Nigeria News (Standard)
Kaduna AATF Officials Urge Increased Funding for Improved Seeds, Biotechnology to Boost Yields
Foundation warns African countries risk prolonged food insecurity if donor reliance continues; calls for homegrown investment in innovation
Foundation warns African countries risk prolonged food insecurity if donor reliance continues; calls for homegrown investment in innovation
Officials of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) have called on government at all levels to increase funding for agricultural innovation, following gains recorded through improved seed varieties and biotechnology in Nigeria. The call was made during a training session held in Kaduna on Tuesday, as stakeholders reviewed progress in boosting crop productivity across the North-West and other regions.
Dr. Roy Mugiira, Senior Manager, Programme Development at AATF, stated that while Africa possesses strong scientific capacity and proven agricultural technologies, the continent remains behind global peers due to weak investment and over-reliance on external donors. He emphasised that ‘Africa is not short of solutions,’ but pointed out that without deliberate action to fund local innovation systems, food insecurity and low productivity will persist.
The training brought together experts, researchers and policymakers who examined how adoption of improved seeds and biotechnological tools has led to better yields for Nigerian farmers in recent years. According to AATF officials, these advancements have contributed to higher output per hectare and increased resilience against pests and diseases, especially in maize and cassava cultivation. However, they warned that widespread impact will only be achieved if national budgets prioritise research and farmer outreach.
Mugiira said during his presentation that ‘sustained commitment from both public and private sectors is required for Africa to meet its food needs.’ He urged state governments and the federal government to reduce dependence on international donors by allocating more resources for technology-driven solutions. The foundation also cautioned that failure to invest locally may result in continued reliance on imported food and external support.
Experts at the session highlighted that strengthening Nigeria’s seed system through better funding would not only increase productivity but also improve livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. Participants resolved to advocate for greater policy attention towards agricultural research, biotechnology development, and farmer access to improved inputs in the coming planting seasons.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Stocks: Fidson, Africa Prudential, Access Holdings Lead Weekly Top Picks
Market analysts highlight improved performance of key companies as investors seek safe bets amid economic uncertainty
Market analysts highlight improved performance of key companies as investors seek safe bets amid economic uncertainty
Fidson Healthcare, Africa Prudential, and Access Holdings have emerged as the leading stock picks on the Nigerian Exchange for this week, with market analysts pointing to their recent strong performance and resilience in a volatile economic environment. The selection was announced on Monday in Lagos, reflecting renewed investor interest in companies demonstrating stability and growth potential.
The stocks were chosen based on a review of their recent trading activity, profitability, and positive outlook within the pharmaceutical, financial services, and banking sectors. Analysts noted that Fidson Healthcare has continued to benefit from increased demand for essential medicines, while Africa Prudential’s digital transformation initiatives have attracted institutional investors. Access Holdings, one of Nigeria’s largest banking groups, also maintained robust returns despite broader sector headwinds.
This development comes as investors across Nigeria remain cautious due to persistent inflationary pressures and fluctuations in naira value. The Nigerian Exchange has witnessed heightened activity in defensive stocks as market participants look for companies capable of weathering macroeconomic shocks. Experts say the latest picks signal a preference for firms with consistent dividend records and sound management practices.
Although official statements from the selected companies were not immediately available as at press time, financial analysts stress that these picks could help guide both retail and institutional investors navigating current market uncertainties. They advise potential investors to conduct due diligence before making portfolio decisions.
Market watchers will be closely monitoring how these stocks perform through the week, especially in light of upcoming quarterly results and policy announcements from regulatory authorities. The focus remains on sectors that can deliver steady earnings growth despite economic challenges facing Nigeria.
Nigeria News (Standard)
U.S.-Based Athletes Arrive Lagos for Commonwealth Games Trials at YABATECH
AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos
AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos
Over 10 United States-based athletes arrived in Lagos on Friday for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) National Trials ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following flight delays caused by a thunderstorm. The event, initially scheduled to begin on Saturday at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), was shifted by one day to accommodate the late arrivals.
The athletes began arriving at YABATECH yesterday afternoon, with more expected as at press time. The delay in their arrival prompted organisers to postpone the highly anticipated men’s 100 metres final, which will now hold today instead of the original schedule. Among the foreign-based stars already present are Favour Ashe, Nyenuchi Okemgbo (400m hurdles), Chukwuebuka Enekwechi (shot put), Oyesade Olatoye (hammer throw and shot put), Dolapo Divine Oladipo (shot put and discus), and Obiageri Amaechi (discus).
The AFN National Trials serve as the major selection event for Nigerian athletes hoping to represent the country at the Commonwealth Games later this year. The influx of U.S.-based competitors is seen as a boost to Nigeria’s medal prospects, with many of these athletes having recorded impressive performances in recent international competitions.
An official from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria confirmed that the schedule was adjusted to ensure fair competition among all participants. “We had to move some events forward so that all qualified athletes can take part,” the official said. No official reaction has been received yet from local-based athletes or their coaches regarding the schedule change.
With more foreign-based competitors expected to arrive before the end of trials, stakeholders believe that this year’s selection process will be highly competitive. The final list of Team Nigeria representatives for the Commonwealth Games is expected to be released after completion of all events at YABATECH.
Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/u-s-based-athletes-flood-yabatech-for-commonwealth-games-national-trials/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abua, Bassey Clinch CBN Senior Tennis Titles at Abuja’s MKO Abiola Stadium
Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT
Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT
Canice Abua and Etoro Bassey emerged as champions in the men’s and women’s singles categories respectively at the 47th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Tennis Championship, which concluded at the Package B of MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Saturday. The tournament saw top local tennis talents battle for national honours over several days in the Federal Capital Territory.
Abua, who entered as the men’s top seed, delivered a commanding performance against defending champion and third seed Michael Akpan Emmanuel. The final ended in straight sets with Abua winning 6-1, 6-2, marking his first-ever triumph at this prestigious event after several previous attempts. In the women’s final, 18-year-old Etoro Bassey overcame a shaky start to defeat Ogunjobi Success 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and lift her maiden senior singles trophy.
The CBN Senior Tennis Championship remains a crucial fixture on Nigeria’s sports calendar, offering homegrown athletes a platform to showcase their skills and advance their careers. Abua’s victory is seen as a breakthrough for the experienced player who is currently part of Nigeria’s Davis Cup squad for 2026. For Bassey, her win signals the rise of new talent in women’s tennis as she steps up from junior ranks to senior competition.
Speaking after his victory, Abua dedicated his title to God. “I thank God for His mercy and making me proud to be who I am,” he said at the post-match presentation. Bassey also expressed gratitude for her support team and looked forward to more opportunities at the senior level.
With this year’s edition concluded, organisers and tennis stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting young talents and sustaining the annual championship. Attention will now shift to preparations for Nigeria’s Davis Cup campaign and other national competitions where both champions are expected to feature.
Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/abua-etoro-crowned-cbn-senior-tennis-champions/
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