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UNICEF: 1,680 Nigerian Children Abducted in 10 Years

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By Cynthia Abah

UNICEF reports that since the 2014 abduction of Chibok schoolgirls, 1,680 Nigerian schoolchildren have been abducted and 180 have lost their lives. Only 37% of schools in ten states have early warning systems in place to detect dangers like school attacks, according to a recent analysis by UNICEF. This grim reality comes amidst the tenth anniversary of the Chibok mass kidnapping and a recent abduction in Kaduna State.

Ms. Cristian Munduate, UNICEF representative in Nigeria, emphasized the need for stronger efforts to protect children, calling the Chibok abduction a wake-up call. She stressed the importance of addressing both symptoms and root causes, highlighting education as a fundamental right crucial for escaping poverty.

Saadhna Panday-Soobrayan, Chief of Education at UNICEF Nigeria, revealed alarming statistics of conflict-related violence in schools, with over 1,680 children abducted and 180 killed in the last decade. She noted the significant impact of student abductions on learning, citing instances of school closures and fear among students.

UNICEF Nigeria urged decisive action from the government, partners, and the international community to ensure safer schools and protect children. Recommendations include implementing minimum standards for safe schools, addressing infrastructure deficiencies, enhancing security measures, and prioritizing education and child protection in policies and budgets. Additionally, UNICEF emphasized the importance of alternative learning pathways during school closures to ensure the continuity of education for Nigerian children.

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AAEF Trains Young Engineers on CNG Conversion

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By Our Correspondent

The Isaac Ademola Agoro Engineering Foundation (AAEF), has commenced training young engineers in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), conversion to support the Federal Government’s vehicle conversion initiative.

Speaking at the training, the Foundation’s founder, Engr. Ademola Agoro, emphasized its aim to complement President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to ease the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

Agoro, who is also Chairman of Protogy Global, stated, “We aim to empower young engineers by equipping them with the skills to establish small workshops for CNG conversion nationwide.”

Agoro assured Nigerians of the country’s readiness for CNG adoption, highlighting the availability of the required resources and infrastructure.

Dr. Adewale Ikotun, Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (Oluyole Branch), commended the initiative, noting that CNG is safer and more cost-effective than petrol.

He revealed that over 50,000 vehicles have already been converted in Nigeria without any safety incidents.

Sylvia Innocent, the project manager, emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to youth empowerment, providing free training, accommodation, meals, and logistics for participants.

Trainees expressed gratitude for the opportunity, pledging to utilize their new skills to drive national development.

The training aligns with Tinubu’s mandate of converting one million vehicles to CNG, marking a significant step toward a sustainable energy future.

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Abuja Reports

Tinubu Orders More Road Projects Across FCT Area Councils –Wike

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By Our Correspondent 

President Bola Tinubu has mandated the expansion of road infrastructure across all area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike revealed on Saturday.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Saburi Road in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Wike announced the reconstruction of the Dei-Dei Market Road to Life Camp.

The project, set to begin in February, will include streetlights to restore the market’s international status.

Wike commended AMAC Chairman Christopher Maikalangu for delivering impactful projects, saying, “Your chairman has shown exceptional capacity and deserves recognition.”

He also disclosed plans to include the Zaudna to Kagini Road in the 2025 budget, ensuring every council benefits from development projects.

The Minister highlighted Tinubu’s commitment to equitable governance, promising upgrades to schools and urging residents to remain patient as challenges are addressed.

Maikalangu, who described Wike as a “God-sent leader,” praised the timely completion of the Saburi Road, which has boosted economic activities in Gwagwa Ward.

He appealed for additional interventions, including roads and bridges in neglected communities like Zaudna and Kaba.

Residents expressed satisfaction with the government’s efforts and pledged their support for ongoing initiatives.

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Entertainment

Qing Madi Named Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist for January 2025

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By Our Correspondent 

Rising Nigerian singer Qing Madi has been honored as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa Artist for January 2025.

This recognition follows her earlier feature on Spotify’s EQUAL playlist and her distinction as one of Nigeria’s most-streamed female artists in 2024.

Passionate about using her music to impact lives, Qing Madi stands out in the male-dominated industry with her unique artistry.

She incorporates metaphors and layered meanings into her lyrics, evoking deeper emotions and perspectives in her listeners.

Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “As a female artist, I’ve learned to work a hundred times harder than my male counterparts to have my voice heard.

My unique perspective shapes my writing and music, allowing listeners to explore profound emotions through my songs,” she said.

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