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Microsoft Pledges $1M for AI Training of One Million Nigerians

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Microsoft Pledges $1M for AI Training of One Million Nigerians

Over the next three years, Microsoft, a global leader in technology, plans to contribute $1 million (about ₦1.6 billion) to improve Nigerians’ artificial intelligence (AI) skills.

Ola Williams, Microsoft Nigeria & Ghana’s country manager, and Lillian Barnard, Microsoft Africa president, reportedly made the news during the ongoing Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos, Nigeria.

Williams stressed that Microsoft’s goal of empowering people and organizations around the world is in line with this strategy.

One of the ways we are implementing this purpose is through this announcement. I am ecstatic. With great pleasure, I declare that Microsoft Nigeria would invest $1 million over the next two years to empower one million Nigerians,” she said.

Williams went on to emphasize the importance of this investment, pointing out that it will give Nigerians the know-how to use AI not just for consumer use but also for solution development and long-term company establishment.

“This represents a substantial investment in our endeavors to guarantee that everyone has access to the necessary skills to not only utilize AI, but also to develop AI-based solutions and businesses that continue to provide Nigerians with a stable source of income,” she continued.

Additionally, Williams conveyed gratitude for Microsoft’s dedication to Nigeria by saying: “Thank you, Microsoft, for this great investment.” The fact is that Microsoft has more than just a business stake in Nigeria. Our goal is to favorably affect both the economy and people’s lives.

According to Techeconomy, the AI Skill Development Program will serve government officials, companies, and startups.

Speaking about Microsoft’s longstanding involvement in Africa, Lillian Barnard emphasized how the company’s cohesive strategy has created new opportunities for partners on the continent.

Coming to a place like Nigeria to communicate this message is such a huge responsibility. Microsoft’s commitment on the Continent includes this.

Skills change along with technology. These days, AI positions make up the majority of jobs, but there aren’t enough people to fill them. According to Barnard, “we think this initiative is such a platform to upskill the people.”

Breaking: Court Rules Against Anyanwu’s Attempt to Block PDP Ouster

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Breaking: Court Rules Against Anyanwu’s Attempt to Block PDP Ouster

PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu asked the Federal High Court in Abuja’s Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from removing him as the party’s secretary, but the court refused his appeal.
Rather than that, the judge told Anyanwu to call INEC and the other defendants in his new case so that their opinions could be heard.
Anyanwu reportedly filed an ex-parte suit with the Federal High Court, requesting a ruling that would forbid INEC or its agents from receiving or acting upon any written submissions or correspondence from the PDP until he signed them.
Anyanwu also asked Justice Ekwo to restrict Ambassador Umar Illiya Damagun from delivering any written submissions, papers, or letters to INEC unless they were signed by him, according to the motion submitted by his attorney, K.C.O. Njemanze (SAN).

Read Also: 15years After, CSO Seeks Probe Report, Prosecution of Asabe Waziri Over Death Of Pregnant Woman

In a brief order, Justice Ekwo accepted that Anyanwu’s claims had created a case of urgency after taking into account the plaintiff’s grounds.

But the judge rejected the plaintiff’s ex-parte application, choosing instead to hear arguments from the defendants before making any decisions.

He therefore instructed Anyanwu to inform Damagun and INEC about the new litigation so that they might make an appearance in court and make their case.

On February 24, Justice Ekwo set a hearing date and gave the plaintiff instructions to serve the two defendants with the required court documents.

15years After, CSO Seeks Probe Report, Prosecution of Asabe Waziri Over Death Of Pregnant Woman

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15years After, CSO Seeks Probe Report, Prosecution of Asabe Waziri Over Death Of Pregnant Woman

A civil society organisation, Justice and Equality For All Movement has staged a peaceful protest to the Federal High Court, Abuja, to demand the release of a probe report and prosecution of Ms Asabe Waziri, over the death of a pregnant woman, Mrs Shitua Aso.

The movement, led by Barrister Moses, Aham Akano, said the incident which took place in 2010 cannot be statue barred.

He said it’s a criminal matter amd the long arm of the law is always ready to catch up with anyone that runs foul of the law.

We are here to call on the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun to release an investigative report of the murder allegedly committed by one Asabe Waziri in 2011.

“According to the letter of demand for the report written to the IGP, we are asking the him to release its investigative report on the matter.

“We have as long asked the court to order the IGP to release police report on the matter.

“Apart from being in court, we also want to bring the attention of the public to this because for 15years, family of the late Shitua Aso, who was pregnant at the time of the! Incident needs justice.

“We are in court to ensure the law takes its course and to get justice for the late pregnant woman, Shitua Aso. We are in court to follow the legal way to mandate the police to release its investigative report which was carried out 15years ago. We are saying justice must be done because an injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

“Asabe Waziri should not frustrate the process of the court with her application to join in the matter. What we need is justice for late Shitua Aso, who was pregnant at the time of her death.

“Nigerias are crying, the world is crying amd all we want is justice. The case is not statue bar, we are crying for justice for the late pregnant woman”.

In May 2024, Global Integrity Crusade Network, GICN, also wrote the IGP, asking for the report saying the investigation in the matter must not be swept under the carpet.

The petition, signed by the Publicity Secretary of GICN, Leticia Omeiza, stated that failure of the police to make public the report, GICN shall institute an action in court to compel the IGP to release the report.

According to GICN, the case should be re-open for the family of the victim to get justice.

Parts of the petition reads, “Research took us to the National Library of Nigeria where we uncovered a story tagged “Woman hit with car by opponent” on Page 57 of the Sunday Trust newspaper dated 30th May. 2010. Certified True Copy (CTC) of the newspaper is attached as APPENDIX 1.

According to the story, a woman named Mrs. Shitua Aso had accompanied her sister Mrs. Nonto Ogunyinka to the FCT Police Command, Garki 2, Abuja in a controversy involving Mrs. Ogunyinka and one Miss Asabe Waziri. It was reported that Police had settled the dispute between Mrs. Ogunyinka and Miss Asabe Waziri, whereupon both women left with the intention of going to their respective houses but exchanged unpleasant remarks along the stairway.

Nigerian Queue at MRS Stations After Dangote vs NNPC Fuel Comparison Goes Viral

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Nigerian Queue at MRS Stations After Dangote vs NNPC Fuel Comparison Goes Viral

Long lines of Nigerians have been observed at MRS gas stations in Lagos State following the viral video that contrasted the cost and lifespan of Dangote fuel with that of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The recording implied that the lines were not caused by a shortage but rather were triggered by the viral comparative video. The video, which started making the rounds on social media on Tuesday, showed an increasing number of customers swarming the MRS stations.
Olatunde Shobajo, a tech content creator who goes by Valor Reviews, performed an experiment in the video by contrasting petrol bought from NNPC and MRS filling stations, which are associated with Dangote Refinery.
When Shobajo tested two new generators, the one powered by NNPC gasoline only operated for 17 minutes and 51 seconds, but the one powered by MRS gasoline ran for 30 minutes and 51 seconds—13 minutes longer—showing that Dangote’s fuel performed better.

Some Nigerians claim that Dangote’s entry into the petroleum market threatens NNPC’s long-standing monopoly, which is why the video has sparked controversy.

As both fuels came from the Dangote refinery, NNPC spokesperson Olufemi Soneye clarified in response to the film that the comparison was inaccurate.

The Dangote Refinery, a strategic partner in supporting local production and energy security, provides a large portion of the Premium Motor Spirit sold at NNPC retail outlets in Lagos, where this misleading film was produced, he added.

“Dangote Refinery guarantees the quality of petroleum products supplied to our consumers by adhering to strict industry standards,” the statement went on to say.

The assertions in the viral video were also categorically denied by the NNPC, which called them “baseless” and the product of “unverified and amateur research.”

Read Also: ‘This Is All Distraction,’ Says Doherty as He Condemns DSS Invasion of Lagos House

The business made it clear that disseminating misleading information would not be tolerated and that individuals who do so would face legal repercussions.

The film was “designed to undermine our operations and mislead Nigerians,” according to NNPC Ltd., which also pledged to take the appropriate legal action to safeguard its reputation.

‘This Is All Distraction,’ Says Doherty as He Condemns DSS Invasion of Lagos House

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‘This Is All Distraction,’ Says Doherty as He Condemns DSS Invasion of Lagos House

The invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by Department of State Services (DSS) officials has been denounced by Funso Doherty, a former African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for governor of Lagos State.
Some have characterized the DSS personnel’s Monday invasion of the Lagos House as an attempt to frighten Speaker Mojisola Meranda.
Doherty claimed the invasion was pointless and a diversion from the state’s governance in an interview with News Central on Tuesday.

The former speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, was persuaded by the chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to let the legal system do its thing.
As far as we can tell, the lawmakers have assembled and replaced Speaker Mudashiru Obasa with Mojisola Miranda. According to the speaker (Obasa), the procedure was incorrect, and he has filed a lawsuit. That’s okay. At the end of the day, everything will be resolved because the House and the legal system will both continue to do their jobs.

The introduction of the security forces is a really concerning development because it distances us from the democratic process in a significant sense. In order for us to condemn, we need to make sure it doesn’t happen. Return to a governance mechanism that operates as usual. allow the House sit, and allow Mojisola, the current Speaker, take the lead. “It’s okay if the courts determine that things should be different,” he remarked.

Read Also: Akinyemi on Independence: Why Britain Overlooked Azikiwe, Awolowo, and Others

Lagos’ political elite was urged by the former governorship candidate to concentrate on enhancing the quality of life for the state’s citizens.

There are numerous issues that lawmakers ought to be concentrating on. I just arrived here this morning. We had to take a detour via Agege Motor Road since a container dropped on the road I should have used. The condition of that road is really amazing, and it serves as a major route to the state capital. There are simply too many things for these folks to be concerned about.

All of this is a diversion. Ultimately, when people reflect on their lives and ask themselves, “Is my life better because of all this government activity, all this government expenditure, all of this hullabaloo in the public space, year after year, democratic process through democratic process, election cycle through election cycle?” it is not surprising that people become disillusioned and disengaged from the political process. And that is evident from the voter turnout figures,” he said.

Akinyemi on Independence: Why Britain Overlooked Azikiwe, Awolowo, and Others

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Akinyemi on Independence: Why Britain Overlooked Azikiwe, Awolowo, and Others

Bolaji Akinyemi, Nigeria’s former foreign minister, revealed that the British gave authority to a group of persons they could manage in 1960.
Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe, and others like Michael Okpara were reportedly shunned by the British because they wished to maintain control of the nation after independence, according to Professor Akinyemi.
“There has always been a grand plan to destabilize Nigeria,” the former minister said in an interview with Arise News on Monday.

Speaking about the claim that the US Agency for International Development (USAID) provided funding to the terrorist group Boko Haram, he made this revelation.
Before we ever gained our independence, Nigeria was a target, so the British even planned to transfer authority to the least developed region of the country and chose an elite they believed they could control. That was even before to our independence.

Not the Azikiwes, Awolowos, Mbadiwes, or Okparas were singled out because the British knew they couldn’t control them, and they had already determined in 1945 who they would cede power to.

In that sense, when Jawaharlal Nehru’s India was able to break free from their rule, they learned their lesson. They learnt their lesson, and going forward, if any of their colonies get independence, they must make sure that the person they are entrusting authority to is someone they can manage so they can maintain control over those nations. Nigeria was one such country, he added.

Additionally, the former minister revealed that he learned during a conference in Washington that the developed world did not want a superpower to emerge from black nations.

In my opinion, they are attempting to destabilize Nigeria by utilizing any agency they can establish or bring about. The idea that no nation in the global north wants a black nation to become a powerhouse because it will impact their own racial dilemma was brought up at a conference I once attended in Washington. It was Kwame Nkrumah’s experience. Remember Mandela? Until Nigeria succeeds, no nation with a Black population would succeed in our world, he declared.

Breaking: PANDEF Leader Edwin Clark is Dead

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Breaking: PANDEF Leader Edwin Clark is Dead

Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the renowned Nigerian statesman and head of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), died at the age of 97.

In a statement signed by Mr. Penawei Clark for the children and Prof. C. C. Clark for the family, Clark’s passing was announced.

Clark died on Monday, February 17, 2025, the announcement said.

Read Also: Osun LG Crisis: IGP Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice

“The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, February 17, 2025,” the statement says.

“Your prayers are greatly appreciated at this time by the family.” The family will make more announcements later.

Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, a pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization head and elder statesman, was reported deceased a few days prior to the most recent catastrophe.

Adebanjo passed away at the age of 96 on Friday morning.

Osun LG Crisis: IGP Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice

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Osun LG Crisis: IGP Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice

Following the political crisis that broke out in the early hours of Monday, Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, has directed the tactical squad to bring peace back to Osun State.
The IGP declared that he would not put up with anarchy, lawlessness, or hooliganism of any kind and that anyone responsible for the chaos during the crisis will face consequences.
He issued the warning in a statement released by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the force spokesperson, on Monday.

“The Nigeria Police Force has strongly condemned the incidents that have disrupted peace and safety in Osun State and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice in response to the ongoing violence in the state,” the statement said.The tranquility had been disturbed by these violent acts, which resulted in property damage and the tragic death of innocent people.

“In order to strengthen security and restore law and order, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has taken decisive action by directing the deployment of additional tactical units to Osun State.

The police acknowledge that violence harms people’ well-being and erodes the democratic process. As a result, they pledge to find and prosecute those who perpetrate these crimes and hold them accountable for their actions.

Since the Force will not put up with any acts of lawlessness, hooliganism, or anarchy in the state, the IGP sends a strong warning to anyone threatening Osun State’s peace and stability.

“Those who commit these crimes will be apprehended and made to pay for their unjustified and unfortunate actions.” While normalcy is being restored, citizens must maintain their composure.

Read Also: Political Tension in Lagos: ‘Baba Unhappy with Obasa’s Removal’

“Osun leaders, stakeholders, and indigenous people are now encouraged to refrain from violence and carry on with their lawful enterprises.

“The judiciary continues to be the final arbiter of all electoral disputes, and political actors must respect and follow its decisions in order to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law.”

“Citizens are encouraged to conduct themselves legally. The Force reaffirms its resolve to crack down on any violent actors who are determined to cause chaos and a breakdown of law and order wherever in the nation.

“The state of affairs in Osun will be closely watched, and precautions will be taken to guarantee a secure environment for all inhabitants.”

Political Tension in Lagos: ‘Baba Unhappy with Obasa’s Removal’

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Political Tension in Lagos: ‘Baba Unhappy with Obasa’s Removal’

The long-running impasse between 32 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly and former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa might soon be settled by political action.
President Bola Tinubu did not support Obasa’s impeachment on January 13, 2025, according to a source close to the Assembly who talked to BusinessDay on condition of anonymity.
After Obasa was impeached and Mojisola Meranda was elected as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, it was understood that the assembly was involved in a leadership battle.

Legislative employees protested after the Speaker’s office was shut by Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Police officers on Monday, intensifying the situation.

“They disregarded Baba,” the insider stated in reference to the issue. They didn’t take him with them. Baba is upset because Obasa was taken away and wants him back.

“Observe what Obasa is causing to occur. The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) members are split among themselves, the House is divided, and discord is evident everywhere. This is bad for everyone. Additionally, there was no need for the Department of State Services (DSS) to invade the Assembly. The DSS responded that they were invited, but several members criticized their presence. No one is aware of the truth.

Concerned about the development, the source stated that it might have a negative effect on the Assembly’s and the executive arm’s operations.

“The general governance of Lagos State may suffer as a result of what is occurring. The House has adjourned sine die, for example. Will the executive’s work be unaffected by that? There is never a good crisis in any society. It has an impact on growth. There will be stopped progress if there is no peace.

Read Also: Sacrifices of Our Heroes Past Shall Not Be in Vain: Okanga Immortalizes Late Och’Idoma

“In the end, Tinubu is the one who will find a solution. “Everyone in the House of Assembly is a member of the same political family, after all,” the insider stated.

Sacrifices of Our Heroes Past Shall Not Be in Vain: Okanga Immortalizes Late Och’Idoma

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Sacrifices of Our Heroes Past Shall Not Be in Vain: Okanga Immortalizes Late Och’Idoma

Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, also known as Okanga 1 of Agila, has taken a remarkable step to immortalize the late Och’Idoma IV, HRM Agabaidu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, in a heartfelt tribute to a legendary leader. This admirable act not only shows respect but also demonstrates Hon. Agbese’s unwavering dedication to upholding the traditions of notable Idoma leaders. The sacrifices made by our heroes in the past will not go unappreciated thanks to this initiative.

Honoring a Visionary Leader

The late Och’Idoma IV was an exceptional traditional ruler who dedicated his life to the service of the Idoma people. His leadership was characterized by wisdom, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to unity and progress. Under his reign, the Idoma Kingdom witnessed peace and cultural advancement, making him a revered icon whose memory will continue to inspire generations. Recognizing this, Okanga’s decision to name the Primary Healthcare Center in Efekwo after him is a fitting tribute to his immense contributions.

A Legacy of Development: The Primary Healthcare Center in Efekwo

One of the major concerns of any progressive leader is the well-being of his people, and Hon. Philip Agbese has once again demonstrated his unwavering dedication to community development. The state-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Center in Efekwo, now named in honor of HRM Agabaidu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, is a monument of hope and progress.

This facility provides essential medical services to the people of Efekwo and the entire Enone Constituency. With a standard maternity clinic, separate male and female wards, and modern medical equipment, the center ensures that quality healthcare is accessible to all. In addition to the medical facility, Okanga has provided a 162-meter depth borehole, ensuring a steady water supply for the clinic, a fundamental necessity for effective healthcare delivery.

Furthermore, the maternity clinic has been fully equipped with medical supplies and advanced healthcare tools worth approximately N100,000,000.00. This substantial investment underscores Hon. Agbese’s unparalleled dedication to the health and well-being of his people.

The Significance of the FMC Outstation to Enone Constituency

The establishment of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Outstation in Enone has far-reaching benefits that will transform healthcare access and quality within the region.

Key Benefits of the FMC Outstation

  1. Convenience – Bringing medical services closer to the people, eliminating long-distance travel for essential healthcare.
  2. Timely Medical Intervention – Enabling quick responses to medical emergencies, ultimately saving lives.
  3. Specialized Medical Services – Providing access to maternal care, surgical procedures, laboratory testing, and child healthcare.
  4. Quality Healthcare Delivery – Ensuring healthcare services meet national and international standards.
  5. Job Creation – Creating employment opportunities for medical professionals, administrative staff, and support workers.
  6. Economic Growth – Attracting pharmacies, medical supply stores, and other businesses, boosting the local economy.
  7. Community Engagement – Encouraging health education, outreach programs, and awareness campaigns.
  8. Improved Health Outcomes – Reducing mortality and morbidity rates through accessible and efficient healthcare services.
  9. Sustainable Development – Strengthening healthcare infrastructure for long-term community benefits.

With this FMC Outstation, Hon. Agbese has cemented his name in the history of Enone as a leader who prioritizes the health and prosperity of his people.

Preserving the Idoma Legacy: Leadership and Progress

The Idoma people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in leadership, tradition, and communal progress. The Och’Idoma title is a symbol of authority and honor, reserved for leaders who champion the cause of their people. HRM Agabaidu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa was a true embodiment of these values, and immortalizing his name through this remarkable project is a tribute to his life of service.

Hon. Philip Agbese’s initiative sends a strong message that great leaders should be celebrated, and their contributions must be preserved for future generations. This gesture of honor and development serves as a reminder that true leadership is about service, sacrifice, and commitment to progress.

A Call for Unity and Progress

As the people of Enone, we must rally behind progressive leadership that is dedicated to continuity and transformation. Hon. Philip Agbese has exemplified what it means to be a true servant of the people. His leadership philosophy aligns with the motto of Okanga 12 Disciples: “Continuity and Progress”, which calls for a collaborative effort towards sustainable development.

The mission statement 4+4=8 signifies a commitment to a long-term vision that will ensure that Enone remains a beacon of development. It is our collective responsibility to support such positive initiatives and ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes past shall never be in vain.

Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese has once again proven that leadership is about service and impact. By immortalizing the late Och’Idoma IV through the establishment of a modern healthcare facility, he has not only honored a great leader but has also secured a healthier and brighter future for his people.

As we continue to embrace progress, let us remember that it takes the right leadership, vision, and commitment to build a society that values its heroes and prioritizes the well-being of its people.

May Enone flourish under the visionary leadership of Hon. Philip Agbese.

Okanga 12 Disciples
Motto: Continuity and Progress
Mission: 4+4=8

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