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It is no longer news that all the 33 local government areas of Oyo are endowed with natural resources enough to attract both local and foreign investments to the state if properly harnessed. This formed the basis of Omituntun 2.0-led administration of Governor Seyi Makinde’s huge investment in infrastructure and other sectors of the economy. With the various economic policies, the state will no longer be seen as only the political capital of the Country but also one of the leading economic states in the Country and Sub-Sahara Africa. The governor recently unfolded his plan to key into the various opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Area which is aimed at liberalizing not just trade in goods, but also in services and to facilitate intra-African investment. His plan is to redefine the economic landscape of the state as well as position it as number one in intra-African trade. To drive home his economic agenda, the governor in his remarks at the Consultative Forum on the Development of the AfCFTA Sub-national Implementation Strategy, at the International Conference Centre at the University of Ibadan articulated a bold vision that promises to unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth and prosperity. He submitted that the gathering is not just a meeting but a pivotal consultation aimed at shaping the future of our economy,” Makinde submitted that the geographical location of Oyo State put it at vantage position to benefit immensely from the various advantages put forward by AfCTA. The governor while highlighting the economic potential of the state at the Forum stated it would leverage its geographical location to benefit from the various opportunities provided by AcFTA in showcasing its potential to the rest of Africa. The state, according to him, is uniquely positioned to become an economic powerhouse, attracting trade and investment like never before. Some of the listed potential are; Agribusiness, Education and Healthcare, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, tourism, and a host of others. The governor who described agribusiness as a cornerstone of the state”s economy said, “Since 2019, our agricultural sector has flourished. With cash crops such as cocoa, cassava, maize, yams, and cashew nuts, we are well-positioned to export our products across Africa,” he stated, showcasing the potential for growth in this critical sector. He emphasised the importance of modernizing farming techniques and adopting new technologies to enhance productivity and value addition. He announced significant projects aimed at bolstering this sector, including the agro-industrial hub in Fasola, which is nearing completion, and a new hub in Eruwa designed to foster public-private partnerships. “These initiatives will not only increase our agricultural output but also create jobs and stimulate local economies,” he asserted, highlighting the multi-faceted benefits of these developments. Beyond agribusiness, the vision of the present administration in the state has been extended to education, healthcare, and the ICT sectors. The governor in his submission disclosed how the liberalisation of services under the AfCFTA could enhance these areas in Oyo State. “By capitalising on our international borders, we can attract students, medical tourists, and tech businesses from neighboring countries,” he explained, showcasing a comprehensive strategy for economic growth that leverages the state’s unique advantages. The potential for educational institutions to become hubs for regional learning and innovation was a focal point of his address. Makinde envisions Oyo State not just as a participant in the AfCFTA but as a leader in educational excellence, attracting talent from across West Africa. The governor also underscored the relevance of the entrepreneur to the growth of the state”s economy as he stated that substantial amount has been voted for empowerment of the Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneur across the 33 local government areas of the state. “Many local SMEs are already trading internationally, and this will create additional job opportunities and stimulate economic growth,” he asserted. His commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom are eager to expand their businesses into broader African markets. The governor’s administration is actively working to create an enabling environment for SMEs, including providing access to financing and technical support. “We are committed to ensuring that our local businesses are not left behind in this economic transformation,” he emphasised, inviting stakeholders to collaborate in fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Also on Tourism and Infrastructure Development, Makinde has highlighted the need for strategic investments that enhance Oyo State’s appeal as a destination for both business and leisure. “We have rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that can attract visitors from around Africa,” he stated, urging stakeholders to capitalize on these assets to boost the tourism sector. The governor’s vision includes improving transport infrastructure, which will facilitate easier movement of goods and people, further integrating Oyo State into the continental economy. “A robust infrastructure network is essential for maximizing our trade potential,” he noted, emphasising the importance of strategic planning in this regard. The governor also emphasized the importance of evidence-based strategies that align with both national objectives and local needs. “We need a clear implementation plan with defined responsibilities and timelines to track our progress,” Makinde stated, underscoring the need for accountability and transparency in the process. Aligning with the vision of her boss, the Special Advisor on International Trade Ms. Neo Theodore Tlhaselo stressed the importance of developing a tailored AfCFTA strategy for Oyo State, urging all stakeholders to rally behind Makinde’s vision for a stronger economy. “We must work together to ensure that Oyo State capitalises on the unique advantages we have in agribusiness, manufacturing, and investment,” she declared, fostering a spirit of collaboration among the participants. Tlhaselo noted that the AfCFTA’s liberalization of services could significantly enhance the quality and accessibility of education and healthcare in Oyo State. “Education is the bedrock of any successful economy.” “We must cultivate an environment where educational institutions can thrive and attract international students. This influx will not only enrich our academic landscape but also contribute to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth.” She also highlighted the potential for healthcare services to benefit from the AfCFTA, emphasising the importance of attracting medical tourists. “By improving our healthcare infrastructure and services, we can position Oyo State as a destination for quality medical care, drawing patients from across Africa and beyond,” she asserted, reinforcing the interconnectedness of health and economic prosperity. The Oyo State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi, reinforced this by stating that the AfCFTA aims to eliminate trade barriers, enhancing intra-African trade and presenting Oyo State with a golden opportunity for socio-economic growth. “We must leverage this framework to empower our SMEs, allowing them to compete on a larger scale,” he emphasised, urging stakeholders to collaborate in creating a supportive ecosystem for local businesses. In his address of welcome, Adebisi elaborated on the historical context of the AfCFTA, noting that it came into force on May 30, 2019, to boost intra-African trade and promote socio-economic growth across the continent. “The AfCFTA is not just about eliminating tariffs; it’s about creating a unified market that allows us to trade freely and efficiently. This is an opportunity to broaden our economic base, reduce poverty, and enhance the quality of life for our citizens.” Goodwill messages flowed in from various dignitaries, including Rev Bunmi Jenyo, Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry. He praised Makinde’s developmental strides and the collaborative spirit necessary to maximize opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The forum’s objectives were clear: fostering understanding and dialogue, gathering local insights, and establishing a collaborative ecosystem. Under Makinde’s leadership, the government is committed to ensuring that the AfCFTA strategy is responsive to local needs. Stakeholders were encouraged to share their experiences and contribute to the development of a tailored approach that reflects Oyo State’s unique context. As the discussions unfolded, the emphasis on local knowledge and community involvement resonated strongly. The governor recognized that successful implementation of the AfCFTA would require the collective effort of all stakeholders. “We are not just participants; we are pioneers in this journey,” he proclaimed, rallying everyone to take ownership of the process. READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNESecurities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler, who was aggressive in his oversight of cryptocurrencies and other financial markets, will step down from his post on Jan. 20. Gensler pushed changes that he said protected investors, but the industry and many Republicans bristled at what they saw as overreach. President-elect Donald Trump had promised during his campaign that he would remove Gensler. But Gensler on Thursday announced that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated. Bitcoin has jumped 40% since Trump’s victory. It hit new highs Thursday and was nearing $100,000. Bitcoin moved notably higher still after Gensler's resignation was announced. Gensler's stance on the rise of cryptocurrencies was captured during a speech he gave during the first year of his chairmanship in 2021 where he described the market as “the Wild West.” “This asset class is rife with fraud, scams, and abuse in certain applications,” he said in a speech at the Aspen Security Forum. “There’s a great deal of hype and spin about how crypto assets work. In many cases, investors aren’t able to get rigorous, balanced, and complete information.” Under Gensler, the SEC brought actions against players in the crypto industry for fraud , wash trading and other violations, including as recently as last month when the commission brought fraud charges against three companies purporting to be market makers, along with nine individuals for trying to manipulate various crypto markets. Yet access to cryptocurrencies became more widespread under Gensler. In January, the SEC approved exchange-traded funds that track the spot price of bitcoin. With such ETFs, investors could get easier access to bitcoin without the huge overlays required to buy it directly. Gensler, however, acknowledged the SEC had denied earlier, similar applications for such ETFs, including Grayscale Bitcoin Trust, among the first to eventually be approved by the SEC. “Circumstances, however, have changed,” Gensler said, pointing to a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia that said the SEC failed to adequately explain its reasoning in rejecting Grayscale’s proposal. Even there, Gensler made sure not to endorse the merits of bitcoin. He pointed to how ETFs that hold precious metals are tracking prices of things that have “consumer and industrial users, while in contrast bitcoin is primarily a speculative, volatile asset that’s also used for illicit activity including ransomware, money laundering, sanction evasion, and terrorist financing.” Gensler was tested early in his tenure with the rise of the meme stock phenomenon that shocked the financial system in early 2021. Earlier this year, the SEC under Gensler pushed Wall Street to speed up how long it takes for trades of stocks to settle, one of the areas where the commission’s staff recommended changes following the reckoning created by GameStop , one of the first meme stocks. In the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic, hordes of smaller-pocketed and novice investors suddenly piled into the stock of the struggling video-game retailer. During the height of the frenzy, several brokerages barred customers from buying GameStop after the clearinghouse that settles their trades demanded more cash to cover the increased risk created by its highly volatile price. In May 2024, new rules meant broker-dealers have to fully settle their trades within one business day of the trade date, down from the previous two. Critics of the SEC under Gensler have called many of the agency's proposals overly burdensome. The investment industry, for example, is pushing against a proposal to force some advisers and companies disclose more about their environmental, social and governance practices, otherwise known as ESG. Critics say the proposal is overly complex and increases the risk of investor confusion, while imposing unnecessary burdens and costs on funds. On Thursday, Gensler stood by the SEC's track record under his direction. “The staff and the Commission are deeply mission-driven, focused on protecting investors, facilitating capital formation, and ensuring that the markets work for investors and issuers alike," Gensler said in prepared remarks. “The staff comprises true public servants." Gensler previously served as Chair of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, leading the Obama Administration’s reform of the $400 trillion swaps market. He also was senior advisor to U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes in writing the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (2002) and was undersecretary of the Treasury for Domestic Finance and assistant secretary of the Treasury from 1997-2001.

Salah nervelessly converted a 63rd-minute penalty, his 16th goal of the season, after French referee Benoit Bastien had been advised to take another look at Donny van de Beek’s clumsy challenge on Luis Diaz. In the process, he became just the 11th man to score 50 goals in the competition – Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe later also joined that exclusive club – on a night when victory at the Estadi Montilivi meant the six-time European champions will enter 2025 sitting proudly at the top of the table. ⭐️ A FIVE STAR PERFORMANCE ⭐️ | — FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) France international Michael Olise produced a moment of magic to set the seal on Bayern Munich’s demolition of Shakhtar Donetsk and ease them towards the knockout stage. Olise’s brilliant stoppage-time run and finish capped a 5-1 victory for the Germans, in which he had early scored from the penalty spot, in Gelsenkirchen. Kevin’s fifth-minute strike had given the home side the perfect start, but Konrad Laimer levelled before Thomas Muller’s 55th goal in the competition sent the visitors in ahead at the break and set the stage for Olise’s double either side of Jamal Musiala’s strike. Jude Bellingham breathed life back into Real Madrid’s campaign as they held off Atalanta to earn a 3-2 victory in Bergamo. 🫲 🫱 — Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) After Charles De Ketelaere had cancelled out Mbappe’s opener from the penalty spot, second-half goals from Vinicius Junior and Bellingham in quick succession put the visitors in charge, although Ademola Lookman’s 65th-minute strike meant the contest was alive until the final whistle. Ross Barkley took Aston Villa a step closer to automatic qualification with a late winner against RB Leipzig in Germany. Villa had led twice through John McGinn and Jhon Duran, but equalisers from Lois Openda and Christoph Baumgartner kept Leipzig in it until substitute Barkley struck five minutes from time to snatch a 3-2 victory. Goals from Goncalo Ramos, Nuno Mendes and substitute Desire Doue – his first in the competition – handed French champions Paris St Germain a much-needed three points after a comfortable 3-0 win at RB Salzburg. He's making a list and checking it twiceB04 won and Nordi scored – nice! 🎅 — Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) Nordi Mukiele left it late to end Inter Milan’s unbeaten Champions League record as Bayer Leverkusen claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory at the BayArena. Mukiele struck in the 90th minute to inflict a first defeat across six games in this season’s competition on the Serie A champions – it was also the first goal they have conceded. Casper Nielsen came off the bench to fire Club Brugge to a 2-1 home victory over Sporting Lisbon after Eduardo Quaresma’s own goal had handed them a way back into the game following Geny Catamo’s early opener. Julien Le Cardinal’s first-half strike was enough to handed Brest a 1-0 victory over Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven, while Kasper Schmeichel’s save from Marko Pjaca’s close-range 80th-minute header ensured Celtic returned from Dinamo Zagreb with a 0-0 draw.

Share Tweet Share Share Email In an era where technology drives innovation and progress, ensuring that our advancements align with environmental sustainability is crucial. The rapid growth of technology has introduced significant benefits, but it has also posed challenges, particularly concerning energy consumption, e-waste, and carbon emissions. At IT Digital Media , we believe that sustainable tech practices are not only necessary but also achievable. This guide explores practical strategies and innovative solutions for creating a greener tech ecosystem. Understanding Sustainable Technology Sustainable technology refers to the use of technology in ways that minimize negative environmental impacts. This includes designing, producing, and using tech products and services that are energy-efficient, recyclable, and responsible. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses and individuals can contribute to a healthier planet while reaping economic and social benefits. The Importance of Sustainable Tech Practices Reducing Carbon Footprint : Technology-related industries are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable practices help reduce this impact. Minimizing E-Waste : Millions of tons of electronic waste end up in landfills annually. Sustainable solutions encourage recycling and reuse. Cost Efficiency : Energy-efficient technologies often result in reduced operational costs for businesses. Corporate Responsibility : Companies adopting green practices enhance their brand reputation and meet increasing consumer demands for eco-friendly solutions. Key Sustainable Tech Practices Here are actionable strategies to adopt sustainable technology practices: 1. Energy-Efficient Data Centers Data centers consume vast amounts of energy to power and cool servers. Transitioning to energy-efficient models is a critical step in sustainability: Green Energy Sources : Utilize renewable energy, such as solar or wind, to power data centers. Virtualization : Consolidate workloads onto fewer servers to reduce energy consumption. Cooling Optimization : Implement advanced cooling systems like liquid cooling or free-air cooling to enhance efficiency. 2. Eco-Friendly Hardware Design Manufacturers and businesses can prioritize environmentally friendly hardware design by: Using Recyclable Materials : Opt for materials that can be recycled or biodegraded. Designing for Durability : Create devices with longer lifespans to reduce frequent replacements. Modular Components : Enable easy upgrades and repairs to minimize electronic waste. 3. Circular Economy in Tech A circular economy focuses on extending the lifecycle of products through repair, reuse, and recycling: E-Waste Recycling Programs : Participate in or establish e-waste collection and recycling initiatives. Refurbished Devices : Encourage the use of refurbished tech products to reduce demand for new manufacturing. Sharing Platforms : Promote tech-sharing platforms where users can borrow rather than buy devices. 4. Sustainable Software Development Software development also has a role to play in sustainability: Energy-Efficient Code : Write optimized code that requires less computational power. Cloud Optimization : Use cloud services that are powered by renewable energy. Green Software Metrics : Measure and reduce the environmental impact of software applications. 5. Smart Technology Integration Smart technologies can significantly improve energy management and resource utilization: Smart Grids : Integrate IoT and AI to optimize energy distribution and consumption. Energy Monitoring Systems : Use sensors and software to track and reduce energy use in offices and homes. Smart Appliances : Invest in appliances that are energy-efficient and IoT-enabled. Real-World Examples of Sustainable Tech Practices Google : Achieved carbon neutrality in 2007 and is committed to running on carbon-free energy by 2030. Apple : Uses 100% renewable energy in its facilities and prioritizes recycled materials in its products. Dell : Offers take-back and recycling programs for used devices. These companies set benchmarks for others to follow, proving that sustainable tech practices are not only feasible but also profitable. The Role of IT Digital Media At IT Digital Media , we’re dedicated to promoting and supporting sustainable tech practices. Through our platform, we: Educate : Provide insights and resources on the latest green technologies and strategies. Inspire : Share success stories of businesses adopting sustainable practices. Connect : Highlight tools and platforms that help organizations and individuals make eco-friendly choices. Explore our resources at https://www.itdigitalmedia.com to stay updated on sustainable innovations in technology. How Individuals Can Contribute Adopting sustainable tech practices isn’t just for businesses; individuals can make a significant impact too: Extend Device Lifespan : Repair and upgrade devices instead of replacing them frequently. Recycle Responsibly : Dispose of electronics at designated e-waste recycling centers. Energy Conservation : Use energy-saving settings on devices and unplug chargers when not in use. Support Green Brands : Choose products from companies committed to sustainability. Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Tech Practices While the benefits of sustainable technology are clear, challenges remain: Initial Costs : Transitioning to green technologies often requires upfront investments. Awareness : Many businesses and individuals lack awareness of sustainable options. Scalability : Implementing large-scale sustainable solutions can be complex. Despite these challenges, the long-term advantages make sustainability an essential pursuit for the tech industry. The Future of Sustainable Technology The future of sustainable technology is promising, driven by innovation and global awareness. Key trends include: Renewable Energy Integration : Greater reliance on solar, wind, and other renewable sources. Advanced Recycling Techniques : Innovations in material recovery and reuse. AI for Sustainability : Using AI to predict and optimize resource utilization. At IT Digital Media, we’re excited to witness and report on these advancements, ensuring our readers are well-equipped to participate in the journey toward a greener future. Sustainability in technology is no longer optional—it’s imperative. By adopting energy-efficient practices, embracing a circular economy, and leveraging smart technologies, we can build a tech ecosystem that supports both innovation and the environment. Whether you’re a business leader or a tech enthusiast, there’s a role for everyone in this movement Related Items: Eco-friendly , Sustainability , Sustainable technology Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Sustainable Tech: How Can Businesses Contribute to a Greener Future? Eco-Friendly Excellence: 2024 Green Cleaning Solutions for Commercial Spaces Leveraging Weather Data to Improve Emergency Response CommentsWASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden kicked off his final holiday season at the White House on Monday by issuing the traditional reprieve to two turkeys who will bypass the Thanksgiving table to live out their days in southern Minnesota. Biden welcomed 2,500 guests to the South Lawn under sunny skies as he cracked jokes about the fates of “Peach” and “Blossom” and sounded wistful tones about the last weeks of his presidency after a half-century in Washington power circles. “It’s been the honor of my life. I’m forever grateful,” Biden said, taking note of his impending departure on Jan. 20, 2025. That's when power will transfer to Republican President-elect Donald Trump, the man Biden defeated four years ago and was battling again until he was pressured to bow out of the race amid concerns about his age and viability. Biden is 82. Until Inauguration Day, the president and first lady Jill Biden will continue a busy run of festivities that will double as their long goodbye. The White House schedule in December is replete with holiday parties for various constituencies, from West Wing staff to members of Congress and the White House press corps. Biden relished the brief ceremony with the pardoned turkeys, named for the official flower of the president's home state of Delaware. “The peach pie in my state is one of my favorites,” he said during remarks that were occasionally interrupted by Peach gobbling atop the table to Biden's right. “Peach is making a last-minute plea,” Biden said at one point, drawing laughter from an overflow crowd that included Cabinet members, White House staff and their families, and students from 4H programs and Future Farmers of America chapters. Biden introduced Peach as a bird who “lives by the motto, ‘Keep calm and gobble on.’” Blossom, the president said, has a different motto: “No fowl play. Just Minnesota nice.” Peach and Blossom came from the farm of John Zimmerman, near the southern Minnesota city of Northfield. Zimmerman, who has raised about 4 million turkeys, is president of the National Turkey Federation, the group that has gifted U.S. presidents Thanksgiving turkeys since the Truman administration after World War II. President Harry Truman, however, preferred to eat the birds. Official pardon ceremonies did not become an annual White House tradition until the administration of President George H.W. Bush in 1989. With their presidential reprieve, Peach and Blossom will live out their days at Farmamerica, an agriculture interpretative center near Waseca in southern Minnesota. The center's aim is to promote agriculture and educate future farmers and others about agriculture in America. Separately Monday, first lady Jill Biden received the official White House Christmas tree that will be decorated and put on display in the Blue Room. The 18.5 foot (5.64 meters) Fraser fir came from a farm in an area of western North Carolina that recently was devastated by Hurricane Helene . Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm lost thousands of trees in the storm “but this one remained standing and they named it ‘Tremendous’ for the extraordinary hope that it represents,” Jill Biden said at the event. The Bidens were also traveling to New York City on Monday for an evening “Friendsgiving” event at a Coast Guard station on Staten Island. Biden began his valedictory calendar Friday night with a gala for hundreds of his friends, supporters and staff members who gathered in a pavilion erected on the South Lawn, with a view out to the Lincoln Memorial. Cabinet secretaries, Democratic donors and his longest-serving staff members came together to hear from the president and pay tribute, with no evidence that Biden was effectively forced from the Democratic ticket this summer and watched Vice President Kamala Harris suffer defeat on Nov. 5. “I’m so proud that we’ve done all of this with a deep belief in the core values of America,” said Biden, sporting a tuxedo for the black-tie event. Setting aside his criticisms of Trump as a fundamental threat to democracy, Biden added his characteristic national cheerleading: “I fully believe that America is better positioned to lead the world today than at any point in my 50 years of public service.” The first lady toasted her husband with a nod to his 2020 campaign promise to “restore the soul of the nation,” in Trump’s aftermath. With the results on Election Day, however, Biden’s four years now become sandwiched in the middle of an era dominated by Trump's presence on the national stage and in the White House. Even as the first couple avoided the context surrounding the president's coming exit, those political realities were nonetheless apparent, as younger Democrats like Maryland Gov. Wes Moore , Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Biden's Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg not only raised their glasses to the president but held forth with many attendees who could remain in the party's power circles in the 2028 election cycle and beyond. ___ Associated Press writer Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis contributed to this report.

Biden opens final White House holiday season with turkey pardons and first lady gets Christmas tree

NEW YORK — Half of the claims for public matching funds that Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection campaign submitted in the most recent reporting period were deemed “invalid” by the city’s Campaign Finance Board, the highest rejection rate the mayor’s team has faced to date, records obtained by the Daily News show. The rejections come at a critical time for Adams’ campaign. The CFB is weighing whether to give Adams’ 2025 campaign any matching funds at all amid his federal indictment on charges alleging he took illegal political donations and bribes, mostly from Turkish government operatives. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get the latest news, sports, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.TV’s Dr. Oz invested in businesses regulated by agency Trump wants him to leadSpecial teams miscues prove costly for Bears in overtime loss to Vikings