CC™ VideoSpective
CREDITS: TRANSATLANTIC PRODUCTIONS
Saturday
University of Lagos (UNILAG) Inducts 45 Medical Laboratory Scientists
CC™ PersPective
By Chioma Obinna
Forty-five medical laboratory science graduates, including two from Ladoke Akintola University, were inducted into the profession by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Representing MLSCN Registrar/CEO Professor Tosan Erhabor, Dr. Gregory Uchuno, emphasised the council’s commitment to regulating and advancing the profession.
Uchuno congratulated the graduates and highlighted the 12 students who achieved first-class honors, including top graduate Akinkwa Joshua.
He expressed hope that their success would inspire future generations of medical laboratory scientists.
The MLSCN also pledged to reward the best graduating students.
Addressing the audience, Uchuno praised UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Professor Folashade and her team for their contributions to the growth of the Medical Laboratory Science program.
He urged training institutions to collaborate with the MLSCN to develop professionals who can address the challenges in the Nigerian health sector.
He stressed the importance of improving local healthcare infrastructure and services to reduce the trend of citizens seeking medical care abroad.
“It is our priority, it is our patriotic duty, to change the unflattering narrative of a few citizens continually seeking quality diagnosis in other climes, while the rest bemoan the existential lack of access to quality healthcare,” Uchuno stated.
He also acknowledged the support received from senior medical laboratory scientists who continue to contribute their expertise to the MLSCN.
Uchuno encouraged the inductees to embrace the opportunities ahead and to gain practical experience before venturing abroad.
“Classroom work is not like bench work,” he cautioned, emphasising the importance of skill development. While acknowledging the trend of professionals seeking opportunities abroad, he urged them to contribute to the Nigerian health sector before leaving.
He suggested that improved equipment, salaries, and overall working conditions could help retain talent within the country. He revealed that out of the 47,000 medical laboratory scientists trained in Nigeria, approximately 20,000 have left the country.
Speaking, the Guest lecturer, Anyanwu Ikechukwu Charles of DCL Laboratory Products Ltd., challenged the graduates to contribute to national development. He emphasised the need for patriotism and urged them to bring back their acquired knowledge and skills to Nigeria.
He encouraged the graduates to consider establishing mega-laboratories rather than numerous smaller ones to improve quality control and resource utilisation.
“It is not all about making money. It is also about national development. It’s about tomorrow. It’s about our youth. It’s about the future of the country,” Anyanwu stated.
Speaking, Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science at UNILAG, Professor Kolawole Oyedeji, presented the 43 UNILAG and 2 LAUTECH graduates.
He highlighted the remarkable achievement of the graduating class, with approximately 30 percent earning first-class honors, a testament to the dedication of the faculty.
He declared that the department, in its 8th induction, is a leading force in medical laboratory science education in Nigeria, producing highly sought-after professionals globally.
On his part, the best graduating student, Joshua Adepoju, shared his journey to medical laboratory science, explaining that his initial interest in medicine and surgery led him to discover his passion for laboratory research.
VANGUARD NEWS
Friday
FG to cancel visa-on-arrival (Fulani-on-arrival) policy, to introduce landing, exit cards
CC™ Global News
By Staff
The Federal government has announced plans to cancel its Visa-on-Arrival policy, saying “it is not working”. Accordingly, government is set to introduce landing and exit cards which prospective visitors would pre-fill before coming into the country.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo spoke on Friday during the closing ceremony of the week long capacity building training on Advance Passenger Information / Passenger Name Record API/PNR Data in National Security and Law Enforcement held at the headquarters of the Nigeria Immigration Service NIS in Abuja.
According to him, some persons of interest have been trying to evade the new systems out in place across Nigeria’s five international airports. He said intelligence has revealed that such persons now travel to neighbouring countries in order to access Nigeria through its vast land borders.
Consequently, he said the ministry will work with relevant partners to deploy the API/PNR system across its land borders, noting that Nigeria cannot be a destination for criminals.
At the event, Comptroller General Immigration Service CGIS, Kemi Nandap said the programme originated from discussions held with the United Nations Organization on Counter Terrorism in Bangkok, Thailand last year. Nandap said the immigration service has a crop of well-trained and patriotic personnel who are ready to give their best to the country.
Objective profiling
The Interior minister said the API/PNR is not optional, recalling that system was not on place when he was made minister. He said; “What the API, PNR gives us is objectivity in decision making, objective profiling, not subjective profiling. What we had was subjective. The visa system, that is one of the core, because I always tell people the visa is not just an approval of entry, it is a migration management device. It is a security device to manage migration into your country. So the way it is at the moment is very subjective. We are not really too objective and that is why we are automating the whole process end-to-end. And the e-visa solution, we are working hard to be able to meet the first of March or peradventure if we are unable, the 1st of April, we will hit it live.
“We automate the system. People apply online and we will do what we need to do. That solution will be integrated with the Interpol system, the criminal records system, so that we can be able to take decisions. We do not want foreign attachés approving and issuing visas. It is not going to be that any more, we want to be able to screen people more. This cannot be a destination for wanted criminals in the world. Nigeria is not a safe haven for any criminal and it will never be.
“Another thing we are trying to do even for our expatriates is to see how we can integrate all these our immigration solutions. What we are doing is to harmonize all these solutions in our data centre, harmonize the database and be able to let the solutions speak to one another rather than having solutions in silos. “We want to have integrated solutions. So what we are looking at is that for any decision that borders on immigration into Nigeria, it will be impossible for approvals to be given without the clearance of interpol, criminal records system and all background checking agencies in real time. Security is not a sector where you can afford to be 99.9% correct.
“People must fill the landing card which will be integrated with the visa solution, integrated with the passport solution, then to all background checking systems across the world before you come. So we will be able to share this data with other agencies and across the world. This is to sanitize the process. A scenario where it is difficult for NIS,on the tip of a finger, to tell me the number of foreigners who are into Nigeria is unacceptable. A scenario where somebody comes into Nigeria, disappears, and becomes untraceable is unacceptable. A scenario where there is abuse of immigration policies and processes is unacceptable. A scenario where somebody needs to come to Nigeria, stay for six months, waiting to regularize the residency in Nigeria is unacceptable. It is not done anywhere in the world. So we are going to bring these massive reforms and these reforms start between March 1 and April 1. Why we are trying to do these is to be able to safeguard our people, is for us to be responsible in the comity of Nations, and for us to be able to contribute our fair quota to international peace”, he added.
FG approves relocation of 29 custodial centres
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has approved the relocation of 29 out of Nigeria’s 256 Custodial Centres due to rapid urbanization. Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this on Friday in ABUJA when he commissioned 39 mini green maria for conveyance of inmates to and from courts, and five bullet resistant guard booths at the headquarters of the Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS in Abuja. The minister also explained the idea behind the establishment of a paramilitary academy, saying paramilitary jobs are not poverty alleviation schemes but lifelong careers that young Nigerians should aspire to get.
Thursday
HUNGER: THE DRIVE THAT SEPARATES MEN
By Gbenga Owotoki
There is a reason why some rise in God and others remain where they have always been. It is not luck. It is not chance. It is hunger. Not the kind that fades when prayers are answered, but the kind that burns even when nothing seems to be happening. The kind that makes a man restless until he touches what men before him only dreamt of.
Hunger is the difference between those who encounter God and those who only talk about Him. It was hunger that made Moses cry, "Show me Your glory!" even after he had seen the Red Sea part. It was hunger that made Jacob wrestle till daybreak, refusing to let go until he was changed. It was hunger that made Elisha follow Elijah till the very end, not satisfied with being called a prophet's servant, but desperate for the double portion.
God does not waste Himself on men who are satisfied too easily. He walks past those who think they have arrived and invests in those who are still searching, still yearning, still desperate for more. Because when hunger dies, pursuit dies. And when pursuit dies, encounters cease.
Many have lost their fire, not because they sinned, but because they settled. They prayed, but they stopped pressing. They worshipped, but they stopped wondering if there was more. They saw God move once and built a monument around it, forgetting that the cloud moves, that the river flows, that yesterday's outpouring is not enough for today.
This is why some men burn, and others barely flicker. It is why some grow until they shake nations, while others plateau into irrelevance. Because hunger is not an emotion-it is a law in the Spirit. Those who have it will be filled. Those who don't will be replaced.
Jesus stood in the temple and cried, "If any man thirsts, let him come unto me and drink." Not if any man is talented. Not if any man is influential. Not if any man is well-connected. But if any man thirsts-because God's power does not follow titles, it follows desperation.
Some of us are in a season where God is testing our hunger. He has not answered yet-not because He cannot, but because He is watching to see if we will give up too soon. He has not opened the door-not because it is locked, but because He is measuring how far we are willing to push. If what you are asking for can be abandoned after one delay, then you were never truly hungry for it.
This is not the time to retreat. This is not the time to let tiredness win. This is the time to stretch, to press, to cry out like blind Bartimaeus who refused to be silenced, to knock like the woman who troubled the unjust judge until he responded. Because in this Kingdom, it is not the passive who inherit promises-it is the desperate.
Let your hunger rise again. Let your pursuit intensify. Heaven is watching to see who will hold on, who will press in, who will refuse to let go until the heavens tear open and something shifts.
Wednesday
DEVELOPING THE SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE
CC™ PersPective
By Amos Dada Ph.D.
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Col 3:23-24
In today’s world, excellence is often equated with perfection or success. However, from a biblical perspective, the spirit of excellence is much deeper—it’s about consistently doing the best with the gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given you, for His glory. This spirit is marked by diligence, integrity, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The spirit of excellence is an attitude that strives for quality in every aspect of life. It is not about competition or perfectionism but about giving your best as an act of worship to God.
Daniel – A Model of Excellence: Daniel 6:3 – “Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.” Daniel stood out in Babylon not just because of his wisdom but because of his integrity, discipline, and consistent prayer life. He was trustworthy, diligent, and faithful, even in a foreign land. His excellence brought glory to God and favor with kings.
Joseph – Excellence in Adversity,Genesis 39:2-4 – Despite being sold into slavery, Joseph served Potiphar excellently. His diligence and integrity led him to become the overseer of Potiphar’s house and eventually the governor of Egypt. Joseph did not allow his circumstances to hinder his commitment to excellence. He maintained his faith in God and performed his duties with integrity and diligence, even in prison.
Jesus – The Ultimate Example :Mark 7:37 – “And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well...” Jesus exemplified excellence in His teachings, miracles, and interactions. He did everything with purpose, precision, and compassion.
Dr. Ben Carson – Excellence Through Perseverance-As a renowned neurosurgeon, Dr. Ben Carson achieved medical breakthroughs because of his commitment to excellence and faith in God. His journey from poverty to becoming a world-class surgeon shows how diligence, discipline, and faith can produce excellence.
How to Develop the Spirit of Excellence
- Cultivate a Mindset of Diligence and Hard Work. Excellence requires consistency and hard work. Set high standards for yourself and strive to meet them daily. “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” Prov 22:29
- Commit to Lifelong Learning and Growth. Continuously develop your skills and knowledge in your field. Excellence is a journey, not a destination. – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God...” 2 Tim 2:15
- Purpose to Live a Life Integrity and Faithfulness: Integrity builds trust and influence. Faithfulness in small tasks prepares you for greater responsibilities.He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much...”Lk 16:10
- Serve with Humility and Love.Excellence in service involves humility and love for those you serve. This mindset fosters collaboration and builds strong relationships.”Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Phil 2:3-4
The Rewards of Excellence
Just as Daniel and Joseph were promoted for their excellent spirit, God rewards diligence and faithfulnesswith favor and elevation. (Proverbs 22:29, Daniel 6:3).Excellence attracts people and opens doors of influence. Your excellence becomes a testimony of God’s goodness and draws others to Christ. (Matthew 5:16).When you operate in excellence, you experience inner satisfaction and fulfillment, knowing you have given your best for God’s glory.
Conclusion
Developing a spirit of excellence is a journey of continuous growth, integrity, and dedication to doing all things for God’s glory. By looking to biblical examples and applying practical principles, we can excel in every area of life, impacting our world for Christ.
Shalom.
Tuesday
Russia ready to support Iran nuclear programme, says Kremlin
CC™ GlobalScope
Russia has expressed its readiness to support Iran in addressing issues related to its nuclear programme, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who spoke to Iranian news agency IRNA on Tuesday.
Peskov emphasised that Moscow views its strong relationship with Iran as highly significant and aims to strengthen cooperation across all areas.
“Iran support includes providing assistance in dealing with important matters like the nuclear programme,” Peskov said.
He further noted that diplomatic efforts remain the preferred method for resolving international concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear activities, provided all parties involved show the necessary political will.
In 2015, a nuclear deal was reached between Iran and the United Kingdom, Germany, China, Russia, the United States, and France, offering Iran sanctions relief in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear program.
However, U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Tehran.
In retaliation, Iran began gradually reducing its nuclear commitments, including uranium enrichment.
Global News
Monday
Sharia proposition in Southwest politically and ill-motivated – Ahmadiyya leader
CC™ PersPective
By Sivowaku Abiodun
The Amir and National Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji Alatoye AbdulAzeez has expressed concerns that recent discussions surrounding Sharia law enforcement in the Southwest might be driven by political motivations rather than genuine religious intentions.
The Amir stated this at a press conference on “World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace”, where he received the managing director of Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) International, Sir Munir-ud-Din Shams, at Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at headquarters in Lagos.
Alhaji AbdulAzeez described the comments as overly sentimental, clarifying that Sharia courts have long been established in the Southwest region.
He cited a Sharia court in Ojokoro as an example, noting recent disagreements on marital issues where individuals chose between customary and Sharia courts.
Alhaji AbdulAzeez affirmed that Nigeria remains a secular state, with Sharia courts serving only Muslims, adding that, “The Southwest is peaceful, with various religious groups living harmoniously. Sharia courts resolve issues between Muslims who opt to use them. No non-Muslim can be forced to adhere to Sharia law.”
He suggested that the recent discussions might be politically motivated, reiterating that Sharia has existed in Nigeria long before anyone began mobilising for crises and wars. According to him, this is a case of political Sharia rather than religious.
The Amir highlighted concerns over the wrongful application of Sharia such as stoning individuals to death for expressing themselves, which is a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
He stressed that Sharia courts in states like Lagos, Ogun and Kwara primarily handle marital and inheritance laws, not criminal offences.
Drawing from the recently published book by the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Sir Munir-ud-Din Shams assessed the current world situation, describing it as a turbulent time marked by a continuing global economic crisis and alarming parallels to the period preceding the Second World War.
Leadership News
Sunday
Saturday
Friday
$700m Sugar investment will end Nigeria’s importation – Dangote
CC™ PersPective
By Gift Oba
The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has said the company is committed to ensuring that Nigeria ends the importation of raw sugar by “actively intensifying its execution of the Sugar Backward Integration.”
Dangote said the group has committed over $700 million to land acquisition, machinery, infrastructure, manpower, and other impactful activities to boost local production.
He spoke on Wednesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the ‘Dangote Special Day’ at the ongoing 14th Gateway International Trade Fair.
Represented by Tunde Mabogunje, Regional Director, Lagos/Ogun, Dangote Cement, the industrialist maintained that Dangote Sugar, as a leading brand, has made a remarkable impact on Nigeria’s sugar sector.
He said: “The company is committed to ensuring that Nigeria ends the importation of raw sugar by actively intensifying its execution of the Sugar Backward Integration. In this regard, it has committed over $700 million to land acquisition, machinery, infrastructure, manpower, community relations, corporate social responsibility, CSR, and other impactful activities.
“Similarly, to support the government in food security, we are also investing in the agricultural sector. These agricultural products will soon be in the market.”
Speaking on the trade fair, he said, “Our expectations, therefore, are that through this trade fair, we will be able to expand awareness of our innovative products, generate sales, attract prospective buyers, improve the image of our brands, and open new markets that will further translate to job creation and overall economic development.
“We are confident that this longstanding partnership with OGUNCCIMA will not only be beneficial to both of us but also to Nigeria and, indeed, the African economy as a whole.”
Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, applauded Dangote Group for its various interventions and urged the company to improve its environmental friendliness.
DAILY POST
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