Flowerbud News

Category: General News

  • Benue Killings: MACBAN commends Tinubu for timely intervention, visit

    Benue Killings: MACBAN commends Tinubu for timely intervention, visit

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his intervention and timely visit to Benue State.

    The National President of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, gave the commendation in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Othman-Ngelzarma also lauded the Federal Government and security agencies for their prompt actions to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

    “We wish to thank President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his intervention and timely visit to Benue.

    “We also thank Mr. President for having the courage to urge political and traditional leaders in Benue State to seek peaceful coexistence among themselves.

    “We hope that this visit will help restore the much-needed peace to Benue State and the nation at large,” he said.

    He expressed condolences to the Federal Government, the Government and people of Benue State, and all Nigerians over the senseless loss of lives and destruction of property in the state.

    “As the umbrella organisation of Fulani cattle breeders and herders in Nigeria, MACBAN remains committed to the peaceful and harmonious coexistence of Nigeria’s more than 300 ethnic groups.

    “As major stakeholders in the Nigerian project and one of the biggest contributors to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, it is in our best interest to promote peace with other Nigerians.

    Unfortunately, much as we try to live in peace with other Nigerians, Fulani Cattle Breeders are often isolated for ethnic profiling, stigmatised, taunted and abused.”

    Othman-Ngelzarma alleged that between September to December 2024, 12 Fulani herders were killed in Logo Local Government rea Benue State.

    ” Also In January 2025, eight herders were killed in Kwande Local government of the state and 268 cattle either rustled or killed, ” he alleged.

    Othman-Ngelzarma emphasised the need for political, traditional, religious, and community leaders in the state to commit to promoting peaceful coexistence between agrarian and livestock-rearing communities.

    He also urged leaders to stop pushing divisive narratives that undermine peace and unity.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • NIA trains insurance IT leaders, CIOs on standards

    NIA trains insurance IT leaders, CIOs on standards

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), in partnership with Training Heights, has trained over 80 Chief Information Officers and senior IT professionals in global IT standards.

    This is contained in a statement on Monday by Mrs Joke Adeyemi, Head of Corporate Communications at the NIA.

    The training, aimed at improving technical competence, took place in two sessions held on May 31 and June 14.

    It covered international standards such as ISO 27001 (Information Security Management), ISO 20000 (IT Service Management), and ISO 22301 (Business Continuity Management).

    Mrs Bola Odukale, Director-General of the NIA, said the initiative promotes digital resilience, innovation, and secure IT governance within the insurance sector.

    She noted that the training supports the theme of the current NIA Chairman’s administration: ‘Digital Disruption and Social Innovation: Reshaping Our Traditional Models.’

    According to her, the programme was created to upskill participants and advance the association’s wider digital transformation agenda.

    She urged attendees to make the most of this opportunity to manage information systems securely and efficiently in today’s digital age.

    “This marks a major step toward a digitally empowered insurance industry ready to face new challenges with innovation and trust,” Odukale added.

    The sessions were led by Dr Olumide Orlando, CEO of Training Heights and a well-known expert in IT standards and compliance.

    Participants included Chief Digital Officers, Heads of IT, and other technology leaders from NIA member companies.

  • Ivory Coast Presidential Candidate Taps UN Special Envoy Jonathan Ojadah as Adviser.

    Ivory Coast Presidential Candidate Taps UN Special Envoy Jonathan Ojadah as Adviser.

    Ivory Coast Presidential Candidate Taps UN Special Envoy Jonathan Ojadah as Adviser.
    By Adewale Owoade
    The United Nations Special Envoy, His Excellency Diplomat Jonathan Ojadah, has been appointed as Special Representative, Counselor, and Advisor to Ivory Coast Presidential Candidate, H.E. Ousman Camara.
    Amb.  Ojadah is a Non Career Nigerian Diplomat, Businessman,  humanitarian & Philanthropist.
    A native of Aviarha, Isoko North LGA in Delta State, Nigeria.
    A distinguished personality in the realm of international trade and investment diplomacy. With an expansive mastery in both bilateral and multilateral commerce, he is poised as a significant figure in global economic arenas.
    He has worked with different diplomats in several high level dialogues including the EU, AU & UN in countries such as Germany, United Kingdom, Lithuania, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zambia, Tanzania, Morocco, Kenya, Cameroon, Ghana and Uganda .
    Dr Ojadah is actively involved in various initiatives promoting international cooperation and diplomacy aimed at promoting sustainable peace and prosperity globally.
    Some of his notable achievements and initiatives include: advocating for the rights of marginalised communities and promoting social justice, consolidating Peaceful co-existence of societies in Africa, Promoting sustainable development and climate change mitigation efforts.
    Facilitating cultural exchange programs and educational initiatives between countries, building partnerships with other organisations and stakeholders to promote peace and prosperity globally.
    He has participated in various UN events, conferences and Peace Support Initiatives.
    Beyond his professional pursuits, Diplomat Jonathan’s profound philanthropy has been a beacon of hope for many. His dedication to humanitarian cause is further exemplified by the establishment of the Arise O Nigeria Empowerment Initiative, A non-governmental organization (NGO), launched with the support of UN Women in 2016.
    A testament to his commitment to empowering vulnerable groups, advocating for the marginalized, tirelessly working towards the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Nigeria.
    His Excellency,  Ojadah is presently holding an elective position as the Chairman, UNIPGC Supreme Council, also serving as the Diplomatic Head Of Mission for Africa and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA for the Royal Diplomatic Club of the United Nations, Lithuania EU.
    Amb.Ojadah’s work with UNIPGC has helped to promote the organisation’s goals and objectives, and has contributed to its reputation as a respected and influential international organisation.
    H. E Amb Dr. Jonathan’s mantle is adorned with over 15 Leadership, merit, and achievers awards, some of which include:  2024 U.S. President Joe Biden’s Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award.
    This  attracted congratulatory messages from top dignitaries worldwide, including Her Excellency, Chief Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor, former Vice President of Liberia; Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas, USA; Hon. Kevin Uguru, Member of the German Parliament; and others.
    United Nations  Rescue Marshall, FORBES Best of Africa Outstanding Leadership Personality in Sustainable Peace Building, Diplomacy & Governance Award 2023 nominated by the Foreign Investment Network (FIN) UK.
    A recognition of his relentless efforts, unwavering dedication, and steadfast commitment to humanitarian services.
    This prestigious FIN FOEBES Award recognition is a culmination of his consistent and impactful Sustainable Development projects that have significantly improved community and organisational effectiveness.
    These initiatives have also amplified the capabilities of his international team, leading to remarkable accomplishments and thus, meriting him the distinguished FIN-FORBES Award of Excellence, which he was honored with in London, UK, on July 19th, 2023.
    In a further commendation of his service. H.E. Amb Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, was bestowed with the Euroknowledge Leadership Award at the British Parliament, House Of Lords. London UK on the 24th Of Nov. 2023.
    Distinguished Service Award by the Rebranding Leaders Africa Initiative.This award was presented to him reflecting his exceptional contributions to the United Nations’ mission and values.
    Honorary Doctorate Causa from ISMT University in the Benin Republic, recognizing his scholarly contributions and societal impact.
    ICON of Societal Development award by the Yoruba Youth Assembly, symbolizing his influence and positive change across various communities.
    Ojadah’s accolades continues with another prestigious ICON of Societal Transformation award, bestowed upon him by the Northern Youths Peace Ambassadors of Nigeria.
    This honor celebrates his efforts in fostering unity, development, and peace among the diverse communities across Nigeria.
    Moreover, his work and influence extend beyond national boundaries, earning him the prestigious African Leadership Award.
    This award highlights his exemplary leadership qualities and his significant contributions to the advancement of African communities through sustainable development and peace-building initiatives.
    Amb. Jonathan is presently the Grand Patron of the SPARTAN EAGLES OF NIGERIA.
    Ambassador Dr. Jonathan’s illustrious career and philanthropic endeavors have established him as a beacon of Inspiration and a catalyst for positive change. not just in Africa but on the global stage.
    After his Tertiary Academic journey in Nigeria, His unquenchable thirst for knowledge led him to acquire an Advance Diploma in Diplomacy & International Relations from ESTAM University in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
    His academic ventures took him abroad to the International British Institute (IBI) in Cairo, Egypt, where he achieved an Advanced Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management.
    Furthering his education in the United States, he earned a Post Graduate Diploma (PGDE) in Education Management from the American Institute of Education & Training, and another Advanced Diploma in Health, Safety Environment (AD-HSE) Management from CIML Business School, USA.
    Amb. Dr. Jonathan also holds a Master’s (MBA) in Leadership & Business Management from CIML Business School, Delaware, USA.
  • BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection

    BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection

    By Flowerbud News

    Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to data protection in Nigeria.

    He disclosed this in a statement on Saturday by Zira Nagga, Head of Public Relations, BPP, following a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

    Adedokun stressed that data protection is vital to Nigeria’s economy and development, particularly in areas such as demography, health, education, and other key sectors.

    He emphasised that no country should leave its data unprotected, as it plays a crucial role in future planning and national development.

    “Data governs the world. It is essential to technological progress and must be protected for a country or business to be taken seriously,” he said.

    Adedokun described the visit, aimed at fostering partnership on data policy implementation and protection, as timely and aligned with national goals.

    He said the BPP would collaborate closely with the NDPC to boost data development, capacity building, and enhance the procurement system.

    “The BPP will support compliance as part of the ‘Nigeria First’ Policy, although it is not a core procurement eligibility requirement,” he explained.

    He suggested a hybrid training model to help build strong capacity in data protection, privacy awareness, and policy understanding.

    According to him, a dynamic training approach will reduce logistics costs and improve public confidence in data safety and privacy.

    Dr Vincent Olatunji, NDPC CEO and Pioneer National Commissioner, praised Adedokun and the BPP for supporting data protection initiatives.

    He said the partnership supports President Bola Tinubu’s vision and will strengthen data privacy across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

    “The collaboration will create awareness and train BPP staff to ensure a firm grasp of data protection principles and policies,” he stated.

    Olatunji said the NDPC would establish a working group to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding beneficial to both institutions.

    He added that President Tinubu signed the NDPC into law on 12 June 2023 to uphold citizens’ rights and protect national and business data.

    Olatunji also noted that strict legal measures were in place to enforce data protection and ensure full compliance nationwide.

    Both agencies agreed to form a team to sign the MoU and focus on capacity building and data management in procurement and beyond.

    NAN

  • Queens Club Igbaja Launched to Empower Women, Foster Community Development

     

    A new chapter in grassroots development began in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, with the official launch of the Igbaja Queens Club (IQC), an initiative driven by women to promote empowerment, unity, and self-reliance in the community.

    The launch, held at Elese’s Place, brought together traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and supporters of women-led development.

    The IQC was created by Igbaja women with the goal of equipping women and children with life-changing skills through vocational training and capacity building.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, Queen Muibat Olagunju, the Yeye Meso of Igbaja, said the club was borne out of a desire to uplift women and help them build stronger families and communities.

    “Our dream is to empower women and children. We’re working towards establishing a vocational centre where practical skills will be taught to help women earn income and support their families,” she said.

    Also lending their voices, Hajia Rasheedat Oladimeji Oye, the Erelu of Igbaja, and Queen Arinola Aroyehun, stressed the club’s inclusive vision.

    “We want every woman with the will to grow to know that she belongs here,” Queen Arinola said.

    Membership is open to all women from Igbaja or those married into the town. The club is already calling for greater participation to foster unity and progress.

    Also speaking, Queen Muibat Aribidesi expressed happiness that the event was hitch free and was successful.

    She thanked God for making it possible and granting members safe journey home from abroad and within the country.

    In his remarks, the Elese of Igbaja, His Royal Majesty Dr Ahmed Awuni Babalola Arepo III, described the initiative as a “symbol of unity and selfless service,” urging the women to remain steadfast.

    Asiwaju of Igbomina Land and Arogundade of Lagos, Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladimeji, also pledged his support and advised the group to ensure inclusivity in all their activities.

    To support the proposed vocational hub, the club appealed for financial pledges and donations from prominent personalities.

    The event featured gift presentations to female students, cultural performances, and music, highlighting Igbaja’s rich heritage and the beginning of a new era for its women.

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  • Good Governance: Gov Bago’s Political Adviser want Nigerlites to embrace democracy

    Good Governance: Gov Bago’s Political Adviser want Nigerlites to embrace democracy

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Alhaji Mohammed Nma-Kolo, the
    Special Adviser Political to Gov. Umar Bago of Niger, has urged Nigerlites to embrace and support democracy for the growth and development of the state.

    This is contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen in Minna on Thursday.

    Nma-Kolo, who is also the the Jawon Minna, commended leaders of all political parties in the state for their collaboration and support for the development of the state.

    “Together, we’re building a brighter future for our state. Thank you for embracing democracy and working towards our collective progress!

    “Happy Democracy Day to the great people of Niger State,” he said.

    Nma-Kolo also thanked the people of the state for their prayers and support to the administration of Bago to succeed and called for its sustenance.

    “I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for the overwhelming support to our dynamic Governor Umar Mohammed Bago-led government.

    “My appreciation goes to traditional leaders for their guidance and wisdom, religious leaders for their spiritual support, market men and women for their entrepreneurial spirit, students and youth groups for their energy and enthusiasm.

    “Hardworking civil servants for their dedication and service, labour unions for their contributions to our state’s development,” the statement in read in part.

    Besides, the special adviser commended the role being played by the media in the state.

    “I thank the media for their role in keeping us informed and holding us accountable,” he said.(NAN)

  • June 12: OmoBarca greets Nigerians on Democracy Day, Reaffirms Commitment to Ajeromi-Ifelodun

    June 12: OmoBarca greets Nigerians on Democracy Day, Reaffirms Commitment to Ajeromi-Ifelodun

    By Flowerbud News

    As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, has sent a powerful message of hope, reflection, and renewed commitment to democratic values, particularly to the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area in Lagos State.

    In a statement made available to the press on Wednesday, Hon. Chima described June 12 as “a day etched forever in our national consciousness as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the people’s enduring quest for freedom and justice.”

    Paying tribute to those who fought for Nigeria’s democracy, the grassroots leader urged Nigerians to remember “the power of our collective voice and the price paid by countless heroes known and unknown for the democracy we enjoy today.”

    Turning his attention to his immediate constituency, OmoBarca lauded the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun for their resilience and community spirit in the face of longstanding challenges.

    “You have stood firm in the face of adversity, and your daily contributions to our community’s progress continue to inspire hope for a better Nigeria,” he said.

    The message emphasized the values of equity, accountability, inclusive governance, and grassroots development as essential pillars of a truly democratic society. “Democracy is not merely a system of government; it is a call to service, a pledge to uplift every citizen, and a promise to protect the dignity of every life,” he stated.

    Reaffirming his dedication to the welfare of his people, Chima declared:

    “I, OmoBarca, remain steadfast in my commitment to serve you with transparency, vision, and compassion. Together, we will continue to work for an Ajeromi Ifelodun where the dreams of our youth are not deferred, where our communities are safe and prosperous, and where every voice truly matters.”

    He concluded the Democracy Day message with a call for unity, civic responsibility, and patriotic resolve, urging Nigerians to “stand as one people undaunted, united, and determined to build the nation of our dreams.”

    The message has been widely circulated among residents of Ajeromi Ifelodun, drawing commendation from local leaders, civil society groups, and community youth associations.

  • Akeem Atilola Basketball Clinic kicks-off with 105 participants

    Akeem Atilola Basketball Clinic kicks-off with 105 participants

    Akeem Atilola Basketball Clinic kicks-off with 105 participants

    By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

    The second edition of the Akeem Atilola Basketball Clinic on Wednesday kicked-off with 105 participants at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

     

    Akeem Atilola, a former Oyo State basketball player and organiser, said that the maiden edition held last year was born out of the desire to motivate the young players in the state.

     

    Atilola said that his generation had missed out on motivations, clinics, and competitions.

     

    “We didn’t get people or groups of people to motivate and gear us up in our time. We, in our generation, were just fortunate, and God helped us to soar high.

     

    “I don’t want this younger generation to miss out on what we missed out on. This is to motivate them and give them hope that they can be and achieve whatever they set their hearts to achieve,” he said.

     

    40 girls and 65 boys, comprising elite players and U-15, are participating in the game.

     

    “In this edition, we worked with some colleges in the United States to check out the campers and see if they could meet up their standard and get scholarships.

     

    “Due to some circumstances, the coach couldn’t make it down; but we would be sharing video clips of the participants with them to look inwardly, and hopefully, we can have a few lucky ones.

     

    “I would ensure that anyone picked is successfully taken. Back then, someone invested in me; that’s why I am who I am today,” he said.

     

    The ex-player said he was giving back to the society, “thus giving a win-win situation and further expending the cycle.

     

    “The clinic is not a competition but an avenue to showcase skills.

     

    “It is designed to equip aspiring players with skills, discipline, and exposure needed to excel in basketball and beyond and change their story,” he said.

     

    Atilola, a graduate of Kentucky State University, was part of the team that represented Oyo state at the 2012 National Sports Festival tagged “Eko 2012

  • Better Hospital Resources Can Stem Medical Practitioners’ Exodus – Olamitoye.

    Better Hospital Resources Can Stem Medical Practitioners’ Exodus – Olamitoye.

    Better Hospital Resources Can Stem Medical Practitioners’ Exodus – Olamitoye.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The founder of Ibadan Central Hospital, Dr Abib Olamitoye has said that providing adequate equipment and resources in Nigerian hospitals can help reduce the emigration of medical practitioners.

     

    He stated this in Ibadan, at the 40th anniversary of the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, MBBS, and Bachelor of Dental Surgery, BDS, graduating class of 1985 College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, U.I.

     

    Dr. Olamitoye who is also the Chairman of the MBBS & BDS Class of 1985 40th anniversary and reunion local organising committee, cited financial struggles as a major reason for doctors emigrating.

     

    He noted that inadequate equipment and resources in Nigerian hospitals hinder quality diagnosis and patient care.

     

    “People want better life, the origin is poor economy poorly managed financial resources, and they are needed elsewhere where they can be able to have compensation for the years and pains they have had.

     

    “When you come out as a medical practitioner, you need quality equipment and this can only be rendered by a self responsible government, when this instrument are not available you cannot make quality diagnosis.

     

    “This is another reason why people would rather go abroad where this facility are available so that the call to duty we have bearing or meaning,” Olamitoye said

     

    While speaking to journalists, the keynote speaker at the event, Dr Tony Rapu, challenged medical students to maximize different seasons of life, cultivate resilience, and be bold in the face of challenges.

     

    “In the morning of your life cultivate resilience, be strong, be enduring, be bold, be courageous and stand through.

     

    “There is nothing we can do about people who want to find purpose beyond the shores of this country.

     

    “We are not all called to travel, some are called to stay in this environment, endure the challenges and use those challenges as opportunities to make an impact,” Rapu said.

     

    Earlier, in his address, Chief Medical Director, UCH, Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, represented by Chairman Medical and Advisory Committee, Prof Olabukola Adesina, commended the class for their dedication to the noble profession of healing and serving humanity.

     

    “I commend this class for its dedication to the noble of profession of healing and serving humanity.

     

    “Your contributions to healthcare are undoubtedly improved the life’s if countless individuals.

     

    “I look forward to witnessing the continued impact of this class collective expertise and passion.

     

    “I have to say that UCH is ever ready to partner with this eminent class as well as other classes in delivery of the hospital mandat of training, research and clinical services,” Otegbayo stated.

     

    Also, the Provost, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Professor Temidayo Ogundiran, who was represented by the Deputy Provost, Prof Samuel Olaleye, praised the class for their contributions to healthcare and society

     

    “Beyond these specific achievements, your class has collectively contributed to the betterment of society in countless ways.

     

    “You have served as healthcare leaders during crises, advocates for health equity, champions of public health initiatives, mentors to younger professionals, and selfless donors towards improving the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan.

     

    “Your diverse career paths have demonstrated the versatility and broad applicability of the education you received in the College of Medicine,” Ogundiran said.(NAN)