October 2024 was marked by landmark events, from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle to Nigeria’s entry into the BRICS power bloc, the Independence Day celebrations, and, most recently, the passing of veteran actor Charles Olumo, popularly known as Agbako.
While October delivered notable milestones, November 2024 promises even more, especially in politics and governance.
In this article, Tribune Online highlights major events to watch for in November.
1. U.S. Election
The United States is gearing up for crucial elections on November 5, 2024. This election cycle is particularly significant, including the presidential race where incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris faces off against former President Donald Trump.
Kamala Harris, the first woman to serve as U.S. vice president, aims to make history again as the country’s first female president. Meanwhile, Donald Trump seeks a return to the White House following his 2020 defeat.
Key issues such as the economy, healthcare, and immigration are expected to play major roles in determining who Americans will choose as their next president.
2. Ondo State Governorship Election
Following the Edo State gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that candidates will sign a peace accord on November 8 ahead of the Ondo State governorship election, scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The election will feature incumbent Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office following Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s death, running for a full four-year term. Aiyedatiwa, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), will face competition from a former deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and 15 other candidates from various political parties.
3. Swearing-In of New Ministers
On October 23, 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and six others as new ministers.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu was named Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, while Jumoke Oduwole was appointed Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, replacing Doris Uzoka-Anite, who has been reassigned as Minister of State for Finance.
The President also nominated Maigari Dingyadi as Minister of Labour and Employment, Idi Maiha to lead the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, Yusuf Ata as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, and Suwaiba Ahmad as Minister of State for Education. Additionally, Dr. Nentawe Yilwada has replaced Betta Edu as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
The Senate confirmed these appointments on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. Each nominee addressed questions on how they plan to manage their respective ministries, providing responses that satisfied the Senators, leading to their appointments.
The swearing-in of the new ministers by President Bola Tinubu is expected this November, following the Federal Government’s directive that all handover processes should be completed on or before Wednesday, 30 October 2024.
4. Miss Universe 2024
The organizers of Miss Universe 2024 announced on August 24 that the pageant will be held at the Mexico City Arena (Arena CDMX) on November 16, with preliminary rounds on November 14.
This event promises to be memorable, with the reigning winner, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, crowning her successor.
Nigeria will be represented by Chidimma Adetshina, the current Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
5. Ibadan Startup Fest 2024
The third edition of the Ibadan Startup Fest, a prominent African gathering for tech innovators, investors, and ecosystem leaders, will be held from November 28 to 30, 2024, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth, the festival will feature influential speakers, interactive workshops, networking sessions, and masterclasses aimed at empowering emerging tech leaders and fostering economic development across Africa.
The event, backed by the Oyo State Government, reflects a strong commitment to shaping Africa’s tech landscape and will be hosted at the International Conference Centre at the University of Ibadan, with a spotlight on entrepreneurship and innovation.
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