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NELFUND Issues New Guidelines on Upkeep Loan Disbursement

NELFUND Issues New Guidelines on Upkeep Loan Disbursement

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has said that upkeep loan disbursement is now strictly tied to the academic session of each institution.

NELFUND disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Thursday by its Director of Strategic Communications, Mrs Oseyemi Oluwatuyi.

“In line with this directive, students shall only be entitled to upkeep loans for their current academic session.

“Upon the conclusion of an institution’s academic year, upkeep payments for that session shall automatically cease,” she said.

According to Oluwatuyi, students who transition into a new academic year would no longer receive upkeep disbursements for the preceding session.

She further said interested loan applicants were required to apply for the loan at the beginning of every academic session to be eligible for both institutional charges and upkeep for that particular session.

“To ensure accuracy and transparency, the NELFUND loan portal is being automated to reflect this adjustment.

“The portal will henceforth display only the upkeep loans that have been collected by each student within the relevant session,” she added.

Oluwatuyi advised institutions to upload their academic calendars and session information in a timely manner to guarantee that their students received the full upkeep benefits due to them for an entire academic year.

“NELFUND remains committed to its mandate of providing accessible, transparent and efficient loan support to Nigerian students, and counts on the cooperation of all stakeholders in the smooth implementation of this directive.

“For further inquiries or assistance, please contact us via email at info@nelf.gov.ng or reach out through our official social media platforms, and X (formerly Twitter),” she said.

“Other contacts include @nelfund, Instagram: @nelfund and Facebook & LinkedIn: Nigerian Education Loan Fund.” (NAN)

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The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has said that upkeep loan disbursement is now strictly tied to the academic session of each institution. NELFUND disclosed this in a statement in
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Gateway Airport: A Legacy Project To Unlock Ogun Economic Potentials

Gateway Airport: A Legacy Project To Unlock Ogun Economic Potentials

Femi Ogbonnikan

All is now set for the commencement of commercial operations at the Gateway International Cargo Airport, Illisan-Remo, Ogun State, following the Interim Aerodrome Operational Permit granted it by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Friday, August 15, 2025. The approval allows the airport to operate scheduled commercial air transport flights. With the nod, a major international aviation company is expected to operate two weekly cargo flights from London to the airport, while passenger flights will be launched with direct routes to Abuja (Federal Capital Territory) and Port Harcourt, Rivers state capital.
This is not just another airport. It’s a benchmark Airport. A game changer. The NCAA’s certification represents a major milestone, as the agency described the airport as a model for future aviation infrastructure in Nigeria. The airport’s state-of-the-art facilities were judged to be world-class and a source of pride for Ogun State. While construction was ongoing, a combined team of regulatory authorities, including the NCAA, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had, in December last year, visited the airport, hailing the quality of facilities put in place as one of the best in West Africa. They unanimously concluded that the infrastructure at the airport, including the Control Tower, Weather Monitoring Areas, Runway, Fire Service Stations, and the Apron, could rival any of their type around the world.
A quick run of the features of the facilities at the airport shows a 4-kilometre (4,000-metre) long and 60-metre-wide runway, which is one of the longest and widest in West Africa sub-region. This design allows it to accommodate wide-body and ultra-long-haul aircraft, including a Boeing 777 and even an Airbus A380. The runway is equipped with a sophisticated and solar-powered lighting system, including Category 1 approach lighting, elevated runway end lights, and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI). It also has a Doppler VOR/DME navigation system, which is considered more precise than those at many other airports in Nigeria.
The airport equally features a five-story, 36-metre-tall air traffic control tower equipped with the state-of-the-art aviation control systems, including ADS-B transponders and fully calibrated ground-to-air communication systems. The building itself has a dedicated, uninterruptable power supply, with backup inverters to ensure continuous operations.
Apart from its terminal building designed for both domestic and international processing, the apron, which is built on 82,000 square metres, has the capacity to park up to 20 aircraft at once. The lighting system on the apron is noted for being advanced, with a winch-based system that allows for easy maintenance.
The entire airport is surrounded by a 12-kilometre perimeter fence, which is a key security feature. Above all, its communication system is built on a high-speed fibre-optic network, with a satellite-based backup (Starlink) to ensure seamless internet connectivity.
Strategically located near the nation’s commercial nerve centre, the airport will serve as a designated alternate airport to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, helping to ease congestion and provide a diversion point for Lagos-bound flights.
The commencement of operations is expected to significantly boost trade, investment, and tourism in Ogun State and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification by facilitating the export of agricultural produce.
The airport’s location is its most significant asset. It is strategically positioned to serve as a logistics hub for the entire Southwestern region and is a designated alternative to the congested Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. This ensures a steady flow of both cargo and passenger traffic. The long runway, capable of accommodating large ultra-long-haul aircraft, gives it a unique competitive advantage for international freight.
Its economic multiplier effect is immeasurable. Beyond direct financial returns, the project is expected to generate a massive economic multiplier effect. The creation of over 25,000 jobs, the attraction of new industries, and the boosting of agricultural exports will lead to increased tax receipts and a more robust state economy. This indirect but substantial return on investment is a key part of the government’s long-term vision.
While the project’s initial cost has been reportedly put at $800 million, the prospects for a positive Return of Investment (ROI) are strong. The government’s strategic approach of leveraging a public-private partnership (PPP), combined with the airport’s diverse revenue streams and strategic location, positions the project for long-term financial viability and economic success.
The Gateway International Airport holds immense significance for the Ogun State economy, going far beyond just facilitating air travel. Its development is a central part of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s strategy to transform the state into a major industrial and economic hub.
Conceived as a catalyst for the Agro-Allied Sector, the airport is primarily designed as an Agro-Cargo hub. This will have a transformative effect on Ogun State’s agricultural sector. By providing a dedicated facility for the swift export of perishable goods, it will reduce post-harvest losses. Farmers can now get their produce (e.g., fruits, vegetables, flowers) to international markets quickly, reducing waste and increasing profitability.
Its potential as foreign exchange earnings gives a brighter future of the state’s economy, as the airport will serve as a gateway for exporting goods, generating foreign currency for the state and local businesses.
Due to deliberate policy of the government focusing on developing a Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) around the airport, the airport will attract companies to process and package agricultural products for export, adding value and creating jobs. As already projected, as estimated 25,000 jobs are expected to be created by this project either directly or indirectly. These jobs span various sectors, including aviation, logistics, ground-handling, customs, and security services.
The development of an aerotropolis (an airport city) around the facility will also attract investment in real estate, hospitality, retail, and commercial services, creating a wide range of opportunities.
The airport’s location is a key part of its economic value proposition. Situated near the Sagamu Interchange on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, it is strategically positioned to serve as a logistics hub for the entire Southwestern region. By so doing, it will serve as a viable alternative to the often-congested Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, easing traffic and improving the efficiency of cargo and passenger movement.
Additionally, the airport has potential advantage of enhancing supply chains whereby manufacturers and businesses in Ogun State and the surrounding areas will have a direct channel for receiving raw materials and exporting finished goods, improving the overall efficiency of their supply chains.
Also, by improving connectivity and creating a business-friendly environment, the airport is a magnet for investment. The state’s government is leveraging the airport to attract both local and foreign investors in various sectors, including manufacturing, real estate, and aviation-related services, thereby solidifying Ogun State’s reputation as a top investment destination in Nigeria.
One big question industry experts have always raised is the issue of sustainability and profitability, considering Nigeria’s constantly changing political and business environment. While sustainability is a complex issue, the project is strategically positioned for success. The major strength that supports its sustainability is the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model. The government has made it clear that the airport will be run on a concession basis. This model is a major strength. It shifts the operational and financial risks to a private entity that has the expertise to manage a commercial enterprise. The state government’s role in de-risking the project by building the initial infrastructure makes it a more attractive proposition for private investors, ensuring that a professional operator will take over and manage it for the long term.
The airport’s designation as an alternative to the congested Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) further guarantees a steady stream of business, regardless of changes in the broader economy. Its long runway, capable of handling large cargo planes, also gives it a significant advantage over other regional airports.
All these are in addition to its diversified revenue streams. As designed from conception, the airport’s business model is not solely dependent on passenger traffic, a major risk for many state-owned airports in Nigeria. The primary focus on agro-cargo, coupled with the development of an “aerotropolis” (an airport city) and a Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ), creates multiple, stable revenue streams from cargo handling, commercial leases, and related services. This diversification makes it more resilient to economic shocks.
Unless a future state government comes into power with a different political agenda, the project already has an in-built sustainability plan. The airport’s strong foundation for sustainability is tied to its well-thought-out PPP model, strategic location, and diversified revenue streams. However, its long-term viability will depend heavily on the ability of its private operators to navigate Nigeria’s complex business environment, and a consistent commitment from future state administrations to uphold the project’s original vision. Over all, the prospects for a return on investment (ROI) for the Gateway International Cargo Airport in Ogun State are considered strong, primarily due to its strategic business model and location. While the initial capital expenditure is substantial, the long-term vision and projected revenue streams suggest a positive financial outlook.
Governor Dapo Abiodun has been explicit that the state government’s investment was to de-risk the project and attract private capital. The government has received numerous offers for a concession agreement, which would allow a private company to manage the airport in exchange for paying back the state’s initial investment and sharing in the revenue. This model is designed to ensure a return for the government while leveraging private sector efficiency and expertise.
In other words, the airport’s business model is designed to generate income from multiple sources, minimizing reliance on a single revenue stream. As an agro-cargo hub, the airport will generate significant revenue from handling, storage, and processing fees for both agricultural and other goods.
While primarily a cargo airport, the inclusion of passenger flights to destinations like Abuja and Port Harcourt will generate income from passenger service charges, airline landing fees, and other aeronautical services. The airport is part of a larger aerotropolis project, a self-contained airport city. This includes developing a Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ), which will attract businesses that will pay for land leases, provide taxes, and contribute to the economic ecosystem, providing long-term, stable revenue.
To sum it up, the Gateway International Airport is Governor Abiodun’s enduring legacy project conceived to unlock Ogun State economic potential for the benefit of the present and future generations. The good news is the availability of wide range of opportunities that are ready for grabs, following the approval of regulatory authorities for the commencement of commercial operations. These include agro-processing and packaging, Cold-Chain Logistics, warehousing and storage, real estate and infrastructure, residential development, hospitality and retail businesses, among others.

*Ogbonnikan writes from Abeokuta, Ogun State capital

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Femi Ogbonnikan All is now set for the commencement of commercial operations at the Gateway International Cargo Airport, Illisan-Remo, Ogun State, following the Interim Aerodrome Operational Permit granted it by
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Katsina Revokes Operational Licences of Private, Community Schools

Katsina Revokes Operational Licences of Private, Community Schools

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has revoked the operational licences of both private and community schools across the 34 local government areas of the state. 

In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the state Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Sani Danjuma Suleiman, the government ordered fresh applications for all the affected schools.

The government also reviewed the licence application, registration, annual renewal and school upgrade fees, but warned that the revised fees should not lead to increment in school fees of the affected schools without the ministry’s approval.

It, however, noted that the affected schools are expected to resume normal operations while the process of registration and renewal of the school licences is ongoing.

The statement read: “In light of these changes, all Private and Community Schools in Katsina State are directed to note the following:

“All existing licences for Private and Community Schools were terminated effective from 13th August 2025 approved by the State Executive Council.

“All Private and Community Schools should submit payment receipts for application and registration fees for new licences to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education via the Department of Private and Community Schools, based on school categorization.

“All payments must be made exclusively to the Katsina State Single Treasury Account: 0008978642 – KSBIR IGR COLLECTION, JAIZ BANK PLC.

“Schools are required to comply with these directives by making the necessary licensing fee payments to the designated account on or before 30th September 2025.”

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Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Katsina State Government has revoked the operational licences of both private and community schools across the 34 local government areas of the state.  In a statement
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2027: Obidient Movement Unveils New Nigeria is Possible Campaign in Enugu

2027: Obidient Movement Unveils New Nigeria is Possible Campaign in Enugu

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

Ahead of the 2027 general election, the Enugu State chapter of the Obidient Movement has launched a new campaign, ‘New Nigeria is Possible–Get Your PVC & GO MERD” in Enugu State.

Addressing a press conference during the launch yesterday, Enugu State Coordinator of the Movement, Chukwude Ikenna said that the launch was in response to the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from the hands of bad leaders.

He explained that the GO MERD acronym, which stands for Get Organised–Make Election Rigging Difficult, underscores the need to focus on addressing the decades long challenge of election rigging which has impacted the legitimacy of elections in the country.

“Ahead into the 2027 election season, we plan to mobilise millions of Nigerians into organised voting blocs, ensure that every eligible citizen has a Permanent Voter’s Card, and protect the integrity of the 2027 elections,” he said.

He explained that in line with the GO MERD campaign, members of the Obidient movement will either lead or join a voting bloc of at least 100 Nigerians across different polling unit in the country.

“We will work to achieve 100% PVC ownership in each bloc. We will go door-to-door, help people get to registration points, and recruit 1,500 values-based leaders to run for office under the Obidient platform,”.

Speaking further, he said that the goal is to achievement a new Nigeria where food is affordable, communities are secure, healthcare works and where education equips the young people for a better future.

“For our children, it is about building a country where patriotism is not a burden, but a thing of joy,” he said.

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Gideon Arinze in Enugu Ahead of the 2027 general election, the Enugu State chapter of the Obidient Movement has launched a new campaign, ‘New Nigeria is Possible–Get Your PVC &
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Education Key to Empowering Society, Says PENGASAN

Education Key to Empowering Society, Says PENGASAN

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has said that one of the best ways to promote national growth and development is through provision of quality education for children and youths.

It said that giving our children opportunity to learn in a conducive environment with good facilities will go a long way to help them realize their aspiration of becoming future leaders in the country.

Speaking during the commissioning of the LEA Primary School, Tukuruwa in Kwali Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Abuja on Tuesday,
PENGASAN president, Comrade Festus Osifo said that the gesture will inspire the children to achieve greater heights in life.

For over two years, the two buildings housing the LEA Primary School, Tukuruwa in Kwali Area Council was in dilapidated state with it’s roof completely blown off by rain, forcing the School children to sit on bare floor to carry on learning activities.

However, PENGASAN Foundation, the charity arm.of the oil workers union floated about a year ago intervened and rehabilitated the entire structures at the school including the toilet facilities.

The project, which includes two blocks of six classrooms, staff rooms, toilets, borehole, 200 desks, and 800 notebooks and school bags for pupils, was executed in less than a month.

Addressing parents, children and community leaders who gathered at the school to witness the ceremony, Osifo said that the PENGASSAN desirous of helping Indegent citizens in anyway possible.

Osifo said: “We felt that as a body PENGASAN, this was one of the projects that we think was quite auspicious, one of the projects that would go straight to the heart of this community and also better the lives of these children, because these are future senators, these are future presidents, these are future governors, and these are future local government chairmen and chair ladies.

“So for us, we are extremely excited to have undertook this project. There is nothing more exciting than this, because if these children go into the classroom, they see a befitting chair to sit on. Almost about 200 of them were supplied and about 800 exercise books that we have also supplied, as well as school bags, just our little way of saying, thank you to a country that has given us, support to be whom we are today.

Osifo spoke of other interventions made by the Foundation, Osifo said: “We’ve done a lot of intervention across the nook and cranny of the country, where in different general hospitals to look out for the poorest of the poor in our society, people who could not afford a simple medical bills to offset their bills, millions of Naira was expanded and expanded on that.

“You could see the joy that came out from these people, because a lot of them the hospital could not release them to go home, even when they were not well.

While haring his experiences in the execution of various humanitarian interventions, the Chairman of PENGASAN Foundation, David Owan said that he was deeply touched by the circumstances that some people found themselves in.

In the case of the LEA Primary School, Tukuruwa he said that the Foundation was enthused by the excitement and level of cooperation by the community during the rehabilitation..

His Royal Highness, Etsu Kwali, Luka Ayedoo Nizassan III, expressed deep appreciation on behalf of the community, describing the project as a symbol of hope and inclusion.

“We feel hopeful, because this project will provide conveniences or has provided conveniences for the pupils of this school to learn. Our hearts are so filled with joy,” he said.

The traditional ruler praised the swift response of PENGASSAN to the community’s request for help.

Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Hon. Danladi Chiya, who received the symbolic handover of the renovated school, acknowledged PENGASSAN’s critical role in reviving a long-neglected facility.

“Today, I’m overwhelmed standing before you. I’m so glad that the PENGASSAN Foundation have deemed it necessary to touch the life of Kwali people.

“Indeed, the entire community of Kwali Area Council were honoured and were happy for your intervention.” Chiya said.

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Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has said that one of the best ways to promote national growth and development is
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WelcomeToNigeria Expo ‘2025: Tourism Industry Stakeholders Demand Infrastructure Devt

WelcomeToNigeria Expo ‘2025: Tourism Industry Stakeholders Demand Infrastructure Devt

By Justina Uzo

Stakeholders in the tourism sub-sector came together to call for deliberate and strategic investment in infrastructure development.
They said tourist infrastructure will help to revitalize the nation’s tourism industry.

While sharing experiences, some gave direction pointing out that an access road leading to any tourism site is key.
Coordinator, WelcomeToNigeria Expo, Isa Yusuf Sago in a compelling address said the Expo calls for more strategic repositioning.

“We recognise that infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving economy. But infrastructure alone is not enough. We must build strong institutional linkages, nurture inclusive growth, and drive a bold agenda for sustainable development that touches every sector and every citizen,” he said.

First-of-its-kind, WelcomeToNigeria Expo was held in Abuja recently, in a move to ensure that tourism not only thrives but also able to contribute to the nation’s economy.

The Expo brought together state and non-state actors, public and private development experts, investors, civil society organisations, academia, and international stakeholders to discuss, strategise, and forge sustainable partnerships that will unlock Nigeria’s vast developmental potential.

It also attracted top stakeholders across government and regulatory agencies.

The 2-day Expo offered a unique opportunity to align tourism development with national planning priorities by forging sustainable partnerships for infrastructure development, enhancing institutional linkages, and promoting coherent strategies for growth and sustainable development.

Minister of Art Culture Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hanatu Musa Musawa restated government’s commitment to tourism, urging tourism industry operators to reposition tourism as a viable and competitive contributor to national development.

In her keynote address, she said the chosen theme “National Agenda for Tourism Partnership on Infrastructure Development, Institutional Linkages, Growth and Sustainable Development” is not only timely but also central to the Federal Government’s broader objectives of economic diversification, inclusive growth, and sustainable national development. She said “
Nigeria is not just a destination but an experience rich in culture, vibrant in creativity, welcoming in spirit, and limitless in potential.
“Today, tourism is no longer a peripheral sector it is an engine of economic vitality. It generates jobs, fosters cultural exchange, supports environmental stewardship, and strengthens national identity.”

In the same vein, the tourism stakeholders celebrated domestic tourism. They said that segment of tourism is witnessing rapid growth in leaps and bounds.

But they are quick to add that it’s not yet Uhuru.

They said like other sectors undergoing bold transformative reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the tourism sector is supposed to be
receiving its full dose of strategic attention.

Already, some said they have seen the ripple effects of community-based tourism initiatives launched as cultural festivals like Ojude Oba and Calabar Carnival once seen as local celebrations, now anchor local economies, contributing as much as 60 per cent of annual revenue in their peak seasons.

Others talked about the revamped tourist products like Ikogosi resort which has improved tourism to Ekiti State lately.

Detty December and Calabar Carnival are also driving significant revenues.

Getty December, a tourism campaign, encourages tourism to Nigeria.
Diaspora Nigerians who came home last year may have contributed to Nigeria tourism GDP.

At present, domestic tourism is said to contribute around 3.65% to GDP equating to $17.3 billion and supports over 1.9 million jobs.

The Expo therefore canvassed for a comprehensive national infrastructure development framework which they said is urgently required to systematize investment, improve regional access, and align public-private efforts toward sustainable growth.

In a Paper titled “National Framework for Nigeria’s Domestic Tourism Infrastructure Development,” one tourism operator highlighted the impressive domestic tourism performance but he pointed out that the sector could have contributed more it wasn’t hindered by lack of access to the tourism sites.

“Most tourist attractions outside urban centres lack quality roads. You can’t look too far to see Awhum Cave, Mambilla Plateau, Ogbunik Caves,” he noted.
Apart from infrastructure deficits, he said safety concerns and fragmented marketing strategies continue to hinder tourism full potential
Regardless, he said
Nigeria’s domestic tourism sector is growing rapidly, driven by youth tourism demand, increased travel, and a renewed interest in local destinations.
He highlighted the growth trends and economic impact in 2023. Quoting news reports he said
“Nigerians undertook approximately 3 million domestic trips making a 20 per cent increase from 2022.
In 2024, he stated that spending on domestic tourism reached nearly ₦4.95 trillion ($7.7 billion).

Musawa urged tourism stakeholders to continue to unlock the potential.

“The success of our national tourism agenda hinges on partnerships. Government alone cannot do it. We need private investors, destination managers, financiers, local governments, artisans, entrepreneurs, and civil society to join hands in this journey. I use this opportunity to call on the organised private sector to deepen their investment commitments, leverage innovation, and build destination brands that can compete globally,” the minister said.

She hinted that WelcomeToNigeria Expo 2025 is a sweet nod to public-private involvement.
She said the strategic forum brings together public and private actors to catalyze in a conversations and commitments towards transforming the Nigerian tourism sector.

The PermanentSecretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad also praised the maiden edition of WelcomeToNigeria Expo’25 describing it as a “call to action.”

Mohammad urged all stakeholders at the event to “embrace the conversations, explore the partnerships, and commit to the actions that will shape the future of tourism in Nigeria. Let us harness our collective energies and talents to deliver on a shared national agenda.”

He added that
“My Ministry is fully committed to supporting platforms like WelcomeToNigeria Expo, not just as a convening space, but as a tool for evidence-based policy influence. The insights, innovations, and collaborations that emerge from this Expo will help inform a more robust national framework for domestic tourism infrastructure development, support the operationalization of tourism economic zones, and promote the art, culture and the creative industries as engines of inclusive growth.”

Sago in his speech made a 7-point recommendation among which is, each state should be encouraged to present flagship projects, investment opportunities, and development plans to attract partners and foster competition through innovation.

He wants WelcomeToNigeria Expo Development Secretariat to be created to track outcomes of each edition, coordinate stakeholders’ commitments, and ensure follow-through on resolutions reached at the Expo.

To strengthen the role of the organised private sector (OPS) and corporate entities, he said
“We must deepen Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) with a renewed framework that incentivizes corporate entities to invest in national development priorities, especially in areas like power, transport, smart agriculture, and vocational education.
“The future we want for Nigeria, one of shared prosperity, efficient institutions, and sustainable infrastructure, is within reach. But it will require deliberate, inclusive, and coordinated action.”

The minister agreed. She also stressed that tourism cannot thrive in isolation.
“It depends on robust infrastructure airports, roads, rail networks, hospitality facilities, communication systems, and destination amenities.

As the meeting closed, optimism was tempered with realism.

Among other things the minister said the Ministry of Art Culture Tourism and Creative Economy is strengthening institutional frameworks and aligning with national and sub-national actors to remove bottlenecks, improve ease of doing business, and harmonize tourism-related policies.

“We are also working with the National Planning Commission and the Federal Executive Council to ensure that tourism features more prominently in national development plans.
We are committed to supporting tourism MSMEs, investing in human capital development, and embracing digital transformation.
New areas such as eco-tourism, cultural festivals, creative experiences, and diaspora tourism present major growth frontiers.
“Through the National Tourism Masterplan and the soon-to-be-launched Tourism Satellite Account, we will generate reliable data, attract more investment, in and measure sector performance more effectively,” she also stated.

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By Justina Uzo Stakeholders in the tourism sub-sector came together to call for deliberate and strategic investment in infrastructure development.They said tourist infrastructure will help to revitalize the nation’s tourism
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Ecobank Nigeria Unveils ‘Enduring Legacies’: Grand Tribute to Masters of Nigerian Art

Ecobank Nigeria Unveils ‘Enduring Legacies’: Grand Tribute to Masters of Nigerian Art

Ecobank Nigeria has announced the opening of ‘Enduring Legacies, A Collector’s Tribute to Masters’, an exclusive art exhibition celebrating the timeless creativity and cultural impact of Nigeria’s most revered visual artists.

The landmark exhibition runs from Saturday, August 30 to Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 10:00am to 6:00pm daily, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Curated with profound reverence and cultural insight, ‘Enduring Legacies’ showcases an exceptional private collection featuring seminal works by Nigeria’s artistic legends. These visionaries—whose works transcend generations—have played a defining role in shaping both the national consciousness and global appreciation of African art.

The exhibition includes masterpieces from a distinguished roster of artists, including Bruce Onobrakpeya, Twins Seven Seven, Kolade Oshinowo, Muraino Oyelami, Moses Unokwah, Jimoh Buraimoh, Rufus Ogundele, Oyerinde Olotu, Lamidi Fakeye, Sam Ovraiti, Ben Osawe, Tola Wewe, Ini Brown, Alex Nwokolo, and Tony Enebeli.

“Enduring Legacies is a heartfelt tribute to the giants of Nigerian art, those whose innovative visions and indelible contributions have forged the soul of our visual culture,” said the Head of Corporate Communications at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor. “Through this exhibition, we celebrate the transformative power of art to preserve heritage, foster identity and inspire future generations.”

He added that the exhibition reaffirms Ecobank Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to promoting African creativity and safeguarding the cultural legacy of the continent: “We are not just a bank; we are a patron of African excellence, an institution that proudly supports platforms that honour the continent’s rich artistic heritage.”

In her remarks, the exhibition’s curator, Adekepemi Aderemi, reflected on the importance of bringing these masterworks into public view: “This exhibition allows us to reconnect with the visionary minds who laid the foundation for Nigeria’s vibrant visual culture. It’s a moment to reflect, honour, and celebrate our creative inheritance,” she stated.

The collector behind the works, KrabHouse, expressed pride in sharing the collection with a wider audience that includes Nigerians, and the diaspora communities in Nigeria, “Art must be seen, felt, and remembered. This exhibition is our way of contributing to the legacy of those who painted, carved, and sculpted the soul of Nigeria.”

Art lovers, cultural custodians, scholars and collectors are invited to experience this unique moment in Nigerian art history, a rare opportunity to engage with the masterpieces that continue to shape the artistic identity of a nation.

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Ecobank Nigeria has announced the opening of ‘Enduring Legacies, A Collector’s Tribute to Masters’, an exclusive art exhibition celebrating the timeless creativity and cultural impact of Nigeria’s most revered visual
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Soludo Regrets Brutal Assault of Female Corps Member

Soludo Regrets Brutal Assault of Female Corps Member

. LP guber candidate, Moghalu, decries operatives’ brutality

Alex Enumah in Abuja and     David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo,  yesterday  expressed regret over the brutal assault of a youth corps member, Miss Jennifer Elohor, by members of the state security outfit, otherwise known as Agunechemba.

The governor, who condemned the treatment meted out to the corps member, however, assured the public  that the law must take its course.

He gave the assurance while speaking on Arise News Prime Time programme..

A viral video of the battery, including the striping of the lady by the vigilance group, had few days ago surfaced on the social media, with many condemning the act and calling for justice.

Reacting to the issue, Governor Soludo, who disclosed that the incident actually happened on July 23, but was brought to the media a month after, described the incident as very unfortunate.

The former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor observed that irrespective of the alleged offence the lady may have committed, she is not deserving of the dehumanising treatment handed her by the some operatives of the Agunechemba.

“Nobody deserves to be treated that way” Soludo said, “even if they are criminals”, adding that, “the law must take its course irrespective of who is involved”.

He disclosed that the government had earlier arrested the eight operatives involved in the act but, did not proceed with prosecution because victim’s family was initially reluctant to take action.

He, however, urged Nigerians not to use the singular incident to judge the security outfit, giving them the credit for the peace and security in the state, adding that the operatives undergo regular training on best practices.

“Once in a while when things like this happen it is unfortunate… they have been working to keep Anambra safe, the people can testify of their contributions. However, when there are excesses, actions are taken and that is what happens all over the world.

Agunechemba Security Group  said it had  handed over eight of its operatives involved in the beating and stripping of a female corps member  to the police for investigation.

The Commander of the security group, Mr. Ken Emeakayi, who paraded the men involved in the incident, said they would be handed over to the police for investigation.

On whether the men will be dismissed, Emeakayi said: “They are still under investigation, and police are not taking it lightly at all.”

Meanwhile, a candidate of the state Labour Party (LP)in the forthcoming state governorship election, Dr. George Moghalu, has called for the disbandment of the security group.

 Moghalu, who addressed journalists in his campaign office about the trending video, called for the disbandment of the security group. He said incidences of brutalisation by the group have become much, and that the federal government needs to wade in immediately.

He said: “The federal government should comment on this, moreover, because she is on a national assignment and should be protected. The federal government should also intervene in the security situation in Anambra State.

“I was saddened by what I saw in that video because it is scandalous, not just to Anambra or the state government but to every responsible person. It is unacceptable, no matter what the lady may have done, it would have been better to arrest her in the normal way and hand her over to the police, and not brutalize, tearing her up and bringing down her dignity.

“I stand on my authority to ask that Udogachi be disbanded and trained. I have said it many times that these people are not trained, they should be disbanded, and trained. Get them trained and indoctrinated to suit what we need in this state.

“This is one too many cases. They have killed, threatened, and extorted money from many, and it is unacceptable to me.”

The LP candidate added, “Where is the lady involved? The government should bring her to the public domain to tell her story. This is a civilized community. That she is a youth corps member makes the case worse because she was only serving her nation.”

Meanwhile, talking politics, Soludo maintained his earlier position that anyone telling Nigerians he can deliver the dividends of democracy in just one term is not being sincere.

He argued that even countries like China, Singapore, Malaysia and other developed economies usually referenced by Nigerian politicians took longer than one term for their policies to be fully implemented and yield desired results.

“I have been there, I have seen how time flies” he said, “we have memories and we know that when people are talking like this they are either taking us to be fools or are not sincere. “

Soludo commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for a fair, transparent and peaceful conduct of last Saturday’s by-elections in the state, noting that the huge victory recorded by the All Progressives Grand Alliance, is a confirmation that Anambra State is APGA.

While he claimed that he is not taking any opposition for granted in the forthcoming governorship election slated for November this year, the governor, said his priority presently is to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

“We are going to fight for every vote when the time comes, but for now we are concerned with execution, supervision, and commissioning of projects”, he said, adding that he is determined to transform Anambra State and make it more better before leaving office.

He claimed to have succeeded so far because of his prudent management of state resources, adding that Anambra is one state that has not gone about borrowing to fund projects.

“Nothing is wrong with borrowing but I am not going to borrow for consumption or for some mundane things”, Soludo said, just as he went ahead to list several road projects and other infrastructural projects is administration is currently embarking on.

He said: “I am very intentional on urban regeneration. “

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. LP guber candidate, Moghalu, decries operatives’ brutality Alex Enumah in Abuja and     David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo,  yesterday  expressed regret over the brutal assault of a
The post Soludo Regrets Brutal Assault of Female Corps Member appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.