Flowerbud News

Category: General News

  • NAFDAC Moves to Tackle Drug Abuse Among Youths in Gombe, Launches Safety Club in Schools

    NAFDAC Moves to Tackle Drug Abuse Among Youths in Gombe, Launches Safety Club in Schools

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Gombe (FLOWERBUDNEWS): As the NAFDAC nationwide sensitisation of youths against drug abuse intensifies, the Agency has inaugurated its Consumer Safety Club (NCSC) in Government Day Secondary School, Gandu, Gombe State

    Speaking during the launching ceremony, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said that the current youth sensitisation and enlightenment campaign was part of NAFDAC “Catch Them Young” initiative to combat drug abuse among young people.

    Prof. Adeyeye, who was represented by the Gombe State NAFDAC Coordinator, Pharm. James Agada described the 14.4 per cent prevalence of drug abuse among Nigerians as “alarming.”

    The NAFDAC Boss said that the Agency was committed.to collaborating with parents to identify behavioural issues, stressing that the combined effort of stakeholders is essential to reduce drug dependency among youths.

    She urged the sudents to resist peer pressure, abstain from drug abuse, and seek professional help when necessary.

    Prof Adeyeye highlighted the importance of NCSC membership, urging the students to assist in information flow on NAFDAC regulatory activities.

    (NAFDAC DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye)

    She urged them to actively promote NAFDAC fight against drug abuse, as well as against counterfeit and harmful products and substances. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • Decrease in Petroleum Products Importation Indicates Nigeria’s Emergence as a New Global Economic Power -TDF

    Decrease in Petroleum Products Importation Indicates Nigeria’s Emergence as a New Global Economic Power -TDF

     

    By Danladi Ahmed

    The Democratic Front (TDF) welcomes with joy and a renewed sense of patriotism Bloomberg’s report and analysis on the 8-year record decrease in Nigeria’s petroleum products importation index, on account of the increase in domestic refining of petroleum products by indigenous Refineries.

    In a statement jointly signed by Mallam Danjuma Mohammed and Chief Wale Adedayo, TDF says: It is a known fact that the failure of previous regimes in Nigeria to encourage domestic refining of petroleum products exposed the nation to decades of wasteful expenditure on petroleum importation amounting to billions of dollars.

    “Indeed, the nation was deprived of meaningful development, as the billions of dollars made from the sales of crude oil were utilized to import petroleum products into the country.

    Economic stagnation, high unemployment rate, lack of productivity, monumental corruption, and insecurity were part of the prices the nation paid for its misplacement of economic priority.

    “It is this catastrophic economic decision that dragged the country’s economy to the brink of collapse, which made President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms an inevitable necessity for national survival.

    “Our assessment in The Democratic Front has shown that in less than two years, the implementation of Tinubu’s far-reaching economic reforms has changed Nigeria’s socio-economic fortunes for the better.

    “The huge plunge in Nigeria’s petroleum products importation to an 8-year low has ensured that a significant amount of foreign exchange is conserved within the economy to create jobs and also boost productivity. Similarly, it has enhanced the stability and consistent firming of the Naira.

    “It is for this particular reason that The Democratic Front decided to espouse the projections of Bloomberg on the enormous economic gains that await Nigeria if the declining trend in the rate of petroleum products importation into the country continues in the months ahead.

    “If the Dangote, Port-Hacourt and Warri refineries continue to ramp up production of refined petroleum products, with the possibility of being joined by the upcoming Bua and Kaduna refineries, Nigeria would have saved an estimated annual $10 billion on petroleum products imports, by establishing its self-sufficiency in petroleum products and dominating the lucrative African market. This goes a long way to Pave the way for the country’s eventual emergence as the new global economic power from Africa.

    We commend, therefore, the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration for showcasing Nigeria’s potential in crude oil distillation to the outside world.

    “The surge in the number of refineries currently operating in Nigeria, coupled with the government’s efforts to create a very conducive business environment, will make the country a major crude oil refining hub in Africa

    We also thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for refusing to adopt the official position of the three past PDP regimes, with regard to the In-Country refining of petroleum. We recall that the PDP governments had told Nigerians, and indeed the world, that it was better to expend the money earned from the sales of Nigeria’s crude oil, to import refined petroleum products into the country than to distill the crude domestically.

    “Contrary to this embarrassing position, and the expectations of naysayers of this administration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fast transforming Nigeria from being a major consumer of imported petroleum products to becoming a net exporter of refined petroleum products.

    “This remarkable feat by the President deserves the appreciation and commendation of every well-meaning citizen of Nigeria, the TMSG conluded.

  • Tijaniyya leader worldwide delivers verdict on Tinubu after prayers at Aso Rock

    Tijaniyya leader worldwide delivers verdict on Tinubu after prayers at Aso Rock

     

    Sheikh Mahi Ibrahim-Niass, the leader of Tijaniyya movement worldwide and other members of his group at Aso Rock presidential villa

     

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Sheikh Mahi Ibrahim-Niass, the leader of the Tijaniyya movement worldwide, has described President Bila Tinubu as a patriotic and compassionate leader, who is always concerned about the well being of all Nigerians and the progress of the nation.

    Mahi Ibrahim-Niass who is the present Khalifah (successor) of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass and the President of the African Islamic Union spoke on
    on Friday after observing the Jumma’at prayer with Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    Sheikh Mahi accompanied by the leaders of the Tijaniyya movement in Nigeria, held a special prayer for the success of the President Tinubu government.

    Speaking after the Jumma’at prayer, the cleric said it was part of his annual programme to visit Nigeria and seek divine support for enhanced security and economic prosperity in the country.

    Mahi described President Tinubu as a patriotic and compassionate leader, who is always concerned about the well being of all Nigerians and the progress of the nation.

    “Every year I visit Nigeria from Senegal to pray for peace, stability and development of Nigeria, and over the last few days I visited Bauchi State and others parts of the country.

    “I’m very pleased with the warm reception accorded us by the President. We observed Jumma’at prayer together and that goes to show how President Tinubu is concerned about Nigeria and its people.

    “May the Almighty Allah make Nigeria to stabilise economically, bring back peace in all areas affected by the insecurity,” the cleric prayed. (NAN)

     

  • Untitled post 64966

     

    (The writer – Zainab, is an aspiring Mass Communicator, Writer and Broadcaster, currently studying English Language at the University of Abuja.)

    By Zainab Musa
    Abuja” (Flowerbudnews): Getting admission into the University was one of my happiest moments ever. . I was very excited when I got admission into the University of Abuja.

    After preparing myself to go back to school again, though it wasn’t an easy process, but it was an exciting experience and a memorable one.

    Finally, I when I got to the gate of the University,, I becameI so nervous and began missing home. I however, encouraged myself to be focused.

    After I was allocated to my accomodation by the hostel portress, I parked my box and every other belongings of mine and prepared my bed, waiting for the next day to complete my physical screening.

    It was a very long night to me because, I felt lonely and bittered because I had no friends then.

    The next morning, I took my shower and prepared a quick breakfast and left for my physical screening.

    I was successfully screened and I became happy, then I got back to my hostel and had a restful day.

    I started attending lectures that same week, though it wasn’t easy for me to grab everything because I wasn’t too focused because I missed home so badly.

    As time flew, I got used to everything and even made friends at my Department and hostel.
    There are beautiful and handsome students in University of Abuja.

    Different types of people with different characters. People are friendly here and very easy and lenient to be with.

    After my one month experience, I can say that University of Abuja is not for the weak.
    Being in University of Abuja is a privilege because it’s one of the best Universities in Nigeria if not the best. (Flowerbudnews)

    About Flowerbudnews

    Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers. We are drawn from both public and private sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism.

    Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

    On the International scene, Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

    The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the EVOWAS’  ECOMOG Regional assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

    He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

    He is also the Author of a Mass Communication Book;  PUBLIC COMMUNICATION In The  21st Century,  A Guide to Press Secretaries and Image Makers (Currently awaiting  Printing and Public presentation)

  • Edo election tribunal: PDP accused of stage-managing video recording of threat to its witnesses

    Edo election tribunal: PDP accused of stage-managing video recording of threat to its witnesses

     

    An erstwhile supporter of Asue Ighodalo for Governor, Mr. John Mayaki, has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of stage-managing the video recording of the allegations that its witnesses at the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja were threatened by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) members

    Mayaki, who was reacting to a video being circulated by supporters of Ighodalo on the alleged threats to their witnesses in a statement on Sunday, said the allegations were untrue.

    “It is glaring that the video was concocted among themselves to fake a threat to their witnesses. If they can do this, there’s nothing stopping them from faking INEC documents in the ongoing election petition tribunal,” he alleged.

    He condemned the supporters of the PDP candidate for recording themselves and faking threats against their witnesses to blame the APC.

    His words: “This antic is well known already. If they can fake threats, what else are they not capable of faking? You can now see that their election claims and the credibility of their witnesses are all fake.

    “When you listen to the video, someone was heard saying, ‘Cut the video, let us record another one.’ What do you call that? Is that not a stage-managed recording of the same people threatening themselves in the guise of the ruling party?

    “And just imagine the timing. Just as their counsel told the court about threats to their witnesses, they have taken a step further to cook up a video. Of course, the counsel of the APC told him what to do if, in reality, any threat exists.

    “I challenge the PDP to produce the phone number of the person who called to threaten them and also approach the security agencies for a full investigation rather than seeking public sympathy with a self-made video to discredit the ruling party. What the PDP has done defies logic and common sense.

    “I have listened to the video, and I can say that the call was not natural, as there were noticeable dialogues and suspicious cuts. It should be ignored as the sheer amateurish desperation of the PDP, their candidate, and their supporters.”

  • FULL LIST: 10 Most Sought-After Nigerian Varsities Emerge

    FULL LIST: 10 Most Sought-After Nigerian Varsities Emerge

     

     

     Efe Wellington

    – ‘Figures don’t lie,’ Statistics from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on admission into 270 tertiary institutions reveals 10 universities that are mostly sought-after by applicants (students) in the 2024 UTME. Number nine may shock you

    Over 1.5 million Nigerians seek tertiary institution admission every year through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) organised entrance examination.

    JAMB applicants make their choices from over 270 tertiary institutions according to their selection metrics.

    Here are the most sought-after institutions in Nigeria in 2024, according to the JAMB report.

    1. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

    The university located in Ilorin, Kwara State had 64,143 applicants in 2024. UNILORIN remains a favourite among JAMB applicants is its stable academic calendar for obvious reasons such as the ability to complete programmes without unnecessary delays.

    Besides, the school has a strong academic reputation, which makes it a highly attractive option.

    UNILORIN Confirms Kadijah Kehinde Kadiri As Professor of Communication

    Some of the most sought-after courses at UNILORIN include Medicine and Surgery, Law, Engineering (Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical), Accounting, and Computer Science.

    2. Lagos State University (LASU)

    Lagos State University located at Ojo, had 62,601 applicants in 2024.

    LASU’s strategic location in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, adds to its appeal, offering students access to countless opportunities during and after their studies.

    LASU Record Breaker: How I Survived on Garri, Lived on Varsity Premises Without Room

    Many students apply to study in LASU because of the location, which gives them better access to internships, job opportunities, and professional networks.

    Moreover, the university has strong emphasis on practical education and exposure to real-world experiences.

    Some of the most in-demand courses at LASU include Law, Medicine and Surgery, Accounting, Computer Science, and Business Administration.

    3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

    The University of Lagos, Akoka, got a total of 59,105 applicants in 2024.

    The university established in 1962, is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and oldest federal universities.

    ‘Casino Journalism And The End of History,’ UNILAG’s Prof. Ismail Ibraheem Delivers Inaugural Lecture

    It is often referred to as the “University of First Choice”, a testament to its long-standing reputation as a top destination for higher education in Nigeria.

    Its location offers students unique opportunities for internships, industrial training, and employment after graduation. Some of the most sought-after courses include Medicine and Surgery, Law, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Mass Communication.

    4. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

    Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, a relatively young institution, established in 2011 had 55,481 in 2024 UTME.

    Despite being a young institution, many JAMB applicants apply to study in FUOYE because of its fast-growing academic reputation, expanding infrastructure, and stable academic calendar.

    The university invests in improved infrastructure, including lecture halls, libraries, and laboratories.

    Some of the most in-demand courses at FUOYE include: Agricultural Sciences, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical), Computer Science, Business Administration, and Economics.

    5. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

    Nnamdi Azikiwe University situated in Awka, Anambra State capital, with the other two campuses in Nnewi and Agulu had 54,495 applicants.

    Meet Prof. Sa’adatu Liman, First Female VC In Nasarawa State Varsity’s History

    The university emphasises research, with several research centres contributing to societal development. It offers diverse programmes in fields such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Social Sciences.

    Besides, UNIZIK has managed to maintain a fairly consistent academic schedule compared to many other universities.

    6. University of Ibadan (UI)

    The University of Ibadan (UI), established in 1948, holds the prestigious title of Nigeria’s first university.

    In the 2024 UTME, 50,598 candidates applied to study in UI, according JAMB’s data.

    The university has built a legacy of producing exceptional graduates who excel in various fields globally. As a leading research institution, UI has made significant contributions to health, science, and technology.

    Besides, the university boasts highly qualified lecturers and researchers across all disciplines, and well-equipped libraries, modern laboratories, and renowned faculty members create an outstanding academic environment.

    Some of the most sought-after courses at UI include: Medicine and Surgery, Law, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, Engineering, (Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical).

    7. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

    The University of Nigeria, Nsukka got 48,544 applicant in 2024 UTME.

    The university, modeled after the American educational system, has consistently set high academic standards and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s educational and socio-economic development. It remains one of the most prestigious universities in the country.

    Some of the most sought-after courses at UNN include: Medicine and Surgery, Law, Pharmacy, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical), and Mass Communication.

    8. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

    The University of Benin located at the heart of Edo State capital had 47,811 applicants.

    The university is known for its academic excellence, robust research culture, and diverse student population, and remains a top choice for many JAMB applicants.

    Some of the most in-demand courses at UNIBEN include Medicine and Surgery, Law, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical), Pharmacy, and Business Administration.

    9. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

    The Obafemi Awolowo University at Ile-Ife in Osun State had 44,155 applicants.

    The university is known for its commitment to intellectual excellence and academic discipline. OAU is a favourite among JAMB applicants because of its academic excellence, historical significance, and beautiful campus environment.

    Some of the most sought-after courses at OAU include: Medicine and Surgery Law, Pharmacy, Engineering (Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical) and Architecture.

    10. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

    The University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State had 40,176 applicants.

    Many students prefer the university because of its academic excellence, innovation, and strong industry connections.

    Besides, it offers students unique internship and employment opportunities because of its strategic location.

    Some of the most sought-after courses at UNIPORT include Petroleum Engineering, Medicine and Surgery, Law, Accounting, and Business Administration.

    UNIPORT’s dedication to bridging the gap between academia and industry ensures that graduates are well-prepared for employment and entrepreneurship.

  • Don’t Return PDP to Power in 2027, APC Urges Nigerians

    Don’t Return PDP to Power in 2027, APC Urges Nigerians

    Courtesy:  Punch

     

    By  Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis

    The ruling All Progressives Congress has described the opposition Peoples Democratic Party as a political platform that is gradually going into extinction amid its perennial leadership crisis.

    APC urged Nigerians to ensure that the PDP did not return to power following the alleged rot it left behind after ruling the country for 16 years

    The appeal was made by the National Publicity Director of the APC, Bala Ibrahim, in an interview with Sunday PUNCH.

    He said, “Nigeria was still suffering from the rot of the 16-year misrule of the PDP. That party is gone. Are these the clowns people are taking seriously to rule this country again? Believe me, this is just the beginning. We at the APC are enjoying the entertainment.

    “The party is not good at managing anything, including itself. What is happening has shown that God came to the rescue of Nigerians by pushing them out of power

    “There are more to come if you go into the nitty-gritty of the problems in that party. They should come and learn how to play politics in our APC Progressive Institute set up by the National Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje. They will be taught how to play politics without bitterness.”

    When reminded that many critics of President Bola Tinubu had alleged APC’s involvement in the PDP and other opposition parties’ crisis, Ibrahim said, “How is the APC responsible for the crisis that is happening at Wadata Plaza (PDP headquarters in Abuja)? We are not even staying close. So, how can they blame us for their woes? What does APC have to do with having two different secretaries and two chairmen or whatever they seem to have?

    “They simply don’t know how to administer anything and they cannot. Who among the protestants is a card-carrying member of the APC? Who among the people causing the crisis is claiming allegiance to APC? None. It is within them.”

    Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was notably absent as key leaders of the North East zonal caucus of the PDP met in Bauchi to discuss reconciliation efforts and strategies for the party’s future, particularly the 2027 elections.

    The meeting, held on Thursday, was attended by the three PDP governors from the region.

    They are Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, his counterpart in Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, and Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri.

    Also, in attendance were members of the PDP Reconciliation Committee, led by former National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola, senators, House of Representatives members, and state assembly members from the zone.

  • FG allocates N940bn to TETfund in 2025 budget -Tinubu

    FG allocates N940bn to TETfund in 2025 budget -Tinubu

     

    THE Federal Government says it has allocated N940.5 billion to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in the 2025 fiscal year, to enhance manpower and infrastructure development in the education sector.

    President Bola Tinubu stated this on Saturday at the 42nd Founders’ Day and 33rd Convocation of the Federal University of Technology, Minna.

    Represented by Rakiya Iliyasu, Director of Tertiary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Tinubu said the gesture was demonstrating his administration commitment towards improving educational infrastructure and manpower.

    He said the federal government had disbursed over N104 billion loans to more than 600,000 students across tertiary institutions under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

    Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-driven society, prioritising education in its policies and funding initiatives.

    He urged universities to deepen collaborations with industries, aligning research with societal needs to contribute meaningfully to national development.

    The president congratulated the graduates for their resilience and determination, and enjoined them to embrace their new chapter with confidence and purpose.

    The Vice-Chancellor,  Prof. Faruk Adamu-Kuta described the institution’s 42nd Founders’ Day and 33rd Convocation Ceremony as historical.

    He said the university had grown to become a leading institution in technological education in the country, ranking 8th on the index of best universities in Nigeria and 2nd among specialised universities.

    Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger, expressed gratitude to the university for confering on him a Doctorate Degree in Agriculture, saying that it served as a call to do more in the sector.

    He reiterated commitment to collaborate with individuals to make education accessible to every citizen of the state, and urged the university to continue to take the lead in training and innovative research.

    Bago advocated for stronger ties with the state government to ensure the institution’s sustainability through agriculture.

    The governor donated N100 million to the endowment fund established by Sen. Muhammad Sani-Musa, who also donated N200 million.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the university produced 5,816 graduates for the 2023/2024 academic session, comprising 4,955 undergraduates, 632 Master’s degree, 105 postgraduate diploma, and 124 PhD holders. (NAN)

  • Breaking:  30 die in Ondo accident

    Breaking:  30 die in Ondo accident

    By Flowerbudnews

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo state has confirmed the death of 30 persons in a road accident that occurred at Onipetsi, along the Ore-Lagos highway, Odigbo local government area.

    A total of 28 persons were burnt beyond recognition while two others died while being taken to the hospital for treatment.

    Two survivors are said to be receiving treatment in an hospital.

    The accident occurred when two commercial buses had a head on collision and burst into flames.

    Ondo FRSC Commander, Samuel Ibitoye, said preliminary investigation showed one of the vehicles drove against traffic.

    Ibitoye said the accident happened on Saturday.

    He assured that investigation would unravel more details on the incident