Nigeria News (Standard)
Ibadan Scholars, Policymakers Push Digital, Gender-Inclusive Agric Extension Policy at Stakeholders’ Workshop
Experts at University of Ibadan event urge overhaul of extension services to boost farmer productivity and empower women
Experts at University of Ibadan event urge overhaul of extension services to boost farmer productivity and empower women
Scholars, policymakers, and agricultural experts convened in Ibadan, Oyo State on Wednesday for a major stakeholders’ workshop calling for the integration of digital technology and gender-responsive strategies into Nigeria’s agricultural extension policy framework. The event, held at the Innovation Lab for Policy Leadership in Agriculture and Food Security (PiLAF), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, was organised by Prof. Stella Odebode in collaboration with PiLAF and the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD).
The gathering brought together agricultural extension officers, development practitioners, and academics who agreed that current policies do not reflect the realities of rapid digital transformation or address the unique challenges faced by women farmers. Participants advocated a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s agricultural extension system to close digital gaps and ensure women benefit equally from advisory services.
Stakeholders noted that most rural farmers—especially women—are still left out from accessing modern information due to poor digital infrastructure and outdated policies. They warned that unless agricultural extension programmes incorporate digital tools and gender mainstreaming, farmer productivity will remain low and rural livelihoods will not improve as expected.
Prof. Stella Odebode, Head of Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development at University of Ibadan, said during her opening remarks: “We need to review our existing policies to address today’s realities. Digital inclusion is now critical for effective knowledge transfer. At the same time, our extension system must deliberately target gender disparities so women are not left behind.”
The workshop concluded with a call for government at all levels to support policy reforms that will embed digital platforms into extension delivery channels and provide targeted training for female farmers. Organisers said follow-up consultations would be held with federal authorities to push adoption of these recommendations nationwide.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Keystone Bank Launches EcoCycle Account to Boost Lagos Green Economy
Bank pledges financing and business advisory for recycling, waste management and sustainable manufacturing enterprises
Bank pledges financing and business advisory for recycling, waste management and sustainable manufacturing enterprises
Keystone Bank Limited has introduced the EcoCycle Account in Lagos, targeting businesses across Nigeria’s growing green economy. The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hassan Imam, as the bank moves to support enterprises engaged in recycling, waste management and eco-friendly manufacturing amid increasing demand for sustainable solutions.
According to Keystone Bank, the EcoCycle Account is designed to provide working capital, equipment financing and expansion funding on competitive terms for businesses operating within the circular economy. In addition to financial support, account holders will benefit from business advisory services and capacity-building opportunities through the bank’s MSME Online Academy.
The move comes as Nigeria witnesses a surge in entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in transforming waste materials into commercial products. However, many green businesses have struggled to access tailored financing required to scale their operations. Keystone Bank said its new offering aims to bridge this gap by supporting innovation and economic growth within the sector.
Imam stated that the EcoCycle Account forms part of Keystone Bank’s broader commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth. He explained that by combining funding options with training resources, the bank intends to equip business owners with both financial leverage and technical know-how needed for success in an evolving market.
Industry observers note that such initiatives could accelerate Nigeria’s adoption of circular economy practices while creating jobs and reducing environmental impact. As at press time, stakeholders in the green sector have welcomed the development as a step towards easing barriers faced by eco-focused micro, small and medium enterprises across the country.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador Secure World Cup Knockout Spots After Group Stage Victories
Both teams progress to the next round of the FIFA World Cup after decisive group matches on Friday, June 26
Both teams progress to the next round of the FIFA World Cup after decisive group matches on Friday, June 26
Côte d’Ivoire and Ecuador have advanced to the knockout phase of the ongoing FIFA World Cup after sealing victories in their final group stage fixtures on Friday, June 26. The decisive matches were played at various venues as the group stage concluded, with both sides earning enough points to guarantee their places in the next round of the competition.
Côte d’Ivoire delivered a strong performance in their final group match, securing the needed result to progress. Similarly, Ecuador’s victory ensured they finished among the top teams in their group, confirming their advancement. The outcomes were determined after a tense series of matches that kept fans across Africa and South America on edge.
The qualification of Côte d’Ivoire is significant for West African football, as it highlights the region’s continued presence at major international tournaments. For Ecuador, advancing to the knockout stage further cements their growing reputation on the world football stage. Both teams will now prepare for tougher challenges ahead as they face opponents from other groups in the high-stakes elimination rounds.
Football analysts have noted that Côte d’Ivoire’s disciplined defence and clinical finishing made the difference during their campaign so far. Ecuador’s squad was praised for its speed and resilience throughout the group matches. With expectations rising, coaches from both sides have promised to build on these performances as they look ahead to potentially historic runs in this year’s tournament.
The knockout fixtures will be announced by FIFA in due course, with fans eagerly awaiting details of who Côte d’Ivoire and Ecuador will face next. Nigerian supporters and African football enthusiasts are particularly keen to see how far Côte d’Ivoire can go as one of Africa’s representatives at this year’s World Cup.
Nigeria News (Standard)
France’s Tchouameni Urges Team to Honour Coach Deschamps Amid Personal Loss at World Cup
French midfielder calls for unity as Les Bleus prepare to compete while coach Didier Deschamps mourns family bereavement
French midfielder calls for unity as Les Bleus prepare to compete while coach Didier Deschamps mourns family bereavement
French national team midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni has rallied his teammates to show solidarity and commitment on the pitch as Coach Didier Deschamps faces a period of mourning during the ongoing FIFA World Cup. The development comes as the French squad continues its preparations for their next fixture, with attention focused on supporting their manager through a difficult personal moment.
Reports from the team’s camp indicate that Tchouaméni addressed the squad, stressing the importance of playing with extra determination in honour of Deschamps, who recently suffered a bereavement. The French camp in Europe has been marked by a somber mood, but players have reiterated their resolve to perform at their best despite the emotional weight affecting their coach.
The situation has drawn sympathy from football fans and analysts globally, given Deschamps’ long-standing influence over French football and his leadership of the national team to previous successes. Many Nigerians recall Deschamps’ role in France’s recent international triumphs and see his handling of personal adversity as an example of professionalism in sports.
While there has been no official statement from the French Football Federation regarding specific details of Deschamps’ loss, members of the squad have spoken about their desire to support him both on and off the field. Tchouaméni reportedly told teammates that victory in upcoming matches would be a fitting tribute to their manager’s dedication.
As France continues its World Cup campaign, focus remains on how the players channel this moment into cohesive performances. Observers expect that the team’s response could shape not only their prospects in the tournament but also serve as a lesson in unity for other teams facing adversity.
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France’s Tchouameni Urges Team to Honour Coach Deschamps Amid Personal Loss at World Cup
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