Elder Dele Banjoko, a respected journalist and media unionist, celebrates his 70th birthday, reflecting on a life of service to the media and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Having survived a critical illness the previous year, Banjoko's career spanned various media outlets including the News Agency of Nigeria, Punch, Daily Times, and Radio Lagos. He is recognized for his role in the New Trend Movement, which influenced the NUJ Lagos Council, and for his deep involvement in union matters. The article conveys appreciation for Banjoko's advice and support, highlighting his humility and the grace of God in his life.

The Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) will commence registration for the 2024/2025 Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) on January 15th, ending on February 24th, 2024. JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, announced that logistics are in place for a smooth registration process, which includes creating profiles through the National Identity Number (NIN) and using specific JAMB USS codes. The registration fee of N3500 will be cashless to prevent extortion, and CBT centres can charge for services due to increased energy costs. E-books and audiobooks will be available for candidates, including those with disabilities. The registrar also urged against monetary awards for high scorers to prevent fraudulent practices, citing ongoing court trials and a three-year ban for one candidate.

Erik ten Hag's 'punishment runs' are being blamed by the Manchester United squad for the team's injury crisis, which has left several key players unavailable for their match against Liverpool. The squad believes that Ten Hag's rigorous training methods, including making players run long distances after losses, have contributed to the high number of muscle injuries. This has prevented Ten Hag from fielding his first-choice XI this season, contrasting with his first season's consistent team selections.

Mr. Taiwo Alimi, former Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), celebrated his 79th birthday on December 17, 2023. Despite battling old age illnesses, he is remembered for his significant contributions to broadcast journalism and media leadership. Alimi's tenure at VON from 1999 to 2003 saw the organization reach new heights, including the establishment of international bureaus and alliances with global media organizations. He also prioritized staff training and development, leaving a lasting impact on many careers. His strict professional standards and disciplinary actions were both admired and feared by colleagues. As he marks this milestone, Alimi's legacy in the media industry remains influential.

The Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdullah Muhammad Shawesh, has called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, highlighting the severe human suffering and accusing the Israeli Defence Forces of genocide. He urged the international community to conduct independent investigations into the conflict and criticized the UN Security Council for blocking resolutions aimed at peace. The Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, emphasized that the conflict is not religious but a matter of human rights and justice.

The UK's largest Muslim conference, hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, has commenced at Hadeeqatul Mahdi Oakland Farm in Hampshire. The event, which includes delegates from around the world, features lectures on topics such as Women in Islam and the moral failings of the economic system. The conference will also include a global Biat led by Hazrat Masroor Ahmad, the World Head of Ahmadiyya.

The Nigerian National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for media support in addressing the country's security challenges, including Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft. Speaking at the 19th All Nigerian Editors Conference in Uyo, he emphasized the need for better coordination and public support. Ribadu highlighted the government's efforts in increasing oil production and reducing criminal deaths, attributing these successes to the Tinubu administration. He praised the media as essential partners in the fight against insecurity.

Nigeria will host an international gaming conference organized by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, featuring industry leaders from the USA, UK, South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, and other countries. The event, scheduled for October 31st and November 1st in Lagos, aims to elevate the gaming conference to international standards in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. Keynote speakers and notable stakeholders, including Lanre Gbajabiamila and Sam Awulu, will participate, with the conference concluding with a Gala Night to honor outstanding industry operators and players.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is building six ICT Parks across Nigeria to foster socio-economic transformation. These parks will feature innovation labs, digital fabrication laboratories, and commercial hubs to support ICT startups and entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to enhance digital skills, create jobs, and support the Federal Government's ICT policies. The project, led by NCC's Executive Vice Chairman Prof. Umar Danbatta, will start with parks in Abeokuta, Enugu, Maiduguri, and Kano, with plans for additional parks in North-Central and South-South regions. The parks are expected to produce tech products and innovations, contributing to Nigeria's digital economy.

New state governors have been elected across Nigeria following the March 18th gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victories in several states, including Jigawa, Katsina, and Lagos, while the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) saw success in Akwa Ibom. The elected governors have pledged inclusive governance and development. Detailed election results from various states highlight the competitive nature of the elections, with some candidates winning by significant margins. Allegations of violence and intimidation were raised in Akwa Ibom, but overall, the elections were marked by a call for unity and progress.

Ben Shemang, a multi-lingual International Broadcast Journalist, Trainer, and News Administrator, retired from Voice of Nigeria (VON) at the age of 60. Known for his significant contributions, Shemang served as the Bureau Chief in Abuja and later as the Director of Training and News. His career journey, mentorship, and impact on VON's visibility in the nation's capital are highlighted. The article reflects on his legacy and the author's personal experiences working with him.

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) celebrates its 50th anniversary, highlighting its journey from inception in 1963 to becoming a leading media training institution in Africa. The article details the contributions of various leaders and alumni, the institution's mission and vision, and the significant support from organizations like Access Bank and the National Communications Commission. Despite its achievements, NIJ faces challenges such as poor funding, inadequate facilities, and the need for academic recognition of its PGD certificate. The article calls for increased alumni engagement and potential federal government takeover to elevate NIJ to a specialized media university.

Pa Bisi Lawrence, a revered Nigerian broadcaster and sports columnist, passed away, leaving a legacy in journalism and sports development. Known as BIZLAW, he was a mentor to many, including the author, Dr. Qasim Olalere Akinreti. Lawrence's career spanned from the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria to Radio Lagos/Eko FM, where he mentored future general managers. His columns in The Punch and Vanguard Newspapers were known for their clarity and relevance. Colleagues and mentees remember him for his professionalism and dedication. Akinreti, the chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Lagos State Council, extends condolences to Lawrence's family and the journalism community.

Humanity First International celebrates its 25th anniversary, highlighting its extensive humanitarian efforts across 77 countries, including disaster relief, healthcare, and education. Founded by Mirza Tahir Ahmad of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the organization operates with a large volunteer base and has provided significant aid during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article emphasizes the organization's commitment to serving humanity irrespective of race, religion, or political allegiance.

Mallam Ismailia Isa Funtua, an elder statesman and influential figure in Nigerian journalism, passed away from cardiac arrest. He was a former president of the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria and chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism. Funtua played a significant role in the successful hosting of the 2018 International Press Institute conference in Nigeria. His contributions to the media industry are celebrated, and he is remembered for his calm and reassuring nature. Dr. Qasim Akinreti, chairman of the NUJ Lagos State Council, expressed heartfelt condolences and praised Funtua's lasting legacies in the media sector.

Journalists in Lagos, despite their essential role during the COVID-19 pandemic, face harassment from security agencies and lack financial support. The article highlights the contributions of various philanthropists and corporate bodies to the pandemic taskforce, questioning why journalists are overlooked. It criticizes media owners for failing to pay salaries and meet economic rights, leading to poverty and unethical conduct among journalists. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has taken steps to support its members, but calls for more action from government, legal bodies, and philanthropists to address the plight of journalists.