentorship, and knowledge transfer,” he added.

He noted that the summit’s outcomes would align with the state’s development goals and support Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

The event will be moderated by Mr. Nero Ughwujabo, a public policy expert with a background in stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.

Prince Otu Okor, Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, described the summit as a turning point for the state’s global re-engagement strategy.

> “We are deliberately creating a platform that links our diaspora community to viable investment opportunities back home,” Okor said.

“Cross Riverians abroad are not just spectators—they are vital partners in the state’s transformation agenda.”

He said the Commission is working closely with the summit’s planning committee to ensure effective diaspora participation across all sessions.

> “Our people in the diaspora have the networks, skills, and capital needed to accelerate economic growth in Cross River,” Okor added.

“This summit provides a concrete pathway for them to contribute meaningfully.”

Oli further highlighted opportunities across several strategic sectors:

> “In agriculture, we are focusing on commercial farming, agro-processing, and export value chains,” he said.

“Tourism prospects include hospitality, eco-tourism, and cultural festivals. We are also promoting manufacturing opportunities in agro-allied industries, light production, and export growth.”

He said ICT and renewable energy—particularly solar mini-grids, hydro, and biomass—would also feature prominently, alongside infrastructure such as roads, industrial parks, and urban renewal projects.

> “We’re targeting responsible investments in forestry and mining, including sustainable timber, eco-products, carbon credits, and minerals like barite and limestone,” he added.

“We’re also creating pathways for diaspora-led investments through bonds, joint ventures, and mentoring.”

Oli said Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu would deliver the keynote address and officially open the summit.

> “The programme will feature a policy showcase on investment incentives and ongoing regulatory reforms,” he said.

Panel discussions will focus on tourism, infrastructure, health, agriculture, ICT, and renewable energy, while a special diaspora session will address skills transfer, strategic investments, and long-term partnerships.

The summit is expected to attract investors, business leaders, development agencies, diplomatic missions, and senior government officials.

> “This is not just an event; it is a gateway to partnerships that will define the future of Cross River State,” Oli said.

Oli also expressed appreciation to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, led by Ms. Sharon Dimanche, for their strategic support in mobilizing multilateral partners and fostering collaboration to advance the vision of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

He noted that IOM’s continued engagement underscores the importance of migration and diaspora investment as key drivers of sustainable development in Cross River State.

"Click on the link for registration https://cridcom.crossriverstate.gov.ng/crs-investment-summit

Nigerian Medical Association NMA lines up a week activities, praises Governor Yusuf

Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has applauded Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for taking measures to renovate over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres as well as upgrading some of PHCs and cottage hospital to general hospital across the state.

This commendation was made by Kano state chairman of NMA, Dr. AbdulRahman Ali while addressing newsmen on this year's Physicians Week held in the state capital.

Dr. AbdulRahman Ali said the commendation became necessary in view of it efforts to improve the health system as well as taking proactive measures aimed at improving the welfare f healthcare workers statewide.

The chairman explained that the measures taken by the state government will ginger and motivate the workers to continue to sacrifice and redouble their efforts in this regards. 

While appealing to the state government as a matter of urgency to innovate ways of ensuring a motivated and well compensated health workforce, he urged the state government to consider training and retraining within and outside the state for better service delivery.

He assured that the NMA members are ready to continue to work tirelessly and support the state government policy aimed at promoting and development of the state.

The chairman however, said that this year's Physicians Week theme is "Healthcare as a Value Chain: Building efficient from policy to patient," encapsulates the urgent need for a coordinated, accountable, and effective health system where every component from policy formulation to patient care is optimized to deliver true value to the Nigerian people.

The chairman revealed that in it's simplest form, a value chain refers to a sequence of interdepependent actions that transform inputs into outcomes of value, applied to healthcare, it represents the continuum that begins with sound policies and strategic financing, flows through efficient planning, an empowered workforce and effective service delivery.

He appealing to the federal, state and local governments as well as other private health partner work closely towards achieve the desired objectives.

Dr. AbdulRahman Ali said that the state chapter has lined up activities include lectures, visitation to various hospitals, free medical outreach among others throughout the week.

SWAN honours former north west VP Ado Salisu

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN has conferred the SWAN fellowship award on the former vice president, SWAN north west, Ado Salisu.

The association as part of activities marking its diamond jubilee celebration had decided to confer the award on the Kano born veteran sports broadcaster in recognition of his over three decades of service to the sports media industry.

The award conferment letter signed by the national secretary of the association, Amb Ikenna Okonkwo said the recognition is well deserved, adding that the recipient had played prominent roles in the life span of the association.

He congratulated the recipient for what he described as an honour that is well deserved.

Reacting , an elated Ado Salisu said “ tis gladdens my heart, this is an indication that my service was well recorded and appreciated , I am pleased that, I am been appreciated for my contributions to SWAN and sports in general.

He urged young sports writers to cultivate the spirit of selflessness and doggedness, stressing that the terrain could be rough, but without the vibrancy of sporting press and members of its constituency , the industry cannot thrive.

Ado Salisu reached the pinnacle of his sports journalism career as a reporter with t he renowned Triumph newspaper before been moved to ARTV Kano, from where he took a bow, on completion of his years of merit service.

He rise to the position of the vice president, SWAN north west.

NIPR President Lauds Kano Governor for People-Focused Initiatives

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has commended Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba K Yusuf, for his exceptional commitment to people-oriented projects and inclusive governance.

This commendation came during an inspection visit by the NIPR Governing Council on Tuesday to assess Governor Yusuf’s suitability for investiture as a Patron of the professional body.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mustapha Muhammad, on Wednesday.

The NIPR, a non-profit professional organization established to regulate public relations practice in Nigeria, promotes high standards of professional conduct and ethical engagement across sectors.

During the tour—conducted in collaboration with the Office of the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Sanusi Bature D-Tofa—the NIPR delegation visited several key project sites showcasing the administration’s focus on infrastructure renewal, community development, and economic empowerment.

At the Dan Agundi Flyover, Dr. Neliaku expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, noting that the project, upon completion, would ease traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility. He pledged to return for the inauguration of the completed project.

The NIPR team, accompanied by the Commissioner of Works, Engr. Marwan Ahmad, engaged the project managers on technical and sustainability details, which were satisfactorily explained.

The delegation also visited the multi-billion-naira Bulbula Erosion Control Project in Nassarawa Local Government Area, where significant progress has been made to tackle environmental degradation.

Responding to inquiries, the Governor’s Spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, explained that the project would enhance transportation, improve access to healthcare facilities, and contribute to curbing social vices such as drug abuse among youths.

At Kwankwasiyya City, the Managing Director of the Kano Housing Corporation, Alhaji Abdullahi Rab’u, informed the visitors that the estate comprises over 500 housing units, with the government ensuring the provision of modern infrastructure to guarantee comfort for residents.

He added that occupants are expected to meet their financial commitments or risk revocation of allocation.

The team later stopped at the Gwarzo Garment Centre, where over 100 young men and women were undergoing vocational training in tailoring and garment production—a testament to the administration’s investment in human capital development.

At Challawa/Goje Dama, Karaye Local Government Area, the delegation was received by the Commissioner of Power, Dr. Gaddafi Sani Shehu, who briefed them on the near-completion of a 6-megawatt power plant that is expected to significantly boost electricity supply across the state.

Speaking to journalists after the inspection, Dr. Neliaku remarked that Governor Yusuf’s initiatives transcend physical infrastructure, emphasizing social inclusion and community ownership.

“We are immensely impressed by the governor’s dedication to projects that directly impact citizens and make them active participants in the state’s progress,” he stated.

“This aligns perfectly with the core principles of public relations, which is about building and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships between an organization and its publics.”

Dr. Neliaku added that the NIPR Council would consider the findings of the inspection in determining the governor’s formal investiture as a Patron of the Institute. He emphasized that the visit underscores NIPR’s commitment to recognizing leaders who uphold transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.

Kano, Guinea Bissau Strengthen Bilateral Relations

...To Partner on Agriculture, Education, Culture and Tourism

The Kano State Government and the Republic of Guinea Bissau have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations with a focus on agriculture, education, culture, tourism, and human capital development.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Thursday.

The development followed a high-level meeting held in Bissau, where the Kano State delegation led by the National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, paid a courtesy visit to the President of Guinea Bissau, His Excellency Umaro Sissoco Embaló.

The delegation represented the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in areas that promote job creation, youth empowerment, and skill acquisition.

 The collaboration will include initiatives in GSM repairs, fish farming, and the cashew and mango value chains, which are key to boosting economic productivity and employment opportunities.

As part of the agreement, the Kano State Government has offered 50 scholarship slots for citizens of Guinea Bissau to study English and Hausa languages in one of the state-owned tertiary institutions.

 

The initiative aims to foster cultural and linguistic exchange between the two governments and strengthen the historical ties between West African nations.

In his remarks, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló commended the visionary leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and expressed his readiness to pay a return visit to Kano. 

He disclosed that he had already directed his Minister of Defence to lead a government delegation to Kano State to explore further areas of partnership.

The Kano State delegation included Hajiya Amina Abdullahi, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Disabilities; Hajiya Sadiya Abdu Bichi, Special Adviser on Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities; Arc. Danjuma Zarewa, former Director-General of Urban Beautification; and Hon. Muhammad Sani Gumel.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building international partnerships that create opportunities for the people of Kano, particularly in human capital development, trade, and cultural exchange.

VP Shettima To Journalists: President Tinubu Will Remain Your Ally, Will Preserve Your Rights

Pledges to table NUJ’s demands of protection, review of libel laws, others before the president 

 

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has assured the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains an ally of the media, and is committed to protecting and advancing the journalism profession in the country.

 

In a statement signed by Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President) Stanley Nkwocha, said the Vice President recalled that President Tinubu has long been supportive of the media and would not deviate from his consistent track record of upholding the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.

 

Senator Shettima gave the assurance on Wednesday when he hosted a delegation of the NUJ leadership at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

 

The Vice President however noted that the government and citizens alike expect a lot from the media, emphasizing that the journalism profession stands almost at par with the judiciary.

According to him, journalists are expected to hold public officials accountable and adjudicate on issues of governance.

 “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have a friend, an ally, and a proprietor who has been kind to the Nigerian media over the years.

"I want to assure you that this administration will do its best to promote, project, and preserve the interests of the journalism profession. You are the life wire of the nation — we can’t afford to muzzle you,” the Vice President said.

Describing the media as the conscience of the nation, Senator Shettima stressed that authorities cannot afford to intimidate journalists, as they are indispensable to the survival of democracy in the country.

“Past generations of Nigerian leaders — from Herbert Macaulay to Nnamdi Azikiwe and even Obafemi Awolowo — were first journalists before they became political leaders,” the Vice President recalled.

VP Shettima acknowledged the challenges facing the media industry, noting that several media organizations in Nigeria struggle to pay staff salaries and emoluments.

He appealed to the NUJ to remain hopeful, promising that President Tinubu would continue to support the Union.

“Be rest assured that the President will render his support to your organization. We cannot afford to allow the journalism profession to die,” he added.

Shettima further noted that President Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies was made in the national interest, just as he reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to repositioning the Nigerian economy for the benefit of all citizens.

Earlier, the National President NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, drew the Vice President’s attention to some critical issues confronting journalists in the course of doing their job, urging him to use his office “to take a firm stance in defending press freedom, and ensuring that journalists are not punished for doing their constitutional duty.”

He also urged the government “to initiate a comprehensive review of colonial-era laws such as sections of the Criminal and Penal Codes that continue to criminalize journalism,” maintaining that “libel should be decriminalized.”

 

Other demands made by the NUJ President include facilitation of a national safety protocol for journalists, in collaboration with security agencies, to ensure that no reporter is harmed for simply reporting the news.

 

He also called for government’s partnership with the media to initiate a media support framework, including training grants, soft loans, tax relief, and a targeted bailout for critical media institutions.

 

The NUJ also sought partnerships with TETFUND, universities, and international media institutes to uplift training standards across the profession, as well as the creation of a Permanent Government- Media Liaison Platform under the office of the Vice President to foster regular engagement, clarify national policies, and prevent the vacuum breeding misinformation.

 

Abdullahi pledged the support of the Nigerian press for the President Tinubu's development agenda, noting however that the press will always maintain the right to speak truth to power for the survival of democracy.

 

“We are institutional partners and would not be drowned in the false narratives that the media must be antagonistic to government. Same way we call out government when we feel that certain issues are not clearly given the needed consideration, we also would be ready to applaud government when things have been done right,” he added.

 

He commended the administration of President Tinubu over what he described as tangible efforts and firm support in key areas of national development, despite the economic headwinds facing Nigeria, just like many other nations.

 

Abdullahi acknowledged that in less than three years, the administration has undertaken bold reforms targeted at stabilizing the nation’s economy.

ICPC Records Landmark ₦1.86 Billion from 2024 Asset Disposal — Highest Since Inception

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has achieved a major milestone in its asset disposal operations, realizing a total of ₦1,868,969,400.00 from the auction of 23 forfeited assets in 2024  the highest amount recorded since the Commission’s establishment.

In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment of the Commission, Demola Bakare, said this achievement was announced during the 2025 meeting of the Asset Disposal Committee, following a report presented by the Proceeds of Crime Department (POCD). 

The exercise was carried out in line with the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act (POCA) 2022, which empowers the Commission to recover, manage, and dispose of assets derived from illicit activities.

According to the report, out of the 23 assets disposed of in 2024, 10 were successfully auctioned in December 2024, while seven could not be sold due to low bids that fell below the approved threshold or forced-sale value. The remaining six assets were affected by legal, security, or encroachment challenges. Four (4) unsold assets have been rolled over into the 2025 disposal programme.

For the 2025 exercise, the Committee has presented 30 movable and immovable assets for disposal. These include four (4) rolled-over assets from 2024, twelve (12) immovable assets, three (3) movable assets, and eleven (11) batches of perishable assets newly enrolled for auction.

A breakdown of the amount of money realized from the disposal revealed that perishable/ scrapped assets stood at N3,969,400.00, Off-cycle disposal sales (3 No. assets) valued at N975,000,000.00, while On-Cycle Disposal Sales (20 No. Assets) is valued at N890,000,000.00.

Presiding over the meeting, the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, commended the Proceeds of Crime Department for its effective implementation of the Commission’s mandate and emphasized that depriving the corrupt of their illicit gains remains one of the most potent strategies in combating corruption.

“The significance of asset recovery in the fight against corruption cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital mechanism for restoring public resources to their rightful use.” Dr. Aliyu noted.

Dr. Aliyu further explained that civil forfeiture provides a faster, cheaper, and more transparent means of recovering stolen assets, while the conversion of confiscated assets into public value enhances national economic growth and rebuilds public confidence in the anti-corruption process.

He reiterated that asset disposal is a critical aspect of ICPC’s responsibilities under POCA 2022 and other enabling laws, aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and value optimization in the conversion of forfeited assets into proceeds that benefit both victims of corruption and the Nigerian public.

In line with ICPC’s commitment to transparency and due process, the 2025 Asset Disposal Committee meeting was observed by independent representatives from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Accountability Lab, and the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI).

Dr. Aliyu commended the presence of these observers, noting that their participation reinforces public trust and ensures that the asset disposal process is conducted with fairness, integrity, and full transparency.

AWDF, NBRRI Train Women, Youth in Construction Skills, Push Gender Inclusion

The Alice Wanny Development Foundation (AWDF), in collaboration with the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), has trained women and youths in construction-related skills.

The two-day programme focused on tiling, flooring techniques, safety in construction, and entrepreneurship.

Founder of AWDF, Alice Adamuje Owan, said the initiative seeks to break gender stereotypes and empower women beyond traditional trades.

"Most women are trained in tailoring or catering. But the construction industry is growing, and we want women to benefit from it,” she said.

She called for more opportunities for women in the sector through internships, placements, and gender-inclusive policies.

“A woman with skills is not just an asset to her family but to the nation,” Owan said.

The event also marked the International Day of the Girl Child and the launch of Owan’s book, From Gloominess to Strength.

The book highlights the struggles and resilience of girls facing educational and gender-based challenges.

“This book is not just a memoir. It is a call to action,” she said, urging communities to invest in girls’ education.“When a girl rises, a nation rises,” she added.

Director of Consultancy and Extension Services at NBRRI, Mr Daniel Makava, said the training was part of a broader national effort to reduce unemployment and boost gender equity in construction.

“We are equipping women and young people with practical skills to access jobs and start businesses,” Makava said.

“Empowering women in construction is no longer an option—it is a necessity for inclusive growth.”

He said NBRRI would continue to partner with stakeholders to promote technical competence and safety in the sector.

The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) also lent its voice to the call for gender inclusion, professionalism, and safety in real estate development.

Speaking at the event, Hajiya Binta Ibrahim, Chairperson, REDAN National Women’s Committee, stressed the importance of ethics and competence in the housing sector.

“Professionalism must be the foundation of every real estate activity. It builds trust and attracts partnerships,” she said.

She said safety must go beyond policy to become an everyday practice.“A safe site is a productive site. Safety protects lives, ensures quality, and reduces losses,” she added.

Ibrahim urged more women to explore roles in construction and property development.

“Inclusion brings creativity, diligence, and accountability, all of which drive better outcomes,” she said.

She noted that women still face limited access to land, finance, and leadership roles.“REDAN is pushing for inclusive financing and mortgage models tailored for women,” Ibrahim said.

She pledged REDAN’s continued support for mentoring and partnerships that promote women’s participation.

She pledged REDAN’s continued support for mentoring and partnerships that promote women’s participation.

Also speaking, Safety Expert Labaran Ahman led a session on “Workplace Safety for Women in Construction.”

Ahman, a member of multiple global safety associations, emphasised the need for gender-sensitive safety policies.

“Women face unique risks on construction sites. We need inclusive training and protective measures that reflect this,” he said.

He stressed that safety must evolve to reflect the diversity of today’s workforce.

Another session, titled “Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities in Craftsmanship,” was led by Ms Asange Ann.

Ann encouraged participants to shift from survival work to building structured businesses.

"Your hands hold value—but your mind builds the future. It’s time to turn skills into success,” she said.

She discussed how skills like carpentry, tailoring, metalwork, and bead-making can become viable enterprises.

Ann urged participants to apply branding, digital marketing, and niche identification to grow their businesses.

Participants left the event with hands-on knowledge and a renewed focus on building sustainable livelihoods.

NSC Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Sports Federation Elections

As anticipation builds ahead of the forthcoming National Sports Federations elections, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has restated its unwavering commitment to ensuring a transparent, credible, and fair process across all federations in the country.

Speaking exclusively, a senior NSC official emphasized that the Commission remains resolute in upholding integrity and due process — despite what was described as “desperate attempts by certain individuals to manipulate outcomes.”

“No amount of intimidation or blackmail will deter us from doing what is right — not just for a few individuals but for all federations,” the official said with conviction.

He further reaffirmed that the rules and regulations guiding each association, in line with the NSC’s election guidelines and national laws, would be strictly enforced to preserve credibility and restore trust in sports administration.

RESTORING FAITH IN NIGERIAN SPORTS

For the NSC, the upcoming elections represent more than a bureaucratic exercise — they are an opportunity to give Nigerian sports a new lease of life.

Transparency, accountability, and institutional reform are the Commission’s guiding principles as it seeks to strengthen governance within the various federations.

According to the official, past elections conducted under NSC supervision “stood the test of fairness and credibility.” Any attempt to subvert due process this time, he warned, would meet with firm resistance.

“We are determined to meet international standards in this process,” the source stressed. “No individual or group will be considered too powerful to operate outside the established rules.”

The NSC also made clear that, after the elections, all federations are expected to run their affairs independently and professionally, free from external influence — a core pillar of the Commission’s broader reform agenda.

JUDOKA GBAYI COMMENDS NSC’s INTERVENTION IN FEDERATION CRISIS

“If not for their timely action, Judo would have fallen into chaos,” he says.

In another development, the Ogun State Judo Association Chairman, Honourable Omoba Segun Gbayi, has thrown his weight behind the NSC’s intervention in the lingering Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF) leadership crisis, calling it “timely, lawful, and necessary.”

Reacting to recent accusations by the ousted NJF President, Dr. Musa Oshodi, Gbayi dismissed the claims as “mischief and blackmail” intended to mislead both the public and the international judo community.

“Dr. Oshodi is only trying to remain relevant after losing influence,” Gbayi told First Zealmediacast. “His claims against the NSC and its Director General, Honourable Bukola Olopade, are baseless and dead on arrival.”

A DISPUTED ELECTION AND A BREACH OF TRUST

According to Gbayi, Dr. Oshodi had unilaterally organized an election and sworn in new board members before the expiration of the existing board’s tenure — a clear violation of NJF statutes and democratic norms.

He explained that the NSC had earlier invited Oshodi to resolve issues arising from a self-authored and unapproved constitution, but the former president ignored reconciliation efforts and went ahead with a controversial election held on September 11, 2025.

“That election excluded key stakeholders — from NAWIS and NAPHER-SD to AFFAN, military and paramilitary representatives, sponsors, and even the international delegate,” Gbayi noted. “It was a deliberate move to entrench himself in power and violated every principle of fair play.”

REPUTATION AT STAKE

Gbayi went further to accuse Dr. Oshodi of acts that allegedly tarnished the federation’s image, including visa racketeering and administrative irregularities that, he said, had damaged Nigeria’s standing within the global judo community.

He condemned Oshodi’s calls for presidential intervention and attempts to undermine the NSC’s authority, describing them as “acts of desperation.”

“The leadership of the NSC should be praised, not vilified,” Gbayi concluded. “If not for their timely intervention, the Nigeria Judo Federation would have descended into chaos and anarchy.”

A DEFINING MOMENT FOR NIGERIAN SPORTS

As the countdown to the elections continues, the NSC’s resolve to enforce discipline, transparency, and fairness will be tested. For many observers, these elections represent a defining moment — one that could reshape the governance and credibility of Nigeria’s sports federations for years to come.

GEEP Seeks Partnership with NIMC, SMEDAN to Strengthen Support for SMEs and Farmers

The National Programme Manager of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Mr. Hamza Baba, paid a courtesy visit to the Director‑General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engineer Abisoye Coker, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. Mr. Baba also met with the Director‑General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Dr. Charles ODII, to explore areas of collaboration and formal partnership.

In a statement signed by the Director Public Relations of the Program, Attari Hope, said the meeting with NIMC focused on strengthening beneficiary identification, registration and verification for GEEP target groups — market women, traders, artisans and smallholder farmers across the country. Mr. Baba confirmed GEEP’s intention to register beneficiaries by occupation (e.g., traders, market operators, smallholder farmers) and to build a reliable data‑sharing and verification mechanism between the two agencies.

Engineer Abisoye Coker reaffirmed NIMC’s commitment to a structured partnership that leverages the Commission’s nationwide platform and field operatives to support GEEP enumerators and desk officers (GEEPDECO). Both parties stressed the importance of ensuring that all GEEP beneficiaries possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to eliminate duplication, improve transparency, and ensure that only verified individuals benefit from the programme.

During the courtesy call with SMEDAN, Mr. Baba and Dr. ODII identified complementary areas for collaboration, including:

 • Capacity building and financial literacy training for micro and small businesses to support the objectives of GEEP 3.0.

 • Digital transformation support, including extending SMEDAN’s partnerships with digital platforms to GEEP beneficiaries to improve record‑keeping, expense tracking and payroll management.

 • Joint programme development targeting underserved groups — women, youth and artisans — and co‑hosting stakeholder engagements to promote investment opportunities and refine SME financing policies.

 • Strengthening linkages between SMEDAN’s Agric Business Development and Empowerment Programme and GEEP’s FarmerMoni initiative to combine technical support, market access and financial empowerment for smallholder farmers.

Both agencies agreed that combining SMEDAN’s technical expertise and market networks with GEEP’s financial empowerment instruments would amplify impact, support rural economic development and contribute to the Federal Government’s broader economic objectives.

Representatives from the three agencies will develop a framework for collaboration and a roadmap for implementation, beginning with beneficiary registration and verification processes and rolling out coordinated training and digital support initiatives for GEEP 3.0 beneficiaries.