NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
TEXEM congratulates Sanni on FrieslandCampina WAMCO appointment
General News

TEXEM congratulates Sanni on FrieslandCampina WAMCO appointment

194 total views today

By Kayode Adebiyi

TEXEM, UK, a global thought leader in executive development, has congratulated Yinka Sanni on his appointment as chairman of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria, the nation’s foremost dairy company.

 

This is contained in a statement by Dr Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM, UK, on Monday in Abuja.

 

Abubakre described the appointment as a testament to his exceptional leadership pedigree, dedication to impact and commitment to legacy building.

 

He said that with a distinguished career spanning decades in financial services, including key leadership roles at Stanbic IBTC and the Standard Bank Group, Sanni has consistently exemplified the highest standards of strategic foresight, operational excellence, resilience, and purposeful leadership.

 

“Yinka Sanni is a lodestar of purpose-driven leadership—an exemplar of how resilience, strategic learning, and an unwavering focus on impact can transform institutions, inspire communities, and shape enduring legacies,” Abubakre said.

 

He added that as WAMCO navigates a rapidly evolving economic and social landscape, Sanni’s deep commitment to learning, attention to detail, and sacrificial service positions him to steer the organisation towards greater innovation, sustainability, and national relevance.

 

The TEXEM founder commended Sanni not only for his appointment but for his unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive growth, mentoring emerging leaders, and driving long-term value for all stakeholders.

 

“We encourage him to continue making a positive difference and shaping futures—just as he always has.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Tinubu’s energy sector reforms driving economic growth- Abdullahi
General News

Tinubu’s energy sector reforms driving economic growth- Abdullahi

190 total views today

By Emmanuel Mogbede

Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director- General, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), says President Bola Tinubu-led administration is driving sustainable development and economic growth through advancements in the energy sector.

 

Abdullahi said this at a dinner in Abuja organised by some Nigerians within and outside the country to celebrate the mid-term of the Tinubu-led government.

 

The event with the theme: “Two Years of Impact: Honouring Mr President and the Voices of Renewed Hope”, was attended by APC chieftains, government appointees and State Governments representatives among others.

 

The ECN DG, while speaking on the administration’s solarisation initiatives, said that the Tinubu was not relenting on his oars to make the country better for all.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that solarisation refers to the process of exposing something to sunlight or solar energy, which is in line with the energy transition of the administration.

 

He highlighted the administration’s strides in driving sustainable development and economic growth through its solarisation initiative.

 

Abdullahi explained that under the solarisation initiative, all tertiary institutions, universities and primary healthcare centres across the country would be solarised.

 

He said the commission was already in talks with one of the largest solar panel production companies in the world to set up a solar panel factory in Nigeria to start production.

 

“The solarisation project is going to be across every state of the federation, not just Abuja alone, it is going to be done in all universities and tertiary institutions.

 

“This hasn’t been in the news because we don’t like speaking too much, we like being in action,” the DG said.

 

 

He particularly applauded Tinubu’s solarisation drive, adding that Nigeria was taking the right place in the global stage.

 

He also commended the presidency and the Voices of Renewed Hope for their visionary leadership and dedication to meaningful change across the country.

 

‘’It has been a very, very wonderful two years and I am very grateful being the DG and Chief Executive of the Energy Commission of Nigeria.

 

“There had been so many transformations, particularly in the energy sector that I am,” he said.

 

The DG called on Nigerians to continue supporting the Tinubu-led administration and the 2027 re-election bid of the president, saying one good turn deserves another.

 

He maintained that the administration had the roadmap to set Nigeria on a progressive pathway.

 

He said the commission had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Energy Engineering Corporation Ltd (CEEC) and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) to boost renewable energy infrastructure.

 

He said the agreement was a bold step aimed at addressing Nigeria’s long-standing energy challenges through strategic partnerships and innovation.

 

He explained that the MoU provided a framework for supporting state-level energy planning, expanding energy resource utilisation through solar, wind, and hydroelectric solutions, and developing green energy infrastructure.

 

Abdullahi said the partnership would also establish the Nigeria-China Renewable Energy Research Centre to foster technological innovation and human capacity development in renewable energy.

 

He added that the collaboration aligned with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which had already initiated transformative reforms in the power sector.

 

This, he added, included the constitutional amendment and the signing of the Nigerian Electricity Act 2023.

 

 

Mr Ade Omole, Chief host of the dinner and a former Director of the APC Diaspora Campaign Directorate, said that the event was about truth-telling and not mere praise singing.

 

Omole, also the  Convener of Renewed Hope Global said: “The Tinubu administration is not just counting years, but weighing its impact’’.

 

According to him, progress has not only emerged but endured under  Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration.

 

Dr Aliyu Modibo, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on General Duties, who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima, lauded Tinubu’s unparalleled commitment to ensuring a Nigeria where all interests were protected.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

NTI to create study centres in 774 LGAs- Director
Education

NTI to create study centres in 774 LGAs- Director

265 total views today

By Moses Kolo

The National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) plans to establish study centres in all the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, according to its Director and Chief Executive, Prof. Sadiya Sani-Daura.

Sani-Daura disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna in a special interview to mark the two years anniversary of President Bola Tinubu.

The director said that these study centres would be fully equipped and adequately staffed so that they can function effectively.

“This move is part of our modest efforts to make NTI easily accessible by all Nigerians no matter their places of domicile.

“Already, we have state-of-the-art zonal and state centres and we will leverage on this feat to make the planned LGA centres succeed.”

According to Sani-Daura, the institute is fully committed to ensuring that all teachers in the country fully upgrade their capacities.

She added: ”Everybody can update and improve his or her capacity. We are out to ensure that all Nigerian teachers achieve this in no distant time.”

This, she said, was extremely imperative so that teachers in Nigeria would not lag behind, saying “this is to make them to be in tune with extant global trends in teaching and learning.

“The world has moved on, leveraging on emerging technologies, new teaching and learning methods, hence teachers in Nigeria must urgently catch up with the world.”

Meanwhile, Sani-Daura has vowed to make NTI the truly world-class teacher training institution that it ought to be in line with its statutory mandates.

To this effect, the director disclosed that it has since commenced the award of Degrees, Post-Graduate Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Education.

According to her, this is being done in affiliation with some Universities like ABU Zaria, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, University of Maiduguri and the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, among others.

“Education is very critical to providing plausible solutions to practically all the seemingly formidable problems plaguing Nigeria.

“Yes, with proper attention given to the education sector at all levels, we will get solutions to all our problems including crimes and criminality.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

NTI committed to achieving Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda- Director
Education

NTI committed to achieving Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda- Director

257 total views today

By Moses Kolo

Prof. Sadiya Sani-Daura, Director and Chief Executive of the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), Kaduna, says it is fully committed to facilitating the achievement of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Sani-Daura disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna as part of the celebration of Tinubu’s two years in office.

According to her, NTI will be diligently playing the critical role expected of it to fully realise the president’s all-important agenda.

She said: “We have a lot to do in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda and we will never waiver in doing so.

“Instructively, we are now creating the direly needed conducive environment to achieve this noble agenda of Tinubu.”

Sani-Daura further extolled the Federal Government’s commitment to taking Nigeria’s education sector to the next level.

She said that the Federal Ministry of Education was critical to the myriad of successes the institute had achieved.

“Hopefully, NTI will soon bounce back and fully restore its enviable lost past glory.

“We are digitising all our activities so as to be in tune with the current global trends and this is working just as it is bolstering our operations.”

The director, therefore, commended the two Ministers of Education for their uncommon commitment and patriotism, describing them as the key motivators and benefactors of NTI.

Sani-Daura disclosed that the premier institute was partnering with various local and international agencies like the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

She listed some of NTI’s global collaborators to include JICA and UNICEF, among numerous others.

The director also stated that the institute was robustly partnering with the various state governments in the country.

“We will never relent in the diligent discharge of our mandate, and will continue to train and retrain teachers, with a view to continuously upgrading their capacities,”  she said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m
Foreign

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

241 total views today

By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has advised pilgrims to stay in their tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to soaring daytime temperatures during the pilgrimage.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, gave the advice while speaking to newsmen in Makkah on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Saudi Arabia, through its National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), had on Sunday issued heatwave warnings for Hajj 2025.

The centre urged pilgrims to take precautions amid soaring daytime temperatures between 40°C and 47°C.

The NCM forecasted challenging weather, including high temperatures, potential thunderstorms, and reduced visibility.

Saleh said NAHCON had a stakeholders’ meeting with all the Nigeria Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Boards.

He said the boards were mandated to tell their pilgrims that no pilgrim would be allowed out of their  tents in Mina and Arafat due to soaring temperature.

“Yesterday we called all the stakeholders. We met with them and mandated them to announce and tell their people that nobody is allowed to be out of the tent from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.

“It is not advised to go out because the temperature is not normal this year. We also advised them to continue drinking water.

“If it is necessary to be outside, let them go with water in hand. Let them take their umbrellas and use them, because the temperature is not normal.

The NAHCON chairman urged the media to help the commission to disseminate the information to the pilgrims to adhere to the heatwave warnings.

“So, media, please you are our eyes, you are our voice to the public. Help us tell our people to adhere to this instruction.”

NAN reports that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims are expected for the 2025 Hajj. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death
General News

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death

208 total views today

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the victims of the Niger flood and the Kano athletes that died in an auto accident.

 

This followed the death of more than one hundred persons in flash floods that destroyed homes and displaced thousands of residents last week in Niger.

 

The death was also recorded of 22 young athletes, coaches, and officials in a ghastly auto crash in Kano state after the Ogun games in Abeokuta.

 

Buhari, in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, sympathised with the bereaved families, governments and the people of Niger and Kano states over the incident.

 

The former president said that the tragic incidents, happening in a quick sequence had left him shocked and devastated as it did many people in different parts of the world.

 

“I am deeply pained  by the loss of lives due to the floods in Niger state and the road accident in Kano state.

 

‘’The deaths are painful and devastating. Condolences to the families and friends of all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Niger woos Dangote on Bida crude oil exploration
General News

Niger woos Dangote on Bida crude oil exploration

243 total views today

By Rita Iliya

Minna, June 1, 2025(NAN) Gov. Umar Bago of Niger has called for partnership with the Dangote Group in the exploration and development of the discovered oil blocks in Niger State’s Bida Basin.

 

Bago said that the group would significantly contribute to the exploration project with its proven expertise in the energy sector in the country.

 

The governor said this while addressing industry leaders at the Dangote Special Day event at the Niger National Trade Fair in Minna on Saturday.

 

Bago said that the state was “open for business” regarding Bida Basin oil development, calling for private sector investment and expertise in the state’s hydrocarbon exploration.

 

The governor, represented by Hamza Sarki, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, acknowledged Dangote Group’s proven capacity in executing large-scale industrial projects.

 

He cited the successful delivery of the world’s largest single-train refinery in Nigeria as evidence of its technical expertise and operational excellence.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dangote Group is the major sponsor of the 2025 Niger State National Trade Fair.

 

The Governor described the Bida Basin oil discovery as Niger State’s ticket to economic prosperity, and win-win for partnership with relevant players in the oil sector.

 

A 2023 geological survey report identified 17 commercially viable oil blocks in Niger, with estimated hydrocarbon reserves projected to sustain production for approximately 70 years.

 

The Bida Basin, stretching across parts of Niger and Kwara States, has been identified as a promising sedimentary basin with hydrocarbon potential.

 

Representative of the Dangote Group, Mr Hashem Ahmed, said the company was investing massively in Niger State, adding that it was ready to partner the state to develop its potential.

 

“The Dangote Rice Mill in Wushishi when completed will enhance local rice production and drastically reduce post-harvest losses. We are also working closely with the Governor’s Office on the Niger Food Initiative—a game-changing agricultural programme.

 

“We have committed to serving as a guaranteed off taker for 1 million metric tons of paddy rice, creating a stable market and encouraging further private investment.”

 

Ahmed commended the proactive measures taken by the Bago administration to foster a business-friendly environment and stimulate private sector engagement in economic growth.

 

He said that the government’s strategic policies, such as the planned establishment of a Free Trade Zone, demonstrate a clear commitment to attracting investment, enhancing trade, and positioning Niger as a hub for industrial and agricultural development.

 

“For Dangote Group and the broader Organized Private Sector, these initiatives represent a significant and encouraging step forward.

 

‘’The Free Trade Zone provides a competitive advantage by streamlining business operations, reducing bottlenecks, and creating a conducive ecosystem for large-scale investments,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

China to establish first African history, culture museum
Foreign

China to establish first African history, culture museum

286 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The China-Africa Institute at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences has announced plans to establish the first museum dedicated to African history and culture in China, signaling a significant step in fostering cultural exchange between the two regions.

 

Mr Ye Hailin, Director of the China-Africa Institute, revealed these plans during an ongoing Workshop themed ‘China-Africa Cooperation in the New Era: Responsibilities of Think Tanks and Media’, on Saturday in Beijing.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China(IDCPC).

 

According to him, the proposed museum aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of African heritage, showcasing artifacts, artworks, and historical narratives that highlight the continent’s diverse cultures and traditions.

 

“We believe that the museum will serve not only as an educational resource but also as a platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration between Chinese and African scholars, artists, and communities.

 

“The museum is expected to attract both local and international visitors, providing a unique perspective on African history that is often overlooked in traditional narratives,” he said.

 

Ye also highlighted that China was in the process of establishing five China-Africa research centres, announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of the Beijing-Southeast Asia 2024 partnership actions.

 

“One of these centres will be based in South Africa, where we have conducted extensive consultations with the executive academy there,” he added, stating that an agreement for cooperation had already been signed.

 

“The establishment of the first China-Africa research centre is expected to be officially inaugurated before the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa later this year.

 

“We are currently in the legal negotiation phase, and we are optimistic about launching this center as a hub for collaborative research and exchange,” Ye said.

 

According to him, the initiative also focuses on enhancing media relations, with active exchange programmes planned for African media and journalists, aimed at promoting bilateral understanding and cooperation.

 

He emphasised that these efforts reflected China’s commitment to deepening its partnership with African nations through cultural diplomacy and academic collaboration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t
Foreign

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t

275 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana has lauded  China for its commitment to Africa’s development.

 

Keorapetse said this on Friday at the opening of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China.

 

The event is being hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s government of Gansu Province in China.

 

The speaker, representing delegates from Africa highlighted China’s role as a key partner in Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

 

He cited infrastructural projects, technology transfer, and educational exchanges as pillars of cooperation between China and Africa.

 

“China’s support has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

 

“From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress under the principles of the Global Civilisation Initiative,” he said.

 

Keorapetse praised President Xi Jinping’s three global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.

 

According to the Botswana speaker, the initiatives remain crucial even as they serve as resources for generating new opportunities for the Global South.

 

He highlighted China’s role in Botswana’s developmental efforts since it’s  independence in 1966.

 

Keorapetse also highlighted China’s instrumental role in enhancing the his country’s infrastructural development and other benefits through the nations’ bilateral cooperation.

 

“When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometers of tarred roads. China aided in rehabilitating our railway system, transforming 522 kilometers of track with a $99 million interest-free loan.

 

“Beyond infrastructure advancements, there is a flourishing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana in collaboration with Shanghai Normal University.

 

“These institutes play a pivotal role in promoting the Chinese language and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges,” he said.

 

Keorapetse, however, acknowledged the challenges facing multilateralism, including armed conflicts, global health crises, climate change, and the rise of nationalism, which have hindered international cooperation.

 

“It is for this reason that we look to China to partnering with us in the Global South to mitigate the adverse effects of these global challenges.

 

“We also reiterate our commitment to continuous collaboration with China,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Bashir Rabe Mani

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

259 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Shen Sha, has reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Africa and China.

 

Shen gave the assurance at the ongoing African Think Tank and Media Workshop organised by the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in Beijing.

 

According to him, the historical connection between China and Africa spans more than eight decades.

 

”China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the eight century when Chinese explorers embarked on historic voyages to the continent, laying the groundwork for enduring cultural and trade relationships.”

 

Shen noted that China values unity and collaboration with African nations as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

 

He added that the country remained steadfast in its support for Africa’s development aspirations.

 

”We embrace the principles of a strong and harmonious East Africa and are dedicated to aligning Chinese interests with those of the African people.

 

”China’s growth and the international stature may evolve, but our commitment to fostering partnerships with Africa remains resolute,” he said.

 

The counselor also said that China stands ready to champion African countries’ rights on the global stage, advocating for fair and inclusive international policies that safeguard the interests of developing nations.

 

He further pledged China continued backing for Africa’s self-reliant initiatives, supporting peace-building efforts, and facilitating inclusive governance practices tailored to African contexts.

 

”We envision a future where China and Africa advance hand in hand, sharing developmental opportunities and mutual prosperity.

 

”China’s enduring support for Africa’s advancement is unwavering, and we stand ready to provide assistance within our means,” he said.

 

Shen also highlighted the exponential growth in trade and investment between China and Africa, underscoring China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year.

 

”Notably, Chinese investments have spurred economic growth and jobs creation across Africa, underlining President Xi Jinping’s personal commitment to nurturing China-Africa relations.

 

”China’s promise of continued engagement extends to expanding investment cooperation, enhancing agricultural and manufacturing partnerships, and empowering African nations to harness their resources for sustainable development,” he said.

 

Ms Lindiwe Zulu, Head of the African delegation and member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), expressed appreciation to China for its steadfast support of Africa’s progress.

 

Zulu emphasised the importance of equitable partnerships and African unity as the keys to prosperity.

 

She expressed optimism that China would uphold Africa as an equal and esteemed partner, paving the way for shared success and enduring friendship.

 

NAN reports that the delegation comprises 20 Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Deborah Coker

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