Month: July 2025

FG launches SPARC App to combat Antimicrobial Resistance, boost Evidence-Based Prescribing

Lukman Laleye Babalola

In a major move to curb the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), the Federal Government has launched the Surveillance and Prescribing Support for Antimicrobial Stewardship Resource Capacity Building (SPARC) App an innovative digital tool aimed at promoting rational use of antibiotics and enhancing treatment outcomes across the healthcare sector.   The official unveiling took place on Friday in Abuja during a high-level event attended by health stakeholders and partners. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who was represented by Pharmacist (Mrs.) Olubunmi Aribeana,…

Second, Third Generation Diaspora Nigerians reaffirm Cultural Identity at NDD 2025 ….. Pelumi Nubi, Other Young Diasporans call for stronger Homeland Connections

Lukman Laleye Babalola

Younger generations of Nigerians in the diaspora have reiterated their commitment to preserving cultural identity, reconnecting with their roots, and contributing to national development. This was the central message at the Homestrings panel session held during the 2025 National Diaspora Day (NDD) celebration in Abuja.   Moderated by Ms. Aisha Dankano, the session focused on the experiences of second and third-generation diaspora Nigerians, exploring themes of identity, cultural belonging, and cross-continental collaboration. It featured a diverse lineup of young speakers who shared personal stories and perspectives on maintaining their Nigerian…

CDS hails Lagos’ ₦500bn ‘Produce for Lagos’ Initiative, calls it model for National Security and Resilience

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has applauded the Lagos State Government for launching the “Produce for Lagos” programme and establishing a ₦500 billion Offtake Guarantee Fund, describing the initiative as a visionary step that bridges the crucial link between food security and national stability.   Speaking at the official unveiling of the programme on Tuesday, 23rd July 2025, General Musa praised the collaborative efforts between the Lagos State Government, private sector partners, and the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company (LAFSINCO). He noted that the initiative…

Oyebamiji: Purpose over politics? By abiodun KOMOLAFE

Emporium Reporters

The pursuit of power and purpose often intersect in politics. This raises fundamental questions about leadership, governance, and the role of individuals in shaping their societies. In Nigeria’s context, marked by fluid alliances and shifting loyalties, a technocrat’s dilemma is particularly pronounced.   While the intersection of purpose and politics is a matter for another time, Bola Oyebamiji’s decision to run for the Osun State governorship election in 2026, under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform is a case in point. With his extensive experience in both public and private…

“Don’t Turn the Pen into a Sword” — CIPMN Boss Henry Mbadiwe urges Ethical Journalism

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Registrar-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), Mr. Henry Mbadiwe, has called on Nigerian journalists to uphold ethical standards and resist the rising tide of misinformation and sensationalism in the media space.   Mr. Mbadiwe made this call while delivering a keynote address at the DICAN Bi-Annual International Conference 2025, held in Abuja. The conference, which attracted key stakeholders in diplomacy, intelligence, and the media, focused on the theme: “Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy Amidst Global Security Challenges, Strategic Misconceptions, and…

The Uncommon Symphony: A Tribute to Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, President of the 10th Senate* By Anderson Osiebe

Emporium Reporters

*O! Ukana’s Illustrious Son!* *Akwa Ibom’s Shining Light!* *Nigerian Senate’s Sturdy Anchor!* We rise with one voice to celebrate your transformative leadership, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON. Your stewardship as President of the 10th Senate has been nothing short of revolutionary, a masterclass in legislative excellence, strategic governance, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.   I. *The Pillars of Legislative Excellence:* Building a Legacy of Impact Your presidency has redefined lawmaking in Nigeria, merging vision with tangible outcomes:   – *Unprecedented Legislative Output:* Under your gavel, the…

NUJ FCT Council mourns Veteran Journalist, Dr. Leon Usigbe

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of one of its respected senior members and veteran journalist, Dr. Leon Usigbe.   In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Secretary of the Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ FCT described Dr. Usigbe’s passing as a monumental loss to the journalism profession and the union.   According to the statement, Dr. Usigbe died on Friday, July 25, 2025, after a brief illness. He was initially treated…

Religion as a tool for national development (1) By abiodun KOMOLAFE

Emporium Reporters

The primary focus of every known religion is to lead carnal-minded people to become spiritually minded. It is to enable mortals to rise from their lowest ebb to a transformative stage, where they can connect with the divine. This spiritual growth gives rise to morality and essential values, which in turn fosters economic and national development. On the other hand, a more critical examination reveals that religion has also been used as a tool for colonialism and systematic enslavement, stressing the complexities of its role in society. Basically, Nigeria today…

Customs issues 21-Day Ultimatum to Importers Over ₦379.6bn Temporary Admission Permit defaults

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a 21-day grace period to importers who have defaulted on the conditions of their Temporary Admission Permits (TAP), warned of imminent enforcement actions for non-compliance.   Announcing this in a statement on Friday, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, said the ultimatum effective from Monday, July 28, 2025 offered affected importers a final window to regularise their status by either applying for a valid extension, re-exporting the goods under Customs supervision, or converting the items to home use with the…

Nigeria endorses Egypt’s Khaled El-Enany for UNESCO Secretary General

Lukman Laleye Babalola

Nigeria has formally endorsed Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Mr. Khaled El-Enany, as the African Union (AU) candidate for the position of Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The endorsement was announced by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on the sidelines of the Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum held in Abuja. Ambassador Tuggar described El-Enany as a globally respected cultural diplomat whose expertise in heritage preservation and international cooperation aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities and the broader aspirations of the…