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DECEMBERISSAVYBE: FIRSTBANK SPONSORS ‘THE CAVEMEN CONCERT’, THRILLS AUDIENCE

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December is a particularly vibrant and deeply meaningful month in Nigeria, imbued with a palpable sense of excitement and celebration that permeates the air. As daily life slows down, this festive season offers a welcome opportunity for relaxation and togetherness. Families and friends gather to create cherished memories, participating in a rich tapestry of cultural activities that showcase Nigeria’s diverse heritage.

The month is characterized by a colourful array of events, including theatrical plays, musical concerts, traditional festivals, operas, fashion shows, poetry readings, and various forms of performance arts, all reflecting the dynamic cultural expressions of Nigerian society.

As December unfolds, the excitement continues to build, with streets and homes becoming vibrant displays of holiday spirit. Elaborate decorations adorn every corner, featuring colourful Christmas ornaments, twinkling lights, and festive paraphernalia that evoke a sense of wonder and joy. Evening skies light up with breathtaking fireworks, illuminating the night and further enhancing the joyous mood of the season.

Year-end Thanksgiving parties have become commonplace, offering spaces for loved ones to gather, share meals, and express gratitude for the blessings and experiences of the past year. This period also allows Nigerians to reconnect with family and friends, many of whom travel from various parts of the globe to partake in these significant celebrations.

As the year-end festivities for 2024 draw near, FirstBank has thoughtfully curated an exhilarating lineup of events under the DecemberIssaVybe programme, aimed at enhancing the enjoyment of this festive season. A highlight of this initiative is the much-anticipated concert featuring The Cavemen, a celebrated musical duo. Which was held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Muri Okunola Park, located along the bustling Lekki-Epe Expressway, the event brought Lagos to life with a captivating performance that seamlessly blends highlife, soul, and folk music. Attendees enjoyed an engaging experience filled with mesmerizing sounds for over an hour, keeping them on their feet and immersed in the rhythm.

The atmosphere at the concert was electrifying, drawing a diverse crowd of enthusiastic youth eager to experience The Cavemen’s unique interpretation of highlife music—a genre deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and characterized by its rich, rhythmic beats and soulful melodies.

The concert also featured an impressive lineup of other notable artists, such as the popular act Ckay, who collectively contributed to a night filled with remarkable entertainment and unforgettable performances.

The stage witnessed a pulsation of energy as The Cavemen’s talented band propelled the evening forward, delivering an infectious performance marked by masterfully executed guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and enchanting vocals. Audiences found themselves wholly absorbed in the moment, as the music unites them in joy and celebration, showcasing the revitalization and redefinition of the highlife genre that The Cavemen have pioneered.

In addition to the music, the concert artfully integrates comedic performances, highlighting the vibrant and diverse creative entertainment scene in Africa. Acclaimed comedians took to the stage, drawing laughter and delight from the crowd, while emerging music also had their moment in the spotlight, receiving enthusiastic applause and encouragement from an appreciative audience.

Recognising the profound impact of December in nurturing relationships and spreading joy, FirstBank has actively engaged its First@arts initiative to launch the annual DecemberIssaVybe campaign. This initiative is meticulously crafted to inspire and empower individuals across Nigeria to create and experience exhilarating moments throughout this joyous season.

By providing fully sponsored access to premium concerts, theatrical performances, shows, and festivals featuring some of the industry’s top entertainers, FirstBank aims to alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany festive celebrations.

In a time marked by economic uncertainty, FirstBank stands as a crucial support system for Nigerians wishing to celebrate without the weight of added financial stress. With a proud legacy spanning over 130 years, this esteemed financial institution has woven itself into the fabric of Nigerian life. FirstBank has long championed numerous festive concerts showcasing Africa’s music icons, including Kizz Daniel, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, and Tiwa Savage, crafting unforgettable experiences for music aficionados across the nation.

The DecemberIssaVybe campaign encapsulates the essence of creating lasting memories during this festive season. It serves as a dynamic platform for both local and international audiences to immerse themselves in unique, culturally rich experiences tailored to the holiday spirit. Since its inception in 2018, the FirstBankIssaVybe campaign has quickly become a highly anticipated annual event, delighting participants with exhilarating moments designed to resonate and linger long after the celebrations are over.

Olayinka Ijabiyi, the Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at FirstBank, emphasized the institution’s unwavering commitment to crafting a ‘Wow December to Remember’ experience for individuals of all ages.

He stated, “FirstBank is devoted to facilitating memorable homecoming experiences this December through gatherings such as weddings, family reunions, and festive celebrations, ensuring that every moment spent together is cherished.” Through this commitment, FirstBank continues to play a pivotal role in the celebration of culture and community during this significant time of year.

2025: The Year of Acquiring a Skill – Why Vocational Training is Key to Employment Success

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blacktalker
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By Toluwase Olaniyan

As we step into 2025, a critical message resonates louder than ever: acquiring practical, hands-on skills is no longer optional; it is an essential path to securing employment and achieving economic stability. In a world where industries are rapidly evolving and traditional job roles are being reshaped, vocational skilling offers a gateway to opportunity, especially for youth and underserved communities.

The reality of today’s global economy is that it rewards individuals who possess market-relevant skills. Across sectors—whether in technology, agriculture, manufacturing, or creative industries—the demand for skilled labor is soaring. Yet, many young people remain unemployed, not because opportunities don’t exist, but because of a mismatch between what employers need and the skills job seekers bring to the table.

Why Vocational Skills Matter

Vocational training focuses on equipping individuals with the technical and practical expertise needed for specific trades or professions. Unlike traditional academic pathways, vocational training is tailored to meet real-world demands. It empowers individuals to solve problems, create value, and deliver results in industries that form the backbone of our economy.

Take, for instance, the global construction industry. It consistently faces a shortage of skilled workers like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Similarly, the creative and digital sectors are in dire need of graphic designers, web developers, and content creators. Vocational training fills these gaps, turning raw talent into marketable expertise.

The Case for Nigeria and Beyond

For countries like Nigeria, vocational skilling is not just an economic necessity but a tool for national transformation. Nigeria boasts a vibrant youth population with immense potential, yet youth unemployment remains a significant challenge. By focusing on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), we can harness this demographic dividend to drive innovation, industrialization, and entrepreneurship.

Programs like Youthrive and Workskills, which I have had the privilege of being part of through EGO Foundation, are excellent examples of how vocational skilling can change lives. Through these initiatives, thousands of young Nigerians have gained access to training, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities, helping them build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to national development.

The Future of Work is Skills-Based

In 2025 and beyond, the global workforce will be increasingly shaped by skills, not degrees. Employers will prioritize individuals who can demonstrate competence and adaptability over those with just theoretical knowledge. This shift underscores the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to remain competitive in an ever-changing job market.

Furthermore, vocational training is not limited to entry-level jobs. Skilled professionals often enjoy higher job security, better earning potential, and opportunities for career advancement. Many successful entrepreneurs today started with vocational skills, from tailors and chefs to software developers and artisans.

A Call to Action

As we declare 2025 the year of acquiring a skill, let us commit to fostering a culture of vocational training and lifelong learning. Governments must prioritize investment in TVET infrastructure and curriculum development. Corporations should partner with training institutions to create apprenticeship opportunities and bridge the skills gap. And individuals must take ownership of their futures by exploring training opportunities in high-demand fields.

Finally, we must challenge the outdated perception that vocational training is a “second choice.” It is time to celebrate skills and the people who have them. A skilled workforce is not just the backbone of economic growth—it is the foundation of dignity, fulfillment, and shared prosperity.

As we embrace the opportunities that 2025 brings, let us remember: the future belongs to those who have the skills to build it.

About Toluwase Olaniyan

Toluwase Olaniyan is the Executive Director of EGO Foundation, a social impact organization committed to empowering individuals through entrepreneurship, technology, and vocational education.

HEI Becomes Sole Nigerian Organisation Recognised by Japanese Expo Association

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blacktalker
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The Health Emergency Initiative, HEI has earned a prestigious spot as the only Nigerian organisation and one of the four from Africa recognised by the Japanese International Exposition Association under the Best Practices Programme for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

The programme, which highlights impactful projects addressing global challenges, selected HEI’s initiative “Transform Care, Train Responders, Save Lives” for its potential to create lasting change. This recognition aligns with Expo 2025’s theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”

Introduced at Expo 2010 in Shanghai, the Best Practices Programme evaluates projects based on their transformative potential, regional impact, and ability to contribute to a sustainable future.

HEI’s lifesaving initiative will be showcased at the Expo Pavilion, where a representative will highlight the organisation’s achievements on a global stage. The platform enhances HEI’s global visibility and credibility, whlie the recognition is expected to attract funding partnerships to scale HEI’s initiatives across Africa.

HEI expressed gratitude to the Ashoka African Network and its Diaspora team for their nomination and support throughout the selection process.

“This milestone strengthens our resolve to transform emergency response systems and save lives,” the organisation said in a statement on its website.

DECEMBERISSAVYBE: FIRSTBANK SPONSORS ‘OUR DUKE HAS GONE MAD AGAIN STAGE PLAY’

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blacktalker
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First Bank of Nigeria Limited proudly sponsored a remarkable stage play titled ‘Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again: A Biting Satire.’ This captivating performance was masterfully directed by the acclaimed Joseph Edgar, widely recognised as The Duke of Shomolu. The play received high praise for its creative ingenuity and sharp satirical brilliance, effectively delivering a meaningful message to its audience.

The much-anticipated performance took place on December 23, 2023, at the prestigious Shell Hall, MUSON Centre in Lagos. This staging was an integral part of the vibrant activities associated with the 2024 edition of FirstBank’s annual Initiative, ‘DecemberIssaVybe,’ which aims to support and promote the thriving arts and entertainment sector in Nigeria.

Written and produced by the versatile Joseph Edgar, who is also a distinguished playwright and journalist, ‘Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again’ is a profound satire that conveys a compelling message through clever satirical elements and well-crafted characters. Edgar describes the play as a compilation of his earlier writings that appeared in ThisDay newspaper, along with his reflections shared on various platforms, including WhatsApp.

This particular production marked the fourth outing of the play, with previous adaptations being celebrated and well-received. One standout performance featured the talented actress Chantal, who humorously chastised Edgar in a memorable scene, referring to him as a “self-centered Ibibio man,” eliciting laughter from the audience. Another crowd favourite was a scene set in a white garment church, directed by the iconic Segun Adefila. This lively depiction showcased the vibrant energy and joyful movements of the beautiful women attending such congregations, further engaging the audience with their energetic performances. Additionally, the play prominently featured a scene centered around the controversial journalist and TV host Rufai Oseni, thoughtfully reflecting current societal debates and media dynamics.

A significant portion of the production was dedicated to a heartfelt tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, a revered banker and former chairman of Access Holdings, known for his bold business strategies and calculated risk-taking. Edgar, drawing from his personal experiences with Wigwe, portrayed the late banker as an inspiring figure who achieved prominence through sheer determination and hard work. The narrative expressed a profound sense of loss felt by many following Wigwe’s untimely passing, resonating deeply with the audience.

The storyline of ‘Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again’ is a vibrant and dynamic fusion of dance, music, traditional aesthetics, and visual spectacle, seamlessly blending comedic and tragic elements. In addition to honoring Herbert Wigwe, Edgar also paid homage to other notable figures, such as Mrs. Umo Eno, the recently deceased First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, and the iconic singer Onyeka Onwenu, showcasing the play’s deep connections to the fabric of Nigerian society.

The themes explored within the play span a broad spectrum of human experience, including pain, love, joy, relationships, and the myriad challenges faced by society. It poignantly reflects the complexities of Nigerian life and culture, utilizing elements from Edgar’s finest writings to resonate with the audience on multiple levels. Furthermore, the production served as a platform to commemorate several Nigerians who have recently passed away, intertwining personal narratives with collective grief and memory, thus adding another layer of depth to the performance.

Crafted with a rich, emotional plot, ‘Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again’ is an exhilarating theatrical spectacle that effortlessly integrates various aspects of Nigerian culture, music, folklore, and languages. While rooted in satire, the core narrative resonates with contemporary societal realities, making the production both entertaining and deeply thought-provoking.

Olayinka Ijabiyi, the Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at FirstBank, expressed the bank’s unwavering commitment to providing a memorable December experience for all generations. He remarked, “FirstBank is dedicated to facilitating unforgettable homecoming experiences this December for gatherings such as weddings, family reunions, and festive celebrations. Our collaboration with the Duke of Shomolu on this play signifies our dedication to promoting the creative industry through the arts and stage plays, aligning perfectly with our vision as an organization that cherishes Nigeria’s artistic landscape.”

Ijabiyi further highlighted FirstBank’s rich 130-year legacy of supporting the arts through its First@arts initiative. He encouraged Nigerians to embrace the diverse entertainment offerings presented throughout DecemberIssaVybe. He assured people that FirstBank is steadfast in its mission to create memorable experiences while considering the overall well-being of its customers.

The FirstBank DecemberIssaVybe is celebrated each year to enhance the arts and entertainment sectors in Nigeria. Throughout December, the bank hosts multiple opportunities and platforms that provide a memorable Homecoming Experience for Nigerians, welcoming both local and international guests. It is designed to provide access to premium live performances featuring beloved artists and engaging concerts that embody the spirit of joy and celebration, ultimately creating lasting memories for all attendees.

55th Convocation Ceremonies: UNILAG Announces Temporary Closure of Senate Car Park, Set To Hold Press Conference

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blacktalker
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The University of Lagos, UNILAG has announced arrangements for its 55th Convocation Ceremonies, scheduled to take place from Monday, January 13, to Thursday, January 16, 2025.

The ceremonies will include the convocation lecture, and the congregation for the award of certificates, diplomas, first degrees, postgraduate diplomas, master’s, executive master’s, and doctoral degrees. Also, the event will feature the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees, the award of the Professor Emeritus title, and the Gold Medalist Award.

In light of the ceremonies, the Senate Car Park will be restricted from public use from January 13 to January 16, 2025. The university has urged members of staff and the public to make use of designated car parks during this period. Furthermore, UNILAG has emphasized that no convocation parties or canopies will be allowed on campus.

Ahead of the convocation, a Pre-Convocation Press Conference is scheduled for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Senate Chamber, 2nd Floor, Senate House, UNILAG Akoka.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, OON, FAS, will address the press. Guests are advised to arrive early, as seating begins at 9:45 a.m.

Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd. Extends Warm Yuletide Greetings to Customers, Reinforces Importance of Adequate Protein in Diets

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blacktalker
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Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd., a leading agribusiness company in Nigeria, has extended heartfelt felicitations to its esteemed customers, partners, and stakeholders during this festive season.

Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, the company’s Group Managing Director, took the opportunity to reflect on the significance of the Christmas season, urging all to embrace the true values of Christianity. He emphasized the qualities of love, kindness, and peace embodied in the birth of Jesus Christ, which are vital in creating a better and more harmonious nation.

“In the spirit of the season, Christmas is not only a time for celebration but also a time for reflection on the teachings of Christ. As we celebrate this Yuletide, let us remember the values of love, generosity, and peace that can help make our nation a better place,” said Dr. Oduntan.

He also highlighted the crucial role of adequate nutrition, particularly protein, in ensuring the well-being of individuals, especially children. Dr. Oduntan noted that Nigeria has the second-highest burden of stunted children globally, with a national prevalence rate of 32% among children under five years old. An estimated 2 million children in Nigeria suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), which significantly hampers their growth and development.

“Protein plays an essential role in the diet, especially for children under the age of five,” Dr. Oduntan added. “I call on government agencies, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders to work together, especially during this season, to ensure that every Nigerian has access to adequate protein intake.”

Dr. Oduntan highlighted how Amo Farm’s subsidiary, natnudO Foods, is contributing to the nation’s food security by providing high-quality animal protein. He also shared how the company’s agro-innovation, the Noiler Bird, is transforming lives in rural areas by offering a sustainable source of protein. “Noilers provide affordable and nutritious meat and eggs for families in rural communities, thereby enhancing both their nutrition and economic well-being,” he stated.

He further stated that in response to rising food costs in urban areas and taking a cue from the use of Noiler birds in rural communities to bolster protein intake, Amo Farm recently launched the Noiler City Initiative, aimed at providing affordable access to fresh eggs and meat for city dwellers.

Reflecting on the past year, Dr. Oduntan expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Amo Farm’s customers, partners, and stakeholders, whose trust has been instrumental in the company’s achievements. “As we look forward to the coming year, we reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier, more prosperous Nigeria through improved nutrition and sustainable agricultural practices,” he stated.

Mrs. Itoro Awala-Ale, the company’s Business Development Manager, also shared her thoughts, noting, “As we mark this special season, let us remember to nourish our bodies with the protein that supports our health and vitality. Amo Farm, through its subsidiaries, is committed to ensuring you and your loved ones are well-nourished throughout the season and beyond.”

In the spirit of the season, Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd. wishes its customers, partners, and stakeholders a joyful and prosperous New Year, filled with health, happiness, and continued success. The company looks forward to contributing further to the nation’s food security and the growth of a healthy agricultural sector in the year ahead.

Japan Tobacco International Nigeria Felicitates with Nigerians at Yuletide

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blacktalker
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Japan Tobacco International Nigeria (JTI), has felicitated with staff and stakeholders on this year’s Christmas Day, wishing them a happy and peaceful celebration.

As the year draws to a close, the Company’s General Manager, Mr. Thomas Adams, said JTI Nigeria recognizes its staff and stakeholders’ incredible support and expresses that this season is a period of joy, reflection, and gratitude, adding “We want to wish all our stakeholders a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year”.

He expresses the hope that the new year will bring better economic impact and development to the country, noting that as a company, “our commitment to the economic well-being of Nigeria is unwavering. We believe in Nigeria and will continue to align with the drive for its economic prosperity.”

The company, which is a member of JTI Group with operations in over 130 countries across the world, is currently the second-largest tobacco company by volume in Nigeria and a major contributor to government revenue through various taxes to all tiers of government.

JTI, the parent company, operates at the forefront of the tobacco industry and is a leading tobacco and vaping company headquartered in Geneva Switzerland. JTI has been recognized as a Top Global Employer for 10 consecutive years including regional certifications in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America and the Middle East.

Lagos State University Staff Unions Suspend Indefinite Strike Action

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Comrade Obafemi Sanni, Chairman NASU-LASU, Comrade Seyi Lawal Chairman SSANU-LASU, Prof. Ibrahim Bakare Chairman ASUU-LASU, Dr. Olujimi Adejo Chairman NAAT-LASU.

The Joint Action Committee, JAC of all Staff Unions at Lagos State University, LASU has announced the suspension of its indefinite strike, effective from Monday, December 23, 2024.

The decision was reached during an emergency congressional meeting held at the MBA Auditorium, LASU, Ojo, and confirmed in a press release signed by the leadership of the unions representing ASUU, SSANU, NAAT, and NASU.

The strike which began on December 6, 2024, was called off to restore normalcy to the university and allow continued dialogue between the unions, the Lagos State Government, the LASU Governing Council, and the university management.

The unions revealed that two out of their three primary demands have been addressed through collective bargaining with the government and university authorities. They expressed optimism that further negotiations would resolve the remaining issues.

JAC extended its profound appreciation to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for his intervention and efforts in meeting some of their demands, describing his actions as pivotal in setting the stage for a peaceful resolution to the industrial action.

The unions also thanked their members for their solidarity throughout the strike, highlighting their commitment to improving the working conditions and welfare of LASU staff.

”As the strike is suspended, academic and administrative activities at Lagos State University are expected to resume immediately. However, the unions pledge to continue engaging with the government to ensure the full resolution of our demands, while our commitment to the welfare of staff remains unwavering.”

UNILAG Lecturer, Dr. Olunifesi Suraj Inaugurates African Chapter of UNESCO MILID University Network

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blacktalker
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Dr. Olunifesi Suraj, a distinguished Scholar of Strategic Communication and Disinformation and one of the foremost global thought leaders on Media, Information, and Digital Literacy in his capacity as the Co-Lead of the UNESCO Global Network of Universities, UNITWIN on Media and Information Literacy has inaugurated the African Chapter of the UNESCO MILID Universities Network on 9th December 2024.

The event which was hosted online attracted a lot of participants from African Universities in the different regions of Africa, the UNESCO Regional Offices including the headquarters office in Paris, the UNESCO National Commission Office, and other UN agencies.

In his concept note titled “The Africa We Want”, the highly referred University Don expressed in a no-ambiguity tone that it is high time Africa as a continent takes her destiny into her hand. The Don who is highly sought after regarding Media and Information Literacy believed that:

“it has become imperative that the African Chapter of the UNESCO MILID UNITWIN University Network be inaugurated to harness all the Media and Information Literacy initiatives within the continent to help address the challenges peculiar to African development.

The University Don stated, “The need to address regional and continental challenges while also collaborating with global partners to address common challenges justify the establishment of African chapter of the UNESCO MILID UNITWIN University Network as presently being conceived”.

Reiterating the words of Stefania Giannini, Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO, on the need to radically change course and shape alternative futures for Africa and humanity, Dr. Suraj said “The newly inaugurated African Chapter of the UNESCO-MILID University Network is posed to provide an Indigenous solution to solve African peculiar challenges by shaping alternative future for Africa”.

He believed that “the African chapter of the UNESCO MILID UNITWIN University will cultivate Media and Information Literacy initiatives in Africa and harvest it for the continent’s common needs and universal good.

The University Don, who emphatically stated the need for African Media Right Agenda as the Right to development during his presentation on the Declaration of Right to Development at the University of Dayton, Ohio, USA emphasized the collaborative nature of the African Chapter of the network: “By focusing on ‘Transforming Knowledge for Africa’s Future’, the newly inaugurated African Chapter intend to collaborate with policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and international partners to strengthen interdisciplinary research and collaboration across Africa while fostering mutually beneficial global partnerships”.

Collaborating with the words of Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Information and Communication on the ability of Media and Information Literacy to improve understanding of key topics for sustainable development, Dr. Olunifesi Suraj stated that: “The African Chapter of UNESCO UNITWIN UNESCO-MILID network intend to promote Media Information and Digital Literacy to address the challenges of the 21st century including Africa information integrity, the decline of trust in media and digital innovations notably Artificial Intelligence while addressing the African Stainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda”

According to Dr. Olunifesi Suraj, the African chapter of the UNESCO University network will help to harness all the African developmental initiatives by localizing the global solutions using a Media and Information literacy strategy.

In his words, “Having taken into consideration, the Operational Strategy for Priority Africa 2022-2029, the evaluation of the previous Strategy 2014-2021 conducted by the Internal Oversight Service, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 “The Africa We Want”, Kampala 2020 “MOULD” Action plan, the various activities of UNESCO Africa Group, programme sectors at Headquarters, field offices in Africa and the Bureau of Strategic Planning, the African Chapter of the UNESCO MILID University Network will work towards actualizing the Agenda 2063 renew the vision for “An integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens, representing a dynamic force in the international arena”.

The African chapter which is to be headed by Prof. Suraj (who equally doubles as the co-lead of the global UNESCO University Network on Media and Information Literacy), will have its headquarters in the University of Lagos, Nigeria while having its regional offices in other four regions of Africa.

Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue University Network (MILID) is an international university research network set up by UNESCO and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), with a deep commitment to promoting media and information literate societies on a global scale.

The UNESCO MILID Network was set up within the framework of the UNESCO University Twinning and Networking programme (UNITWIN), which serves as a platform for building the capacities of higher education and research, and for facilitating the integration between the academic world, civil society, local communities, research, and policy-making. Its broad areas of activities include Research, Education, and Participation.

Underpinning the Network is the need to give impetus to research that can inform policies on MIL and Intercultural Dialogue. The UNESC MILID Network seeks to ensure that the collective knowledge and expertise are not only shared but are also reflected in the elaboration of strategic projects at national, regional, and international levels.

OGUN STATE POLICE COMMAND ENHANCES SECURITY FOR SAFETY OF RESIDENTS DURING YULETIDE

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blacktalker
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The Ogun State Police Command has deployed its personnel and intelligence officers to ensure law and order during the Yuletide celebrations and beyond. This festive time typically heralds increased social interactions, busy hours, and the closing of businesses, which can attract criminal behavior.

The Police emphasize a zero-tolerance policy towards any criminal activity aimed at disrupting year-end festivities. Officers have been assigned strategically throughout Ogun State to ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens.

In efforts to bolster crime prevention, the Command has mobilized operatives well-versed in human rights, civility, and professionalism to various locations to detect and prevent crime while protecting lives and property. This proactive approach is designed to ease any fear of insecurity in our communities during the festive season.

Recognizing the potential for increased criminal activity during Christmas, the Ogun State Police Command has stepped up security measures, enhancing checkpoints and patrols across the state. Officers in uniform and plainclothes will be present to deter crime and reassure the public.

High-risk areas that have witnessed threats in the past such as Long Bridge, Rounder, Sapaade, Ogunmakin and others will be monitored by armored patrols.

Additionally, specialized units like SWAT, Anti-Cultism and Anti-Kidnapping will conduct regular patrols around educational institutions.

Key locations such as places of worship, parks, recreation centres, government buildings, banks, and homes of diplomats will benefit from significant police presence. The Command is working alongside other security agencies to provide a comprehensive security strategy aimed at ensuring peace and safety in Ogun State during this festive season.

The public is encouraged to cooperate with security agents and respect the personnel on duty, who are working hard to keep everyone safe. Adhering to these security protocols will greatly contribute to maintaining a safe environment during the holidays.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo PhD, will be actively overseeing operations and coordinating with Area Commanders to support officers, with a force of 7,777 police officers deployed across the state. The Operations Department is well-equipped to respond firmly to all threats.

”For any security concern, the public can contact the control room on the following numbers: 09062837609, 09120141706, 09159578888, or via our X handle @OgunPoliceNG @Embracepeacepro.

”We urge drivers to navigate safely and exercise patience at roadblocks, which are in place for the collective benefit of the community.

”CP Lanre Ogunlowo wishes the people of Ogun State a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year.”

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