Category: Uncategorized

The Lagos State Government has stressed the need for the responsible use of technology in schools following the completion of a three-day training programme on digital pedagogy and Artificial Intelligence, AI, for selected secondary school teachers across the six education districts and the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB).

The workshop, themed “Digital Pedagogy And Artificial Intelligence (AI) For Teachers On GLs 15–17”, was held from Wednesday, April 8 to Friday, April 10, 2026, and ended with the issuance of a communiqué.

In a statement, the state government said the training, organised by the State Teaching Service Commission, was flagged off at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Hall as part of efforts to improve teaching and learning outcomes in public schools.

Speaking at the opening, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Ali-Balogun, described the introduction of AI-focused training as timely, noting that the education sector is rapidly evolving due to technological advancement.

He urged teachers to incorporate digital teaching methods, artificial intelligence and problem-solving skills into their classroom practice, stressing the need to stay updated with emerging techniques to remain effective.

Ali-Balogun noted that modern teaching strategies should promote creativity, productivity and mutual respect in the learning environment, adding that the initiative aligns with the education and technology pillar of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda.

He also commended the governor for his commitment to improving the education sector through continuous capacity development programmes for teachers.

In her welcome address, the Chairman of the State Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, said the training goes beyond the use of digital tools, describing it as a shift in mindset from teacher-centred to learner-centred teaching.

She said the programme is designed to boost teachers’ creativity and encourage the use of innovative teaching methods to support the state’s education and technology goals.

Peregrino urged participants to maximise the opportunity to improve their skills and enhance students’ performance, while remaining mindful of ethical considerations, including responsible use of technology and data privacy.

“To all the participants here today, remember that you are agents of change. I challenge you therefore not to allow the knowledge and skills you will acquire here to end in this room; cascade it to your colleagues and downlines. Let it have a ripple effect through your classrooms, your schools and your communities. You have the power to shape a generation that is not only digitally literate but also adaptable, ethical, and forward-thinking.”

“With this training, you will have the opportunity to critically examine and explore different types of digital pedagogy and Artificial Intelligence that can be used in the classroom and address practical concerns about its usage. But let me emphasise that AI is not a replacement for teachers, but a support system to strengthen your effectiveness in the classroom. Your role as educators remains central and irreplaceable,” she added.

Lagos trains teachers on artificial intelligence, digital learning

The Catholic Church has appointed Ernest Anaezichukwu Obodo as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Abakaliki following the death of Peter Nworie Chukwu.

The appointment was announced in a decree issued by the Dicastery for Evangelization, acting on the authority of Pope Leo XIV.

The decree, dated April 12, 2026, stated that the episcopal see of Abakaliki became vacant upon the death of Bishop Chukwu.

According to the decree, Bishop Obodo, who currently serves as Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Enugu, will administer the affairs of the Abakaliki Diocese during the period of vacancy and at the disposition of the Holy See.

The Vatican said the appointment was made after careful consideration and in accordance with the special faculties granted by the Pope.

As Apostolic Administrator, Bishop Obodo has been granted all the powers and responsibilities accorded by canon law to oversee the diocese pending the appointment of a substantive bishop.

The announcement was conveyed to members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference through a communication signed by Fr. Michael Banjo, Secretary General.

Bishop Chukwu’s death was described as “pious” in the decree, marking the end of his episcopal leadership in the Abakaliki Diocese.

With this development, Bishop Obodo is expected to steer the spiritual and administrative affairs of the diocese, ensuring continuity in pastoral activities until a new bishop is appointed by the Holy See.

Obodo takes charge of Abakaliki Diocese after Bishop Chukwu’s death

Collection of mineral royalties from mining sector operators across the country will henceforth be the responsibility of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), while the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development will continue its technical and regulatory oversight on the sector.

This was the outcome of a meeting between the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake and the NRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, held at the former’s office in Abuja on Thursday, to define collaborative ways of working together.

The decision was based on the new tax laws, which empower NRS to administer all federally collectable revenue and account for the same.

A statement made available to journalists on Friday by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser to the NRS chairman, said the decision, effective January 1, 2026, was contained in a joint statement endorsed by both Alake and Adedeji.

“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Nigeria Revenue Service wish to inform mining operators and the general public of the outcome of their meeting held on April 2, 2026, on the collaborative implementation of mineral royalty administration under the Nigeria Tax Laws 2025.

“Following the enactment of the laws by President Bola Tinubu on 26 June 2025, the administration of mineral royalties, effective January 1, 2026, has transitioned to NRS.

“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development continues to serve as a vital technical partner, providing mineral pricing data, geological information, and industry coordination in support of the royalty process.

“Both institutions have agreed to work closely together to ensure that operators are well-informed, and that the new royalty framework is implemented in a way that supports the growth and development of the solid minerals sector,” the statement said.

According to the statement, there will be a joint nationwide sensitisation programme for operators in the sector, particularly to guide royalty filing and payment as spelt out under the new tax laws.

The new royalty regime will also see the development of a modern, end-to-end digital royalty administration system. At the same time, joint technical sessions shall be held regularly to coordinate and resolve issues that may arise.

“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and NRS wish to assure mining operators and the public that both institutions are fully aligned and committed to working together to implement the new royalty framework in a manner that is orderly, transparent, and supportive of the mining sector.

“Operators are encouraged to continue meeting their filing and payment obligations as required under the new tax laws, and to participate actively in the forthcoming sensitisation programme,” the statement added.

New tax laws: NRS takes over collection of mineral royalties

Nigerian singer Lekan Osifeso Junior, popularly known as Lojay, has revealed that his initial thought about being a pop star was an opportunity to womanise.

Speaking in an episode of the I Said What I Said podcast, the Monalisa crooner explained that his perspective changed after he realised that, to have a long and successful career, he needed a certain level of sexual discipline.

“There is a lot of temptation in the music industry. You will see a lot of things, but you are not meant to touch. I used to think I would frolic with a lot of ladies because there are babes everywhere. But when you have about 100 girls talking to you, that is when you need to cultivate discipline.

“I realised if you want a long career like the Big 3, you have to stay away from too many girls,” he said.

Lojay also revealed that one of his cultural shocks in the music industry was that the lifestyles of other artists that used to entice him when he was an underground artist were not as appealing when he got into the mainstream.

He claimed that there is a lot more discipline in the music industry than many assume, stressing that musicians are mindful of their words and actions because they have reputations to protect.

He, however, admitted that his personality also helped him to be more disciplined than most of his colleagues in terms of womanising and extravagant lifestyle.

Why I changed my mind not to womanise – Singer Lojay

China on Monday called reports it had supplied or intended to supply weapons to Iran “baseless smears”, after several outlets quoted US intelligence sources to that effect.

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump threatened Beijing with a “staggering” new tariff of 50 percent if it were to provide military assistance to Tehran.

His comments came the same day US outlet CNN reported that US intelligence indicated China was preparing to deliver new air defence systems to Iran within the next few weeks, citing three people familiar with the assessments.

Over the weekend, The New York Times quoted US officials as saying US intelligence suggested Beijing might have already sent a shipment of shoulder-fired missiles.

China denied the reports, saying Monday it had “always adopted a cautious and responsible attitude towards the export of military items, implementing strict controls in accordance with its own export control laws and regulations and its international obligations”.

“We oppose baseless smears or malicious association,” foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a regular news briefing.

China is a key economic partner of Iran — it buys most of the Middle Eastern country’s oil.

The countries have no formal military pact, though, and many analysts say Beijing largely sees the relationship between the two as transactional.

China also has strong economic ties to the Gulf countries and has criticised Iran’s attacks on them over the course of the war.

AFP

The post China rejects claims of supplying weapons to Iran appeared first on Vanguard News.

The Nigerian Army says troops recorded major operational gains, including the interception of suspected logistics supplies, foiling terrorist attacks and rescuing kidnapped victims across theatres in the last 24 hours.

An operational report made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday revealed that troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) intercepted a truck conveying large quantities of medical supplies suspected to be meant for terrorist elements in the North-East.

The report said the interception occurred at a checkpoint in Nguru, Yobe, where the driver initially presented a waybill for beverages and household items.

According to the report, a detailed search revealed hundreds of cartons of drugs, including antibiotics, injections, bandages and other medical items.

The report said the driver and three occupants were apprehended, adding that the suspect later confessed the consignment was bound for the Republic of Chad through Geidam.

“In a related development, troops arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS terrorist in Ngamdu, Borno, who confessed he was sent from Jilli to procure food items for insurgents.

“The suspect disclosed that terrorists were currently converging around Gubio and Magumeri areas.

“Troops also arrested two suspected terrorist collaborators in Monguno, who were allegedly facilitating movement of a terrorist’s family members.

“Items recovered from them included mobile phones, cash and other personal effects, while a woman and her three children linked to a terrorist kingpin were later apprehended,” the report said.

It also revealed that troops foiled an attempted infiltration by terrorists in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno.

The report added that troops engaged the insurgents during an ambush, forcing them to flee and abandon weapons and other items, adding that follow-up operations led to the rescue of three kidnapped victims from a terrorist enclave.

“In Bama Local Government Area, troops destroyed a terrorist camp during clearance operations, forcing insurgents to withdraw under pressure.

“Similarly, troops of Operation Safe Haven recovered weapons from suspects during stop-and-search operations in Plateau.

“They also arrested a suspected gunrunner and rescued additional kidnapped victims in Bauchi following exploitation of earlier airstrikes.

“In the Federal Capital Territory, troops conducting anti-illegal mining operations raided a site in Gwagwalada, recovering mining equipment, while suspects fled,” it added.

In the Southern part of the country, the report said troops of Operation Delta Safe responded to a communal clash in Delta, restoring normalcy after one person was killed.

It said troops also intensified anti-illegal bunkering operations in Rivers, destroying illegal refining sites and recovering large volumes of stolen crude oil and refined products.

Military authorities reiterated their commitment to sustaining offensive operations, disrupting logistics networks and ensuring security across the country. (NAN)

The post Troops intercept medical supplies, foil terrorist attacks, rescue abductees appeared first on Vanguard News.

Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, has warned Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal that they will get ‘pumped’ by Manchester City if they set up to play for a draw.

Man City will host Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium after thrashing Chelsea 3-0 on Sunday.

Arsenal, on the other hand, were defeated 2-1 against Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said, “If you [Arsenal] go there [Man City] and sit back like Liverpool did at PSG the other day, it’s slapsville.

“You are getting pumped. You can’t do that. Do you win leagues doing that?”

Arsenal currently sit at the top of the Premier League table with six points ahead of City. Guardiola’s side did have a game in hand.

EPL: You’ll get pumped, can’t do that against Man City – Rio Ferdinand warns Arsenal

The Federal Government has taken a step towards the rollout of a national food support initiative, with the activation of a steering committee to oversee its implementation across the country.

The development was disclosed in a statement shared on April 12 2026, on the official page of the Federal Ministry of Health.

According to the statement, the committee held its inaugural meeting in Abuja as part of efforts to coordinate the National Community Food Bank Programme.

Speaking at the meeting, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate, urged members to focus on execution, stressing that the programme must deliver real impact for vulnerable Nigerians.

“This Committee must ensure that implementation is not only coordinated, but effective. This is not about meetings, but about results that improve the lives of Nigerians,” he said.

It was further noted that an initiative of Oluremi Tinubu, is aimed at addressing malnutrition and strengthening food and nutrition support systems at the community level across the 774 local government areas.

The ministry explained that the committee comprises representatives from key government institutions, including ministries responsible for humanitarian affairs, agriculture, women affairs, and health, as well as relevant agencies.

According to the statement, the committee is expected to provide oversight, ensure coordination among stakeholders and track progress as the programme is implemented nationwide.

It added that the initiative will focus on improving nutrition outcomes and reducing vulnerability, particularly among underserved communities.

The Federal Government noted that the programme is scheduled for official flag-off in Borno later in April.

FG moves to launch food bank programme, sets up committee for nationwide rollout

A long truck conveying goods, on Sunday, crashed into a fence of a building in Osisioma, along the Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway, resulting in the death of a male victim.

The male victim, according to residents of Osisioma, recently returned from an Asian country where he resides.

DAILY POST gathered that the driver of the truck loaded with goods, suddenly lost control on the expressway and rammed into the fence where it hit a motorcyclist and two other males.

The impact of the crash resulted in the death of one victim, while two other persons who were seriously injured were evacuated and rushed to the hospital by officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Abia State Sector Command.

It is not yet established if the accident was caused by over speeding or break failure as a full official report is still being awaited from relevant agencies.

When contacted by DAILY POST for confirmation, the Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC Abia State Sector Command, Ngozi Ezeoma said the sad event happened.

“Yes. The truck rammed into the fence and hit an Okada man.

“Three male adults were involved and one died”, she said.

Abroad-based man crushed as truck rams into building in Aba

The immediate past chairman of Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Hon. Shehu Sule Udi, has defected to the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC).

DAILY POST reports that Udi, a close ally of former Jigawa State Governor and ex-Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a deviation from the party’s founding ideals as the reason for his decision.

His subsequent defection was contained in a statement made available to DAILY POST, where he expressed dissatisfaction with the current direction of his former political platform at the local, state and national levels.

Declaring his new political affiliation, Udi stated: “I, Hon. Shehu Sule Udi, hereby formally and publicly declare that I have officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC)

“I make this declaration with full conviction and commitment to the party’s vision and principles.”

He also pledged his loyalty and active participation in advancing the party’s agenda, particularly in promoting democratic development and good governance.

Udi’s defection, however, has generate reactions in Ringim Local Government, where he is widely regarded as a strong grassroots mobiliser.

Political observers note that his move is a significant boost to the ADC, given his established political structure and influence among voters at the community level.

They also suggest that Udi’s entry into the ADC may attract more defections, particularly his supporters, expanding the ADC’s reach beyond Ringim.

However, some members of his former party have downplayed the impact of his exit, insisting that the party remains strong and will continue to retain its dominance in the local government.

Jigawa council chairman dumps APC, joins ADC