FG Unveils National Talent Export Programme To Boost Youth Employment.

FG Unveils National Talent Export Programme To Boost Youth Employment.

...Initiative To Enhance Nigeria's Foreign Exchange Earnings.

On the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), President Bola Tinubu at the weekend launched the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) in a bid to shore up Nigeria's foreign exchange earnings.

 

President Tinubu was represented at the launch by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite.

 

The new initiative seeks to position Nigeria as an export hub for talent outsourcing in Africa following the example of India, Bangladesh, Mexico and The Philippines.

 

The unveiling of the programme took place at the Microsoft Office in New York, United States of America, on Friday, September 22, 2023.

 

A number of dignitaries from multilateral institutions and global tech giants joined the Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment and her counterpart from the Ministry of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, on the occasion.

 

Among those who attended were Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, Mr. John G. Coumantaros, Chairman, US-Nigeria Business Council, Dr. Floriezelle Liser, President and Chief Executive, Corporate Council on Africa,  Amal Hassan, Chief Executive, Outsource Global,  Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency,  Adaora Ikenze, Meta Head of Public Policy for West and Central Africa, Ola Williams, Country Manager, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, who joined online, Joel Ogunsola, Chief Executive, TechDev, and Dr. Femi Adeluyi, National Coordinator of the programme.

 

Also present were Ursula Wynhoven, Representative of the International Telecommunication Union at the United Nations, Dr. Armstrong Takang, Chief Executive of Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Mr. Charles Murito, Director, Sub Saharan Africa – Government Affairs & Public Policy, Google, Mr. Charles Okochu, Senior Business Development Manager, Amazon AWS, and Michelle Masuzyo Nsanzumuco, AfCFTA Digital Trade Expert.

 

In her welcome address on behalf of President Tinubu, Dr. Uzoka-Anite noted that the National Talent Export Programme is a key national initiative that will serve as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for service exports, talent sourcing and talent exports.

 

According to the Minister, NATEP will serve as a dedicated entity to address the unique needs and challenges faced by the talent and service export industry. 

 

The programme will lay special emphasis on enhancing competitiveness, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable growth through trade in services.

 

The minister further noted that NATEP is part of the strategy towards achieving President Tinubu’s agenda for job creation.

 

The NATEP initiative will target the creation of 1 million in-demand jobs across Nigeria, over a 5-year period.

 

"This initiative will do three things for us as a country. One, it will create millions of jobs for our young people over the next 5 years and beyond. Secondly, it will bring in foreign exchange that our economy needs through remittances from talents that will be exported abroad and those that will be living in Nigeria and working remotely for organisations outside Nigeria and thirdly, it will generate huge tax income for state governments," the minister said.

 

In her goodwill message, the Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, Saadia Zahidi, said NATEP is a timely initiative to address the very important areas of skills and jobs for Nigeria and the world.

 

She stated that the WEF looks forward to partnering with Nigeria on the programme.

 

"This is an important programme that is coming at the right time. We at WEF stand ready to work with the Nigerian government on this great initiative."

 

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who praised her counterpart for spearheading the NATEP initiative, said his ministry would collaborate and support the programme to ensure it delivers on the set objectives.

 

Dr. Tijani explained the importance of talents and in-demand workforce as critical part of the global economic structure, saying such is the reason why leading countries across the world are intentional about attracting and retaining top talents.

 

Other speakers at the event also acknowledged how auspicious and ambitious NATEP is as a national initiative capable of changing the economic fortunes of Nigeria just like India that attracts over $300 billion annually from talents export. The speakers  commended the Federal Government on the laudable initiative and gave their commitment towards supporting the programme.

 

A panel discussion that took place during the event was moderated by the National Coordinator of NATEP, with Amal Hassan, Ola Williams and Adaora Ikenze serving as panelists. 

 

The panel discussion attracted a lot of positive feedback from the participants and elicited their commitment to working together to support the NATEP initiative.

 

The event ended with the unveiling of the NATEP logo with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment indicating to the world that Nigeria is ready to become a global hub for talent exports.

Ekiti State NYC Express Dissatisfaction Over Poor Kitting at National Youth Games.

Ekiti State NYC Express Dissatisfaction Over Poor Kitting at National Youth Games.

In a recent development at the ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, the Nigerian Youth Congress, Ekiti State Chapter, voiced their dissatisfaction with the representation of Ekiti State's youth. This concern stemmed from the subpar kitting of the Ekiti State contingent, which had attracted attention on social media platforms.

He said, "It's sad seeing what the youth are wearing amidst comity of states in Ekiti, and it doesn't represent Ekiti State well."

The Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, representing the Ekiti State Chapter, conveyed the collective disappointment of the youth. He emphasized that the attire did not effectively reflect the state's image on this national platform.

However, the Chairman quickly expressed gratitude to the Ekiti State Government, led by Mr. Abiodun Oyebanji, for their swift and effective response to the situation. The government promptly addressed the issue by recalling the Ekiti youth representative leadership at the sports event venue.

Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, Chairman Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State Chapter. 

Aare Adedara Temitope Moses reassured the public, stating, "We were dismayed by the situation, but we have been assured that it is now under control, thanks to the intervention of Mr. Governor, as communicated through the office of the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun."

In a heartening twist of events, the Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Ekiti State, took a moment to commend Team Ekiti for their remarkable performance in the Table Tennis competition, both in the male and female categories. He extended his congratulations to the Ekiti athletes who had successfully advanced to the next round of the Table Tennis Games at the National Youth Games. He acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the coach and the entire team for representing Ekiti admirably on the national stage.

“I want to also use this medium to congratulate the boys and girls of Ekiti who have qualified to the next round of the Table Tennis Games at the National Youth Games; we thank the coach and everyone on the team for putting Ekiti in good light in the ongoing games.” He explained. 

Conclusively, the Chairman, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses urged the Ekiti State government and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to maintain high spirits and ensure that this incident do not hinder the state's overall performance in the ongoing National Youth Games. The focus remains steadfast on fostering a positive image and providing unwavering support for the youth's participation in this significant sporting event.

EKSG Recalls GM Sports Council From National Youth Games Over Athletes’ Poor Kitting.

EKSG Recalls GM Sports Council From National Youth Games Over Athletes’ Poor Kitting.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has recalled the General Manager of the State Sports Council, Mr. Adekunle Adeyemi from the ongoing 7th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State to account for the poor kitting of the state’s athletes at the opening session of the competition. 

The directive followed the shabby appearance of the State contingent at the march-past event during the opening ceremony of the National Youths Games. 

Adeyemi is expected to explain circumstances leading to the shabby kitting of the state athletes at the opening session, which photograph is circulating online. He was directed to hand over to the next most senior official at the Games and return home immediately. 

The official who will act as head of the delegation, is to oversee the welfare and wellbeing of the athletes at the competition. 

A statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun and  made available to journalists in Ado Ekiti, on Sunday, described the development as unfortunate. It however added  that the State would take full responsibility for the regrettable incident.

The Commissioner, however maintained that the State Government made adequate provision for the team’s participation at the Games. 

He restated the commitment of the Oyebanji administration to providing platforms for Ekiti youths to exhibit their God - given talents in line with the youth development and job creation agenda of the administration.

Distinguished Senator Ajibola Basiru PhD; From Osogbo to Abuja.

Distinguished Senator Ajibola Basiru PhD; From Osogbo to Abuja.

....an autobiography of a political icon, altruistic leader and true democrat.

Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D., is a man of many parts. He is a lawyer, a politician, a scholar, and a leader. He is also the current National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party in Nigeria.

Ajibola Basiru's journey to Abuja began in Osogbo, Osun State, where he was born and raised. He attended elementary and secondary school in Osogbo, and then went on to study at the University of Ilorin; where he was firstly rusticated for his students' right advocacy, and again altruistically rusticated for the second time from Unilag before he eventually studied law successfully at the University of Lagos. As an unrepentant knowledge-hungry genius, he currently holds a Ph.D in Law. After graduating from law school, he badged the award of the overall third best graduate and first best graduate in Contract Law. Basiru Esq worked as a lawyer in private practice for several years and lectures in tertiary institutions.

In 2011, Basiru entered active politics when he was appointed Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties in Osun State. He served in this position until 2014, when he was appointed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. In 2019, Basiru was elected to the Nigerian Senate, representing Osun Central Senatorial District.

Basiru's time in the Senate was a tenure of four years but eventful and impactful. He was a vocal advocate for his constituents and for the Nigerian people. He was also a member of several important committees, including the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters as well as Chairing Media and Public Affairs.

In 2023, SRJ as politically addressed was elected National Secretary of the APC. This is a very important position in the party, as the National Secretary is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the party. Basiru is well-qualified for this position, given his experience as a lawyer, a politician, and a public servant.

Ajibola's journey from Osogbo to Abuja is an inspiration to leadership-conscious all. It shows that anything is possible if you work hard, build your capacity and believe in yourself. Basiru is a role model for young Nigerians, and we are proud to have him as the National Secretary of the APC; the largest political party in sub-sahara Africa.

Distinguished Senator Basiru's dedication to serving his constituents and advocating for the Nigerian people is truly inspiring. His track record of accomplishments and the positive impact he has made in various areas of governance and administration demonstrate his effectiveness as a leader.

With a deep understanding of the complexities of modern politics, Surajudeen has displayed grace and integrity in navigating the challenges that come with public service. His ability to skillfully address issues and find innovative solutions sets him apart as an exemplary politician.

One of Dr. Basiru's greatest strengths lies in his unwavering commitment to social justice. Throughout his career, he has consistently fought for the rights and well-being of the people, particularly marginalized and disadvantaged communities. By championing issues such as education accessibility, healthcare improvement, and economic empowerment, he has become a voice for those who have long been neglected.

SRJ's accomplishments not only benefit his constituents but also serve as a beacon of hope for the younger generation of Nigerians. His story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and dedication in achieving meaningful change. Through his leadership, he is inspiring and motivating young Nigerians to actively engage in shaping the future of their country.

As he continues to serve the Nigerian people, Senator Ajibola Basiru Ph.D, BL, is undoubtedly poised to lead into a brighter future. He possesses the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to tackle the pressing issues facing the nation. With his visionary outlook and ability to bring people together, he is well-equipped to foster unity and progress in Nigeria.

In Surajudeen, Nigerians have found a leader who is committed to building a better country for all. He is dedicated to creating an inclusive society where every citizen has access to equal opportunities and a high quality of life. With his compassionate and principled approach to governance, he is set to inspire and lead the people towards a better Nigeria.

Senator Basiru's story is not just about his own success, but about the collective success of all Nigerians. It is a story of hope and possibility, reminding us that with determination, resilience, and dedication, we can overcome any challenges that lie ahead. As he continues to make a significant impact in governance and administration, Basiru will undoubtedly leave a profound legacy, shaping a brighter future for Nigeria and its people. 

With his unwavering commitment to the Nigerian people and his ability to overcome obstacles, Ajibola Basiru has emerged as a true beacon of hope for the nation. His dedication to social justice and his advocacy for marginalized communities exemplify his compassion and empathy for his fellow citizens. 

In his quest for social equality, Comrade SRJ has been a vocal advocate for education reform. He not only keeps awarding educational scholarship from his personal wealth, he understands that investing in the education of young Nigerians is essential for the country's development and progress. By championing initiatives that improve access to quality education and ensure equal opportunities for all, Senator Basiru is laying the foundation for a future where every young Nigeria has the chance to succeed. 

Additionally, Senator Basiru recognizes the critical importance of accessible healthcare, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. He has consistently pushed for policies and programs that prioritize healthcare accessibility, aiming to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in their pursuit of a healthy life. His efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, promote preventive care, and increase support for those with chronic illnesses demonstrate his commitment to the well-being of his constituents. 

Furthermore, Senator Basiru's focus on economic empowerment underscores his dedication to creating a prosperous and inclusive society. He understands that sustainable development requires addressing economic disparities and providing opportunities for all Nigerians to thrive. By advocating for policies that promote entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru is working towards bridging the wealth gap and uplifting communities that have historically been marginalized. 

The Alubarika's (as widely hailed) leadership has not only  tangible improvements to the lives of Nigerians but has also inspired a new generation of leaders. Through his example of hard work, integrity, and a genuine concern for the welfare of the people, he is motivating young Nigerians to actively participate in shaping the destiny of their country. His story serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background, can rise to positions of influence and create lasting change. 

As Nigeria faces numerous challenges, it is leaders like Ajibola Basiru who give us hope for a brighter future. With his visionary outlook, resilience, and compassionate approach to politics and governance, he is well-positioned to lead the nation towards unity, progress, and prosperity. Senator Basiru's legacy will undoubtedly be one of transformation, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of Nigerians for generations to come.

Celebrating the man denied of the return ticket to represent 10 local governments at the senate, who now emerged as the APC National Secretary with jurisdiction of all the 774 local governments across the 36 states and FCT of Nigeria.

Surajudeen's victory at the APC National Convention is a testament to his resilience and receipt of purposeful loyalty. He was denied the return ticket to represent Osun Central Senatorial District in the 2023 elections, but he bounced back and won the National Secretary position.

As National Secretary of the APC, Ajibola Basiru Ph.D now has jurisdiction over all the 774 local governments across the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. This is a huge responsibility, but Basiru is up to the task. He is a committed and experienced party man, and he is determined to lead the more unified APC to victory.

-

Babawale Jamiu POPOOLA,

Media and Communications,

Office of the National Secretary,

All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tinubu steering Nigeria through turbulent waters, says Akpabio.

Tinubu steering Nigeria through turbulent waters, says Akpabio.

The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration is steering the country through troubled waters, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has said.

The Senate President made the remark yesterday, in his speech at a retreat for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

Akpabio, however, assured the President and Vice President, Kashim Shettima, that they would not walk alone.

He said the 10th National Assembly will work hand in hand with them to take the ship of the country to “harbors of bliss and development.”

Akpabio said: “The Vice President of our dear country, Your Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, thank you for honouring the leadership of the National Assembly with your presence in this retreat.

“We know that the executive arm is steering our country through turbulent waters. The mark of a great sailor is not how he fares in calm waters; it is in how he powers through the rough seas.

“If His Excellency, Senator Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and your good self must take the ship of state to harbors of bliss and development, then you must steer us out of the sheltered shore, through the rolling waves and stormy gales, and set the sails to weather every storm, safe in the knowledge that you are not alone.

“Tell Mr. President, that the leadership of the Tenth National Assembly (and by extension the entire National Assembly) says that he will never walk alone.”

Akpabio said the President Tinubu led executive and the National Assembly have been destined to “give hope to our nation.”

He said: “My dear colleagues, when John the Baptist heard about the works of Jesus Christ, he sent his disciples to ask Him, ‘Art thou He that should come, or do we look for another?’

“It was not a religious question; it was a generational and rhetorical question. This question defines the hope and expectation of every nation, every people, every group, when change occurs.

“This is the question in the streets and highways of our dear country; ‘Is this the government that should come, or do we look for another?’

“The follow-up question is, ‘Is this the National Assembly that should come or do we look for another?’

“We believe that this is the government that should come to change the fortunes of our country. We believe that this is the National Assembly that should come to change our destiny.

“We believe that this National Assembly has come to give hope to our nation. There is an Italian proverb that says that the right man comes at the right season.

“We believe we, the members of the National Assembly, have come at the right season.

 “As the leaders of the Tenth Assembly, we must remember that the success of a leader depends on the achievements of the led.

“We must not only be worthy leaders but also dealers of hope for the entire membership of the National Assembly in particular and our nation in general.”

He called on the leadership of the National Assembly to be united and of one purpose in proffering solutions to the myriads of challenges confronting the country.

He added: “Check the history of the world and you will discover that the world has always been changed by a few thoughtful, patriotic, selfless, concerned citizens armed with faith and conviction.

“They led the charge, the masses followed.

Friends and colleagues, we can lead the charge in our country.

“Let us be united in purpose. It does not matter which political party you used to get to the Red or Green Chamber, right now we are in the Nigerian boat.

“If we all put our hands on deck, the Tenth Assembly shall surmount every challenge. It is in our hands to make this Assembly the last hope of the common man or the lost hope of the common man.

“The choice is ours. As leaders, let us see every problem through the broad windscreen of national interest; not through the tiny side mirror of politics. Let us be the symphonic voices of reason; not the raucous echoes of tribal or religious sentiments.

 “My friends and colleagues, let us not make the mistake of thinking that our problem is APC or PDP or LP or SDP or any other party.

“That is an error.  We face a collective action problem because relevant groups and stakeholders in our country fail to connect, cooperate and collaborate. But if we, the leadership of the Tenth National Assembly, can properly understand and effectively use collective action processes in the official conduct of business, we would achieve positive outcomes for our country.

“As leaders of those who represent our people, it behooves us to set collective action templates for our nation’s developmental efforts, and a collaborative legislative agenda for solving our nation’s challenges.”

Credit: The Nation Newspaper.

Suspect who allegedly injected Mohbad not nurse – NANNM.

Suspect who allegedly injected Mohbad not nurse – NANNM

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Lagos State Council, yesterday, said the individual reportedly arrested for injecting the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad is not a registered nurse.

 The association disclosed this in a press statement signed by the State Secretary, Toba Odumosu.

 The association also urged the media to verify the qualifications and professional status of individuals before labelling them as healthcare professionals.

 The 27-year-old singer died on September 12, 2023.

 On September 14, Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, said his son passed away after receiving an injection administered by an auxiliary nurse.

 Aloba said: “According to what I heard from people, I do not believe in that. The only thing I can think of is maybe this auxiliary nurse that used to treat people which is a very bad idea. I do not know the kind of level the woman is.

 ”They said they called her to give him an injection and that is a very bad idea and that injection can result in any length. He had wounds but I do not know the kind of wounds he had.”

 While expressing its condolences to the family of the late singer, the Lagos State Council of NANNM said there is a need for professionalism in reporting and conducting the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.

  ”The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Lagos State Council, expresses its deepest condolences to the family and associates of the late musician, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as we mourn his tragic passing.

 ”We fully support the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death and urge the relevant authorities to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice for him.

 ”However, we must stress the importance of professionalism in reporting and conducting this investigation. NANNM is closely monitoring the situation with keen interest. Our preliminary investigations indicate that the individual reportedly taken into custody by the police for providing care to Mohbad is not a registered Nurse.

 ”We emphasise the critical need to verify the qualifications and professional status of individuals before labelling them as healthcare professionals,” the statement read in part.

 The council said it is regrettable that Nigeria’s healthcare system faces significant regulatory challenges, leading to the presence of unqualified individuals performing medical roles they are not trained for.

 ”In Nigeria, to be recognised as a Nurse, one must complete a rigorous five-year Bachelor of Nursing Science program at a university, followed by an additional year of internship. Alternatively, one can undergo training at an accredited School/College of Nursing and become registered and licensed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

 ”We wish to clarify that the term ‘Auxiliary Nurse’ has no place within Nigeria’s healthcare system or its laws. An individual is either a qualified Nurse or an unqualified individual performing tasks beyond their competence.

 ”Furthermore, we call on the investigating authorities and the media to exercise caution and accuracy in their reporting during this investigation. We will not tolerate any misrepresentation of Nurses and the Nursing profession. We demand that all media outlets that inaccurately reported the arrest of a Nurse take immediate corrective action to rectify their stories”, it added.

Credit: The Nation Newspaper.

Amadi wins NLNG’s $100,000 prize for Science.

Amadi wins NLNG’s $100,000 prize for Science.

Anovel scientific work on respiratory technology for keeping newborns alive by Prof Hippolite Amadi has won this year’s edition of The Nigeria Prize for Science.

The announcement was made by the board at a news conference in Lagos.

The award was sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) and it attracts a $100,000 cash prize.

 Amadi is a visiting professor of Medical Engineering and Technology at Imperial College London.

The Prize’s Advisory Board, led by Prof Barth Nnaji, announced the judges’ verdict based on the 2023 theme: “Innovation for Enhancement of Healthcare Therapy” .

Reacting to the verdict, Mr. Andy Odeh, NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, said the judges’ decision was a testament to the power of collaboration between the private sector, academia, and the broader scientific community.

He stated that the outcome emphasised the need for collective responsibility to nurture and support innovative solutions that hold the promise of transforming the country, adding that it aligns perfectly with NLNG’s vision of “helping to build a better Nigeria” where ground-breaking ideas flourish, and every life is valued and protected.

 “We are honoured and deeply moved by the judges’ decision to recognise the ground-breaking innovation in respiratory technology that has been awarded the Nigeria Prize for Science in 2023.

 “This invention not only represents a remarkable leap forward in medical science but also serves as a beacon of hope for the most vulnerable among us – our neonates.

 “It reminds us that true progress is measured not only in scientific achievement but in the lives it touches and saves.

“Today, we celebrate the impact that innovation can have in enhancing healthcare therapy and safeguarding the futures of countless new-borns.

 “At NLNG, we are proud to be part of a legacy that puts saving lives at the forefront of scientific pursuit,” Odey said.

 On the judges’ report, Prof Nnaji said the work of Prof Amadi has not only significantly advanced neonatal care in Nigeria and similar countries, it has also improved access and lowered the cost of neonatal care by causing an observed reduction in the market prices of the competing and existing devices.

 “The entry showcased three technological innovations aimed at saving the lives of neonates by making the delivery of oxygen cheap and easy.

 “The first innovation is the non-invasive Neonatal Ventilator, a key invention (The bubble Polite CPAP) for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) ventilation of very low-birth-weight neonates, a feasible alternative to the readily available improvised bubble CPAP (IBCPAP) in cost-constrained settings.

 “The second and third innovations are the Oxygen Delivery Blender System, which allows for the safe delivery of oxygen without the danger of toxicity, and the Oxygen Splitter System, which allows for the use of a shared source of oxygen to many neonates at a time, in situations where piped oxygen is not available.

These devices are all solar powered,” he stated.

He added that the devices had been tried by practitioners at various hospitals across Nigeria, noting that there are reports from those hospitals that the innovation, PoliteCPAP, is an improvement on the existing device as it provides access to ventilators and oxygen delivery simultaneously to neonates at an extremely reduced cost of N750,000 as against N6.5 million for the existing device with comparable and better efficiency.

Prof Amadi is a visiting professor of Medical Engineering and Technology at Imperial College London with a special interest in the development of affordable medical systems.

Prior to his work at Imperial College, he was a professor of Medical Technology at Imo State University.

His career spans over three decades, cutting across engineering in healthcare, orthopaedics, and neonatology research. He is also the author of a book “Born to Live, Not to Die.”

The decision on the winning entry was reached by a panel of judges led by Prof Joseph Ahaneku, a Professor of Chemical Pathology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.

Other panel members include Prof Olaitan Alice Soyannwo, a professor of Anaesthesia at the University of Ibadan, and  Abdullahi  Abba, a Professor of Medicine and Pulmonology at Ahmadu Bello University. On the prize’s Advisory Board, in addition to Prof  Nnaji, are Chief Dr. Nike Akande, a two-time minister and former President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Prof Yusuf Abubakar, a professor of Animal Breeding and Quantitative Genetics and the Coordinator of the Agriculture Group, R & D Standing Committee, at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund.

Credit: The Nation Newspaper