Category: International News

  • BetKing’s 6th Anniversary Extravaganza Unveils Football Spectacle, CSR Highlights In Lagos

    BetKing’s 6th Anniversary Extravaganza Unveils Football Spectacle, CSR Highlights In Lagos


    In a jubilant celebration of its 6th anniversary, BetKing, Nigeria’s premier sports betting company, wowed audiences with a grand football showcase at the BetKing Mini Stadium. The event featured an exhilarating exhibition match between KingMakers FC and BetKing Agents.

    Under the ceremonial start by BetKing’s Managing Director and CEO, Gossy Ukanwoke, the match symbolized unity and friendly competition among staff and partners. KingMakers FC initially took the lead with two remarkable goals, met by a swift comeback from BetKing Agents before halftime. The second half unfolded as a fierce battle, with the Agents reclaiming the lead. However, the resilient KingMakers fought back, resulting in a thrilling 3-3 tie. The tension reached its peak in a penalty shootout, concluding with BetKing Agents securing victory through a decisive penalty kick.

    Expressing his excitement, Gossy Ukanwoke said, “We are thrilled to celebrate our 6th anniversary with such an exciting exhibition match. The games were a fantastic display of teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship from both the Kingmakers and Agents. Congratulations to the Agents for their well-deserved victory. Here’s to a splendid anniversary and the many shared triumphs ahead, all while upholding BetKing’s responsible gaming mantra.”

    Parallel to the football spectacle, BetKing showcased its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by organizing a second match between the teams it sponsors: Ikorodu FC and the Kidsport Charity Initiative. The match concluded with a 4-3 win in favor of Ikorodu FC, emphasizing BetKing’s dedication to CSR, with a specific focus on grassroots football development.

    The celebration brought together employees, stakeholders, players, and spectators in joyous festivities, marking BetKing’s successful six-year journey. As the event concluded, it left a lasting impression, highlighting the company’s prowess in sports entertainment and its commitment to making a positive impact on the community through CSR initiatives in Lagos.

  • Navy Conducts Search, Rescue Exercise To Combat Boat Mishaps In Rivers

    Navy Conducts Search, Rescue Exercise To Combat Boat Mishaps In Rivers


    In response to the rising incidents of boat mishaps in the country, the Nigerian Navy, NNS Pathfinder under the Eastern Naval Command, executed a comprehensive search and rescue simulation exercise aimed at saving lives at sea and mitigating casualties associated with boat mishaps within the nation’s maritime domain.

    Directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the exercise included collaboration with 10 other agencies, such as the Nigerian Airforce, Nigerian Army, Civil Defence, Police, NEMA, NIMASA, NIWA, NPA, the Rivers State Government, among others.

    Commodore Desmond Igbo, the Naval Commander of NNS Pathfinder, highlighted the Navy’s commitment to protecting lives at sea alongside safeguarding the maritime environment. The simulation aimed to enhance the capabilities of various maritime stakeholders in emergency Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, encouraging the activation of the Rivers State Government’s Emergency SAR team.

    Igbo emphasized the need for the Nigerian Navy to not only secure the maritime environment and assets but also fulfill its mandate to protect lives and properties. The simulation exercise involved Naval boats and ships deployed strategically in the creeks to respond promptly to emergencies.

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, commended the Nigerian Navy for organizing the exercise and hinted at plans to revitalize the State Emergency Management Agency. The Governor recalled the heroic act of Joe Blankson, a Rivers indigene who sacrificed his life to rescue 14 persons during a boat mishap in 2018.

    Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu expressed the readiness of the marine Police to collaborate with other agencies in conducting rescue operations within the state’s waterways. He emphasized the crucial role of the marine Police in water operations.

    The Port Harcourt Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Surv. Bernard Ekawu, reiterated NIWA’s commitment to safety on waterways, highlighting established search and rescue centers across all area offices. Ekawu emphasized adherence to safety protocols, including restrictions on sailing at night, boat overloading, and ensuring the use of life jackets.

    South-South Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Mr. Adebiyi Razaq, represented by Zonal Secretary Mr. Ochoche Samson Ochepo, mentioned ongoing advocacy and sensitization efforts by NEMA to reduce disasters on waterways.

    The collaborative efforts of various agencies underscore a holistic approach towards enhancing safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.

  • MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian Navy Forge Stronger Ties With Nigeria Customs To Fight Smuggling In Nigerian Waters

    MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian Navy Forge Stronger Ties With Nigeria Customs To Fight Smuggling In Nigerian Waters


    In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s maritime security, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, met with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 19 February 2024. The meeting aimed to reinforce the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy (NN) in combating smuggling activities along the nation’s waterways.

    Adeniyi emphasized the urgency of joint operations and the sharing of intelligence between the two forces as essential strategies in the fight against smuggling. He outlined the Customs Service’s plans to enhance its marine unit’s capabilities, including the maintenance of its ocean-going vessels, with the support of the Nigerian Navy.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla welcomed the initiative, highlighting the Navy’s readiness to provide training facilities to Customs personnel and to assist in enforcing Customs laws. He also called for a review of the five-year-old Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) for monitoring maritime crimes, to reflect the current challenges and enhance operational efficiency.

    This collaborative effort marks a pivotal step towards securing Nigeria’s maritime borders and underscores the commitment of both agencies to safeguard the nation’s economic and territorial integrity.

  • NN Thwarts Illegal Oil Refining Operation, Seizes 750,000 Litres of Stolen Diesel In Rivers State

    NN Thwarts Illegal Oil Refining Operation, Seizes 750,000 Litres of Stolen Diesel In Rivers State


    In a strategic move to curb illegal oil refining activities, the Nigerian Navy has successfully uncovered an illicit refining site in the Abonema Wharf area of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State. Led by the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, the operation resulted in the confiscation of approximately 750,000 litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.

    The raid, executed on Tuesday following a tip-off, aligns with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s mandate to eradicate illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta and other parts of the nation.

    Speaking to journalists after the operation, Commodore Desmond Igbo emphasized the economic sabotage and environmental degradation associated with illegal oil bunkering. He stated, “This is another illegal oil bunkering site in Port Harcourt. As you can see, we have lots of drums fully loaded with this illegally refined products. We also have some loaded in the bags too. Here, we have not less than 750,000 litres of AGO stolen by criminals stocked here.”

    Highlighting the danger posed by such operations within the city, Commodore Igbo stated, “Apart from being saboteurs of the nation’s economy by stealing these oil, it is also an act of environmental degradation. They also constitute danger to the citizens and properties of people around here because, if there is any form of fire outbreak, it will burn down the entire community.”

    He reassured the commitment of the naval forces to persist in their efforts, despite challenges and attempts at sabotage. Commodore Igbo affirmed, “The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogala has given us this mandate to go to the creeks, the water and the land to make sure that crude oil theft in Niger Delta is put to an end. We will not relent and we won’t be deterred even with all forms of sabotage and blackmails.”

    The Commander urged those involved in illegal activities to seek legal means of livelihood, emphasizing the negative impact on the nation’s economy and the environment.

    The confiscated products will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action. The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its mission to eradicate illegal oil-related activities and ensure the security and prosperity of the nation.

  • Police Announce Downfall Of notorious Criminal 2baba, Leader Of Iceland Secret Cult Following Successful Operation

    Police Announce Downfall Of notorious Criminal 2baba, Leader Of Iceland Secret Cult Following Successful Operation

    The Rivers State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, has successfully concluded a high-stakes operation targeting the notorious criminal known as 2BABA, the leader of the Iceland Secret Cult. This operation was initiated in response to the heinous murder of SP Bako Angbashim, the Divisional Police Officer of Ahoada Division, on September 8, 2023, in Odiemude Community, Ahoada-West LGA of Rivers State.

    Following the viral videos depicting the gruesome murder and the involvement of 2BABA and his gang, law enforcement agencies, alongside the military and other stakeholders, launched a comprehensive manhunt. The Rivers State Government and Nigeria Police offered a 100 million naira bounty for credible information leading to 2BABA’s arrest.

    The operation, conducted with a commitment to policing by consent, resulted in the arrest and prosecution of over 70 suspects connected to SP Bako’s murder. Despite 2BABA and his gang’s elusive tactics, joint security forces persevered, coordinating efforts with the Army, Navy, Air Force, DSS, and NSCDC.

    A timeline of the operation reveals strategic moves and challenges faced:

    – November 28, 2023: Commissioner Olatunji Disu forms a joint operation targeting 2BABA and associates.
    – November 29, 2023: A female associate of 2BABA is arrested, providing valuable insights.
    – December 6, 2023: 2BABA executioner, Faithful Babinghton Joseph, is apprehended, leading to the recovery of weapons.
    – January 19, 2024: Advanced technology is deployed, revolutionizing the operation.
    – February 10, 2024: Air Force executes an aerial assault, causing significant casualties to 2BABA and his gang.
    – February 17, 2024: 2BABA and his gang attack Okogbe town and Odiokwu community, destroying pipelines.
    – February 17, 2024 (04:00hrs): Operatives raid 2BABA’s new camp, resulting in a fierce gun battle.
    – February 17, 2024 (14:00hrs): Intelligence confirms 2BABA’s death after resuscitation attempts fail.

    Items recovered from 2BABA’s camp include various weapons, ammunition, army camouflage, assorted charms, a human skull, and a jack knife.

    Efforts are underway to retrieve 2BABA’s body, and investigations into the Iceland cult’s activities in the region continue. The Rivers State Police Command reaffirms its commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all citizens.

  • CISLAC: Lawmakers Committees Retreat Addresses Critical Food Challenges In Nigeria

    CISLAC: Lawmakers Committees Retreat Addresses Critical Food Challenges In Nigeria

    A comprehensive two-day retreat organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), E-Health Africa, and Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) has addressed critical issues affecting food fortification, workforce nutrition, and food systems transformation in Nigeria. The retreat took place at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, on the 15th and 16th of February 2024.

    BACKGROUND:
    The retreat, facilitated through a Third-Party Advocacy Campaign (TPAC), aimed to equip members of the National Assembly (NASS) with the knowledge and tools necessary to develop and implement effective policies and bills to drive positive changes in the nation’s food systems.

    KEY FIGURES AND ORGANIZATIONS:
    The event witnessed the presence of 16 legislators from the Senate and House of Representatives, along with 14 clerks from various Committees of NASS. The opening session included welcome remarks from the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), and the Chief Executive Officer of NESG, represented by Dr. Seyi Vincent. Notable figures such as Hon. Regina Akume, Chairman, House Committee on NAFDAC, and Senator Kaila Samaila Dahuwa, Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, provided goodwill messages. Dr. Lawrence Haddad, Executive Director of GAIN, delivered a keynote address.

    OBSERVATIONS:
    After thorough discussions during technical sessions and a panel discussion featuring industry experts, several critical observations were made:

    1. FOOD-RELATED CHALLENGES: Nigeria faces significant challenges related to poverty, food insecurity, malnutrition, and diseases.
    2. INSECURITY IMPACT: Activities of armed groups create multi-dimensional security challenges, impacting food production, distribution, and workforce efficiency.
    3. POST-HARVEST LOSS: High post-harvest food loss, stemming from poor storage and processing, hampers food security.
    4. SOARING FOOD PRICES: Escalating food prices have resulted in increased hunger and starvation, worsening the country’s food insecurity.
    5. LIMITED AWARENESS: While a “National Pathways to Food Systems Transformation” document exists, awareness about it among stakeholders is insufficient.
    6. WORKFORCE NUTRITION DEFICIENCY: The absence of a workforce nutrition policy has adverse effects on health, productivity, and economic development.
    7. FORTIFICATION COMPLIANCE: Despite regulations mandating food fortification, compliance remains inadequate across sectors.
    8. POLICY GAPS: Existing policies lack comprehensiveness and coherence, with gaps in addressing current dietary habits and connections to climate change.
    9. HUMAN RESOURCE SHORTAGE: Insufficient human resources hinder efficient action on food systems, workforce nutrition, and fortification compliance.
    10. COORDINATION CHALLENGES: Low collaboration and coordination among stakeholders result in poor information access, hindering effective action.
    11. FINANCIAL SHORTFALL: Adequate financing for food systems and nutrition is lacking in all MDAs with relevant mandates.

    RECOMMENDATIONS: The retreat concluded with a set of recommendations to address the identified challenges:

    1. SPECIAL ADVISER POSITION: Strengthen the Special Adviser to the President on Food Systems and Nutrition with tools, technical assistance, and increased funding.
    2. NATIONAL FOOD SAFETY BILL: Revisit and improve the National Food Safety Bill through a five-member committee.
    3. FOOD FORTIFICATION BILL: Develop and process a comprehensive Food Fortification Bill.
    4. WORKFORCE NUTRITION POLICY: Draft a National Workforce Nutrition Policy in collaboration with stakeholders.
    5. PUBLIC AWARENESS: Conduct evidence-based campaigns to raise awareness about workforce nutrition and interventions.
    6. NATIONAL AGENCY ON NUTRITION: Develop and champion a Bill for a National Agency on Nutrition.

    The communiqué was signed by key figures representing CISLAC, NESG, GAIN, and influential senators and representatives, emphasizing the commitment to addressing these critical issues for the betterment of Nigeria’s food landscape.

  • Air Force Officer Heroically Foils ‘One-Chance’ Robbery Attempt In Abuja

    Air Force Officer Heroically Foils ‘One-Chance’ Robbery Attempt In Abuja


    In a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, Air Commodore John Ijudigal, a serving officer in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), successfully thwarted a robbery and kidnapping attempt by notorious ‘one-chance’ operators in Abuja on February 14, 2024. The incident unfolded at Accra Road, Wuse Zone 5, resulting in the apprehension of three suspects and the rescue of two kidnapped victims.

    At approximately 7:28 pm, Air Commodore Ijudigal, commuting home in his staff car, encountered a distressing scene—an Abuja-painted taxi (Mazda 323, registration BWR 232 XB) reversing at high speed, with terrified passengers screaming for help. A black Toyota Land Cruiser was in pursuit. Air Commodore Ijudigal instinctively joined the chase, using his official vehicle to block the escape route of the criminals.

    In the ensuing collision between the ‘one-chance’ vehicle and Air Commodore Ijudigal’s official car, significant damage occurred to both vehicles. The impact forced the ‘one-chance’ vehicle into a nearby garden. Undeterred, Air Commodore Ijudigal pursued one of the fleeing suspects into a nearby bush with the assistance of onlookers. The driver of the ‘one-chance’ vehicle and two other suspects (a male and a female) were apprehended, while two female victims were successfully rescued.

    Air Commodore Ijudigal promptly contacted the nearest police post and personally handed over the three criminals to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Benneth Igweh, at his office.

    FCT Commissioner of Police Mr. Benneth Igweh commended Air Commodore Ijudigal for his courage, emphasizing that his intervention not only thwarted a potential tragedy but also contributed significantly to the apprehension of criminals posing a security risk in the FCT. The Commissioner praised the senior officer’s act as a demonstration of bravery and unwavering commitment to public service, stating that, “The swift and decisive measures taken no doubt averted a potential tragedy, reinstating confidence in the security forces.”

    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed commendation for Air Commodore Ijudigal’s bravery and selfless service. The senior officer, a former NAF Deputy Director of Sports and currently the Deputy Director of Logistics at the Defence Headquarters, received recognition for his exceptional actions during a critical security incident.

  • NCS Idiroko Command Celebrates Third Edition Of Art Festival For Economic Development, National Security

    NCS Idiroko Command Celebrates Third Edition Of Art Festival For Economic Development, National Security


    In a vibrant celebration merging art, education, and customs awareness, the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, joined hands with the Integration Art Palace and Tour company for the third edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development. The five-day event, held from February 10 to February 14, 2024, aimed to explore the pivotal role of the Nigeria Customs Service in both economic development and national security.

    The festival witnessed active participation from academic institutions such as Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yaba College of Technology, and selected secondary schools in Ipokia Local Government Area, fostering a diverse and engaged audience.

    Chief Superintendent of Customs, Hammed Oloyede, led participants on a tour of the Sentry Customs House, providing insights into seized vehicles, petroleum products, and perishable items warehoused there. The destruction site for seized frozen poultry products was also showcased, emphasizing the Customs Service’s commitment to combatting illicit activities.

    A symposium hosted at the Command’s Headquarters included dignitaries such as Customs Area Controller (CAC) Ahmadu Shuaibu, Director of DSS Mr. IK Ikiriko, and heads of other agencies. The CAC commended the initiative and highlighted the festival’s potential to curb youth restiveness while promoting creative skills. Assistant Comptroller of Customs Emmanuella Chukwu, the guest speaker, elaborated on NCS’s crucial functions in revenue generation, anti-smuggling efforts, and national security.

    Dr. Bonny A. Botoku, the festival initiator, emphasized the choice of Valentine’s Day for the event, aiming to channel youthful energy constructively and prevent unwanted pregnancies. Dr. Botoku expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, acknowledging its significant role in the nation’s economy and security.

    The festival concluded with a grand finale at the Integration Art Palace and Tour cultural center in Idiroko on February 14, 2024. Customs Area Controller’s representative, Deputy Comptroller Administration, DC Charles Ogunesan, presented certificates of participation and awarded prizes to outstanding secondary school participants. The art exhibition, opened by the CAC’s representative, will run until the end of February.

    In a press release from CSC Hammed Oloyede, the Public Relations Officer of Ogun 1 Area Command, the Customs Area Controller reassured continuous support for the festival’s sustainability. The collaborative effort showcased a commitment to integrating customs awareness with cultural and educational initiatives, fostering a positive impact on the community’s economic and artistic development.

  • CP Disu Of River State Hosts Valentine Love Fest For Police Widows

    CP Disu Of River State Hosts Valentine Love Fest For Police Widows


    In a heartwarming gesture, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, Rivers State Police Command, orchestrated a love fest for 200 widows of late police officers, marking this year’s St. Valentine’s Day. The event, held at POWA Secretariat in Port Harcourt, was a celebration of love, remembrance, and support for those who lost their loved ones in the line of duty.

    At the “Widows Food Basket” event, CP Disu and his wife, Mrs. Olufunmilola Disu, Chairperson of POWA in the state, assured the widows of ongoing support. Mrs. Disu emphasized the importance of reassuring the late officers’ wives that they are cherished and never forgotten.

    The Valentine Love Fest on February 14 continued this commitment. CP Disu reached out to over 200 widows, providing food items and undisclosed financial support to each. The event aimed not only to celebrate Valentine’s Day but to honor the sacrifices made by the late officers and their families.

    CP Disu expressed the command’s commitment to consistently honor and support the widows, acknowledging their pivotal role in caring for the children left behind by the fallen officers. He credited the initiative to Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, highlighting the importance of including late Police Officers’ Wives in such celebrations.

    Mrs. Disu, addressing the widows, imparted words of encouragement, emphasizing resilience, prayer, and mutual support among them. Through POWA, she continues to provide opportunities for education, skill training, and vocational needs for association members.

    Josephine Alukabu, leader of LAPOWA, expressed profound gratitude, noting that this celebration marked a significant first for widows. The widows expressed how the gesture has impacted them, praying for continued success for Commissioner Disu and his team.

    This Valentine Love Fest stands as a testament to the commitment of CP Disu and the Rivers State Police Command in recognizing and supporting the families of the fallen heroes.

  • NIGERIA’S PATH TO FOOD SECURITY: Collaborative Efforts And Legislative Vision Drive Transformation

    NIGERIA’S PATH TO FOOD SECURITY: Collaborative Efforts And Legislative Vision Drive Transformation

    In a groundbreaking two-day retreat organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Nigeria’s food security challenges took center stage. Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), CISLAC’s Executive Director, set the tone, emphasizing the urgent need to address food insecurity and malnutrition affecting millions in Nigeria.

    Rafsanjani emphasized the significance of the legislative retreat in addressing the challenges plaguing Nigeria’s food system. Highlighting the interconnected and crucial focus areas, Rafsanjani pointed out the alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition affecting millions of Nigerians, particularly children and vulnerable populations. The retreat provided a platform for robust policy discussions and decisive actions to combat these issues.

    Rafsanjani stressed the importance of enriching staples with essential vitamins and minerals to combat micronutrient deficiencies, emphasizing the need for a region-specific approach tailored to the unique characteristics of each region in Nigeria. He also underscored the vital link between a well-nourished workforce and economic growth, urging strategies to ensure access to nutritious food for working individuals and families.

    Providing stark statistics from the Global Hunger Index, Rafsanjani outlined the urgent need for a resilient and sustainable food system to address the projected increase in acute hunger in 2024. He highlighted the complexities and challenges within Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones, emphasizing the need for climate-smart adaptation strategies and sustainable agricultural practices.

    Rafsanjani called upon members of the legislature to play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges through oversight, appropriation powers, and support for initiatives such as local premix production facilities. He urged the allocation of adequate resources to regulatory agencies for effective enforcement and monitoring of compliance to fortification standards, along with expanding mandatory fortification to additional nutrients and staples based on current needs and national health priorities.

    Dr. Michael Ojo, representing the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), shared his insights at the National Assembly Retreat on Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Food Systems Transformation in Nigeria.

    Dr. Ojo highlighted the global imperative to transform food systems for better food security, nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability. He emphasized the critical need for coordinated policy actions and stakeholder collaboration to address Nigeria’s unique challenges, including infrastructure and capacity deficits, misalignment with development goals, and a lack of technological innovation.

    Acknowledging the complexities of food systems, Dr. Ojo expressed the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition’s pleasure in collaborating with CISLAC and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group through The Third-Party Advocacy Campaign. The goal is to provide insight and chart a roadmap for working with the National Assembly to improve nutrition outcomes through the transformation of Nigeria’s food systems.

    Dr. Ojo stressed that Nigeria’s poor diets contribute significantly to early death, morbidity, and economic inequalities. He highlighted the importance of increasing the accessibility, affordability, and desirability of nutrient-dense foods in the country. Engaging with a variety of stakeholders is necessary, and representation plays a fundamental role in this transformative endeavor.

    Representative Regina Akume, Chairman of the House Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control, delivered a speech at the two-day retreat on Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Food Systems Transformation held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, on February 15th and 16th, 2024.

    Expressing her appreciation to CISLAC for organizing the retreat, Akume emphasized the theme, “Using Evidence to Inspire Action,” and its immense significance in promoting food security for Nigeria’s workforce. As the Chairman of the House Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control and a representative from the Benue State food basket, Akume underscored the need for nutritional fortification actions to improve overall health and economic well-being.

    Akume highlighted the importance of a robust legislative framework and policy on nutritional fortification to provide legal backing for advocacy, ensuring institutionalized and systemic compliance within the concepts of Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Sustainable Food Systems in the Nigerian food industry.

    Commending the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in organizing and participating in the retreat, Akume emphasized the necessity of knowledge sharing and capacity building for sustainable food system transformation in Nigeria. She urged participants to engage in meaningful discussions, share expertise, and explore innovative solutions to overcome challenges related to malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.

    The retreat emphasized the interconnected areas of food fortification, workforce nutrition, and sustainable food systems. Speakers called for region-specific approaches, legislative backing for nutritional fortification, and collaboration across government, industries, civil societies, and academia.

    Participants committed to shaping concrete policy recommendations and actionable steps to drive sustainable food system transformation, echoing a shared vision for a brighter and healthier Nigeria. The outcomes of this collaborative effort aim to contribute significantly to improved food security and nutrition outcomes across the nation.

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