UN-backed project aims to boost humanitarian access in North-East; UK government provides funding through UNHAS initiative

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), on Thursday unveiled a new humanitarian aviation facility valued at $3.4 million (₦4.7 billion) at Muhammadu Bukarti International Airport, Maiduguri, Borno State. The project, funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDC) via the United Nations Humanitarian Air Services (UNHAS), is designed to support relief operations for vulnerable populations in North-East Nigeria.

During the commissioning ceremony in Maiduguri, WFP Country Director—represented by Emmanuel Begenimana—explained that the new complex would enhance humanitarian access across the region. According to Begenimana, “UNHAS infrastructure development for an enhanced humanitarian access to the vulnerable populations in North-East Nigeria.”

The facility comprises a dedicated passenger terminal, office building, cargo office, flight planning centre, as well as upgraded security systems and sustainable energy infrastructure. WFP said these investments are expected to improve the speed, safety and reliability of humanitarian flights within the crisis-affected region while also contributing lasting assets to Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Begenimana noted that the modern complex was built specifically for humanitarian operations and would strengthen coordination among agencies responding to ongoing needs in Borno and neighbouring states. He stated, “The investment in this facility improves the speed, safety and reliability of humanitarian air services while leaving a lasting legacy for Nigeria’s aviation sector.”

FAAN officials commended the partnership with WFP and international donors for supporting relief efforts amid persistent security challenges in North-East Nigeria. Stakeholders at the event expressed hope that similar collaborations would be replicated across other crisis zones to facilitate timely delivery of aid.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/aviation-business/wfp-faan-unveil-3-4m-unhas-facility-in-northeast/

Omoyemi Akerele says new blueprint urges African ownership as sector exports ₦22.1trn textiles but imports finished goods

Lagos Fashion Week unveiled ‘The Blueprint for a Regenerative Fashion Future’ in London on Thursday, presenting Africa’s first comprehensive manifesto aimed at transforming the fashion industry through sustainability and local ownership. The landmark document was launched during London Climate Action Week by the African Fashion Coalition, with support from Lagos Fashion Week and The Earthshot Prize.

The event brought together leading African designers, sustainability advocates, educators and entrepreneurs to develop a framework centred on circularity, inclusion and climate resilience. According to organisers, the manifesto builds on centuries of African knowledge in craftsmanship and community innovation, advocating for a shift towards regenerative production systems that benefit both people and the environment.

Speaking at the launch, Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Executive Director of Lagos Fashion Week—and a recipient of the 2025 Earthshot Prize—emphasised Africa’s historical contribution to global fashion. She noted that while the continent exports about US$15 billion (₦22.1trn) in raw textiles annually, it still imports more than US$23 billion (₦33.9trn) worth of finished clothing and footwear. Akerele described this gap as an issue of ownership rather than talent: “The resources are ours. The value is theirs. We are celebrated as a source of inspiration but shut out of the industry we inspire,” she said at the event.

The Manifesto emerged from extensive workshops and stakeholder consultations led by Lagos Fashion Week and The Earthshot Prize. Contributors included key figures such as Simone Smit, Director of Africa at The Earthshot Prize; Jackie May, Founder of Twyg; Adama Paris, Founder of Dakar Fashion Week; Mahlet Teklemariam, Hub of Africa Fashion Week; Liz Ricketts, The OR Foundation; Renee Neblett, Kokrobitey Institute; and Sunny Dolat from The Nest Collective.

Simone Smit stated that Africa is now leading in environmental innovation within fashion: “Earthshot solutions are right at the heart of it. The most impactful responses combine innovation with local knowledge,” she said.

The document outlines ten pillars—including cultural heritage preservation, intellectual property protection, waste justice, infrastructure development and conscious consumption—to guide investments and policy towards a more resilient sector across Africa. The coalition is inviting individuals and organisations to endorse the blueprint by signing up on www.lagosfashionweek.com.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/lagos-fashion-week-presents-africas-first-manifesto-for-a-regenerative-fashion-industry-2026062713214810483

Electoral commission urges residents to disregard viral social media claims, assures continuous voter registration ongoing

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has debunked widespread reports circulating on social media that it has suspended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Delta State. The commission clarified its position on Saturday, assuring residents across the state that registration activities are proceeding as scheduled.

According to INEC, the rumour of a suspension began spreading on various online platforms earlier in the week, causing confusion among prospective registrants and stakeholders in Delta. The commission stated there has been no official directive to halt the CVR exercise and described the viral messages as misleading.

The continuous voter registration is a critical process ahead of upcoming elections, allowing new voters to register and those with issues on the voter roll to update their details. With heightened political activities in Delta State and across the South-South geopolitical zone, INEC’s clarification aims to maintain public confidence in the electoral process.

INEC urged members of the public to rely only on official information released by its offices or verified channels. The commission also advised residents not to fall for misinformation that could disenfranchise eligible voters. “We want to assure Deltans that our offices remain open for CVR as at today,” an INEC spokesperson said.

The commission reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections. It encouraged eligible persons who are yet to register or update their details to visit designated centres before the exercise concludes.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/891110-inec-debunks-viral-claim-on-cvr-suspension-in-delta.html