The Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, Her Royal Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, has made a call for greater inclusion of women in governance, urging stakeholders to rewrite the narrative of leadership in Nigeria.

Speaking at the Art for Governance Exhibition in Abuja, an event initiated by the Office of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, in partnership with ElectHER, the Advocacy for Civic Engagement (ACE Centre), the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Olori emphasised that the nation’s progress is hindered when women are sidelined from decision-making processes.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s historical narratives, the Olori questioned the minimisation of women’s contributions to nation-building. She cited the example of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, whose legacy is often reduced to being the first woman to drive a car, rather than recognising her as a fearless activist and advocate for human rights.

“Mrs. Ransome-Kuti didn’t just drive a car, she drove change,” the Olori declared. “Yet, our history books often reduce women’s roles to footnotes, and in doing so, we rob our daughters of powerful role models.”

She stressed that this erasure of female leadership has real consequences, reinforcing the idea that governance is a male domain, when in reality, women have always played pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s destiny.

The Art for Governance Exhibition, which aimed to use art as a tool for advocacy and civic engagement, was specifically designed to advance critical discussions on affirmative action, gender equity, and inclusive governance.

The exhibition showcased powerful artistic expressions that highlighted the importance of female empowerment and the urgent need to reform governance structures to accommodate more women.

Currently, women constitute less than 5% of Nigeria’s National Assembly, with slightly better representation in ministerial roles at around 20%. This, according to the Olori, is not just a fairness issue but a national development crisis.

“Studies have shown that female legislators prioritize education, healthcare, and community infrastructure—all fundamental to sustainable development. When we exclude women from leadership, we are leaving money on the table. We are weakening our own nation-building strategy.”

She acknowledged the contributions of remarkable female leaders like Hon. Orode Uduaghan, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Community Support Services, and Girl Child Development in Delta State, but insisted that Nigeria needed many more women in governance.

For his part, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, had earlier emphasised this point in his official invitation to the Olori, where he noted that the exhibition was a crucial platform to advocate for legislative reforms, particularly the Special Seats Bill, which seeks to increase women’s representation in governance.

“Your presence at this distinguished gathering,” he wrote in his invitation, “is invaluable as we engage with high-profile leaders from government, business, and the private sector to champion the cause of equitable governance.”

The exhibition was part of a broader push within the National Assembly to foster policies that remove barriers to women’s full participation in leadership, from family-friendly workplace practices to zero tolerance for harassment and gender bias.

The Olori also urged women to step up and increase their visibility, ensuring that the next generation sees leadership as their birthright, not a privilege. But she also called on men to become active allies, supporting qualified women in leadership roles and dismantling systems that keep women on the periphery of power.

“Dear men, we need you to challenge the biased systems that limit women’s opportunities. Support qualified women in your institutions. Advocate for policies that create pathways for women to lead,” she stated.

She highlighted the need for political parties to actively recruit and support female candidates, as well as for leaders to appoint women not just in “women’s affairs” roles but across key economic, security, and governance sectors.

As she concluded her speech, the Olori issued a resounding call for a new chapter in Nigeria’s democracy one where women’s contributions to nation-building are not footnotes but headlines, not exceptions but expectations.

“Nigeria’s progress will be accelerated when we leverage our full strength,” she declared. “Let us commit to building a future where leadership reflects the diversity and potential of our entire nation,” she added.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa has proposed a shift to a 12-year basic education model in Nigeria.

Dr Alausa made the call on Thursday at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting which is the highest education policymaking body in Nigeria, currently holding in Abuja.

LEADERSHIP reports that Nigeria currently operates the 9-3-4 system, which consists of nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education, and four years of tertiary education.

However, Alausa pointed out that some of the issues influencing the convening of the extraordinary National Council of Education meeting include the introduction of a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria’s education framework and the approval of a national policy on bullying, among others.

“It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work in order to further their education,” Alausa explained.

“It is therefore prudent to transition from the 9-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.”

“A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardisation and fostering quality assurance in the education system.

“It will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience, improve educational outcomes, and contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development.

“A second key agenda to be discussed today at the extraordinary meeting is the conversion of federal science and technical colleges into federal technical colleges,” the Minister stated.

He also mentioned that the Council would be discussing the 16-year policy on admission into tertiary institutions, which is to be incorporated into the national policy on education.

“I am sure many of you have heard about the challenges we face as a nation with talented, bright students being disenfranchised from pursuing tertiary education. In any society, it is crucial to standardise the education of exceptionally gifted students who are highly functional.

“We are now preventing these students, after finishing secondary education at the age of 16, from attending university until they are 18. This delays their development and harms their futures. These students are capable and brave. If we leave them idle, we risk exacerbating mental health issues,” he said.

Regarding the conversion of federal science and technical colleges to federal technical colleges, the minister emphasised that technical education, which imparts practical and applied skills alongside basic scientific knowledge, is crucial for addressing the current skills gap in the labour market.

“The provision of technical education allows a nation’s human and natural resources to be harnessed more effectively. Therefore, technical education contributes significantly to national development, driving cultural and industrial progress,” Alausa noted.

The ongoing National Education Council meeting as of the time of filing this report, is expected to issue a communique detailing the key decisions made.

The founder, Solution Kitchen, Nri, Anaocha local government area of Anambra State, Iyom Ngozi Chinelo Obikwelu has called for support for journalists in their drive to provide information for national development.
Obikwelu made the call yesterday in Nri, when the  Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu-led new executive committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council paid her a courtesy visit.

The NUJ Anambra State patron described journalists as “powerhouse” and said they contribute positively towards societal development through provisions of vital information on the happenings around the world.

This, according to her, is worth celebrating and should be accorded recognition because without information from the media, many would find it difficult to discover the happenings around them or take necessary actions or steps.

“Without journalists, we will not know what is happening around the world. The journalists also help us to make informed decisions and take necessary steps. We need to embrace them, honour and cherish them. They are the powerhouse. We don’t really acknowledge them much as powerful house of the nation,” she added.

She, however, advised the media not to be deterred by the development as she was sure their efforts would never go unnoticed due to the values they add to society.

On the victory of Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu at the recently concluded NUJ triennial conference, she commended journalists for voting for him for a second term, even as she assured support to the union as a patron.

“Odogwu is a man of integrity, experienced and trustworthy. He is very intelligent, articulate and gentle, a good personality to be trusted. He has to be there to continue with his good works. I want to celebrate him for the well deserved victory,” she stated.

Earlier in his speech, comrade  Odogwu commended Iyom Obikwelu for being the first patron of the union to celebrate the new executive, assuring that the protection and welfare of journalists would be the top priority of the new administration.

Former chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr Sam Amadi, has called for the abolition of results collation centres in Nigeria, citing the need for a more transparent and efficient electoral process.

He made the call yesterday while delivering his keynote address during a virtual event organised by the National Association of Seadogs(Pyrates Confraternity), Sahara Deck, on “Election Management and Accountability in Nigeria: Issues and Way Forward.”

According to Amadi, the current system of results collation centres is vulnerable to manipulation and falsification of results.

“The manual process of collating results is prone to errors and tampering,” Amadi said. “By abolishing results collation centres, we can reduce the risk of electoral fraud and ensure that the results reflect the true will of the people.

“The problem with our elections has been with us for a long while, apart from the fact that political parties have been largely ethno-religious. We now have political parties that lack clear ideologies.”

He added that the president should be stripped of the power to appoint the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman.

“You need to take away the power of appointing the INEC chairman from the president. So long as the president continues to appoint the INEC chairman, elections will always be flawed.”

Amadi stated.

 

Also speaking, veteran journalist Jimi Disu, who was the Lead Discussant, said, “It is essential that stakeholders engage in a constructive dialogue about how to improve the electoral process and ensure that the results reflect the people’s true will.

 

“All of you know the famous phrase, “Go to court.” With the experience of what we saw in past elections, I don’t see anything changing in 2027 if reforms are not carried out in our electoral system.”

 

The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Abdulganiyu Jaji, has called on fuel tanker drivers to adopt anti-spill locks to prevent fuel spills and reduce the risk of explosions.

This is amid the growing number of fuel tanker accidents across the country.

According to The TheNigerian, at least three tanker explosions have occurred recently—two in Niger State and one in Enugu State—resulting in several fatalities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the first batch of the Federal Fire Service Career Progression Training for Chief Superintendents of Fire in Abuja on Thursday, Jaji stated that fuel tanker explosions can be prevented if drivers follow fire safety precautions.

“These incidents are avoidable, and all tankers transporting flammable substances must be fitted with anti-spill locks to prevent fuel leakage during accidents, thereby mitigating explosion risks,” he said.

The Controller General further revealed that his service is working in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enforce stricter regulations, conduct regular vehicle inspections, and improve driver training programs to boost road safety.

“Our discussions with the FRSC highlight the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, functional fire suppression systems in tankers, and strict adherence to safety protocols.

“It is also crucial that drivers undergo regular professional evaluations to ensure compliance with safety standards,” Jaji added.

Jaji also emphasised the importance of the six-week training program for officers and urged them to take the training seriously, as successful completion is now a prerequisite for promotion within the service.

“Leadership in the fire service demands responsibility, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

“Our ultimate goal is a safer, more resilient, and fire-free Nigeria, and every one of us has a role to play in achieving this vision,” he stated.

Addressing recent allegations regarding unpaid allowances, Jaji assured officers that the service has never withheld training allowances since he assumed office.

“The allegation is not true. I have ensured the payment of training allowances since I assumed office.

“Also, the allegation that you don’t have accommodations for your training is not correct. We accommodated them at the fire academy in Shedda,” he said.

In addition to addressing these concerns, Jaji visited training centres in Kubwa and along Airport Road to assess the conditions of the new recruits in the service.

As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate the 2025 World NTD Day, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, has called for increased budgetary allocations and stronger partnerships to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the country.

The minister, who stated this at a press briefing in Abuja emphasised the need for greater collaboration and investment to tackle NTDs, which affect over 200 million Nigerians and are closely linked to poverty, poor sanitation, and inadequate healthcare access.

“Nigeria accounts for 25 per cent  of Africa’s NTD cases, with 165 million people requiring preventive treatment. These figures highlight the urgent need for targeted funding and effective partnerships to eliminate these diseases,” Dr. Salako said.

200m Nigerians At Risk Of Neglected Tropical Diseases – FG

The minister outlined the government’s achievements, including the eradication of Guinea Worm, elimination of Onchocerciasis in two states, and significant progress in reducing trachoma and lymphatic filariasis across the country. However, he noted that much work remains to be done to meet the 2030 global targets set by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) NTD Roadmap.

Dr. Salako stressed that eliminating NTDs requires sustained financial commitment from both government and private sectors. He urged state governments to allocate adequate budgetary funding and integrate NTD programs with other healthcare initiatives to maximize resources.

“The fight against NTDs is not just a federal responsibility. States must step up by mobilising domestic resources, ensuring budgetary support, and prioritising NTD activities in their healthcare plans,” he stated.

The minister also highlighted the importance of partnerships, praising the role of development partners such as WHO, UNICEF, USAID, and private organisations in supporting Nigeria’s NTD programs.

Also speaking at the event, the Country Director of CBM Global Nigeria, Abdulazeez Musa, emphasised the transformative power of partnerships in addressing NTDs. He highlighted CBM Global’s collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to integrate mental health care into NTD programs and implement person-centered approaches to disease management.

“NTDs are not just a health issue; they are a social justice issue. Addressing them requires partnerships across sectors to create inclusive health systems that prioritize the most vulnerable populations,” Musa said.

He called for innovative and sustainable financing to ensure equitable healthcare and reiterated the importance of acting promptly and collaboratively to achieve the elimination targets.