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Benson-Idahosa’s daughter bags US award for anti-trafficking campaign

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Ruth Benson-Idahosa
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At the Award presentation ceremony, the US State Department, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, unveiled the release of the 2023 Trafficking Persons Report.

The comprehensive report assesses 188 countries and territories, including the US, providing an objective evaluation of their efforts in preventing and addressing human trafficking.

The primary goal of the report is to highlight successful anti-trafficking initiatives, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately eradicate trafficking worldwide.

Secretary Blinken emphasized the United States’ unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking, considering it a violation of human rights and personal autonomy. With over 27 million people still denied their basic rights, the Secretary declared that the United States stands united with others in the pursuit of ending this heinous crime.

The event also served as an occasion to honour the 2023 Tip Report Heroes, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the fight against human trafficking.

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Among the distinguished recipients was Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa from Nigeria, whose organization, Pathfinders Justice Initiative and Hub of Economic Resources For Survisors Africa, focuses on empowering survivors of sex trafficking through transformative programs that address the root causes of exploitation.

Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa’s advocacy efforts have also been instrumental in improving anti-trafficking policies and legislation in Nigeria.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, the awardee acknowledged the collective efforts of countless individuals, who tirelessly work for justice and reconciliation.

She shared the tragic story of Faith, a Nigerian woman trafficked and subjected to the horrors of the European sex industry until her untimely death. “Faith’s ordeal represents the harsh reality faced by thousands of victims, highlighting the urgent need for action”, she said.

Benson-Idahosa urged world leaders to prioritize reconciliation and adopt a more integrated, intersectional, and interdependent approach in the fight against trafficking.

She also called for a shift in consciousness that values the preservation of interests, rights, and dignity for all individuals, emphasizing the importance of amplifying the voices of survivors and local communities.

The Nigerian activist urged governments to address systemic failures and prioritize the well-being of people over profit, stressing the necessity of inviting those who had been traditionally excluded to participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that those most impacted by trafficking had their voices heard.

Benson-Idahosa emphasized the need for compassion, empathy, and long-term commitments to structural transformation.

She encouraged individuals to take small daily actions that promote love, kindness, and the collective good, as those efforts contribute to reconciling a world plagued by injustice.

In a related development, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has sent a message of congratulations to the Founder of Pathfinders Justice Initiative and Hub of Economic Resources For Survisors Africa, Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa, for the meritorious Award.

In a statement in Benin City, Governor Obaseki hailed the courageous and impactful work of Ruth Benson-Idahosa, applauding her resolve, resilience, and dedication to advancing the campaign against sex trafficking in Nigeria.

According to him, “I congratulate you, Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa, on the recognition by the United States Government for your immense work in deepening the fight against sex trafficking in Nigeria.

“I salute your concerted efforts through the Pathfinders Justice Initiative and Hub of Economic Resources For Survivors Africa in contributing to the global charge to end sex trafficking.

“This includes the provision of protection and prevention services to more than 3,000 women and girls. We are proud of the excellent work you have done and celebrate your hard work and determination in ensuring a better life for young people across the world.”

Governor Obaseki noted that Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa would serve as a role model to youths in Edo State and would continue to advance the state government’s campaign against human trafficking.

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AFRAA welcomes Enugu Air, strengthens Nigeria’s Domestic Aviation growth

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The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) has admitted Enugu Air as Member, extending the Association’s membership base in Nigeria’s fast-growing domestic aviation market and reaffirming AFRAA’s commitment to supporting the continued development of African carriers across the continent.

This was announced by AFRAA in Nairobi on Wednesday, making Enugu Air the 50th Member of the association, joining the AFRAA airline fraternity, collectively representing more than 85 per cent of total international traffic carried by African airlines.

Speaking on the occasion, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, said, “We are delighted to welcome Enugu Air into the AFRAA fraternity.

“As a state-backed carrier serving Nigeria’s rapidly expanding domestic market, Enugu Air represents the kind of homegrown investment that is vital to building resilient air connectivity across our continent.

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“We look forward to supporting the airline through the IOSA certification process and to its continued growth within the AFRAA membership, as we work together to advance the cause of unified African skies.”

Reacting to the development, the CEO of Enugu, Capt Tolu Ita, described the admission into AFRAA as a major milestone in the airline’s short history.

“We are honoured to join the AFRAA fraternity. This membership underscores Enugu Air’s commitment to safe, reliable, and affordable air travel for Nigerians while contributing to the vision of a unified African aviation market.

“We look forward to collaborating with fellow AFRAA members and leveraging the association’s support as we grow our network and pursue IOSA certification,” Tolu stated.

Founded on July 7, 2025, Enugu Air commenced commercial operations with a fleet of Embraer E170/E190/E195 aircraft.

The airline, which has its headquarters in Enugu and operates from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, currently serves nine domestic destinations including Enugu, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano and Benin City.

As part of the airline’s growth strategy, Enugu Air plans to expand further across Nigeria and, in subsequent phases, to launch regional and international routes across Africa, Europe, and beyond.

As part of its growth strategy, Enugu Air plans to expand further across Nigeria and, in subsequent phases, to launch regional and international routes across Africa, Europe, and beyond.

The admission of Enugu Air aligns with AFRAA’s strategic priorities and strengthens the voice of the association. Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its fastest-growing economies, remains central to the realization of a truly integrated African aviation market.

Meanwhile, founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry.

The association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable air transport industry in Africa, where African airlines become key players and drivers of African economic development.

AFRAA membership cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators.

The association’s members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines.

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Aiyedatiwa appoints 1,004 aides, picks commissioner, three advisers

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Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa
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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a fresh round of appointments involving a commissioner, three Special Advisers and 1,000 other aides.

The appointments comprise 90 Senior Special Assistants and 910 Special Assistants, with the governor saying the move is intended to reinforce his administration and improve its reach across the state.

Erelu Taibat Yemi Oloruntoba, from Akoko North-West Local Government Area, has been nominated as Commissioner for Special Duties. Her nomination has been transmitted to the state House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation.

The governor also appointed Hon. Abimbola Fajolu as Special Adviser on Environment, Chief Ade Adeniyi as Special Adviser on Rural and Community Development, and Mr Muyiwa Ogunyemi as Special Adviser on Transport.

Among those named as Senior Special Assistants are Erelu Toyin Ogungbure, Women Mobilisation (South); Bidemi Obayangbon, Forestry; Gboluge Olufunmi Alex, Community Engagement (South); Hon. Akin Adeniyi, Community Engagement (Central); and Obayan Theophilus Ayodeji, Community Engagement (North).

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Others include Kelvin Solomon, Students Affairs; Adeolu Iwakun, Volunteer Services; Samson Job Bazuaye, Oil and Gas; Fade Ojamomi, Youth Empowerment and Job Creation; Sam Adepoju, Public Engagement; and Alhaji Samad Orijeminiyi, Scholarship.

Also appointed are Victor Omodara, Grassroots Mobilisation; Abayomi Adefolalu, Photography; and Alhaji Abdukadiri Adenoyi, Prince Nzuoma Egbulefu and Alhaji Garba Goni, all for Non-Indigenes.

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40 feared dead as boat capsizes in Sokoto

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41 feared dead in Zamfara boat accident
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About 40 people are suspected to have lost their lives after a boat carrying farmers to their rice farms capsized in Gorau town, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The incident occurred while the victims were crossing a stream to access their farms.

Most of those on board were reportedly children aged between 10 and 15 years.

An eyewitness said more than 70 people were on the boat when it capsized shortly after taking off.

The village head was among those on board but he was reportedly rescued.

“So far, we have recovered about 40 bodies, while six people, including the village head, were rescued,” a local journalist who was at the scene, Sharhabilu Yahuza Kiliya, told our reporter.

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According to him, the victims comprised farm owners and labourers who had been engaged to harvest rice.

“The canoe capsized shortly after take-off. Rescue operations are still ongoing, with local divers searching for those still missing and recovering bodies,” he said. (Daily Trust)

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