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APWEN restates commitment to supporting girls in STEM
…as Kwara First Lady drums support, calls for AI Inclusion
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has reiterated its commitment to providing girls interested in the Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematic (STEM) fields with the necessary support, mentorship and resources in order to achieve their life dreams.
APWEN President, Engr. Dr. Adebisi R. Osim, disclosed this at the “STEM for All” programme, in collaboration with STEAM Up Kwara which held at the NSE Ilorin Branch Engineering Centre.
The programme, which commenced on the 27th of May with visits to the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, stakeholders with media appearances, came to an end in a grand style with high ranking government officials, students and stakeholders in attendance .
According to Engr. Osim, the theme of the event is, “The Girl Child and Advancement in STEM”, adding that “it is a poignant reminder of the critical need to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and provide our girls with the support and encouragement they need to pursue their passions in STEM.
“We are here to champion diversity, inclusion, and gender equality in these vital sectors that will drive our nation forward.”
Talking on the importance of STEM education for girls, she added that “STEM skills are critical for success in the 21st century economy and are key drivers of innovation, productivity and competitiveness.
However, women and girls are significantly underrepresented in STEM fields.
“According to UNESCO, only 30 percent of STEM students in higher education globally are women. We must change this narrative and empower our girls to pursue STEM subjects and careers.
“As Michelle Obama said, no country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.
“We have also established STEM clubs in schools to provide a supportive community for girls interested in STEM.
APWEN, in partnership with the Kwara State Government and STEAMUP Kwara, is dedicated to empowering and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM.”
The APWEN President appreciated the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his support, while commending his achievements in the education sector and girl-child empowerment in the State.
The First Lady of Kwara State, Amb. Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq in her remarks commended APWEN Ilorin Chapter for the laudable initiative and noted that students in the arts class should also be encouraged and supported in achieving their dreams, noting that STEAM also contains “Arts”.
She said this will help them in solving the problems of their communities, while noting that the government of Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is leaving no stone unturned in its aim of improving learning outcomes in the State education sector.
The First Lady, who called for the inclusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI), reiterated her commitment to supporting the growth and development of the girl-child, while urging active participation of boys and girls.
She said: “The boy child should be seen as a partner in achieving an equal and sustainable world.”
Earlier, the Chairman of APWEN, Ilorin Chapter, Engr. Nihinlolawa Olawuyi, had appreciated the attendees and reiterated that it is necessary to support and encourage girls to go for STEM courses, while noting that the importance of more advocacy and sensitisation.
On his part, the Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Taiwo Olashehu FNSE, who was represented by Engr. Ali Bawa MNSE, urged the students to develop their passion for STEM, adding that there are several opportunities available for them.
The Special Adviser on Education, Dr. Adetola Salau on her part noted that girls should be encouraged in the STEM field and added that it is important for the teachers to be trained too while appreciating the First Lady for her interest in STEAM UP Kwara.
The Emir of Ilorin, HRH Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who was ably represented by the Magaji Muse of Ilorin and former M.D. Lower Niger River Basin, Engr. Abubakar Tonile Aduragba, appreciated APWEN and added that STEM education is important and that boys and girls should get all support needed to excel.
The event witnessed a STEM school competition held among the selected schools.
Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin clinched the first position, followed by Lower Niger River Basin Staff College, Ilorin with the second position and keenly followed by Government Model Girls’ Secondary School, NNPC, Oke-Oyi with the third position.
An interesting and educative panel session was led by the APWEN National Technical Secretary, Engr. (Dr.) Tolulope Erinosho and the brilliant discussants spoke on the importance of encouraging girls to venture into STEM, the need for more support, encouraging female entrepreneurship among other vital issues.
Also, the Zonal Co-ordinator for APWEN South-West Zone, Engr. (Prof.) Tawakalitu Onifade, expressed her enthusiasm for the advancement of STEM skills and urged the students to be resilient and to put more efforts into their studies so as to become relevant in the ever-dynamic world of STEM.
Other highlights were the official launching of STEAM Up Kwara by the First Lady, Amb. Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, presentation of certificates to the Governor and the First Lady, presentation of certificates and gifts to the students.
Present at the event were the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Segun Ogunshola, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Alabi Afeez Abolore, role models in the STEM field and students from selected Secondary schools in Ilorin.
News
RUN Set to Mobilize Millions of Youth for Tinubu/Akpabio Ahead of 2027
Following the conclusion of party primaries, Rising Up for a United Nigeria (RUN) as a civil society group championing the cause of all youths and middle age citizens has congratulated His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his landslide victory in the presidential primaries recently held.
RUN also congratulated Senator Godswill Akpabio for emerging unopposed and the wild jubilation that greeted his victory as the Senator representing his constituency, the good people of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large.
In a press release signed by Amb. Solomon Adodo and made available to journalists, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, the group described the win of the duo as beam of hope for Nigeria beyond 2027.
According to him, “the win of Asiwaju and Akpabio signals a beam of hope for Nigeria that beyond 2027, we shall be consolidating on the gains of synergetic partnership between the legislature and the executive as a precursor for rapid development.
“The support extended to Mr. President by the Senate President has yielded significant strides in fasttracking development across all parameters that affect national productivity”
The group therefore called on all Nigerians to come out in their numbers to support the president while outlining series programs with potentials to foster national unity across regional and religious lines.
“As a group representing the interests of Nigeria youths, we are determined to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President towards improving the skill set of Nigeria youths towards increased productivity and an end to unemployment”, the release stated.
The group expressed confidence in the possibility of a new Nigeria of our dreams with the victories of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio who will definitely be handed a second term as the Senate President “to continue synergizing with Mr. President for a better Nigeria”.
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HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
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