The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has warned that human trafficking is a significant and direct threat to national security and public safety by fueling organised crimes.

NAPTIP Director-General (DG), Hajiya Binta Adamu-Bello, made the remarks in Dutse at the launch of a programme aimed at supporting and empowering women and children from Jigawa who are engaged in street begging across Nigeria.

The programme is being implemented Hamadan Kasiran Orphan, Vulnerable and Children OVC Foundation, in collaboration with the Children Education Support Initiative in Arewa (CESIA), championed by Hajiya Amina Nadami, the wife of Jigawa Governor.

The initiative seeks to provide opportunities and support to help them improve their lives and break the cycle of poverty.

”Child beggars are highly vulnerable to human trafficking, as a sizeable number of them are recruited for various forms of exploitation, organ harvesting or even used in armed conflict,” she said.

Adamu-Bello, represented by agency’s Commander in the state, Mr Abdulkadir Turajo, said NAPTIP, established in 2003, is Nigeria’s only focal agency responsible for fighting the scourge of human trafficking and other related exploitation across the country.

According to her, reports and findings indicate high prevalence of recruitment into terrorism and armed conflict among the victims of human trafficking that are daily transported from rural to urban areas and across the borders for prostitution and hazardous labour.

Adamu-Bello described human trafficking as one of the world most threat to national security and public safety.

”It fuels public sector corruption, irregular migration, undermines human capital development potentials, causes social break down and exclusion, dearth of capable manpower, human degradation, abuse of human rights, spread of diseases, tarnish national image and other associated financial crimes,” she said.

She decried that trafficking in person has re-emerged in recent times as a modern form of slavery.

She said the recruitment, transportation, within or across borders, purchase, sale, transfer and harboring of persons, involving the use of deception, coercive or debt bondage for the purpose of placing or holding a person in forced or bonded labor, prostitution or in slavery like conditions like begging, is a crime.

“The law recognises this serious violation of children rights, and under the trafficking in persons prohibition enforcement and administration Act, 2015 in Sections 13,15,19 and 20and prescribes a minimum punishment without an option of fine of not less than seven years imprisonment for offenders,” she said.

Adamu-Bello said the agency recently rescued 13 female victims in Maiduguri, who were trafficked from Babura town in Jigawa for forced labour and begging.

“NAPTIP Jigawa State Command successfully rescued and reunited 221 victims with their families since it was established in 2023,” she said.

She reiterated the agency’s commitment to working with its partners to identify and support victims while also addressing the root causes of the menace.

“I commend the Hamdan Kasiran OVC Foundation and Children Education support Initiative for their dedication to this cause. Let’s work together to ensure that children and vulnerable population are protected, empowered, and given the opportunities they deserve,” she added.

She called for more community awareness programmes on the dangers associated with begging through engagement of religious and traditional institutions in the state.

The director-general assured that the agency will remain committed toward the prevention of all forms of human degradation and exploitation through the coordinated use of the nation’s crime prevention and law enforcement resources, to stamp out human trafficking.

Earlier, the OVC Foundation and CESIA National President, Mr Sa’idu Kaptan, commended the Jigawa governor’s wife for her unwavering support, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable women and children.

“Your leadership is a beacon of hope, and your presence is powerful remainder that change begins with empathy and action,” Kaptan said.

The representatives of Dutse and Ringim Emirate Councils, Alhaji Yusuf Turaki and Alhaji Muktar Wada, respectively, praised the foundation for its efforts in protection vulnerables in the society.

The President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Femi Fadina, has called on Nigerians in the diaspora to turn their annual festive homecomings into strategic investment opportunities that would grow and sustain the nation’s creative economy.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 Detty December celebrations, the ATPN president urged the diaspora to see their visits as a window for cultural and financial reinvestment rather than a season for fun alone.

“Every concert, every curated experience, every cultural homecoming can – and should – be a conversion funnel for investment engagement,” he said.

Fadina, who made the call in an interview on Monday in Lagos, said that in 2024, Detty December generated about N1.5 trillion in domestic spending across hospitality, logistics, nightlife, and entertainment. He regretted, however, that there was no reinvestment into the creative economy for sustainability.

“But less than 10 per cent of that was reinvested into the creative infrastructure or destination development,” he said.

According to Fadina, ATPN aims to reposition Detty December from fun to fund, as part of a broader effort to promote diaspora participation in Nigeria’s creative economy from a residual 15 per cent to an active 25 per cent investment interest.

“Don’t just come home to party. Come home to partner,” he said.

Fadina noted that a large portion of diaspora spending goes into family support, entertainment and short-term consumption.

He, however said that efforts must be made to ensure that the diaspora capital was channelled into development capital for long-term equity investments.

“The challenge isn’t the volume of spending, it’s the direction of spending.

Fadina unveiled a calendar of events for the 2025 festive season, including a Creative Capital Week, EWA Experience Series and a Cultural Economy Roundtable that would measure the economic impact of the celebrations.

He emphasised that a change of mindset toward the upcoming festivities was crucial to transforming Nigeria’s soft power into tangible growth.

“We must move from consumerism to capital formation, from temporary spectacle to sustainable structure, from cultural excitement to cultural enterprise.

“Detty December is not just a party, it’s a platform for prosperity.

“Fun must now fund the future,” he said.

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has been described as a man ordained by God to bring hope and succour to the downtrodden masses of Rivers State.

This was the declaration by the management and staff of CLEMO Schools, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, as they bestowed on the Rivers State Governor an award of Peace, Statesmanship, and Development Expert at the Founder’s Day celebration of the school in Calabar on November 5, 2025.

The CLEMO Founder’s Day is celebrated annually in honour of Mrs Lawrentia N. Effanga, proprietress of CLEMO Schools, who turned clocked 92 years on November 5, 2025.

Speaking while presenting a plaque to the governor, the chairman of the occasion, Mr Agube Paulinus said, CLEMO Schools aligns itself with the peaceful disposition of Governor Fubara and the development strides which has become the hallmark of his administration, despite political challenges and distractions.

The plaque was received on behalf of the governor by Celestine Ogolo.

Earlier, Mr Paulinus had extolled the sterling qualities of the proprietress of CLEMO Schools, Mrs Lawrentia N. Effanga. He said the giant educational feats attained by the school in recent years were products of hard work, discipline, and motherly heart, which Mrs Effanga had brought to the management of the school.

He also showered encomiums on the staff and students for exemplary conduct, which has made the school the envy of all in Cross River State.

Earlier, while welcoming guests to the Founder’s Day ceremony, which took place at the school premises along Old Odukpani Road, Ikot Ansa, in Calabar, Mrs Effanga expressed gratitude to God for sustenance of life, and the cooperation and love extended to her by parents, staff, students, and old students of the school.

“Every 5th November marks a significant milestone in my life and the entire CLEMO Schools. It is an opportunity to celebrate the gift of life and God’s innumerable blessings and faithfulness to me and the entire CLEMO Schools community.

“It is also an opportunity to recommit to the vision that inspired the birth of CLEMO Schools. What began years ago with just three pupils has grown in leaps and bounds. Today, CLEMO Schools is one of the best in Cross River State – a worthy testament that God has truly multiplied our efforts. To Him be all glory,” Mrs Effanga stated.

The proprietress commended and thanked her guests, who came from far and wide to celebrate the day. She also appreciated the continuous support of the Macpepple T. Foundation for the scholarship scheme initiated and sustained over the years to 20 former students of the school in higher institutions.

Also speaking, the chairman of the Planning Committee of the Founder’s Day celebration in 2025, Mr Ekanem said that November 5 every year is historical in the life of CLEMO Schools. He said it was not just about commemorating the founding of the school but also to reflect on “journey of growth, excellence, and the impact that has defined CLEMO Schools since its establishment.”

“We are here to honour a woman, who years ago, looked upon this very ground and saw not an empty land, but a future filled with the promise of knowledge, character, and excellence. She planted a seed with faith that it would grow into a mighty tree, and today, we are all beneficiaries of its shade.

“Over the years, our school has produced men and women who are excelling in various fields of human endeavor-education, science, leadership, arts, and technology, contributing meaningfully to the development of our nation and beyond”, Mr Ekanem said.

Also, in an emotion-laden speech presented by Master Elijah Bassey, Senior Secondary One student of the school, on behalf of scholarship beneficiaries, they lauded Mrs Effanga for her love for children and benevolence which has turned fortunes of many for good.

The 92nd birthday of Mrs Lawnentia N Effanga and the Founder’s Day Celebration of CLEMO Schools was heralded by colourful match-past by the Boys Brigade and CLEMO Schools students. Other highlights were award presentation to dignitaries, including Hon Clapton L. Ogolo, who is the Chairman, Board of Management of CLEMO Schools. Other recipients were the Clan Head of Nkonib Qua Clan, His Highness Ntoe Paul Bassey Assimita ii, Macpepple J. Foundation, His Highness Esinjo Francis Edet, Pastor Alex of Glorious Covenant Church, Riverd State, Pastor(Mrs) Grace Emerald Udoka, Rt. Rev. Nelson Ekong Adolphus, Paulinus Agube, and Bryan Etim, amongst others.

Other highlights included traditional dance displays, JETS club presentation debates by the high school students, welcome song by the nursery department, performing arts, and the crowning of the Queen and King of CLEMO Schools.

Dignitaries from all over Nigeria including Mr Baritor Kpagih, a retired Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Hon Martin Nwigbo, a former chairman of Khana LGA of Rivers State, Nnamdi Ake, a former member of the Governing Council of Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, Rivers State, Sir Kpaliku, former Chief of Protocol, Government House, Rivers State, among several others.

The celebrant and proprietress of CLEMO Schools also cut her 92nd birthday cake, amid shouts of joy and excitement.

The ongoing road maintenance works approved by His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to eliminate potholes across Port Harcourt’s major roads and streets continue to draw commendation for their quality and attention to detail. Fresh photos from the Rukpokwu Roundabout speak volumes, showcasing a standard of workmanship designed to prevent future deterioration rather than offer temporary fixes.

Although road users may encounter slight delays and brief inconveniences, these short-term sacrifices are necessary for safer, smoother and more durable road conditions.

Governor Fubara’s insistence on quality clearly demonstrates responsible leadership.

This commitment to safety comes at a crucial time. During the just-concluded National Town Hall Meeting and Ember Months Road Safety Campaign Flag-Off in Port Harcourt, themed “Take Responsibility for Your Safety; Stop Distracted Driving”, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) revealed alarming statistics: a total of 3,915 persons were killed in road crashes in 2025, compared to 3,811 in 2024 — an 11.55% rise in fatalities.

Owing to Governor Fubara’s proactive support to the Corps and his drive to improve road infrastructure, of which the current pothole eradication project is a part, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, mni, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt, conferred on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, an investiture as Patron of the Special Marshals.

This recognition is not just from the Road Safety Corps but reflects the appreciation of Rivers people, thanking Gov. Fubara for prioritizing excellence, enforcing standards and championing safer roads.

Rivers people deserve the best and under Gov. Sim Fubara’s watch, they are getting it.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has extended the registration period for the 2025 Batch ‘C’ Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) till midnight of November 11.

In a statement on Saturday in Abuja, the Director, Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, said the registration deadline was extended to enable Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) conclude registration.

She noted that the extension became necessary following difficulties faced by some PCMs in the ongoing registration for mobilisation.

Embu, however, said that the longer than usual time it was taking some PCMs to complete the registration was as a result of network issues.

She said “while management regrets the inconvenience this might have caused our valued PCMs, we wish to assure all that we are working round the clock to resolve the issues and ensure they enjoy seamless registration.”

Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), the state health insurance agency, has lauded the stance of the state governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, in prioritising the welfare of health workers in the state and giving approval to steps that will increase universal health coverage of the state.

RIVCHPP’s position was made public in a statement by its Executive Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Vetty Rolegherighan Agala, in reaction to the recent meeting the Governor had with the leadership of the Association of Resident Doctors, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital .
It would be noted that at the said meeting, Sir Siminialayi Fubara gave far-reaching directives and approvals like the immediate implementation of skipping and accoutrement allowance for 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Some other decisions at the meeting were the payment of residency grants for medical doctors in Rivers State Government services, the promise to employ more health workers, improved healthcare delivery, and the approval of health insurance for health workers in Rivers State, among other health improving policies.
According to the statement by Dr. Agala, RIVCHPP is really overjoyed that despite the obstacles placed on the way of governance in the state, Governor Fubara has never been deterred from taking bold steps at improving the health of all Rivers residents, praying for him to continue to govern the state in ways that the universal health coverage of the state will greatly improve.
Dr. Agala then emphasised that the strategic move by Governor Fubara will ultimately motivate health workers and improve the quality of care, which is a key component of universal health coverage.

The Executive Secretary of RIVCHPP, Dr Vetty Agala, also used the medium to heartily congratulate the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, for always being proactive and giving positive leadership in all matters geared towards bettering the health of Rivers residents and ensuring that all health facilities are fully functional and well-equipped.

Dr. Agala pledged the total commitment of RIVCHPP towards the actualization of the administration’s #Health4All mantra, promising to do all within its mandate of achieving universal health coverage by providing financial risk protection for all Rivers residents, especially the vulnerable population.

Renaissance Africa Energy Company has invested over three million US dollars in the ongoing upgrade of facilities at the Government Technical College (GTC), Okujagu, Port Harcourt.

Mr Olanrewaju Olawuyi, General Manager, Nigerian Content Development at Renaissance, disclosed this during a stakeholder meeting on the project in Port Harcourt on Friday.

Olawuyi said the initiative reflected the company’s strong commitment to advancing human capacity development and promoting technical education in Nigeria.

According to him, upon completion, the college would rank among the best technical institutions in Africa and compete favourably with its counterpart globally.

“We have already invested over 3 million USD in rebuilding the college, equipping it, and training staff, among other aspects.

“The project is still ongoing, and additional funds will be deployed to ensure its completion,” he said.

Olawuyi explained that the project, which is being implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), was structured into three phases.

The Atlantic Bell reports that the first phase involved upgrading facilities, including constructing new buildings and refurbishing existing ones such as the ICT centre and four workshops.

“The second phase focuses on equipping the college with the latest tools and technologies in the ICT centre and workshops,” he stated.

He added that the third phase prioritised sustainability through teacher training, student skill development, and establishing mechanisms that would enable the college to generate revenue for its operations.

“Our goal is to make the college self-sustaining through capacity development and financial independence.

“This stakeholder engagement is aimed at ensuring that all parties work together to achieve this objective,” he said.

On security, Olawuyi said Renaissance and NCDMB had begun engaging key stakeholders to ensure the protection of the project.

He said the engagement included consultations with community leaders, GTC management, faith-based organisations, and local business owners.

Emphasising that the project belongs to the public, he urged residents to take collective responsibility in protecting it against vandalism and theft.

“We are working with stakeholders to resolve issues such as encroachment on the fencing areas and to take responsibility for protecting the facility.

“Whether you are a native or resident of Rivers State, everyone has an equal stake in the college.

“So, if anyone observes vandalism or theft, they should report it to the police or the school board. We all must protect this project,” Olawuyi appealed.

In his remark, Mr Abayomi Bamidele, Director of Capacity Building Development at NCDMB, said that beyond its regulatory role in the oil and gas industry, the board was deeply involved in promoting educational development.

He noted that NCDMB collaborates with companies through its Human Capacity Development Initiative to enhance the socioeconomic development of their host communities.

“This is why projects like the Government Technical College upgrade are very important to NCDMB.

“We are passionate about supporting development in universities, vocational education centres, and both secondary and primary schools,” Bamidele said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Mr Allwell Ihunda, assured Renaissance Energy of the local government’s full support to ensure the project’s successful completion.

He described education as a key driver of societal development, commending Renaissance for its investment in the state’s human capital.

According to him, the local government will work closely with Renaissance and NCDMB to address any security concerns relating to the project.

Ihunda also pledged to tackle the issue of encroachment on the college’s property and assured that all illegal structures around its perimeter fence would be demolished.