Ismail Abdulaziz - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Thu, 2024

Saudi Arabia ramps up humanitarian efforts in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan

221 total views today

By Mufutau Ojo

As conflict, economic hardship and displacement continue to impact millions of people in Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan,

Saudi Arabia is intensifying its humanitarian efforts to deliver critical aid.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Saudi Arabia is delivering critical assistance through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief).

NAN reports that in Gaza, where humanitarian needs have reached critical levels due to ongoing war, KSrelief has launched one of its most extensive relief campaigns to date.

A statement issued by the Saudi Arabian embassy in Abuja said over 54 aid planes and eight ships were dispatched to the three locations.

It stated that the planes and ships were loaded with emergency food, medical supplies, shelter materials and other support items.

It added that the specific aid resources were 20 ambulances, 30 electricity generators and 10 water tanks, aimed at

providing immediate relief to those affected by the war in Gaza.

The embassy noted that KSrelief had distributed 39,200 ready-to-eat meals to help meet immediate nutritional needs for families facing severe food shortages.

It explained that the operation included specialised provision and support for displaced individuals, while offering comprehensive response to the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The embassy statement also said that Saudi Arabia had allocated over 80 million dollars to support long-term aid projects in Gaza, channeled through partnerships with international organisations such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees.

Others, it noted, were the World Food Programme, World Health Organisation and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees.

It also listed the Palestinian Red Crescent Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross as partners.

The statement added that in Lebanon where an economic collapse had placed immense pressure on innocent civilians, KSrelief had increased its humanitarian outreach to alleviate hardship.

It also said that KSrelief’s 20 aid planes arrived in Beirut, carrying essential food, medical and shelter supplies to provide relief to vulnerable communities.

The statement said Saudi Arabia’s aid to Lebanon, managed through KSrelief, also included targeted support for medical facilities.

It also said that KSrelief had sent 13 planes and 31 relief vessels, loaded with vital resources to Sudan.

It indicated that the aid, totalling over 118 million dollars, underscored Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting Sudanese families affected by instability.

It added that KSrelief had implemented programmes designed to address Sudan’s food security and health infrastructure needs.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Wed, 2024

General News

NGO commends Tinubu for release of detained minors

262 total views today

By Daniel Obaje

Mr Babatunde Kayode, Executive Director, Restore Hope for the Boy Child Initiative, has commended President Bola Tinubu for ordering the release of minors detained over the #EndBadGovernance protests.

Kayode stated this during a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, the President’s decision is a “victory for human rights” and a significant step towards justice.

Kayode described the action as a “swift intervention” by the President, adding that the release aligns with human rights standards which demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of Nigeria’s vulnerable youth.

“President Tinubu’s leadership sets a positive precedent for future actions, this will bring hope and relief to affected families and communities,’’ he said.

Kayode emphasised the importance of protecting minors’ rights and addressing the grievances that fueled the protests.

He reaffirmed the group`s commitment to advocate for justice for young boys and girls across the country, while applauding the President for his decisive action, compassion and empathy toward the affected families.

The Restore Hope for the Boy Child Initiative is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that focuses on the emotional, physical, and psychological well-being of male children.

The organisation’s mission is to highlight the challenges and pressures boys face and to advocate for their needs.(NAN) (www.newsnews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joseph Edeh

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Tue, 2024

General News

Buhari visits Borno, Jigawa over flooding, tanker explosion

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Buhari
Former President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday visited Borno and Jigawa to commiserate with the people of the two states.

The former president visited Borno over the devastating flooding in the state and Jigawa over the tanker explosion that claimed no fewer than 180 lives.

A statement issued in Abuja by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, said the two incidents happened when the former president was away from the country.

Buhari, according to the statement, lamented the damage, destruction and loss of lives that followed the floods in Borno, hinging this on climate change.

He commended the Federal and state governments for the joint efforts to restore normalcy after the floods.

Gov. Babagana Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn El-Kanemi thanked the former president for the visit.

Zulum said the state would never forget the president “who has done so much and so well for Nigeria and Borno state in particular.

“Without the 85 megawatts captive power plant you built here, Maiduguri would have continued in darkness.

” You gave us the North East Development Commission, a military university, a federal polytechnic, and a college of education and ensured the gradual return of peace after years of Boko Haram terrorism,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also reports that acting governor of Jigawa, Aminu Usman, led the former president to the Rasheed Shekoni University Teaching Hospital, where survivors of the explosion were being treated.

Buhari joined in prayers for the repose of the souls of those who died in the incident and the quick recovery of others still on admission in hospitals.

The acting governor thanked the former president for the visit and the cash donation to victims of the disaster. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Tue, 2024

General News

Mining cadastre’s revenue hits N8.1bn in October

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DG of Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office, Obadiah Nkom

By Nana Musa

The Director-General (D-G) of Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office (MCO), Obadiah Nkom, says the office has generated N8.1 billion revenue since January.

Nkom disclosed this while welcoming the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals led by its Chairman, Sen. Sampson Ekong, on an oversight visit to the NMCO headquarters on Monday in Abuja.

He described the revenue as a record-breakimg achievement, marking a substantial rise in earnings for the agency.

He said that the surge reflected the country’s strengthened commitment to diversifying its economy through the solid minerals sector and improving its mining sector’s regulatory framework.

The D-G attributed the increase in revenue to enhanced transparency, enforcement measures, and digitalisation that streamlined the licensing and revenue collection processes.

He said that the ongoing initiatives to enhance transparency, reduce processing times, and ensure equitable mining rights distribution, also contributed to the agency’s record earnings.

“Revenue generated by the office from inception to date is N36.048 billion.100 per cent of revenue generated is remitted to the Federal Government Treasury Single Account (TSA).

“Revenue generated from 2019 – October, 2024, N26.230 represents 75 per cent of revenue generated. Revenue generated from 2023 to October 2024 is N13.194 bIllion.

“This represents an increase of 63 per cent over N8.094 billion generated in the corresponding period from, 2021 to Sept. 2022,” Nkom said.

He briefed the committee on the Cadastre’s role in overseeing the issuance of mining licenses and permits, as well as its efforts to streamline operations within the industry.

He listed some of the challengesacn the cadastre to include inadequate funding and in adequate office space.

“This premises is housed by a part of the World Bank. We are renting the building, and we have been having many issues of paying the rent. These are the only two places that we have.

“The other one, of course, is rented and even this place is very congested by the time we now go around. The challenges are just numerous,” he said.

He said that the MCO worked with all the law enforcement agencies to ensure that cadastre was secure.

He, however, said that there were quite a number of litigations going on.

“ I want to inform this distinguished committee that we have had litigations since the inception of the mining cadastral, and we have had almost 100 per cent successes in our litigations,” he said.

Earlier, Ekong said that the visit was aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in the country mining sector.

He said that the visit was essentially to ensure that the NMCO fulfilled its obligations in alignment with federal guidelines, enhancing the mining sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy.

“Insights from this visit have been valuable, and we will examine the reform processes. Strengthening the sector will require effective collaboration and reform.

“We have taken note of the issues raised, and our focus is to add value and transparency to this sector,” the senator said.

He said that the committee would review the documentation provided by the NMCO and pledged continued support for the Cadastre.

He stressed the importance of synergy between regulatory bodies to fully maximise Nigeria’s mining potential.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the senate committee’s oversight visit was aimed at evaluating the cadastre’s adherence to regulatory standards.

It was also aimed at reviewing its operational efficiency, and identifying potential areas for improved resource management. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Mon, 2024

General News

Cost of living: UK don seeks sustainable strategies

228 total views today

By Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria needs sustainable strategies by the government and relevant stakeholders to proffer workable solutions to the rising cost of living.

Dr Alim Abubakre, Senior Lecturer at Sheffield Business School, London, made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

He said that the high cost of living is not peculiar to Nigeria alone, adding that it is a global challenge countries are facing.

“Countries like the UK have experienced sharp inflationary spikes, Sri Lanka faced severe food shortages, and Argentina continues to endure hyperinflation.

“As Nigeria embarks on economic reforms, including the reduction of subsidy payment and the flotation of the Naira, these challenges must be mitigated through innovative strategies across the short, medium, and long term,” Abubakre said.

He said that part of the short term strategic solution to the challenge was capacity building for leaders to navigate complex economic landscapes as well as innovative approaches to inflation, unemployment and poverty.

Abubakre said that the government’s efforts at providing palliatives for quick relief to challenges encountered from its new policies and programmes is in the right direction.

“One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through direct cash transfers. A similar initiative in Nigeria, targeted at the poorest households, will offer immediate relief and help prevent households from slipping into deeper poverty.”

He said that temporary tax reductions and reduction of import duties on staple foods and essential products would lead to lower retail prices and ease the burden on consumers.

“Another immediate intervention is providing subsidies for public transportation. With transport costs constituting a significant portion of household expenses, subsidies can ease commuting costs.

“Proper implementation and funding of the conversion and adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for public transport (should continue) with vigour.

“The government should make the kits for conversion cheaper by working directly with manufacturers or, better still, encouraging them to start producing locally.”

Abubakre also suggested putting price caps on essential medicines and healthcare services to ensure affordability in the short term.

He said the South Africa’s Single Exit Price policy for medicines provided an example of how government intervention can keep healthcare accessible for citizens.

He also said that expansion of the school feeding programme of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration and establishing community kitchens would support the most affected populations.

“This should be negotiated into Corporate Social Responsibility mandates for corporations. The government should minimise direct involvement in such activities to reduce the risk of corruption.”

On the medium term solutions, Abubakre said they include boosting of local production, encouraging small and medium enterprises, investment in public transport infrastructure, supporting renewable energy adoption and provision of affordable housing through public and private sector collaboration.

The long term strategies, Abubakre said include strong commitment to diversification of the economy, investment in education and skill development, promoting industrialisation and advancing agricultural technology.(NAN)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Sun, 2024

General News

NIS unveils comprehensive reform agenda

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has inaugurated a sweeping reform agenda aimed at enhancing national security and migration management.

The move followed a communiqué signed by the NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, at the Service’s annual conference in Jos, Plateau on Saturday, was issued by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO) Mr Kenneth Udo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference held from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2 was tagged “Enhancing Border security and Migration Management on a globalised world: challenges and opportunities for Nigeria.”

She said that the conference brought together 448 participants, including top government officials, diplomats, and stakeholders.

Nandap said the event aimed to assess the service’s preparedness, identify emerging challenges, and develop sustainable strategies for repositioning the NIS.

“NIS will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders.

“Cutting-edge technology will be used to improve border security and migration management.

“A strategic plan will be developed to align with the Federal Government’s initiatives on Foreign Direct Investments and Tourism.

“Divisional Immigration Offices will be restructured to enhance intelligence gathering and community engagement.

“Further process re-engineering will promote professionalism, patriotism, and discipline, “she said.

She also said that training and capacity building would be prioritised to enhance knowledge acquisition and professionalism.

According to her, a robust health insurance policy and pension package will be implemented for retired officers.

The NIS boss expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for their support.

The Governor of Plateau State, Mr Caleb Mutfwang, was also acknowledged for his hospitality and assistance in making the conference a success.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Sat, 2024

Foreign

Chinese media experts urge mutual cooperation in Sino-African exchange

442 total views today

By Halima Sheji

A Chinese teacher, Prof. Zhang Genfu, has underscored the need for mutual cooperation through China-Africa media exchanges to advance the Sino-African modernisation.

Zhang, a Deputy-Director of the Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) Affairs Committee, made the call during the inaugural ceremony of the Seminar for Omni-media journalists from English-speaking African countries in Jinhua city, China.

He said that the 10 partnership actions announced by President Xi Jinping at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing elevated Africa-China relations to new heights.

Zhang said, “China has always been a country of action and always done what it says. We believe that in the foreseeable future, China-Africa relations will deepen and cooperation in economy, trade, culture and other fields will be closer.

“I sincerely hope that through this Seminar, we can strengthen exchanges with you, enhance the understanding of Chinese and African media friends in the language and culture.

“Also, strengthen news and cultural exchanges, jointly promote the high-quality development of media undertakings of the two sides, inject new connotation into China-Africa friendship and write a new chapter.

“Let us move towards each other with mutual support and empowerment, jointly advancing the modernisation of China and Africa, and together achieving a bright future.”

He said that the visit of the participants councides with the autumn season when the eyes of the world focused on China-Africa.

“2024 FOCAC Summit held in Beijing in September and the Heads of State, Heads of Government, Heads of Delegation of China and 53 African countries, and the Chairpersons of the African Union (AU) Commissions met in Beijing to draw new blueprint for development of Africa-China relations.

“Now we welcome media friends from 11 countries, including Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Zambia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Benin and Nigeria. This is the epitome of China-Africa comprehensive cooperation and friendship,” he added.

He described ZJNU as an institution with disciplines such as Mathematics, Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science, Environment/Ecology, Computer Science, Zoology, Animal and Plant Sciences, and General Social Sciences in the top 1 per cent of Employees State Insurance (ESI) globally.

He added that the university had cultivated not less than 400,000 talents of all types for the society since its founding 68 years ago, and established cooperation and exchange relations with 280 institutions of higher learning in over 60 countries and regions.

Chen Yan, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Jinhua Municipal City, urged the journalists to explore the media exchange platform to garner relevant knowledge towards deepening China-African relations.

Chen said, “This year, numerous foreign journalists visited Jinhua. They explored the local markets, industries, countryside, cultural sites and conducted comprehensive reporting on the city.

“Notably, Brazil’s flagship Media Group and the ‘Review’ press crew filmed the ‘Watch China Together’ programme in Jinhua. These related reports were then featured as a series of special topics in Brazil, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.

“In May this year, 28 journalists from 27 African countries came to Jinhua and published 72 articles, introducing the colorful Jinhua to the world.

“In July, we held a special ‘overseas universities’ media workshop for Young media professionals from the “Belt and Road” countries, attended by 69 media professionals from 18 countries, all of which are vivid manifestations of the international communication of the Belt and Road Golden Hub.”

Meanwhile, Mr Lassana Tunkara, Deputy General-Manager of QTV/QRadio in The Gambia, spoke on behalf of the journalists saying the seminar titled: “Journalism organisation and news media for Belt and Road Initiative countries”, saying it would enable them advance international best practices in media operations.

Tunkara said, “This seminar presents an extraordinary opportunity to broaden our understanding of global media landscape, particularly within the context of Chinese media experience and our primary goal should be to explore how media can act as catalyst for international collaboration and development.

“We are enthusiastic about diving into the dynamics of vibrant Chinese media landscape with social and new media transforming the way we share and consume information across the world.

“Understanding this trend is essential for shaping media in Africa, especially as we navigate the fast-evolving digital environment. We look forward to learning about business management and how sustainable models can empower media organisations to thrive in competitive markets.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Jinhua is a prefecture-level city in central Zhejiang Province in eastern China that has jurisdiction over nine counties cities and districts with an area of 11,000 square kilometers and a permanent population of 7.16 million people. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Sat, 2024

Foreign

Chinese editor tasks journalists on media industry

404 total views today

By Halima Sheji

Xu Xiaoen, the President of Jinhua branch of Zhenjian Daily Press Group, in China, on Saturday advised African journalists to dedicate themselves to improving the media industry in the continent.

He spoke in Jinhua on the 3rd day of the seminar for omni-media journalists from English-speaking African countries at the Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua city in China.

Xu delivered a comprehensive lecture on management and operations in the media industry.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training aimed to empower newsmen with essential skills for navigating the ever-evolving media landscape.

Participants from 10 English-speaking African countries, including Nigeria, shared insights on how to effectively set an agenda that resonates with readers, particularly within larger societies.

The focus was on embracing a multi-faceted approach to journalism to achieve maximum impact and reach the widest audience possible.

In addition to agenda-setting, the seminar emphasised the importance of ethical reporting and transparency in the media.

Participants were also encouraged to uphold the highest standards of integrity while utilising innovative storytelling techniques.

“By incorporating diverse voices and perspectives, journalists can create more inclusive narratives that reflect the realities of their communities and foster a sense of belonging among audiences,” Xu said.

NAN reports that the seminar was not just an opportunity for learning, but also for networking and collaboration among journalists across the continent.

Those in attendance were able to form valuable connections, shared experiences and discussed ways to collectively tackle challenges within the industry.

By harnessing their shared knowledge and resources, the journalists have the opportunity to significantly enhance the quality of media output in their respective countries. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Ismail Abdulaziz
Oct, Thu, 2024

Economy/Business

FG considers PPPs to fund key science, technology projects

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Okeoghene Akubuike

The Federal Government says it is considering private sector funding through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) for key projects in the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.

This is contained in a statement issued by Ifeanyi Nwoko, the Acting Head, Media and Publicity, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in Abuja on Thursday.

Nwoko said Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, the Director-General (D-G) of ICRC, said this when he paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji.

Nwoko said the meeting, initiated by the ICRC D-G, aimed to foster partnership between the two government bodies to leverage PPPs for projects that enhance the nation’s economic and technological growth.

Ewalefoh said that science and technology if properly deployed, could serve as a key driver of the economic growth and progress of Nigeria.

“Many countries around the world have used science and technology to drive the economic growth and prosperity of their country and people.

“We are here to brainstorm with you and find ways by which we can deepen the usage of science and technology for the advancement of our country.

“Over the last two decades, countries and businesses have harnessed technology and innovation for upscaling their economy and improving the efficiency in their service delivery.

“That is where we want our country to go, and we believe that is the vision you are championing under the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

“It is, therefore, my aspiration that your ministry will partner with the ICRC to see areas where we can champion private sector funding through PPP to develop some of the projects specific to the ministry,” he said.

The D-G informed the minister that there was already a collaboration with an agency under its purview but stressed that there were other key areas where PPP could be harnessed to deliver laudable projects in the ministry.

He said that the commission had streamlined its processes to accelerate PPP project delivery as well as deliver important services to the Nigerian people.

Ewalefoh pointed out that some key private sector operators had already verbalised their desire to work with the ministry in a PPP arrangement.

Responding, Nnaji expressed his excitement at the appointment of the D-G, saying that Ewalefoh’s wealth of experience would revolutionise the PPP sphere in Nigeria.

“Indeed, a square peg has been placed in a square hole,” he said

The minister emphasised that the ministry served as a key enabler of economic growth and has had the support of Tinubu which was demonstrated through major approvals granted the ministry.

He said that the president had approved methanol production, saying that although the implementation process was still being finalised, foreign direct investments for the project had reached more than 1.5 billion dollars.

“We want to go into beneficiation of raw materials and we have the Presidential Executive Order No 5 to back it, such that we don’t have to export our raw materials, but process it to a level before exporting.

“We are looking at doing green hydrogen too,” he said.

Nnaji noted that Nigeria could make a lot more from cassava export than it was currently making if the raw cassava was processed before export.

“We believe that with ICRC, we will partner in doing things right and enabling us to forge a better outlook for most of these projects.

“In methanol, we are going to involve ICRC more closely to see the way forward and how it can benefit the country better.

“I am happy that you are here; coming here shows that you know what you are doing. You are taking services to those that need it,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Ismail Abdulaziz
Oct, Thu, 2024

Foreign

Israel-Palestine conflict: Saudi Arabia hosts Global Alliance meeting

267 total views today

By Mufutau Ojo

Saudi Arabia Minister of Foreign Affairs, Faisal bin Farhan, has inaugurated the first meeting of the Global Alliance on implementation of a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The coalition, announced last month in partnership with international allies, was to mobilise global support for a viable and sustainable two-state resolution of the conflict.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inauguration of the meeting on Wednesday in Riyadh, underscores Saudi Arabia leadership in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

Opening the meeting, the foreign minister welcomed Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and other international delegations dedicated to the peace-building efforts.

He expressed concern at the escalating violence in Palestine and Lebanon, stressing the urgent need for the international community’s intervention to halt actions that threaten regional stability.

The minister called for an immediate ceasefire while advocating the release of hostages and detainees as well as the establishment of accountability mechanisms to address ongoing violations.

The minister reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for UNRWA’s crucial role in delivering humanitarian aid amid the ongoing challenges in Palestinian territories.

He urged the global community to bolster efforts toward preserving the two-state solution as the foundation for long-term peace in the region.

The minister outlined the commitment of Saudi Arabia and its regional partners to practical and time-bound steps to resolve the conflict.

He emphasised the necessity of establishing an independent Palestinian state and ending the occupation.

The minister reiterated his country’s condemnation of actions undermining Palestinian and Lebanese security.

NAN reports that as a follow-up to the developments, Saudi Arabia announced its intention to convene a joint Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh on Nov. 11.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz