News Agency of Nigeria
JOSTUM will punish students involved in signing-out activities – Registrar
Education

JOSTUM will punish students involved in signing-out activities – Registrar

Punishment

By Emmanuel Antswen

The management of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), says it will punish students who violate the ban on signing-out activities in the university.

Dr John David, JOSTUM Registrar and Secretary to the Senate, said in a statement on Friday in Makurdi that the decision was in line with the Federal Government’s ban on signing-out activities in tertiary institutions.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that the university management had on 15th February banned signing-out activities in the school even before the FG’s directive.

David said that the so-called ‘signing out’ had been found to contradict university culture and values.

The registrar stated that the negative development encourages students to engage in undignified ritual practices such as scribbling words on their clothes and other disorderly conducts.

According to him, such activities usually lead to noise, excessive partying, and other unsafe behaviours that compromise the dignity of graduates and the reputation of the institution.

“The primary concern of the university administration is to ensure that students graduate with dignity and decorum.

“Unfortunately, the signing-out practices tarnish the dignity of graduation with messy and unsafe practices by the final-year students.

“Going forward all activities relating to signing out are banned on the university campus.

“Students are strictly warned to abide by this directive or face disciplinary measures, including suspension, rustication and withholding of results/certificates.

“Staff and security personnel are directed to enforce full compliance,” he said.

He enjoined parents/guardians not to join their errant children and wards in showcasing immorality on the altar of excitement and fun.

He said the university administration counts on the cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring the safety of students and campus security.

The statement further advised students to vacate the hostels immediately after their examinations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

Navy celebrates success against crude oil theft
Defence/Security

Navy celebrates success against crude oil theft

Celebration

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

The Nigerian Navy’s “Operation Delta Sanity” in the Niger Delta says it has significantly reduced crude oil theft, contributing to improvements in the country’s economy.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, made this statement at the graduation ceremony of the Naval Warfare Course 9 in Calabar on Friday.
He emphasized that the Navy will not rest on its achievements and urged officers to remain diligent in combating insecurity within the nation’s maritime domain.

He highlighted that 52 personnel trained in August 2024 have been deployed to oil platforms to prevent crude oil theft, which has helped boost crude oil production in recent months.

“Our Operation Delta Sanity has resulted in numerous arrests and created an environment where criminals find it difficult to operate,” he said, adding that the operation has curtailed criminals’ freedom of movement in maritime areas.

Ogalla acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Police, other sister agencies, and stakeholders in these efforts.

He noted that the successes have boosted national revenue, restored investor confidence, enhanced transparency in the oil sector, and improved national security and development.

He urged the new graduates to apply their training effectively to strengthen national security operations.

The Navy has invested heavily in capability building and professional development. Graduates were reminded that they will face challenges testing their skills and knowledge acquired at the college.

Rear Admiral Akinola Olodude, Commandant of the college, credited strategic partnerships for the successful training, including the European Union office in Abuja, University of Calabar, Nigerian Army and Air Force war colleges, Nigeria Defence Academy, and the Republic of Cameroon.

He said the institutions contributed to the curriculum and provided expert resource persons.

Olodude also thanked the governments of Delta, Andoni River states, Cameroon, and Côte d’Ivoire for their support during study tours and operational visits.

Course Coordinator Captain Suleiman Abdullahi explained that Naval Warfare Course 9 began in January with 30 participants from the Nigerian Navy, Sister Services, National Defence College, and international attendees from Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon.

The eight-month rigorous training covered leadership, maritime security, military and theatre strategy, including field exercises.

The college partnered with the British Navy and military advisory teams, the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies at the National Defence College, and the European Union Office in Nigeria for the programme.

Highlights included inter-agency seminars, environmental talks in Delta State, operational visits to Rivers State, and international study talks in Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire.

Participants also took part in Exercise Skylock 2025 in Abuja, in collaboration with the National Defence College.

Throughout the course, participants underwent written exams, oral tests, and practical exercises.

Their conduct, confidence, leadership, and military bearing were assessed and reflected in their individual evaluations.

All 30 participants successfully completed the programme and defended their research projects.

Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Peter Odey, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the Navy.

He credited the Navy for maintaining peace in the state’s waterways, curbing kidnappers’ escape routes, and restoring public confidence.

“We are committed to working closely with the Navy and security agencies to promote safety, investment, and development in our coastal communities,” Otu said.
He expressed Cross River’s continued partnership in national security efforts and congratulated the graduates on their achievement.

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

Crude oil losses drop to 16-year-low – NUPRC
Business

Crude oil losses drop to 16-year-low – NUPRC

Turnaround
By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) says the country’s upstream oil sector is experiencing a significant turnaround.

It said Crude oil losses from theft and metering issues had fallen to their lowest levels in nearly 16 years.

According to the Commission, daily losses in July stood at 9,600 barrels per day (bpd)—the lowest recorded figure since 2009, when losses dropped to an all-time low of 8,500 bpd.

This data was based on year-to-date crude oil loss trends up to July, released by the NUPRC and shared by Eniola Akinkuotu, Head of Media and Strategic Communications on Thursday in Abuja.

The Commission described the progress as a major milestone in its ongoing efforts to eliminate crude losses across Nigeria’s oilfields and pipeline infrastructure.

Between January and July, total crude losses were contained at 2.04 million barrels, averaging 9,600 bpd over the seven-month period, the NUPRC added.

“This marks a clear departure from the high-loss years that have long plagued the industry.
“By comparison, the entire 2024 calendar year recorded 4.1 million barrels lost at a daily average of 11,300 barrels.
“Remarkably, in just the first seven months of 2025, losses were cut by 50.2 per cent, with only 2.04 million barrels lost over the period.
“The figures for the period ending July 2025 also represent a dramatic 94.57 per cent drop in crude oil losses.
“This is compared to the full year of 2021, when Nigeria lost a staggering 37.6 million barrels at a daily average of 102,900 barrels,” it said.
It said so far in 2025, only 2.04 million barrels have been lost, which was a reduction of 35.56 million barrels compared to the 37.6 million barrels lost in 2021, underscoring the scale of progress made in just four years.
It said that crude oil losses in 2021 were the highest recorded in nearly 23 years, making it the peak year between 2002 and July 2025.
“Since the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021, Nigeria has recorded steady progress in reducing crude oil losses.
“In 2021, losses stood at 37.6 million barrels, averaging 102,900 barrels per day.
“By 2022, this dropped to 20.9 million barrels at a daily average of 57,200 barrels.
“The downward trend continued in 2023, with losses reduced to 4.3 million barrels at 11,900 barrels per day.
“Even more progress was made in 2024, as losses were further contained to 4.1 million barrels, averaging 11,300 barrels per day,” it said.
The commission said it had adopted a balanced mix of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in tackling oil losses.
On the kinetic front, the commission said it continued to collaborate closely with security agencies, operators and communities, while on the non-kinetic front, it implemented strategic regulatory measures to close systemic loopholes.
“One key initiative is the metering audit across upstream facilities to ensure accurate measurement of production and exports.
“To further strengthen control, the NUPRC under the leadership of Mr Gbenga Komolafe approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes to combat oil theft,” it said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

CTA calls on Nigerians to leverage FOIA for greater government accountability
General News

CTA calls on Nigerians to leverage FOIA for greater government accountability

FOIA
By Naomi Sharang
The Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA), has called on Nigerians to take advantage of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) as a tool to demand accountability and transparency from government institutions.

The Executive Director of CTA, Mrs Faith Nwadishi, made the call on Thursday in Abuja, during the closing session of the Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative (SAGNI) project.

Nwadishi noted that the FOIA remains a potent weapon in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and must be continuously deployed by citizens, civil society organisations and the media to ensure that leaders remain accountable to the people.

“The Freedom of Information Act 2011 is a powerful instrument in our arsenal against corruption. By leveraging FOIA, we can promote transparency and hold leaders accountable,” she said.

Launched in October 2024, the SAGNI project was designed to enhance the implementation of the FOIA, increase public awareness and build institutional capacity at both national and sub-national levels.

Over the past 12 months, Nwadishi said that CTA carried out multilingual media campaigns, radio programmes, theatre-for-development documentaries, and distributed simplified FOI handbooks to demystify the Act and bring it closer to ordinary citizens.

According to Nwadishi, SAGNI recorded modest but significant achievements, including capacity-building workshops for civil society organisations, journalists, community-based groups, women’s associations and persons with disabilities.

She highlighted the April 2025 Supreme Court ruling which clarified jurisdictional ambiguities around the FOI Act as a watershed moment that further strengthens the obligation of state governments to comply with FOI provisions.

“The FOIA is here with us, let us use it and fight corruption even when corruption fights back, we must not surrender as victory will surely come,” she declared.

In his goodwill message, the Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Samson Osagie, said that the SAGNI project has enhanced the capacity of the state to improve service delivery to citizens.

He noted that Edo remains committed to open governance, stressing that Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s administration will continue to champion transparency and accountability.

“Our commitment is to ensure that the gains of the SAGNI project are not lost but sustained.

“Let us carry forward the spirit of this initiative to build stronger institutions, promote transparency and secure a better future for our state and for Nigeria,” Osagie said.

Also speaking, the Anambra Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Sylvia Ifemeje said that the SAGNI campaign has laid the foundation for a more opened and responsible civil service.

Represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ngozi Iwouno, the Attorney-General noted that the state government is committed to ensuring that secrecy has no place in the state public service.

She said, “We recognise that while the FOI Act provides the legal framework for citizens to access public information, its true impact is determined by its domestication and implementation at the sub-national level.

“We are working to institutionise FOI compliance across all our MDAs. This includes providing targeted trainings to public officials on the importance of proactive disclosure and the legal consequences of wrongful denial of information.

“We are working to change the mindsets from one of secrecy to one of service, demonstrating that transparency is not a threat but a shield that protects public trust and integrity.”

She expressed confidence that with continued collaboration, Nigeria will build a society where citizens have the information, they need to hold their leaders accountable and participate fully in the democratic process.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project was implemented in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Anambra and Edo with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), a programme funded by the European Union through International IDEA.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

NGO pushes biowaste for climate-smart agriculture in Nasarawa
Environment

NGO pushes biowaste for climate-smart agriculture in Nasarawa

Waste

By Abigael Joshua
The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) has unveiled plans to harness biowaste for climate-smart agriculture and greener communities in Nasarawa State.

Dr Michael David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, made this known at a Waste-to-Wealth awareness workshop in Karu Local Government Area.

It was tagged “Unlocking the Hidden Value of Biowaste to Power Climate-Smart Agriculture and Greener, Stronger Communities”.

Supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Nigeria, the initiative aims to promote sustainable waste management, enhance food security, and create green jobs.

David said biowaste represents a practical pathway to climate-smart agriculture, improved community resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

“If managed properly, biowaste can be transformed into compost, biogas, biochar and organic fertilisers.

“These products not only improve soil fertility, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions, but also create opportunities for small enterprises and green jobs,” he said.

He noted that while global conversations often focus on plastics and other waste streams, biowaste from kitchens, farms and livestock remained a largely untapped resource.

David explained that the training would empower selected women and youths to convert waste into useful products, including bio-fertilisers, biogas, and coconut-shell byproducts.

“I encourage participants to see biowaste not as a burden but as a blessing, an untapped resource that can drive sustainable development.

“Together, let us commit to protecting our environment, enhancing livelihoods and leaving a healthier planet for generations yet unborn,” he said.

Officials of Karu LGA and Nasarawa state expressed support for the initiative.

Mr Ibrahim Wali, Director of Works, Land and Survey, Karu LGA, said waste-to-wealth was a timely idea for improving public health and boosting the local economy.

“In Karu, where most of the population of Nasarawa State resides, huge sums are spent on waste management to keep the environment clean.

“With this initiative, waste can be converted into cooking gas, bioplastics and other products that strengthen the economy,” Wali said.

Also, Mr Ishaq Ibrahim, Director of the Nasarawa Waste Management and Sanitation Authority, said about 75 per cent of waste generated in the state was organic.

“Currently, these wastes end up in disposal sites in Ado and Tudun Wada. With the right technical expertise, they can be easily converted into organic fertiliser,” he said.

Representatives of the private sector and community also pledged support.

Mr Alfa Aliu, representing traders at the Maraba Orange Market, called for a government-supported waste collection centre to aid proper disposal and recycling.

Mr Victory Obehi, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member representing Karu LGA, commended the training, saying the knowledge gained on biowaste was an eye-opener for youth empowerment.

The workshop is part of GIFSEP’s broader effort to promote climate action, food security, and sustainable development in Nigerian communities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Japa Syndrome: Don urges reclaiming of Nigeria’s moral soul
General News

Japa Syndrome: Don urges reclaiming of Nigeria’s moral soul

Morals

By Dorcas Jonah

Prof. Godwin Akper, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Technology, Innovation, and Research, National Open University, Abuja, has urged Nigerians to reclaim their moral values to stem ‘Japa syndrome’.

“Japa Syndrome” refers to the significant wave of Nigerians emigrating to other countries in search of better opportunities, security, and a higher quality of life

Akper, who stated this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, said that the mass exodus of skilled professionals from Nigeria is fueled by frustration and moral decay plaguing the nation.

According to him, the solution for ‘japa’ may lie not in economic reforms alone but in reclaiming the nation’s moral soul.

Akper said that this was amid a deepening national crisis as reports reveal that Nigeria’s healthcare system is strained by malnutrition, poverty, and medical brain drain.

This, he said, had made the sector collapse under the weight of neglect, children starving, hospitals languishing, and professionals fleeing.

” Fixing the economy is futile without a moral foundation,” he said.

Akper traced Nigeria’s struggles to the neglect of core religious values not as dogma, but as a framework for public morality.

”As Africans, we must seek identities that unite rather than divide. We must return to values prioritising collective well-being over personal escape” he said.

Akper called on religious institutions to model authenticity, championing justice and inclusivity rather than privilege.

He said the blueprint for National Renewal for combating “Japa” through moral revival includes education reform, integrating Ubuntu ethics into curricula to foster national pride.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ubuntu ethics is a sub- Saharan African concept centered on the belief that a person’s humanity is affirmed through their relationship with others.

On leadership accountability, Akper reiterated the need to hold religious and political figures to public moral standards and address poverty not as a statistic but as a moral failure.

Akper, as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Technology, Innovation, and Research, had pioneered AI-proctored examinations during COVID-19, becoming Africa’s first virtual examination host.

NAN reports that it scaled enrollment to over 80,000 graduates, expanding access to education for marginalised communities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Tinubu to address world leaders at UN General Assembly Sept. 24
General News

Tinubu to address world leaders at UN General Assembly Sept. 24

Tinubu
By Tiamiyu Prudence Arobani

President Bola Tinubu will address the 80th Session of the high-level General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 24.

A revised provisional list of speakers obtained by the Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) from the UN headquarters in New York showed that Tinubu would be speaking on the second day of the event.

The Nigerian leader is scheduled to deliver his address to other world leaders during the afternoon session around 8:30pm local time (around 2:30pm Nigerian time).

Tinubu  would be the 17th world leader to speak on day two of the general debate, according to the provisional list.

He will be joining the gathering of 195 world leaders made up of 98 heads of state, five vice-presidents, 44 heads of government, four deputy prime ministers.

The others are 37 ministers, one crown prince and four chairs of delegation to speak at the general debate.

The President of Brazil, Luiz da Sliva would be the first world leader to present his address to the 78th session as it is tradition.

He will be followed by the U.S. President, Donald Trump, the traditional second speaker, being the host country.

Sources at the UN,, told NAN that the list was being updated and the Nigerian leader’s speaking slot might change if he would not be attending the general debate in person.

According to the UN traditions, Heads of State are speakers on the first and second day while vice-presidents speak from the third day.

Vice-president Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu in 2024 and spoke on the first day of the debate, maintaining Tinubu’s slot, which diplomats said was very unusual as per tradition.

The rare feat was credited to the goodwill that Nigeria enjoys from among the international community and the diplomatic maneuvering of the Nigerian diplomats at the UN.

Movses Abelian, Under-Secretary-General for General Assembly and Conference Management said the current “revised list reflects changes in the level of representation (upgrades and downgrades) and reflects exchanges among Member States “.

“Please note that this list will continue to be updated until the start of the General Debate as changes are communicated by Member States,” Abelian added.

The theme of the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly is “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights”.

NAN reports that the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 80) opened on Tuesday, Sept. 9, with the inauguration of a new President Annalena Baerbock of Germany.

Baerbock called on Member States to unite in addressing global crises, from war and poverty to climate change, taking her oath on the original 1945 Charter and pledging to lead with courage and inclusiveness.

A former Foreign Minister of Germany, Baerbock becomes only the fifth woman in history to preside over the General Assembly, she accepted the Assembly’s ornate gavel from her predecessor, Philémon Yang of Cameroon.

The high level General Debate will be held from Sept. 23 and to September 29.

The theme for the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly is “Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights”.

The high-level week will kick off on September 22 and run through September 30, during which world leaders will gather to attend the general debate and a series of conferences.

These include the High-level Meeting to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the UN, the SDG Moment, and the High-level Meeting on the 30th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women.

The others are the Conference on Palestine and Two-State Solution, the Climate Summit, and the High-level Meeting to Launch the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu’s reforms, bold, fruitful – D-G SEC
Defence/Security

Tinubu’s reforms, bold, fruitful – D-G SEC

Convocation

By Mohammad Tijjani

The Director-General General (D-G) of the Securities and Exchange Commission(SEC), Dr Emomotimi Agama, says the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu will significantly stabilise and develop the Nigerian economy.

He stated this on Wednesday in Kaduna at the Nigerian Defence Academy’s (NDA) 23rd Convocation Lecture titled ‘Pathway to Economic Prosperity for a Public Server in a Deregulated Economy’.

The lecture was part of the activities lined up for the graduating Cadets of 72 Regular Course and Post-Graduate students of the military academy.

Agama said Tinubu had initiated bold and transformative reforms across key sectors in order to lay a solid foundation for inclusive growth and long-term sustainable development of the country.

Agama said, ” The government had undertaken several significant macro-fiscal reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of exchange rates, and the tightening of monetary policy.”

According  to him, through these measures, the country has made notable progress in deregulating key sectors of the economy.

“The bold decision to eliminate Nigeria’s long-standing fuel subsidy programme on May 29, 2023, was more than a fiscal adjustment.

“It marked a pivotal shift toward a deregulated economy, aimed at reducing fiscal burdens and redirecting public funds to more productive sectors.

“The move signalled the Tinubu administration’s commitment to market liberalization, allowing fuel prices to be determined by supply and demand rather than government control,” he postulated.

Agama also said the government has begun scaling back electricity subsidies by adjusting tariffs, a strategy designed to enhance efficiency and attract private investment into Nigeria’s power sector.

The  director-general said that to  address rising inflation and support the Naira, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had adopted a tighter monetary policy stance, notably through interest rate hikes.

“These measures are part of a broader strategy to stabilise prices, restore investor confidence, and lay the foundation for a more market-oriented and resilient Nigerian economy.

“Another significant step taken by the CBN was the unification of the country’s multiple exchange rate systems, aimed at simplifying foreign exchange transactions and enhancing transparency in the currency market,” he added.
.

The SEC boss also spoke on the investments opportunities in the capital market and the need for the cadets to invest in order to secure their future.

Agama appreciated the Commandant of NDA, Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, for inviting him to deliver the convocation lecture, saying it was a great opportunity to make the cadets financially literate.

The director-general advised that while officers and men of the military battle to make the nation secure, “it is important they have a scheme behind them to sustain their families.

“I’m grateful to the commandant that we have this ability and this opportunity to make sure that retiring officers do not retire in penury.

“The reason why some retire in penury is because there is some lack of financial education and lack of financial support that could be generated from adequate knowledge of financial products in the capital market.”

Agama explained that the capital market was providing support and condition for the people to live well after retirement.

Earlier, the Commandant, NDA  Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, appreciated the SEC official for the incisive lecture.

.

Ibrahim said the NDA has been providing trainings for the Nigerian Armed Forces since 1964, with a focus on producing well-rounded commissioned officers.

According to him, the academy has adopted the National Universities Commission (NUC) Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standard (CCMAS) requirements to ensure quality and competitiveness in its programmes.

He added that NDA provides intensive professional training, including physical fitness, weapons handling, and tactical manoeuvres, to prepare cadets for the national defence and security challenges.

Ibrahim said the Post-Graduate students undergo programmes in military science, defence and strategic studies, psychology, technology, and national development, aiming to develop students’ critical thinking and research skills.

He said the NDA had bilateral partnerships with foreign military academies, providing opportunities for cadets to complete the final year of their training abroad and enhancing regional defence cooperation.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

FG intensifies moves to further crash prices of food items
Food Security

FG intensifies moves to further crash prices of food items

Food

By Kingsley Okoye

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a Federal Executive Council committee to further crash prices of food items across the country.

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Sabi Abdullahi stated  this on Wednesday in Abuja, while presenting a paper at a one- day capacity building workshop for journalists covering the Senate.

Abdullahi said the president’s order would be enforced to further crash prices of food items by ensuring the safe passage of products through various routes across the country.

He emphasised that the committee’s action was aimed at realising Tinubu’s vision on food sovereignty.

According to Abdullahi, the Federal Government was fully committed to addressing the high prices of transportation of farm produce in the country.

He said, “I can say it on good authority to you that the president has given a matching order with a federal executive council committee already handling it.

” On how we are going to promote safe passage of agricultural foods and commodities across our various routes in the country.

“We are aware, and I’m sure as media, you are also aware, there are routes through which commodities are taken before they are delivered.

“If you know the amount of money that is being spent, you can now understand why those commodities have to be expensive at the point of delivery.

” So, we are working very hard,we are doing quite a lot. But I’ve just given you a snippet because I’m here, and I felt we should look at that.”

Abdullahi explained that the vision for food sovereignty was within the ambit of food security and food sufficiency which encompassed availability of food, accessibility as well as affordability, and in right nutritional content on a sustainable basis.

According to him, other programmes such as the ‘Farmer Soil Health Scheme and Cooperative Reform’ were also awaiting implementation .

” We are having what you call the Farmer Soil Health Scheme. And that is ready for launch,we are just waiting for the date.

“Mr President has shown tremendous interest in the cooperative sector as a veritable tool for resource mobilisation, for economic activity generation and to improve the livelihood of members.

“And you know the principle of cooperative is clear, is democratic, yet it is also very productive. And so we are reforming this.

” There is a number of things we are doing there and I will urge you, as a press corps, to consider forming a cooperative,” he said .

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop, with the theme: “Parliamentary Reporting : Issues , Challenges and Responsibilities also had as resource person the Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs Sen.Yemi Adaramodu.

Other resource persons included Sen. Ita Enang and Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies ( NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Bashir Rabe Mani

Nigeria targets 25% industrial growth by 2035 – Minister
Business

Nigeria targets 25% industrial growth by 2035 – Minister

 
Growth

By Desmond Ejibas

Federal Government says Nigeria has projected a significant rise in industrial contribution to GDP, targeting 25 per cent growth between 2025 and 2035 under a newly validated strategic framework.

Sen. John Owan, Minister of State for Industry, made the remark during a panel session at the ongoing Gastech Exhibition and Conference in Milan, Italy.

The session was themed “Powering Growth and Prosperity in High Potential Economies Through Widened Access to Affordable, Reliable and Flexible Energy.”

Owan said the framework marked a turning point in Nigeria’s industrial policy, describing it as one of the most profound achievements of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

“For the first time in decades, Nigeria has a strategic industrial framework. We are determined to grow our economy,” he said.

He explained that the country’s current industrial contribution to GDP stood at about 10 per cent, with plans to raise it to 25 per cent by 2035.

The policy, he added, signaled Nigeria’s shift from a resource-based economy to a productive, competitive and innovative one.

Owan noted that President Bola Tinubu had been a strong advocate of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a tool for powering industries and driving economic growth.

He said that Nigeria’s large population and vibrant youth base positioned it as a key player in Africa’s industrial future.

“Nigeria is ready. Africa is the new frontier, and we are reforming to meet global expectations,” he said.

The minister praised President Tinubu’s reform-minded leadership, citing decisive actions taken on his first day in office, including the removal of petrol subsidy and harmonisation of exchange rates.

He said those bold steps had helped stabilise the economy, with businesses able to access foreign exchange through official channels.

According to him, Tinubu has also been promoting Nigeria as an investment destination during his global engagements.

“There is no better time in our history than now. Nigeria is open and ready for business.

“The global community should engage with Nigeria and Africa due to the continent’s readiness for transformation,” Owan said.

He further described Nigeria as ‘more of a gas-based country than an oil country,’ stressing that energy policy is grounded in available resources and long-term development goals.

He noted, however, that infrastructure gaps had led to significant gas flaring, urging international partnerships to help the country achieve energy sufficiency.

On his part, Mr Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy at NNPC Limited, emphasised that gas was central to Nigeria’s economic strategy.

He said that the Tinubu administration had been leveraging gas to deliver improved outcomes for Nigerians.

“Nigeria has over 210.5 trillion cubic feet of gas. We must optimise its development,” he said.

Ogunleye said NNPC was revising the gas master plan to position Nigeria as a sustainable global supplier, noting that projects such as the Train 7 LNG expansion would boost output by 30 per cent.

He added that clarity was being provided on gas sources for potential Train 8 and Train 9 expansions.

The NNPCL executive further highlighted the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project which, he said, was being developed in partnership with Morocco to connect 16 African economies and strengthen Nigeria’s role as a dependable gas supplier.

Domestically, Ogunleye said NNPC had begun supporting gas-based industries to generate jobs and meet investor needs, citing renewed interest from global firms in deep-water gas developments.

“Companies like Petrol Brass, returning as fiscal incentives, have created a competitive landscape.

“This is the best time to invest in Nigeria because the opportunities are vast and the environment is ready,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Gastech conference is one of the world’s largest gatherings, drawing global leaders and investors to discuss sustainable solutions and strategic partnerships. (NAN) (www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

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