News

Kwara Senator Decries Climate Change Impact On Farming

Published

1 year ago

June 3, 2024

The chairman, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Production Services and Rural Development, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has decried the impact of climate change on the cultivation of farmland, saying it has negatively affected the quality of the soil for farming.

He stated this during the flag off of the distribution of 3,500 bags of 50kg fertiliser to smallholder farmers across the four local government areas of Kwara central senatorial district which he represents at the Senate.

The exercise is the first phase of a broader strategy to ensure sustainable agricultural practices in the district.

The beneficiaries of the lawmaker’s largesse cut across members of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), individuals and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who are into farming.

During the symbolic distribution of the farming inputs at the playing ground of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Ilorin, Mustapha assured that more farmers will benefit from the scheme in the nearest future.

He said the scheme tagged “Empowering Kwara central farmers: Unlocking self- sufficiency in food production,” is aimed at supporting agricultural productivity and improve crop yields for local farmers.

“The impact of climate change and over cultivation of farm land has negatively affected the quality of the soil for farming. This has resulted in a lower yield of crop produce.

“It is important to emphasise that I personally purchased the 3500 bags of fertiliser distributed today to empower our farmers and improve their yield,” he said.

Mustapha noted that the distribution of such a significant quantity of fertiliser demonstrates a substantial investment in the agricultural sector, reflecting a commitment to enhancing food security and supporting the livelihood of farmers to boost food production in the state.

Mustapha used the opportunity to reel out his achievements in office in the last one year as a legislator, saying that the reconstruction of one kilometer asphaltic road opposite Al-Hikmah University leading to Oke-Foma link road in Ilorin West local government area was facilitated to the constituency.

He added that solar-powered motorised boreholes and street lights were also installed across the four local government areas of the senatorial district, to complement the state government’s effort in ensuring that the people of the state have access to safe water.

Education

FG Rolls Out AI Training for Teachers to Boost Tech Education in Schools

Published

3 hours ago

July 7, 2025

Salihu Mohammed

By Rofiat Olokuta

The Federal Government has unveiled a pioneering initiative to integrate artificial intelligence (AI), into Nigeria’s public school classrooms.

Launched on July 7, 2025, the programme, Experience AI in Nigeria is set to train over 3,150 secondary school teachers across five southwestern states.

Spearheaded by NerdzFactory in partnership with the Raspberry Pi Foundation and funded by Google.org, the initiative introduces teachers to the basics of AI and machine learning.

These educators will, in turn, train more than 150,000 students, fostering early exposure to future-ready tech skills.

The hybrid training model blends online learning with hands-on workshops, ensuring inclusive participation from both urban and rural schools.

Running until December 2026, the programme marks a major step in Nigeria’s push to align its education system with global digital advancements and prepare its youth for emerging careers in technology.

News

Ex-Governor Rashidi Ladoja Set to Become Next Olubadan

Published

5 hours ago

July 7, 2025

Salihu Mohammed

By Huldah Shado

Former Oyo State Governor, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is on track to become the next Olubadan of Ibadanland following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

In line with Ibadan’s traditional succession system, the Olubadan stool alternates between two royal lines – Egbe Agba (civil) and Balogun (military).

With the late Oba Olakulehin coming from the Balogun line, the next monarch is expected to emerge from the Egbe Agba line, where Ladoja currently holds the position of Otun Olubadan, the most senior chief.

Ladoja, who governed Oyo State from 2003 to 2007 and previously served as a senator, has steadily climbed the traditional hierarchy.

His elevation in August 2024 to Otun Olubadan formally qualifies him for the revered throne.

He recently marked his 80th birthday in September 2024, further solidifying his legacy in both political and traditional leadership.

News

Agege LG Honours MKO Abiola with Modern Market Project

Published

5 hours ago

July 7, 2025

Salihu Mohammed

By Anifowoshe Oladipupo

Agege Local Government in Lagos has begun the construction of a modern market complex named after late statesman and 1993 presidential election winner, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

The MKO Abiola Market is aimed at boosting commercial activity and providing hygienic, accessible stalls for local traders and small business owners.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Executive Chairman Ganiyu Egunjobi described the project as a legacy initiative and a tribute to Abiola’s ideals of justice, equity, and economic empowerment.

He noted that the project, delivered through a Public-Private Partnership with Urban Shelter and Truworth Ventures, would create jobs, support businesses, and enhance the visual appeal of Agege.

Egunjobi also listed key achievements of his administration, including the construction of new classroom blocks, the establishment of Nigeria’s first CBT centre by a local government, improved healthcare services, free ambulance operations, and monthly financial aid to over 8,000 traders and artisans.

He assured residents of continuity in development efforts, with upcoming projects like a luxury estate and road rehabilitation already underway.

The MKO Abiola Market, he said, is a lasting symbol of progress and a call for residents to preserve it for future generations.