News

Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed as WTO Director-General

Published

7 months ago

November 30, 2024

ADMIN

By Adenike Lawal

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed for a second term as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The decision was unanimously endorsed by the WTO’s General Council during its session on Friday.

Her new four-year term is set to commence on September 1, 2025, extending her leadership of the 166-member organization.

In her official statement following the announcement, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala expressed heartfelt gratitude to the WTO member states for their continued confidence in her leadership.

“I am deeply honored by the trust and support of our member nations. Together, we will continue to strengthen the multilateral trading system to ensure it works for all,” she stated.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the WTO, has been credited with steering the organization through a period of global trade uncertainty, emphasizing inclusivity, sustainability, and reform.

Her reappointment signals strong support for her agenda to address pressing challenges such as trade disputes, supply chain disruptions, and the integration of developing economies into the global trade framework.

The WTO General Council noted her exceptional performance during her first term and highlighted her role in advancing significant negotiations, including agreements on fisheries subsidies and the WTO’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As she prepares for her second term, Okonjo-Iweala has pledged to build on her administration’s progress while tackling emerging global trade issues.

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

4 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.