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Leading Intellectuals, Policymakers, Technocrats to Gather in Abuja for Reawakening the African Renaissance
Leading Intellectuals, Policymakers, Technocrats to Gather in Abuja for Reawakening the African Renaissance
By: Michael Mike
Leading intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers would be gathered in Abuja to engage in stimulating discussions and showcase bold ideas and disruptive solutions that can propel Africa towards a future of inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.
The gathering is organized by the School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) in partnership with Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, named “Big Ideas Platform”
The first edition under the broad theme of “Reawakening the African Renaissance: Pathways to Inclusive Growth and Development”, debuted in 2023 and had five dynamic citizens of Africa whose ideas illuminated bold solutions that can enhance the quality of life in African communities shared a platform to tell a diverse audience the story of their big idea.
According to a statement on Monday, this year’s edition is also a collaboration of the School of Politics, Policy & Governance (SPPG) and Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, taking place on May 25th, 2024, will explore the theme “Information Technology and Behavioural Change”.
The statement added that this thought leadership initiative event will gather leading intellectuals, policymakers, technocrats, and changemakers to engage in stimulating discussions and showcase bold ideas and disruptive solutions that can propel Africa towards a future of inclusive prosperity and sustainable development.
The statement further revealed that @The Big Ideas Platform” is an intellectual convergence of concepts, a marketplace of ideas, where exceptional African minds convene to engage in robust conversations. The platform will facilitate the sharing, generation and collaboration of fresh ideas, innovative solutions and implementation strategies to address Africa’s plethora of challenges.
Speaking on the event, the CEO of SPPG,
Alero Ayida-Otobo, said: “The Big Ideas Platform is a thought leadership initiative that serves as a platform for launching new thinking, spotlighting visionary individuals, and illuminating bold ideas that have the potential to improve the lives of African communities”
According to her, the Big Ideas Platform will serve as a catalyst for change, fostering a community of forward-thinking individuals committed to translating ideas into impactful actions that shape the continent’s future.
She disclosed that the Big Ideas Platform 2024 focuses on the crucial role of information technology and behavioural change in propelling Africa towards a better future.
Dr Amina, Faculty of SPPG, said, “We must remember that technology is a tool, and for a sustainable and enduring African Renaissance, we must reconsider how technology is harnessed to drive system change that benefits everyone, helping to shift behaviour from damaging to managing our scarce resources.”
Key areas of focus at Big Ideas Platform 2024, according to the statement, will include: Blockchain technology: This is premised on immutable records to protect legal tender such as academic certificates and to earn revenue; Virtual Reality: A four-dimensional visual experience of hard-to-reach places such as conflict zones to build awareness and empathy and inform accurate urgent action; Artificial intelligence: Non-animate machines trained to think and act like humans for humans, for example, identifying fake news; Environmental Awareness: Child-centred learning tools to shift children’s understanding of waste and its management to secure wealth and the environment.
The lineup of panellists for this year’s edition include: Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, EdTech professional and Founder of Passnownow.com; Oluseun Badejo, Team Lead of SPPG Blockchain project; Mrs. Sian (Shan) Cuffy Young, Founder of Siel (Sigh-el) Environmental; and Ahmad Salkida, Investigative Reporter.
According to the statement, the event is opened to the public, and registration is free. It will be a great opportunity to learn from thought leaders and professionals, who have the requisite knowledge about improving Africa’s economy and enhancing its development.
The event is scheduled for May 25, 2024 between 9:00 AM – 12 PM WAT (GMT+1) at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre and would be zoomed live, interested members of the public are advised to register
on thesppg.org/bip2024 website and stay up to date with event updates.
Leading Intellectuals, Policymakers, Technocrats to Gather in Abuja for Reawakening the African Renaissance
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NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
By: Vincent Ikuomola
The National Directorate of Employment has distanced itself from the message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide.
NDE in its disclaimer said the message is fake and it did not emanate from its office.
The Directorate therefore urged the general public to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
NDE management also said any official announcements, programmes, or directives from it are communicated through verified channels such as its official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
The agency stated in a disclaimer: “The attention of the management of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has been drawn to a message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide, claiming the registration will last for three weeks and encouraging the public to share the information widely.
“The NDE wishes to categorically state that this information is false and did not originate from us. The public is advised to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
“Any official announcements, programmes, or directives from the NDE are communicated through verified channels such as our official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
“We urge the public to verify any information attributed to the NDE to avoid being misled by false or unauthorized communications.
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has reaffirmed her commitment to fostering global sustainability at the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Week held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who made the reaffirmation on behalf of the Nigerian government,
emphasized the country’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, climate action, and energy transition.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role as a key player in Africa’s green energy transition and its commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Tuggar also stated that “the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week provides an important platform for nations to collaborate, innovate, and accelerate solutions to global sustainability challenges. Nigeria is committed to fostering international partnerships and implementing policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As Africa’s largest economy, we recognize our duty to lead by example and champion a sustainable future for our continent and the world.”
The highlights of Nigeria’s participation in the event included showcasing the country’s Decade of Gas Initiative, which positions natural gas as a transitional energy source while scaling investments in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 and outlined ongoing projects such as afforestation programmes, renewable energy infrastructure, and climate-resilient agricultural practicesbeing undertaken by the government.
He also noted Nigeria’s willingness to partner with international stakeholders to finance and implement innovative solutions in clean energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development, while advocating for increased support for African nations in climate financing, technology transfer, and capacity-building, stressing the importance of inclusivity in global sustainability efforts.
He said: “The world is at a critical juncture where the choices we make today will define the legacy we leave for future generations. Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with our global partners to ensure that no nation or region is left behind in the quest for a sustainable future.”
The Minister, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extended gratitude to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and fostering dialogue on these crucial issues.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
News
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
By: Michael Mike
In a bid to address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers
Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged the National Assembly to allocate adequate funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development.
As various Federal Ministries, Parastatals, Directorates, and Institutions appeared before the National Assembly to defend their 2025 budget. KACRAN passionately appeal for their support in prioritizing the Ministry of Livestock Development, insisting that this is essential for fostering peace and stability in the country.
In a statement on Friday, the association outlines the rationale for its request to include: “New Ministry with Significant Potential, Established by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to resolve the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers while enhancing food security and economic productivity. By creating millions of jobs and attracting investment in the livestock sector, this ministry holds
great promise.
“Leadership of High Calibre: KACRAN is optimistic about the ministry’s success under the leadership of distinguished individuals such as Honourable Alhaji Idi Muktar, the pioneer minister and a seasoned livestock farmer, along with Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma
Akujobi, a Veterinary Doctor, and Mrs. Winnie Lai Solarin, the dedicated Director of Animal Husbandry Services. Their commitment to advancing government policies will significantly
benefit the livestock sector.
“Empowering Voiceless Beneficiaries: It is crucial to advocate for the voiceless beneficiaries residing in remote areas, who often have limited access to government services. The establishment of this ministry provides a vital opportunity for our members to become direct beneficiaries of national resources.
“Significant Presidential Support: The President has demonstrated a strong commitment to the livestock sector through the establishment of this ministry and the appointment of qualified personnel. It is imperative that the National Assembly recognizes the importance of this ministry
in the upcoming budget discussions
“Need for Structural Support: The Ministry currently lacks essential infrastructure necessary for its effective operation. Therefore, we urge members of the National Assembly to provide special
consideration and favorable budget allocations to ensure the ministry’s success.
“Consequences of Inadequate Funding: Insufficient funding could severely hinder the ministry’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities, which would have negative repercussions for the entire country. The livestock sector is vital for our economy, contributing significantly to revenue
generation and providing essential products consumed by nearly all Nigerians.”
KACRAN said: “In light of the numerous benefits that an effectively functioning Ministry of Livestock Development can bring, once again we appeal to members of the National Assembly to consider multiplying or tripling the proposed budget for this ministry. Such action will pave the
way for increased agricultural production, job creation, economic growth, resolution of conflicts between herders and farmers, and the establishment of lasting peace in Nigeria.”
It extended heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry
and the appointment of capable leadership, while calling upon all Northern Governors to expedite the establishment of similar ministries in their states.”
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
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