NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Constitution review should reflect people’s views– Ndarani
Judiciary

Constitution review should reflect people’s views– Ndarani

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By Ebere Agozie

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mohammed Ndarani, has advised the National Assembly to ensure that the current constitution review reflects the views of the people.

 

Ndarani gave the advice during a press conference on Friday in Abuja.

 

He noted that developments in the country justifies a complete overhaul and comprehensive amendment to the 1999 constitution.

 

He said that the current constitution has gone through five amendments and it is believed that it could be much better.

 

“My stand has always been to draft a totally new constitution but if we must continue to tinker with the same document over and over again, it has to be thorough this time around.

 

“The truth, however, is that the constitution has to be fundamentally solid and take into account the special characteristics of the entity for which the document is being drafted.’’

 

He advised that the process must draw from the peculiarities of Nigeria, the demographics, ethnicity, economic structure as well as the many other current realities.

 

“There is therefore a great need for the National Assembly to make provision for a proper referendum prior to amendments to those critical areas of the constitution.

 

“This is what will give the said constitution or act the touch of the people, imbue it with much-needed legitimacy and bring the laws closer to the people and vice versa.

 

“Considering that the Zonal public hearings are already underway, the voice of the people should be heard to ensure a greater relevance and acceptability of the outcome.

 

“The world over, constitutions are amended to respond to socio-economic, cultural and political changes, so the amendment process must entail the mass participation of the people.’’

 

The senior lawyer said that no constitution is entirely good or completely bad, adding that it depends on the people who apply and implement the provisions.

 

“It must be transparent, credible and rigorous enough to ensure that it is done in the interest of the people, and not to protect the personal interests of some individuals.

 

“In many instances amendments are seen as a means of protecting vested interests as power blocs see the process as a political poker game, rather than a democratic rearrangement to benefit all.’’

 

Ndarani noted that Nigeria is a state founded on the principles of democracy and social justice, emphasising that sovereignty belongs to the people.

 

He questioned the rational behind the removal of  some submissions of the people by the National Assembly, especially the one calling for removal of the immunity clause.

 

“We are talking about fighting corruption at the highest places and they are refusing to allow debate on the removal of the immunity clause.

 

“Who told them to remove those submissions, was it the people? Removal of the immunity clause is part of what the people want.

 

“The people want to be able to hold their leaders accountable and the removal of the immunity clause will help them gather evidence and prosecute erring leaders.

 

“They should allow whatever is the opinion of people on the people’s constitution to prevail.

 

“The review should result in a responsive and efficient constitution that will address structural, fundamental and emerging issues within the Nigerian Federation.

 

“With the right constitution to guide the Nigerian nation, this country has the wherewithal to be one of the leading nations on earth,’’ he added.

 

Ndarani said he aligned himself with the indigeneship bill tabled by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.

 

Kalu had proposed a bill to grant indigene status to individuals who have resided in a state for 10 years or married a native.

 

“I see it as a progressive move for national unity. Nigerian citizenship is primarily defined in Chapter 3 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

 

“Nobody should be prevented from contesting for a position because his parents were not from a particular city, state or locale. Citizenship should take precedence over other mundane considerations.

 

“That means that you take a position based on citizenship in the state, not on indigeneship and there should be no discrimination.

 

“This citizenship provision is saying that Nigeria is one indivisible nation. It is Nigeria first, before individuals.

 

“The constitution should have state citizenship: that is you know where you come from, but once you have your citizenship, like in the UK, nobody will ask you where you are from.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

FG urged to link Warri-Itakpe rail to inland ports, road networks
General News

FG urged to link Warri-Itakpe rail to inland ports, road networks

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By Reporters

Stakeholders in the transportation sector have called on the Federal Government to link the Warri-Itakpe standard gauge rail line to inland ports and road networks to create seamless multimodal transport system.

They made the call while responding to a national survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on the state of railway lines in the country.

Inaugurated for commercial operation in Sept. 2020, after more than three decades delay, the 326km Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri standard gauge rail line currently connects Warri in Delta State to Itakpe in Kogi State.

The rail line was originally designed to transport iron ore and coal from Itakpe to Ajaokuta Steel Mill and Aladja Steel Rolling Mills in Delta.

Since its inauguration, the rail line has  facilitated the movement of goods and passengers between the southern and northern parts of Nigeria.

Speaking with NAN in Lokoja, Mr Shittu Adams, a retired Director in Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), said the railway line should be integrated with existing waterway and road networks, along the corridor, to create seamless transport system.

Adams said the integration of the rail line would facilitate more efficient cargo and passenger transportation and enhance trade, economic growth, and overall connectivity.

He said that the integration would allow for seamless transfer of goods between the railway and the waterway transportation system in the region.

Adams also urged the federal government to integrate the rail line with existing road networks, particularly in Warri and other key locations, to ensure efficient transfer of goods and passengers to and from the rail line.

The director decried the high level of bureaucracy and poor governance leading to inefficient management and lack of transparency in the management of the rail infrastructure.

He said that the challenges contributed to the delays and underperformance of services rendered along the corridor.

Adams also faulted the outdated signaling systems, ticketing processes, and operational logistics which, according to him, are affecting speed and efficiency of the rail operations.

“There is the need for training and retraining of personnel in modern rail operations to enhance efficiency and safety.

“I will also suggest long-term and consistent government policies, that will attract investment and provide a clear direction for rail sector growth in general,” he said.

He urged the federal government to provide a clear and enabling regulatory framework that would encourage private investment and ensures safety standards in the railway operations.

Speaking in the same veins, Mr Taiye Bolaji, the Director Road Maintenance, Kogi State Ministry of Works, said the Warri-Itakpe rail line, like most others, connects only a few major cities and do not reach key agricultural or industrial hubs.

He said the Warri-Itakpe rail line has not connected the Lokoja metropolis and Obajana,  where Dangote Cement Plant and Mangal Cement Plant are located.

Bolaji, therefore, advocated  the expansion of the rail network to connect key agricultural zones, seaports, mining areas, and industrial cluster, in order to improve the  movement of raw materials and finished goods.

He appealed to the federal government to expedite the extension of the railway line to Lokoja,  Kogi state capital and a home to an inland port, for seamless transfer of goods and people.

Bolaji said that, from Lokoja, the rail line should be extended to Abuja, thereby connecting the northern part of the country to the southern region.

According to him, the integrated transportation system will boost economic activities, reduce  transportation costs, and create new opportunities.

Dr Simeon Omakoji, former Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Chairman in Kogi, said the major challenges facing railway transport in Nigeria are corruption and inability to factor regular maintenance.

Omakoji,  the incumbent Chairman, Kogi East Security Neighborhood Watch, advocated for improved maintenance culture, e-ticketing and more transparent financial management in the railway operations.

He stressed the need for people to invest in the railway system, while the government develop the political will to make the system work effectively.

Another stakeholder, Mr Ukwunetu Samuel-Ali, said Nigeria’s rail infrastructure used to be a symbol of prosperity and connectedness.

He said the rail infrastructure was, however, for many years, subjected to neglect and under investment resulting in vandalism and encroachment of tracks and other infrastructure.

Samuel-Ali, therefore, urged the federal government to sustain the initiative to revitalise and modernise the rail network across the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mohammed Baba Busu/ Rotimi Ijikanmi

Why NRC suspends railway operations in Niger 
General News

Why NRC suspends railway operations in Niger 

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By Reporters

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has attributed the suspension of operations on some of its rail lines to insecurity, banditry and vandalism of its rail tracks.

Mr John Otivere, an official of the NRC in Niger, disclosed this in Minna in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the state of railway infrastructure across the country.

NAN reports that Otivere spoke on behalf of Mrs Blessing Okanezi, District Rail Superintendent, NRC, Minna

Otivere, explained that the challenges of insecurity and vandalism had forced the corporation to halt operations on some routes.

He clarified that the narrow gauge rail lines was not abandoned, rather, the operations have been hindered by security challenges.

“Our lines are not abandoned, our train originates from Lagos down to Kano and returns from Kano down to Lagos,” he said.

The NRC official said the locations mostly  affected by insecurity were Gwada, Sarkin-Pawa to Kuchi in Niger down to Gaddani towards Gwadada in Kaduna state.

He added that the train station in Gaddani, a border community between Niger and Kaduna had been closed for a long time now due to activities of bandits.

He added that Wushishi, Pakara and Akere also experienced the same challenges, adding that its last operations was in Dec. 2022.

Also speaking, Mr Femi Adewakun, District Internal Auditor, NRC in Niger, said the district carried out regular maintenance of its locomotive engines and rail lines.

Adewakun who also spoke on behalf of Alhaji Suleiman Obafun,  Railway District Manager (RDM), in Niger, underscored the importance of rail network to the country’s economy and the need to prioritise the services.

“Here, we operate narrow gauge and we have always carry out maintenance of all our locomotive engines and rail lines inspection on daily basis,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Akin Atanda, District Civil Engineer, NRC in Niger, highlighted the impact of vandalism and banditry activities on railway operations.

He said that some locations had been completely taken over by bandits making it impossible to carry out maintenance or operate trains safely.

Atanda said that vandals had been removing tracks fastenings in some locations such as Beji axis.

“Some of the vandals were arrested and taken to court, while some are in prison,” he said.

He also cited the issue of washout of rail lines, particularly in Mokwa where erosions had removed some complete tracks.

Atanda said the combination of these challenges had affected train operations in the areas.

He emphasised the importance of safety in railway operations and the need to address the challenges hindering the operations. (NAN)(www.nannewd.ng)

Edited by Mohammed Baba Busu/Rotimi Ijikanmi

Railway tracks in Umuahia not vandalised- NRC official
Metro

Railway tracks in Umuahia not vandalised- NRC official

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By Leonard Okachie

The Station Manager, Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Umuahia, Mr Joseph Odoh, has said that rail infrastructure along the corridor are protected from vandals.

Odoh disclosed this while responding to a national survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on the state of railway lines and infrastructure in the country.

According to him, the police attached to the corporation have been working in close collaboration with the external security agencies to ensure security along the railway tracks.

He said the security agents were providing surveillance to ensure that vandals do not have access to the NRC property.

The manager added that the railway staff members also, were always at alert, reporting any suspicious movement to the station police operatives.

He, however, admitted that the streetlights installed at the station were no longer functioning.

Odoh said that the railway at the Umuahia axis was not abandoned as speculated, but was in the process of revitalisation by the Federal Government.

“The Federal Government is doing everything possible to revamp the tracks, through the effort of our Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, and his team.

“They are working round the clock to ensure that the Eastern railway axis is restored.

“Some of the rail tracks were removed because they were outdated, but the government wants to replace them with a modern narrow gauge.

“The Port Harcourt-Aba axis is already revamped and functional, we are hoping that it will be extended to Umuahia and entire Eastern corridor soon,” he said

Odoh said he looked forward to seeing a functional railway system, where a train would run within the Eastern corridor down to the North.

Another member of staff of the corporation, Mr Festus Okeke, appealed to the government to act fast in fixing the rail gauge in order to ease transportation challenge in the region.

Okeke, who is the  NRC Ticket Master,  confirmed that the railway tracks were properly secured, adding that a particular company was in charge of the security of the property.

“We need standard gauge as seen in the some parts of the North, and the Lagos to Ibadan. However, if that is not possible, let them fix the narrow gauge for us.

“The workers are not happy that they are coming to work everyday without doing anything.

“If there is train, people will rejoice, at least, transport-wise  because it is a cheaper and safer means of transportation,” Okeke said.

A businessman, Mr Chima Udechukwu, decried the non-functional state of the rail system at the Umuahia axis, saying it has compounded the transportation of goods in the region.

Udechukwu, who deals in food stuffs in Umuahia, expressed great displeasure that the railway has turned to dump site.

“I feel so sad whenever I pass through the railway axis in Umuahia because bush and hoodlums have  taken over the once bustling place.

“In the late 1990s, I was a regular passenger on train because I was using it to transport my goods, like rice and garri, from Ugboka in Enugu State down to Umuahia.

“Unfortunately, we can’t see it any longer and this problem has contributed to the hike in cost of goods, especially here in Umuahia, because the commercial vehicles charge higher,” he said.

The NAN correspondent, who visited the area reports that only patches of the tracks were seen while some crops have been planted along the axis.

Traders also display wares along the corridor while some other parts have been turned into refuse dumps. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sam Oditah/Rotimi Ijikanmi

Lagos assembly moves to regulate marriages
General News

Lagos assembly moves to regulate marriages

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By Adekunle Williams

The Lagos State House of Assembly has proposed a bill to streamline marriage documentation and ensure proper records for marriages and dissolutions across the state.

 

During Thursday’s plenary, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa disclosed this at the Second Reading of the Marriage and Dissolutions (Except Marriages under the Marriage Act) (Registration) Bill, 2025.

 

Obasa stressed the importance of continually making laws that protect both spouses and children in marriage arrangements.

 

He said the bill is titled: ‘A Bill for a Law to Provide for the Registration of Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage (Except Marriage under the Act) in Lagos State and for Other Connected Matters’.

 

Obasa then referred the bill to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC for further legislative scrutiny.

 

Explaining the bill earlier, Mr Oladipo Ajomale, Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, said many marriage-related legal issues stem from unclear documentation.

 

Ajomale (Oshodi-Isolo II) said: “If passed, this bill will simplify legal procedures related to marriage registration and dissolution in the state.”

 

He added that it would assist embassies and foreign missions in verifying marital status during visa applications.

 

Ajomale also noted the bill would ensure uniform marriage records across the IBILE division — Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.

 

Mr Abiodun Tobun (Epe I) described the bill as a progressive step aligned with modern standards of marriage regulation.

 

Tobun noted that the bill would clarify the rights of both husband and wife under customary marriage.

 

He said the law empowers partners to enter and exit marriages within the boundaries of legality.

 

However, he raised concerns about people who meddle in marriage proceedings and urged the inclusion of penalties for such interference.

 

Mr Solomon Bonu (Badagry I) emphasised the need for a proper database, aligning the state with global marriage registration standards.

 

Bonu said any dissolution of marriage must be sanctioned by a court to ensure legality and fairness.

 

He also suggested penalties for single mothers who exit marriages without legal recourse and husbands who shirk marital duties.

 

Mr Moshood Aro (Ikorodu II) remarked that the bill would give clearer legal structure to male responsibilities in marriage.

 

Aro also proposed that the law should permit distance marriages through established legal means, including cross-border unions.

 

Ms Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos Island I) highlighted the importance of child welfare in marital laws and urged provisions for full child support.

 

She said this was especially needed in broken marriages to ensure minors are properly cared for under the law. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
Nigerian Army trains personnel on doctrine devt.
Defence/Security

Nigerian Army trains personnel on doctrine devt.

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By Rita Iliya

The Nigerian Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) on Tuesday commenced a 5-day training workshop for its personnel on doctrine development to enhance their operational skills.

 

The Commander of TRADOC, Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, who delivered the keynote address, spoke on: “Enhancing Doctrine Development for Effective Training and Operations in a Joint Environment” in Minna.

 

Aligbe urged the personnel to understand doctrine and its key concepts because it defines who they are and guide their operations.

 

He explained that doctrine was an authoritative guidance that outlines how military forces operate in various situations.

 

He said that doctrine was built on experience, law, strategic needs and validated concepts, adding that doctrine was not a set of fixed rules but rather a guide to action.

 

According to him, the mission of the Nigerian Army is to win all land battles in defence of the country’s territorial integrity.

 

“It’s to protect national interest and accomplish other tasks in aid of civil authority, ” Aligbe said.

 

He said the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy emphasised the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well motivated and combat ready force.

 

He said that the current Nigerian Army doctrine was unveiled in September  2022, comprising 12 chapters.

 

The commander said the doctrine covered various aspects, including the manoeuvring approach to operations, mission command and the Nigerian Army approach to operations.

 

In his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Jamiu Jimoh, Chief of Doctrine and Combat Development, said doctrine was important in military operations.

 

Jimoh, represented by Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Babayo, Director, Lessons and Learning, said doctrine was essential because it provides a unified framework for how military forces operate.

 

He highlighted the role of doctrine in ensuring that different units can work together seamlessly in a joint environment.

 

“Doctrine plays a crucial role in ensuring that different units can seamlessly work together in a joint environment,” he said.

 

He noted that the workshop aligned with the COAS’s command philosophy, which emphasised doctrine and combat development.

 

Jimoh called on the participants to apply knowledge gained to enhance their operational effectiveness. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Joe Idika

School Feeding: Osun renews commitment to improve nutrition
General News

School Feeding: Osun renews commitment to improve nutrition

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By Ebere Agozie

Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun has restated his government’s commitment to improve the nutritional health status of school children in the state.

 

Adeleke made this known on Tuesday in Abuja at a Conference on Sustainable School Feeding and Child Nutrition organised by the Osun government in partnership with the AUDA-NEPAD.

 

The conference had as its theme “Sustainability of O-Meal for Improved Children Nutrition in Osun State Homegrown School Funding Programme.”

 

Represented by Prof. Abdulmaruf Adeleke, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget and Development, Adeleke said that the initiative stemmed from the need to nurture well-nourished children in preparation for a healthy and brighter future.

 

“Despite the growing food inflation, the programme has reached thousands of children over the years in spite of the glaring challenges plaguing its sustainability,’’ the governor said.

 

He therefore called for support from stakeholders and development partners to enhance the O-Meal School Feeding programme, which started in 2006.

 

“We want to build a smarter Osun pupil. The sustainability of O-meal provides an opportunity to invest in the lives of children, women, and others in the state.

 

“Every financial or technical contribution directly impacts children, allows for a more equitable society, and then plans towards drawing a clear roadmap for sustainability and development,’’ Adeleke said.

 

Representating AUDA-NEPAD, the CEO, Ms Agymi Abubakar, said that the Osun Home-Grown School Feeding Programme has over the years built a healthier, more productive workforce for Nigeria.

 

“O-meals is a direct, impactful translation of these national priorities.

 

“It is not only addressing immediate hunger but also enhancing school drive by its own citizens,’’ she said.

 

Abubakar advocated for strong partnerships with the private sector and sustained budgetary allocation in order to maximise the health benefits for the children.

 

“At AUDA-NEPAD, we are committed to supporting initiatives like the Osun Virtuous Cycle of Nutritional Improvement and economic upliftment,’’ she said.

 

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Federal Affairs, Mrs Nike Adeleke described the event as celebration of Homegrown success story.

 

She said that the renewed call was to strengthen, scale up and sustain the initiative in order to continue to shape the lives of thousands of children and families in the state.

 

“Since its inception in 2006, the O-meal programme has stood out as a beacon of consistency and innovation.

 

“This has made Osun the only sub-national in Nigeria that has maintained an uninterrupted and structured initiative with over 200,000 direct beneficiary, including schoolchildren,’’ she added.

 

The official said that the event offers opportunity for policy makers, technical experts, implementing partners, and donor organisations to deliberate on actionable frameworks for aligning the O’Meals programme with broader development goals.

 

“This includes the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on zero hunger, quality education, and good health and well-being.

 

“We are here to evaluate the sustainability prospects of the O’Meals programme; share best practices and innovations in school feeding.

 

“The event will explore improved strategies for enhancing child nutrition; and to welcome new partnerships for broader impact in Osun State and ensure that no child is left behind’’.

 

At the programme were representatives from the Japan International Cooeperative Agency (JAICA), the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), and the Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Tunisia and United Arab Emirate.

 

Others were the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Renewed Hope National Homegrown Feeding Programme, Mrs Yetunde Adeniji, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, technocrats and the private sector players. (NAN)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

New tax law’ll boost FDI, empower SMEs- IMPI
General News

New tax law’ll boost FDI, empower SMEs- IMPI

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) says the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 will enhance foreign investment and empower Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
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‎The group disclosed this in a policy statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, on Tuesday.
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‎Akinsiju said the law, effective January 2026,  introduced provisions that abolished double taxation and encouraged business expansion.
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‎“With the implementation of the Nigerian tax laws starting in January 2026, foreign direct investment inflows into the country are expected to be reinvigorated.
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‎“A major thrust in this regard is the adoption of the Minimum Effective Tax Rate (ETR) in the Nigerian Tax Act 2025 and other fiscal measures,” Akinsiju stated.
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‎He explained that the new law brought clarity, a lower effective tax rate, and eliminated dividend double taxation.
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‎“The normal company income tax rate on a large company in Nigeria is 30 per cent of the company’s profit,
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‎“With the adoption of the ETR, Nigerian companies that are members of a multinational group with an aggregate group turnover of 750 million euros and above or have an annual turnover of 50 billion Naira and above will now be subject to a minimum effective tax rate (ETR) of 15% of their net income.
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‎“The goal is to avoid the double taxation of dividends and unrealised gains or losses.
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‎“This reduction in tax rates and clarity around double taxation for multinational companies will undoubtedly influence the flow of global capital to Nigeria,” he said.
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‎Akinsiju noted that the Act would also improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business.
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‎“In addition, the tax exemption threshold for selling company shares in Nigerian companies has been increased to 150 million Naira (from 100 million Naira) in any 12 consecutive months, provided that the gains do not exceed 10 million Naira. This is another ease-of-doing-business policy.”
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‎He said the law would benefit local businesses, especially SMEs, through tax reliefs.
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‎“This results from the simplified compliance and reduction in tax burden on businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as enunciated in the NTA 2025.
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‎“This will foster a more favourable environment for business expansion and job creation.
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‎“Besides, lowering business taxes (e.g., Corporate Income Tax), as exemplified in the Act, can encourage investment and capital formation, potentially boosting economic growth.
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‎“The overall tax structure, including the progressivity of income taxes, can influence income distribution and aggregate demand, affecting economic growth.”
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‎Akinsiju said the Tinubu tax reforms could reshape Nigeria’s economy more than any other policy in a generation.
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‎“Our verdict is that Nigeria’s federal administration, led by President Tinubu, has gifted the country a body of legacy fiscal policies with the potential to transform the Nigerian economic space more than any policy deployment in a generation,” Akinsiju stated.
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‎He said the four tax acts passed met the fiscal needs for fast and inclusive growth.
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‎“By our reckoning, these tax reforms, as reflected in the substance of the four tax acts, alongside the removal of fuel subsidies and the harmonisation of foreign exchange transactions windows are crucial.

“They are at the heart of the coordinated effort to reset the Nigerian economy on a sustainable and inclusive growth path,” he added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Rwanda to enhance trade, aviation ties with Nigeria
Foreign

Rwanda to enhance trade, aviation ties with Nigeria

204 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

High Commissioner of Rwanda to Nigeria Christophe Bazivamo has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Nigeria in trade, aviation, and information and communication technology (ICT).

Bazivamo made the pledge on Friday in Abuja during the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day also known as Kwibohora themed “The Journey Continues”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the occasion of Kwibohora31, is a significant date that commemorates the end of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

Bazivamo said the collaboration between Rwanda and Nigeria was a catalyst for economic growth and development, adding that it would boost trade and bilateral relations.

“Rwanda is fully committed to collaborating closely with Nigeria to cultivate a thriving economic environment that benefits both our Nations. Trade serves as the heartbeat of any economy.

“By deepening trade connections, we can generate opportunities and enhance the well-being of our citizens,” Bazivamo said.

He also expressed pride in Rwanda’s partnership with Nigeria across various sectors, including trade, aviation, and digital innovation, with the aim of collectively shaping a prosperous Africa.

Bazivamo said that on June 27, Rwanda and Nigeria signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement to eliminate fiscal barriers and unlocking investment opportunities.

He emphasised the significance of the aviation industry in facilitating seamless connectivity between Rwanda and Nigeria and enhancing business activities and tourism.

He highlighted the potential of ICT in driving innovation and economic transformation, emphasising the benefits of investing in ICT partnerships for both nations.

The High Commissioner also underscored Rwanda’s commitment to regional stability, referencing a recent peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He pointed out that Rwanda’s progress in various areas, such as technology, gender equality, and economic growth was due to deliberate choices and a unified national purpose.

Bazivamo said that Rwanda’s Vision 2050 was a strategic framework focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.

He added that the vision aimed to elevate the country to an upper-middle-income status by 2035 and a high-income, knowledge-based economy by 2050.

He emphasised that this vision was not merely aspirational but rooted in a clear plan designed to benefit every Rwandan citizen.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Vietnamese administrative reform will enhance efficiency- Ambassador
Foreign

Vietnamese administrative reform will enhance efficiency- Ambassador

211 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Bui Hung, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Nigeria says his country’s administrative reforms will enhance efficiency within the government and reduce redundancy.

The ambassador stated this during an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

He highlighted the Vietnamese government’s strategy aimed at restructuring its administrative tiers, particularly by merging and reorganising administrative units at provincial and commune levels.

According to him, the initiative follows the adoption of Resolution No. 202/2025/QH15, which officially decreased the number of provincial-level administrative units.

He said that the reduction was from 63 to 34, comprising 28 provinces and 6 centrally-administered cities.

“The restructuring process is imperative for streamlining governance and ensuring that resources are utilised effectively,” Hung stated.

He explained that this plan was not only about reducing numbers but focused on creating more efficient administrative functionalities and improving public service delivery.

He added that as part of the reform effort, existing local government structures are being re-evaluated and refined.

“We aim to establish new commune-level Party Committees and appoint key leadership positions that align with the vision of efficient governance,” he noted.

According to the ambassador, this will enable local authorities to respond more effectively to community needs and enhance overall government responsiveness.

He also underscored the importance of these reforms in the context of economic growth and stability in developing countries.

“By eliminating unnecessary layers of bureaucracy, we can minimise delays and streamline processes that have previously hindered effective governance,” he explained.

The ambassador said that the government had taken deliberate measures to address the various impact of these changes on political stability and leadership continuity.

“Our plans have strong public backing, and we are committed to maintaining continuity of services through established local authority structures throughout the transition.

“We believe that these administrative reforms will yield positive outcomes, ultimately benefiting the Vietnamese people through enhanced governance and an improved public,” he said.

He said that the initiative would further foster collaboration with other developing nations facing similar challenges, particularly in Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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