News Agency of Nigeria
ECOWAS must match words with action to defeat Lassa Fever – Tomori
Health

ECOWAS must match words with action to defeat Lassa Fever – Tomori

ECOWAS

By Racheal Abujah

A renowned virologist, Prof. Oyewale Tomori, has called on West African governments to take concrete steps to defeat Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic disease that continues to ravage the region.

Tomori, a former President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, made the call in his keynote address at the 2nd International Lassa Fever Conference on Monday in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

According to him, although progress has been made since the first conference in 2019, many of the challenges identified then still persist.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is “Beyond Borders: Strengthening Regional Cooperation to Combat Lassa Fever and Emerging Infectious Diseases”.

It seeks to reaffirm regional commitment, mobilise political will, and drive collective action against Lassa fever and other emerging infectious diseases.

Tomori said that Lassa fever still recorded an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases annually, with about 5,000 deaths, mostly in West Africa, despite decades of research and intervention efforts.

“ECOWAS must match words with action. Without genuine political will and government ownership, we will continue to recycle the same promises and hold meetings without meaningful action,” he said.

Highlighting the achievements since 2019, he cited the establishment of five major laboratories capable of testing epidemic-prone diseases and conducting genomic sequencing.

The virologist also cited the expansion of field epidemiology training programmes and the deployment of community-level surveillance platforms across ministries.

He,however, complained that several gaps remained, including the absence of a licensed vaccine, uneven access to diagnostics, donor-dependent funding, weak cross-border coordination, and persistent stigma that delays patients from seeking care.

He urged ECOWAS member states to invest more resources, strengthen regional surveillance systems and accelerate vaccine research and community-led interventions.

“The 2025 conference is a wake-up call for us to take bold and coordinated steps.

“We cannot continue to rely on donors while our people remain at risk of repeated outbreaks,” he said.

NAN reports that the four-day meeting is convened by the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) in collaboration with Nigeria’s Ministry of Health and Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministry of Health.

It brings together scientists, policymakers, and development partners to review progress and chart the way forward in the fight against Lassa fever. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

FG, EU advocate harmonised data governance framework in Africa
Data & Analysis , Foreign

FG, EU advocate harmonised data governance framework in Africa

Data

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Federal Government, EU and African Union on Monday urged Data Protection Authorities to develop a harmonised data governance framework for data protection across the continent.

They made the call at the opening ceremony of a five-day data governance study visit for Data Protection Authorities, a data governance in Africa initiative, hosted by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in Abuja.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner, NDPC, said although 36 African countries had enacted data protection laws, only 26 of them have established dedicated data protection authorities.

Olatunji also said it was not enough to establish data protection laws but data protection required implementation of laws and cross-border cooperation of countries.

He said that Africa’s population of over 1.4 billion people presented immense opportunities for a thriving digital economy under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

“This potential can only be realised if the continent develops a single digital market that is supported by free responsible flow of data and proper governance structure,” he said.

He also said that the country has also generated over $1.5 million in registration fees and trained over 23,000 Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in the past three years.

Sen. Salisu Afolabi, Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, said lawmakers had produced the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill to remove legal uncertainties in electronic transactions.

“We are working with the UN Office on Drugs and Crimes to ensure we have a law that is robust enough and in line with global best practices,” he said.

He urged data protection authorities across the continent to leverage Artificial Intelligence in building a strong data governance structure as well as engage law makers in formulating data governance laws.

Mr Massimo de Luca, Head of Cooperation, EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said that emerging technologies could drive efficiency and empowerment, but could not be sustained without strong data governance frameworks.

“Data protection is a key pillar in promoting trust from citizens and businesses in the digital economy, driving economic growth strong.

“Data protection authorities not only safeguard citizens’ privacy, but attract investment and facilitate data flows for regional prosperity.

“They are needed to realise the African digital single market in line with the goals of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area and the African Union data policy framework,” Luca said.

Mr Felix Reinhold, Representative of German Embassy, urged African countries to take all necessary measures to secure their data internally.

“We believe that Africa’s data should remain in Africa’s hands and this means protecting the rights and privacy of citizens.

“It also entails ensuring that the value generated from data contributes to local innovation, sustainable development and the wellbeing of African societies.

“We must also guard against data monopolies because our shared vision is to foster a trusted and equitable digital,” he said.

Mrs Christelle Onana, Head of Digitalisation, African Union, recalled that the adoption of the AU Data Protection Policy Framework in February 2022 marked a bold stride towards a unified and inclusive data governance structure.

“It embodies our collective aspiration to drive digital transformation that is secure, right-based and empowering for every single African citizen.

“This week’s study tour is not just an exchange of experience, it is a strategic investment in unwavering commitment to supporting our member states in translating continental framework into national actions,” she said.

The tour brought together delegates from Tanzania, Mozambique, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Eswatini, Botswana and Nigeria. (NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Angola, Nigeria deepen ties for investment, job growth
Foreign

Angola, Nigeria deepen ties for investment, job growth

Cooperation

By Fortune Abang

The governments of Angola and Nigeria are set to deepen bilateral cooperation aimed at generating investments and bolstering job creation through enhanced private sector engagement between both countries.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the Ambassador of Angola to Nigeria, José Zau, ahead of the fifth Meeting of the Angola-Nigeria Bilateral Joint Commission.

The meeting is scheduled to hold on Sept. 9, in Luanda, where both nations will review existing Cooperation Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and address major economic challenges affecting bilateral relations.

According to Ambassador Zau, no fewer than 20 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be updated.

“These will serve as legal frameworks guiding political-diplomatic cooperation between Angola and Nigeria.

“Key areas of focus include defense and security, cyber and digital diplomacy, economy and trade, and the judiciary.

“Other sectors to be covered are culture, air and maritime transport, telecommunications and media, tourism, and visa exemption.”

Zau described the upcoming meeting as a significant turning point in fostering cooperation between Angola and Nigeria.

He highlighted key areas of focus, including free trade, visa exemptions, avoidance of double taxation, extradition and transfer of convicted persons, as well as enhanced maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

“Since 2001, the work of this commission has been interrupted, and we are very excited to relaunch this cooperation, with a focus on the hydrocarbon and petrochemical industries,” he said.

He added that other key areas of focus included agribusiness, sustainable tourism, information technology, innovation, and the blue economy, all expected to drive youth employment and support private sector growth in both countries.

Delegations led by the Secretary of State for International Cooperation of Angola’s Ministry of External Relations (MIREX), Domingos Lopes, and Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, are expected to attend the meeting.

During the event, two twinning agreements will also be formalised between the Angolan provinces of Bengo and Namibe and the Nigerian states of Nasarawa and Bayelsa, respectively.

Zau further announced that the Angola Private Investment and Export Promotion Agency (AIPEX) and the Angola-Nigeria Business Council (ANBC), would reinforce collaboration to ensure robust economic partnerships driven by private investments from Nigeria.

He expressed concern over the underperformance of bilateral trade, stating that “trade between Angola and Nigeria remained dull, insignificant, and underexploited, considering the enormous potential of both countries.”

According to him, Angola’s exports to Nigeria between 2020 and 2022 were valued at approximately 5.6 million dollars, while imports from Nigeria stood at 16.8 million dollars, resulting in a negative trade balance of 11.2 million dollars for Angola.

Zau, however, hailed the historic and mutual relationship between the two nations.

He recalled Nigeria’s fervent support for Angola’s political independence and financial contributions toward the functioning of its first post-independence government.

Following independence in November 1975, the countries signed multiple cooperation agreements across defense and security, civil aviation, oil and gas, trade, and agriculture.

“President Bola Tinubu, during my accreditation, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to openness and to strengthening bilateral cooperation by harnessing the full potential of both countries,” Zau added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Abiemwense Moru

IOM unveils €5.1m conflict prevention, resilience project for Katsina, Zamfara 
General News

IOM unveils €5.1m conflict prevention, resilience project for Katsina, Zamfara 

Project

By Zubairu Idris

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), on Monday, inaugurated a €5.1 million fund to enhance conflict prevention and crisis response programmes in Zamfara and Katsina States.

The 18-month programme tagged: “Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience in Katsina and Zamfara States (CPCRR),”     being supported by the European Union (EU), would be implemented by the IOM, in collaboration with Mercy Corps and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD).

Ms Dimanche Sharon, IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, said the programme focused on turning resilience into lasting peace and stability.

“It means creating local peace committees so disputes can be solved around the table, not through violence.

“It also means restoring livelihoods through skills training, farming support and small businesses, so young people and women can build their futures free from fear.

“With support from the European Union/Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI), and in partnership with Mercy Corps Netherlands and the Centre for Democracy and Development, IOM Nigeria is working hand-in-hand with government, partners and communities, to address the root causes of conflicts,” she said.

The IOM official said the programme would target displaced persons, returnees and host communities across 10 local government areas.

She said the participating LGAs comprised eight in Katsina and two in Zamfara, stressing that the targeted 95,000 persons would turn resilience into lasting peace and stability.

Amb. Gautier Migno, EU Ambassador to Nigeria, assured pledged EU’s continued support to Nigeria’s sustainability and development programmes.

He said the EU had stepped up support to the education and energy sectors, highlighting it’s focus on peace and security.

Migno underscored the importance of involving women and people with disabilities in the peace-building processes.

Gov Dikko Radda described the project as a new era of hope and development for the state.

He said some schools were shut and farmers abandoned their lands due to the conflicts, especially in the frontline LGAs.

Radda said that addressing the crisis required great commitment from the government and other stakeholders, and commended EU for the project aimed at addressing the problem.

(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

ADITOP dissociates from NUPENG strike
Business

ADITOP dissociates from NUPENG strike

Strike

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products (ADITOP) has dissociated itself from the intended strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and its cohorts.

The National President of ADITOP, Alhaji Lawan Dan-Zaki, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

NAN reports that NUPENG had announced that its members would commence a nationwide strike from Monday, and warned of an imminent nationwide fuel scarcity.

The strike is in protest against what it described as anti-labour practices linked to the deployment of newly imported Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks by the Dangote Refinery, for direct distribution of petroleum products.

Dangote’s programme on direct distribution of petroleum products to end users is aimed at eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development.

Dan-Zaki, while stating that the purported strike was uncalled for, added that ADITOP was in support of Dangote’s new petroleum products distribution scheme.

He said that Dangote’s transformational efforts would not only sanitise the industry, but would further stabilise both supply and distribution, while providing jobs and new skills to millions of unemployed Nigerians.

“We, members of ADITOP, hereby inform the General Public and the Federal Government that we dissociate ourselves from any intended strike or disruption by NUPENG and its cohorts.

“We intend to continue moving petroleum products across the country without fear of molestation.

ADITOP is in support of any petroleum products distribution scheme aimed at distributing products to the end users seamlessly and promoting economic development,’’ he said.(NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Customs board approves 0 duty-free limit
Business

Customs board approves $300 duty-free limit

Imports

By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has approved a 300 dollar duty-free limit for imports, a new policy that takes effect on Sept. 8.

The Spokesperson of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Abdullahi Maiwada, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, said that the decision was reached at the board’s recent 63rd regular meeting.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun.

Maiwada said that the initiative, also known as “De Minimis” threshold, aims to stimulate cross-border e-commerce, minimise clearance delays and further consolidate Nigeria’s position as a regional leader in trade facilitation.

He said that the move aligns with the best global practices, aimed at simplifying clearance processes for low-value consignments, enhance trade facilitation and provide clarity for e-commerce stakeholders and travelers.

The spokesperson explained that the “De Minimis” threshold is the value below which imported goods are exempted from payment of customs duties and related taxes established by the national legislation.

He said that non-compliance to the directive would include forfeiture, arrest and other sanctions stipulated in the NCS Act, 2023.

“After a comprehensive review of similar practices across continents, the board approved 300 U. S. dollars as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold.

“This exemption will apply to low-value imports, e-commerce consignments, and passenger baggage.

“The threshold, which is restricted to four importations per annum, aligns with Section 5(c and d), Section 158 subsections (5 and 6), other relevant provisions of the NCS Act, 2023 as well as international instruments.

“This include the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Revised Kyoto Convention,“ he said.

He noted that under the new regulation, goods valued at 300 dollars or less would be exempted from import duties and taxes, provided they are not prohibited or restricted items.

He, however, added that passenger merchandise in baggage not exceeding the same value would also be exempted.

According to him, the framework further ensures immediate release and clearance of eligible consignments without post-release documentation.

Maiwada said that it also mandates strict enforcement measures against stakeholders who attempt to manipulate invoices or evade duty obligations.

He explained that NCS had established multi-channel helpdesk platforms to facilitate the smooth implementation of the “De Minimis” regulation.

“These dedicated channels are designed to serve as direct points of engagement for stakeholders, providing timely guidance on compliance requirements, addressing inquiries, and resolving complaints that may arise during implementation, “ he said.

He assured that the service remained committed to accountability, discipline and integrity in discharging its statutory mandate.

The spokesperson said that NCS would continue to strengthen public trust and ensure that its personnel reflect the values of service, fairness, and national responsibility.

This, he said, is through its impactful reforms, transparent processes and strict enforcement of ethical standards.

Maiwada noted  that the board also deliberated on disciplinary cases presented during the session, following viral videos circulated recently on social media, showing acts of misconduct by some officers.

In line with that, he said that the board approved the demotion of two officers to the next lower rank, while also granting reinstatement to two officers whose cases were favourably reconsidered.

He said the sanctioned officers must undergo a mandatory medical re-evaluation by a medical board to determine their fitness to remain in the service and serve as a deterrent to other officers.

Maiwada said that the board further issued a stern warning to all officers against the abuse of banned substances and other forms of unethical behaviour.

He stressed that such conduct would not be tolerated under any circumstances. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

United Nigeria seals Boeing 737-800 acquisition deal
Aviation

United Nigeria seals Boeing 737-800 acquisition deal

Operations

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has signed an aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft to deepen domestic, regional and international operations.

The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, announced  this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

Okonkwo said that the signing ceremony held at the corporate campus of Southwest Airlines in Dallas in the U.S. and was brokered by SkyWorks Holdings, LLC.

According to Okonkwo, the development marked a new phase in the airline’s  strategic plan and growth.

Okonkwo said that Boeing 737-800 was renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements that improved performance, efficiency and passenger comfort.

He added that the acquisition would enable UNA to broaden operations, enhance efficiency and capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation.

The chairman said that the agreement represented not only acquisition of aircraft but also a ground-breaking opportunity for collaboration with Southwest Airlines.

He said that the aircraft’s fuel efficiency due to its advanced aerodynamics and efficient engines would reduce operational costs and minimise environmental impact.

He added that its versatile range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles would allow United Nigeria Airlines to serve both short-haul and medium-haul routes effectively, optimising networks.

”After four years of solid and reliable operations by UNA, the Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth.

“The new fleet will enable us to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international designations, lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and provide efficient point-to-point travels.

“In addition, this acquisition will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost Nigeria’s economic development and growth in line with the policies of President Bola Tinubu.

” We must put on record the strong support we have received from Boeing throughout the entire process and the promise for continued support to ensure a smooth entry into service and operation of the fleet,” he said.

Okonkwo said that UNA was looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines.

“Consequently, we have expressed interest in acquiring additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total number to 10, which will be inducted into the UNA’s fleet between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027,” Okonkwo said.

He quoted Mr Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice-President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, to have said during the signing ceremony that 737-800 aircraft would provide UNA with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns.

Okonkwo also quoted the Chief Commercial Officer of SkyWorks Holdings, LLC,  Mr Anders Hebrandas as saying: “We are pleased to have partnered with Southwest Airlines as it continues to restructure and modernise its fleet.

“With United Nigeria Airlines, these top-of-the-line 737-800s have found a great home in the growing African aviation market, where they will be productive for many more years to come.” (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

New curriculum laudable but Implementation key – educationists
Education

New curriculum laudable but Implementation key – educationists

Curriculum

By Uche Eletuo

Nigerians have continued to react to the Federal Government’s introduction of a new curriculum for basic, secondary and technical education, with some saying it was long overdue.

They spoke in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday.

The Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Prof. Bilkis Lafiaji-Okunneye, told NAN that the former curriculum had outlived its usefulness.

She lauded the new curriculum’s emphasis on digital literacy, coding and creative arts, saying that such would meaningfully engage students.

The vice-chancellor noted that the new curriculum recognised the relevance of technology.

She expressed the optimism that school leavers under the new curriculum could be self-reliant.

She also hoped that implementation of the new curriculum would promote discipline and morality.

Lafiaji-Okuneye said that LASUED, in an effort to promote discipline, compelled its prospective students for 2025 academic session to undergo a drug abuse test.

The vice-chancellor urged effective implementation of the curriculum to achieve its aim.

The Chief Imam of Lagos State University, Prof. Amidu Sanni, described the introduction of the new curriculum as laudable.

He said that the old curriculum was unable to fill certain gaps in teaching and learning, making some graduates unfit for the labour market.

Sanni urged education policymakers to ensure effective implementation of the curriculum.

NAN reports that the Minister of State for Education, Prof Suwaiba Ahmad, in a statement on Aug. 31, said the Federal Government had completed a comprehensive review of school curriculum for basic, senior secondary and technical education aimed at making Nigerian learners future-ready.

She said that the new framework was designed to reduce content overload, improve learning outcomes, and ensure that students would be equipped with relevant skills.

According to the Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, implementation of the new curriculum will begin with the 2025/2026 academic session. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

FG urges NUPENG to halt planned strike
General News

FG urges NUPENG to halt planned strike

Strike

By Joan Nwagwu

The Federal Government has appealed to the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to suspend its planned nationwide strike scheduled for Monday, Sept. 8.

Mr Muhammad Dingyadi, Minister of Labour and Employment, made the appeal in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja and signed by Ms Patience Onuobia, Head of Press and Public Relations in the ministry.

Dingyadi urged the union to reconsider its decision, warning that shutting down the petroleum sector would severely cripple the Nigerian economy and worsen the hardship faced by citizens.

“I have intervened in this matter and invited all parties for a conciliation meeting,” he said.

The minister also appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to withdraw its red alert directing affiliate unions to prepare for solidarity action with petroleum workers.

“The petroleum sector is the core of our economy.

“Even a day’s strike will cause heavy revenue losses, running into billions, and bring untold hardship to Nigerians,” he added.

He assured the public that the dispute between NUPENG and the Dangote Group over unionisation rights would be resolved peacefully to avoid any disruption in the vital oil and gas industry.

“I plead with the unions to give peace a chance.

“This matter will be resolved amicably, to the satisfaction of all parties involved,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage starts Sept.14 – NCPC
General News

Delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage starts Sept.14 – NCPC

Pilgrimage

By Angela Atabo

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) will inaugurate the delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage exercise on Sept. 14,  at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo.

Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the commission made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja.

The statement was signed by Mr Celestine Toruka, Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations,  NCPC.

In the statement, Adegbite said, ahead of the official commencement of the delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan, the commission has made efforts and taken steps to make it seamless and successful

Specifically, he said the commission had undertaken an inspection of the pilgrims’ aircraft in Antalya, Turkey, where he was received by the Executive Director of Atlasjet, Mr Serkan Yazicioglu.

He disclosed that Atlasjet is the approved air carrier by the NCPC for the airlift of Nigerian Christian pilgrims for 2025.

Adegbite also explained that one of the policy thrusts of his administration is adherence to the principle of due process.

“The Commission cannot afford to compromise on its set standards.

“The physical inspection of the pilgrims’ aircraft is necessary to ensure that the aircraft meets the required specifications as codified in the contractual agreement between the Commission and the air carrier.

“The Commission will stop at nothing to ensure that the philosophy behind its corporate slogan, “Service and Satisfaction,” is implemented to the latter,” he said

Adegbite further acknowledged that the aircraft inspection was satisfactory and expressed optimism that it would be able to airlift the Nigerian pilgrims safely and comfortably.

He thanked the Executive Director of Atlasjet, Mr Serkan Yazicioglu, for his expertise and unwavering commitment to serving the Nigerian Christian pilgrims seamlessly.

Also in the statement,  the Executive Director of Atlasjet,  assured the NCPC boss that there would be no service failure in their operation.

He added that the safety of the Nigerian pilgrims has been their priority.

Yazicioglu explained that the aircraft is an Airbus with a seating capacity of 350 and is technically top-notch with in-flight modern facilities.

He assured the Executive Secretary that the aircraft would be deployed to Nigeria before Sept. 14, preparatory to the inaugural flight of the airlift of intending Christian pilgrims to Israel and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

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