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Author: Toyibat Ajose

  • AfDB to establish $100million Investment Bank for Nigerian Youths

    AfDB to establish $100million Investment Bank for Nigerian Youths

    The African Development Bank (AfDB) is set to launch a Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank in Nigeria, a major initiative aimed at supporting the country’s youth. AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina announced this on Friday in Abuja during the 90th Birthday Lecture of former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon.

    “I am pleased to announce that just three days ago, the AfDB’s board of directors approved $100 million for the creation of the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank for Nigeria,” Adesina said.

    This initiative highlights the AfDB’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians, whom Adesina views as essential to the nation’s development. The bank will provide technical support, business incubation, and funding through equity, quasi-equity, and other financial instruments to help young entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

    Speaking before an audience that included former President Olusegun Obasanjo, governors, ministers, and other prominent figures, Adesina described this as “a new dawn for Nigeria.”

    However, he expressed concern over the increasing trend of young Nigerians emigrating in what is locally referred to as “japa,” warning that this mass migration could undermine Nigeria’s economic ambitions.

    “The speed at which Nigerians are leaving the country, driven by harsh economic conditions, poses a risk to Nigeria’s quest for economic rejuvenation and global competitiveness,” Adesina said. He stressed that Nigeria must capitalize on the digital revolution to reverse this trend, pointing out that five of Africa’s top seven fintech unicorns are Nigerian.

    “This shows the immense potential we have to lead on the global stage,” he added.

    Adesina emphasized that the future of Nigeria’s youth is tied to the country’s own growth. “I don’t believe the future of Nigeria’s youth lies in Europe, America, or anywhere else. It lies here in Nigeria, with equitable growth and job creation.”

    In his tribute to Yakubu Gowon, Adesina praised the former leader as an “exemplary Nigerian and African leader,” recognizing the many milestones achieved during his time in office from 1966 to 1975.

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also lauded Gowon, calling the celebration of his 90th birthday a national event. “This is a national celebration, and you deserve to be celebrated while you are still alive,” Obasanjo said.

    “I see a gathering of distinguished men and women here, many of whom were eyewitnesses to your time in government and your service in the army. By the grace of God, you have reached 90, and we are all grateful for that,” Obasanjo concluded.

  • [FOODIES CORNER] Best Foods to improve male fertility; foods to avoid

    [FOODIES CORNER] Best Foods to improve male fertility; foods to avoid

    Eating healthier foods can boost sperm count, while indulging in less nutritious options might lower it.

    Foods to Increase Sperm Count

    If you and your partner are trying to conceive, improving his diet could help increase your chances. A healthy diet benefits both of you, but certain foods may specifically improve sperm count and quality, making conception easier. Here are some foods he should incorporate into his diet:

    Oysters

    Oysters are rich in zinc, which may boost semen volume and sperm motility. If oysters aren’t his favorite, zinc is also found in beef, poultry, dairy, nuts, eggs, whole grains, and beans. A daily multivitamin can help ensure he’s getting enough zinc.

    Fruits and Vegetables

    Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries and spinach, may protect sperm from cellular damage, improving their strength and speed. Vitamins E and C might also enhance sperm count and movement. Find vitamin E in avocados, mangoes, and leafy greens, and vitamin C in oranges, tomatoes, and grapefruit. Folate-rich foods, like beans and many fruits, may help prevent chromosomal abnormalities in sperm. A great all-around choice is sweet potatoes, which are packed with vitamins C, E, and folate.

    Nuts

    Research suggests that nuts may improve sperm quality and function, especially walnuts, which are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts are other antioxidant-rich options. He should stick to a small serving size and avoid sugar-coated varieties.

    Seeds

    Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and omega-3s, both of which may enhance sperm quality. Flaxseed, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds are also great sources of omega-3s and antioxidants that support sperm health.

    Pomegranate Juice

    Pomegranate juice, full of antioxidants, has been linked to improved sperm quality in animal studies. While human studies are still ongoing, swapping pomegranate juice for his usual OJ or adding it to smoothies could help.

    Fatty Fish

    Men with higher fertility tend to have more omega-3 fatty acids in their sperm. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and herring are great sources. Omega-3s also improve blood flow to the genitals, potentially enhancing performance in the bedroom.

    Maca Root

    Maca root, traditionally used to boost libido, may also increase sperm concentration and motility. He can add maca powder to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods for a fertility boost.

    Foods to Avoid for Male Fertility

    Just as some foods can boost fertility, others may hinder it. Here are some he should cut back on:

    Junk Food

    Fatty, fried, and sugary foods can negatively impact sperm quality. Studies suggest that sweetened snacks and beverages, like soda, may reduce sperm quality.

    High-Mercury Fish

    Fish high in mercury, like swordfish and shark, have been linked to infertility. Instead, he should opt for lower-mercury options like salmon or zinc-rich shellfish.

    Caffeinated Drinks and Alcohol

    Excessive caffeine and alcohol can lower sperm count. Limiting caffeine to two cups of coffee per day and moderating alcohol intake is recommended.

    Soy

    Some research suggests that diets high in soy may lower sperm concentration. He may want to avoid tofu, soy milk, and tempeh while trying to conceive.

    High-Fat Dairy

    Full-fat dairy foods can negatively affect sperm count and motility. Low-fat or skim milk, along with dairy alternatives like almond milk, are better choices.

    Processed Meats

    Diets rich in processed red meats, such as bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats, are associated with lower sperm quality. Healthier alternatives include chicken breast, lean beef, and pork. In short, paying attention to his diet can play a key role in boosting your chances of conceiving. Making healthy swaps and adding fertility-friendly foods can help improve his sperm health and bring you closer to your goal of starting a family.
  • Chelsea, Lyon win easily in Women’s Champions League

    Chelsea, Lyon win easily in Women’s Champions League

    Chelsea moved to the top of their Women’s Champions League group with a 3-1 victory over Twente on Thursday, while record eight-time winners Lyon triumphed against Wolfsburg.

    Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea, still in pursuit of their first Champions League title after reaching four semi-finals and a final since 2018, secured their second win in Group B, following their victory over Real Madrid in the opener.

    The reigning five-time English champions took an early lead through rising star Agnes Beever-Jones, who scored her first goal in the competition.

    Japanese forward Maika Hamano then doubled their advantage with a long-range strike that caught Twente’s goalkeeper, Olivia Clark, off her line.

    Chelsea extended their lead in the second half with Guro Reiten converting a penalty, before Nikee van Dijk netted a consolation goal for Twente.

    Chelsea have enjoyed a strong start to their first season under new management, following the departure of long-serving coach Emma Hayes, who is now the manager of the United States national team. They have also won their first three Women’s Super League matches.

    Earlier in the day, Real Madrid bounced back from their loss to Chelsea by thrashing Celtic 4-0.

    Scotland international Caroline Weir opened the scoring for Real Madrid with a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box. It took until the 72nd minute for Signe Bruun to head in the second goal, followed by a long-range lob from substitute Caroline Moller for the third. Colombian star Linda Caicedo sealed the win with a penalty.

    Real Madrid, aiming to avoid a third consecutive group-stage exit, now sit in second place, above Twente on goal difference.

    Meanwhile, Lyon made it two wins from two in Group A with a 2-0 victory over two-time champions Wolfsburg.

    French centre-back Wendie Renard opened the scoring in the eighth minute, and US Olympic gold medallist Lindsey Horan added a second from the penalty spot in the second half.

    Last season’s runners-up Lyon are currently behind Roma in the standings on goal difference, with a trip to face the Italian side in November.

    Roma continued their excellent form with a 6-1 win over tournament debutants Galatasaray in Istanbul, with six different players on the scoresheet.

  • Bamise’s Murder: BRT driver denies raping victim

    Bamise’s Murder: BRT driver denies raping victim

    The Lagos State Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, Andrew Nice Ominikoron, who is on trial for the rape and murder of his passenger, Bamise Ayanwola, has denied the charges, instead blaming three others for the crime.

    Ominikoron, aged 47, gave evidence on Thursday as he opened his defence before Justice Sherifat Sonaike of the Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.

    Led by his counsel, Abayomi Omotubora, the defendant stated that he neither raped nor killed the 22-year-old fashion designer, Bamise Ayanwola. Instead, he claimed that three male passengers who boarded his bus after official hours raped her and threw her out of the vehicle.

    In March 2022, Ominikoron was charged by the Lagos State Government with four counts, including rape, conspiracy, sexual assault, and murder. The prosecution alleged that the murder occurred on 26 February 2022, at about 7pm near the Lekki-Ajah Conservation Expressway. Ominikoron, however, pleaded not guilty.

    Testifying, Ominikoron admitted that he had picked up Bamise at the Chevron bus stop, even though it was after his official working hours. He explained that it was common for drivers to pick up passengers after hours, allowing them to collect cash fares which they kept for themselves, as their salary was insufficient.

    He added that after Bamise boarded, three male passengers got on at Agungi bus stop. Later, one of them approached him with a gun and ordered him to cooperate. Ominikoron claimed the men then dragged Bamise, raped her, and threw her off the bus before they disembarked.

    The defendant said that after continuing his journey to Oshodi, he parked the bus and went home. He fled to Ogun State when he heard that Bamise was missing, fearing repercussions from his employers. He was later arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS).

    Ominikoron also denied knowledge of Bamise’s voice notes to her friend, expressing concerns about the other passengers. He further denied sexually assaulting two other women who had accused him, claiming he was never questioned about them during police custody. He admitted to dating one of the women but said they had broken up.

    Justice Sonaike expressed frustration with the slow pace of the trial, noting that the frequent adjournments were at the request of the defence. The case was adjourned until Monday, 21 October 2024, for further examination of the defendant. The prosecution had closed its case in November 2023.

  • Jonathan warns judiciary not to get carried away by Political antics

    Jonathan warns judiciary not to get carried away by Political antics

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concern over Nigeria’s escalating political crisis, attributing the situation to court rulings, which he said are “upending the principles of justice.”

    Speaking at the 67th birthday celebration and launch of 50 books by renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Professor Mike Ozekhome, Jonathan also cautioned judges against being influenced by political manoeuvres.

    Addressing the event, which he co-chaired with former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Jonathan highlighted that recent judicial decisions in political cases have caused turmoil in the country. He specifically referenced a ruling that allowed a ward chairman to dismiss a national chairman of a political party, a situation he found troubling.

    He called on the Supreme Court to review the decision, warning that such rulings pose a risk to the stability of the nation’s political landscape.

    Jonathan also praised Ozekhome, describing him as a remarkable individual with exceptional talents and insight to make a difference.

    Meanwhile, Obasanjo hinted that he had much to share but indicated that the time was not yet appropriate for him to speak in detail. He commended Ozekhome as an exceptional figure who passionately advocates for societal and legal reform.

    Former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Wole Olanipekun, who reviewed Ozekhome’s 50 books, described him as a scholar of politics and law, a human rights advocate, and a political commentator with diverse perspectives on various issues.

    Additionally, Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, encouraged Ozekhome to continue his efforts towards creating a better society.

  • INEC sets November 2025 for Anambra Governorship Poll

    INEC sets November 2025 for Anambra Governorship Poll

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the Anambra governorship election for 8th November 2025.

    INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu announced this on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with political parties.

    “As you are aware, the last governorship election in Anambra State was held on 6th November 2021,” Yakubu said. “With the passage of time, the next governorship election is due next year. Consequently, the Commission has approved that the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election will take place on Saturday, 8th November 2025.”

    He added that a formal notice of the election will be published on 13th November 2024.

    Political parties are expected to hold their primaries between 20th March 2025 and 10th April 2025, according to the INEC chairman.

    “The candidate nomination portal will open at 9:00 am on 18th April 2025 and close at 6:00 pm on 12th May 2025,” he stated. “The final list of candidates will be published on 9th June 2025. Political parties may begin their public campaigns on 11th June 2025, which will end at midnight on Thursday, 6th November 2025.”

    He further mentioned that the detailed Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election would be uploaded to INEC’s website and social media platforms, with hard copies distributed shortly.

    Meanwhile, INEC has commenced the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) for the upcoming Ondo State governorship election next month.

    “The Commission is pleased to inform the public that the collection of PVCs from the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise has begun in Ondo State,” he said.

    “For the next five days (17th – 21st October 2024), voters can collect their cards at each of the 203 wards across the State. After that, the cards will be available for collection at our 18 Local Government Area offices for one week (23rd – 29th October 2024). Collection centres will be open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.”

  • Nigeria’s Aviation Compliance score now 75%, removed from watch list – Keyamo

    Nigeria’s Aviation Compliance score now 75%, removed from watch list – Keyamo

    Nigeria’s global aviation compliance score has improved significantly following the signing of the Administrative Rules governing the repossession of aircraft by creditors and lessors, known as the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA).

    This was revealed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the commissioning of the Juhi-2 Aviation Fuel Depot at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

    The minister attributed the recent progress to actions taken by the government, including the signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction, which boosted Nigeria’s rating from 49% to 70.5% in just one month.

    The new rating, which places Nigeria in the ‘high category’, was announced on Wednesday by the Aviation Working Group (AWG), according to a statement by the minister’s special adviser, Tunde Moshood.

    This development officially marks Nigeria’s removal from the AWG’s watch list of non-compliant countries. The AWG confirmed to Keyamo that the signing of the IDERA completes Nigeria’s compliance process, unlocking numerous opportunities for the country’s aviation industry.

    This milestone is expected to open new doors for aircraft financing and dry-leasing for Nigerian airline operators, providing greater access to global aircraft leasing markets. The resulting impact is anticipated to improve flight regularity, expand serviced routes, and lead to more competitive ticket prices, ultimately benefiting the Nigerian public.

  • I earn N14million every month as a Senator – Orji Kalu

    I earn N14million every month as a Senator – Orji Kalu

    The lawmaker representing Abia North in the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu, has revealed that he earns a total of ₦14 million per month as a Senator.

    Speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, the Senator dismissed the widespread belief that lawmakers are living in luxury while ordinary Nigerians struggle in poverty.

    “I earn ₦14 million for everything in a month. That includes everything—overheads, staff salaries, everything,” Uzor Kalu explained.

    The former governor of Abia State argued that the ₦14 million is insufficient to cover expenses such as fuel for travelling to his constituency and maintaining his constituency office, among other responsibilities.

    No official vehicles for lawmakers
    One of the most controversial issues frequently raised about the National Assembly is the perception that lawmakers receive luxury cars as official vehicles.

    However, Senator Uzor Kalu refuted these claims, stating that only National Assembly committees receive vehicles, not individual lawmakers.

    “I am in the Senate, and many things are said about the Senators. I sit quietly and listen, but most of these things are untrue. What I do know is that committees get vehicles; no lawmaker is given any vehicle,” he clarified.

     Economic challenges in Nigeria
    Addressing the economic difficulties facing the country, Senator Uzor Kalu stated that Nigeria is not alone in grappling with these challenges, attributing some of the issues to the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He added that the reason other countries have moved on more effectively is due to their long-standing robust economies.

    According to him, President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of the country’s economic instability and is taking steps to address these challenges.

    “The President himself knows that Nigerians are suffering and hungry. He’s a man of the people and understands the situation on the ground.

    “Some nights, the President drives around Abuja to see what’s really happening,” Kalu said.

  • Israel Kills Hamas Chief Sinwar in Gaza

    Israel Kills Hamas Chief Sinwar in Gaza

    Israel announced on Thursday the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind behind the 7 October attack, calling his death a “major blow” to the Palestinian group it has been fighting for over a year.

    The Israeli military stated that “after a year-long pursuit,” troops “eliminated Yahya Sinwar, the leader of the Hamas terrorist organisation, during an operation in the southern Gaza Strip” on Wednesday. Hamas has not confirmed his death.

    People were seen celebrating in Jerusalem, waving Israeli flags, following the news of Sinwar’s death. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked, “Today, evil has suffered a major blow,” but added that the war was “not yet over,” and described Sinwar’s death as a significant milestone in the battle against Hamas.

    Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz described Sinwar as a “mass murderer” responsible for the 7 October massacre, while President Isaac Herzog praised the killing of the militant leader behind “terrible acts of terrorism.” Israel had been hunting Sinwar since the Gaza war began, accusing him of orchestrating the deadliest attack in the country’s history.

    Sinwar, who rose through the ranks of Hamas to become its leader in Gaza and later its overall head after the death of Ismail Haniyeh in July, was a key figure in Hamas’s operations. His death comes weeks after Israel assassinated Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah during a strike in Lebanon, where Israel has also been engaged in conflict since September.

    The death of Sinwar could deal a significant blow to Hamas, which has been severely weakened over the course of the Gaza war. U.S. President Joe Biden, whose administration is a major arms supplier to Israel, stated, “This is a good day for Israel, for the United States, and for the world,” and expressed hope for a post-Hamas future in Gaza, along with the possibility of a political settlement benefiting both Israelis and Palestinians.

    Israeli military chief Herzi Halevi vowed to continue pursuing the terrorists responsible for the 7 October attack and securing the release of hostages taken by Hamas. According to Israeli data, the attack resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, while Israel’s retaliatory strikes in Gaza have claimed 42,438 lives, the majority of whom were civilians, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

    Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to defeating Hamas and freeing the 97 remaining hostages, including 34 whom Israeli officials believe are dead.

  • Shettima woos Investors to Nigeria’s growing Business Climate

    Shettima woos Investors to Nigeria’s growing Business Climate

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on global investors to capitalize on Nigeria’s expanding investment opportunities. He made this appeal during a business meeting with Swedish companies in Stockholm, Sweden, as part of his two-day visit to the Nordic country.

    Shettima emphasized that the Nigerian government has implemented bold reforms aimed at restructuring the economy for sustainable growth. He highlighted the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which is focused on fostering a competitive business environment to attract both foreign and domestic investments.

    Speaking at Epicenter in Stockholm, Shettima noted the long-standing cooperation between Nigeria and Sweden in areas such as trade, technology, and sustainable development. He pointed out key investment opportunities in Nigeria, including the digital economy, agriculture, renewable energy, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), describing the country as “an ambitious nation with limitless potential in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

    During the business forum, themed “Trade and Investments with a Focus on the Digital Economy, Agriculture, and Renewable Energy,” Shettima assured investors that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has taken significant steps to improve Nigeria’s investment climate. He highlighted key reforms, such as the unification of exchange rates and the removal of fuel subsidies, which, though challenging, are necessary for long-term economic growth.

    He further explained that the government’s financial sector reforms, including the revised Cashless Policy and Open Banking Framework, have revolutionized banking services, promoting financial inclusion and innovation. These efforts align with the administration’s goal of creating a business-friendly environment that supports both local and international investments.

    Shettima also identified digital innovation, agriculture, and renewable energy as critical sectors for addressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and economic growth. He urged Swedish investors to explore the vast opportunities in these areas, emphasizing the potential for mutual benefits through collaboration.

    Citing a 30% increase in trade between Nigeria and Sweden in 2022, the Vice President stressed the importance of deepening ties between the two nations. He also underscored Nigeria’s strategic advantages, including its large and dynamic population, noting that the country’s youthful talent is the driving force behind its economic progress.

    In conclusion, Shettima encouraged Swedish investors to seize the opportunities in Nigeria and work together to build a prosperous and sustainable future.