The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has applauded the judiciary for its enhanced comprehension of deposit insurance practices, a development that is expected to bolster the stability of the nation’s financial system.

Mr. Bello Hassan, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NDIC, extended this commendation during his opening address at the 2023 Sensitization Seminar, a collaborative effort between the Corporation and the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

The seminar was specifically tailored for Judges of the Federal High Courts and revolved around the theme: “Strengthening Depositors Confidence in Banks and Other Financial Institutions through Speedy Dispensation of Justice.”

Hassan underscored the overarching goal of the Deposit Insurance Scheme in Nigeria, emphasizing that its primary mission is to safeguard depositors in the event of insured institutions’ failure. This, in turn, aims to instill confidence among depositors and curtail the occurrence of bank runs within the financial system.

The NDIC’s top executive recognized the indispensable role of the judiciary in the Corporation’s efficient execution of its mandate. He pointed out that the judiciary plays a critical role in resolving disputes that frequently arise from processes like the revocation of banking licenses, liquidation of failed banks, and the termination of liquidation activities.

While acknowledging that the NDIC has grappled with various challenges since its inception, including misconceptions regarding its mandate and the fundamental principles of Deposit Insurance, Mr. Hassan expressed gratitude that the seminar organized in conjunction with the NJI has yielded a better understanding of the Corporation’s distinct roles among members of the legal community and the judiciary.

This newfound comprehension, he asserted, will lead to the expedited resolution of cases involving banks in liquidation, ultimately contributing to the stability of Nigeria’s financial system.

To further enhance awareness of Deposit Insurance practices and related laws, Hassan disclosed that previous editions of this annual seminar have resulted in the publication of papers compiled by the Corporation.

These papers have been consolidated into two volumes, entitled “Law and Practice of Deposit Insurance in Nigeria,” and are meant to serve as a valuable reference for stakeholders. Importantly, these publications are being disseminated free of charge to stakeholders within the financial industry.

The collaborative efforts of the NDIC and the National Judicial Institute underscore the importance of a well-informed judiciary in upholding the stability of Nigeria’s financial system and safeguarding the interests of depositors. As the legal community gains a deeper understanding of deposit insurance practices, it is anticipated that the financial landscape in Nigeria will become more resilient and secure.

In a significant move aimed at enhancing building safety across Nigeria, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) inaugurated a 10-member committee tasked with overseeing the insurance of public buildings and structures under construction.

The Commissioner for Insurance (CFI), Sunday Thomas, who presided over the inauguration at the end of the 2-day ‘National Insurance Conference 2023’ in Abuja on Tuesday, expressed optimism about the transformative impact this move would have on the insurance industry and the safety of public buildings.

In his statement, he said, “The insurance industry will never remain the same, and the safety of public buildings will be redefined.”

The committee’s responsibilities will encompass data collection, continuous monitoring, comprehensive reporting, and the organization of regular meetings to assess the state of insurance coverage within the sector.

The committee will play a pivotal role in bolstering building safety and minimizing risks associated with construction and occupancy.

One of the primary objectives of this initiative is to effectively mitigate the unfortunate instances of building collapses that have plagued Nigeria in recent years.

Such incidents have not only resulted in loss of life but also in significant property damage.

These incidents have raised concerns about the need for improved safety measures and better insurance coverage within the construction and real estate sector.

By overseeing this critical area, the committee aims to address these concerns and bring about a positive change.

Building collapses in Nigeria have been a longstanding issue that has affected both urban and rural areas, leading to tragic consequences for individuals and communities.

These incidents have been attributed to various factors, including poor construction practices, inadequate building inspections, and a lack of comprehensive insurance coverage.

The committee’s activities will provide a solution to these issues by promoting the adoption of rigorous building standards, continuous monitoring, and an improved insurance framework for builders and property owners.

It will focus on developing an integrated approach to enhance building safety and ensure that insurance coverage aligns with the dynamic needs of the construction industry.

The committee is committed to transparency, accountability, and regular reporting to NAICOM, thereby creating a mechanism for identifying and addressing challenges that may arise in the course of its activities.

Any issues or obstacles encountered will be escalated to the government for prompt resolution, further strengthening the partnership between regulatory bodies and the construction industry.

The launch of this committee represents a positive step toward building safety in Nigeria, as it seeks to safeguard lives, property, and investments by promoting responsible construction practices and comprehensive insurance coverage.

By addressing the recurring issue of building collapses, this initiative has the potential to significantly enhance public safety, instill confidence in the construction sector, and promote a more robust insurance industry.

It is a clear demonstration of the commitment of NAICOM and the entire insurance sector to improving building safety standards and protecting the interests of the Nigerian people.

The Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI), in collaboration with the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA), and other partners, is advocating for the complete enforcement of the Disability Discrimination Act 2019.

This call was made during a training workshop for journalists and editors on Inclusive Investigation Training on Accountability in Governance.

The groups expressed concern over the persistent abuse, stigmatization, and discrimination against People with Disabilities (PWDs) in the country.

Mrs. Adaora Onyechere Jack, the Executive Director of GSAI, pointed out that despite the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2019, which aimed to integrate persons with disabilities fully into society, marginalization remains a significant issue.

The training workshop sought to raise awareness about the Act, particularly as its trial period concludes in January 2024.

Jack stressed the importance of changing the narrative around people with disabilities, noting that many of their engagements and stories are framed negatively.

“The goal is to empower reporters to provide inclusive coverage and to remind the media that inclusive reporting is essential for a thriving democracy”. She said

Mrs Jack also highlighted the significance of data-driven research, advocacy, partnership, and gender justice in advancing the cause of inclusivity for persons with disabilities.

She encouraged the media to engage with and empower reporters to ensure they have a thorough understanding of the rights and issues concerning persons with disabilities.

Bilikisu Yakubu, the National Coordinator of Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI), highlighted the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, especially women.

She emphasized the need for greater involvement of women with disabilities in decision-making processes to address their specific needs.

Yakubu also called for prioritizing the 35 percent affirmative action to provide women with opportunities in government and other aspects of life.

Despite the struggles against stigmatization and discrimination, she remains optimistic about progress in the recognition and inclusion of women with disabilities.

The Discrimination Against Persons Prohibition Act, which was signed into law in 2019, is aimed at eliminating discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

It is designed to empower individuals with disabilities and protect them from being treated as objects of charity.

The Act is seen as a landmark in the ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and equality for the disabled community in Nigeria.

Advocates emphasize that while progress has been made since the enactment of the Act, there is still much work to be done.

They acknowledge that there has been improvement in the treatment and inclusion of persons with disabilities, but more efforts are required to achieve a fully accessible and inclusive society.

One of the key aspects that the Act addresses is the need for accessible facilities, infrastructures, and institutions to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities.

The Act includes a provision for a five-year transition period, which is set to end in January 2024.

During this time, the government is expected to have made significant strides in providing inclusive transportation, schools, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

This transition period is a critical phase in the journey toward full inclusivity, and advocates are calling for a swift and comprehensive implementation of the Act to meet the set goals.

Femi Olaleye, the managing director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping his wife’s niece.

The judge, Rahman Oshodi of the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence in Lagos, found the doctor guilty on Tuesday.

Mr Olaleye was arraigned on a two-count charge of defilement and sexual assault by penetration of his wife’s niece, offences which he was alleged to have committed between March 2020 and November 2021.

The defendant was arraigned on November 30, 2022, and he pleaded not guilty to the offences.

“Femi Olaleye, I have convicted you of defilement and sexual assault by penetration. This charge has a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.

Accordingly, I sentenced you to life imprisonment on count one and two. On each count, the sentencing will run concurrently,” the judge ruled.

Backstory

The prosecution presented at least seven witnesses. However, one was “withdrawn.”

The witnesses include the defendant’s wife, who reported the case to the police, the alleged survivor, (name withheld); a child forensic specialist; Bisi Ajayi-Kayode, a police inspector, Esther Igbineweka; a medical examiner, Akinbunmi Oyebimpe and Abe Leonard; a police officer.

Judgment

In his ruling, the judge said he believes the testimony of the survivor that the defendant raped the survivor and forcefully inserted his penis into her mouth.

He dismissed the claim of the defendant that the survivour was tutored and tortured to say she was raped, adding that the survivour was “consistent” with her testimony.

The judge also rejected the arguments of the defense team that the survivor was 18 years old when the incident happened and that the survivour had sexual intercourse with two adults at their residence.

The sexual abuse came with a threat. The defendant had groomed the prosecutory (referring to the survivor) with pornography,” the judge said.

“The prosecutory did not consent and did not willingly suck his penis.

I’m satisfied with prosecutory’s evidence that the defendant had sex with her and inserted his penis in her mouth and ejaculated.

“I believe the prosecutory that he forced her to suck his penis. I believe that the first time he had sex with her, blood gushed out of her vagina. Her evidence greatly implicates the defendant.”

On the argument of financial motivation, the judge held that the issues raised by the defendant that his wife was motivated by financial gains was to “deflate” the evidence of sexual abuse.

The defense lawyer had claimed that the survivour was tutored by the defendant’s wife to lie against him as part of the scheme to take over his properties.

“The defendant said his wife was motivated by financial gains, including taking the family home in Maryland, Lagos, Mercedes Benz, money in their joint account and custody of their two children,” the judge ruled.

Sentence

The judge ruled that the prosecution team was able to prove beyond reasonable doubt counts one and two filed against the defendant.

“I, therefore, feel satisfied that the prosecutor has established that (a) the prosecutory was a child by section 261 of the Child Rights Law of Lagos state 2015, the defendant had sexual intercourse with her by putting his penis in her vagina, the defendant also forced his penis into her mouth and ejaculated,” the judge ruled.

“I must conclude that the prosecution has established counts one and two against the defendant beyond reasonable doubt. I, therefore, find the defendant guilty as charged.”

The judge said that Mr Olaleye must be confined to the prison for a long period of time to convey that the justice system frowns at sexual violence.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) celebrated a significant milestone as it marked the first anniversary of its AI Developers Training (NAIDT) program.

Originally known as the NITDA Developers Group (NDG) Training, NAIDT has emerged as a critical initiative aimed at accelerating the technological prowess of young Nigerians in the ever-evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

With AI being one of the most sought-after tech talents in today’s digital landscape, this program has become a beacon of hope for aspiring AI enthusiasts.

Under the wings of NAIDT and with unwavering support from volunteers associated with the Google Developers Group (GDG), NITDA has successfully empowered numerous Nigerian youth, guiding them on a transformative journey.

The program not only promises to change their lives but also radiates a positive domino effect that will resonate throughout society.

The foundation of NAIDT rests on NITDA’s “Learn, Teach, and Earn” philosophy. Graduates of the program have not only become proficient in AI but have also transformed into instructors. This approach fosters a continuous cycle of learning, teaching, and financial empowerment.

Former participants are now taking the lead as they teach and mentor the next generation of tech enthusiasts while enhancing their own financial standing through the earnings generated from the program.

As NITDA and GDG join in celebrating NAIDT’s first anniversary, they have much to be proud of. The program has achieved remarkable success, not only by upskilling Nigerian youths but also by inspiring participants to establish innovation-driven startups.

Names like ElonosiaAI, FundusAI, and Gyronics have already emerged as symbols of innovation and creativity. Others have taken on roles as ambassadors for tech giants like Microsoft, and some have started offering their services to foreign companies while residing in Nigeria.

Over the course of one year, NAIDT has conducted 12 cohorts, training a total of 2,785 Nigerians from diverse walks of life.

The program welcomes participants ranging from NYSC corps members and graduates to secondary school students and artisans. Training encompasses a wide spectrum of AI domains, including machine learning, data analytics, and other areas such as natural language processing (NLP).

Participants are also introduced to the utilization of AI tools like ChatGPT to harness the capabilities of large language models.

On this special occasion, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director-General of NITDA, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the program’s beneficiaries. He pledged to continue supporting startups that emerge from the program, ensuring they thrive in the tech ecosystem. Mr. Abdullahi expressed his gratitude to GDG for their unwavering commitment to the program’s success.

Despite these achievements, the Director-General noted the underrepresentation of female participants, with women constituting less than 10% of the program’s attendees. He issued a challenge to GDG, urging them to innovate and find solutions that promote gender balance in AI training, such as developing specialized programs aimed at empowering women in AI and other emerging technologies.

This emphasis on inclusivity demonstrates NITDA’s commitment to ensuring that all aspiring AI talents, regardless of gender, have an equal opportunity to participate and succeed in the program.

In a prestigious accolade, Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), has been granted an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Science (Honoris Causa) by the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) in Kogi State.

The formal conferral of this honorary degree took place during the joint 6th and 7th Convocation Ceremony, which occurred recently at the Permanent Site of FUL in Lokoja, Kogi State.

During the award presentation, Professor Olayinka Akinwumi, the Vice Chancellor of the University, highlighted Dr. Ernest Umakhihe’s remarkable contributions to the agricultural sector and national development, characterizing him as an exemplary administrator and achiever. Professor Akinwumi commended Dr. Umakhihe for his pivotal role in the establishment of an Agribusiness Incubation Centre (AIC) within the University, as well as the development of an access road connecting the AIC to the University Farm.

Furthermore, the Vice-Chancellor called upon other prominent Nigerians to emulate Dr. Umakhihe’s commitment to serving the nation by leveraging their positions to contribute to its development. He applauded Dr. Umakhihe for his unwavering dedication to national service and his role as an inspirational leader to those who work alongside him.

In his response, Dr. Umakhihe expressed his gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, the University’s management, and its entire staff for bestowing this significant honor upon him. He dedicated the award to his beloved wife, family, friends, honorable ministers, and the entire team at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.