
The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for the development of inclusive and human-centered artificial intelligence policies aimed at protecting workers' rights and preventing job losses, while simultaneously leveraging AI's potential for economic growth and productivity. This call was made by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Dingyadi, during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland. He highlighted that AI's rapid advancement is transforming labor markets globally, presenting both opportunities and challenges. While AI can foster innovation and improve productivity, it also poses risks such as job displacement, increased inequalities, and the erosion of human roles in certain sectors. Dr. Dingyadi emphasized the need for a balanced approach to harness AI's benefits without sacrificing decent work. He also noted Nigeria's efforts to integrate digital technologies and AI into governance through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and the automation of civil service processes. The Minister further advocated for reforms within the International Labour Organization ILO to ensure greater inclusivity and regional representation, and urged member states to align the ILO Centenary Declaration and the Global Coalition for Social Justice with national development priorities.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadLiverpool has appointed Andoni Iraola as their new manager, replacing Arne Slot, who was dismissed after a disappointing Premier League title defense. Iraola, 43, quickly became the top candidate for the role. While the club did not disclose the contract length, British media reported a two-year deal. Iraola expressed his excitement about joining Liverpool, calling it a "massive club" and a "special club." He is expected to bring a more urgent and aggressive style of football, reminiscent of former manager Jurgen Klopp's approach. Iraola previously managed Bournemouth, leading them to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and securing their first qualification for the Europa League. His tenure at Bournemouth saw consistent improvement, with the team finishing 12th, ninth, and then sixth. He was praised for his tactical acumen and development of young players. Iraola's appointment comes after Slot's second season at Anfield, which saw Liverpool finish fifth, 25 points behind champions Arsenal, despite a strong start that included a record-equalling 20th English league title in his debut season. Slot faced challenges including the death of forward Diogo Jota, underperforming new signings, and a deteriorating relationship with Mohamed Salah.

The House of Representatives has instructed Ministries, Departments, and Agencies MDAs to stop rejecting National Youth Service Corps NYSC members assigned to them for their mandatory one-year service. This directive, following a motion by Mr. Rodney Ambaiowei, member representing Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, addresses concerns that the practice undermines the NYSC scheme's objectives of national integration and youth development. The NYSC, established in 1973 by General Yakubu Gowon, aims to foster national unity by deploying graduates to different states, promoting interaction and community development. Mr. Ambaiowei highlighted that rejecting corps members defeats the scheme's purpose, deprives graduates of practical experience, and wastes public funds, as the government continues to pay allowances regardless of engagement. The House mandated all MDAs, including the National Assembly, to create structured work plans for effective engagement of corps members and integrate them into the economic value chain. The House Committee on Youth Development is tasked with collaborating with the Director-General of the NYSC to develop a comprehensive framework for deployment and utilization. This resolution comes amid increasing complaints from corps members regarding poor placement, underutilization, and outright rejection by public institutions, often due to staffing constraints or lack of structured programs.

The All Progressives Congress APC has committed to conducting peaceful and issue-based campaigns for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States. This pledge was made during a visit by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, to the APC’s National Secretariat in Abuja. Dr. Montgomery announced that the United Kingdom would deploy observers to monitor both polls, highlighting the importance of credible elections for Nigeria's democratic stability and global standing. APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, emphasized Nigeria's strategic importance to Africa and the international community, stating that instability in Nigeria would have far-reaching consequences. He called on foreign partners to continue supporting democratic institutions in Nigeria and noted the party's recent internal democratic processes, which saw over 6,000 members participate in primaries with minimal petitions. Yilwatda described the APC as a benchmark for other political organizations and reiterated the party's focus on ensuring peace and stability in Ekiti and Osun before, during, and after the elections. He also praised President Bola Tinubu's economic reform agenda. High Commissioner Montgomery stated that the UK's decision to deploy observers reflects the significance of these elections as the final off-cycle governorship polls before the 2027 general elections, underscoring the UK's investment in Nigeria's democratic and economic development due to its sig

Portuguese club Benfica confirmed that Real Madrid would need to pay 15 million euros to sign their coach Jose Mourinho. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has expressed a "firm intention to recruit" Mourinho as he seeks re-election. Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010, winning a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup, has appeared in a video on Perez's Instagram account affirming his readiness to return. Benfica stated that Mourinho's release clause is 15 million euros, contrary to earlier media reports suggesting a lower figure. Mourinho joined Benfica in September 2025 and has one year remaining on his contract.