News

BoI Launches Mobile App to Track Food Prices

Published

9 months ago

October 3, 2024

editor

By Emmanuel Ogbodo

The Bank of Industry (BOI) has launched a new mobile app that enables users to check live food prices across eight states in Nigeria. The app, along with its web version, Pricesense.ng, provides real-time wholesale and retail prices for essential food items such as rice, beans, tomatoes, and maize in Borno, Plateau, Rivers, Oyo, FCT, Lagos, Enugu, and Kano.

In addition to offering price tracking, the app features analytics, allowing users to compare prices based on brand type, quantity, and different dates throughout the year.

This initiative comes amid a sharp rise in food prices in Nigeria, with food inflation surpassing 40% in June 2024. Factors such as irregular weather patterns, insecurity in key food-producing regions, and increased farming input costs have contributed to the crisis.

International organizations like the World Bank, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) have warned of record numbers of food-insecure people in Nigeria this year. The FAO projects that up to 32 million Nigerians, particularly women and children, could face food insecurity in 2024.

In response, the federal government has introduced several measures, including the approval of duty-free food imports for 150 days and the distribution of grains across the country. The government has also begun selling rice at a discounted rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag.

However, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has accused traders of exploiting consumers by forming cartels that drive up food prices. The FCCPC has closed some supermarkets for unethical practices and has directed traders to reduce prices or face consequences.

The BOI’s app is expected to provide greater transparency in food pricing, empowering consumers with the information needed to make better purchasing decisions.

Education

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

Published

2 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

4 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.