Flowerbud News

Author: Salisu Sani-Idris

  • National Park Service acquired 3 forest reserves in 2024- CG

    National Park Service acquired 3 forest reserves in 2024- CG

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Nigeria National Park Service (NPS) says it has expanded its reach with the takeover of three forest reserves in 2024.
    Dr Ibrahim Goni, Conservator General (CG), in a statement on Monday said that the forest reserves had been converted to national parks .
    Goni named the new parks as Hadejia Wetlands, Oba-Hills and Marhai National Parks in Jigawa, Osun and Nasarawa states respectively.
    He said the achievements of the service in 2024 showed its commitment to conservation, protection and community engagement.
    “These achievements showcase the service’s efforts to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage and promote sustainable development,” he said.
    The CG said the service had enhanced its anti-poaching efforts through the deployment of high-tech equipment such as drones, SMARTS, Power-chute and GSM technology.
    According to him, this initiative had resulted in 621 arrests, with 466 prosecutions, 61 compoundments and 94 warnings issued.
    “This significant increase in arrests and prosecutions demonstrates the Service’s dedication and renewed effort to combating wildlife crime,” he said.
    Goni expressed excitement over partnerships with governmental, non-profit and international organisations which ,he said, had enhanced efforts of the service.
    Goni noted that a number of these partnerships had facilitated donations to the Service.
    He listed some of the partnering organisations as the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, United Nations Office on Drug Crime (UNODC), Sustainability and Conservation Education for Rural Areas (SCERA) and ACReSA.
    Goni said the organisations supported the Service with essential equipment, training and funding.
    He explained that the service prioritised training and capacity building in 2024,saying no fewer than 100 Park Rangers received tactical operations and counterterrorism training in collaboration with the Nigeria Army.
    “30 forest guards from the Federal Capital Territory Forestry Department were trained in forest resources conservation and protection by the Service,” he said.
    On research, Goni said a recent PhD research conducted in Cross River National Park showed that, “Low-intensity human activities such as foraging can significantly impact tree species assemblages in tropical forest, particularly for edible species, potentially leaving long-lasting footprints”.
    “This research highlights the complex interplay that environmental, spatial and human factors have in shaping tree species dissimilarity in the Nigeria-Cameroon forest regions.
    “Other researches in PhDs, MScs and BScs are ongoing in the fields at unit parks,” he said.
    The CG lauded the election of Assistant Conservator of Park (ACP) Mohammed Dikko Bala as Africa’s regional representative in the International Rangers Federation (IRF) executive, saying the feat demonstrated the Service’s growing international recognition.
    According to Goni, the service launched several conservation initiatives, including Nigeria’s first National Elephant Action Plan for 2024-2034 in collaboration with Elephant Protection Initiative.
    He said that 25 rescued African Grey Parrots from wildlife traders were released back into the wild in Cross River State and 161 hectares of degraded land were replanted and maintained across the National Parks under the Green Bond initiative.
    Goni said in spite these achievements, the service faced some challenges such as insecurity occasioned by banditry and terrorism.
    He said the service also had problems with inadequate anti-poaching patrol equipment such as vehicles, arms and ammunition, vulnerability of protected areas around the National Parks and more.
    To address these challenges, he said the service would work to review the National Park Service Act and Regulations as well as the management plan of all the National Parks and seek technical support and donor partnerships.
    He reiterated that the service remained committed to protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage and promoting sustainable development.

  • Lagos showcases acquatic endowment at boat regatta

    Lagos showcases acquatic endowment at boat regatta

    By Taiye Olayemi/Aderonke Ojediran

    The Lagos State Government, on Saturday, hosted its 2024 Boat Regatta in a spectacular celebration of the state’s rich and unique tourism and maritime heritage.
    The event, which began at the Five Cowries Creek through to the Wings on Victoria Island and six other locations, witnessed a grand procession led by a special fleet by the state Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
    With the theme: “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life”, the boat regatta was a treasure trove of colours, sounds, spirituality and excitement, with revellers across the five divisions of the state in attendance.

    The event highlighted the economic, cultural and spiritual significance of the coastal areas Lagos is known for.
    The event organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture had no fewer than 200 boats from indigenous communities of Lagos take revellers through a journey of cultural brilliance.
    The Badagry community’s Zangbeto masqueraders and the Epe community’s Gelede masqueraders excited revellers as they performed some spiritual procession on waterways.
    The revellers adorned their boats with vibrant colours and intricate designs, featuring symbols that represented their beliefs, spirituality and cultural identity.
    Sanwo-Olu, who declared the event open, described it as the biggest aquatic festival in Africa.
    Sanwo-Olu said that the boat regatta represented the Lagos envisioned by the government as a city of innovation, culture and boundless possibilities.
    He said it was a testament to his administration’s commitment to tourism and the creative economy as pivotal contributors to the social and economic growth of Lagos under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda.
    “This extraordinary event is not only a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Lagos but also a vibrant showcase of our city’s unique connection to water, an essential element of our identity and livelihood.
    “Through this festival, we illuminate the aquatic splendour that makes Lagos a premier destination for tourists and stakeholders from across the globe.
    “This regatta is a reflection of our resolve to embrace and promote our traditions while creatively harnessing the boundless opportunities within our maritime resources.
    “This vibrant display is complemented by private boat owners’ creative ingenuity, adding a modern twist to our celebration,” he said.
    Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, expressed excitement at the ability of the state to host the festival after lots of trial.
    Benson-Awoyinka commended Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the development of the state’s waterways and tourism infrastructure.
    She said that Sanwo-Olu’s efforts in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation were also commendable.
    “I am particularly thrilled that after several attempts to hold this spectacular event for some years, the event is finally holding today, making all efforts and resources committed into organising this boat regatta worthwhile.
    “This year’s theme, “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” underscores the integral role our waterways play in shaping our history and identity as Lagosians,” she said.
    The commissioner said that the regatta was not only showcase of the state’s vibrant traditions but also a testament to shared commitment to fostering tourism, cultural pride and unity.
    “Through the dazzling display of decorated boats, exhilarating traditional races and captivating water sports, we celebrate the boundless creativity and dynamism of our people.
    “Beyond its cultural significance, this event serves as a driver of economic growth by boosting tourism and creating opportunities for local businesses,” she said.
    The Oloja of Lagos, Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, commended Lagos State Government for reviving boat regatta, which he described as one of the age-long tourism practices in Lagos.
    Olojo-Kosoko said that boat regatta, known traditionally in Lagos as Oko-Aje or Okosi festival, was first held in 1967, during the era of late Mobolaji Johnson.
    He said that during the boat regatta, some of late King Kosoko’s war relics such as his cannon guns were displayed.
    “This is a beautiful display of our treasured cultural heritage. I know many people must have been entertained, but this is one of the attractions Lagos has to offer tourists.
    “I believe next year’s edition will be more memorable,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Copyright Society assures members of prompt payment of second palliative royalty

    Copyright Society assures members of prompt payment of second palliative royalty

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) has assured its members across the country of prompt payment of their second palliative royalty, approved by the society’s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), held recently.
    Its Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji, in a statement on Thursday, said that the palliative royalty was a token to members to further assist them to deal with the current economic hardship in the country.
    Okoroji said every member that was entitled to the palliative, as explained during the AGM, would receive their palliative in earnest.
    He noted that this was different from the N465.5million royalties distributed to COSON members earlier, on Dec. 10.
    He said “After the approval, the 2nd palliative royalty distribution commenced immediately at the AGM. Several members confirmed receiving their alerts while the meeting was still going on.
    “My information is that as of Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 4,083 members across the country have received their second palliative distribution. More should receive theirs before Christmas.”
    “COSON members are once again assured that they belong to an organisation that is 100 per cent transparent and accountable.
    “No COSON member will lose one Naira of money which he is entitled to. Any COSON member who has yet to receive his royalty is assured that his money is safe.”
    Okoroji explained that there were some COSON members who were yet to receive their money because they had given COSON faulty account details or had changed their bank accounts without notifying the society.
    According to him, there were also several members whose royalties were returned unpaid by the society’s bankers.
    “We have noticed that a significant amount of the returned royalties is with respect to members with accounts with one bank.
    “COSON is presently engaging the banks to find out the reason for this anomaly and to have the problem resolved.
    “We have published a list of the COSON members whose royalties were returned and we request that the affected members forward alternative account details by WhatsApp or SMS to a stated dedicated phone number so that a new payment can be initiated on their behalf, without delay,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Yuletide: Lagos govt, shodex, cinemas unveil fascinating programmes

    Yuletide: Lagos govt, shodex, cinemas unveil fascinating programmes

    By Taiye Olayemi

    As the Yuletide approaches, the Lagos State Government, cinemas and some other recreational centres in the state are set to excite residents with fascinating programmes for the season.

    In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the state would celebrate its aquatic heritage in grand style with the annual boat regatta on Dec. 21.

    Benson-Awoyinka said the event would hold at the Five Cowries Creek.

    “The event aims to excite revellers as well as promote the scenic beaches and the thriving hospitality sector around Lagos waters.

    “Participants from the five IBILE divisions of Lagos state will compete in various categories, with exciting prizes up for grabs.

    “Private boat owners will have the chance to display their creativity, adding a distinct Lagos flair to the event,” she said.

    Also, Mr Olusola Adekoya, Chief Executive Officer of Shodex Beautification Landmark Ltd., said that the recreational park would be entertaining children in a programme tagged “Kids Christmas Splash Fest”.

    Adekoya said this would begin from Dec. 20 through to the New Year.

    According to him, this is to ceate memorable and enjoyable experience for kids and their families.

    He said children would be exposed to thrilling activities like: cultural parade, swimming, painting competitions, dance, and building blocks.

    “We are doing this to encourage socialisation and interaction among children, foster creativity and self-expression through various activities.

    “Throughout the programme, the children will have access to different kinds of refreshments,” he said.

    Also, Ope Ajayi, National President, Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), assured big screen lovers of captivating and memorable cinematic experience during the Yuletide.

    “With recent movies released to the cinemas, big screen lovers can get themselves entertained.

    “We have “Thinline” by Mercy Aigbe, “Everyone Loves Jenifa” by Funke Akindele, “Seven Doors” by Femi Adebayo and “Alakada Bad and Boujee” by Toyin Abraham.

    “These are blockbuster films,” he said.

    Sunday Essien, Manager of the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, told NAN that the shrine would host a special musical concert tagged “Father, Son and Uncle” on Dec. 29.

    Essien said the event would feature Femi Kuti, his son, Made, and Seun Kuti.

  • Quilox partners NAFDAC to combat circulation of fake drinks

    Quilox partners NAFDAC to combat circulation of fake drinks

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Quilox Club in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Tuesday launched campaign against the circulation of fake drinks in night clubs.

    Mr Akinlabi Peller, the Chief Operating Officer of Quilox Club, during a news conference in Lagos, said the campaign was launched in commemoration of the club’s 11th anniversary.
    Peller noted that the management of Quilox came up with the campaign to sensitise local club owners on the need to desist from circulating fake drinks, considering its grievous repercussions.
    “Over the past 11 years, we have upheld the distribution of authentic drinks which are registered with NAFDAC, we purchase our drinks right from the production companies.
    “To ensure our effort is not sabotaged, we have our own serial number we paste on already purchased drinks for the club.
    ”And after consumption of those drinks, we dispose the bottles to ensure they are not reused by producers of fake drinks.
    “This is what we want other club owners to emulate so that we can successfully clamp down on distribution of fake drinks with NAFDAC,” he said.
    On the club’s 11th anniversary, Peller said there would host a 36-hour non-stop party in celebration of the milestone, starting from Dec. 22.
    “We are happy that Quilox is 11 years now, we have maintained the same name and venue over the years, we remain grateful to our supporters and fans,” he said.
    Shaba Mohammed, Director, Investigation and Enforcement, Lagos Directorate, NAFDAC, said that before any product could be introduced to the market, it must be registered with the agency.
    Mohammed, who was represented by Mr Kunle Ojo, Assistant Director, Water and Drink Division at NAFDAC, said that in December, no fewer than ten outlets had been locked for sales of fake drinks.
    He commended Quilox for adhering to NAFDAC’s warning against the circulation of counterfeit drinks over the years.
    He said: “NAFDAC is partnering with Quilox so that jointly we can fight this counterfeiters, so that our society will be free from all these counterfeit products.
    “NAFDAC has zero tolerance for unregistered products and fake products, we have a lot of sanctions against any club that we find any unregistered product, we usually seal those clubs.
    “NAFDAC cannot do it alone. It has to be collective effort, we have to come together and fight these menace, that is the reason we urge the public to always give us information whenever they observe any activity where fake items are produced.
    Also, Mr Olushola Farinloye, Managing Director of Quilox, noted that drinks procured by the club were usually acquired directly from the production company. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Group set to celebrate, unite families in Love

    Group set to celebrate, unite families in Love

    By Talatu Maiwada

    Archbishop Emmanuel Ekuri, Deputy Spokesman Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS) said the Organisation was set to celebrate and unite families in this season of love.

    Ekuri,Ade this known at a news conference in Yola, ahead of the 2024 celebration of the Divine Manifestation of His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu.

    Ekuri stated that the 2024 celebration of the sole spiritual head of the universe, Obu, was aimed at establishing God’s kingdom and fostering unity within the human family through love.

    “The Brotherhood of the Cross and Star is a universal divine institution that teaches and practices universal love, peace, unity, truth, and righteousness in the Holy Spirit.

    “Brotherhood means love, unity, and the oneness of God’s creation. It is not a political party, secret society, cult, or anything worldly,”Ekuri said.

    He emphasised that Obu has exemplified the true essence of Christianity by showing unparalleled love and compassion to humanity.

    According to him, “Obu has healed the broken-hearted, fed the hungry, clothed the needy, and wiped tears from the eyes of many.”

    He expressed concern about the current state of the world, saying;
    “Today, society is plagued by crime and brutality, and there is no peace in the world, even nature is at odds with humanity.

    “The only solution for mankind is to embrace BCS, which serves as the ideal instrument for regaining spiritual, moral, and social freedom as people created to serve God’s purpose,”he added.

    The spokesman said the event was scheduled to take place from Dec. 23 to Dec. 31 at the world headquarters of the BCS in Cross River State.

    He stated that the event would commence with the sixth edition of the Olumba Olumba Obu Public Lecture, themed “Dignity in Service to Humanity.”

    Other activities lined up for the event include; humanitarian outreach, Christmas service, prison visitations, singing competitions, the BCS Art and Merit Award, and the Holy Father’s New Year message, among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • Education, key to addressing societal challenges—Cleric

    Education, key to addressing societal challenges—Cleric

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The Chairman, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) League of Imams, Sheikh Tajudeen Adigun, says education is key to addressing a myriad of societal challenges.

    The cleric said this during the fifth Qur’anic graduation ceremony of the Nurul Yaqeen Islamic Foundation, held on Saturday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 24 graduands of the foundation completed the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, out of which 13 were females and 11 males.

    According to Adigun, no nation can develop without education, saying.”we must encourage our younger ones to learn Qur’an and western education combined so that they will develop Nigeria.”

    He also stressed the need for the faithful to hold firm to the knowledge of the Qur’an, which is the panacea to all the formidable challenges mankind faces.

    Adigun, who is also the Chief Imam of Fou’ad Lababidi Central Mosque, Abuja, who said that Islam encourages the seeking of knowledge in its entirety, added that Nigeria was in the dire need of more intellectuals.

    ” And that was why in my lecture emphasis was made on the importance of education. Islam education is key to any success of this life and in the hereafter.

    ” That is why the first verses revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) centred on the issue of education.

    ” And Allah said you cannot compare those who are ignorant with those who are knowledgeable,” Adigun said.

    Earlier, the Director of the foundation, Imam Yahya Al-Yolawi, expressed delight with the performance of 24 graduates, describing their graduation as ” a lifetime achievement for him.

    ” This is my ambition, this is what I have. Prophet Muhammad, PBUH, said you are the best among you who learns Qur’an.

    ” This is our life journey and we have been recording success since 2018 continuously. We have been graduating students and parents are appreciating our efforts.

    ” I think it is something that I will never forget. This is the fifth Qur’anic graduation, ” Al-Yolawi said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that the event was attended by parents, guardians and clerics from the six Area Councils of the FCT. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • NAHCON commits to hitch-free 2025 hajj operation

    NAHCON commits to hitch-free 2025 hajj operation

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it is committed to conducting a hitch-free 2025 Hajj operation.

    Its Executive Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, gave the assurance during a meeting with Chief Executives of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions, held on Wednesday at the Hajj House in Abuja.

    He also emphasised the commission’s dedication to overcome it’s challenges and reposition Hajj operation for greater efficiency.

    The chairman had outlined several challenges upon assuming office, including unresolved claims and operational bottlenecks which hindered progress of some essential activities.

    Usman, who assured the stakeholders of ongoing efforts to address challenges of Hajj operation, urged them put their heads together to solve the daunting challenges facing Hajj operation.

    He also emphasised the need for all the stakeholders to work as a formidable team to support Hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.

    Usman highlighted some of the contentious issues so far resolved, including the refund of 150 Saudi Riyals to each pilgrim for poorly rendered electricity services during the 2023 Hajj.

    He affirmed that his administration was working tirelessly to settle the two per cent service charges that was earmarked for the state pilgrims board in relation to the 2024 Hajj.

    The chairman also pledged to clear all outstanding legitimate claims in accordance with the law, with a view to laying a solid foundation for a new chapter in NAHCON’s operations.

    He called on the 36 states and the FCT Chief Executives to expedite remittances to the commission to ensure early preparations, including securing affordable and suitable accommodations for pilgrims at Madina, Makkah, and Muna.

    He revealed that the commission would embark on visits to the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria to engage with Governors, clerics and traditional rulers to garner support for the 2025 Hajj

    According to him, the first Pre- Hajj visit to Saudi Arabia will take place in January 2025, comprising a delegation of members from both NAHCON and Chief Executives of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards.

    He said that the delegation would attend Hajj preparation meetings, finalise agreements with service providers, and inspect arrangements in Jeddah.

    ” I came here with good intentions and a bag full of plans to change and reposition the commission for the better.

    ” Let us open a new page and make NAHCON and State Pilgrims Welfare Authorities exemplary institutions for the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims,” he said.

    Also, the Commissioner-in-Charge of Operations, Mr Anofi Elegushi, provided updates on the 2025 Hajj calendar.

    He distributed a 51-page guiding document from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to streamline operations.

    The commissioner advised the stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the guidelines and strictly adhere to the operational timelines. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Education, key to changing Nigeria, says NTI D-G

    Education, key to changing Nigeria, says NTI D-G

    Prof. Sadiya Sani-Daura, Director-General, National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), Kaduna, says education is key to changing and transforming Nigeria in all ramifications.

    She spoke on Wednesday in Kaduna while declaring open nationwide training workshops for 222 basic school teachers drawn from across Nigeria.

    The five-day training is also focusing on E-learning, climate literacy and green life skills.

    The training is taking place simultaneously in Kaduna and Lagos, with the participants drawn from the 26 states and FCT.

    It has as its theme, ‘Digital Pedagogy, Remote Learning, E-Learning, Climate Literacy and Green Life Skills.’

    The training was organised by the Institute in collaboration with the Universal Basic Commission (UBEC).

    She said, “With the right attention given to the education sector, a lot of the negative narratives in Nigeria will change for the better.

    ” A lot of things went wrong hitherto because education was not getting the desired attention.

    “With education getting the desired attention, everything will change, including combating criminality.

    “It is however gladdening that the present administration of President Bola Tinubu is unwaveringly committed to redressing the obnoxious situation.”

    The director-general further reiterated the unwavering commitment and dedication of the Institute to teacher training and development.

    According to her, NTI will remain steadfast in making the Nigerian teachers globally competitive,hence helping to restore the lost global glory of the nation.

    Sani-Daura, said they represent a milestone in the collective effort to advance teacher education and strengthen the foundations of basic education in the country.

    She said that NTI, in collaboration with UBEC has consistently championed innovative strategies to equip the teachers with the skills and knowledge required to address the evolving demands of modern education.

    Sani-Daura said, “Today’s workshops reflect this commitment, providing an avenue for professional development that aligns with global best practices and national priorities.

    “The first focus area, which is digital pedagogy, remote teaching and e-learning, comes at a time when technology has become an integral part of the teaching and learning process.

    “Teachers must be empowered with the tools and skills to harness the potential of digital platforms to enhance instruction, engage learners and foster critical thinking.

    “This training is expected to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and the emerging trends in education technology as well as prepare the teachers to thrive in the digital age.”

    On climate literacy and green life skills, the director-general decried that the world was grappling with the effects of climate change, saying, “our responsibility as educators goes beyond academics.

    “Teachers play a critical role in shaping attitudes and behaviours that promote environmental sustainability.

    In a welcome address, Dr Bature Salisu, Special Technical Assistant to the director-general, said that the collaboration between NTI and UBEC underscored the shared vision and partnership to advance teacher education.

    He said, “This initiative is a testament to the NTI’s unwavering commitment in enhancing the professional capacity of teachers and addressing contemporary educational challenges.”

    According to Salisu, the training reflects a collective resolve to equip teachers with innovative teaching methodologies and critical life skills to prepare students for the demands of the 21st century.

    The acting Registrar of the Institute, Mrs Zainab Aliyu, described the theme as apt and timely.

    She stressed that Nigerian teachers must not lag behind, urging them to be creative using technology.

    The teachers attending the workshop at Kaduna were drawn from all the Northern states and FCT while the participants at the Lagos centre were drawn from all the Southern states.