Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • Athena Centre appoints Uzor Ngoladi as Senior Fellow

    Athena Centre appoints Uzor Ngoladi as Senior Fellow

    By Flowerbud News

    The Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership has announced the appointment of Dr. Uzor Ngoladi as Senior Fellow and Head of Research and Publications on Education and Health. Dr. Ngoladi who officially assumed office on January 6, 2025, brings to the think tank his wealth of expertise in policy research, education, and leadership.

    With a distinguished professional background in media and academics, Dr. Ngoladi has dedicated over two decades to advancing research, policy development, and impactful initiatives in the education and health sectors. He holds a doctorate in Educational Psychology and has been recognized for his contributions to evidence-based policy formulation and implementation across Nigeria and beyond.

    In his new role at the Athena Centre, Dr. Ngoladi will spearhead the organization’s research agenda, focusing on innovative and sustainable solutions to the pressing challenges in education and health. He will also oversee the publication of groundbreaking studies and reports that aim to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.

    “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Uzor Ngoladi to our team,” said Mrs June Udogu, Manager, Talent and Strategy of the Athena Center. “Dr. Ngoladi joins our Research and Publication Department, where he will lead all research and publication initiatives in the areas of Education and Health. With his vast experience in research and publications, we are confident that he will be a valuable asset to our team.

    Dr. Ngoladi brings a wealth of academic and professional expertise to our organization. He holds a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Lagos (2018), a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Port Harcourt (2008), and a Bachelor’s degree in Education English from Imo State University (2001). Additionally, he has a certificate in Entrepreneurial Management from Pan Atlantic University, Lagos.”

    A prolific author, Dr. Ngoladi has published several books which include: #EndSARS: War Against Impunity, Correlates of Climate Change and Ecological Psychology, Impact of Human Behaviour on Flood Disasters in Nigeria, Inside Kalakuta & Within Afrobeat, Toxic Eucharist,Who Owns Nigeria, MOU: A Story of Legal and Human Rights Activism etc.

    “It is my honour and privilege to join the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership,” said Dr. Ngoladi. “This role represents a unique opportunity to collaborate with dedicated professionals and contribute to the transformation of education and health systems in Nigeria and beyond. I look forward to advancing research that not only informs policy but also drives actionable and meaningful change.”

    The Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, based in Abuja, Nigeria, is a non-profit organization deeply committed to enhancing public policy and leadership across Nigeria and the broader African Continent. The center seeks to deliver impactful research and create cutting-edge training programs that shape the future of governance and nurture the next generation of leaders.
    www.athenacenter.org

  • Mega Empowerment, Junilation in Okigwe As Sen. Ndubueze Holds Constituency Briefing

    Mega Empowerment, Junilation in Okigwe As Sen. Ndubueze Holds Constituency Briefing

    By Flowerbud News

    It was a season of jubilation and enjoyment of devidends of democracy in Okigwe Senatorial District of Imo State as Distinguished Senator Ndubueze Patrick C. rolled out amazing empowerment packages to the people as part of his End of .Year Constituency Briefing.

    The event took place on 31st December, 2024 at the Okigwe Township Stadium with
    unprecedented distribution of good numbers of Buses, Tricycles (Keke), motorcycles, Grinding machine , Sewing machine, Laptops, Generators, Refrigerators, Industrial Frying Pan.

    The ceremony was Chaired by Prof Maurice Iwu, Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and attended by the Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodinma as Special Guest of Honour alongside his amiable wife Other dignitaries included the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, some Members of the Federal House of Pepresentatives from the State, the Secretary to the State Government, and notable Traditional Rulers.

    A cross session of the beneficiaries inteviwed posited that the Zone had never had it that good and have witnessed remarkable difference since the emergence of Sen. Ndubueze as Senator representing them at the Red Chambers.

    Sen. Ndubueze, addressing the gathering, expressed his profound gratitude to the People for confidence reposed in him, assuring them of better days ahead, and promising not to relent in his determination to giving Okigwe strong voice at the National Assembly, while attracting remarkable Federal Government Projects and presence.

    In his remark, the Chairman of Occasion, Prof. Maurice Iwu, lauded the efforts of Sen. Ndubueze Patrick, desxribing him as a passion leader of the People and selfless ambassador of of Okigwe, while urging him to remain steadfast in ensuring that Okigwe gets its due share of dividends of Democracy from the Federal Government.

    Gov. Hope Uzodinma, în his Keynote Speech, scored the Senator very hign in performance, calling him a true son of the State and expressing confidence that the people will reciprocate by returning Sen. Ndubueze during next Election. The Governor further reaffirmed his commitment to ensure Okigwe is given deserved placed in his Administration’s programme and projects.

  • Adeleke inaugurates Parakin-Obalufe road in Ile-Ife

    Adeleke inaugurates Parakin-Obalufe road in Ile-Ife

    By Flowerbud News

    Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun on Friday inaugurated the Parakin-Obalufe road in Ile-Ife as part of his urban renewal programme in the state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the 0.25 kilometre road project was funded by Mr Ebenezer Fashogbon, an indigene of Ile-Ife.

    Speaking during the inauguration in Ile-Ife, Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, promising that the state under his watch would continue to muster resources to build strategic roads.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Adedipo Eluwole, the governor commended Fashogbon for the gesture and complementing government efforts on rural development.

    He noted that the present administration “is a lover of progress” and that was why various projects were being embarked on across the state to ensure that life was bearable for all and sundry.

    “Ile-Ife ongoing flyover that suppose to end at Ogbingbin area, now extended to Ojafe side which is going to be dualised with street lights.

    “This type of personal development should continue to complement the government efforts so as to ensure good life for our people,” the governor said.

    Also speaking, Sen. Babajide Omoworare, former Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters, admonished stakeholders and other philanthropists to emulate Fashogbon, sayings that the people needed to contribute their quota to the development of their town.
    Also, Mr Ebenezer Fashogbon, who funded the road project, appreciated God, and commended the residents for their support toward the success of the project.

    Fashogbon equally thanked his wife, Ndidi, for supporting him in the construction of the road.

    The Australian based philanthropist pledged to encourage other indigenes of Ile-Ife in the diaspora to come home to develop the ancient town.

    The Obalufe of Ifeland, Oba Idowu Adediwura, applauded Fashogbon and his wife for the gesture to the community.

    Obalufe, therefore, called on other indigenes of the town in diaspora to emulate Fashogbon by assisting the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and the government to develop the community.

    The Engineer in charge of project, Olawale Atoyebi, explained that the road was built to specification and guaranteed its durability.

    NAN

  • APC group appeals for zoning of governorship position to Osun West

    APC group appeals for zoning of governorship position to Osun West

    By Flowerbud News

    The Progressive Frontliners (TPF), a group within the All Progressive Congress (APC), as appealed to the party’s leadership to allow Osun West Senatorial District produce the candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

    Addressing a news conference in Osogbo on Friday, the group said that the gesture would enhance the chances  of APC winning the 2026 governorship poll.

    Mr Ajijola Ayodeji, the Coordinator of the Group, said their call was to address the imbalance in the production of governors in the state and also to gain more party members.

    “Allocating the party ticket to Osun West this time around would address this imbalance and promote inclusivity.

    “It will also empower Osun West to fully participate and lead in the development of our state alongside other districts.

    “Again, from an electoral strategy standpoint, zoning to Osun West will invigorate our support base, motivating both the party faithful and local communities.

    “This action would demonstrate that the APC values every zone within the state equally, thereby rallying widespread support and enthusiasm, which is crucial for a successful election outcome,” he said

    The TPF coordinator also said that leaders from Osun West always bring diverse perspectives and ideas that enriches the party’s policies and programmes, fostering innovation and growth.

    “Osun West is home to individuals with strong leadership qualities, integrity, and dedication, who have proven their mettle in various capacities.

    “This talent pool is ripe for offering fresh and dynamic leadership that can attract both grassroots support and intellectual capital to our party.” Ayodeji said

    He said zoning the party ticket to Osun West also aligns with the spirit of the APC’s foundational vision, which emphasizes fairness, unity, and national integration.

    “It would resonate positively with the broader electorate, showcasing our commitment to balanced development and equal participation across all regions.” he said

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group, after the news conference, matched to the APC party secretariat in Osogbo, where they submitted their letter of request

    NAN

     

  • AEDC announces impending power interruption in some franchise areas

    AEDC announces impending power interruption in some franchise areas

    By Flowerbud News

    The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has announced an impending power interruption in parts of its franchise areas between Jan.  6 and Jan. 21.
    The  AEDC made the announcement on its X handle in Abuja on Friday.
    ‘According  to the company, to Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is relocating the 33 Kilo Volt (KV) DC Airport Feeder and 132KV Kukwaba-Apo Transmission Line Towers along the Outer Southern Expressway.
    It listed areas that would experience power outages during the period to include Lugbe and environs, Airport Road, Kapwa, NNPC, Games Village, National Stadium, Eye Clinic, Indoor Complex, Christ Embassy Church.
    “Others areas are American International School, Spring Court, American Embassy Quarters, EFCC headquarters, Coca Cola, Railway, Federal Medical Centre (FMC).
    ”Parts of Apo, Parts of Gudu, Gbazango and environs, Parts of Kubwa, Bwari and environs, Parts of Jahi, Parts of Jabi, Karu, Nyanya, Mararaba, Keffi and environs, and other parts of Abuja.
    ”We are working  round  the  clock  to  reduce  downtime  as much as possible,  and regret any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding,” it said.
    NAN
  • Pipelines vandalism: Expert urges FG to explore modern technology

    Pipelines vandalism: Expert urges FG to explore modern technology

    Oni, who is also a partner at Bloomfield Law Firm, recommended the deployment of drones, pipe-in-pipe systems, fibre-optic sensors, and pressure-drop-controlled flow stations to enhance pipeline monitoring and functionality.

    He gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos.

    He said this recommended strategies would safeguard the nation’s pipeline system from continuous vandalisation.

    According to Oni, strenghtening security measures is essential for curbing illegal activities and ensuring a steady revenue flow from oil and gas, which are critical to the country’s development.

    He further explained that ensuring a steady supply of feedstock was essential for achieving optimal refinery production, which would help meet domestic fuel demand and reduce dependence on fuel imports.

    He said, “Local refineries must explore various options to ensure continuous access to feedstock, which is necessary to maintain optimal refining levels.

    “The distance from the feedstock source and its type can affect refining economics, and refineries must minimise dependency on the government for supply.”

    Oni said that establishing strategic partnerships with upstream oil producers and situating refineries near crude sources, could guarantee steady supply of crude.

    He noted that conventional refineries with larger crude requirements might consider sourcing from international markets.

    The expert added that for modular refineries, co-locating them within existing refineries or onshore marginal fields could prove beneficial.

    Oni, however, stated that damaged pipelines, shallow water channels, and inadequate logistics and infrastructure were significant challenges facing the refining sector and the broader oil and gas industry.

    He explained that pipeline damage had consistently disrupted crude supply, while the country’s rail and inland waterway systems remained suboptimal for transporting large volumes of oil and refined products.

    To address these issues, Oni called for significant investments in rail system, dredging and barges, to facilitate efficient transportation.

    He stressed that a robust intermodal transport system, combining rail, inland waterways, and road transport, would be essential for optimal refined product distribution,

    He also advocated for Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure gap.

    On boosting domestic production, Oni lauded the Dangote Integrated Refinery, which has a refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd).

    He said that the 20 billion dollars refinery, which began operations in January, had already started producing products such as naphtha and jet fuel.

    According to OPEC’s 2021 World Oil Outlook, Africa’s medium-term oil outlook is more optimistic, with 1.2 million bpd of new capacity expected by 2026, half of which will come from the Dangote refinery.

    He said that since its commissioning, the Dangote refinery had reduced fuel imports, saved foreign exchange and alleviated fuel shortages in the country.

    He said that with an estimated production of 330,000 bpd of petrol, the refinery accounts for over one per cent of global petrol demand.

    Oni also mentioned that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL),  had announced the re-streaming of the Port Harcourt refinery, signaling the government’s commitment to enhancing crude oil processing and delivering petroleum products to the market.

    He noted that this project involves engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning (EPCIC) efforts, aimed at restoring the refinery’s full functionality.

    He stated that in the final quarter of 2024, Nigeria achieved a significant milestone, with crude oil and condensate production reaching 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd).

    Oni described this achievement as a major step towards meeting OPEC’s production quota, which Nigeria had struggled to fulfill for several years.

    NAN

  • LASTMA rescues 8 injured passengers

    LASTMA rescues 8 injured passengers

    By Flowerbud News

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued eight injured passengers involved in an accident at Hammadiya inward Abule-Egba.

    The LASTMA General Manager, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos.

    The statement was signed by Mr Taofiq Adebayo, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA.

    Bakare-Oki said the road traffic incident which involved a commercial long bus, popularly referred to as ‘Molue,’ at Hammadiya inward Abule-Egba, caused severe injuries and significant disruption to traffic.

    “The accident was triggered when the vehicle, registered as KTU 801 XM, lost control at excessive speed, reportedly due to driver impatience.

    “In an attempt to avoid colliding with another LT commercial bus and pedestrians awaiting transport at the roadside, the driver veered sharply, resulting in the bus crashing into the expressway median and overturning.

    “Several passengers sustained injuries, while others escaped through the bus’s windows,” he said.

    He said that officers from LASTMA promptly arrived at the scene, executed a well-coordinated and efficient rescue operation.

    “Eight individuals, including five males and three females, suffered varying degrees of injuries. Among the injured was the bus driver, who sustained a fractured left arm.

    “All victims were immediately handed over to LASAMBUS medical personnel and transported to the General Hospital at Ile-Epo for urgent medical attention,” he said.

    Bakare-Oki said to ensure the free flow of traffic and public safety, LASTMA’s Response Unit was swiftly mobilised to oversee the removal of the overturned vehicle.

    He added that security support was provided by officers from the Meran Police Division, ensuring that the rescue operation proceeded without hindrance.

    Bakare-Oki extended his sympathies to the injured passengers and conveyed his wishes for their swift recovery.

    He emphasised the importance of strict adherence to traffic regulations, particularly compliance with speed limits as prescribed by the Lagos State Government.

    He also implored commercial and private vehicle operators to prioritise regular maintenance of their vehicles, with particular attention to critical systems such as brakes, to avert preventable accidents.

    “This unfortunate incident underscores LASTMA’s resolute commitment to preserving lives and ensuring safety on Lagos roads through proactive interventions and collaborative engagements with emergency response agencies,” he said.

    NAN

  • Legal practitioners seek improved infrastructure, reformative judicial system in 2025

    Legal practitioners seek improved infrastructure, reformative judicial system in 2025

    By Flowerbud News

    Some legal practitioners have called for sustained improvement in judicial infrastructure, processes and systems to improve the sector in 2025.

    The lawyers made the remarks in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Friday.

    One time Oyo State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Mr Oluseun Abimbola, called for the establishment of operational protocols for registry operations and its enforcement with integrity.

    “We cannot impose by court rules, sanctions on parties and lawyers for the delay in filings, etc., and there are no concurrent sanctions (administrative or otherwise) when the delay is from the court registry.

    “This diminishes efficiency in the system,” said Abimbola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

    Abimbola called for improved training of court staff, discipline, and the need to revisit compartmentalising the roles of heads of court and the Judicial Service Commission to create efficiency.

    “Administration of courts and its systems all over the world is now professionally run for improved efficiency.

    “It is not merged with the judicial function of administration of justice itself, which is the role of the judges.

    “We need to interrogate these issues with a view to innovating for better efficiency, these are ongoing conversations geared toward a reform.

    “I am hopeful the judicial reform process will fully address all these in 2025,” said Abimbola.

    According to him, while the judiciary has continued to strive for reform and better outcomes, the system remains hamstrung by institutional challenges.

    He mentioned challenges of decaying infrastructure, ill-trained registry staff, lack of modern tools, not enough judicial officers to preside over matters in many jurisdictions as well as people problems.

    “I read a narrative of an affidavit scam run by some court registries; horrific as it sounds, we are yet to see a decisive response from the affected court to crush such obnoxious practices.

    “As efforts are being made to improve on building court infrastructure, and increasing wages, we must also not shun the need to address our human challenges.

    “The challenges, once brought to the fore, should force a change in work culture and discipline in the system,” said the former attorney-general.

    Mr Ibrahim Lawal, Ibadan Branch Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), said judiciary workers could only improve when the sector emphasised training and retraining.

    Lawal also urged the sector and governments to provide an enabling environment for the workers to do their jobs effectively.

    He, however, advised the workers to be more committed to their work.

    The NBA boss also urged those connected with the administration of justice to perform their roles with sincerity and courage.

    “The judiciary in Oyo State did its best, taking into account the number of judges on duty in the better part of the year.

    “The number of judges in contradiction of the number of cases in their dockets shows they performed above average.

    “We hope that having appointed 10 more judges, the performance will be better in the new year,” Lawal said.

    Similarly, Mrs Mahmudat Yussuf, Partner at Mondial Solicitors, called for an enabling environment for the justice sector to thrive and meet the rising demand for settlement of disputes.

    Yussuf also called for adequate provisions for the transition from longhand writing by judges and magistrates to tech-enabled gadgets that could record and transcribe proceedings.

    This, she added, would reduce the strain on them and enable productivity.

    “The Oyo State judiciary has been impressive despite that our judges and magistrates have been overworked.

    “With the newly appointed judges, we look forward to better days ahead.

    “There is still a need for improved service delivery and adequate notice of adjournment if the courts will not be sitting.

    “This will enable productivity and save time from travelling all the way for a matter that will not be going on.

    “Giving adequate notice will also reduce the risks associated with travelling,” she said.

    She identified effective dispute resolution mechanisms and access to justice as yardsticks to measure development in a society.

    NAN

  • 2025: Nigeria at verge of great development, says TEXEM boss

    2025: Nigeria at verge of great development, says TEXEM boss

    By Flowerbud News

    Nigeria is at the verge of greater development in 2025 with the visionary leadership of the current administration, says an economic expert.

    Dr Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM, UK and senior lecturer at Sheffield Business School, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Abubakre said that the measures taken by President Bola Tinubu have showed prospects of improving the economy and moving the nation towards a new economic renaissance.
    He added that the potentials of the country needed visionary leadership at all levels to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration.

    He suggested a number of steps that must be taken to sustain the tempo of the agenda for the benefit of citizens.

    ‘’Nigeria has the critical ingredients of a remarkable success story: vast natural resources, an energetic and youthful population, a dynamic entrepreneurial scene, and strategic influence in Africa.

    ‘’Translating these advantages into real-world prosperity, however, hinges on systematic efforts to quell insecurity, modernise infrastructure, and eradicate corruption.

    ‘’When trust in institutions grows, communities become safer, and talents are harnessed in service of progress, the nation stands on the cusp of a profound transformation,’’ he said.

    Abubakre said that the localisation of global best practices would assist in no small measure to attract foreign direct investment, improved infrastructure and security.

    He said that practices abound in other countries that had faced similar economic trends Nigeria is currently facing.

    ‘’By adopting the lessons of Rwanda, Colombia, India, Indonesia, and other nations—while calibrating them to Nigerian realities—leaders can build genuine momentum for change.

    ‘’Diversifying beyond oil secures economic stability. Fostering youth entrepreneurship creates pathways out of poverty and channels youthful zeal into productive endeavours.

    ‘’Modernising infrastructure enables businesses to operate seamlessly, while robust transparency measures rebuild faith in governance. Strengthening human capital fuels, a leap into a globally competitive knowledge economy.

    ‘’At the same time, addressing deep-seated grievances through community-led development and inclusive policies strikes at the heart of insecurity, replacing despair with opportunity.’’

    Abubakre added that under visionary leadership that is firmly rooted in empathy, accountability and effective as well as efficient implementation of policies, Nigeria can break free of its historical constraints.

    ‘’As Nigeria continues along this journey, it has the potential to radiate positive influence throughout Africa and beyond, providing a blueprint for how strategic leadership can convert manifold struggles into a legacy of shared prosperity.’’

    NAN