NEWS
Sokoto State to Host Medical College Conference
Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has pledged to host the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria’s annual scientific conference, scheduled for August 2025.
During a courtesy visit from the NPMCN President, Prof. Peter Ebeigbe, the governor expressed his gratitude for selecting Sokoto State as the conference venue.
According to him, it as a valuable opportunity for the state’s healthcare personnel to engage in knowledge-sharing and capacity-building programmes.
The governor described the NPMCN as a vital institution for fostering a robust healthcare system by producing skilled manpower essential for quality healthcare delivery.
“We are grateful to the College for selecting Sokoto State as the venue for the 2025 Annual Scientific Conference.
“This presents a valuable opportunity for our healthcare personnel to participate actively in knowledge-sharing and capacity-building programs,” he said.
The governor assured the NPMCN President that his administration would provide all necessary support to ensure the conference’s success, including logistical arrangements.
He highlighted his administration’s achievements in the health sector, including the employment of over 800 nurses and midwives to bridge the gap in healthcare facilities.
“My administration remains committed to equipping healthcare centers with the required tools, infrastructure, and skilled personnel,” he added.
Aliyu also emphasised that healthcare is a key priority in his administration’s nine-point SMART agenda.
He also expressed his willingness to explore automatic employment for medical graduates in the state.
Responding, Ebeigbe commended Aliyu for his achievements in improving healthcare and road infrastructure.
He described the governor’s commitment as a continuation of his dedication while serving as the state’s Commissioner of Health.
According to Ebeigbe, the forthcoming conference aligns with the government’s vision for delivering top-notch healthcare services in the state. (NAN)
NEWS
Lagos Rescues 9-year-old Victim of Aalleged Sexual Assault
The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD), in collaboration with the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), have rescued a nine-year-old girl allegedly molested by one Baba Michael.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, disclosed this in a statement on his official X handle @ Mo_ogunlende on Saturday.
He said that the alleged assault took place at the suspect’s residence at 4, Azeez Ademola Street, off Anishere, Ayobo.
“This was in response to a viral video posted by Comedienne Princess, who raised alarm to notify the public of the ugly incident.
“The survivor has been placed in protective custody, and she is receiving necessary medical care and psychological support through counseling, ” he said.
According to him, the alleged perpetrator has been apprehended and is currently in custody, with DSVA handling the legal proceedings to ensure justice is served.
Ogunlende said that the swift intervention by MYSD and DSVA underscored the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of all residents, particularly vulnerable persons in our society.
The commissioner urged residents to continue to report matters of concern to the ministry;” See Something, Say Something, Sort It Out”.
He reaffirmed government’s zero-tolerance stance on all forms of sexual and gender-based violence. (NAN)
NEWS
Dangote Refinery Crashes Petrol Price to N890 Per Litre
Dangote Refinery has reduced the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from N950 to N890, effective from Saturday.
Mr Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Dangote Petroleum Refinery, said this in a statement on Saturday in Lagos. Chiejina said that the price adjustment was in response to favourable developments in the global energy sector and a significant decline in international crude oil prices. He explained that this latest move followed a similar decision made on Jan. 19 when a modest price increase was implemented due to rising crude oil costs.Chiejina said with recent global market trends indicating a decline, Dangote Refinery had once again adjusted its pricing structure, providing relief to Nigerians.The statement also noted that the price reduction would significantly lower the cost of petrol across the country, generating a positive ripple effect throughout the broader economy.“Dangote Petroleum Refinery firmly believes that this reduction from N950 to N890 will result in a meaningful decrease in the cost of petrol nationwide,” he said.He said the reduction would drive down the prices of goods and services as well as the overall cost of living, with a positive ripple effect on various sectors of the economy.The refinery called on marketers across the country to ensure that the benefits of the reduced price were passed on to Nigerians.Dangote refinery reiterated its support for the economic revival spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu.According to the refinery, the Tinubu administration is focused on making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub.The refinery’s decision is expected to play a vital role in stabilising the country’s economy.(NAN)Education
FG Allocates N940bn to TETfund in 2025 Budget -Tinubu
The Federal Government says it has allocated N940.5 billion to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in the 2025 fiscal year, to enhance manpower and infrastructure development in the education sector.
President Bola Tinubu stated this on Saturday at the 42nd Founders’ Day and 33rd Convocation of the Federal University of Technology, Minna. Represented by Rakiya Iliyasu, Director of Tertiary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Tinubu said the gesture was demonstrating his administration commitment towards improving educational infrastructure and manpower. He said the federal government had disbursed over N104 billion loans to more than 600,000 students across tertiary institutions under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-driven society, prioritising education in its policies and funding initiatives.He urged universities to deepen collaborations with industries, aligning research with societal needs to contribute meaningfully to national development.The president congratulated the graduates for their resilience and determination, and enjoined them to embrace their new chapter with confidence and purpose.The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu-Kuta described the institution’s 42nd Founders’ Day and 33rd Convocation Ceremony as historical.He said the university had grown to become a leading institution in technological education in the country, ranking 8th on the index of best universities in Nigeria and 2nd among specialised universities.Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger, expressed gratitude to the university for confering on him a Doctorate Degree in Agriculture, saying that it served as a call to do more in the sector.He reiterated commitment to collaborate with individuals to make education accessible to every citizen of the state, and urged the university to continue to take the lead in training and innovative research.Bago advocated for stronger ties with the state government to ensure the institution’s sustainability through agriculture.The governor donated N100 million to the endowment fund established by Sen. Muhammad Sani-Musa, who also donated N200 million.The university produced 5,816 graduates for the 2023/2024 academic session, comprising 4,955 undergraduates, 632 Master’s degree, 105 postgraduate diploma, and 124 PhD holders. (NAN)