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Nursing council inducts 22 Chrisland varsity students

By Yetunde Fatungase
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria on Monday inducted 22 graduating students of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, into its council as certified practitioners.

The News Agency of Nigeri(NAN) reports that the 22 graduates are the first set of nursing graduates produced by the institution.

The 22 graduates were inducted following their academic success and diligent performance in moral values, making them qualified for the profession.

In his remarks, the Registrar of the council, Dr Ndagi Al-Hassan, urged the new nurses to uphold the core values of the profession, including compassion, integrity and professionalism.

Al-Hassan, who was represented by Mr Timbuak Yamai from the Office of the Registrar, emphasised the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to technological advancements in healthcare.

Al-Hassan said, “The field of nursing is constantly evolving with the advancement of new technology and new approaches.

“You should continue to build your critical and clinical thinking, upon which you build the foundation of your nursing career in your pursuit of excellence.

“Remember that nursing is going to be a collaborative endeavour; work in harmony with fellow healthcare professionals and recognise the value of teamwork.

“Expand your knowledge and use the growth of yourselves and the experience of colleagues so that you can grow into a season professionals that the community can be proud of,” he said.

Also, speaking on the theme of the event, “From Novice to Expert: Nursing Dynamic in the Era of Digital Technology“, delivered by Prof. Prisca Adejumo, she encouraged the inductees to be digitally savvy and to leverage technology to enhance their practice.

She maintained that no one wants to respect a nurse who does all in the paper, but not technologically competent.

Adejumo admonishing them to get exposed to various clinical settings which would give them leverage among their counterparts.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Chinedum Babalola, commended the achievements of the first graduating nursing students of the school.

She also commended them for their hard work and dedication, noting that they had set a high standard for future nursing students.

The professor noted that they had laid a good legacy by showcasing the school at national and international conferences.

One of the inductees Amusan Chuwkudumebi, who came out with First Class, expressed his commitment to providing quality patient care and contributing positively to the healthcare industry.

Another inductee, Adele Temitope, said he aspires to be a well-grounded nurse in theory and practice.

According to him, his plan is to represent the nation on the global stage.

Chrisland University produced six First-Class students from its School of Nursing.

Nigeria needs urgent reform in education — Minister of Justice

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has said there was an urgent need to reform Nigeria education system to nurture democracy.

Fagbemi made the call on Friday while delivering the 39th Convocation Lecture of the University of Ilorin titled: “Nurturing Democratic Values and Education for the Future of Nigeria”.

He underscored the need to reform the nation’s educational system in such a way that it nurtures democracy and society.

According to him, Nigeria’s educational system must be overhauled in such a way to “imbue in us the democratic values ofq tolerance, respect for others
and for the Rule of Law”.

The AGF also said that Nigeria’s educational system must be overhauled to re-orientate the citizens to understand that democracy is synonymous with engagement, transparency and collaboration.

He submitted that it was not just a theoretical concept devoid of challenges and conflicts.

The minister observed that education reform should involve focusing on transforming the way Nigerian people think through education.

“Success should be measured by our broad-mindedness and openness to all aspects of life – nature, society, history, truth, and most importantly, to our fellow humans who work with us towards a common goal.

“It is doubtful whether our current educational system can adequately address these tasks,” he said.

Fagbemi said that democracy is a dynamic struggle and not static, adding that, it behoves Nigerians to eschew violence in all its ramifications.

“The future of Nigeria requires strong democratic values nurtured through an inclusive, just and equitable educational system. Education and Democracy are mutually reinforcing.

“The task of overhauling the colonial-era curriculum to promote justice, equality, and freedom and create a more just and united society must begin at once.

“In short, the integration of democratic values in our educational system will not
only enhance academic excellence and development.

“It will also build transparent and accountable leaders, consolidate national unity, thus making our country, Nigeria, more equitable, just and progressive”, he said.

While exhorting the graduands, the Minister charge them to impact positively and not negatively on the society.

He said: “I implore you to use your knowledge and skills, for the good of the society, take initiative, think creatively, advance the social good and eschew evil and all appearances of evil.

“You must be champions of democracy and advocates of a strong, peaceful, prosperous and united Nigeria.

“Convocation itself marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. It is also a time of looking back and reflecting on the road ahead; when the graduates consider how they can use their newly gained knowledge and skills to contribute positively to society.

He added that the graduands should serve with conscience and love for humanity, adding that the has education they had acquired has equipped them to understand the complexities of the society.

“There are no definitive black-and-white answers. Always remember that your education is not just a personal accomplishment but a tool for societal influence,” he said.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), who said that education plays pivotal role in democratic setting.

In his address was entitled: “”No education, No Nation”, Egbewole stated that citizens should be educated to be able to ask right question from their leaders.

He explained that education promotes values of integrity and accountability.

The VC pointed out that the graduands were already grounded in learning and chatacter and should make use of thier knowledge for the benefit of the society.

Don advocates inclusion of women’s rights in Nigerian constitution

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Oct. 4, 2024 (NAN) Prof Mahmud Adebayo, of the Department Private and Property Law of the University of Ilorin has advocated inclusion of women’s right in the nation’s constitution, as part of the third generation of rights.

Adebayo made the submission on Friday in Ilorin during his paper presentation at the 265th Inaugural Lecture of the University entitled: “On the Reproductive Authonomy of My Right or Not My Choice”.

The don who teaches in the Faculty of Law of the University of Ilorin said the right includes capacity to reproduce and access to safe, effective, affordable and acceptable methods of regulation of fertility.

“There is also the right of access to health care for safe pregnancy and child birth. To experience a pleasurable sexuality, which is an important means of communication and love between couple.

“Sexual right include liberty and freedom in the responsible exercise of sexuality. Sexual rights are important because they ensure respect within a relationship,” he said.

According to him, gender equality cannot be obtained without sexual rights and that without respect for sexual rights as human rights, women and girls are at the risk of genital mutilation.

He observed that the reproductive health rights encircled certain human rights that are already recognised by national laws and international human rights documents and consensus instruments and covenants.

“Health rights consist of the recognition of the basic rights of all couple to decide freely and responsibly; the number, spacing and timing of their children and to have information and means to do so and the highest standard of reproductive health.

“It also includes the right to make decisions concerning reproduction free from discrimination, coercion and violence and the rights of women to have control over her body and decide freely on matters related to their sexuality,” he said.

Adebayo asserts that a manifestation of these rights suggests protection from violence against women.

He postulated that these rights will prevent violence against women, trafficking in women and children; sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation and early girl child marriage.

“More concerned efforts should be made in educating men and women about the advantages of allowing women exercise, not only their economic rights, but also reproductive rights.

“This will improve the quality of life of women and their family and by implications the whole nation,” he said.

Edo guber election: Friends, Ovia youths in novelty match to mobilise for Denco

By Usman Aliyu

Friends of Dennis Idahosa, the running mate to the APC governorship candidate, and Ovia Youths on Thursday engaged in a novelty match to mobilise support ahead of the Saturday election in Edo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match was decided at the public field of Igobazuwa in tbe Ovia North East Local Government Area of the state.

Idahosa’s friends popularly known as “Friends of Denco” defeated the Ovia youths by a lone in the highly entertaining match, played amidst funfair and mild downpour.
The encounter witnessed a large turn out of the youth in the area.

Idahosa, who is representing Ovia constituency at the House of Representatives expressed gratitude to the organisers and the participants for the solidarity support.

“I’m thrilled by this show of love and support from my friends and constituents.
“This novelty match demonstrates our unity and commitment to the APC’s vision for Edo,” said Idahosa, who was represented by Eghosa Omomo.

NAN reports that the event featured presentation of a trophy to the victorious side as well as laurel to valuable players of the match.

Edo Action Alliance debunks endorsement of APC Governorship Candidate

Edo State Action Alliance, AA, Governorship candidate, Comrade Osaro Uwaifo says the Party has not endorsed any Governorship candidate for this Saturday Edo State Governorship election.

Comrade Uwaifo who is also the Edo State Chairman of the Action Alliance stated this in an interview with Newsmen in Benin City, the Edo State Capital while reacting to reports of the party’s endorsement of the APC Governorship Candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo by one Mr Tom Iseghohi- Okojie.

Comrade Uwaifo noted that from the current economic situation thats characterises hardship which Nigerians are experiencing, his party will never endorse APC.

The Edo Action Alliance Governorship Candidate who provided Documents including the Certified True Copy of INEC monitoring report as exhibits to Newsmen, said Mr Iseghohi- Okojie remained an imposter trying to use the party apparatus for selfish interest.

He noted that the appeal court sitting in Abuja few weeks ago has laid the matter to rest by declaring him , Comrade Osaro Uwaifo as the Edo State Action Alliance Governorship Candidate in this Saturday Governorship election in the State.

While calling on security agencies to call Mr Iseghohi-Okogie to order, Comrade Uwaifo appealed to Edo electorates to note that Action Alliance as a party has not endorsed any other Governorship Candidate as it’s flagg bearer in the State for Saturday Governorship election.

Ovia youths unite for novelty match for Denco, to promotie unity, community spirit

In a bid to promote unity and showcase the positive impact of sports on youths and society, a novelty football match has been organised between Friends of DENCO and the vibrant Youths of Ovia federal Constituency.

DENCO, Dennis Idahosa is the House of Representatives member for Ovia constituency and Deputy Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Party (APC) for Sept 21 election in Edo state.

The match, scheduled for Wednesday, Sept 18 at 4 pm at the public field in Iguobazuwa, Ovia South West of the promised to be an energetic and fun-filled event.

The match, which will be streamed live on various social media platforms, aims to bring together youths from across Ovia local government area, cutting across the South West and North East regions.

Renowned sports broadcaster, Adeleke Ayoola, will provide live commentary, while Ex-Super Eagles legend, Edema Fuludu, will serve as the match commissioner.

According to organisers, the match was designed to promote unity, community spirit, and showcase the positive impacts of sports on youths and society.

It also seeks to create an atmosphere where sports can serve as a bridge between government and the people.

The event promises to be an exciting display of football skills, teamwork, and camaraderie, with the vibrant youths of Ovia federal Constituency coming together to celebrate the power of sports.

Reduce interest rate on loans to 1%, Manufacturers beg FG

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Aug. 27, 2024 (NAN) The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) on Tuesday expressed dismay over present interest rate on loans among its members, urging that it should be further reduced to one per cent.

Chief Bioku Rahman, the outgoing Chairman of MAN, (Kwara/Kogi,), made the call in Ilorin while speaking at the Association’s 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The theme of the meeting is entitled: “Tackling the Challenges of the Manufacturing Sector: A Win-Win For Government and Local Manufacturers”.

According to him, the present interest rates are killing their businesses.

The association urged the federal government to urgently direct the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to drastically reduce interest rates on industrial loans.

Rahman said: ” the CBN should as well direct Commercial Banks to reduce interest rates on industrial loans.

“The Interest rates charged on Industrial Loans and other loans released as COVID-19 palliatives should be significantly reduced further to one per cent,” he said.

He also urged the Bank of industry (BOI) to approve and urgently roll out further reductions in its lending rates to industries, asking the CBN to wave many conditions for its foreign exchange policies to local manufacturers.

Similarly, he urged CBN to widen the window of Foreign Exchange to Local Industries, while urging the federal government to harmonise taxes and levies at Federal, State and Local Government levels.

Rahman, who implored Kwara government to boost energy to his members’ survival, added that a Heavy-Duty Gas-Energy Generation and Distribution Plant exclusively for Kwara Industrialists is needed.

The group’s helmsman again wanted the federal government to reconsider the present gross increase in the electricity tariff.

Reflecting on the effect of oil subsidy removal on the local manufacturers, the MAN call on the government to urgently come to the association aid because the bitter removal of subsidy in Nigeria has left manufacturers in unprecedented comatose.

Speaking also, Mrs Damilola Adelodun, the state commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, pledged the state government’s continual support for the Association to boost the economy of the state.

Adelodun who represented Gov. abdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara reiterated the resolve of the government to create conducive environment for the manufacturers in the state.

“The state has undertaken several key
initiatives to support the manufacturing sector and overall economic development.

“The Urban Renewal Initiative is transforming the architectural landscape of Kwara to enhance its aesthetic appeal and functionality, making it a more attractive place for businesses and residents,” he said.

In his address, the President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, described the relation between the state government and MAN as cordial.

He appealed to the state government that infrastructure around the industrial estates be upgraded.

Smile train commences free repair of cleft-lips for Kwara children

The Smile Train foundation in conjunction with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), on Monday in Ilorin commenced free surgical intervention for the repair of cleft lips ans cleft palate for children across Kwara.

Speaking on the sidelines of the campaign rally,, Prof. AbdulRasheed Nasir, the Team Lead of Smile Train Partners, UITH told newsmen that the rally was to sensitize people on the congenital deformity.

He stated that Smile Train has made provision of free surgical intervention for the repair of cleft lips and cleft palate for children.

“The foundation is ready to admit and repair as many cases of cleft lips condition as we can get.

“The present number of patient is below the expected required number. We urge to mothers and caregivers to bring their children for intervention,” he said.

According to him, people have false beliefs that clefts are caused by demons or witchcraft, and that some of these children were abandoned to die.

He explained that people should not hide children with such condition, adding that everything that has to do with surgery, care and transportation of the patient is free.

Also speaking, Mrs Victoria Ogundipe, the Seniour Programme Manager, West Africa, Smile Train stated that

She described Smile Train as the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, with a sustainable and local model of supporting surgery and other forms of essential care.

According to her, the organization is partnering with UITH to ensure every child with the condition receives care.

She lamented that some children don’t live to see their first birthday, due to the stigma and neglect they face, adding that the congenital condition can be corrected surgically free of charge.

Ogundipe appeal to mothers and care givers to bring their children with these conditions for free repairs.

Dr Adeyemi Moshood, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at UITH explained that the rally is to sensitize people on facial congenital problem, adding that people have started coming out to seek help as a result of the rally.

He added that one in every 1,700 live births come down with the condition, and that people should endevour to bring thier children to the teaching hospital.

SDGs: Kwara Govt. sensitises MDAs on recycling waste to wealth management

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Aug. 23, 2024 (NAN) The Kwara Government, on Froday in Ilorin sensitized Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) in the state on conversion of waste to wealth management in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 9, 11 and 12.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the SDGs includes; Goal 8, titled; Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 9; Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure | Access to Insurance Initiative.

Others are Goal 11- titled: “Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Goal 12 is about ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns, which is key to sustain the livelihoods of current and future.

In her address, Hajia Mariam Imam, the Seniour Special Assistant to Kwara Governor on SDGs, said the goal of the convention is to explore vital topics that will help navigate the present.

She apoke on the theme: “Harnessing Today’s Opportunities for a Sustainable Future”,

According to her, it is also expected that this convention will ensure a prosperous and secure future for everyone,
especially those approaching retirement in the Civil Service.

She said: “We aim to equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to harness opportunities in agriculture, information and communication technology, entrepreneurship, and other related fields of endeavour.

“This is so you can thrive both professionally and personally which is in line with SDG Goal 8, 9, 11 and 12,” she said.

In his presentation, Mr Olushola Gegele, a Regenerative Entrepreneur expert said there are many opportunities in utilizing waste and converting them to wealth.

He submitted that rice husks and sawdust from the agricultural and wood industries, which are abundant in Nigeria can be used as substrate for growing mushrooms .

He postulated that the mushrooms business is billion dollars industry which is capable of bring huge income to Nigeria.

According to him, mushrooms are one of the easiest foods to grow, nutritious and that it boosts the immune system of the body.

Gegele added that the substrate on which the mushrooms are grown are later converted to fertilizer for the soil, adding that this is creation of value chain where nothing is wasted.

He observed that what is regarded as waste is no longer waste but could be processed and converted to another product, adding that people should start collection of pure water nylon, plastics and iron where it could be sold to industries for recycling.

Gegele advised the participants to form cluster association and become collectors and recyclers of wastes to wealth projects in the state.

According to him, the state government is already providing enabling environment for industries to go into recycling of wastes.

Also speaking, Mr Ishola Kayode, the Special Adviser to AbdulRazaq of Digital Innovation assert that people can leverage on technology ans social mwdia for personal growth.

He opined that there technology can be applied in agriculture to boost food production.

Muslim women group to establish orphanage, widows vacational center in Kwara

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Aug. 18, 2024 (NAN) The Nawair-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, (NUDS) National Women’s Wing has said it will establish an orphanage and a vocational center for widows in Ilorin, Kwara capital.

Alhaja Muibat Aribidesi, the National Chairperson of the NUDS Women’s Wing, stated this in Ilorin during her address at the 2nd National Mothers’ Day and Award presentation organized by the association.

The theme of the programme was entitled: “Celebrating Mothers in Islam”.

She stated that the event was aimed at raising funds for a Muslim Orphanage home and a Vocational Center for widows and less privileged individuals.

According to her, the National Mothers’ Day celebration recognised the invaluable contributions of mothers to the Islamic community and society.

She described devoted mothers as women who give most and all their time, efforts, money and resources for their children’s upbringing.

“As a mother, it is important we understand the generation our children belongs and their characteristics as our roles does not change irrespective to our generation.

“A number of issues we have today starts from the home. A well brought up child makes the family proud and goes to the society to transform the society for better,” she said.

Aribidesi quoted the Holy Prophet Muhammad as saying that: “A mother is a school. If she is well versed, the whole family will be well versed”.

Also speaking, the National President, Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf, said the global community through the United Nations Organizations has placed great values on Motherhood for their immense contributions to human development.

He commended the women for their efforts and spiritual roles on shaping the younger ones from cradle till adulthood.

The President encouraged the NUDS women’s wing to empower female members in need, provide skill acquisition workshops, capacity building training, and material and financial assistance to improve their standard of living.

Alhaji Ibrahim Dan-Maigori, the Seniour Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs matter Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara
called on parents to be role models for their children.

Dan-Maigoro who represented the governor observed that women deserved to be empowered in various appointments of governance.

He also advised mothers to be careful and monitor thier children against the negative influence of social media.

In her lecture, Prof. Mulkah Ahmed, of the Department of Science Education, University of Ilorin, emphasised the crucial role of mothers in shaping the lives of their children, families and society as a whole.

Her presentation was entitled: “Generational Influence: Unveiling the Power of a Devoted Mother.”

She pointed out that mothers hold a prestigious and honourable position in Islam.

Ahmed tasks mothers on raising righteous generation, saying that children must be entrenched in ethical and moral upbringing in knowing the difference between roght and wrong.

She said teaching of Islamic education and moral must start from the home, adding there must emitional support and comfort for children to thrive.

The don also warned mothers against cursing their children whenever they do wrong, adding that what is recommended by the prophet of Islam is prayers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlight of the event includes presentation of awards to women who have contributed to society.

Some of those honoured includes the wife of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaja Rafat Sulu-Gambari, Ambassador Nimota Akanbi, the former envoy to Netherlands, and Dr Saka Ayinke, the former Kwara Commissioner for Health.