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LASU Matriculates 12,590 Students, Reaffirms Commitment to Student-Centered Education

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Lagos State University, LASU has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders as it matriculated 12,590 students for the 2024/2025 academic session.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, made this declaration at the matriculation ceremony held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, LASU main campus, Ojo.

Addressing the newly admitted students, Professor Olatunji-Bello emphasized that LASU is a student-centered institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and leadership skills. She noted that the students were selected from over 50,000 applicants, making their admission a significant achievement.

She urged them to make the most of the opportunity by remaining focused on their studies.
“You are privileged to be among the few chosen to study in this prestigious university. It is essential that you dedicate yourselves to academic excellence and personal development,” she advised.

The Vice-Chancellor also reiterated LASU’s commitment to academic freedom and a safe learning environment. She stressed that the university has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual and gender-based violence, urging students to report any incidents.

“If you see something, say something,” she stated, encouraging students to speak up against harassment and misconduct.

She congratulated parents, guardians, and family members, acknowledging their support in shaping the students’ educational journey. She concluded by encouraging students to strive for excellence and expressed hope that they would graduate successfully.

Earlier, the Acting Dean of the Students’ Affairs Division, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, congratulated the new intakes and urged them to push beyond mediocrity. He encouraged them to adopt a mindset of discovery, challenge their intellect, and engage in learning beyond the classroom.
“The future belongs to those who work for it. Embrace knowledge, question norms, and seek personal and academic growth,” he said.

Dr. Fatai-Abatan reassured students of the university’s support in making their LASU experience fulfilling and transformative. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a good reputation as an ambassador of the university, upholding its core values of academic excellence, truth, service, and integrity.

A special motivational address was delivered by LASU alumnus and financial controller, Mr. Ayoola Onabogun, who encouraged students to stay focused, dream big, and view challenges as stepping stones to success.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Director of JAMB Lagos Zonal Office, the Registrar of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Mr. Ope Akinfenwa, and members of the university management.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Oseni Afisi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Adenike Boyo, Registrar Mr. Emmanuel A. Fanu, University Bursar Mr. Said Babatunde Olayinka, and University Librarian Dr. Omawunmi Makinde.

Deans of faculties and schools, academic and non-academic staff, parents, and guardians also graced the well-attended ceremony, marking the official induction of the new students into the LASU academic community.

CAPPA, Others Urge International Maritime Organisation To Exclude Biofuels From Global Fuel Standard

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CAPPA Condemns Police Crackdown on Lagos Demolition Protest

…Warn That Shipping Industry’s Biofuels Plan Threatens Rainforests, Communities and Climate

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA and 68 other international nongovernmental organisations have warned the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) against promoting biofuels as Global Fuel Standard, GFS and an alternative to petrol in international shipping, saying it threatens rainforests and communities in host countries.

The NGOs, in an open letter to the IMO Secretariat on February 17, 2025, called on the IMO’s 176 Member States to oppose the promotion of biofuels in international shipping and commit to a future powered by clean energy.

They stressed that the design of the Global Fuel Standard should be based on stringent life cycle assessment guidelines that exclude the use of biofuels while protecting the climate, the environment, and the livelihood of people.

According to the IMO, the Global Fuel Standard is a technical measure to reduce greenhouse gas, GHG emissions from ships and to help meet the IMO’s decarbonization targets.

The letter comes ahead of the IMO’s finalisation of its negotiations on key climate laws for international shipping, at a series of meetings in London.

The discussions will determine which fuels and technologies will power this sector, to limit shipping’s harmful environmental impacts and achieve its historic climate commitment.

According to the organisations, shipping consumes a massive 5 per cent of global oil production – more than any single country outside China and the US. However, some countries and companies are quietly planning to set rules that aim to replace most of this huge fossil fuel demand with biofuels.

“This risks causing even more climate and environmental damage than oil, not less,” the NGOs warned, adding that the IMO’s 176 member states “must exclude biofuels from the industry’s energy mix, due to their devastating impacts on climate, communities, forests and other ecosystems.

These impacts include land and water grabbing, loss of food sovereignty, threats to food security, and widespread ecological harm. Instead, the IMO needs to prioritise real solutions for shipping, with clear policy incentives, including demand reduction and efficiency improvements.

“In July 2023, the IMO adopted the Revised GHG Strategy committing to net-zero GHG emissions by around 2050. One of the key policies to achieve this target is the Global Fuel Standard (GFS), which aims to incentivise the use of clean energy on ships, which the IMO promised to finalise in April 2025. Allowing the use of biofuels under the GFS would jeopardize the very goals the IMO seeks to achieve.”

The letter called out the Brazilian government, which will host the next United Nations Climate Conference, COP30 in Belém in November, as one of the key IMO members pushing for the uptake of biofuels in shipping as part of plans to increase the global market for its expanding biofuel industry.

CAPPA, Global Justice Ecology Project, Biofuelwatch, National Farmers Union (Canada), Earthjustice International, Proyecto Lemu (Argentina), Australian Forests and Climate Alliance, and the other signatories to the letter, noted that at the last round of IMO negotiations in October 2024, Brazil put forward biofuels as a long-term solution to power shipping but argued that this proposal would promote the use of unsustainable biofuels.

“Additionally, Brazil’s palm oil production is also expanding and has been linked to water pollution and large-scale land grabbing, much of it illegal. Now Brazil is looking at shipping as its next customer for biofuels, but the social and environmental costs linked to this market expansion would be catastrophic.

“Food- and feed-based biofuels are connected to deforestation, food insecurity, land and water grabbing and pollution from pesticides, all of which Brazil is already facing. Neighbouring countries are dealing with similar problems: recent studies show concern for the increased deforestation rates in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela due to the expansion of cropland for soy, oil palm, cocoa, maize, rice, and cassava (Richens, 2024).”

The letter referenced studies showing that the direct and indirect land use change impacts of biofuels from vegetable oils, especially from soy and palm oil exceed the life-cycle emissions of fossil diesel.

“Wastes and residues, including animal fats, are in limited supply and existing demand far exceeds their availability. Furthermore, many of those residues and wastes have high indirect greenhouse gas emissions, due to competition between biofuels and other uses.

“Communities in many countries of the global South, including Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Indonesia, Malaysia or Cameroon, are already facing the consequences of vast and rapidly expanding monoculture plantations of oil palm, soy and other crops in demand for biofuels. This has devastating impacts on small farmers and indigenous communities, including effects on health due to the intense use of pesticides. We do not want to witness what could happen in those countries if biofuel production should escalate to meet the demand of such a giant – international shipping.”

Another consequence of the production of liquid biofuels, the NGOs, said, is that it risks exacerbating existing gender-based inequalities, and therefore contributing to the socio-economic marginalization of women, threatening their livelihoods and in particular their food security.

In conclusion, the groups said sustainable solutions for “decarbonization of the shipping sector already exist. These include improved energy efficiency through stricter standards and innovative ship designs, and the adoption of advanced propulsion technologies like wind assistance. Reducing the volume of goods transported by sea is also a vital step to reduce the environmental impact of global trade.”

Fidelity Bank Enhances Educational Facilities in Benin, Abuja

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blacktalker
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Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to enhancing its host communities’ lifestyles. Through its dedicated education Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillar, the bank recently undertook significant projects aimed at promoting quality education delivery across the country.

In Benin-City, Edo State, Fidelity Bank recently renovated the library at Emotan College, Wire Road. This initiative, which was executed under the auspices of the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP), was championed by the Phoenix Inductee Class of Fidelity Bank. The FHHP allows Fidelity Bank staff to identify community needs, raise funds, and receive matching support from the bank to implement impactful projects.

At the official handover ceremony, Ovie Mukoro, Regional Bank Head, Midwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, highlighted the alignment of the renovation project with the bank’s CSR pillars, emphasizing the promotion of quality education and youth empowerment. Mukoro stated, “The renovation project reflects the Bank’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its host communities through the dedication and generosity of its newly inducted staff who voluntarily contributed funds to support the project.”

The Principal of Emotan Junior College, Mrs. Idukpaye Henrietta, expressed her gratitude, noting that the investment in the school is an investment in the nation’s future. She looked forward to a lasting partnership that would continue to uplift and empower the students. Similarly, Mrs. Sandra Iyalekhue, Acting Education Secretary, Oredo Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), commended Fidelity Bank for the kind gesture, noting that the project would contribute to the educational development of the students and promote research work.

In Abuja, Fidelity Bank further demonstrated its CSR commitment by donating 40 tables and chairs to LEA School at the Federal Capital Territory. This initiative, also executed under the FHHP by the Prodigies Inductees Class, aims to support quality education delivery in a bid to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 – Quality Education.

Meksley Nwagboh, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the importance of supporting education as a tool for societal improvement. He stated, “At Fidelity Bank, we recognize the importance of supporting education as a tool for improving society. Through initiatives like this, we aim to ensure that every child has access to essential educational resources and become an asset to their family, their community and the nation.”

The headmaster of LEA School, Mr. Mohamed Musa, expressed his gratitude for the timely intervention, noting that the donation would address the critical need for adequate classroom seating, preventing students from having to sit on the floor during classes. He encouraged other corporations to follow Fidelity Bank’s lead and support quality education delivery.

These initiatives come to join a long list of Fidelity Bank’s interventions in the education sector. It will be recalled that the bank launched the Read2Lead Initiative last year to foster a culture of reading and writing among young people. The bank also hosted a webinar targeted at businesses operating in the education sector, themed, “Maintaining Educational Standards Amidst Current Economic Realities”, in September 2024 as part of its strategy to improve the country’s education system.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 million customers through digital banking channels, its 251 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

Governor Soludo Grieves Death of Elder Statesman, Chief Edwin Clark

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The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed deep grief on the passing of a most distinguished Nigerian elder statesman and Pan-Niger Delta Forum leader, Chief Edwin Clark, on Tuesday at the age of 97.

In his condolence message, Governor Soludo extolled Chief Clark as an extraordinary Nigerian patriot who served this nation with uncommon dedication as a former Federal Commissioner for Information and leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

His voice resonated not just for the Niger Delta, but for all of Nigeria. As a lawyer, educationist, and elder statesman, Chief Clark’s interventions on national issues were marked by wisdom, foresight, and a dogged commitment to national unity founded on the principles of justice and equity.

The Governor further stated that Chief Clark was ever unapologetic in his pursuit of justice, equity, and true federalism, as his life exemplified the possibility of building bridges across ethnic and regional lines for the greater good of our nation. Although Chief Clark’s passing marks the end of an era, his uncompromising pursuit of a united, just, and truly federal Nigeria lives on.

In a release signed by Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Soludo also mourns the recent passing of Afenifere leader Pa. Ayo Adebanjo, who died at 96. He was also known to be a relentless advocate for true federalism and will be dearly missed.

Therefore, Governor Soludo commiserates with the families of Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the people of Niger Delta and Yoruba land, PANDEF and Afenifere, praying that their souls rest in peace.

Lagos State Command and Control Centre Trains First Responders on Effective Disaster Management, Emergency Coordination

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The Lagos State Command and Control Centre, in collaboration with its Technical Partner, Leapsoft Limited has trained first responders from State and Federal Agencies to strengthen their response capabilities to emergencies and ensure effective disaster management.

The programme with the theme: “Standardising Emergency Response: Training First Responders on Best Practices for Efficiency and Impact”, was to create a unified platform to build the capacities of first responders, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle emergencies and various forms of violence effectively.

In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Sesan Ogundeko, noted that the training aimed to boost coordination among first responders, ultimately enhancing the protection of lives and property in Lagos.

”With this training, first responders will be better equipped to handle emergencies efficiently, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.”

General Manager of the Lagos Command and Control Centre, Femi Giwa, who described the training as a major milestone in strengthening Lagos State’s emergency response framework, said the programme also educated participants on legal and institutional frameworks, victim management during emergencies, and international best practices for disaster response.

According to Giwa, the training was designed to enhance response capabilities by providing a structured platform for first responders to understand and implement standard operating procedures. It was also to enable them to comprehend state response plans and their specific roles during disasters.

“First responders are the backbone of emergency management and the first line of defense in times of crisis. Their ability to make effective decisions within the golden hour—the critical period between life and death—depends on the level of training they have received,” he stated.

The General Manager also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for elevating the Command and Control Centre to an Agency under the Ministry of Special Duties.

“This training underscores the commitment of the Lagos State Government to ensuring that first responders are well-prepared to handle emergencies efficiently, minimize casualties, and protect lives and property. As Lagos continues to grow as a mega-city, the importance of a structured, professional, and prompt emergency response system can not be overemphasized.

”These efforts align with the THEMES Plus agenda of Mr. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing continuous capacity-building alongside technological advancements.”

Earlier, Managing Director of Leapsoft Limited, Abiodun Adeoye highlighted that the training was structured to equip responders with internationally recognized best practices, enabling them to handle diverse emergencies efficiently.

”Through this training, participants will gain hands-on experience, knowledge of global best practices, inter-agency collaboration, and technological advancements in emergency management. This initiative will further solidify Lagos State’s reputation as a leader in disaster preparedness and emergency response in Nigeria, he said”.

The event brought together key emergency response agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Red Cross Society, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Ambulance Service, LASAMBUS, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA.

BREAKING: Ogun Police Command Declares Singer Portable Wanted Over Violent Attack on Officials

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blacktalker
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The Ogun State Police Command has officially declared popular Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, wanted following a violent assault on government officials carrying out their lawful duties.

According to police reports, the incident occurred on February 5, 2025, at approximately 10:00 AM, when officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ota Zonal Office—identified as TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef, and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi—were conducting an enforcement exercise in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota.

During the operation, the officials requested an approved building plan from an elderly man at Odogwu Bar, later identified as Portable’s father. However, shortly after, Portable allegedly arrived at the scene with a firearm and a gang of nine men, launching a violent attack on the government workers. The unarmed officials sustained injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the authorities.

Following investigations, nine of Portable’s alleged accomplices were arrested, but the singer fled and has remained in hiding. The police revealed that multiple invitations were sent to him, requesting his presence at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, but he deliberately ignored them without legal representation.

With Portable continuously evading arrest, the Ogun State Police Command has obtained a court order declaring him wanted.

The police have urged members of the public to provide any information that could lead to Portable’s immediate arrest. Authorities have also warned that anyone found aiding or harboring the fugitive will face legal consequences.

For any relevant information, the public is advised to report to the nearest police station or contact the Ogun State Police Command through its official channels.

Lagos State Government Holds Talks with San Francisco to Boost Tourism, Creative Industry

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In a strategic move to enhance Lagos’ creative and tourism sectors, a high-level delegation from the Lagos State Government has engaged in discussions with the Mayor of San Francisco and the leadership of Empire Africa. The meeting focused on fostering international collaboration, leveraging technology, and driving innovation in the entertainment and tourism industries.  

Leading the Lagos delegation was the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, accompanied by her counterparts from the Ministries of Innovation, Science, and Technology, as well as Transportation. The discussions centered on harnessing technology to transform Lagos’ creative sector while improving infrastructure to support sustainable growth.  

During the engagement, Benson-Awoyinka reaffirmed Lagos’ status as Africa’s entertainment capital and reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for artists, creatives, and tech-driven solutions that would enhance the music and tourism ecosystems.  

She explained that San Francisco, known globally as a hub for technology and innovation, presents an opportunity for Lagos to gain insights into cutting-edge advancements that could redefine its entertainment industry.

The meeting explored how Lagos could benefit from Empire Africa’s vast experience in the music sector, particularly in expanding distribution networks, empowering local artists, and integrating emerging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence into entertainment.  

Additionally, discussions with the Lagos Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi emphasized the need for improved mobility and logistics to facilitate seamless movement within the creative and tourism spaces.

He noted that this discussion would ensure better connectivity for major events, festivals, and cultural showcases that attract both local and international visitors.  

The partnership aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of positioning Lagos as a global tourism and entertainment destination while embracing technology as a driver of economic growth.  

WAEC Releases Results for 2024 WASSCE for Private Candidates

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WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has announced the release of results for the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE for Private Candidates – Second Series.

WAEC said a total of 65,023 candidates sat for the examination, which was conducted in both paper-based and computer-based hybrid modes across 5,067 centres nationwide.

In a statement by the acting Head of its Public Affairs, Moyosola F. Adesina, anipr, WAEC notes that the examination took place between October 25 and December 20, 2024, with the marking of scripts completed in February 2025 by 3,327 examiners at five designated marking venues in Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Enugu, and Kaduna.

According to WAEC, 62,354 candidates (95.9%) have had their results fully processed and released, while 2,669 candidates (4.1%) have some of their subjects still being processed due to errors attributed to them.

Out of the 65,023 candidates, 43,923 (67.55%) obtained credit and above in at least five subjects, while 34,878 (53.64%) secured credit and above in five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

This marks a 9.35% improvement compared to the 2023 results. In terms of gender distribution, 16,886 male candidates (48.41%) and 17,992 female candidates (51.58%) achieved the required credits in English and Mathematics.

WAEC says 2,577 candidates’ results (3.96%) have been withheld due to various forms of examination malpractice. Affected candidates are advised to visit the WAEC Notice of Examination Malpractice Portal (https://waecinternational.org/complaints) to respond to allegations. Investigations will be conducted before final decisions are made.

The Council urges candidates to check their results online at www.waecdirect.org. Additionally, digital copies of certificates are available on the WAEC Digital Certificate platform (www.waec.org), while hard copies can be requested via the WAEC Certificate Request Portal (https://certrequest.waec.ng/).

WAEC expresses appreciation to government agencies, security personnel, ministries of education, supervisors, invigilators, examiners, and all personnel involved in ensuring a smooth examination process.

The Council reaffirms its commitment to excellence and service delivery, encouraging successful candidates to pursue their academic and career aspirations with determination.

Global Leaders to Convene in Lagos for West Africa’s Largest Industrialisation Event

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The West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing and Trade (West Africa-IMT) Summit and Exhibition is set to take place from May 27–29, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.

The event aims to accelerate West Africa’s industrial development by bringing together key decision-makers to collaborate on strategies for a sustainable and intra-African industrial revolution.

This is coming following the growing urgency to shift from raw commodity exports to value-added production that could increase returns by over tenfold. Africa currently contributes only 3% to the global GDP and 2% to the world’s manufacturing value add (UNIDO 2024).

Under the theme “Accelerating West Africa’s Sustainable Industrial Revolution for Economic Prosperity,” the summit will convene global market leaders to explore partnerships, technological advancements, and investment opportunities in the region’s industrial sector.

With a focus on leveraging Africa’s vast natural resources, skilled workforce, and growing consumer market, discussions will centre on the adoption of clean energy systems, green industrialization, and policy reforms to foster economic growth.

Governments across West Africa have identified industrialization as a top priority, recognizing its potential to unlock economic prosperity. Despite challenges such as climate change, geopolitical instability, and political uncertainties, the region remains well-positioned for rapid industrial growth with its abundant natural resources, renewable energy potential, and cost-competitive labor force.

According to the Country Director, Nigeria & Portfolio Director, Africa, dmg events, Wemimo Oyelana:

“The West Africa IMT Summit and Exhibition is a landmark initiative dedicated to unlocking the region’s full industrial potential. By fostering critical discourse, driving business development efforts, and facilitating collaborations, the event will play a pivotal role in supporting governments and private sector stakeholders in spearheading a sustainable industrial revolution.”

The three-day summit is expected to bring together 2,500 attendees from over 25 countries, making it one of the largest industrialization events in West Africa.

Participants at the event should expect a large-scale exhibition showcasing international and regional players in manufacturing, energy, finance, technology, logistics, raw materials, and security.

Other highlights will be strategic leadership dialogues, investment roundtables, and CPD-accredited technical workshops to devise solutions for barriers inhibiting industrial growth. Networking and deal-making opportunities to encourage collaboration between governments, private sector leaders, and international investors among others.

About dmg Nigeria events

dmg Nigeria events is a subsidiary of dmg events. dmg events is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT) an international portfolio of information, media, and events businesses.

DMGT manages a diverse, multinational portfolio of companies, with total revenues of around £1 billion, that provide businesses and consumers with compelling information, analysis, insight, events, news, and entertainment. Its venture capital business, dmg ventures, holds minority stakes in early-stage businesses and focuses particularly on disruptive consumer media propositions.

Headquartered in Dubai, UAE since 1989 with offices in Canada, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand and the UK. dmg events is an international exhibition, conference, and intelligence company, attracting more than 1,000,000 attendees to a portfolio of over 80 events each year.

This global portfolio works closely with key stakeholders across the industry to facilitate pragmatic dialogue, serving as a platform for the latest discussions at the forefront of change.

For more information on dmg events, visit:  https://www.dmgevents.com/

APWEN Lagos Champions Women in STEM at 2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science Celebration

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The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN Lagos Chapter has commemorated the 2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a call for young girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, STEM.

Chairman of APWEN Lagos, Engr. Dr. Atinuke Wurola Owolabi, FNSE, FNIEEE, made the call at an event held at the Lagos State University (LASU), Epe Campus with the theme: “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science”.

Engr. Dr. Owolabi, FNSE, FNIEEE, emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of young girls in STEM fields while reiterating the association’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation among female engineers and scientists.

“STEM is the driving force of progress and national development. For our society to thrive, women and girls must not only participate but lead and trailblaze in these fields,” she stated.

The APWEN Chairman also encouraged them to embrace STEM opportunities with confidence and determination.

“Your voice matters in science. Your dreams are valid. Your potential is limitless. The world needs more women in STEM, and that includes YOU.”

The Head of Campus, Prof. Elkanah Olaosebikan-Oyetunji, expressed excitement over APWEN’s efforts and the positive impact of its projects in the school. He commended the installation of solar-powered lights in LASU Epe campus by APWEN which he said made it possible for students to charge their devices and study at night.

“This is one of the most impactful projects we have seen on this campus. The solar-powered lights are still functioning and have greatly improved the learning experiences of our students,” he said.

Prof. Olaosebikan-Oyetunji also praised APWEN for mentoring secondary school students, stating that early exposure to STEM careers would help them make informed decisions about their future.

“Girls, the future is bright for you. Make use of every opportunity to learn, grow, and excel so that you will become great professionals in the future,” he said.

The event was attended by figures and stakeholders in the engineering and education sectors such as the 1st Bashorun of Epeland, Engr. Adeniyi Kemi Ogunsanya, FNSE, Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, LASU, Engr. Dr. Mary Adedoyin, FNIEEE, former Special Adviser on Works and Infrastructure to the Lagos State Government, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, FNSE, and former Commissioner of Education, Lagos State, and Federal Commissioner, National Population Commission, Mrs. Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye.

The event concluded on a high note, with renewed commitments from APWEN Lagos and its partners to continue empowering, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation of female engineers and scientists.

About APWEN Lagos

APWEN Lagos is a chapter of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, dedicated to promoting the advancement of women in engineering and STEM fields through mentorship, advocacy, and educational programmes.

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